Eliza Knight's Blog, page 49
September 22, 2012
Guest Historical Romance Review: My Wicked Little Lies by Victoria Alexander
Thank you so much to Kira Decker, who has done a guest review for us!
My Wicked Little Lies (Sinful Family Secrets) by Victoria Alexander
About the Book:
Evelyn Hadley-Attwater has it all--a genteel Victorian life replete with loving husband, ball gowns and elegant parties. No one, including the man she married, suspects that she was once "Eve," a spy for England's most enigmatic intelligence agency. Summoned for one final assignment, the excitement of her former life and memories of her mysterious, flirtatious boss "Sir" prove too tempting. . .
Adrian Hadley-Attwater is a respectable, dignified gentleman. But even the most proper gentlemen have secrets of their own. Secrets from the rest of the world, from their families, from their wives. Secrets that have a price. Now, as a veil of secrecy frays, a tantalizing game of cat and mouse will test the bounds of unfailing love. . .
Available in Ebook and PaperbackISBN: 978-1420117066Zebra BooksMy Review:
I have to admit, this book surprised me. I loved the premise that the two main characters were already married instead of the typical storyline of getting to that result.
Although the plot is lacking depth in some places, the characters themselves are delightful. Evelyn is a feisty young woman who has left the adventurous life of a spy behind for the quiet safety of marriage. Having been married for two years the heroine, Evelyn Hadley-Attwater, finds herself drawn back into her past life as a spy. A past she has never quite figured out how to explain to her prim and proper husband, Adrian, an Earl in London’s high society.
Adrian, truly in love with his wife, also has a past about which he neglected to inform his wife. His fears that Evelyn may not love him as much as he thought, lead him to develop outrageous schemes to determine whom she really does love. Him or his alter ego, Sir. Adrian shows how sometimes, love can make a fool out of you even after you are married.
The story transported me into London’s high society in the late 1800s and the not so proper goings-on between the privileged upper class. In an almost keystone cop like series of miscues, the twists and turns kept me entertained. Even though the events were predictable in many places, the comedic miscommunications made the adventure enjoyable and I found myself wondering just how the characters would extradite themselves from the problems of their own crafting. The secondary characters, especially Beryl, added to the comedy and the side romance of the sidekick characters Max and Celeste, was a nice contrast to the relationship of Evelyn and Adrian. I chuckled at the absurdity of situations that could have been avoided with simple communications. Marriage is often like that and Ms. Alexander captured that beautifully.
An enjoyable read with a fresh twist on the normal romantic story.
My Wicked Little Lies (Sinful Family Secrets) by Victoria AlexanderAbout the Book:
Evelyn Hadley-Attwater has it all--a genteel Victorian life replete with loving husband, ball gowns and elegant parties. No one, including the man she married, suspects that she was once "Eve," a spy for England's most enigmatic intelligence agency. Summoned for one final assignment, the excitement of her former life and memories of her mysterious, flirtatious boss "Sir" prove too tempting. . .
Adrian Hadley-Attwater is a respectable, dignified gentleman. But even the most proper gentlemen have secrets of their own. Secrets from the rest of the world, from their families, from their wives. Secrets that have a price. Now, as a veil of secrecy frays, a tantalizing game of cat and mouse will test the bounds of unfailing love. . .
Available in Ebook and PaperbackISBN: 978-1420117066Zebra BooksMy Review:
I have to admit, this book surprised me. I loved the premise that the two main characters were already married instead of the typical storyline of getting to that result.
Although the plot is lacking depth in some places, the characters themselves are delightful. Evelyn is a feisty young woman who has left the adventurous life of a spy behind for the quiet safety of marriage. Having been married for two years the heroine, Evelyn Hadley-Attwater, finds herself drawn back into her past life as a spy. A past she has never quite figured out how to explain to her prim and proper husband, Adrian, an Earl in London’s high society.
Adrian, truly in love with his wife, also has a past about which he neglected to inform his wife. His fears that Evelyn may not love him as much as he thought, lead him to develop outrageous schemes to determine whom she really does love. Him or his alter ego, Sir. Adrian shows how sometimes, love can make a fool out of you even after you are married.
The story transported me into London’s high society in the late 1800s and the not so proper goings-on between the privileged upper class. In an almost keystone cop like series of miscues, the twists and turns kept me entertained. Even though the events were predictable in many places, the comedic miscommunications made the adventure enjoyable and I found myself wondering just how the characters would extradite themselves from the problems of their own crafting. The secondary characters, especially Beryl, added to the comedy and the side romance of the sidekick characters Max and Celeste, was a nice contrast to the relationship of Evelyn and Adrian. I chuckled at the absurdity of situations that could have been avoided with simple communications. Marriage is often like that and Ms. Alexander captured that beautifully.
An enjoyable read with a fresh twist on the normal romantic story.
September 21, 2012
Death Before the Altar by Laura Vosika
Today on History Undressed, I'd like to welcome guest author, Laura Vosika! Today she's sharing with us a fascinating and gripping bit of Scottish history! Enjoy :)
Death Before the Altarby Laura Vosika
The Butterfly Effect: it’s a source of endless fascination to us, to contemplate how the smallest decision can have profound and far-reaching effects. Books have been written, movies have been filmed, and every one of us knows such a story first-hand, how oversleeping saved someone from being killed or how a man changed his mind about which movie to see that night and ended up meeting the woman he would marry. We marvel at how that one decision, that one small detail, affected not only the individual’s life, but so many lives all around him, spreading out sometimes for generations.
Such was the case for poor John Comyn, a Scottish earl in the late thirteenth century. He couldn’t begin to guess how the wild weather in March 1286, or his king’s race to get home to his new wife, would lead to his own death, years later, in 1306.
Maybe, considering he was a king and his death was bound to have an impact, it’s not entirely fair to call this the butterfly effect. Nonetheless, Alexander’s decision, a very personal one, on the night of March 19, should have been, historically speaking, nothing but the beat of a butterfly’s wings. After a council meeting, he wanted to get home to his new wife. This was nothing like the political decisions being made in his councils with his earls. It was nothing that should have affected the fate of a nation, except, hopefully, to produce an heir.
But the meeting went long. The night grew dark. And the weather grew rough.
Alexander ignored the warnings of his men to stay put; he ignored the warning of the ferry man to stop and insisted on crossing; and somewhere in the night, on the other side of the water, his horse stumbled. Alexander was found dead of a broken neck. He left no heir, but his granddaughter, the young Maid of Norway. She died in the Orkney Islands on her way to be crowned the new ruler, leaving Scotland with no clear heir.What followed is the time many of us know from the movie Braveheart, when Edward I of England stepped into the gap and began his takeover of Scotland; when William Wallace resisted and was finally captured and executed in 1305.
In the wake of a failed kingship by John Balio, and Wallace’s death, there remained the question of who would take the throne. As the two strongest contenders, whose families had long been at odds over the question, John Comyn, Earl of Badenoch, and Robert the Bruce, agreed to meet at Greyfriars Kirk in Dumfries, to set aside their long-standing differences and discuss the matter. They left their swords outside the church.
Historians have argued for centuries, and perhaps will for years to come, about what happened in the kirk and why. But the end result was that Bruce pulled a knife, there before the altar, and stabbed John Comyn. There are those who believe he went to the meeting intending to do so. He had made agreements with various people, including Comyn, that would not have been to the liking of Edward I of England, and he had reason to believe that Comyn had betrayed him to Longshanks.
My personal belief is that Bruce went into the meeting with honorable intentions. He had been known as hot-tempered in his younger days, and there had been a long history of animosity between himself and Comyn. Some sources state that he spent the rest of his life feeling guilt for that act before the altar.Whatever his intentions, Comyn ended up dead at Greyfriars Kirk, one of thousands of deaths that ultimately resulted from Alexander’s insistence upon defying a rough, wild night to reach his new bride.
About Blue Bells of ScotlandShawn Kleiner has it all: money, fame, a skyrocketing career as an international musical phenomenon, his beautiful girlfriend Amy, and all the women he wants--until the night Amy has enough and leaves him stranded in a Scottish castle tower.
He wakes up to find himself mistaken for Niall Campbell, medieval Highland warrior. Soon after, he is sent shimmying down a wind-torn castle wall into a dangerous cross country trek with Niall's tempting, but knife-wielding fiancee. They are pursued by English soldiers and a Scottish traitor who want Niall dead.
Thrown forward in time, Niall learns history’s horrifying account of his own death, and of the Scots’ slaughter at Bannockburn. Undaunted, he navigates the roiled waters of Shawn’s life-- pregnant girlfriend, amorous fans, enemies, and gambling debts--seeking a way to leap back across time to save his people, especially his beloved Allene. His growing fondness for Shawn’s life brings him face to face with his own weakness.
About the AuthorLaura Vosika, author of the Blue Bells Chronicles, is also working on several other novels and a non-fiction book on raising a large family. Past publishing credits include an essay in Glamour magazine.
Laura grew up in the military, visiting castles in England, pig fests in Germany, and the historic sites of America's east coast. She earned a bachelor's degree in music, and master's degree in education, and worked for many years as a freelance musician, private music instructor, and school band director.
She currently lives in Minnesota with her nine children, and assorted menagerie.
Linkswebsite: www.bluebellstrilogy.comblog: www.bluebellstrilogy.blogspot.comblog: http://gaelicwordaday.wordpress.com/facebook: www.facebook.com/laura.vosika.authortwitter: www.twitter.com/lauravosikaBlue Bells of Scotland:Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Blue-Bells-Scotland-Trilogy-ebook/dp/B002T460DG/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&m=AG56TWVU5XWC2&s=digital-text&qid=1308762525&sr=1-1BN: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/blue-bells-of-scotland-laura-vosika/1102513903?ean=2940011060083&itm=1&usri=vosikaitunes: http://itunes.apple.com/us/book/blue-bells-scotland-blue-bells/id450416815?mt=11smashwords: http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/16271The Minstrel Boy:Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Minstrel-Blue-Bells-Chronicles-ebook/dp/B007A389JY/ref=ntt_at_ep_dpt_2
September 14, 2012
Video of the Week: Horrible Histories Ruthless Rulers
What's a week without a bit of Horrible Histories??? Here's a little ditty sure to make you smile!
September 7, 2012
Review of The Devil Devere Series by Victoria Vane (Recommended Read!)
I'd like to welcome another ebook reviewer to History Undressed! Callie Hutton (author of the Oklahoma Lovers series) has joined out team! Thank you, Callie!!!
The Devil Devere by Victoria Vane -- Four Scorching Novellas, One Continuing Story
A WILD NIGHT'S BRIDE (book #1)
What happens when a struggling actress and a grieving widower come together in a night of unbridled debauchery orchestrated by a bored and machinating rake? With the devil in charge there will be hell to pay!
She’s a lonely lady down on her luck... Phoebe Scott, alias Kitty Willis, is a struggling Covent Garden actress with a bruised heart and a closely guarded secret.
He’s steadfast and eminently respectable..Sir Edward Chambers, Ned to his intimates, is guilt-ridden over his beloved wife’s death and avowed to live out a rustic and mundane life … of celibacy.
With the devil in charge — there will be hell to pay. Devil in disguise, Viscount Ludovic DeVere, is determined to return his best friend, Ned, to the land of the living. His meddling machinations result in a night of mind blowing passion after which “dull dog Ned” awakes to find himself in the King of England’s bed! A WILD NIGHT’S BRIDE, a sexy, rollicking Georgian romp!Callie's Review...
In Georgian England, Actress Phoebe Scott is looking for a Protector. The theater where she had a brief run as the sultry Kitty Willis, has closed its doors. She decides to adopt the persona of Kitty, so different from her own, to secure a Protector who can support her now that the theater has closed, and help her in her career. Because of a closely guarded secret, and her financial circumstances, the marriage she’d always dreamed of is not an option.
Sir Edward Chambers, Ned to his intimates, is dragged by his friend, Viscount Ludovic DeVere to a night of debauchery where he meets the lovely, and obviously out of her realm, Phoebe. He is not the ‘Protector’ sort of man, but after a night of passion, he isn’t about to let Phoebe go.
I thoroughly enjoyed A Wild Night’s Bride. Ned is a hero in the true sense, and Phoebe, although down on her luck, does not come across as a victim. She’s sassy, brave, and is willing to put aside her dreams for her reality.
Since this is the first in a series of four stories centered around the debauched Devil DeVere, I look forward to the next three from this talented author.
THE VIRGIN HUNTRESS (book#2)
Desperate times call for devilish measures… when the object of one's passion has eyes for another… it's time to take matters in hand!
Lady Vesta Chambers is accustomed to getting what she wants…Coddled and pampered, since her mother's death, Lady Vesta Chambers is beside herself when her father goes to London to prepare for her come-out and returns with a young bride of his own. With her world turned upside down, Vesta accompanies her godmother, Diana, to town, where she is smitten the moment she lays eyes on a certain captain of the Seventeenth Light Dragoons.
But when the object of her passion has eyes for another… Captain Hewett DeVere, younger brother and heir to Viscount Ludovic "The Devil" DeVere, has returned from the American war scarred, disillusioned, and looking forward to settling down to a quiet and respectable life. But when the handsome and straight-laced captain turns his eyes toward the widowed Diana, Vesta is prepared to take devilish measures to prove she is no longer a little girl, but a woman with the passion of …a huntress.
Callie's Review...
After thoroughly enjoying the first book in the Devil DeVere series of four stories, this second book, The Virgin Huntress, was a bit of a disappointment. I always find it difficult to appreciate a story when I dislike the heroine so much. There is no other way to describe Lady Vesta Chambers other than a spoiled brat. She goes after what she wants, regardless of the consequences to others. Captain Hewett DeVere was a likeable, albeit a somewhat unbelievable, hero.
That being said, the story was well developed, and kept my interest. If you like a strong-willed, loose cannon type of heroine, you’ll love The Virgin Huntress. I now look forward to book three in the series.
THE DEVIL YOU KNOW (book#3)
When dealing with the devil it's easy to be burned… especially when passion ignites the flames.
Who can find a virtuous woman… Beautiful, respectable, and dutiful, Lady Diana Palmerston-Wriothesley has long resigned herself to her decade-long loveless and childless marriage to a feckless husband…until his gambling pushes them to the brink of financial ruin.
Sometimes the devil is in disguise…as a gentleman… Viscount Ludovic, "The Devil DeVere", is a man accustomed to taking what he wants according to his whim and heedless of the cost…until he encounters a woman who won't be had at any price.
When dealing with the devil, it's easy to be burned… When Diana discovers a secret that shatters the carefully built façade concealing her private pain, she seeks aid and comfort from the most unlikely place…the devil's arms. But will a single night of heavenly passion damn them both forever?
Callie's Review...
Lady Diane Palmerston-Wriothesley, who we met briefly in book one and two of the DeVere Devil series, has a starring role in Victoria Vane’s third book, The Devil You Know.
Lady Diana’s dreams of a comfortable, happy marriage have withered and died in the reality of her ten year union with Baron Palmerston-Wriothesley. Not only does he ignore her needs, he has brought them to the door of financial ruin by his gambling. At a gathering for horse races at the home of Viscount Ludovic DeVere, a man of notorious sexual appetites, Diana is confronted with the true horror of her husband’s predilections, and the reason for her unsatisfying marriage.
I will stop here in the description to avoid any spoilers, but I will offer high praise for The Devil You Know. The pages (or ebook screen, depending on your preference) literally pop every time Ludovic and Diana appear together. The sexual tension is riveting, his desire to have her, and hers to resist, a palpable thing. I loved Diana, and oftentimes moved by her predicament. The Devil is, well, the Devil. Despite his debauched ways, the author has made him not only likeable, but down right loveable. I wait with bated breath for the fourth book, and the finale.
Well done, Ms. Vane!
THE DEVIL'S MATCH (book#4)
Once burned twice shy… but when old flames come together…passion reignites...
When burned once… Arriving in London as her goddaughter's chaperone, Baroness Diana Palmerston-Wriothesley wants to avoid her erstwhile lover at all costs. Once nearly consumed by passion, four years has reduced the former inferno to bitterness and ashes.
By an old flame... A world-weary master of seduction, Ludovic "The Devil" DeVere is bored with his chosen life of debauchery. When Diana's charge disappears, she is forced to seek help from the devil's lair, and their mutual desire reignites with undeniable ferocity.
Fire is best fought with fire… While DeVere is hell-bent to have her back for keeps, Diana is equally determined to bring him to his knees…by acquiring some sensual secrets of her own. Callie's Review...
What a fabulous ending to a wonderful series! In the last book of the Devil DeVere series, “The Devil” and Baroness Diana come back together years after their interlude together. Still hurt and confused by Ludovic’s rejection, Diana is disturbed when she and her former lover are thrown together because of their mutual goddaughter’s antics and subsequent engagement and wedding. Ludovic is anxious to renew their alliance, but Diana wishes to keep him at arms length, even though her desire for him has not ebbed.
I was happy the appearance of Vestra in this book did not spoil it for me, since I disliked the girl in The Virgin Huntress. She was certainly more tolerable in The Devil’s Match. But overall, the series was well written, interesting, and kept me turning the pages. I highly recommend Ms. Vane’s series.
The Devil Devere by Victoria Vane -- Four Scorching Novellas, One Continuing Story
A WILD NIGHT'S BRIDE (book #1)
What happens when a struggling actress and a grieving widower come together in a night of unbridled debauchery orchestrated by a bored and machinating rake? With the devil in charge there will be hell to pay!
She’s a lonely lady down on her luck... Phoebe Scott, alias Kitty Willis, is a struggling Covent Garden actress with a bruised heart and a closely guarded secret.
He’s steadfast and eminently respectable..Sir Edward Chambers, Ned to his intimates, is guilt-ridden over his beloved wife’s death and avowed to live out a rustic and mundane life … of celibacy.
With the devil in charge — there will be hell to pay. Devil in disguise, Viscount Ludovic DeVere, is determined to return his best friend, Ned, to the land of the living. His meddling machinations result in a night of mind blowing passion after which “dull dog Ned” awakes to find himself in the King of England’s bed! A WILD NIGHT’S BRIDE, a sexy, rollicking Georgian romp!Callie's Review...
In Georgian England, Actress Phoebe Scott is looking for a Protector. The theater where she had a brief run as the sultry Kitty Willis, has closed its doors. She decides to adopt the persona of Kitty, so different from her own, to secure a Protector who can support her now that the theater has closed, and help her in her career. Because of a closely guarded secret, and her financial circumstances, the marriage she’d always dreamed of is not an option.
Sir Edward Chambers, Ned to his intimates, is dragged by his friend, Viscount Ludovic DeVere to a night of debauchery where he meets the lovely, and obviously out of her realm, Phoebe. He is not the ‘Protector’ sort of man, but after a night of passion, he isn’t about to let Phoebe go.
I thoroughly enjoyed A Wild Night’s Bride. Ned is a hero in the true sense, and Phoebe, although down on her luck, does not come across as a victim. She’s sassy, brave, and is willing to put aside her dreams for her reality.
Since this is the first in a series of four stories centered around the debauched Devil DeVere, I look forward to the next three from this talented author.
THE VIRGIN HUNTRESS (book#2)Desperate times call for devilish measures… when the object of one's passion has eyes for another… it's time to take matters in hand!
Lady Vesta Chambers is accustomed to getting what she wants…Coddled and pampered, since her mother's death, Lady Vesta Chambers is beside herself when her father goes to London to prepare for her come-out and returns with a young bride of his own. With her world turned upside down, Vesta accompanies her godmother, Diana, to town, where she is smitten the moment she lays eyes on a certain captain of the Seventeenth Light Dragoons.
But when the object of her passion has eyes for another… Captain Hewett DeVere, younger brother and heir to Viscount Ludovic "The Devil" DeVere, has returned from the American war scarred, disillusioned, and looking forward to settling down to a quiet and respectable life. But when the handsome and straight-laced captain turns his eyes toward the widowed Diana, Vesta is prepared to take devilish measures to prove she is no longer a little girl, but a woman with the passion of …a huntress.
Callie's Review...
After thoroughly enjoying the first book in the Devil DeVere series of four stories, this second book, The Virgin Huntress, was a bit of a disappointment. I always find it difficult to appreciate a story when I dislike the heroine so much. There is no other way to describe Lady Vesta Chambers other than a spoiled brat. She goes after what she wants, regardless of the consequences to others. Captain Hewett DeVere was a likeable, albeit a somewhat unbelievable, hero.
That being said, the story was well developed, and kept my interest. If you like a strong-willed, loose cannon type of heroine, you’ll love The Virgin Huntress. I now look forward to book three in the series.
THE DEVIL YOU KNOW (book#3)When dealing with the devil it's easy to be burned… especially when passion ignites the flames.
Who can find a virtuous woman… Beautiful, respectable, and dutiful, Lady Diana Palmerston-Wriothesley has long resigned herself to her decade-long loveless and childless marriage to a feckless husband…until his gambling pushes them to the brink of financial ruin.
Sometimes the devil is in disguise…as a gentleman… Viscount Ludovic, "The Devil DeVere", is a man accustomed to taking what he wants according to his whim and heedless of the cost…until he encounters a woman who won't be had at any price.
When dealing with the devil, it's easy to be burned… When Diana discovers a secret that shatters the carefully built façade concealing her private pain, she seeks aid and comfort from the most unlikely place…the devil's arms. But will a single night of heavenly passion damn them both forever?
Callie's Review...
Lady Diane Palmerston-Wriothesley, who we met briefly in book one and two of the DeVere Devil series, has a starring role in Victoria Vane’s third book, The Devil You Know.
Lady Diana’s dreams of a comfortable, happy marriage have withered and died in the reality of her ten year union with Baron Palmerston-Wriothesley. Not only does he ignore her needs, he has brought them to the door of financial ruin by his gambling. At a gathering for horse races at the home of Viscount Ludovic DeVere, a man of notorious sexual appetites, Diana is confronted with the true horror of her husband’s predilections, and the reason for her unsatisfying marriage.
I will stop here in the description to avoid any spoilers, but I will offer high praise for The Devil You Know. The pages (or ebook screen, depending on your preference) literally pop every time Ludovic and Diana appear together. The sexual tension is riveting, his desire to have her, and hers to resist, a palpable thing. I loved Diana, and oftentimes moved by her predicament. The Devil is, well, the Devil. Despite his debauched ways, the author has made him not only likeable, but down right loveable. I wait with bated breath for the fourth book, and the finale.
Well done, Ms. Vane!
THE DEVIL'S MATCH (book#4)
Once burned twice shy… but when old flames come together…passion reignites...
When burned once… Arriving in London as her goddaughter's chaperone, Baroness Diana Palmerston-Wriothesley wants to avoid her erstwhile lover at all costs. Once nearly consumed by passion, four years has reduced the former inferno to bitterness and ashes.
By an old flame... A world-weary master of seduction, Ludovic "The Devil" DeVere is bored with his chosen life of debauchery. When Diana's charge disappears, she is forced to seek help from the devil's lair, and their mutual desire reignites with undeniable ferocity.
Fire is best fought with fire… While DeVere is hell-bent to have her back for keeps, Diana is equally determined to bring him to his knees…by acquiring some sensual secrets of her own. Callie's Review...
What a fabulous ending to a wonderful series! In the last book of the Devil DeVere series, “The Devil” and Baroness Diana come back together years after their interlude together. Still hurt and confused by Ludovic’s rejection, Diana is disturbed when she and her former lover are thrown together because of their mutual goddaughter’s antics and subsequent engagement and wedding. Ludovic is anxious to renew their alliance, but Diana wishes to keep him at arms length, even though her desire for him has not ebbed.
I was happy the appearance of Vestra in this book did not spoil it for me, since I disliked the girl in The Virgin Huntress. She was certainly more tolerable in The Devil’s Match. But overall, the series was well written, interesting, and kept me turning the pages. I highly recommend Ms. Vane’s series.
September 6, 2012
An Author (Male) speculates on his readership (mostly female) by C.C. Humphreys
Today I'd like to welcome to History Undressed an amazing historical author, C.C. Humphreys (I highly recommend his books!). I am currently reading his latest release, A Place Called Armageddon, and am completely spellbound! Review will be posted in the next few days.
An Author (Male) Speculates on his Readership (Mostly Female)
Though the initials ‘CC’ could conceal a member of either sex (like JK or, indeed, EL) I am, in fact, a man. Yet judging from my mailbag, most of my readers appear to be women. Despite various publishers trying to market me with gung ho covers featuring action heroes, it is the women who write, who seem most enthralled by my characters and their journeys.
I am very happy about that – women buy most books after all. But I don’t deliberately slant my books to one or other gender. I am interested in many aspects of life - and that encompasses both swordplay and love making, along with politics of church and state. Most of all, though, I am interested in people – striving, often failing, some eventually triumphing – though the triumph may not be the one they originally sought.
It may have something to do with the fact that I both love and admire women and so create strong female characters. Historical times, with a few notable exceptions, are dominated by men – other men wrote those histories after all. But despite the restrictions placed on them over the ages, women overcame them to pursue their quests, to have wonderful adventures. Many were forced by adversity to struggle and win. Many believed in causes as powerfully as did the men of their times.
Most of my male characters exist in relationship to a woman - perhaps more than on, and often that is the dilemma. In any of my novels, entwined in the ‘active’ plot of searching and battle, is a relationship question that is often as important as any political or military ones, and needs as strong a resolution. In ‘A Place Called Armageddon’ I explore a question that has always interested me: is it possible to love two people, fully, passionately, at the same time? Gregoras, the ‘wounded hero’ at the novel’s heart, is torn between his first love, the passionate and devout Sofia and the new thrill of the wild sorceress Leilah. How he resolves that is completely tied up with the fall of the city and of equal importance by the end.
Perhaps that’s why so many of my readers are female –and why this book operates on many different levels. Spoiler alert: Constantinople falls. But the relationship questions remain unanswered till the very end. And the battles that all my characters take part in are not just fights for their own sake. They are events that put people we know in great peril – and may prevent them, or aid them, in resolving the greatest desires of their hearts.
*~*~*~*~*
You know how the siege of Constantinople ends. It’s written in the history books.
But what was the human toll? What are the stories of the people involved? How did they experience this epic battle that tore apart cultures, religions, and families?
That is what you will discover in author C.C. Humphreys’ new novel A Place Called Armageddon: Constantinople 1453 (ISBN 9781402272493; SEPTEMBER 2012; $25.99; Fiction; Hardcover).
The year is 1453. The city of Constantinople is at the center of a clash of civilizations. For the Greeks, it’s their home that has withstood attacks for centuries behind mighty walls. For the Turks, it’s the prize they have spent centuries trying to win.
Humphreys features a wide cast of characters from both sides of the rampart in A Place Called Armageddon. At the center are Gregoras and Theon. Twin brothers from Constantinople. One an exiled mercenary who has vowed never to return. The other a rising diplomatic star hiding a secret of betrayal. A woman who has captured one’s heart, but is married to the other as a trophy. Two brothers fighting for glory and redemption.
A Place Called Armageddon also imagines what the battle meant for two real-life historical figures—Emperor Constantine and Mehmet, sultan of the Turks. Both men fighting for the gods they believe in. Both sides tasting victory and defeat before the final showdown. Among those fighting is engineer John Grant, a Scotsman brought to Constantinople to recover the formula for Greek fire, and Achmed, a Turkish farmer lured into service by the promise of the spoils of war. Lurking in the shadows is Leilah, a sorceress who plays a dangerous game with both sides.
From sword fights with pirates to explosions in tunnels and towers, secret rendezvous in the enemy camp, and the religious and moral dilemmas of war, Humphreys once again uses his dramatic flair and meticulous research to weave fiction into fact.
About the Author —Chris (C.C.) Humphreys is an actor, playwright, fight choreographer, and novelist. He has acted all over the world and appeared on stages ranging from London’s West End to Hollywood’s Twentieth Century Fox. As C.C. Humphreys, Chris has written six historical fiction novels. The first, The French Executioner, told the tale of the man who killed Anne Boleyn and was runner up for the CWA Steel Dagger for Thrillers 2002. Its sequel, Blood Ties, was a bestseller in Canada. Having played Jack Absolute, he stole the character and has written three books on this “007 of the 1770s”—Jack Absolute, The Blooding of Jack Absolute, and Absolute Honour—short listed for the 2007 Evergreen Prize by the Ontario Library Association. He is also the author of Vlad: The Last Confession (Sourcebooks, 2011). For more information, visit www.cchumphreys.com.
An Author (Male) Speculates on his Readership (Mostly Female)
Though the initials ‘CC’ could conceal a member of either sex (like JK or, indeed, EL) I am, in fact, a man. Yet judging from my mailbag, most of my readers appear to be women. Despite various publishers trying to market me with gung ho covers featuring action heroes, it is the women who write, who seem most enthralled by my characters and their journeys.
I am very happy about that – women buy most books after all. But I don’t deliberately slant my books to one or other gender. I am interested in many aspects of life - and that encompasses both swordplay and love making, along with politics of church and state. Most of all, though, I am interested in people – striving, often failing, some eventually triumphing – though the triumph may not be the one they originally sought.
It may have something to do with the fact that I both love and admire women and so create strong female characters. Historical times, with a few notable exceptions, are dominated by men – other men wrote those histories after all. But despite the restrictions placed on them over the ages, women overcame them to pursue their quests, to have wonderful adventures. Many were forced by adversity to struggle and win. Many believed in causes as powerfully as did the men of their times.
Most of my male characters exist in relationship to a woman - perhaps more than on, and often that is the dilemma. In any of my novels, entwined in the ‘active’ plot of searching and battle, is a relationship question that is often as important as any political or military ones, and needs as strong a resolution. In ‘A Place Called Armageddon’ I explore a question that has always interested me: is it possible to love two people, fully, passionately, at the same time? Gregoras, the ‘wounded hero’ at the novel’s heart, is torn between his first love, the passionate and devout Sofia and the new thrill of the wild sorceress Leilah. How he resolves that is completely tied up with the fall of the city and of equal importance by the end.
Perhaps that’s why so many of my readers are female –and why this book operates on many different levels. Spoiler alert: Constantinople falls. But the relationship questions remain unanswered till the very end. And the battles that all my characters take part in are not just fights for their own sake. They are events that put people we know in great peril – and may prevent them, or aid them, in resolving the greatest desires of their hearts.
*~*~*~*~*
You know how the siege of Constantinople ends. It’s written in the history books.But what was the human toll? What are the stories of the people involved? How did they experience this epic battle that tore apart cultures, religions, and families?
That is what you will discover in author C.C. Humphreys’ new novel A Place Called Armageddon: Constantinople 1453 (ISBN 9781402272493; SEPTEMBER 2012; $25.99; Fiction; Hardcover).
The year is 1453. The city of Constantinople is at the center of a clash of civilizations. For the Greeks, it’s their home that has withstood attacks for centuries behind mighty walls. For the Turks, it’s the prize they have spent centuries trying to win.
Humphreys features a wide cast of characters from both sides of the rampart in A Place Called Armageddon. At the center are Gregoras and Theon. Twin brothers from Constantinople. One an exiled mercenary who has vowed never to return. The other a rising diplomatic star hiding a secret of betrayal. A woman who has captured one’s heart, but is married to the other as a trophy. Two brothers fighting for glory and redemption.
A Place Called Armageddon also imagines what the battle meant for two real-life historical figures—Emperor Constantine and Mehmet, sultan of the Turks. Both men fighting for the gods they believe in. Both sides tasting victory and defeat before the final showdown. Among those fighting is engineer John Grant, a Scotsman brought to Constantinople to recover the formula for Greek fire, and Achmed, a Turkish farmer lured into service by the promise of the spoils of war. Lurking in the shadows is Leilah, a sorceress who plays a dangerous game with both sides.
From sword fights with pirates to explosions in tunnels and towers, secret rendezvous in the enemy camp, and the religious and moral dilemmas of war, Humphreys once again uses his dramatic flair and meticulous research to weave fiction into fact.
About the Author —Chris (C.C.) Humphreys is an actor, playwright, fight choreographer, and novelist. He has acted all over the world and appeared on stages ranging from London’s West End to Hollywood’s Twentieth Century Fox. As C.C. Humphreys, Chris has written six historical fiction novels. The first, The French Executioner, told the tale of the man who killed Anne Boleyn and was runner up for the CWA Steel Dagger for Thrillers 2002. Its sequel, Blood Ties, was a bestseller in Canada. Having played Jack Absolute, he stole the character and has written three books on this “007 of the 1770s”—Jack Absolute, The Blooding of Jack Absolute, and Absolute Honour—short listed for the 2007 Evergreen Prize by the Ontario Library Association. He is also the author of Vlad: The Last Confession (Sourcebooks, 2011). For more information, visit www.cchumphreys.com.
September 4, 2012
Interview with Acclaimed Scottish Romance Author: Victoria Roberts (Giveaway!)
Welcome to History Undressed, good friend and fellow Scottish romance author, Victoria Roberts! I'm excited to introduce you to Victoria and her debut novel, TEMPTATION IN A KILT, the first in her Bad Boys of the Highlands series. Leave a comment for a chance to win a print copy! Enjoy!
Eliza, thank you so much for having me today. I’ve been a huge fan of History Undressed for some time, and I’m thrilled to be a guest!
~What was the deciding factor for you in writing a Scottish romance?
I don’t think there was ever any question of the genre. When I was introduced to romance novels several years ago, I fell in love with Scotland. I think the first Scottish historical I read was one of Hannah Howell’s and I couldn’t get enough. Between the clan conflicts, the lovely Scottish brogue, the bonny Scottish Highlands, gigantic steeds, brawny Highlanders in kilts wielding broadswords, I wanted to bring my love of Scotland to life in the pages of a romance novel.
~Your books are very well researched and true to life, but not in a way that readers feel you're trying to teach them a history lesson. Readers get a good taste for history and the real-life settings and only adds to the flavor of the book. You’ve captured the essence of the Scottish culture in your characters, their language, their clothes, their morals, actions. What is your research process like? How do you decide what stays and what goes?
Thank you for the compliment! I think you’ll all agree with me. Life is hard enough. I honestly don’t want to teach anyone a lesson. I want to give readers an escape from the everyday burdens of day jobs, raising a family, etc. Who wouldn’t like to put the kids to bed and take a little adventure in the Scottish Highlands with a handsome laird?
As far as the research, I determine the year and the setting and then find out everything I can about that area in that timeframe. Whether it’s via the internet, books, clans, maps, Scottish folklore, etc., I try my best to stay true to historical accuracy. But I do write fiction. I also have a large support group via Celtic Hearts Romance Writers who have many experts in historical research and the Gaelic language.
My editor once told me, “A little Scottish flare goes a long way.” I definitely agree with that. My CP (critique partner) has an amazing ability to keep me on track.
~What is your favorite bit of history you learned while researching Temptation in a Kilt?
The history of King James VI of Scotland/King James I of England, the only son of Mary, Queen of Scots is very interesting. He was very vocal and active in witch hunts and personally supervised the torture of woman being accused of witchcraft. But this played more of a part in my second book. For Temptation in a Kilt, I think the most intriguing part was the history between the MacGregors and the Campbells. Both clans have a long history, but I focused on their life and struggles at Glenorchy.
~Which scene is your favorite in the book and why?
I actually have several, but this is one of my favorites. In this scene, Ciaran and Rosalia are speaking about Ciaran’s leman.
Ciaran broke the silence and spoke quietly. “She means naught to me.”A tear fell down her cheek and she wiped it away. “It doesnae matter—truly,” she whispered.He reached out and gently brushed her arms. When she closed her eyes to avoid his probing gaze, he raised her chin with his finger. He did not speak until she opened her eyes. “It matters to me,” he said solemnly. He wiped her tears with his thumb. “I told her we were done when I returned to Glenorchy. She wasnae pleased. I didnae know she was there, Rosalia. She saw ye and Aisling and threw her body upon me.” She could not help but smirk. “Her verra bare body, my laird.” He paused for a moment, a spark of some indefinable emotion in his eyes. “I didnae notice, Rosalia. All I saw was ye,” he whispered, slowly bending his head toward her.
I don’t know what it is, but I love a strong Highlander who is able to lower his defenses and show his love who he truly is. I still sigh every time I read Ciaran’s last line.
~What was the hardest scene to write? Why?
Without giving away any spoilers, the hardest scene for me to write was when the women were taken. The original draft was very dark. I really tortured and demeaned my characters. You’ve heard of actors “getting into their role?” I placed myself emotionally into those scenes as a wife, mother, etc. I’d ask myself, “What would I do if…” My editor did not want to cut the scene, but I had to lighten it up—a lot. As a result, I had to write and reread several times before I was comfortable and satisfied with the scene. ~What piece of advice would you offer to writers in the historical romance genre?
Write. Write. Write. Practice makes perfect. I would give that advice to any aspiring author.
~What is your writing schedule like?
I try to write Monday through Friday, 1000 words/day or I shoot for 5000/week. I really strive to meet my daily goals and give myself the weekends off. Of course sometimes life intervenes and it doesn’t happen the way I would like, but I think setting reasonable goals is important.
~What writer was most inspiring to you on your career path to becoming an author?
I don’t have just one. I would have to say it’s a mix of Lynn Kurland, Karen Marie Moning, Hannah Howell, Brenda Joyce and Sabrina Jeffries.
~What’s next for you?
X Marks the Scot is the second book in the Bad Boys of the Highlands series and is scheduled for release in February 2013. I am currently working on Book 3 in the series.
~Is there anything you'd like to share with readers? A question you want to pose to them?
Books are a means of escape. Where is your favorite escape/setting and why?
Eliza, thank you so much for having me. This has been great fun and I’m honored to be here with you and your readers today. As a thank you, Sourcebooks will give away copies of Temptation in a Kilt to two lucky commenters (US and Canada, only please.)
Happy Reading!
Victoriawww.victoriarobertsauthor.com
She’s on her way to safetyIt’s a sign of Lady Rosalia Armstrong’s desperation thatshe’s seeking refuge in a place as rugged and challengingas the Scottish Highlands. She doesn’t care abouthardship and discomfort, if only she can become masterof her own life. Laird Ciaran MacGregor, however, iscompletely beyond her control…
He redefines dangerous…Ciaran MacGregor knows it’s perilous to getembroiled with a fiery Lowland lass, especially one asheadstrong as Rosalia. Having made a rash promiseto escort her all the way to Glengarry, now he’s stuckwith her, even though she challenges his legendaryprowess at every opportunity. When temptationreaches its peak, he’ll be ready to show her who hereally is…on and off the battlefield.
Praise for Temptation in a Kilt:
“Roberts’s debut features appealing
characters and an interesting background
of ancient clan feuds and spurned lovers.”
—Publishers Weekly
“Well written, full of intrigue and a sensual,
believable romance, this book captivates
the reader immediately”
—RT Book Reviews/4 stars
ABOUT THE AUTHOR...
Victoria Roberts writes sexy, Scottish historical romances about kilted heroes and warriors from the past. An avid lover of all things Scotland—simply, she writes what she loves to read. Prior to ever picking up a single romance novel, she penned her first young-adult novella (never published) at sixteen years old. Who knew her leather studded motorcycle hero would trade in his ride and emerge as a kilt donning Highlander wielding a broadsword?
Victoria lives in western Pennsylvania with her husband of nineteen years and their two beautiful children—not to mention one spoiled dog. When she is not plotting her next Scottish romp, she enjoys reading, nature and antiques.
Historical Romance Review: Temptation in a Kilt by Victoria Roberts
Temptation in a Kilt... The perfect title for a fun read! I couldn't put it down!
ABOUT THE BOOK...
She’s on her way to safetyIt’s a sign of Lady Rosalia Armstrong’s desperation that she’s seeking refuge in a place as rugged and challenging as the Scottish Highlands. She doesn’t care about hardship and discomfort, if only she can become master of her own life. Laird Ciaran MacGregor, however, is completely beyond her control…
He redefines dangerous…Ciaran MacGregor knows it’s perilous to get embroiled with a fiery Lowland lass, especially one as headstrong as Rosalia. Having made a rash promise to escort her all the way to Glengarry, now he’s stuck with her, even though she challenges his legendary prowess at every opportunity. When temptation reaches its peak, he’ll be ready to show her who he really is…on and off the battlefield.
Sourcebooks, Mass Market Paperback and EbookISBN-13: 9781402270062Available now in most e-tailers and brick and mortars!
MY REVIEW...
Adventure, compelling characters, villains you want to stab and a hero and heroine you love, Temptation in a Kilt is an entertaining read you won't want to miss!
The very first line of the book is both hilarious and an awesome hook! How could I put it down after reading this: "Sometimes being a Highland laird was a royal pain in the arse." A great way to begin a book and to pull us in.
Ciaran MacGregor is one hawt Scot. He's got it all brawn, intelligence, leadership--and above all a sensuality that not only drew in the heroine but drew me too. I'm thoroughly in love. Ciaran has a special touch. He may be an ultra male, but he knows how to handle fiesty Rosalia just fine. His discovery of her "disguise" was one of my favorite scenes. I just love their reactions :-) But even more wonderful was watching the two of them grow closer and the love and romance coming alive.
Rosalia is a woman bent on gaining control in her life. She does so the only way she knows how--escaping the life she has for one that may be harder but promises a future she can live with. Running into Ciaran turns out to be a blessing in disguise, she now has an escort who can protect her, but she's also got someone on her side and I loved watching her mixed feelings and the growth of her love for him. The sensuality was real and warm.
There are a number of villains in this book, and the author has a natural gift for giving them the perfect qualities to make you despise them! I thoroughly enjoyed hating each one and seeing them all get what they deserve.
The history pops and its evident that not only did the author do her research, but that she enjoys the history and culture of Scotland. The bits of history and touches of culture really added a wonderful flavor to the book that made you feel you were a part of it.
Well done, Ms. Roberts! I eagerly look forward to the second book in your Bad Boys of the Highlands series! (Which is the perfect series title!) I highly recommend Temptation in a Kilt !
September 1, 2012
Historical Book Review: Whorticulture by Marie-Anne Mancio
I'd like to introduce you to one of our new ebook reviewers at History Undressed, Emma Westport! Thank you Emma for reading and we look forward to all of your reviews...
ABOUT THE BOOK:
As a girl waits for the return of her disappeared father, the story of four migrant women unravels. In antebellum America: a daydreamer from the country gets an unexpected education on the Mississippi river; a storekeeper falls in love with a thief amid the chaos of Gold Rush San Francisco; a fugitive quadroon re-invents herself in a New York brothel; and a young bride is trapped on a Louisiana sugar plantation. Though they do not know it, their lives are inextricably linked by the men they encounter.
Peopled by whores, tricksters, gamblers, do-gooders, liars, and fools, and with allusions to the coded language of flowers, Whorticulture is about prostitution in its myriad forms.
Emma Westport's Review of Whorticulture by Marie-Anne MancioWhorticulure is a small jewel, less than 100 pages, in which four young women tell their stories.
In 1844, 16-year-old Katherine leaves her parents’ home for Cincinnati, to live with her much older uncle. He educates her and finds her a job as governess to a family in New Orleans but something goes wrong. When Katherine arrives in New Orleans, she’s alone and penniless and her only advice on how to get by comes from Kidney-foot Sal, a yellow haired whore with a purse full of coins.
Abigail, still single at the age of 28, refuses an offer of marriage and heads for San Francisco. She opens a hat shop but business is poor. It’s 1847 and women—or ‘ladies,’ the sort who would buy Abigail’s fine hats—are few and far between. Her life changes when a man comes looking for a hat for his sister and, against her better judgment, Abigail lets him into her life.
15 year old Seraphine—who never tells her real name—arrives in New York in 1851. She and her sister have run away from New Orleans. They talk their way into a brothel where many of the girls, like them, are black or mulatto. At 16, Seraphine gladly sells her virginity to a white man in hopes of getting the money she needs to get to Europe.
And, finally, Emily. She leaves Boston at the age of 16, in love with her new husband, a slave owner from New Orleans. But away from her family and friends, unable to conceive the child her husband wants, Emily comes to hate the man she married—a man who abuses her as he abuses his slaves.
From the opening pages of this small book, the author eases you into the world each of these characters inhabits, worlds rich in detail and harsh truths. Each story is unique—each woman is unique—and though they don’t know it, all four women are connected, sharing the men they love, hate or have slept with as whores.
Whorticulture is not easy to put down and, I would say, impossible to forget. Some part of your soul will stay in the nineteenth century.
August 30, 2012
Castle Stalker by Vonda Sinclair
Welcome back to History Undressed, my good friend and amazing Scottish romance author, Vonda Sinclair! She's giving us the Castle of the Week -- Stalker Castle, and she's sharing with us some beautiful pics she took on her trip to Scotland. Enjoy!
Castle Stalkerby Vonda Sinclair
Castle Stalker (Caisteal an Stalcaire) sits in one of the most dramatic and beautiful settings in Scotland, on a small island (or islet) known as Cormant's Rock in Loch Laich, just off Loch Linnhe in Port Appin, Argyll, Scotland. If you're traveling there, it's midway between Oban and Glen Coe. On our travels, because we had gone through Glen Orchy, we went ten miles or so off route just to see the castle and eat a nice lunch at the Stalker View Café. From these photos you can see it was a very cloudy day and it started raining while I was taking pictures.
Stalcaire or Stalker means hunter or falconer. Even today in Scotland, deer hunting is called deer stalking. We didn't get to visit the castle because a boat is required. The castle is fully restored, habitable and privately owned. A few tours per year are available.
Castle Stalker as seen today is original from the 1400s. But before Castle Stalker, the MacDougall Clan, Lords of Lorn, held a small fort on the islet, which is great for defense, in the early 1300s. The MacDougalls lost this title because they were defeated by King Robert the Bruce at the Battle of the Pass of Brander in 1308. They regained the title and lands after 1328 and held it until around 1388 when the Lordship of Lorn passed to the Stewarts along with the site where Castle Stalker sits.
Most sources state that Castle Stalker as seen today was built by Sir John Stewart, Lord of Lorn, in the 1440s. The castle was built by expert stone masons who constructed parts of the walls nine feet thick. They also built a dungeon beneath it and there is still a record of those who were held here.
Sir John Stewart is known to have had an illegitimate son, Dugald, in 1446. In 1463 he wanted to make his son legitimate by marrying his son's mother, a MacLaren, at Dunstaffnage (a castle near Oban.) But John was attacked and mortally wounded by Alan MacCoul, a MacDougall, because he and a large group of men were trying to prevent John from continuing the Stewart line. John Stewart did live long enough to marry the mother of his son, therefore making him legitimate so he could inherit.
There was a lot of plotting and political manipulation going on at the time between many clans because the Lord of the Isles, who held a lot of power in the west, had a major conflict with the king. And of course, the Stewarts of Appin being both powerful and loyal to the king were seen as a threat. It is believed that the Lord of the Isles was behind the assassination of John and that others who went along with the murder plot could have been Colin Campbell, Lord Argyll. The murderer, Alan MacCoul was the illegitimate grandson of an earlier MacDougall chief.
Dugald Stewart became the first Chief of Appin. But he lost the title of Lord of Lorn because of his uncle, Walter Stewart's treachery and plotting with the Lord of Argyll. Walter ended up with the title but with no authority. A battle took place in 1468 across from the castle called the Battle of Stalc in which the Stewarts banded together with the MacLarens and defeated the MacDougalls and MacFarlanes (acting in the interests of Colin Campbell and Walter Stewart.) Dugald himself killed his father's murderer, Alan MacCoul. The MacFarlanes were defeated and never able to fully recover. The outcome of this battle solidified Dugald's claim to Appin. This area was formally granted to him by King James III on April 14th, 1470.
Dugald Stewart was killed in 1497 in a battle or skirmish in which the Stewarts and MacLarens were allied against the MacDonalds of Keppoch. The reason for the conflict was the stealing of cattle. What's interesting is one source says the MacDonalds stole the cattle. Another says the MacLarens stole the cattle from the MacDonalds, but the MacDonalds followed them and once they caught up with them a battle took place. The MacDonalds won and recovered their cattle. But the MacLarens asked Dugald Stewart for assistance. Then, another battle between those clans took place in which both Dugald and the MacDonald chief were killed. Dugald's son, Duncan Stewart, succeeded him as Chief of Appin.
King James IV and V were cousins of the Stewarts of Appin and often traveled to Castle Stalker to hunt. Duncan Stewart led the clan until 1512 when he was murdered by the McLeans. His younger brother Alan succeeded him. He and his five sons fought in the Battle of Flodden and all survived, though the king didn't.
The Stewart clan held Castle Stalker until 1620 when the Campbells of Airds acquired it in a drunken wager by the 7th Stewart Chief, Duncan, in exchange for an eight-oared wherry or beorlin (a rowboat). The Stewarts, under Ardsheal, regained the castle in 1689 when they sided with King James VII (and II) against King William. After their defeat at Dunkeld, Castle Stalker again was to be granted to the Campbells. But the Stewarts refused to give it up. The Campbells lay siege to the castle for several months until the Stewarts were granted an honorable surrender in 1690.
In the Rising of 1745, Castle Stalker was held by the Campbells and a garrison of 59 government troops. The Stewarts (Jacobites on the side of Bonnie Prince Charlie, their very distant cousin) attempted to take the castle with a force of 300 men but the castle proved too strong with its thick walls. At the famous Battle of Culloden, Charles Stewart of Ardsheal led a company of 300 men from 19 clans. The Appin Regiment suffered 92 killed and 65 wounded. After the Battle of Culloden, the government used the castle as a center where Jacobite Highlanders had to surrender their arms. And Stewart of Ardsheal went to Europe.
The Campbells lived in Castle Stalker until around 1800 when they built a new house on the mainland at Airds. Castle Stalker became a storehouse. Around 1840, the roof fell in or may have been removed so the owner could avoid paying a roof tax. The castle was abandoned until 1908 when Charles Stewart of Achara purchased it from the Campbells and did some preservation. In 1965, Lt. Col. D.R. Stewart Allward purchased the castle and spent ten years personally rebuilding and restoring it as it is today. It is now owned and run by his children and grandchildren.
Leave a comment for your chance to win a copy of MY BRAVE HIGHLANDER !!!
Vonda's newest release... My Brave Highlander
Battle-hardened warrior Dirk MacLerie isn't who everyone thinks he is. He's Dirk MacKay, heir apparent to the MacKay chiefdom and Dunnakeil Castle on the far north coast of Scotland. When he returns home after a long absence, will his clan know him and will the duplicitous enemy who tried to murder him twelve years ago kill him in truth this time?
Lady Isobel MacKenzie is a beautiful young widow betrothed to yet another Highland chief by her brother's order. But when her future brother-in-law accosts her and threatens to kill her, she is forced to flee into a Highland snowstorm. When she runs into a rugged and imposing man she thought dead, she wonders if he will turn her over to her enemy or take her to safety.
Dirk remembers the enchanting, dark-eyed Isobel from when he was a lad, but now she is bound to another man by legal contract—an important detail she would prefer to forget. She wishes to choose her own husband and has her sights set on Dirk. But he would never steal another man's bride… would he? The tantalizing lady fires up his passions, testing his willpower and honor at every turn, even as some of his own treacherous clansmen plot his downfall.
Read it! Amazon / Barnes and Noble / Smashwords
---Vonda Sinclair’s favorite indulgent pastime is exploring Scotland, from Edinburgh to the untamed and windblown north coast. She also enjoys creating hot, Highland heroes and spirited lasses to drive them mad. She is a past Golden Heart finalist and Laurie award winner. She lives with her amazing and supportive husband in the mountains of North Carolina where she is no doubt creating another Scottish story. She is the author of the Highland Adventure Series: My Fierce Highlander, My Wild Highlander and My Brave Highlander. Please visit her online at:Twitter https://twitter.com/VondaSinclair FaceBook: http://www.facebook.com/VondaSinclair website: www.vondasinclair.com
Castle Stalkerby Vonda SinclairCastle Stalker (Caisteal an Stalcaire) sits in one of the most dramatic and beautiful settings in Scotland, on a small island (or islet) known as Cormant's Rock in Loch Laich, just off Loch Linnhe in Port Appin, Argyll, Scotland. If you're traveling there, it's midway between Oban and Glen Coe. On our travels, because we had gone through Glen Orchy, we went ten miles or so off route just to see the castle and eat a nice lunch at the Stalker View Café. From these photos you can see it was a very cloudy day and it started raining while I was taking pictures.
Stalcaire or Stalker means hunter or falconer. Even today in Scotland, deer hunting is called deer stalking. We didn't get to visit the castle because a boat is required. The castle is fully restored, habitable and privately owned. A few tours per year are available.
Castle Stalker as seen today is original from the 1400s. But before Castle Stalker, the MacDougall Clan, Lords of Lorn, held a small fort on the islet, which is great for defense, in the early 1300s. The MacDougalls lost this title because they were defeated by King Robert the Bruce at the Battle of the Pass of Brander in 1308. They regained the title and lands after 1328 and held it until around 1388 when the Lordship of Lorn passed to the Stewarts along with the site where Castle Stalker sits.
Most sources state that Castle Stalker as seen today was built by Sir John Stewart, Lord of Lorn, in the 1440s. The castle was built by expert stone masons who constructed parts of the walls nine feet thick. They also built a dungeon beneath it and there is still a record of those who were held here.Sir John Stewart is known to have had an illegitimate son, Dugald, in 1446. In 1463 he wanted to make his son legitimate by marrying his son's mother, a MacLaren, at Dunstaffnage (a castle near Oban.) But John was attacked and mortally wounded by Alan MacCoul, a MacDougall, because he and a large group of men were trying to prevent John from continuing the Stewart line. John Stewart did live long enough to marry the mother of his son, therefore making him legitimate so he could inherit.
There was a lot of plotting and political manipulation going on at the time between many clans because the Lord of the Isles, who held a lot of power in the west, had a major conflict with the king. And of course, the Stewarts of Appin being both powerful and loyal to the king were seen as a threat. It is believed that the Lord of the Isles was behind the assassination of John and that others who went along with the murder plot could have been Colin Campbell, Lord Argyll. The murderer, Alan MacCoul was the illegitimate grandson of an earlier MacDougall chief.
Dugald Stewart became the first Chief of Appin. But he lost the title of Lord of Lorn because of his uncle, Walter Stewart's treachery and plotting with the Lord of Argyll. Walter ended up with the title but with no authority. A battle took place in 1468 across from the castle called the Battle of Stalc in which the Stewarts banded together with the MacLarens and defeated the MacDougalls and MacFarlanes (acting in the interests of Colin Campbell and Walter Stewart.) Dugald himself killed his father's murderer, Alan MacCoul. The MacFarlanes were defeated and never able to fully recover. The outcome of this battle solidified Dugald's claim to Appin. This area was formally granted to him by King James III on April 14th, 1470.
Dugald Stewart was killed in 1497 in a battle or skirmish in which the Stewarts and MacLarens were allied against the MacDonalds of Keppoch. The reason for the conflict was the stealing of cattle. What's interesting is one source says the MacDonalds stole the cattle. Another says the MacLarens stole the cattle from the MacDonalds, but the MacDonalds followed them and once they caught up with them a battle took place. The MacDonalds won and recovered their cattle. But the MacLarens asked Dugald Stewart for assistance. Then, another battle between those clans took place in which both Dugald and the MacDonald chief were killed. Dugald's son, Duncan Stewart, succeeded him as Chief of Appin.
King James IV and V were cousins of the Stewarts of Appin and often traveled to Castle Stalker to hunt. Duncan Stewart led the clan until 1512 when he was murdered by the McLeans. His younger brother Alan succeeded him. He and his five sons fought in the Battle of Flodden and all survived, though the king didn't.The Stewart clan held Castle Stalker until 1620 when the Campbells of Airds acquired it in a drunken wager by the 7th Stewart Chief, Duncan, in exchange for an eight-oared wherry or beorlin (a rowboat). The Stewarts, under Ardsheal, regained the castle in 1689 when they sided with King James VII (and II) against King William. After their defeat at Dunkeld, Castle Stalker again was to be granted to the Campbells. But the Stewarts refused to give it up. The Campbells lay siege to the castle for several months until the Stewarts were granted an honorable surrender in 1690.
In the Rising of 1745, Castle Stalker was held by the Campbells and a garrison of 59 government troops. The Stewarts (Jacobites on the side of Bonnie Prince Charlie, their very distant cousin) attempted to take the castle with a force of 300 men but the castle proved too strong with its thick walls. At the famous Battle of Culloden, Charles Stewart of Ardsheal led a company of 300 men from 19 clans. The Appin Regiment suffered 92 killed and 65 wounded. After the Battle of Culloden, the government used the castle as a center where Jacobite Highlanders had to surrender their arms. And Stewart of Ardsheal went to Europe.
The Campbells lived in Castle Stalker until around 1800 when they built a new house on the mainland at Airds. Castle Stalker became a storehouse. Around 1840, the roof fell in or may have been removed so the owner could avoid paying a roof tax. The castle was abandoned until 1908 when Charles Stewart of Achara purchased it from the Campbells and did some preservation. In 1965, Lt. Col. D.R. Stewart Allward purchased the castle and spent ten years personally rebuilding and restoring it as it is today. It is now owned and run by his children and grandchildren.
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Vonda's newest release... My Brave Highlander
Battle-hardened warrior Dirk MacLerie isn't who everyone thinks he is. He's Dirk MacKay, heir apparent to the MacKay chiefdom and Dunnakeil Castle on the far north coast of Scotland. When he returns home after a long absence, will his clan know him and will the duplicitous enemy who tried to murder him twelve years ago kill him in truth this time?Lady Isobel MacKenzie is a beautiful young widow betrothed to yet another Highland chief by her brother's order. But when her future brother-in-law accosts her and threatens to kill her, she is forced to flee into a Highland snowstorm. When she runs into a rugged and imposing man she thought dead, she wonders if he will turn her over to her enemy or take her to safety.
Dirk remembers the enchanting, dark-eyed Isobel from when he was a lad, but now she is bound to another man by legal contract—an important detail she would prefer to forget. She wishes to choose her own husband and has her sights set on Dirk. But he would never steal another man's bride… would he? The tantalizing lady fires up his passions, testing his willpower and honor at every turn, even as some of his own treacherous clansmen plot his downfall.
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---Vonda Sinclair’s favorite indulgent pastime is exploring Scotland, from Edinburgh to the untamed and windblown north coast. She also enjoys creating hot, Highland heroes and spirited lasses to drive them mad. She is a past Golden Heart finalist and Laurie award winner. She lives with her amazing and supportive husband in the mountains of North Carolina where she is no doubt creating another Scottish story. She is the author of the Highland Adventure Series: My Fierce Highlander, My Wild Highlander and My Brave Highlander. Please visit her online at:Twitter https://twitter.com/VondaSinclair FaceBook: http://www.facebook.com/VondaSinclair website: www.vondasinclair.com
August 29, 2012
Video of the Week: Horrible Histories Historical Paramedics
This weeks' video is another from Horrible Histories! So grateful for modern medicine... Enjoy!
