Category Archives: Uncategorized

First Kiss Friday with Karysa Faire

21 Friday Feb 2020

Posted by in 2020, First Kiss Friday, Uncategorized

≈ 5 Comments

Tags

, , ,

Hello, my lovelies, and welcome to another First Kiss Friday. Today it’s my pleasure to welcome my dear friend Karysa Faire to my blog. Karysa is debuting her first release Take Two. I’m so excited to share an excerpt with you. Happy reading and enjoy!

Excerpt:

Roger joined her, handing her a cup of coffee while he noisily sipped on his own. He sat down on the plush chair across from her, toeing off his shoes in turn.

Her eyes closed against the steam. The first sip was almost too hot as it went down her throat, warming her insides.

“Mmmm. I needed that. Thank you.” She opened her eyes and was surprised to see him staring at her chest. She quickly looked down to see if she’d become unbuttoned and said a little prayer of thanks that her bra wasn’t popping out of her blouse. “Uh, so—” Rachel cleared her throat.

Roger’s eyes flew up. “I’m sorry. What were you saying?” He gave her a crooked grin and didn’t look sorry at all for being caught.

“Thank you for the coffee.” Rachel smiled back and took another sip. She felt the caffeine begin to do its magic. “It’s better than I have at home.” She drank the rest quickly, enjoying the feeling.

“Refill, my lady?” Roger got up and refilled her cup as she held it. This time, he sat down beside Rachel. The couch dipped next to her and she almost fumbled her hold on the cup. A flutter went through her at the heat of his body next to hers. They’d been this close in the cab, but he’d still been dressed as Rohbert. Now, he was all Roger.

But he hadn’t kissed her before when she’d opened the door to the possibility. What the hell were you thinking, Rachel?

Not knowing what else to do, Rachel brought the coffee to her lips, took a gulp, then put it down on the table. She looked straight ahead, not at the man, her fantasy, sitting next to her.

She felt his hand lightly caress her shoulder and arm. He shifted and was even closer to her, overwhelming her senses. Rachel felt her hair get pushed back, tucked behind her ear, those magic fingers of his leaving hot trails on her skin.

“I’m uh…” She cleared her throat then tried to speak again. Her words were lost as his other hand reached for hers.

“You really don’t need to go home tonight,” he said, barely above a whisper.

She stood and faced him, needing to put at least an inch of distance between them so she could talk without being distracted. With him sitting on the couch and with her shoes off, she was only a few inches taller. She could almost look directly into those famous green eyes of his, the eyes that didn’t waver as they darkened. “I’m, I’m very confused,” Rachel stammered.

“Allow me to make it clear.” Roger locked his hands around both her wrists and pulled her toward him. Thrown off balance, she fell into his lap. His arm slipped over her hip and he angled her body to his chest.

She looked Roger Conrad in the eyes, his lashes darker so close up. She swallowed, not daring to follow this wish through.

“Hi there,” he said, moving toward her. He was so close his nose touched the side of hers.

“Hi,” she finally managed back. His breath was laced with fresh coffee and the remaining hint of alcohol, a smell she vaguely thought shouldn’t be arousing. But it was, he was, and the smell went straight to her core, imprinting itself in her memory forever.

What the hell. I’ll pretend I’m Isabella and he’s Rohbert. Rachel took the plunge and closed the space between them, giving him small, questing kisses. She ran the tip of her tongue over his lips, asking for entry to his mouth. He moaned and embraced her, circling her body with his long arms.

In a quick movement, Roger shifted their positions, Rachel’s back now on the couch. He pressed his lips urgently against hers, all tentativeness gone. She kissed him back with a need that stunned her.

Rachel heard herself whimper as Roger pulled her body closer to his. He ran his other hand over her clothes, down her waist and to her thigh, teasing the hem of her skirt upwards. His smell was intoxicating. Rachel wrapped her arms around his neck and hooked her leg over the back of his knee. As she grabbed his hair, he pulled back for a breath. “Didn’t you say you had to leave?” he teased.

“That wasn’t me talking.” She grinned and pulled him back down to her.

Take Two
By Karysa Faire
$3.99 or #FREE in Kindle Unlimited

Is their love real or fiction?

 Rachel is a teacher and a single mom who’s picked up the pieces of her life after a horrible marriage. She’d thought her ex-husband was the man of her dreams. He wasn’t. She’s moved on and written a historical romance novel, Swashbuckler, that’s been picked up by Hollywood.

Rodger is an actor who doesn’t trust women. He’s made bad choices in his past that have come to haunt him in the present, especially the choice that came packaged with blond hair, large tits, and a marriage that was doomed from the start. Rodger thought they were in love—turns out his wife was a social-climber more interested in his status than his heart. He doubts there is a woman alive who can love him for who he is, and not for his fame or for the fantasy he presents to the world.

Both Rachel and Rodger have been burned by love, trusting a reality that turned out only to be fantasy. Will their fear succeed at keeping them apart? Or will they break through the barriers and allow themselves to love once again? After all, sometimes reality is much sweeter than fantasy.

Buy Link or Free in Kindle Unlimited: Amazon US

About the Author:

Karysa Faire is a fiction writer and high school science teacher. Her best days are when something unexpected and new happens – whether that be in the classroom or during vacations when she goes on extended road trips to haunted ghost towns. Karysa writes a variety of romance genres including contemporary, historical, erotica, horror, and paranormal. She’s also been known to write a mean lab report. Karysa lives in the San Francisco Bay Area along with millions of other people, including her wonderful family.

 Website: https://www.karysafaire.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KarysaFaireAuthor/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/KarysaFaire

Join mailing list: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/i7i7l5

#FREE eBook just for you!

26 Thursday Dec 2019

Posted by in 2019, Uncategorized

≈ 2 Comments

Tags

, , , , , , , , , , ,

My gift to you this holiday season is the gift of a good read. Under the Mistletoe was the first book I published with the fabulous group of authors called the Bluestocking Belles. We’ve gone to publish a box set every year since 2015 for your reading enjoyment.

Grab this freebie while you can. It will be a refresher for you when our next box set, Fire & Frost, comes out on February 4, 2020. My story in the box set, A Second Chance At Love, continues to the story of secondary characters Lady Constance Whittles and Viscount Digby Osgood. I know you’ll just love this story, too!

Read on for an excerpt from Under the Mistletoe and Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and may you all have a prosperous New Year!

Excerpt:

With Digby gone, Margaret took a seat by the fire, and Frederick sat opposite her. An awkward silence fell between them, broken only by the crackling and popping of the wood within the hearth. Conversation had never been stilted between them, but Margaret was clearly nervous because she kept peeking over her shoulder as if she were being watched. Frederick was unsure what he should say to calm her nerves.

 

“You have no need to fear me, Margaret,” Frederick whispered softly now that they were alone.

 

“I do not fear you, Freddy.”

 

He was pleased to hear his name as it passed her lips. “Then what is troubling you so?”

 

The eyes raised to his were filled with worry. “Why are you here?”

 

He watched her fidget with the fabric of her gown. “You know why. I was invited,” Frederick answered.

 

A sound escaped her, but it was hardly ladylike. “You could easily have made your excuses and refused.”

 

“I wanted to make sure you were safe,” he replied.

 

“How could I not be safe? Captain Morledge is practically my betrothed.”

 

Frederick ran his hand across his eyes. “I do not trust him. There are rumors—”

 

The laugh she gave was meant to be merry, but sounded forced. “Frederick, please tell me you have not taken to believing in town gossip. I would have thought you, above all people, were above such nonsense.”

 

He frowned. “Nonsense or not, I needed to see for myself that you are not in danger, even if I must watch over you myself.”

 

“It is hardly necessary.” Margaret’s attention once more flew to the entryway.

 

He reached over to take her hand.

 

She wrenched back with a silent and pleading look, and the briefest shake of her head. Leaning slightly forward, she confided, “Please do not, for it will not be wise. The servants watch my every move, and even now, it is reckless of me to be here alone with you.”

 

“You see! There is cause for concern. Why will you not let me help you?”

 

“Please, Freddy. This is my one chance to find some happiness. Do not ruin it for me.”

 

“We have discussed this before, Margaret. You know my offer still stands. I would wed you on the morrow if you would have me.”

 

“Shush, you fool. You know I cannot.”

 

“Yet you would enter into a marriage with a man you do not love.”

 

A heavy sigh left her lips. “I can learn to love him.”

 

“Now who is the fool?” he grumbled irritably.

 

Under the Mistletoe
by Sherry Ewing
FREE – through December 29th

A new suitor seeks her hand. An old flame holds her heart. Which one will she meet under the kissing bough?

When Margaret Templeton is requested to act as hostess at Captain Sander Morledge’s Christmas party and possibly agree to marry him, she did not think she would see the man who once held her heart. Frederick Maddock, Viscount Beacham had never forgotten the young woman he had fallen in love with, and his feelings are evident when he sees her at a holiday gathering. In a swirl of Christmas miracles and joyous celebration, will the two finally put down their differences and once again fall in love?

Buy Links:

Amazon US  |  Apple Books | Barnes & Noble | Kobo
Amazon AU | Amazon CA | Amazon DE | Amazon FR | Amazon UK

Medieval Monday with guest Bambi Lynn

19 Monday Feb 2018

Posted by in Uncategorized

≈ 5 Comments

I’d like to welcome Bambi Lynn as my guest today for Medieval Monday. Read on for a snippet from her book Mask of the Highlander and don’t forget to leave her a comment! Happy reading and enjoy!

Excerpt:

When that did not happen, she gave in to her debilitating fear and gave up trying to remain calm. She shook so hard, she worried her knees would give way. Just a few hours ago, she had been at peace, content in the belief that her husband would never return, and they could live out their days in peace. Oh, the difference in such a short time.

For more information on Bambi and her books, click here.

 

 

BLURB:

Once she was afraid to touch him. Now she’s afraid to let go.

Forced to marry to avoid war between clans, Kenna Cleary endured three days of her new husband’s painful brutality before he rode off to battle the English. In the five years of his absence, she bore him a daughter, increased his holdings, and gained the love and respect of his people. Now he’s home. Must she and the clan learn to endure his cruelty once more?

The Laird of Domhnul has returned from war a changed man—moreso than his wife or clan can possibly know. Now the warrior faces a new battle, one for his wife’s heart, and his peoples’ trust. He must walk the knife’s edge of deception and danger, while proving he is no longer the cruel tyrant they came to know all too well.

But when his father embroils both them in a deadly plot, can the couple find a way to prevent war between the clans?

BUY LINK

Amazon

 

 

First Kiss Friday with guest Tricia Linden

30 Friday Jun 2017

Posted by in First Kiss Friday, Uncategorized

≈ 5 Comments

Tags

, ,

Any day I can introduce this marvelous author is indeed a great day. Today it’s my pleasure to have on First Kiss Friday my wonderful critique partner, Tricia Linden. Tricia is the first person (outside of family and close friends) who made me feel like a real author. We hope you enjoy this first kiss scene from Until We Meet Again. Happy reading and enjoy!

Excerpt:

She was about to give up and return to her room when she heard a floor board creak out in the hallway. Her eyes flew to the gap beneath the door. Whoever was out there was sure to see the light from her oil lamp shining under the doorway and be likely to investigate. She looked around for a way to explain her presence in Mr. Stevenson’s room; something to hide the fact that she had been snooping. She spied a short stack of books on the side table next to Robert’s overstuffed reading chair. She grabbed the top book, plopped into the chair and opened the book as if she had been reading. Though she was trembling with nerves, she nearly laughed out loud when she read the title of the book; The Gilded Age: a Tale of Today by Mark Twain and Charles Dudley Warner. It was too perfect.

A second later, the door opened and in stepped Robert looking truly displeased, and perhaps a bit surprised.

“Miss Winters? What the hell are you doing in my bedroom?”

“Oh my god, Robert, you scared the begeebers out of me!” she said with a start. “I was looking for something to read and didn’t want to go all the way down to the library. I saw this book by Mark Twain and thought I would give it a go, but it’s perfectly awful. How can you read this stuff?” She was familiar enough with the novel to know it was one of Twain’s less successful efforts.

The anger in his eyes dimmed but his stance remained wary. “I enjoyed Twain’s Prince and the Pauper and wanted to give it a try, but it doesn’t compare. However, I don’t recall giving you permission to enter my room.”

“You’re quite right, of course, but since I knew you had moved to a guest room, I didn’t think it would be a problem and I was hoping to find a quick read before going to bed.”

She sat the book down on the side table with the others and stood to leave, but Mr. Stevenson held his place between her and the door. He glanced down at the pile of books for a quick second, and then returned his gaze to her, eyeing her from head to toe. He was no doubt questioning why she had taken the liberty of making herself at home in his room when she was dressed for bed. It probably looked as though she’d been lying in wait to seduce him, except she hadn’t expected him to return to his room. She’d been snooping, not planning seduction.

Silence crept up between them and expanded, robbing the air from her lungs. She really should leave. It was the only right thing to do. Making a fast and hasty retreat, no matter how guilty she appeared, was better than trusting her ability to resist Mr. Robert L. Stevenson. The look in his eyes had turned naughty and enticing; a toxic combination.

“So you felt it was acceptable to come into my room because you were looking for something to read?” His raised brow indicated a high level of disbelief.

“Yes, I was looking for something—something special. Something I didn’t expect to find in your library.” She wanted to tell him more, so much more. She wanted to come clean, to confide in him and bare her soul, but she couldn’t; the risk was too great.

“Really? Tell me about it.” He spoke with a lazy smile, leaning against the door frame, waiting. She could practically hear the thoughts zipping through his brain. In that respect, they were much alike. Rarely, was she able to turn off the constant chatter and indulge in the silence of the moment.

“It’s late. I should go,” she said.

“It’s never too late when you’re looking for exactly what you need. In fact, the way I see it, this is perfect timing. Since you’ve ventured into my bedroom in the dark of night, it only seems fitting that I should offer you a drink,” Robert said in that smooth double-o-seven voice of his. It appeared he’d already had a drink, or maybe three, probably while entertaining his clients at dinner. He closed the door behind him with a click. The crystal door knob glinted in the glow of the lamp light, mocking her thoughts of escape.

He shrugged out of his overcoat and hung it on a hook at the back of the door. Next, he removed his tie and cuff links before starting on the pearl buttons at the neck of his shirt.

Victoria watched in shocked fascination as his fingers deftly undid the top buttons of his shirt, one by one. She held her breath, wondering if he would continue to undress, hoping he would, knowing he shouldn’t. Her normal breathing resumed when he stopped and motioned to the liquor tray sitting on a sideboard.

“Will you join me?”

“For a drink?” Yes, a drink would do her good about now. Then, when she let him ravish her body, as she so wanted him to do, she could claim it was the fault of the liquor. “What do you have?” What was she thinking?

“Brandy, cognac, and port; which do you prefer?”

For hard spirits, she preferred shots of tequila, but was fairly certain the Mexican brew hadn’t yet made its way into many homes in nineteenth century New York. She really should say, “No, thank you,” and walk away, but instead she considered her options. “Brandy sounds interesting. I think I’d like to try that.”

“You don’t drink?” His brows quirked upward.

“No, of course not. I’m a governess.” The lie slipped easily from her lips. Everything about her was a lie; the way she pretended to be from this time, and that she wasn’t attracted to him. But this was wrong, so very wrong.  She was the governess to his daughter and he was her employer. She should leave, and she would if he wasn’t blocking the door, and looking so sexy, and offering her a drink.

“I’ve seen you drink wine with dinner.” He moved away from the door and slipped off his suit coat which he draped over a ladder-back chair.

“Yes, but not hard spirits.” She shouldn’t be here in her night gown, accepting a drink from her employer while his shirt was nearly half unbuttoned, once again exposing a glimpse of his enticing chest. Perhaps it was time to use her position in his house as her shield against his enticements. Then again, since he was no longer blocking the door, perhaps she should just make a run for it. It was a great idea, if she wanted to look like a scared ninny.

He poured a generous amount of brandy into one glass. She wondered if that was for him or for her. He surprised her when he took a swallow and then handed her the glass.

“Are we expected to share?”

“I thought it best to see how you’ll react to something you haven’t tried before.”

She tilted her head in consideration. “Probably not a bad idea.” What was she saying? This whole thing was a bad idea.

She accepted the glass and sniffed. Smooth, not harsh. She guessed it to be expensive. She took a small sip to taste—very pleasant—and then another larger one. It burned, but not overly. The heat of the brandy felt good going down as it spread quickly through her body, leaving a comfortable blanket of warmth in its wake.

She handed him back the brandy and he drank the rest. “Would you like more?” he asked.

She wanted to say yes, but shook her head no, not trusting herself to speak.

“As you wish.” He set down the empty glass. The room hummed with sexual tension. He stepped close to her and paused, but only for a moment before he kissed her, leaving her no time to think, only react. He smelled of drink, with the sweetness of brandy lingering on his lips. She should be pushing him away. She should be slapping his face. Instead, she wrapped her arms around his neck and let him draw her tighter into his embrace, his body perfectly aligned with hers. This was all his fault. He was too darn sexy and she was too darn horny. But this was more than just hormones raging out of control. This was passion, damn it.

Heated passion spread through her body, melting her core and softening her resolve. She’d felt it before but she wouldn’t allow herself to feel it again. Horny was one thing—horny happened and then it was gone—but desire stayed tucked in a breast pocket, ready to dole out despair in moments of weakness long after the moment had ended.

Until We Meet Again

Victoria Winters doesn’t regret her affair at Woodstock, or that she returned from the past pregnant with a daughter who would never know her father. Maggie is the light of her life and her only desire is for the two of them to live happily ever after, but she’s deeply indebted to the Maestro, a mysterious man who saved her life in exchange for becoming his time-traveling courier.  Victoria has spent the last four years caring for her daughter, but she still has time to pay, and now she’s being recalled into service to travel to Manhattan in 1888 to retrieve a lost Stradivarius violin.

The Maestro has tracked the missing violin to Robert  Stevenson, a successful investment banker living the good life in the gilded age of Manhattan. After his wife’s untimely death he seeks to employ a new governess for his eight year old daughter. When Victoria shows up at his front door, it’s obvious she’s the perfect candidate for the job, even though he suspects there’s much more to Miss Winters than she’s willing to tell.

If Victoria can find the violin in three short weeks, she’ll earn a great reward, shaving years off her ten-year contract with the Maestro. If she fails, she risks losing her daughter, and possibly her life. Before her assignment is over, she’ll be forced to choose. What is she willing to lose to have everything she ever wanted?

Buy Link: http://amzn.to/2rAFpoC

Bio:

An International Banker by trade, and a romance writer by desire.

In this lifetime, I’ve lived in five states, on two islands, and on a farm, and am now living in Northern California. My travels have taken me to Guam, Canada, Mexico, Australia, Hong Kong, England, Scotland, several countries in Europe, and several states in the US.  Besides my love of reading and writing romance, I have a great fondness for zydeco dancing, classic rock and best of all, Pink Flamingos. Over the years, I’ve gathered a rather large collection of the fun pink birds.

I believe in life, love and the pursuit of romance and am living happily ever after with my soul-mate in Northern California. “My life is magical, I am truly blessed.”

Visit Tricia at:
Website  |  Facebook  |  Twitter  | Email

First Kiss Friday with Sherry Ewing and A Kiss for Charity

30 Friday Sep 2016

Posted by in First Kiss Friday, Uncategorized

≈ Leave a comment

Tags

, , , , , , , , , , , ,

Today on First Kiss Friday, I’d like to introduce you to my hero, Lord Nicholas Lacy, and heroine, Grace, Lady de Courtenay. As you’ve already seen in the previous two weeks, I’ll be showcasing each of the novellas in the Bluestocking Belles’ next box set, Holly and Hopeful Hearts. My novella is entitled, A Kiss for Charity and we find my couple meeting at a masqurade ball at Vauxhall Gardens. Please enjoy this excerpt of their first kiss!

Excerpt:

“May I have the pleasure of this dance?” he inquired politely, already knowing her answer.

Her gloved hand slipped into his and he felt as though he had waited his entire life for her to say yes. Yes to the dance. Yes to anything else he might propose, be it for one night or something they might both wish to be a longer commitment.

She was an accomplished dancer. He had already witnessed her talent, yet it was far more pleasurable to watch her when she was now his partner instead of another. He wished to know who she was, but the fast paced dance was hardly a place to carry on a meaningful conversation about getting to know one another.

Was it two dances later or maybe three? Nicholas lost track of time but finally, he placed his hand about the lady’s waist to expertly guide her out into the garden. It had been some time since he had allowed himself the pleasure of enjoying a woman’s company, especially in the moonlight.

The evening was cool, and when he saw her shiver, he shrugged out of his jacket since he had left his cape behind in the supper box. He placed the garment about her shoulders. She took ahold of the lapels and brought it closer. He swore he could hear her sniff the edges as if she were going to commit to her memory the smell of his cologne once he was gone.

Nicholas reached out to remove her mask so he could finally see all of her features.

“No.” She held out her hand to stop his efforts. “The domino stays in place if you wish me to remain here with you.”

“If that is your wish, so be it.”

“It is,” she answered quietly.

Nicholas did not remember it being this difficult to kiss a lady in the moonlight, but she must desire to be with him, too, else she would not be standing outside with him now. He could no longer stand the distance between them. Surely some form of spell had been cast upon him to be acting so rashly.

“Who are you?” he asked, taking ahold of both her arms and bringing her closer.

“Does it matter?”

“How else am I to call upon you tomorrow if I know not your name tonight, my lady?”

This unknown woman who teased his senses gave a careless shrug but took a step closer. She placed her hand upon his chest. “Let it be enough that for tonight I am free to do as I please.”

He grinned at her response. One moment Nicholas was staring into her mask and brown eyes, and the next he was lowering his mouth to meet her lips.

ornament-1986808

Grace was unsure if it was the moonlight that drove her to such reckless behavior or the thought of having just one moment in time to treasure with a man who wanted to be with a mysterious, and perhaps, desirable woman. In either case, nothing prepared her for the instant their lips met. She supposed that since she did not protest going down the garden path with him that this would be the natural course of what would happen next. But still… surely she was slipping at the very brink of tasting heaven itself from their first kiss.

Such a kiss was at first like an introduction when his mouth slowly slid over hers as though he were searching for some hidden meaning to their attraction to one another. There was nothing demanding or urgent in seeing the matter over and done with. No, the kiss was a mingling of breaths. It was two souls connecting in the night. A simple kiss, yet there was nothing simple about it. He stopped as quickly as he started then stared into her eyes, yet she knew the domino hid her features well enough that he would be unable to identify her in the light of day.

Adrian would be mortified if he had any idea what she was up to with a complete stranger. Thinking of her brother conjured an image of her deceased husband. Although his kisses had been pleasurable, they could not compare to what this stranger made her feel.

“Tell me who you are,” he urged again. He tucked a stray lock of hair behind her ear that had fallen from her coiffure and then cupped her cheek. “You must tell me.”

She leaned into his palm. The sensation of his thumb tracing her skin had her resolve weakening but not enough to reveal her identity. “I cannot, for I will not have you think less of me from my actions here this night. I am not what I seem.”

“I see a desirable woman I wish to get to know better,” he declared with a grin and an appreciative glance at her heaving bosom. There was no way she could mistake his meaning given the proximity of their bodies and the bold glare he gave her down the length of her body.

ABOUT HOLLY AND HOPEFUL HEARTS

When the Duchess of Haverford sends out invitations to a Yuletide house party and a New Year’s Eve ball at her country estate, Hollystone Hall, those who respond know that Her Grace intends to raise money for her favorite cause and promote whatever marriages she can. Eight assorted heroes and heroines set out with their pocketbooks firmly clutched and hearts in protective custody. Or are they?

A Suitable Husband, by Jude Knight

As the Duchess of Haverford’s companion, Cedrica Grenford is not treated as a poor relation and is encouraged to mingle with Her Grace’s guests. Surely she can find a suitable husband amongst the gentlemen gathered for the duchess’s house party. Above stairs or possibly below.

Valuing Vanessa, by Susana Ellis

Facing a dim future as a spinster under her mother’s thumb, Vanessa Sedgely makes a practical decision to attach an amiable gentleman who will not try to rule her life.

A Kiss for Charity, by Sherry Ewing

Young widow Grace, Lady de Courtenay, has no idea how a close encounter with a rake at a masquerade ball would make her yearn for love again. Can she learn to forgive Lord Nicholas Lacey and set aside their differences to let love into her heart?

Artemis, by Jessica Cale

Actress Charlotte Halfpenny is in trouble. Pregnant, abandoned by her lover, and out of a job, Charlotte faces eviction two weeks before Christmas. When the reclusive Earl of Somerton makes her an outrageous offer, she has no choice but to accept. Could he be the man of her dreams, or is the nightmare just beginning?

The Bluestocking and the Barbarian, by Jude Knight

James must marry to please his grandfather, the duke, and to win social acceptance for himself and his father’s other foreign-born children. But only Lady Sophia Belvoir makes his heart sing, and to win her he must invite himself to spend Christmas at the home of his father’s greatest enemy.

Christmas Kisses, by Nicole Zoltack

Louisa Wycliff, Dowager Countess of Exeter wants only for her darling daughter, Anna, to find a man she can love and marry. Appallingly, Anna has her sights on a scoundrel of a duke who chases after every skirt he sees. Anna truly thinks the dashing duke cares for her, but her mother has her doubts.

An Open Heart, by Caroline Warfield

Esther Baumann longs for a loving husband who will help her create a home where they will teach their children to value the traditions of their people, but she wants a man who is also open to new ideas and happy to make friends outside their narrow circle. Is it so unreasonable to ask for toe curling passion as well?

Dashing Through the Snow, by Amy Rose Bennett

Headstrong bluestocking, Miss Kate Woodville, never thought her Christmas would be spent racing across England with a viscount hell-bent on vengeance. She certainly never expected to find love…

Holly and Hopeful Hearts is a Bluestocking Belles Collection available for pre-order at $2.99 and will be released November 8, 2016. 25% of the sales benefit the Belles’ mutual charity the Malala Fund.

Buy Links:

Amazon US | Amazon Australia | Amazon Canada | Amazon UK

Kobo | iBooks | Nook |  Smashwords

Happy book birthday for To Follow My Heart!

21 Tuesday Jun 2016

Posted by in Uncategorized

≈ Leave a comment

It’s always a great day when you can celebrate the launch of another book. To Follow My Heart is the next installment in my Knights of Berwyck, A Quest Through Time series and I’m so happy to bring you Fletcher and Jenna’s story. I keep telling myself that it’s beginning to get hard for me to say which of my characters are my favorite. My opinion changes with each new release. I hope you’ll enjoy their story through Time.

Come join my two day Facebook event to help me and my guests celebrate my new release here. There will be lots of giveaways and fun to keep you entertained!

You can also find an exceprt on my dedicated book page here on my website.

Buy Links ~

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | iBooks | Kobo

Amazon AU | Amazon BR | AmazonCA | Amazon DE | AmazonFR | Amazon UK

Thanks to everyone who has supported me by purchasing my novels and vaulting them into the bestsellers they’ve become. I sincerely appreciate everyone’s support. Happy reading!

All the best,

Sherry Ewing

Welcome to the Belles’ Holiday Wassailing Tour

18 Friday Dec 2015

Posted by in Uncategorized

≈ Leave a comment

Welcome to the seventh stop of the Belles Holiday Wassailing Tour.

Lady Penelope Whittles

Lady Penelope Whittles and her neice, Lady Constance, from Under the Mistletoe would like to welcome you to their home for your next stop of food and drinks. The house is full with visiting guests including Miss Margaret Templeton, her younger sister Sophie, Frederick, Viscount Beacham, and Lord Digby Osgood.

To win a signed print copy of For All of Ever: The Knights of Berwyck, A Quest Through Time (Book One), comment below with your favorite holiday song and the answer to be found at the last stop on the tour, Caroline Warfield’s blog.

What are the names of Catherine Wheatly’s brothers?

 

Miss Sophie Templeton

The sound of holiday music and singing is disrupted by the barking of a puppy let loose in the house.

“Margaret, please have your sister take her dog outside this instant,” Lady Whittles ordered. “With a house full of guests, this is no time to have an animal running astray inside.”

“Of course, Aunt Penelope,” Margaret replied. With wide eyes, she sees the pup scampering under the table laden with food in the dining room. Sophie is following close behind. She reaches her sister at the threshold of the room.

“Honestly, Margaret, It is not my fault,,” Sophie said all ready knowing she was in trouble.

“How in the world did Tulip get inside,” Margaret asks wondering how to catch the dog who’s head peeks out from beneath the table as though waiting for a tidbit to fall.

“She sneaked in when the footman brought in more firewood,” Sophie answered. “She is not hurting anyone and it is cold outside.

“Cold or not, Tulip needs to go back out to the barn. We are guests here, sweet pea. No sense upsetting Aunt Penelope after all her efforts to make this party a success.”

“You are never any fun anymore since you became all grown up,” Sophie pouts but her eyes suddenly begin to sparkle with merriment. “Hello, Freddy.”

“Allow me, Miss Templeton,” Lord Beacham says with a kind smile.

Impervious to his well-tailored breeches, Viscount Beacham proceeds to crawl under the table to take hold of a squirming Tulip. Once again, Frederick has saved the day.

Separator

Miss Margaret Templeton, along with her sister Sophie, Frederick, Viscount Beacham, Lord Digby Osgood, Lady Penelope Whittles and her niece Lady Constance Whittles are characters in Under the Mistletoe, in Mistletoe, Marriage, and Mayhem

Miss Margaret Templeton & Frederick, Viscount Beacham

When Margaret Templeton is requested to act as hostess at Captain Sander Morledge’s Christmas party and possibly agree to marry him, she did not think she would see the man who once held her heart.

Frederick Maddock, Viscount Beacham had never forgotten the young woman he had fallen in love with, and his feelings are evident when he sees her at a holiday gathering.

In a swirl of Christmas miracles and joyous celebration, will the two finally put down their differences and once again fall in love?

Separator

Lord Digby Osgood  & Lady Constance Whittles

Constance is delighted to witness the latest guest who was handing his coat and hat to the footman. She rushes to his side. “Lord Osgood, you are just in time. We are just now serving the Christmas Wassail.”

Digby gives her a short bow. “Your aunt was ever so gracious to invite me when we last met.”

“She did?” Constance looks towards her aunt who has a mischievous smile lit upon her face. Was her aunt playing the match maker?

Digby offers his arm. “Shall we, my lady?”

Constance gladly accepts Lord Osgood’s offer as they make their way to join the festivities.

 

Separator

Christmas Wassail Recipe

Originally published as Christmas Wassail in Country Woman December/January 2008, p22

www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/christmas-wassail

 

Ingredients

• 3 medium McIntosh or Rome apples, halved and cored

• 1/2 cup water

• 2 gallons apple cider or juice, divided

• 2 medium navel oranges, halved and sliced

• 2 medium lemons, halved and sliced

• 1-1/2 cups sugar

• 1 cinnamon stick (3 inches), halved

• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves

 

Directions

• Preheat oven to 375°. Place apples in an 8-in.-square baking dish, cut side down. Pour water around apples. Bake, uncovered, 20-25 minutes or until tender. Cool slightly.

• When cool enough to handle, scoop out pulp from apples and place in a blender; discard apple peel. Add 1/2 cup cider to blender; cover and process until smooth.

• In a stockpot, combine remaining ingredients, apple puree and remaining cider. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, 15 minutes. If desired, discard citrus slices and cinnamon stick before serving.

• Freeze option: If making in advance, you can cover and freeze the uncooked pie for up to 3 months. To use the frozen pie, bake at 375 for 70 minutes. Yield: 42 servings (3/4 cup each).

Separator

Excerpt from Under the Mistletoe

She returned her attention to a portrait of a seventeenth-century woman. The artist had captured her to perfection, painting the gown in exquisite detail, so that Margaret felt she could almost reach out to feel the actual pale blue fabric of material.

“What a beauty,” a male voice whispered behind her.

Margaret’s face flushed. She knew that voice, and that tone. That familiar low timbre had teased her many times in their youth. “Yes, she is indeed. See how the painter caught her expression in her eyes,” she replied, trying to sound calm as her heart raced with his nearness. “I wonder what she was staring at that caused her smile.”

The man chuckled softly and leaned closer. She could have sworn she felt the heat of his body through the fabric of her redingote. “I was not talking about the painting, Margaret.”

Catching her breath hearing her given name pass his lips, she, at last, turned to face the man whose offer of marriage she had rejected.

“Good day, Lord Beacham. How good to see you again after all these many years.” Was that breathy voice really her own? She curtseyed and held out her gloved hand. He took it, bowing low, and she tried to remain calm even though her heart was beating wildly in her chest.

Separator

Lady Whittles nods to a servant and the next course of mince pies.

Mince Pies

As served at the Christmas dinner of the Duke of Buckingham in 1808, with the expatriate French king, Louis XVIII.

Recipe from: A Complete System of Cookery, 4th Ed., by John Simpson, Cook to the late Marquis of Buckingham.

Seven pounds of currants, rubbed and picked very clean, and three pounds and a half of beef suet chopped very fine, three pounds and a half of the lean of a sirloin of beef minced raw, very fine, three pounds and a half of apples chopped very fine, (they should be the lemon pippin,) half a pound of citron cut in very small pieces, hall a pound of lemon peel, half a pound of orange peel cut like the citron, two pounds of fine moist sugar, one ounce of fine spice, (such as cloves, mace, nutmegs, and cinnamon, all pounded together and sifted), the rind of four lemons and four Seville oranges; all these to be rubbed together until well mixed; then put it into a deep pan, put over it one bottle of brandy, one of white wine, (of the sherry kind,) the juice of the lemons and oranges that have been grated, mix the wine and brandy together in a basin, and lemon and orange juice; pour half over and press it down tight with your hand, then add the other half, and let it remain at the top to soak in by degrees; cover it up. It should be made six weeks before it is wanted; the pans are sheeted with puff paste, and covered with the same. About ten minutes will bake them.

 Separator

“You must try Aunt Penelope’s mead, Lord Beacham,” Margaret said handing him a crystal glass.

Frederick takes a sip. “Most delightful. My compliments to your aunt for her fine meal.”

To Make Mead

Recipe from: Martha Lloyd’s Household Book

www.janeausten.co.uk/mead-home-brewed-honey-wine/

To every gallon of water put 4 lbs of honey, and for 20 gallons add as follows: 2 oz of nutmeg, half an oz of mace, half an oz of cloves, 2 ozs of race-ginger, all just bruised, and sewed up in a linene bag; then add a large handful of sweet briar with the above, boil it all together for an hour, skimming it all the time it boils; then drain it off. Add a little balm to it, if it does not work, turn it and let it stand a day or two. Then add the juice of 6 good lemons, with the rind of them and your bag of spices in the barrel. Stop it up close for 10 or 12 months. Then bottle it for use. You may add some more spices if you like it.

 

With thanks to the Jane Austen Society (Please see link for an in-depth discussion of the recipe).

 

Separator

Box-Set-3D-Square-Web

Mistletoe, Marriage, and Mayhem: A Bluestocking Belles Collection In this collection of novellas, the Bluestocking Belles bring you seven runaway Regency brides resisting and romancing their holiday heroes under the mistletoe. Whether scampering away or dashing toward their destinies, avoiding a rogue or chasing after a scoundrel, these ladies and their gentlemen leave miles of mayhem behind them on the slippery road to a happy-ever-after.

***All proceeds benefit the Malala Fund.***

Goodreads Reviews

Amazon | Smashwords | Amazon UK | Amazon Australia | Amazon Canada | Barnes & Noble | iTunes | Kobo

Donate to the Malala Fund

Separator

Aunt Penelope wishes her guests a safe journey and happy Christmas as they travel to their last stop on this progressive dinner. Make sure you link back to all of the Belles’ holiday wassailing stops, where you’ll find a different Regency era Christmas carol, dinner selection, beverage, and wassail recipes.

christmas

Digital Christmas Card by EKDuncan using digital Christmas ornaments of Regency ladies

Happy Release Day for Mistletoe, Marriage & Mayhem

01 Sunday Nov 2015

Posted by in Uncategorized

≈ Leave a comment

It may have been Halloween last night, but I was sitting at my laptop watching the numbers for the Bluestocking Belles’ first box set, Mistletoe, Marriage, & Mayhem, that releases today. The Belles were very excited as our chat window on Facebook could attest. My contribution to our box set is a novella entitled Under the Mistletoe, and I’m very excited for my readers to see my first Regency era story.

 The Bluestocking Belles will be celebrating today at our Facebook launch party  from 4-9 EST. Be sure to stop on by for fun, games, and giveaways from all eight Belles. We also have a grand prize and there is still plenty of time to enter our Rafflecopter contest.

 

Mistletoe, Marriage, and Mayhem: A Bluestocking Belles Collection

In this collection of novellas, the Bluestocking Belles bring you seven runaway Regency brides resisting and romancing their holiday heroes under the mistletoe. Whether scampering away or dashing toward their destinies, avoiding a rogue or chasing after a scoundrel, these ladies and their gentlemen leave miles of mayhem behind them on the slippery road to a happy-ever-after.

***All proceeds benefit the Malala Fund***

 Here is a glimpse of the seven novellas:

 All She Wants for Christmas, by Amy Rose Bennett

A frosty bluestocking and a hot-blooded rake. A stolen kiss and a Yuletide wedding. Sparks fly, but will hearts melt this Christmas?

The Ultimate Escape, by Susana Ellis

Abandoned on his wedding day, Oliver must choose between losing his bride forever or crossing over two hundred years to find her and win her back.

Under the Mistletoe, by Sherry Ewing

Margaret Templeton will settle for Captain Morledge’s hand in marriage, until she sees the man she once loved. Who will win her heart at the Christmas party of her would-be betrothed?

’Tis Her Season, by Mariana Gabrielle

Charlotte Amberly returns a Christmas gift from her intended—the ring—then hares off to London to take husband-hunting into her own hands. Will she let herself be caught?

Gingerbread Bride, by Jude Knight

Traveling with her father’s fleet has not prepared Mary Pritchard for London. When she strikes out on her own, she finds adventure, trouble, and her girlhood hero, riding once more to her rescue.

A Dangerous Nativity, by Caroline Warfield

With Christmas coming, can the Earl of Chadbourn repair his widowed sister’s damaged estate, and far more damaged family? Dare he hope for love in the bargain?

Joy to the World, by Nicole Zoltack

Eliza Berkeley discovers she is marrying the wrong man—on her wedding day. When the real duke turns up instead, will her chance at marital bliss be spoiled?

 Here are my hero and heroine from Under the Mistletoe:

    

Here’s an excerpt from Under the Mistletoe:

With Digby gone, Margaret took a seat by the fire, and Frederick sat opposite her. An awkward silence fell between them, broken only by the crackling and popping of the wood within the hearth. Conversation had never been stilted between them, but Margaret was clearly nervous because she kept peeking over her shoulder as if she were being watched. Frederick was unsure what he should say to calm her nerves.

“You have no need to fear me, Margaret,” Frederick whispered softly now that they were alone.

“I do not fear you, Freddy.”

He was pleased to hear his name as it passed her lips. “Then what is troubling you so?”

The eyes raised to his were filled with worry. “Why are you here?”

He watched her fidget with the fabric of her gown. “You know why. I was invited,” Frederick answered.

A sound escaped her, but it was hardly ladylike. “You could easily have made your excuses and refused.”

“I wanted to make sure you were safe,” he replied.

“How could I not be safe? Captain Morledge is practically my betrothed.”

Frederick ran his hand across his eyes. “I do not trust him. There are rumors—”

The laugh she gave was meant to be merry, but sounded forced. “Frederick, please tell me you have not taken to believing in town gossip. I would have thought you, above all people, were above such nonsense.”

He frowned. “Nonsense or not, I needed to see for myself that you are not in danger, even if I must watch over you myself.”

“It is hardly necessary.” Margaret’s attention once more flew to the entryway.

He reached over to take her hand.

She wrenched back with a silent and pleading look, and the briefest shake of her head. Leaning slightly forward, she confided, “Please do not, for it will not be wise. The servants watch my every move, and even now, it is reckless of me to be here alone with you.”

“You see! There is cause for concern. Why will you not let me help you?”

“Please, Freddy. This is my one chance to find some happiness. Do not ruin it for me.”

“We have discussed this before, Margaret. You know my offer still stands. I would wed you on the morrow if you would have me.”

“Shush, you fool. You know I cannot.”

“Yet you would enter into a marriage with a man you do not love.”

A heavy sigh left her lips. “I can learn to love him.”

“Now who is the fool?” he grumbled irritably.

Buy Links for Mistletoe, Marriage, & Mayhem

Amazon

Amazon UK

Amazon Australia

Amazon Germany

Amazon France

Amazon Japan

Amazon Spain

Amazon Italy

Amazon Netherlands

Amazon Canada

Amazon Brussels

Amazon Mexico

Amazon India

 

Barnes and Noble

 iBooks

 Kobo

Smashwords

CreateSpace

new-avatar-for-fb

The Bluestocking Belles Online:

— Website and home of the Teatime Tattler: www.BluestockingBelles.com

— Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest

#BooksNotBullets

12 Sunday Jul 2015

Posted by in Uncategorized

≈ Leave a comment

Today marks the 18th birthday of Mala Yossafzai the young girl who stood up to for education and was shot by the Taliban for standing up for what she believes in. Join me and fellow Bluestocking Belles as we support Malala to spread the word that everyone deserves an education!

The amount of money that is spent on military spending is staggering. If world leaders would take just eight days to redirect funidng, we could have $39 billion still needed to provide 12 years of free, quality education to every child on the planet.

Post a picture of one of your favorite books and don’t forget to use the #BooksNotBullets today in your posts. I chose my four novels because I believe that each of my characters overcome many obstacles that sometimes stand in their way so they can have thier happily ever after ending!

No child or adult should be deprived of an education. Stand with us for this important cause. One voice can make a difference. Just imagine the results if we all raised our voices todgether!

Learn more about Malala and her worthy cause here

Welcome Bluestocking Belle Jude Knight & Anne Forsythe

12 Friday Jun 2015

Posted by in Uncategorized

≈ Leave a comment

It’s another fabulous Friday and I’d like to welcome Anne Forsythe to my blog. So pull up a chair along with your favorite cup of tea and let’s chat with this extrodinary woman to learn a little more about her!

Interview with Anne Forsythe, a widow who lives in a house owned by the Earl of Chirbury in the village of Longford

What do you consider your greatest achievement? Rescuing my family, without a doubt, and establishing them here in Longford. I have not done it alone, of course. Dear Ruth has been with me every step of the way, and we were so lucky to find our servant, Hannah. She came as wet nurse to my daughter, Daisy, and has stayed to look after us all. She is a treasure.

I was only 18, you know, when we had to run. Ruth was not more than two years older. But we could not stay to let my uncle carry out his wicked plans. Fortunately, I had a little money—enough to get us all to London and to hide us for long enough… Well, suffice it to say that it was neither easy nor pleasant, but it worked. That is the important thing, is it not?

Then, when we came to Longford, Mr Baxter the land agent was very helpful, and the dear Rector and his wife, too. We have really been very fortunate.

What is your idea of perfect happiness? An evening at home with my family. We play games, or take turns in reading aloud, or we sing. I love to sit and listen to my sisters, Kitty and Ruth, singing. My own voice is nothing to speak of, but I believe that Daisy, my daughter, will have a very pretty voice when she is grown.

What is your current state of mind? I am content. We have a roof over our heads, food to put on the table, clothes to our backs. Many are not as fortunate. We, ourselves, went hungry to bed in that first year in Longford, when we were still learning to stretch every shilling. In another year, things will change again, but I do not believe we could be happier than we are now.

What is your favorite occupation? My sisters would tell you that I love best to organise things, and I fear there is some truth in that! Let me see. My favourite occupation. I like to sew. I enjoy cooking when our dear servant Hannah will let me. I love teaching; I teach three mornings a week at the local mill school.

I know! Archery. Archery is my favourite occupation. When I practice at the foot of the garden, or compete in the competitions… it is as if I am transported to another world. Nothing exists except the bow, the string, the arrow, the target. And the satisfaction of placing each arrow where I want it! There is nothing like it in the world.

What is your most treasured possession? I have a prayer book that was my mother’s. It is the only thing of hers that I have. There were a few pieces of jewellery—nothing valuable, but little things my poor brother let me have when I turned 17. They are all sold, gone to feed us in those first years. But I have my mother’s prayer book, and when I say my prayers at night, I feel so close to her.

What or who is the greatest love of your life? Do you mean romantic love? That is not for me. I hope my dear sister Kitty will one day find a husband she can love, and who will love her. But I am past the age, do you not think?

Oh. You are wondering about Mr Forsythe? I never speak of Daisy’s father. Did you have another question?

What is your most marked characteristic? Determination. I will do anything for my family, and will not danger or disapproval stand in my way.

When and where were you the happiest? I am now the happiest I have ever been. I am content.

What is it that you most dislike? Hypocrisy. I strongly dislike the way people can be nice before your eyes and yet claw at your reputation behind your back. I have often seen it in the village. I cannot abide mean-minded gossip, but I most dislike the kind of two-faced dissembling that often masks such nastiness from the victim.

What is your greatest fear? I fear having my sister Kitty taken from us. I believe the rest of us are safe. Dear Meg is not quite 21, but I think—I am almost certain—that my uncle would leave her to me. He wanted to put her away; he feared her, I think. Which is silly; she is the gentlest, sweetest creature. A child in the body of an adult. But I have seen that reaction in others. People can be very cruel to those who are different.

Still, I think that means Meg is safe. But Kitty… If my uncle finds us… I will not let it happen. If I must, I will take my family again, and start over somewhere else.

What is your greatest extravagance? You may laugh, but my greatest extravagance is good quality tea. Truly, if I never again have a thrice-steeped cup it will be too soon! Now that Ruth and I are both earning a few shillings, I always buy the best quality of tea I can. The village shop knows to stock it for me, and one of my great pleasures is to sit in the morning with our dear Hannah, before anyone else is awake, sipping tea by the kitchen fire.

Which living person do you most despise? Beyond a doubt, it is either my uncle or his son. I think my uncle, because he should have cared for the orphaned daughters of his brother, but he immediately tried to turn his guardianship to his own account. I hate it when people prey on the weak.

What is your greatest regret? I regret that I didn’t sleep with my sisters, or have them with me, the night that it all changed. If I had, my brother might yet be alive; I might have had my season; all might have been different. And yet… I am content, and my sisters are happy, I believe. Things would have been different, but who is to say they would have been better?

Which talent would you most like to have? To sing like Kitty? To play the pianoforte as well as Ruth? To be happy with little blessings like Meg? My sisters are the talented ones! What talent would I like for myself? Let me think… I know. I would like to be able to turn pebbles into gold. Wouldn’t that be a gift to treasure?

Where would you like to live? If I could, I would stay here in Longford. I know that Kitty must have her chance, and we’ll have to go to Bath, or perhaps Bristol, for that. Bath, I think. But if we can retain the tenancy on the cottage, I will always come back here. I feel part of the community here. We have been happy here.

What do you regard as the lowest depth of misery? Failing my sisters and my daughter. It is my duty and my delight to keep them safe, and to do that I must keep them hidden. I cannot fail. I cannot imagine any worse misery than knowing that they have been harmed because I failed.

What is the quality you most like in a man? Integrity. Someone who is true to their commitments all the way through to the bone. Sadly, few men seem to be like that.

What is the quality you most like in a woman? Loyalty.

What is the trait you most deplore in yourself? Cowardice. I cannot tell you the number of times I’ve wanted to just give up. But however hard it may be, I have to continue for the sake of Kitty and Meg—yes, and my daughter Daisy, too.

What is the trait you most deplore in others? Hypocrisy. People should be open about what they want, and what they are doing. Little communities like ours—people can tear them apart if they are two-faced—if they say one thing to you and another behind your back.

What do you most value in your friends? Honesty. Friends should be honest with one another. And supportive. That’s important, too.

Who is your favorite hero or heroine of fiction? You will be shocked, but I have a great respect for Moll Flanders. Some of her choices were terrible, of course, and her early life immoral at best. But consider her disadvantages! Through it all, she was her own woman. She was brave and determined. I respect that.

Who are your heroes or heroines in real life? Ruth is my heroine. She is my best friend. She gave up everything to come with us, and she has stood by me through all the last seven years. Longer. She didn’t have to… my uncle could not have touched her. But she has been a rock. And the Rector’s wife, Mrs Ashbrook—all those children and she still finds time for everyone in need.

Which living person do you most admire? Mrs Ashbrook

What do you consider the most overrated virtue? Meekness. I do not consider meekness a virtue at all. The Bible assures us that the meek will inherit the earth, but until that happy day, I think meekness merely encourages tyrants and bullies.

On what occasions do you lie? I do not like lies. I try to always be honest. But I will lie for my family. I have done so once before, and I would do so again if I had to. The safety and wellbeing of my daughter and my sisters–of my whole household—takes first place. If I can, I will simply avoid the truth. But a direct lie? Yes. Rarely, with reluctance, but yes.

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be? I would like to be able to wave a magic wand and be more patient. Learning patience the long way, through all the frustrations of life… it is hard, and I seem to be a slow learner.

How would you like to die? I would like to die in my own bed, with my family around me, after a short illness that gives me time to say farewell to those I love.

What is your motto? Family first

A Baron for Becky ~ by Jude Knight

Release Date ~ August 5, 2015

Available now for pre-order

Becky is the envy of the courtesans of the demi-monde – the indulged mistress of the wealthy and charismatic Marquis of Aldridge. But she dreams of a normal life; one in which her daughter can have a future that does not depend on beauty, sex, and the whims of a man.

Finding herself with child, she hesitates to tell Aldridge. Will he cast her off, send her away, or keep her and condemn another child to this uncertain shadow world?

The devil-may-care face Hugh shows to the world hides a desperate sorrow; a sorrow he tries to drown with drink and riotous living. His years at war haunt him, but even more, he doesn’t want to think about the illness that robbed him of the ability to father a son. When he dies, his barony will die with him. His title will fall into abeyance, and his estate will be scooped up by the Crown.

When Aldridge surprises them both with a daring proposition, they do not expect love to be part of the bargain.

Buy LInks:

Smashwords |iBooks  | Amazon 

Jude Knight Bio:

Jude Knight started writing fiction when she was still at school, but went on to spend many years as a commercial writer. In late December 2012, she came home from her mother’s funeral determined to finally achieve the dream her mother had always supported.

After more than a year collecting ideas, doing research, and creating plots and character sketches, she stopped procrastinating and started writing. Her first novella was published just before Christmas in 2014, and – to Jude’s awed surprise – hit several Amazon bestseller lists in both the US and the UK, at one point reaching the top 2 in the US and the very top in the UK. 2015 is the year of the novel, with one in April, one in August, and one in October. Jude is also part of a collaborative group of writers, the Blusetocking Belles, so watch for their boxed set just before Christmas 2015.

Jude chose 1 April as the launch date for Farewell to Kindness in honour of all the people who told her that she’d never achieve anything if she didn’t get her head out of a book.

In Jude’s books, you’ll find strong determined heroines, heroes who can appreciate a clever capable woman, and villains you’ll love to loathe. The novel plots tend towards the gothic, with a leavening of humour, and some insights into the similarities and differences between now and way back then.

Jude thinks her Mum would have liked them.