Robyn Echols's Blog, page 2

Book Blitz: BERLIN BUTTERFLY ENSNARE by Leah Moyes

 Leah Moyes is from Arizona but experienced many parts of the world in thanks to a career in the airlines. Now most of her time, aside from writing, is spent with her family, reading Historical Fiction novels or studying ancient cultures as a student of Archaeology.

She always believed she was born in the wrong time period, but since she doesn’t have access to a time machine she must write and read intriguing stories of the past. 





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Stay or flee? Life or family? An impossible choice.
It's Aug 13, 1961, in Berlin Germany. Nationale Volksarmee soldiers roll barbed wire across the war-torn city to create the first Berlin Wall. Families are separated, livelihoods destroyed, death comes easily as crippling fear paralyzes the occupants on both sides of the wall. Fifteen-year-old Ella is faced with an agonizing decision. Does she risk crossing the wall and possible death to reach her family? Or does she embrace her new life and blossoming love that could be wrenched from her at any moment? West Germany and possible freedom or East Germany and controlled chaos?
Ensnare, the first book in the “Berlin Butterfly” series, is a story of life, love, survival and the struggle of living through the dark early years of the Berlin Wall. Readers will be captivated with Ella’s strength, determination, and vulnerability as she opens her heart amidst a dangerous and terrifying journey."

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Snippet:
“El?” The sound was barely a purr, but there was no doubt where it emerged from. I glanced at Anton then down to Papa. The commotion must’ve startled him awake. I went to him but delayed my touch, knowing he would sense my uneasiness. I knelt to the side of the couch and leaned my face in until I felt his breath on my cheek. “Go,” he mumbled. I looked at him alarmed, although the darkness hid my face. Is he really telling me to leave? I waited for a confirmation that came within seconds. “You . . . must . . . go,” he gasped with very little strength. I placed my trembling hand on the side of his face. “Please, Papa. Don’t make me choose.” My eyes stung from the strain. I looked back at Anton, my heart emotionally torn between the people I loved the most.



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Wednesday Wonders: NINE LADIES DANCING 2018

This week's Wednesday Wonders introduces  Nine Ladies Dancing 2018 : a collection of 9 sweet Regency romances and featuring  Love's Refrain  by Patricia Kiyono  

About Nine Ladies Dancing 2018 :
Nine bestselling authors present nine Regency romances — some traditionally sweet, some clean, some mildly sensuous — in a boxed set you won’t want to miss!

Teach Me Under the Mistletoe by Kay Springsteen: What's a girl to do when she's never been kissed, and the worldly man she wants regards her as a child?

How It All Began for the Baron by Tabetha Waite: Cassie can’t stand her brother’s best friend… really.

Love’s Refrain by Patricia Kiyono: Lady Laura Montgomery, acting as her stepsister's chaperone, takes solace in poetry and her love of music. Can they comfort her as she faces the man who stole her heart ten years ago?

Mistletoe Magic by Donna Hatch: Can the mistletoe work its magic and open Evelyn’s eyes to true love at the Christmas ball?

The Matchmakers by Ruth J. Hartman: Jessie Selkirk has a mission — to take care of every stray cat she finds. But when Baldwin Rutledge steps into her barn looking for a cat, she develops a whole new interest.

The Ruse by Felicia Rogers: Luke Andrews, Baron of Stockport, is in trouble. He needs a wealthy bride to secure future funds for his financially shaky estate, but the lovely lady who’s caught his eye doesn’t have two sticks to rub together — literally.

Heart of Delight by Jenna Jaxon: He’ll do anything to be her heart’s delight — except tell the truth.

Mischief on Albemarle by Vivian Roycroft: Miss Beryl Wentworth is silently, desperately in love with her childhood friend, Finian Fitzwilliam, who unfortunately still treats her as if willing to shove her into the nearest mud puddle... until a quite charming rake asks her for the first two dances at the Hanover Square assembly room.

The Respectable Charades by Sherry Gloag: No one could have predicted the chain of events triggered by Jenny's discovery of her fiance's body in his library… least of all her chance to find true love. From Patricia: 

Thank you so much for hosting me at your blog! Nine Ladies Dancing is a collection of sweet to mildly sensual historical romances released by Dingbat Publishing. Love’s Refrain is a sweet novella set in the regency period. Originally published in 2013, Love’s Refrain includes characters from my Christmas Regency series, which includes The Partridge and the Peartree, Two Tutor Doves, Three French Inns, and Four Calling Bards. I remember this story took very little time to write, because I had a clear idea of the main characters before I even started the first paragraph.
Laura Montgomery is a slightly older heroine, at least by Regency standards. She had her season ten years ago, and is now considered “off the shelf.” I wondered what it would be like for a woman like Laura, when women lacked the life choices we enjoy now. I was 28 when I married – a bit later than many of my friends, but in the nineteenth century I would have been considered a spinster. I did some reading and brainstorming, and I decided Laura would be a lot like me – responsible for her younger siblings, curious about the world around her, and finding joy as well as solace in music.
Andrew is the man Laura loved from afar. Ten years ago he married Laura’s best friend, so she’s kept her feelings to herself. Of course he’s handsome, and kind. Like all my heroes, he’s based partly on my handsome husband. Except that Andrew is an earl and he plays the flute, and my husband… well, he’s a good listener! And of course, my husband has no royal title. But several of the character traits that attracted me to him so many years ago were incorporated into Andrew Bradford. He cares deeply for his mother and tries to please her, even when he finds her plans slightly distasteful. He’s fiercely protective of those he loves. Most of all, he supports Laura’s love of the arts.
Definitely hero material.


Blurb
Lady Laura Montgomery, acting as her stepsister's chaperone, takes solace in poetry and her love of music. Can they comfort her as she faces the man who stole her heart ten years ago?


Excerpt
Laura’s thoughts went back ten years, to her own season. She’d been so young and naive then, full of hopes, dreams, and romantic notions.
There was one who figured prominently in her memories. One gentleman had stood out among all the others — a tall, handsome, elegant young man. He had been stylish, yet not vain. His hazel eyes had shone with intelligence, but he’d listened politely when others spoke, those expressive eyes indicating genuine interest. Through experience, she knew he was a graceful dancer, yet he seemed content to spend time discussing the weather with the chaperones. There had been no one else like him.
And then, as if she had magically recalled him from her memory, he was there. Andrew Bradford carried a plate of treats for his mother, the dowager Countess Covington, whose regal presence held court in a seat to Laura’s right. The man was as handsome as she remembered. His voice as he addressed the countess was as sonorous and soothing as it had been when he’d held her in his arms for one magical dance. Ten years ago, she’d fallen in love with Andrew, but he’d fallen in love with her friend, Lady Priscilla. And so she’d had to watch as he’d courted and then wed another.
Andrew was now the Earl of Covington. Would he remember her? She doubted it. She was no longer a debutante, but rather a spinster, relegated to the chaperones’ corner. Please CLICK HERE to purchase Nine Ladies Dancing 2018.
Author bioPatricia Kiyono lives in southwest Michigan with her husband, not far from her children and grandchildren. She teaches music education at a nearby university, but when not in the classroom she can be found writing, sewing, crocheting, scrapbooking, or making music. A love of travel and an interest in faraway people inspires her to create stories about different cultures.
Patricia can be found at her website and blog, and on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest.

Blog Tour: A CONVENIENT ENGAGEMENT by Ashtyn Newbold

Today's Wednesday Wonders features A Convenient Engagement  by Ashtyn Newbold

About A Convenient Engagement:
A false engagement. A mysterious coast. Two reluctant hearts.

Much to her father’s dismay, Miss Amelia Buxton aspires to become a spinster, just like her eccentric aunt. Growing up with parents who married for every reason but love, she has never seen a joyful marriage. When Amelia requests a summer trip to the legendary waters of Brighton, her father allows her the excursion, but with one requirement: she must return engaged, or agree to the proposal of the man of his choosing.

Crawling with tourists, Brighton is not the town Adam Claridge once loved. When his sister Eleanor disappears without warning, Adam is desperate to bring her home. In his search, he happens upon Miss Amelia Buxton, a young tourist that proves vital in his search for Eleanor. But Amelia is conducting a search of her own—a search for a husband—and Adam has little choice but to offer a fair trade: he will play the role of Amelia’s betrothed in exchange for her assistance in finding Eleanor.

Convenient at first, Amelia and Adam’s arrangement quickly plummets into disarray. Falling in love had not been part of their bargain.

A Convenient Engagement is a sweet and clean regency romance novel.
My Book Review:

I loved the characters in this sweet romance set in Regency Brighton. The heroine was a sweet young woman disillusioned with marriage after seeing so many unhappy couples among her class. In spite of her father's insistence she marry, she sought to be like her eccentric spinster aunt -- such a great character hiding her own disappointments. Adam I liked, mainly because he possessed depth more than flash.

I enjoyed the plot, and the changes in attitude with the engagement of convenience designed to thwart Amelia's father's power play. A delightful read, one I highly recommend.
You may purchase A Convenient Engagement from Amazon. Please CLICK HERE.

About Ashtyn Newbold: Ashtyn Newbold discovered a love of writing early in high school. Inspired by regency period romance, she wrote her first novel at the age of sixteen. Because she can’t vacation in her favorite historical time periods, she writes about them instead. When not crafting handsome historical heroes, she enjoys baking, sewing, music, and spoiling her dog. She dreams of traveling to England and Ireland. Ashtyn is currently studying English and creative writing at Utah Valley University. She lives in Lehi, Utah with her family.Connect with Ashtyn Newbold: Website| Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads Amazon Author Page

Blog Tour: ROAD TO ROSEWOOD by Ashtyn Newbold

Today's Wednesday Wonders is part of a blog tour for Road To Rosewoodby Ashtyn Newbold

About Road to Rosewood :
Lucy Abbott's carriage is besieged by highwaymen as she returns to the country estate she fondly remembers from her childhood. A familiar man leads the band of outlaws, and Lucy must decide if she can trust him to safely guide her to her destination.
Purchase Links:
Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Deseret Book
Excerpt:

          Rachel stood, brushing one of my dark curls from my forehead. “I will visit again in two months.” Dropping her voice to a whisper, she added, “And when I do, I expect you to be at Rosewood. You must write me of all your adventures there.” Her lips twisted into a sad smile. She didn't like to see me like this.          “I will.” I squeezed her hand.          “When do you plan to leave?”          My fingers twitch over the letter in my lap. “As soon as I am able.”          She threw me a look of suspicion. “Surely you plan to involve Mama and Papa in the travel Arrangements? Papa will insist on everything being good and proper.”          I bit my lip.          “Lucy.” Rachel's eyebrow arched.          It felt as if I were being forced to confess to a stern nanny, much less my caring sister. “I did not plan to inform them. I need to do this on my own.”          “Lucy, I must insist that you make proper arrangements.”          I almost snapped at her, but saw that she was genuinely concerned. “I plan to travel by mail coach. It is the most affordable option.”          Rachel was quiet for a long moment.          “You won't tell them, will you?” My heart pounded with dread. This was my grand opportunity. I could not afford to have anyone stop me. My heart would break all over again, this time at the hand of shattered dreams. I couldn't carry on day-to-day with the same coastline, the same storms, the same bleak shops. The only thing that Craster shared with the countryside was the sky, but it was a different color there. I felt choked in confinement, seeing what I longed for but unable to touch it. Rachel had found love, joy, and contentment. I wanted the same.          “You should not be angry with them, Lucy.” Rachel's voice was soft. “Mama and Papa had their reasons for keeping away these years.”          My jaw tightened and I looked out the window again. Yes, reasons that they would never speak of. Secret things.          When I didn't reply, Rachel stood, smoothing her skirts. “I will not stop you from leaving. But please write to me often. Be safe.” When she met her husband at the door, she gave me a final glance over her shoulder before disappearing from sight.          What Rachel did not know is that I had already replied to that letter from Kitty. It had come weeks before, and I was leaving within the week.          I had been wrong, Rachel didn't always understand completely. Mama and Papa may have had their reasons for keeping me away from Rosewood, but I also had my reasons for being angry. By keeping me away from the countryside, they had deprived me of five summers—five summers I could have changed Nicholas's mind. What if he has seen me grown up? I was no longer a little child. Year after year, I beg to be allowed to visit again. I told my parents it was because of my cousins, and the sunshine, and the beautiful village, and it was, but they knew that I missed Nicholas the most.
My Book Review:  This was quite the exciting story. “Road” as it is used in this story has more than one connotation, and all of them were interesting to travel. The heroine, Lucy—far from perfect and a little difficult at times—finds she must deal with challenges she never anticipated when she left home. Although she remains single-minded about what she wants, part of the enjoyment of this story was wondering what kind of a fix she was going to get herself into next.
The author developed the characters well, and I could picture them in my mind as I read. I also enjoyed the window into the era as she unfolded the plot and described the surroundings.
This was an enjoyable and exciting read that kept me in suspense most of the story. Surprise revelations kept it interesting. The romance elements were sweet and clean. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Regency-era novels or a great romantic suspense story set in any era.

About Ashtyn Newbold: Ashtyn Newbold discovered a love of writing early in high school. Inspired by regency period romance, she wrote her first novel at the age of sixteen. Because she can’t vacation in her favorite historical time periods, she writes about them instead. When not crafting handsome historical heroes, she enjoys baking, sewing, music, and spoiling her dog. She dreams of traveling to England and Ireland. Ashtyn is currently studying English and creative writing at Utah Valley University. She lives in Lehi, Utah with her family.
Connect with Ashtyn Newbold: Website| Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads Amazon Author Page

Book Tour: QUEEN MARY'S DAUGHTER by Emily-Jane Hills Orford

There are so many possibilities that affect the course of history. One change, one small item overlooked, can make a world of difference, not only in a person's life, but in the history and well-being of an entire nation. And then there are those multiple scenarios of what if? 

What if King James VI of Scotland didn't succeed in amalgamating Scotland with England? What if there had been another heir to the throne of Scotland? One who would secure its independence? Would Scotland have remained free and independent and a nation of its own well into the twenty-first century? And would Scotland, this independent version, make its own decision to join the European Union when its southern neighbor was choosing to pull away?


"Queen Mary's Daughter" presents another plausible timeline, one that incorporates both historical fact and fiction with the endless possibilities of time travel.



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Emily-Jane Hills Orford is an award-winning author of several books, including Gerlinda (CFA 2016) which received an Honorable Mention in the 2016 Readers’ Favorite Book Awards, To Be a Duke (CFA 2014) which was named Finalist and Silver Medalist in the 2015 Next Generation Indie Book Awards and received an Honorable Mention in the 2015 Readers’ Favorite Book Awards. She writes about the extra-ordinary in life and her books, short stories, and articles are receiving considerable attention. For more information on the author, check out her website at: http://emilyjanebooks.ca


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This was quite the adventure—both time-travel and action-wise—as characters moved between the 16th century and modern times. After her grandmother’s death, a modern Mary Elizabeth living in 21stcentury feels compelled by her grandmother’s earlier urgings to return to Loch Leven castle in Scotland. There she learned of her amazing heritage and is introduced to people who have played a role in the past, and now guide her as she learns her destiny.
My suggestion, especially to those from the United States who may not be as familiar with British history, is to first read at least the short version of the history of Mary, Queen of Scots, and the ascensions to the Scottish and English thrones for the next couple of generations. It took me several chapters to sort some of this out, and the only thing that saved me was I recently read a novel from this time period. However, once I sorted out the characters, I was able to focus on the action which included a lot of movement between centuries. 
Mary Elizabeth encountered difficulties from the time she was born prematurely, one of two twins who were reported to have died. Family life among the royals was not “love at home” as several sought to kill those family members that might claim the thrones of Scotland and England in their stead. Others from the future go back in an effort to not allow Mary Elizabeth, the princess who lived, from claiming Scotland and changing history and the right of royal ascension.
This story ended with an interesting twist. Regardless of what the reader thinks of the royals and who should have ruled where. I think most will agree Mary Elizabeth in this book is a lovable character. I found my empathy stayed with her. A thought-provoking “what if” read.


Excerpt #1:
As the wind picked up, blowing her deep red, unruly curls helter-skelter over her face, Mary Elizabeth’s eyes focused on her hands. She stretched out the left hand, revealing the old ring that sat on her baby finger. It was a tiny ring and it only fit on the one finger. At the same time Gran bestowed the heirloom gift on her granddaughter, she had shared her story of the ring, at least as much as she was willing to share. The ring had been in the family for generations and only the firstborn daughter of the firstborn daughter (and so on and so on) could wear it. The ring was her connection to a past she wasn’t sure she believed in, a past that had been shared from one generation to the next. Or was there more? Was there a story her grandmother never managed to share?What would she find at Loch Leven Castle? The clues had to be there. But the boy said it was mostly ruins, crumbled walls and tumbled stones, except for the tower. Queen Mary’s tower. What could she possibly unearth to collaborate Gran’s story? And she only had two weeks to do it. She couldn’t afford more time away from work. Even though it was a poorly paid entry level job, she didn’t want to risk losing it.A glow emanated from the ring on her outstretched hand. She felt a warmth spread up her arms. The wind picked up, violently tossing her hair in every direction, swishing her coat ends like laundry hanging loosely on a clothesline. She faced into the wind, allowing its vicious impact to draw her forward. She took a step, then another, until she felt the cold wet of the lapping waves of the loch splash over her feet. The water was cold; it jolted her back to reality. What was she doing walking into the loch? What was the strong pulse pulling her forward? She allowed her eyes to glance out across the loch, now almost obliterated by the darkened storm that raged all around her.“Miss.” She heard a voice from behind her as the power continued to drag her into the loch. “Miss!” A hand gripped her arm, yanking her back toward the dry shore. “Miss!” The hands tightened their hold as she tried to pull away, tried to return to the loch. A scream pierced the air. She didn’t know where the scream originated. It sounded like it came from across the water.It also sounded like it came from deep within herself.Another scream and everything went black. 






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Wednesday Wonder: OH DANNY BOY by Josie Riviera

Today's Wednesday Wonder features Oh Danny Boyby Josie Riviera
About Oh Danny Boy:
This pot of gold could hold more than they bargained for…

Grand. Just grand. Clara Donovan’s failure to keep her brother from going off the rails—again—is a public spectacle. Including a handsome stranger who puts down his guitar case to help her talk Seamus down from Farthing’s tallest bridge.

Everything about Danny Brady reminds Clara how many times she swore she’ll never again be that pathetic, weak woman who got taken in by a good-looking man. Especially when, the next day, she walks into a new coffee shop in her little Irish town and discovers Danny’s secret.

Danny didn’t lie—technically—about his coffee shop chain. He’s just tired of women going after him for his wealth. Clara is a graceful, fiercely loyal, non-Irish Irish damsel in distress, a combination that tugs at his heart. A heart that’s spent its share of time in pieces.

Danny has never hesitated to go after what he wants, but melting Clara’s defenses will take more than hot tea and charm. He’ll have to prove he’s made of stronger stuff—even when her past threatens to tear her carefully reconstructed world to shreds.
You may purchase Oh Danny Boy on Amazon by CLICKING HERE .

And the Audio book.

For a video introduction, please CLICK HERE . 
To further whet your interest, here is Chapter One:

Chapter One
   “Seamus, don’t jump!” Clara Donovan heard her own cries, the shouts resounding through the misty night air. She raced across the sidewalk toward Farthing Bridge, her gaze riveted on a horror she didn’t want to believe. Her older brother Seamus sat on the edge of a tall bridge with his head slumped in his hands, a bottle of whiskey beside him. The arched stone bridge spanned the River Farthing, connecting the town to a once-popular marketplace.   No. It couldn’t be. Her breath burned in her chest as she took in gulps of dampness and drizzle. Don’t stop. Run faster.   When she reached the bridge, she elbowed through a group of late-night revelers. Several pointed up at Seamus. “He’s off the rails!” someone shouted.   Her brother seemed unaware of the gathering crowd. He swung his legs back and forth like an underwound metronome and stared into the ice-cold river below.   She shook off the image of him on her living room floor several days earlier. He’d been passed out drunk. Should she have phoned a treatment center? No. She could fix her brother’s problems. He simply needed encouragement, surrounded by his loving, supportive family.   Seamus. Gentle Seamus. Kind and fiery-haired, quick to temper, quicker to make amends. Her heart squeezed at the scruffy, dejected man he’d become since his wife had died.   Clara put her hands on her knees and took in calm, even breaths. Quickly, she assessed the corroded pedestrian catwalk leading to the top of the bridge, the skull and crossbones sign that warned Danger.   She stared upward at her sweet brother. “Dear saints in heaven, Seamus,” she whispered. “You promised me that you’d never drink again.”   She stuffed her wool gloves into her jacket pockets and bent to lace her weatherproof boots tighter. There was no time to dash around the river to the street that crossed the bridge, and she certainly wouldn’t ask anyone in the crowd to lend a hand.   She yanked off the “Danger” sign and threw it to the ground. That pressing feeling in her chest, like she was running out of air, slowed her movements. Dragging in another breath, she grasped the slippery wet handrails and stepped onto the bottom rung of the catwalk.   “Missus, are you trained for this?” a man from the crowd inquired.   She glanced around. The man stood a hairsbreadth away. He was tall with piercing blue eyes and carried a guitar case. His dark brown hair had a reddish tinge and his navy wool jacket strained against his athletic form.   “Thanks. I can manage on my own.”   Despite her refusal, she hesitated. Was she trained to climb to the top of a rusted bridge when she was crippled with fear and could hardly breathe? Umm, no. But she was desperate, and desperation made people do things they thought they could never do.   “I insist.” The man set his guitar case on the grass and stepped forward. “Who’s sitting on the top of the bridge?”   “My brother!”   “I’ll follow behind you. No worries.”   No worries. Dear saints in heaven, her brother was about to jump off a bridge.   She gripped the slick railings with both hands and began climbing, acutely aware of the guitar player’s encouraging whispers behind her. She counted each step until she reached the top, scrambled to her feet, and raced to her brother. Seamus’s chin was hunkered in his hands, the empty whiskey bottle beside him.   She stopped a foot away from him. “Seamus, come with me.”   His legs stopped swinging. He turned to her, his metallic-grey eyes glazed with drink. “What’re you doing here?”   “I’m looking out for you, same as always.” She attempted to keep her tone light. “The weather’s a wee bit fierce up here. The wind and rain are driving my hair sideways.”   Inwardly, she shuddered. He was a sight wearing tattered clothes, his flaming red hair caught in a ponytail.   “And who’s that dodgy bloke behind you?”   “Someone who’s offered to help.” She struggled to control her trembling. Her brother’s big-boned body was precariously close to the edge.   Seamus’s mouth twisted. “It’s better if I end my life. I’m on me tod, I’m all alone.”   She extended a hand. “You’re not alone. I’m here for you.”   Despite the chilly night air, Seamus was sweating. “I long for my wife. My beautiful woman …”   “We all miss Fiona very much.”   Seamus’s fingers found the empty whiskey bottle and flung it into the river. “I’m warning you. Leave me alone or I’ll jump.” Slowly, he stretched out his hands.   “Seamus!” Clara hunched over, sick to her stomach, listening to the hoots and jeers of the spectators.   “Shut your gob!” Seamus hollered to the crowd. “Are ya’ thick?”   Clara caught her breath. Stay calm. Level-headed and composed.   She straightened. “Those people won’t help you, but I will.”   What was she supposed to do now? Move slower, speak gentler? On watery knees, she started forward.   “You’re managing perfectly,” came the whisper behind her.   The guitarist. She’d almost forgotten. His breath was warm and reassuring against her hair.   She extended her hand again. “Please, Seamus, please. Come with me.”   Seamus openly sobbed. “I’m no use to anyone.”   “Think of Anna and me. We’re your sisters and we love you.” Clara tried to smile. “What would I do with myself if you weren’t sleeping on my couch every night? You know I don’t like to be alone.”   Seamus squinted at her. Using his worn shirtsleeve, he wiped at the tear-stained bags under his eyes. “I lost all my money on the horse races. Five hundred euros that I’d borrowed from a friend, and one hundred euros of Anna’s money, too. The bookies were certain Green Dragon would win the second race, but the ponies double-crossed me.”   Clara dug her nails into her palms. “We’ll pay the bookies all the money you lost.” How, she had no idea. Her income as a factory worker and part-time dance teacher was scarcely enough to pay their current living expenses.   In the distance, insistent sirens blared, angry red lights flashed.   “Keep talking,” the guitar player told her.   What to say? The wrong words might send her impulsive brother over the edge. She chanced a peek at the guitarist and lost her footing. Gasping, she held in a scream.   His arms went around her. “I’ve got you,” he said softly.   She steadied herself and shook off his hold. Without making a sound, she ventured another two steps until she stood behind her brother. “We’ll return to my flat and I’ll light a fire in the hearth. Won’t that be grand?” She heard her voice shake, the rale insistent.   “And make me a cuppa tea?” Seamus’s copper-red beard showed days of neglect and grew in dirty spikes below his chin.   She placed her hands firmly on his shoulders and gave a reassuring squeeze. “I’ll brew the entire pot and fry a proper Irish breakfast in the morning.”   Several beats passed. Seamus seemed to be trying desperately to concentrate. He looked up at her. “You don’t cook.”   “I can manage fried eggs and bacon rashers.”   He relaxed beneath her hands.   She licked her lips, her mouth so dry. “Please come home. Please. We’re a family. We’ll work this out together like we always do.”   Seamus rubbed at his eyes, sniffled, and started to stand.   The guitarist stepped around Clara. Carefully, he assisted the wobbling Seamus to his feet.   The crowd applauded. They’d observed every detail of her family’s private business. Clara pressed her lips tightly together, willing herself to think of her brother and nothing else.   Her sobbing brother slumped into her arms. She hugged him for a long time, then roughly shook his shoulders and stared into his bleary eyes. “I understand you’re in a lot of pain. You’ll be independent again, you’ll see. It took me a long time, remember? And now I’m fine.”   “Yeh.” Seamus’s lopsided grin showed missing teeth. He nodded so quickly that he stumbled, so unexpected they both cried out. She clung to his beefy hand, his body still so close to the edge of the bridge, as she stared into the frigid waters of the River Farthing far below.   “You’ll both be safer away from the bridge.” The guitarist’s voice came loud and urgent. He guided Clara and Seamus to the side of the road, removed his jacket and placed it on the damp grass.   “Who are you, bloke?” Seamus asked.   “Danny Brady.” He wheeled, clear in his intent to walk away.   “What about your jacket?” Clara called out.   Danny half turned and looked upward. The clouds had parted, the sky bathed in moonlight and stars. “No rain and no worries. Keep the jacket.”   An emergency vehicle swerved onto the bridge, and Clara squinted into the blinding headlights. Several paramedics sprinted toward her and Seamus. A Channel Four television news van streaked past, reversed, and screeched to a stop. A woman reporter and cameraman leapt from the van and scurried to the guitarist.   Clara recognized the reporter, Maeve Flanagan, an anchorwoman for the local television station. Maeve clutched the microphone, speaking urgently, then held the microphone out for Danny. He spoke lengthily, the bright camera light illuminating his china-blue eyes.   “Where are you from, Brady?” her brother shouted from across the road.   Danny’s handsome face showed signs of fatigue. “Dublin.” He focused on Clara. “Do you have a name, missus?”   “Clara Donovan.” She nodded at her brother. “And this very foolish man is my brother Seamus.”   From across the road, the reporter shouted, “May I quote you, Ms. Donovan?”   Clara stretched out a tired arm. “Absolutely not! And please take your slanderous reporting elsewhere!”   Maeve muffled the mouthpiece with her palm. In a loud voice, she asked, “Do I have permission to make a plea to the community on your behalf, Ms. Donovan? There are resources available for poor—”   Clara cut Maeve off with a wave. Heat flushed through her body. “My family fends for themselves, Miss Flanagan! If you want to do something for us, then stay away!”


About Josie Riviera:
Josie Riviera is a USA TODAY Bestselling Author of contemporary, inspirational, and historical sweet romances that read like Hallmark movies. She lives in the Charlotte, NC, area with her wonderfully supportive husband. They share their home with an adorable Shih Tzu who constantly needs grooming and live in an old house forever needing renovations.

Have you ever tried something you were afraid to try because it mattered so much to you? I did, when I started writing. Take the chance, everyone, and just do something you love.
Connect with Josie Riviera:


Website: Subscribe to her newsletter and receive a free ebook:
http://josieriviera.com/

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Book Tour: THE TEA SHOP

Bestselling Author Bernadette Marie is known for building families readers want to be part of. Her series The Keller Family has graced bestseller charts since its release in 2011. Since then she has authored and published over thirty books. 

The married mother of five sons promises romances with a Happily Ever After always…and says she can write it because she lives it.


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Seeing the future is a curse that Abigail Weston has carried her entire life. Knowing how and when someone will be hurt, or the whereabouts of missing people, haunts her enough to move away from the town that no longer trusts her.
When real estate developer Carson Stone meets the intuitive Abigail, he can't help but feel the connection to her and wonder if love at first sight is possible, especially since they share a passion for old buildings. She believes they all should remain, while he builds new ones in their place.
No matter Abigail's feelings for Carson, knowing that their future is to be together does not ensure them a happily ever after, especially if she can't figure out what the other side is trying to show her--because in her visions Carson's future is dark and cold.


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This book starts in a delightful setting—a tea shop where sandwiches and desserts are served with all sorts of teas for lunch, early tea or high tea. Run by cousins, Abigail and Clare, the shop gets a boost after a visit from Carson who brings Mrs. Winters, since he helps spread the word. Of course, he is enamored with more than the tea once he meets Abigail.
Abigail, with a gift she considers more of a curse—the ability to “see” things either in the future or that have taken place, had hoped this ability would fade once she left her childhood home. However, after coming in physical contact with Mrs. Winters, she sees things, not about the woman, but about Carson. Over time she realizes she has far more connections with Mrs. Winter than she ever knew, as visions and warnings help her protect of those close to her escape dangerous situations. At first she is concerned about what Carson will think of this ability of hers—will it make him suspicious she is up to no good, or will he accept it and be able to live with it?
The characters were well-written, and their reactions to Abigail’s paranormal gift or the situations that arise were believable. I felt the story moved a little too slow at first, but it certainly picked up as it progressed to a happy ending.


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Book Tour: LIVE, LOVE, REPEAT SERIES by Shaunna Gonzales

One life...Trevor Palmer must sink or survive, quite literally. Choosing to manipulate the changing hands of his company for his own good, he relocates to the rough country of Idaho, in searching for his great great grandfather's mine.

Porsche has sworn off all men but meeting Trevor has changed her best laid plans, throwing her resolve to find the perfect man for her sister against her, stumbling head on into the ideal man for herself.

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Living to love...
Trevor Palmer must not only deal with his emotional loss but cope with being wheelchair bound. Paralyzed he must choose to move on with his life or let his misery consume him.
Mercedes has worked hard to get her job as a therapist for a new age rehabilitation clinic but will her creative therapy heal Trevor or bring them both to destruction? Trevor's disability may be more in his head with his Conversion Disorder but it may be physical as well.



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Trevor Palmer is paralyzed from his mining accident but it may be in his head with his Conversion disorder.


Mercedes has worked long and hard to become a therapist for a new age rehabilitation center but will she let her feelings for her patient overshadow her life when a family catastrophe hits her family?


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Shaunna Gonzales currently resides with her family in the greater Seattle area. Married over thirty years, her role as wife and mother of four continue to be her priorities. A storyteller in her youth, she endevored to extend her love of stories to the written word and in 2005 began to write her first novel. Though that manuscript will remain buried, she has continued to learn. Once told by her doctors that she would never leave her wheelchair -- due to her Multiple sclerosis. It has been tucked in a closet while she continues on. (In other words muddles on.)
Shaunna has worked as a professional reviewer for InD'Tales eMagazine for three years. In 2012 she also served as the vice president of Moonwriters, the on-line chapter of American Night Writers Association (ANWA She prefers to write romantic fiction and has ventured into the romantic suspense, and time-travel genres. Her debut novel, Dark Day s of Promise was released by Desert Breeze Publishing in 2012 re-released 2015. Although she prefers to spend her days writing, she is willing to share what she has learned from the school of life and is often found "giving back." 


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The copy I received of the first book in this series was not a full book, so I will leave it to others to review that book. I did read books 2 and 3 in the series.
Book 2, In Her Hands, is a continuation of the story between Trevor and Porsche Roemer after an accident that has left Trevor wounded as much psychologically as physically. He believes Porsche is dead, his belief reinforced by being unable to contact her family in Idaho, the location of his copper mine where the accident took place. However, Porsche is still alive, but in a coma, and she still plays an interesting role in this story. I enjoyed the way the author wrote her character along with the other characters in this book.
Unbeknownst to him, Porsche’s sister, Mercedes, becomes Trevor’s physical therapist once he returns to his home in Las Vegas. As much as the two interact, it seems strange they don’t make this connection, but they are both very private about their feelings regarding Porsche.
Meanwhile, the relationship between the two of them grows. There is a lot of sexually suggestive dialogue in the book—some of it might be typical since Trevor is a young man worried about how he as a paraplegic appears to women. Beyond that, the issues of dealing with health care employees coming into his home and the details about his therapy were interesting, especially in light of his doctor’s  suspicions about the true nature of his disability. I found that even though I did not read the first book in this series, there was enough information in this book that I could read it as a stand-alone without feeling lost because I hadn’t read the first book.
Book 3 in the Live, Love and Repeat series, His Choice, continues the story of Trevor and Mercedes. Some of the same characters from book 2 were also present. It continues Trevor’s progress with his physical therapy he receives from Mercedes, plus he chooses to take more responsibility in his own recovery. He also resolves the true nature of the feelings he had for Mercedes’s sister, Porsche, and his sense of guilt over her loss.
I found the characters engaging in spite of there being quite a bit of sexually suggestive dialogue. It was interesting how the author dealt with the relationship that grew between Trevor and Mercedes. He wished to return to his mine in Idaho, and she refused to return for any length of time to the home where she felt she always lived in her sister’s shadow. And, although Porsche has left her earth life, she still plays an interesting role in this three-book series until the end.


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Wednesday Wonders: THE FORGOTTEN GIRL by Heather Chapman

Today I'm featuring  The Forgotten Girl by Heather Chapman
About The Forgotten Girl :

It is 1906, and sixteen-year-old Stella's life in Durliosy, Poland, is bleak. Her only hope of surviving is to travel to America, a land of freedom and opportunity, and reunite with her brother in Baltimore. There she'll find new challenges, and perhaps, if she can put her painful past behind her, a new chance for love and lasting happiness.
Excerpt:
          My brother shakes his head, and I see his shoulders rise. His eyes are dark, a faraway look in them. "You forget," he says, his voice growing deeper. "Poles are not welcome in America."          I wipe my cheek with my sleeve, praying Jozef did not see the tear roll down it. Not welcome?          My chest feels like it is on fire, and it is as if only my rebuttal can quench it. "We are not welcome in our own country," I say, my eyes falling to the floor.          Jozef lets out a deep grunt, so deep that it rolls throughout the room, bouncing along the floorboards and between the others seated at the table. I lift my head to see his hand twist around the back of the chair as if meant to crush the wood between his fingers. "At least tell me you have not forgotten your Polish pride," he whispers, his voice cracking like a whip against a mule.          I shake my head, too angry and stubborn to say anything in reply. I do not forget. I cannot forget.

My Book Review:
I enjoyed this book very much. Although this novel has its roots in the author’s own family history, it reads like the novel it is, one full of intrigue, challenges, conflict, trials and love, one that touched me emotionally at every turn. Told in the first person, the main character, Stella, is a strong-willed young woman unwilling to accept a life of an impoverished orphan subject to the abuse and control of her older brother and his wife. Although it breaks her heart to leave behind a beloved niece, she yearns to go to America to join another older brother where she hopes to enjoy some freedom and work towards a better future.
Once she arrives in America, finds her brother is not what she thought he was. He and others again threated to take away her freedom for their own benefit. Instead, she finds she must make her own life in a society and subject to laws where women do not have as many rights as men.
The author wrote her characters in a way that was believable and engendered empathy—even for those characters that were less than admirable. The story was a window into a past society. She brought to life the difficulties of a society of lower-class immigrants who spoke very little, if any, English. She touched on the deplorable working conditions and the few enjoyments of the era. Her characters never forgot that as bad as they had it in America, their family members back in the old country had it worse. At least in America, there was hope for a brighter future.  

Purchase links for The Forgotten Girl :
Amazon| Barnes & Noble | Books & things | Deseret Book 

About Heather Chapman:  Heather currently resides in Soda Springs, Idaho, with her husband and four children. She graduated magna cum laude from Brigham Young University. Heather has worked in various administrative assistant roles and as an event planner. Heather has also worked as a piano accompanist and piano teacher on the side. She currently spends her time writing and working as a stay-at-home mother.
Connect with Heather Chapman:
Website  |  Facebook  |  Goodreads

Today I'm featuring The Forgotten Girlby Heather Cha...

Today I'm featuring  The Forgotten Girl by Heather Chapman
About The Forgotten Girl :

It is 1906, and sixteen-year-old Stella's life in Durliosy, Poland, is bleak. Her only hope of surviving is to travel to America, a land of freedom and opportunity, and reunite with her brother in Baltimore. There she'll find new challenges, and perhaps, if she can put her painful past behind her, a new chance for love and lasting happiness.
Excerpt:
          My brother shakes his head, and I see his shoulders rise. His eyes are dark, a faraway look in them. "You forget," he says, his voice growing deeper. "Poles are not welcome in America."          I wipe my cheek with my sleeve, praying Jozef did not see the tear roll down it. Not welcome?          My chest feels like it is on fire, and it is as if only my rebuttal can quench it. "We are not welcome in our own country," I say, my eyes falling to the floor.          Jozef lets out a deep grunt, so deep that it rolls throughout the room, bouncing along the floorboards and between the others seated at the table. I lift my head to see his hand twist around the back of the chair as if meant to crush the wood between his fingers. "At least tell me you have not forgotten your Polish pride," he whispers, his voice cracking like a whip against a mule.          I shake my head, too angry and stubborn to say anything in reply. I do not forget. I cannot forget.

My Book Review:
I enjoyed this book very much. Although this novel has its roots in the author’s own family history, it reads like the novel it is, one full of intrigue, challenges, conflict, trials and love, one that touched me emotionally at every turn. Told in the first person, the main character, Stella, is a strong-willed young woman unwilling to accept a life of an impoverished orphan subject to the abuse and control of her older brother and his wife. Although it breaks her heart to leave behind a beloved niece, she yearns to go to America to join another older brother where she hopes to enjoy some freedom and work towards a better future.
Once she arrives in America, finds her brother is not what she thought he was. He and others again threated to take away her freedom for their own benefit. Instead, she finds she must make her own life in a society and subject to laws where women do not have as many rights as men.
The author wrote her characters in a way that was believable and engendered empathy—even for those characters that were less than admirable. The story was a window into a past society. She brought to life the difficulties of a society of lower-class immigrants who spoke very little, if any, English. She touched on the deplorable working conditions and the few enjoyments of the era. Her characters never forgot that as bad as they had it in America, their family members back in the old country had it worse. At least in America, there was hope for a brighter future.  

Purchase links for The Forgotten Girl :
Amazon| Barnes & Noble | Books & things | Deseret Book 

About Heather Chapman:  Heather currently resides in Soda Springs, Idaho, with her husband and four children. She graduated magna cum laude from Brigham Young University. Heather has worked in various administrative assistant roles and as an event planner. Heather has also worked as a piano accompanist and piano teacher on the side. She currently spends her time writing and working as a stay-at-home mother.
Connect with Heather Chapman:
Website  |  Facebook  |  Goodreads