Regan Walker's Blog: Regan's Author Blog, page 13

Best Viking Romances... the list is up!

Every now and then I love a good Viking Romance. Not fantasy, not paranormal, just straight up historical romance from the time of the raiding Northmen. The Viking Age was that part of the medieval period from the end of the 8th century to the middle of the 11th century, although there are Norsemen still around beyond that. It was an age of valiant and sometimes ruthless warriors and raiders.

There’s nothing like a Viking raid and a strapping tall warrior to get your blood boiling, right? Well, of course, it must be well done and we want a strong heroine to give the guy some grief. And a little history thrown in doesn’t hurt either. If you like ‘em, you can see my list of the best HERE.

What you might not know about Vikings!

In my research for my Medieval Warriors series, I have learned much about the Nordic peoples who at one time raided and ultimately settled in England and Scotland. These included the Danes, who settled in Yorkshire and what became known as the Danelaw, as well as other Nordic groups. There were also Danes who remained in Denmark, which in 1069, launched 240 longships against William the Conqueror.

To write scenes in the home of my half-Danish heroine in York for Rogue Knight, I had to understand the names, the personal grooming habits and the clothing, even the jewelry. And for Rebel Warrior, I had to know their preferred weapons and whether the leader of a raiding band might have dark hair. Here are some of the things I discovered about “Vikings” along the way. See more.

Happy Hogmanay!

Only one nation in the world celebrates the New Year—or as they call it, Hogmanay—with unparalleled revelry and passion – Scotland! What are the origins of Hogmanay, and why should a tall dark stranger be a welcome visitor after midnight?
 
It is believed that many of the traditional Hogmanay celebrations were originally brought to Scotland by the invading Vikings in the early 8th and 9th centuries. These Norsemen, or men from an even more northerly latitude than Scotland, paid particular attention to the arrival of the Winter Solstice or the shortest day, and fully intended to celebrate its passing with some serious partying.
 
There are several traditions and superstitions that should be taken care of before midnight on December 31st: cleaning the house and taking out the ashes from the fire; and clearing of all debts before "the bells" sound midnight, the underlying message being to clear out the remains of the old year and have a clean break and welcome in a young, New Year on a happy note.
 
Immediately after midnight it is traditional to sing Robert Burns’ Auld Lang Syne. An integral part of the Hogmanay party, which is continued with equal enthusiasm today, is to welcome friends and strangers with warm hospitality, whisky and, of course, lots of enforced kissing for all.
 
"First footing" (or the "first foot" in the house after midnight) is still common across Scotland. To ensure good luck for the house, the first foot should be a dark-haired male, and he should bring with him symbolic pieces of coal, shortbread, salt, black bun and a wee dram of whisky. The dark male bit is believed to be a throwback to the Viking days, when a big blond stranger arriving on your doorstep with an axe in hand meant big trouble, and probably not a very happy New Year!
 
As you celebrate the coming New Year, remember what a glorious celebration it is in Scotland!

December 23rd, 2016

It’s that time of year when I share my favorite heroes and heroines. I have read and reviewed over 900 historical romances and in those novels that I have rated 5-stars there are some wonderful heroes and heroines…noble men who overcome tortured pasts, flaws and the odds against them to love; and heroines who persist against great obstacles to be with the man to whom they would give their heart—strong, intelligent women of character. Every one a worthy hero and heroine. See the list!

Writing a Christmas Regency Romance...

I have written two Christmas stories set in Regency London, The Twelfth Night Wager and The Holly & The Thistle. What is important when setting a story during a holiday? And how do you capture the traditions of that special time, be Christmastide or Twelfth Night without taking the romance from center stage? The reader wants to experience the love story and love the characters while also experiencing the holiday. And if you are like me, you also want to include the history of the period and enough of the speech and customs to make it real. See more.

Best Victorian Romances!

The Victorian era generally began in 1837 (the year Victoria became Queen) and ended in 1901 (the year of her death). The common perception of the period is the Victorians were “prudish, hypocritical, stuffy and narrow-minded”.  But these perceptions were not always accurate, as you will see in the romances on my new "best list". While fiction, they will give you the flavor of the Victorian era. See the list here.

New Release! The Refuge: An Inspirational Novel of Scotland

“Phenomenal storytelling and world building with a romance that is touching and will have you cheering as well as shedding a few tears. If you've ever questioned your faith, this will make your soul smile. Very well done!”   – The Reading Cafe
 
“… beautifully layered with true historic figures and authentic history of Scotland woven into a creative and intriguing story. A spectacular, riveting adventure… 5 Stars!”  –Tartan Book Reviews
 
“The historical detail was rich and full flavored, giving me a very realistic feel for the time. The romance was sweet and fulfilling and the faith aspects done perfectly.”
                                                                 –  Paula Quinn, NY Times Bestselling Author
On Amazon US and UK.

All profits from The Refuge go to the Christian Alliance for Orphans.

Best Historical Romance Trilogies!

It takes talent to write a great historical romance novel (as an author, I know), but to write three in a row and make them all worthy reads is an even greater challenge. Of course, I recognize this omits some wonderful single titles and some great multibook series, but if you like to read trilogies, as I do, take a look at the list of the ones I recommend HERE.

November 04th, 2016

He painted in the Victorian era, but his heart was in the past... The Middle Ages and the Regency era were among his chosen subjects. See his art and read more about this gifted artist on Historical Romance Review.

My first inspirational romance... The Refuge: An Inspirational Novel of Scotland

My first inspirational romance, the inspirational version of Rebel Warrior, is available now for preorder on Amazon to release Nov. 22nd. With it's gorgeous paperback cover (the image wraps around), it will make a nice Christmas gift. At a time when spirits can be low, this one is designed to encourage you. And all profits from this book will go to the Christian Alliance for Orphans.

"If you've ever questioned your faith, this will make your soul smile. Very well done!”   – The Reading Cafe

The short description:

Scotland 1072

The Norman Conqueror robbed Steinar of Talisand of his noble father and his lands, forcing him to seek refuge in Scotland while still recovering from a devastating wound. At the royal court, Steinar becomes scribe to the unlettered King of Scots while secretly regaining his skill with a sword.
 
The first time Steinar glimpses the flame-haired maiden, Catrìona of the Vale of Leven, he is drawn to her spirited beauty. She does not fit among the ladies who have come to serve the devout queen. Not pious, not obedient and not given to stitchery, the firebrand flies a falcon!
 
Catrìona has come to Malcolm’s court wounded in spirit from the vicious attack on her home by Northmen who slayed her parents and her people. But that is not all she will suffer. The king has promised her to one of his favored warriors, but she has given her heart to a lowly scribe.

 When all is lost, what hope is there for love? Can a broken heart be mended? Can a damaged soul be healed?