Eliza Knight's Blog, page 35
February 3, 2014
Historical Fiction Review: Becoming Josephine by Heather Webb
A stunning, intense, emotionally gripping depiction of the first wife of Napoleon, Becoming Josephine, is a MUST read for all lovers of historical fiction.About the Book
Publication Date: December 31, 2013
Plume Books/Penguin
Paperback; 320p
ISBN-10: 0142180653
Rose Tascher sails from her Martinique plantation to Paris to trade her Creole black magic culture for love and adventure. She arrives exultant to follow her dreams of attending Court with Alexandre, her elegant aristocrat and soldier husband. But Alexandre dashes her hopes and abandons her amid the tumult of the French Revolution.
Through her savoir faire, Rose secures her footing in high society, reveling in handsome men and glitzy balls—until the heads of her friends begin to roll.
After narrowly escaping death in the blood-drenched cells of Les Carmes prison, she reinvents herself as Josephine, a socialite of status and power. Yet her youth is fading, and Josephine must choose between a precarious independence and the love of an awkward suitor. Little does she know, he would become the most powerful man of his century- Napoleon Bonaparte.
BECOMING JOSEPHINE is a novel of one woman’s journey to find eternal love and stability, and ultimately to find herself.
Praise for Becoming Josephine
“Heather Webb’s epic novel captivates from its opening in a turbulent plantation society in the Caribbean, to the dramatic rise of one of France’s most fascinating women: Josephine Bonaparte. Perfectly balancing history and story, character and setting, detail and pathos, Becoming Josephine marks a debut as bewitching as its protagonist." –Erika Robuck, author of Hemingway's Girl
“With vivid characters and rich historical detail, Heather Webb has portrayed in Josephine a true heroine of great heart, admirable strength, and inspiring courage whose quest is that of women everywhere: to find, and claim, oneself.” --Sherry Jones, bestselling author of The Jewel of the Medina
“A fast-paced, riveting journey, Becoming Josephine captures the volatile mood of one of the most intense periods of history—libertine France, Caribbean slave revolts, the French Revolution and the Napoleonic Wars—from the point of a view of one of its key witnesses, Josephine Bonaparte.” –Dana Gynther, author of Crossing on the Paris
"Vivid and passionate, Becoming Josephine captures the fiery spirit of the woman who stole Napoleon’s heart and enchanted an empire. –Susan Spann, author of The Shinobi Mysteries
“Spellbinding . . . Heather Webb’s novel takes us behind the mask of the Josephine we thought we knew.” –Christy English, author of How to Tame a Willful Wife and To Be Queen
“Enchanting prose takes the reader on an unforgettable journey . . . Captivating young Rose springs from the lush beauty of her family's sugar plantation in Martinique to shine in the eighteenth century elegance of Parisian salon society. When France is torn by revolution, not even the blood-bathed terror of imprisonment can break her spirit.” –Marci Jefferson, author of Girl on the Gold Coin (Thomas Dunne Books, 2014)
My Review
Growing up, my grandparents lived in Paris and Provence, so I spent many summers traveling there. I fell in love with France and its culture. Everything about it mesmerized me. I've always been fascinated by Napoleon--the tiny little Corsican who came to rule an empire. Just amazing and somewhat terrifying to watch how he grew. When I was in Paris in 2002, I had the chance to visit his tomb. Enchanting and beautiful. But, despite my interest in him, I hadn't much explored his love life. I was thrilled for the chance to read this book, having such a love of France. But even more so to read about Josephine who I knew so little about. I was transfixed. (And yes, it is fiction, but the author did so much research, the story literally leaps from the page and plays realistically before your eyes.)
Ms. Webb endears us to Rose (aka Josephine) at a young age, where already her heart is tormented by a great loss and lack of affection from her father. It would seem that the majority of men in her life (except for her son), would disappoint her. I ached for her. Physically smashed the book in hopes of smashing some of these men's heads. (Not to mention, Napoleon's family--I loathed them in this book!)
With great loss comes the prospect of a new life. Thrust into Paris, from her home in Martinique, with no one she's familiar with, accept for her maid, Rose is left to find who she is and make her way in place that is wholly foreign from what she's used to. Married to a man (her first husband Alexandre de Beauharnais) who doesn't deserve her, Rose endures turmoil again and again, but within the strife of her personal life also comes many triumphs. Two beautiful children, friendships, a place in society, and the ability to carry on. Rose is one tough chick. A woman to be admired, and she is admired by so many within the realm--the very reason that she eventually captured the heart of Napoleon. The reason that he and she both rose to power becoming the Emperor and Empress of France and Europe.
The writing in Becoming Josephine is vivid and at times heart-wrenching. When Rose is imprisoned, I felt her pain. I smelled the wretched walls, saw the hacked bodies. It was disturbing and eye-opening. A first-hand view of la Terreur.
Weaved with the very real history, is the life and growth of a timid island girl, into a powerful, intelligent, charismatic woman who spends nearly the entirety of her life in the limelight. A true heroine, and one I wish I'd known more about well before now. She truly blossomed from a Rose to a Josephine.
After finishing the book, I immediately hit the internet to find out what had happened to her--because I was fuming! Despite the devastating turn of events, her legacy was ever lasting. And I'll never forget her.
If you choose to pick up only one book this year, make it Becoming Josephine, you'll not be disappointed.About the Author
Heather Webb grew up a military brat and naturally became obsessed with travel, culture, and languages. She put her degrees to good use teaching high school French for nearly a decade before turning to full time novel writing and freelance editing.
When not writing, Heather flexes her foodie skills or looks for excuses to head to the other side of the world. She loves to chitchat on Twitter or Skype with new reader friends or writers (@msheatherwebb) or via her blog at: www.HeatherWebb.net. Stop on by!
January 31, 2014
Review of Time-Travel Romance, HANDS OF TIME by Irina Shapiro (GIVEAWAY!)
I've had the pleasure of reading the first book in Irina Shapiro's new time-travel series, THE HANDS OF TIME, and I'd like to share my review with you all! Leave a comment for your chance to win a Kindle copy!
About The Hands of TimePublication Date: December 7, 2011
Merlin Press
eBook
ASIN: B006JRO9WS
When a young American woman vanishes without a trace from a quaint fishing village on the coast of England only one person knows the truth, but he remains silent, allowing the authorities to search for her in vain, safe in the knowledge that she will never be found. As Valerie’s bereft sister returns home alone, she struggles to understand what happened and come to terms with her terrible loss when she suddenly stumbles upon a clue that might finally shed some light on her sister’s disappearance.
Meanwhile, Valerie Crane finds herself transported to the year 1605. Terrified and confused she turns for help to the Whitfield brothers, who take her in and offer her a home despite their misgivings about her origins. Both Alexander and Finlay Whitfield fall in love with the mysterious woman who shows up on their doorstep, creating a love triangle that threatens to consume them all. Valerie must make her choice, deciding between the brother who will lead her down the path of destruction or one who will give her the love she couldn’t find in her own time.
My ReviewTHE HANDS OF TIME was a fun, quick read. We're first introduced to Valerie who is going through a seriously rough patch in life, with her cheating husband parading around his impregnated girlfriend after they were not able to conceive a child. ROUGH! I was actually excited for her to travel to a different time and place, just to be away from that mess.
I liked the way in which she traveled back through time. As a writer/reader of time-travels, its nice to see a fresh new take on how the characters can make time leaps. Once Valerie arrived in 1605, however, I found she didn't really seem too surprised, or really to care all that much. Which could have been a side affect of the severe psychological trauma she'd been through--maybe she WANTED to be there. But it wasn't the only case in which I felt I needed just a tad more insight. I would have liked to get deeper into the characters' heads. I found myself questioning their motivation a lot of the time, and wishing I could see what they were thinking.
After finding herself in 1605, Val ends up being taken in by two brothers--Alec and Finlay. They've had a rough time of it too, between their religion not being accepted and the majority of their family dying of illness. They take her in easily, perhaps a bit too easily, but its understood that they are lonely. There is a bit of a love triangle that goes on in this story. My fav was Alec, though at first she ends up with Finlay.
I did enjoy getting to see that various viewpoints of the other characters. With a series this large, I think that is important, especially when you have so many key players. It was great we could see what Louisa (Val's sister) was doing back in present day. The only oddity was that Valerie is in first person and the rest are in 3rd person, sometimes with omniscient narrative prose. BUT, despite it being odd, I liked it because it gave Valerie ownership over the series. This is really her story, even though we get to see inside the heads of the other characters.
Loved the tie-in of Fawkes and the Gunpowder Plot--always fun to see real events in books, and how the characters react to them. Lots of political/religious unrest during that time period, and I felt that Ms. Shapiro did play that out well.
Lots of twists and turns, that definitely had me on the edge of my seat. Can't say too much more, or else I'll give it away, and I'm not into spoilers!
I wanted to touch briefly on something that I happened to see on an Amazon thread regarding this book--and that was the history within the book. Normally, I refrain from commenting on these types of things, but I thought it necessary to explain here, because it is giving the book a bad rap. The reviewer was irritated, and brought forth irritation in others, because of the mention of Virginia and shipping exports, etc... from the colonies. The reviewer states that this is impossible given that Jamestown wasn't founded until 1607--true it wasn't. BUT, there were actually people living in VA before 1607. In fact, Sir Walter Raleigh named the area Virginia after Queen Elizabeth in 1584 when he traveled there. Yes, there were ups and downs, and abandoned at times, but that doesn't mean it was non-existent. Simply because it wasn't officially colonized until 1607 doesn't mean that the history within this book is false. Additionally, on the orders of King James in 1603 , the "colonies" were exporting from there to England--timber being one of those exports (which the heroes in this series use as their business). We could argue the use of the term plantation, which brings to mind sprawling mansions with white columns, fields of crops and slaves, but in fact, the word plantation simply means large farm--a word that was derived in the 15th century.
I am definitely not an expert in this area, but I wanted to point this out, since some readers were raising their pitchforks over the history. I'd also like to point out this: when reading fiction, we must be able to suspend belief. It is fiction--a tale, an escape, a fantasy. This is a time-travel after all, if we can believe that time travel is possible, why is it so hard to believe that people were shipping timber from the Americas?
Now, the one thing I did find unbelievable was that a doctor in the 17th century could hear a baby's heartbeat with a stethoscope at only 6 weeks of pregnancy... That is unlikely, considering most women don't hear it with a doppler until about 12 wks on average. But, like I said, its fiction! And it didn't detract from the story.
If you're interested in a fast, light read, give this book a look. It's a nice fantastical, sensual read for a day you're snowed in. A little trip through time to Renaissance England. Do be aware that is part of an ongoing series, so all loose ends will not be tied up at the end. I'm looking forward to reading the rest of the books in the series.
Now, I need to go find an old French clock :)
Purchase the BookAmazon: http://www.amazon.com/The-Hands-Time-Book-ebook/dp/B006JRO9WS
About the AuthorIrina Shapiro was born in Moscow, Russia, where she lived until she was eleven. In 1982 her family emigrated to the United States and settled in New York. Due to her love of reading, Irina was able to pick up English very quickly, and was an honor student throughout her school career.
After graduating from Bernard M. Baruch College in 1992 with a Bachelor’s degree in International Business, Irina worked in advertising for two years before shifting her focus to Import/Export. She worked her way up to the position of Import Manager in a large textile house before leaving the work force in 2007 to focus on her autistic son.
It wasn’t until Irina had been at home for some time that she began to write. Eventually the characters began to take on a life of their own and have conversations in her head, and once she started writing her musings down the stories came easily enough. Irina incorporated her love of history and travel into her writing to create a rich and detailed background for the characters. Since then Irina has written eight novels. She is currently working on book five of The Hands of Time Series.
Irina Shapiro lives in New Jersey with her husband and two children.
For more information, please visit www.irinashapiro.com. You can also follow her on Facebook and Twitter.
Interview with Jeannie Ruesch Author of CLOAKED IN DANGER (Giveaway!!!)
Happy Friday to you all! If you're looking for a great read for this weekend, check out Jeannie's book CLOAKED IN DANGER, which I reviewed yesterday. LOVED IT!
Now, I'd love to introduce you to Jeannie Ruesch! An amazing, historical romance author, and my friend. Her and I met years ago when we worked on a blog together--MAMAWRITERS. We had a blast and I'm so pleased for you to meet her and get to know her work.
***GIVEAWAY ALERT!!! Leave a COMMENT and SHARE this blog if you can, for your chance to win an e-copy of CLOAKED IN DANGER!***
1. What do you love most about writing historical romantic suspense?Hi Eliza! Thanks for hanging out with me today! :) Wow, where to start with this answer? All three elements, historical, romance and suspense, I truly love and enjoy writing. I love delving into historical times and finding out how people then are similar and different from us. I love the hope that romance provides, the way that a good love story can fill us with joy. And I admit to being fascinated by the darkness, the shadows, the blurring of lines between right and wrong and why people do what they do. Combine the three, and I’m in heaven. :)
2. Do you plan to write in other genres?
Suspense in any time period fascinates me, so I might be included to try contemporary suspense. But I love history and I love bringing the world of today's romantic suspense into historical settings, so I'll probably stick with that for a while. After the Willoughby siblings have had their say, the next series I'm planning will have books set in multiple eras, all connected by one town full of tragedy, mystery and secrets. I can't wait to dig into that!
3. I loved Something About Her and Cloaked in Danger was icing on the cake! Do you have more books planned for the series?
Yes, two more planned. Lily and Cordelia have staked their claim on having their own books, and I'm working on those now. Lily's book is set 3 years after Cloaked in Danger ends, and suffice it to say that her life has not turned out as planned and she's ready to fight for the life she wants. Cordelia hasn't exactly been a typical heroine, she's somewhat bratty, and I'm enjoying delving into the whys and hows of who she is and what she really wants out of life.
4. What was the most interesting fact you found while researching your book?
Aria's father is an antiquarian (archeologist), and when I was trying to decide what treasure he was on the hunt for, I discovered that much of Cleopatra's treasures were destroyed after her death. Octavian ordered all likenesses destroyed — it was as if he wanted to wipe her off the map. I love the irony in that. He wanted her to fade into history, and in fact, she became one of the most famous, honored women of all time. Just makes you want to stick out your tongue and say, "So there!" to him.
But it left the door open for Gideon Whitney to be searching for something that, at that time, had not been discovered -- any artifacts of Cleopatra. It was fun to imagine what her jewelry must have looked like, what it would have felt like.
5. Did you come across anything in your research unintentionally that you HAD to put in your book because it was so fascinating?
I like finding small details that characters can interact with, something of the times that would be considered like how we see Coca Cola cans in people's hands today. One of the scenes in my book is set in Vauxhall Gardens, and when I was researching the layout of the gardens, I read about the paintings that decorated the supper boxes. I though, here is a perfect detail that my characters can interact with. Something that was normal in the time period, taken for granted, an every day item to anyone who visited the Gardens regularly. In the scene, my heroine is dealing with a friend/suitor and I thought showing their opinions about the paintings was a great way to illustrate aspects of their relationship. The painting in question was See Saw by Frances Hayman (below).
6. What do you think is an essential character trait to have in a hero/heroine?
Flaws. I think the most fascinating characters are the ones who don't always know the right thing, do the right thing. They need to be human, and we all have our strengths and weaknesses. And the very nature of a novel means that we're going to test the heck out of those strengths and weaknesses, so they'd better appear real and leap from the page. For the romance aspect of things, it's not about finding the "perfect" person, it's about finding the perfect person for YOU. And a book is no different. Our flaws and best features match up with our significant others, and hopefully compliment and balance each other. I hope that I did a good enough job in showing that Aria and Adam do balance each other.
7. The history/setting in your books are more like a secondary character, when did you first fall in love with historical fiction?
One of the first experiences I had with historical fiction was in reading Bertrice Small's book Beloved about Zenobia, Queen of Palmyra. I was fascinated and I remember thinking, how much of this if fact and how much is fiction? So I went searching to find out and I was enthralled to learn that Zenobia was a historical figure, who led a revolt against the Roman Empire and was delivered to Aurelius in golden chains. The weaving of the history and the love story Small created was so amazing to me, and I was hooked.
8. Is there anything you'd like to share with or ask readers?
I'd love to give my thanks to our historical romance readers out there! There are so many fascinating authors with great stories to tell (including Eliza's!) and we truly appreciate you and your love of the genre.
About Cloaked in DangerPublication Date: January 27, 2014Carina Press
eBook
ASIN: B00F93X7ZI
Aria Whitney has little in common with the delicate ladies of London society. Her famous father made his fortune hunting archaeological treasures, and her rustic upbringing has left her ill prepared for a life of parties and frippery. But when Gideon Whitney goes missing in Egypt, Aria must embrace the unknown. Armed with only the short list of highborn men who’d backed her father’s venture, she poses as a woman looking for a husband. She doesn’t intend to find one.
Adam Willoughby, Earl of Merewood, finds London’s strangest new debutante fascinating, but when he catches her investigating his family’s secrets, he threatens to ruin her reputation. He doesn’t intend to enjoy it so much.
When their lustful indiscretion is discovered, Adam finds that he regrets nothing. But now, as Aria’s father’s enemy draws near, Adam must convince his betrothed that she can trust him with her own secrets…before it’s too late.
Praise for Cloaked in Danger
“Cloaked in Danger has all the elements readers crave— larger-than-life characters, a vivid and believable setting, heart-pounding romance and just the right amount of mystery. Don’t miss it! It kept me reading deep into the night.” — New York Times Bestselling Author Brenda Novak
“In ‘Cloaked in Danger’ Jeannie Ruesch has crafted a taut, emotional thrill-ride through the streets of Regency London. Archaeological adventure and drawing room intrigue are combined in a story that will keep you reading late into the night. Jeannie Ruesch is an author to watch.” — RITA Award Nominated Author Elizabeth Essex
Purchase the BookAmazon
Barnes & Noble
About the AuthorJeannie Ruesch wrote her first story at the age of the six, prompting her to give up an illustrious, hours-long ambition of becoming a Dallas Cowboy Cheerleader and declare that writing was her destiny. That journey to destiny took a few detours along the way, including a career in marketing and design.Her first novel, a fairy-tale like historical romance, was published in 2009, but the darker side of life had always captivated her. So after a dinner conversation with friends about the best way to hide a dead body, she knew she had to find a way to incorporate suspense into her writing. (The legal outlet for her fascination.) Today, she continues writing what she loves to read – stories of history, romance and suspense. She lives in Northern California with her husband, their son and an 80 pound lapdog lab named Cooper.She is also the creator of the WIP Notebook, a writer’s tool to help stay organized while you write, which you can find at her website. You can also follow her on Facebook,Twitter, Goodreads and Pinterest.
January 30, 2014
Historical Romance Review: Cloaked in Danger by Jeannie Ruesch
I have had the incredible pleasure of reading Jeannie Ruesch's new book, CLOAKED IN DANGER. Trust me when I say I was cloaked in excitement :)
About Cloaked in Danger
Publication Date: January 27, 2014Carina Press
eBook
ASIN: B00F93X7ZI
Aria Whitney has little in common with the delicate ladies of London society. Her famous father made his fortune hunting archaeological treasures, and her rustic upbringing has left her ill prepared for a life of parties and frippery. But when Gideon Whitney goes missing in Egypt, Aria must embrace the unknown. Armed with only the short list of highborn men who’d backed her father’s venture, she poses as a woman looking for a husband. She doesn’t intend to find one.
Adam Willoughby, Earl of Merewood, finds London’s strangest new debutante fascinating, but when he catches her investigating his family’s secrets, he threatens to ruin her reputation. He doesn’t intend to enjoy it so much.
When their lustful indiscretion is discovered, Adam finds that he regrets nothing. But now, as Aria’s father’s enemy draws near, Adam must convince his betrothed that she can trust him with her own secrets…before it’s too late.
Praise for Cloaked in Danger
“Cloaked in Danger has all the elements readers crave— larger-than-life characters, a vivid and believable setting, heart-pounding romance and just the right amount of mystery. Don’t miss it! It kept me reading deep into the night.” — New York Times Bestselling Author Brenda Novak
“In ‘Cloaked in Danger’ Jeannie Ruesch has crafted a taut, emotional thrill-ride through the streets of Regency London. Archaeological adventure and drawing room intrigue are combined in a story that will keep you reading late into the night. Jeannie Ruesch is an author to watch.” — RITA Award Nominated Author Elizabeth Essex
My ReviewRight from the very start, Ms. Ruesch had me hooked. The book opens with our heroine, Aria (LOVE HER NAME!) rifling through someone's things. We catch her motivation, her desperation, and see her goal. By page two we're rooting for her, and by the end of chapter one--enter Adam our hero (devastatingly charismatic!)--we're intrigued with both mystery, scandal and passion. This is not a book you can read over the course of days, well, not for me anyway! I couldn't stop once I started, the need for sleep was the only thing that kept me putting the book down.
Not your typical Regency, which I enjoyed. Aria Whitney is not your usual heroine--she's not nobleborn, and she REALLY doesn't care about society--so much so in fact, I was cringing at how the people would shun her for her latest escapade, but having said that, I was cheering her on every step of the way. I loved that she turned the ton on its ear, and I love that Adam loved that about her.
Together, they embarked on a two-fold adventure, a quest to solve the mystery surrounding her father's disappearance, but also to discover who each other was and to explore a love that was based firstly off a steamy attraction.
The writing is superb, fast-paced, witty, exciting and uplifting. Aria is a heroine we'd all love to be, and Adam is a hero we can definitely fall in love with. Coupled with the romance and the suspense is the history, which I'm a sucker for any day.
Well done, Ms. Ruesch! I look forward to many more books by you.
Stay tuned tomorrow for my interview with the author AND a giveaway of CLOAKED IN DANGER!
Purchase the BookAmazon
Barnes & Noble
Google
About the AuthorJeannie Ruesch wrote her first story at the age of the six, prompting her to give up an illustrious, hours-long ambition of becoming a Dallas Cowboy Cheerleader and declare that writing was her destiny. That journey to destiny took a few detours along the way, including a career in marketing and design.Her first novel, a fairy-tale like historical romance, was published in 2009, but the darker side of life had always captivated her. So after a dinner conversation with friends about the best way to hide a dead body, she knew she had to find a way to incorporate suspense into her writing. (The legal outlet for her fascination.) Today, she continues writing what she loves to read – stories of history, romance and suspense. She lives in Northern California with her husband, their son and an 80 pound lapdog lab named Cooper.She is also the creator of the WIP Notebook, a writer’s tool to help stay organized while you write, which you can find at her website. You can also follow her on Facebook,Twitter, Goodreads and Pinterest.
About Cloaked in DangerPublication Date: January 27, 2014Carina Press
eBook
ASIN: B00F93X7ZI
Aria Whitney has little in common with the delicate ladies of London society. Her famous father made his fortune hunting archaeological treasures, and her rustic upbringing has left her ill prepared for a life of parties and frippery. But when Gideon Whitney goes missing in Egypt, Aria must embrace the unknown. Armed with only the short list of highborn men who’d backed her father’s venture, she poses as a woman looking for a husband. She doesn’t intend to find one.
Adam Willoughby, Earl of Merewood, finds London’s strangest new debutante fascinating, but when he catches her investigating his family’s secrets, he threatens to ruin her reputation. He doesn’t intend to enjoy it so much.
When their lustful indiscretion is discovered, Adam finds that he regrets nothing. But now, as Aria’s father’s enemy draws near, Adam must convince his betrothed that she can trust him with her own secrets…before it’s too late.
Praise for Cloaked in Danger
“Cloaked in Danger has all the elements readers crave— larger-than-life characters, a vivid and believable setting, heart-pounding romance and just the right amount of mystery. Don’t miss it! It kept me reading deep into the night.” — New York Times Bestselling Author Brenda Novak
“In ‘Cloaked in Danger’ Jeannie Ruesch has crafted a taut, emotional thrill-ride through the streets of Regency London. Archaeological adventure and drawing room intrigue are combined in a story that will keep you reading late into the night. Jeannie Ruesch is an author to watch.” — RITA Award Nominated Author Elizabeth Essex
My ReviewRight from the very start, Ms. Ruesch had me hooked. The book opens with our heroine, Aria (LOVE HER NAME!) rifling through someone's things. We catch her motivation, her desperation, and see her goal. By page two we're rooting for her, and by the end of chapter one--enter Adam our hero (devastatingly charismatic!)--we're intrigued with both mystery, scandal and passion. This is not a book you can read over the course of days, well, not for me anyway! I couldn't stop once I started, the need for sleep was the only thing that kept me putting the book down.
Not your typical Regency, which I enjoyed. Aria Whitney is not your usual heroine--she's not nobleborn, and she REALLY doesn't care about society--so much so in fact, I was cringing at how the people would shun her for her latest escapade, but having said that, I was cheering her on every step of the way. I loved that she turned the ton on its ear, and I love that Adam loved that about her.
Together, they embarked on a two-fold adventure, a quest to solve the mystery surrounding her father's disappearance, but also to discover who each other was and to explore a love that was based firstly off a steamy attraction.
The writing is superb, fast-paced, witty, exciting and uplifting. Aria is a heroine we'd all love to be, and Adam is a hero we can definitely fall in love with. Coupled with the romance and the suspense is the history, which I'm a sucker for any day.
Well done, Ms. Ruesch! I look forward to many more books by you.
Stay tuned tomorrow for my interview with the author AND a giveaway of CLOAKED IN DANGER!
Purchase the BookAmazon
Barnes & Noble
About the AuthorJeannie Ruesch wrote her first story at the age of the six, prompting her to give up an illustrious, hours-long ambition of becoming a Dallas Cowboy Cheerleader and declare that writing was her destiny. That journey to destiny took a few detours along the way, including a career in marketing and design.Her first novel, a fairy-tale like historical romance, was published in 2009, but the darker side of life had always captivated her. So after a dinner conversation with friends about the best way to hide a dead body, she knew she had to find a way to incorporate suspense into her writing. (The legal outlet for her fascination.) Today, she continues writing what she loves to read – stories of history, romance and suspense. She lives in Northern California with her husband, their son and an 80 pound lapdog lab named Cooper.She is also the creator of the WIP Notebook, a writer’s tool to help stay organized while you write, which you can find at her website. You can also follow her on Facebook,Twitter, Goodreads and Pinterest.
January 28, 2014
You're Invited! Celebarte Historical Fiction on 1/30!
On January 30th, from 12pm EST to 10pm EST, an impressive roster of historical fiction authors and bloggers are hosting a Facebook party in honor of historical fiction, the 2,023rd anniversary of the Ara Pacis, and the release of Stephanie Dray's newest book, Daughters of the Nile: A novel of Cleopatra's Daughter. Readers can win free books, lunch at the next Historical Novel Society meeting, swag, gift cards, and other prizes from some of the hottest authors of the genre. Please join us, and RSVP!
January 27, 2014
Cloaked in Danger Release Party -- Tonight!
Happy Monday everyone :)
Today, myself and several other amazing authors will be participating in Jeannie Ruesch's release party! So excited for this book--Cloaked in Danger!
Check it out!
What: Jeannie Ruesch's Facebook Launch Party for Cloaked in Danger
Where: https://www.facebook.com/events/479465215499279
When: Monday, January 27th 3:00 - 7:00pm PST
About Cloaked in Danger
Publication Date: January 27, 2014
Carina Press
eBook
ASIN: B00F93X7ZI
Aria Whitney has little in common with the delicate ladies of London society. Her famous father made his fortune hunting archaeological treasures, and her rustic upbringing has left her ill prepared for a life of parties and frippery. But when Gideon Whitney goes missing in Egypt, Aria must embrace the unknown. Armed with only the short list of highborn men who’d backed her father’s venture, she poses as a woman looking for a husband. She doesn’t intend to find one.
Adam Willoughby, Earl of Merewood, finds London’s strangest new debutante fascinating, but when he catches her investigating his family’s secrets, he threatens to ruin her reputation. He doesn’t intend to enjoy it so much.
When their lustful indiscretion is discovered, Adam finds that he regrets nothing. But now, as Aria’s father’s enemy draws near, Adam must convince his betrothed that she can trust him with her own secrets…before it’s too late.
About Jeannie Ruesch
Jeannie Ruesch wrote her first story at the age of the six, prompting her to give up an illustrious, hours-long ambition of becoming a Dallas Cowboy
Cheerleader and declare that writing was her destiny. That journey to destiny took a few detours along the way, including a career in marketing and
design.
Her first novel, a fairy-tale like historical romance, was published in 2009, but the darker side of life had always captivated her. So after a dinner
conversation with friends about the best way to hide a dead body, she knew she had to find a way to incorporate suspense into her writing. (The legal
outlet for her fascination.) Today, she continues writing what she loves to read – stories of history, romance and suspense. She lives in Northern
California with her husband, their son and an 80 pound lapdog lab named Cooper.
She is also the creator of the WIP Notebook, a writer’s tool to help stay organized while you write, which you can find at her website. You can also follow her on Facebook, Twitter, Goodreads and Pinterest.
January 14, 2014
Highland Cows vs. Other Cows
When I went to Ireland a decade ago, we had to pull over onto the side of the road because a herd of massive, black and white cows were coming down the road. I'd never seen cows so huge before! I was amazed then with the differences between American cows and Irish cows. Subsequently, did you know that dairy cows are black and white, or brown and white? (Holsteins specifically are the white/blacks.) Now, I never did find out exactly why the Irish cows looked so much larger, but I'm guessing, looking back at pictures, that it might have had something to do with sitting in a tiny car :)
Now onto the Highland cattle! I'd seen pictures before and always wondered about their breed. Highland cows are shaggy, with these long, thick coats. I finally got to see some cows in person when I went to Scotland--the Highlands specifically. They are beautiful.
Funny story... My friend and I stopped at a castle ruins. We parked near a fence and when we got out of the car, we heard these great snorting and scary mooing sounds. Glancing up, we saw four Highland cows barreling toward us, horns down. I was certain they'd come tearing through the flimsy fence to gore us. So I ran. Screaming. Hilarious really... My friend called me back over. The cows had stopped at the fence and looked up at us docilely. I'm guessing they'd just been excited, and maybe were looking for some treats. My dad has a cattle farm (beautiful blacks and browns) and they run over to the fence for us to give them treats all the time.
But these thick, shaggy coats--what's the deal? Why do Highland cows look so different?
The answer is quite simple. Highland cattle were bred to withstand harsh weather -- heavy rains, wind, freezing temperatures, snow. Their thick coats protect them, keep them warm.
Hope you all are staying warm this winter season!
Cheers,Eliza
Hey, check it out! I have THREE new books out!
Something to entertain you this post-holiday season... A KILTED CHRISTMAS WISH, something to keep you warm any night of the year -- THE HIGHLANDER'S SIN. And if you're looking for steaming HAWT check out the 3rd and final installment in the Highland Bound trilogy -- DARK SIDE OF THE LAIRD.
Down on her luck with men, Darla Strider wonders if she’ll ever meet her own kilted hero. Considering she lives in present day New York City, the likelihood of that happening is nil. She’s certain only a Christmas wish could make her dreams come true. Until the day Aaron Sutherland walks into her café, and changes her whole world.
Leaving his pain in Scotland for life in the States, the last thing Aaron has in mind is hooking up with a city girl. But one look at Darla and she’s got him singing All I Want for Christmas is You.
READ IT! Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunesAvailable as an ebook only
He stole her away… But she set him free…
They called him The Priest. Maybe because of his billowing black robes and the steel crucifix that hung around his neck. Or perhaps it was because those who met him were compelled to pray. But Duncan Mackay was anything but a saint. He was a sinner—a paid mercenary. Until he met her, and she made him want to change his ways.
Lady Heather Sutherland, has never been compelled to follow rules. And this time, she’s gone too far. Following in the footsteps of her brothers and cousins, she chooses to join the fight for Scottish freedom—and gets herself abducted by a handsome, rogue warrior, whose touch is sweet sin.
Duncan’s duty was clear—steal Heather away from Dunrobin Castle. What he didn’t expect, was to be charmed by her spirit and rocked by her fiery kiss. Now, he doesn’t want deliver her to those who hired him, instead he wants to keep her all to himself.
READ IT! Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunesAvailable in print, ebook and audio
Bound by passion. Freed by love.
When the damaged and tormented Emma first meets the equally broken Logan, they embark on a torrid, emotionally provocative affair that irrevocably changed their lives. Emma has sacrificed her entire being and just when she thinks Logan is willing to do the same, he holds back. Reluctant for their love to be a thing of shadows, Emma issues an ultimatum: commit or say goodbye. Fearful of losing her, Logan agrees.
In order to keep her, he must gain permission to marry from the one man he’s sought to avoid: his brother, the King. His appeal is denied and instead, Logan is seized and sent to the dungeon with no hope for escape. While in Hell, Logan’s dark past haunts him, threatening to consume him. He must fight to remain the man he’s become with Emma by his side and relinquish the control he’s held onto for a lifetime.
Fearing her lover is dead, Emma decides once and for all she must leave history where it belongs and return to the present. But when she tries once again to break the bonds of time, she is struck down. Emma must choose her destiny. Must answer the cries her body makes in the dark for her laird. They’ve always been strongest when together, but now Emma must find the courage on her own to see her fate fulfilled—and Logan returned to her.
READ IT! Amazon / Barnes and Noble
Now onto the Highland cattle! I'd seen pictures before and always wondered about their breed. Highland cows are shaggy, with these long, thick coats. I finally got to see some cows in person when I went to Scotland--the Highlands specifically. They are beautiful.
Funny story... My friend and I stopped at a castle ruins. We parked near a fence and when we got out of the car, we heard these great snorting and scary mooing sounds. Glancing up, we saw four Highland cows barreling toward us, horns down. I was certain they'd come tearing through the flimsy fence to gore us. So I ran. Screaming. Hilarious really... My friend called me back over. The cows had stopped at the fence and looked up at us docilely. I'm guessing they'd just been excited, and maybe were looking for some treats. My dad has a cattle farm (beautiful blacks and browns) and they run over to the fence for us to give them treats all the time.
But these thick, shaggy coats--what's the deal? Why do Highland cows look so different?
The answer is quite simple. Highland cattle were bred to withstand harsh weather -- heavy rains, wind, freezing temperatures, snow. Their thick coats protect them, keep them warm.
Hope you all are staying warm this winter season!
Cheers,Eliza
Hey, check it out! I have THREE new books out!
Something to entertain you this post-holiday season... A KILTED CHRISTMAS WISH, something to keep you warm any night of the year -- THE HIGHLANDER'S SIN. And if you're looking for steaming HAWT check out the 3rd and final installment in the Highland Bound trilogy -- DARK SIDE OF THE LAIRD.
Down on her luck with men, Darla Strider wonders if she’ll ever meet her own kilted hero. Considering she lives in present day New York City, the likelihood of that happening is nil. She’s certain only a Christmas wish could make her dreams come true. Until the day Aaron Sutherland walks into her café, and changes her whole world.
Leaving his pain in Scotland for life in the States, the last thing Aaron has in mind is hooking up with a city girl. But one look at Darla and she’s got him singing All I Want for Christmas is You.
READ IT! Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunesAvailable as an ebook only
He stole her away… But she set him free…They called him The Priest. Maybe because of his billowing black robes and the steel crucifix that hung around his neck. Or perhaps it was because those who met him were compelled to pray. But Duncan Mackay was anything but a saint. He was a sinner—a paid mercenary. Until he met her, and she made him want to change his ways.
Lady Heather Sutherland, has never been compelled to follow rules. And this time, she’s gone too far. Following in the footsteps of her brothers and cousins, she chooses to join the fight for Scottish freedom—and gets herself abducted by a handsome, rogue warrior, whose touch is sweet sin.
Duncan’s duty was clear—steal Heather away from Dunrobin Castle. What he didn’t expect, was to be charmed by her spirit and rocked by her fiery kiss. Now, he doesn’t want deliver her to those who hired him, instead he wants to keep her all to himself.
READ IT! Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunesAvailable in print, ebook and audio
Bound by passion. Freed by love.
When the damaged and tormented Emma first meets the equally broken Logan, they embark on a torrid, emotionally provocative affair that irrevocably changed their lives. Emma has sacrificed her entire being and just when she thinks Logan is willing to do the same, he holds back. Reluctant for their love to be a thing of shadows, Emma issues an ultimatum: commit or say goodbye. Fearful of losing her, Logan agrees.
In order to keep her, he must gain permission to marry from the one man he’s sought to avoid: his brother, the King. His appeal is denied and instead, Logan is seized and sent to the dungeon with no hope for escape. While in Hell, Logan’s dark past haunts him, threatening to consume him. He must fight to remain the man he’s become with Emma by his side and relinquish the control he’s held onto for a lifetime.
Fearing her lover is dead, Emma decides once and for all she must leave history where it belongs and return to the present. But when she tries once again to break the bonds of time, she is struck down. Emma must choose her destiny. Must answer the cries her body makes in the dark for her laird. They’ve always been strongest when together, but now Emma must find the courage on her own to see her fate fulfilled—and Logan returned to her.
READ IT! Amazon / Barnes and Noble
December 30, 2013
The Earl's Christmas Colt by Rebecca Thomas -- Reviewed by Kathleen Bittner Roth
Released today! 12/30/13The Earl’s Christmas ColtBy Rebecca Thomas
Lady Arabella Sutton is stunned to learn her brother has betrothed her to a stranger despite his promises for a season in London. Although she is the first to admit no man would suit, since she’s more interested in horses than marriage, the last thing she wants is to become a brood mare to a stuffy old earl. Facing a future she cannot abide, she takes an impetuous ride to clear her head and ends up tending her injured mare instead. Oliver Westwyck, the Earl of Marsdale, can’t believe his luck when he stops at an inn the night before he’s to meet his fiancée. In the stable, while tending the colt he intends to give to his future wife, he happens upon her—rain-drenched but beautiful. She assumes he’s a stable hand, a fine joke he means to end...until Lady Arabella declares all noblemen are egotistical, conceited, and arrogant. How can he reveal his true identity before he’s managed to change her mind and win her heart?
Reviewed by Kathleen Bittner Roth
Have you ever read a Reader’s Digest condensed version of a book and wondered what the original story must be like since nothing seemed to be missing? Curiosity piqued, you purchase the original, read it, and are even more stymied because you cannot figure out what the devil had been cut! Which brings me to entertaining, well-written short stories.
If you’re someone who enjoys short stories and novellas, The Earl’s Christmas Colt is for you. Set in Sussex County, England in December, 1819, Author Rebecca Thomas has managed to pack everything into a wonderful little historical that is sure to please.
I love horses, so that got my attention, and the author does a wonderful job of bringing the beasts alive in her pages. I prefer strong but flawed characters, and Thomas gives us that in spades. Lady Arabella’s brother means well, but he’s not the best when it comes to communication. Arabella has character, wit and strong principles that in turn manage to get her into a bit of a fix. Then there’s Westwyck, the Earl of Marsdale, who, on his way to wed Arabella, manages to dig a deep hole for himself without even trying.
Lovely prose, clear, concise writing without a wasted word. Thomas writes a delightful story. Enjoy.
December 17, 2013
Christmas Traditions in Imperial Russia by Ally Broadfield
Welcome to History Undressed, guest blogger, Ally Broadfield! She's here today to spread some Christmas cheer and talk to us a bit about Christmas traditions in Russia. Enjoy!
Christmas Traditions in Imperial Russiaby Ally Broadfield
Christmas in Imperial Russia was celebrated with a blend of traditions from Russia’s Christian and pre-Christian past. On Christmas Eve it was customary for groups of people masquerading as manger animals to travel from house to house performing and singing carols known as kolyadki. Somekolyadki were pastoral carols to the baby Jesus, while others were homages to the ancient solar goddess Kolyada, who brought the lengthening days of sunlight through the winter. In return for their songs, the singers were offered food and coins before moving on to the next home. There is a passage in Leo Tolstoy’s War and Peace describing this custom, known as mumming. Everyone participated in the mumming. In the 17th century, the tsar himself, followed by his boyars and courtiers and led by drummers, would travel by sleigh from house to house in Moscow to sing for the owners. Peter the Great was also known to congratulate his friends in this manner, but he kept a list of participants and those who did not join were punished.
Happy Christmas (pre-1917 Russian postcard)Religious observances surrounding Christmas also flourished in Imperial Russia. Though the foods and customs surrounding the observance of Christmas differed from village to village and family to family, certain aspects remained the same. Christmas Eve was the last day of the six week Christmas fast, and for the devout, ancient custom dictated that no one eat until the first star shone in the sky. Hay was spread on the table and covered with a white cloth in imitation of the manger. Dinner began with a prayer for the New Year and a special porridge called kutya. The head of the household would throw a spoonful outside to encourage Grandfather Frost to spare the crops, then a spoonful was thrown up on the ceiling. The grains that stuck foretold the number of bees there would be in summer to ensure a plentiful honey harvest. Lastly, upon rising from the table, everyone left some kutya in their bowls for their departed relatives.
After the meal it was time to attend the Christmas Mass. On Christmas day, it was customary for everyone to dress in their finest clothes and go visiting. Tables were spread in a traditional manner with a variety of nuts and fruits, as well as several types of special gingerbread cookies. The two-week feast known as Russian Christmastide, or Svyatki, was celebrated after the orthodox Christmas on January 7th through Epiphany on January 19th. Activities during this period were more closely associated with pagan traditions and included singing, dancing, carnivals and fortune telling.
After the 1917 Revolution, Christmas was banned throughout Russia along with other religious celebrations. It wasn’t until 75 years later, in 1992, that the holiday was once again openly observed.
Bibliography: Massie, Suzanne. The Land of the Firebird: The Beauty of Old Russia. New York: Simon & Schuster, Inc., 1980.
Ally Broadfield lives in Texas and is convinced her house is shrinking, possibly because she shares it with three kids, five dogs, two cats, a rabbit, and several reptiles. Oh, and her husband. She likes to curse in Russian and spends most of her spare time letting dogs in and out of the house and shuttling kids around. She writes historical romance and middle grade/young adult fantasy. Her first book, Just a Kiss, is coming from Entangled Publishing in January 2014.You can find Ally on her website, Facebook, and Twitter (though she makes no claims of using any of them properly).
Christmas Traditions in Imperial Russiaby Ally Broadfield
Christmas in Imperial Russia was celebrated with a blend of traditions from Russia’s Christian and pre-Christian past. On Christmas Eve it was customary for groups of people masquerading as manger animals to travel from house to house performing and singing carols known as kolyadki. Somekolyadki were pastoral carols to the baby Jesus, while others were homages to the ancient solar goddess Kolyada, who brought the lengthening days of sunlight through the winter. In return for their songs, the singers were offered food and coins before moving on to the next home. There is a passage in Leo Tolstoy’s War and Peace describing this custom, known as mumming. Everyone participated in the mumming. In the 17th century, the tsar himself, followed by his boyars and courtiers and led by drummers, would travel by sleigh from house to house in Moscow to sing for the owners. Peter the Great was also known to congratulate his friends in this manner, but he kept a list of participants and those who did not join were punished.
Happy Christmas (pre-1917 Russian postcard)Religious observances surrounding Christmas also flourished in Imperial Russia. Though the foods and customs surrounding the observance of Christmas differed from village to village and family to family, certain aspects remained the same. Christmas Eve was the last day of the six week Christmas fast, and for the devout, ancient custom dictated that no one eat until the first star shone in the sky. Hay was spread on the table and covered with a white cloth in imitation of the manger. Dinner began with a prayer for the New Year and a special porridge called kutya. The head of the household would throw a spoonful outside to encourage Grandfather Frost to spare the crops, then a spoonful was thrown up on the ceiling. The grains that stuck foretold the number of bees there would be in summer to ensure a plentiful honey harvest. Lastly, upon rising from the table, everyone left some kutya in their bowls for their departed relatives.
After the meal it was time to attend the Christmas Mass. On Christmas day, it was customary for everyone to dress in their finest clothes and go visiting. Tables were spread in a traditional manner with a variety of nuts and fruits, as well as several types of special gingerbread cookies. The two-week feast known as Russian Christmastide, or Svyatki, was celebrated after the orthodox Christmas on January 7th through Epiphany on January 19th. Activities during this period were more closely associated with pagan traditions and included singing, dancing, carnivals and fortune telling.
After the 1917 Revolution, Christmas was banned throughout Russia along with other religious celebrations. It wasn’t until 75 years later, in 1992, that the holiday was once again openly observed.
Bibliography: Massie, Suzanne. The Land of the Firebird: The Beauty of Old Russia. New York: Simon & Schuster, Inc., 1980.
Ally Broadfield lives in Texas and is convinced her house is shrinking, possibly because she shares it with three kids, five dogs, two cats, a rabbit, and several reptiles. Oh, and her husband. She likes to curse in Russian and spends most of her spare time letting dogs in and out of the house and shuttling kids around. She writes historical romance and middle grade/young adult fantasy. Her first book, Just a Kiss, is coming from Entangled Publishing in January 2014.You can find Ally on her website, Facebook, and Twitter (though she makes no claims of using any of them properly).
To Dream of Langston by Mairi Norris
Welcome today to History Undressed, guest author, Mairi Norris! She's here to share a little history behind her new release, To Dream of Langston! Enjoy!
Thanks so much, Eliza for hosting me on History Undressed today. This is an exciting time for me because I just published my first book, To Dream of Langston, on September 30. It's great to have an opportunity to chat a little about the book.
To Dream of Langston is the "book of my heart". It's a coming of age novel featuring Katherine Fairbanks, a young doctor's daughter who loses her first love, is betrayed into a false marriage to man who is a member of a white slavery guild, and is then rescued by the man who is her destiny, a man whom she has dreamed of since her childhood.
When I began writing To Dream of Langston, I envisioned the Fairbanks family living in a fictional town (Heathcrest) that straddled a highway that ran north to south from London all the way up into Scotland. At the time, I had no idea that in reality, just such a road existed. As I began to research the area of North Yorkshire, I came across references to the Great North Road. It was exciting to make that discovery, although in order to accommodate the placement of Heathcrest where I wanted it in North Yorkshire, I had to create a non-existent branch of the road to reach it.
The Great North Road is ancient. A great slash of rutted (or muddy, if it rained) dirt, it stretched from London to Edinburgh, with a major nexus in the city of York. The Romans used it in their efforts to conquer the land. Coaching inns sprang up along it to accommodate those who journeyed. Kings and queens moved militaries to war upon it and at various times tolls were issued to raise capital. Royalty and noblemen, tradesmen and peasants and pilgrims traveled it. Highwaymen preyed upon them all.
Sir Walter Scott thought traveling it dull. Cromwell's grandfather owned a coaching inn along it. Such diverse personages as St. Cuthbert and Bonnie Prince Charlie wandered sections of it.
So much history, myth/legend and literature surround this incredible highway that one can only touch upon it in a blog. But while Sir Scott might have thought traveling it dull, I found all these accounts fascinating.
The British A-1 Highway follows the general course of the Great North Road, but one can still travel actual sections of the ancient path by leaving A-1 for the towns (and surviving coaching inns) that graced it. I was fortunate to travel a short distance along the old route while passing through North Yorkshire last year.
Back Cover "Blurb" for To Dream of Langston:
From the wild, beautiful landscape of the moorlands of England's North Yorkshire to the rolling bluegrass pastures of Kentucky, one [young] woman's passion carries her from love's first bloom to a love everlasting.
On the brink of womanhood, young Katherine Fairbanks glories in the sweet love of the boy next door. When her life is brutally ripped apart by tragedy, she believes she will never love again and seeks only peace for her life. But betrayal sweeps her across the sea and lands her in the hands of a man she dares not trust.
Thoroughbred breeder Jayce Langston has little interest in taking a wife. His time is consumed with the struggle to help his family recover from the devastations of America's Civil War. When a beautiful, mysterious woman pursued by thugs drops in a deep swoon at his feet as he leaves a New York club, Jayce is both captivated and intrigued. He returns with her to his Kentucky stud farm in hopes of learning her identity.
Together, they must work against terrifying odds to secure a future where love triumphs over loss.
An Excerpt from To Dream of Langston:
Katherine promptly wrapped her arms round Jamie's waist. She trembled as if with a chill.“I love you so much,” she said into his shirtfront.It took a bit o’ doing, but he got his hand under her chin and lifted, surprised to find tears in her eyes. She pinched her bottom lip tightly between her teeth, but still it quivered.“I love you, too. Forever and a day.”A sudden thought caught him, a memory from the tales o’ the old days in the Highlands that his ma told afore the fire on winter eves. He caught his breath. Would she agree?“Kate, I’ve an idea.” Excitement jogged his words like grasshoppers gone mad.Sure of her attention, he said, “Would ye handfast wi’ me? Here, now?”She blinked, and looked a bit dazed, as well she might. ’Twas a daft idea, but the more he thought on it, the more certain he was o’ its rightness.“You want to handfast? But it’s not a legal ceremony.”“Aye, sure, I ken. But it would bind us forever and a day. Would ye no’ like that?”“I thought handfasting was for ‘a year and a day’.”“Och, it depends on the time and place. But just between us, I’d rather we promise forever. What say ye?”The glory o’ her smile had his heart thudding.“I’d like it very much. Shall we do it up here, with the wind in our hair and the entire dale in our sight, or down by the pond, where we can hear the splash of the water.”“Which do ye want?”“Both!”He laughed. “Weel, since it isnae legal and we're doin’ it all helter-skelter like, I reck it willnae matter if we do it twice. It will just make it twice as bindin’. Give me the ribbon from yer hair.”In no time, her braid was unraveled.“Now give me yer hand.”He spoke as he wrapped the ribbon—fiery copper to match the strands in her hair—around their wrists in a loose figure eight. “I, James MacCorkin, will take ye, Katherine Fairbanks, to my wedded wife, forever and a day, and thereby I plight my troth to ye.”With the last word, he finished the binding. Her hand trembled within the warmth of his. He tightened his grip, thinking he could happily drown in the luminous joy infusing the blue depths o’ her eyes. The breeze freshened, playing with his hair but performing a dance o’ sheer glee with hers.She spoke her vow and in the saying, he discerned the unswerving devotion o’ her soul.“I, Katherine Fairbanks, will take thee, James MacCorkin, to my wedded husband, forever and a day, and thereby I plight to thee my troth.”Jamie’s left hand slipped into his pocket. “It’s tradition for the handfasted couple to exchange gifts at this time. I…I brought this for ye, meanin’ to give it to ye this day. Now seems a verra appropriate time.”He opened his fist. Upon his palm lay a golden circle, smooth and unadorned. “It’s no’ the ring I wanted for ye, but it was bought wi’ my own coin. I meant it for our betrothal, but now it seals our handfastin’, too. See ye, I had it engraved wi’ our given names on the inside o’ the band.”He slid the band onto her finger. His gaze returned to her face, where sparkling tears veined cheeks glowing blush with the wind and the strength of her ardor.“Aw, Kate.”“It’s just…so b-beautiful, my darling. The day is beautiful, and the ceremony and the ring, and you are beautiful! But I have no gift for you.”She thinks me ‘beautiful’?Jamie tried to convince himself the heat washing over his face was naught but too much sun. Still, a man could be called worse, even by the woman he loved.“Ye’ve gifted me wi’ yerself, Kate, wi’ yer future and sweet love, and I need none greater. Besides, ye couldnae have known we’d be doin’ this. O’ course, I wouldnae fuss if ye gave me somethin’ later.”She laughed, and he wiped away the traces o’ her tears. “There is one gift ye can give right now, my Kate.”Standing as she was on the hill a little below him, she had to lift onto her toes to reach him. The kiss was gentle, sweet and as binding as their vows.
Contact Màiri:Website: http://www.romancingtheeras.comFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/mairi.norrisBuy Link for To Dream of Langston:http://www.amazon.com/To-Dream-Langst...
Eliza, thanks again for having me today.
