Mary Morgan's Blog, page 26

Friday Feast | A Return to Dragon Knight's Sword

Once again, I'm reminiscing about the Dragon Knights this month. Why? Today marks the seventh anniversary of the worldwide release of Dragon Knight's Sword, Order of the Dragon Knights, Book 1! Much has transpired since that day--good and bad. Yet the journey has been amazing, and I'm blessed with such wonderful readers. My sincere thanks to you! You've walked this road with me. I shall always treasure the friendships, emails, letters, gifts, and meeting many at book signing events. Trust me, I'm not finished with the Dragon Knights. There are their children, especially a powerful Dragon Knight called James (Jamie) MacFhearguis.

For now, let's travel back in time with Duncan and Brigid from Dragon Knight's Sword. Do you remember the curse? Or was it really a curse?

“Across the sea your destiny awaits.

To right a wrong within this place.

Beneath the gate to test their fate.

Return this sword to its rightful place.”

—Clan Mor Mac Aoidh/MacKay

With each Dragon Knight's story, the words changed a wee bit as they sought their path to redemption.

As a special treat, Dragon Knight's Sword is on sale for 99¢ (digital copy only).

AMAZON | BARNES & NOBLE | APPLE BOOKS

One of Duncan's favorite treats was Damson Tarts. The recipe below was included in another post last year, but I've decided to repost again in his honor. It was his only request to me and to also include a favorite from Brigid. How could I deny this Dragon Knight? This couple shall always have a special place in my heart...

,Sláinte mhath!

Duncan's Damson (Plum) Tarts

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour

3/4 cup finely chopped almonds

3/4 cup light brown sugar, lightly packed

12 tablespoons cold unsalted butter (1 1/2 sticks), diced

1 egg yolk

2 pounds firm, ripe plums (or damsons), pitted and quartered lengthwise

Directions

Preheat oven to 400 degrees

Combine the flour, almonds, and sugar in a large bowl. Add the butter and the egg yolk. Mix by hand or with an electric mixer, until crumbly.

Press 1 1/2 cups of the crumb mixture in an even layer into the bottom of a 9 1/2-inch springform or tart pan. Arrange the plums in the pan, skin side down to form a flower pattern; begin at the outside and work your way in.

Sprinkle the rest of the crumb mixture evenly over the plums. Bake the tart for 40 to 50 minutes, or until it’s lightly browned and the plum juices are bubbling.

Remove from the oven and cool for 10 minutes. Remove from pan and transfer tart to flat plate.

Serve with a dollop of whipped cream.

***Damson: A small fruit with vibrant, dark blue skin and a strong sour flavor. Damsons are similar to plums. They have a large stone (pit) and are often juicy, but tend not to be eaten raw due to the tartness of their flesh.

Brigid's Mushrooms in Cream

Ingredients

1-pound of mushrooms (your choice)

2 tablespoons of melted butter

1 cup heavy cream

Fresh thyme (approx. 1 tablespoon)

Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Sea salt and pepper

Directions

Preheat oven to 400 degrees

Clean mushrooms.

Place in a buttered baking dish and drizzle the melted butter over the mushrooms.

Put in oven for approximately 3-5 minutes until soft.

Remove dish and pour cream over the top. Return to oven and heat (do not boil) for another couple minutes.

Sprinkle with fresh thyme and season with salt, pepper, and cheese.

Spotlight Cover Reveal "A Pride of Brothers: Aiden" by Peggy Jaeger

I'm delighted to have my dear friend and sister rose (The Wild Rose Press, Inc.) Peggy Jaeger in the Tavern today! We're celebrating her stunning new cover for her upcoming new release, A Pride of Brothers: Aiden, Book 2 in this romantic suspense series! Grab a glass of champagne and let's take a peek at Peggy's new cover and preview...

Lexi Buckley wants answers about her younger sister's death. The police have labeled it a suicide, but Lexi doesn't believe it. Stymied in her investigation, she doesn't know where to turn next. After a chance encounter with a private investigator, she thinks her prayers have been answered.

Aiden Keane has never been an answer to a prayer before, but he agrees to help Lexi. A quirky combo of brains and beauty, the pixie blonde makes him feel things no professional ever should for a client.

When their investigation puts Lexi's life in jeopardy, her safety becomes his number one priority. The hard part is not falling for her.

Sneak preview from A Pride of Brothers: Aiden

Were you close with your sister?” Aiden asked.

Not the way we should have been. Not at the end.

“We had a sizable age difference between us. Almost ten years. I was the big sis. The oldest.” Her lips trembled when she pulled them into a sad line. Rolling her eyes she added, “The bossy one, according to her. She was the baby and took full advantage of her status from the moment she realized it.”

“And rightly so.” The corners of his eyes crinkled. “I’m the youngest of my brothers and I’ll can tell you with one hundred percent honesty, my oldest brother is the bossiest one of us. I think it comes with birth order. Although he takes his so called right uber-seriously. Especially at work.”

This time her grin was steadier. “What kind of business do you all own together?”

“We a run a private security company.”

“Security?”

“Personal bodyguards, if a client needs protection from something. Background checks for employers. Mostly we do investigations.”

“What, like private eyes? Like on television?”

He laughed. “Nothing so glamorous. The fast cars and hot babes are all fantasy. It’s a lot of boring research, computer work, and surveillance, but yeah, you could say I’m a private eye.”

Lexi’s entire mood turned on his words. The sorrow flew, the hurt dissolved. Even her nervous trivia-speak went dormant. She sat bolt upright, her knees bumping against the tabletop when she shifted. Excitement shot from her system as she turned her body, placed a hand across his forearm and declared, “Oh, my God. You’re the answer to my prayers.”

A PRIDE OF BROTHERS: RICK is available now across all digital media and in print ,HERE!

Friday Feast | Cozy Teapots

Yes, yes, I realize I've been absent from the Tavern. I won't even begin to explain how crazy this month has been. Between losing a week due to the second vaccine injection (major side issues and fatigue), and then to another one when my wonderful family came to visit, I haven't had a chance to pop in here.

So how do I unwind after a hectic (but fun) several weeks? Or even a busy day? It's always a good cup of tea. I love the ritual of preparing the pot or even a simple cup. Did I mention I adore teapots? The photos below are a small sample of my collection. Even when I pulled them down from the shelves to snap some photos, they brought a smile to my face.

A few of my elegant teapots

When I'm in a whimsical mood, these are some of my treasured teapots

And no teapot should be without a tea cozy! The one at the bottom (with flowers) was made by my mother. The thistle tea cozy was purchased in Scotland, and the "Peter Rabbit" tea cozy was an instant buy on a trip to the Lake District in England.

Of course, when you give me a cup of tea, I'd love to have a biscuit (cookie) or scone.

Until next week my friends, may you find a quiet corner for a cuppa...

Mary’s Sweet Scones

Ingredients

2 ½ cups all-purpose

1 tablespoon baking powder

½ teaspoon salt

1 stick (8 tablespoon) cold unsalted butter, cut up

1/3 cup sugar

2/3 cup heavy cream

Whipped cream and jam for serving

Directions

Heat oven to 425 F.

Put flour, baking powder, and salt into a large bowl. Whisk until combined.

Add butter and cut in with a pastry blender or rub in with your fingers.

Add sugar and toss well.

Add heavy cream and stir with a fork until a soft dough forms. Form dough into a ball and place on a floured board. Knead dough 10-15 times.

Cut dough in half. Knead each half light and form into a 6-inch circle.

Cut each circle into 6-8 wedges.

Place wedges on an ungreased baking sheet.

Bake approximately 12 minutes, or until slightly brown on top.

Serve warm with fresh whipped cream and jam.

The Coffee Pot Book Club Presents "The Usurper King" by Mercedes Rochelle

Please welcome back to the Tavern the lovely Mercedes Rochelle! We're celebrating her new historical novel, The Usurper King (The Plantagenet Legacy, Book 3). I'm eager to find out more, so grab a cup of mead and let's take a peek into Mercedes's intriguing story...

From Outlaw to Usurper, Henry Bolingbroke fought one rebellion after another.

First, he led his own uprising. Gathering support the day he returned from exile, Henry marched across the country and vanquished the forsaken Richard II. Little did he realize that his problems were only just beginning. How does a usurper prove his legitimacy? What to do with the deposed king? Only three months after he took the crown, Henry IV had to face a rebellion led by Richard's disgruntled favorites. Worse yet, he was harassed by rumors of Richard's return to claim the throne. His own supporters were turning against him. How to control the overweening Percies, who were already demanding more than he could give? What to do with the rebellious Welsh? After only three years, the horrific Battle of Shrewsbury nearly cost him the throne—and his life. It didn't take long for Henry to discover that that having the kingship was much less rewarding than striving for it.

Available from these online retailers

,AMAZON UK | ,AMAZON US

Sneak preview from The Usurper King

The Day after Henry Bolingbroke returned from exile

"My lord, a small band of warriors are approaching bearing Percy arms."

"Percy?" Henry whirled around, touching Erpingham who was distracted by the ship's captain. "Thomas, why would Percy be here?"

"Which Percy?" Erpingham asked.

"The younger, I believe," said the knight.

"Hotspur," Henry said to himself. "He's Warden of the East March of Scotland if I'm not mistaken." He glanced at the knight. "You say he has only a small group?"

"I counted six men."

"Not enough to attack us, unless more are in hiding."

"Let us greet him," Erpingham said. "Best to deal with him directly."

Both Henry and Thomas knew Harry Hotspur well, so-named by the Scots because he was always ready to dash into battle. Just a few years older than Henry, he had also distinguished himself at the St. Inglevert tournament. They had spent many long evenings drinking and feasting together in those heady days, but once the festivities were over they had not crossed paths since. Hotspur and his father, Henry Percy, Earl of Northumberland had their hands full keeping peace in the Marches, and their experience with the restive Scots was invaluable.

Henry was well aware that the Percies were pivotal in his upcoming struggle. They were the most powerful force in the North, by far. Their only rival was Ralph Neville, the Earl of Westmorland—a new earl, one of King Richard's derisively named duketti. He was given his new title after the Revenge Parliament that condemned the Appellants. Bolingbroke was counting on Westmorland as a potential ally because Ralph had recently married his half-sister Joan Beaufort. At the same time, Henry knew that the Percies weren't going to let Neville get ahead of them when there was a chance to grab more power. So he was relatively certain he could induce them to support him as well.

But he wasn't prepared to face them so soon! At least he only had to confront the son; the father would ride roughshod over any perceived threat. Still, Henry wasn't sure how to manage Harry yet. He was well aware that by law, Percy could use his office to arrest him as a declared outlaw. Or at least he could try.

As Hotspur and his followers entered through the gates of the priory, Henry, Arundel, and Erpingham were waiting for them in the courtyard. "My lord, what a surprise to see you here," said Henry, holding the reins of Hotspur's horse.

Dismounting, Harry brushed his hands across his legs. "Dusty out there," he said amiably. "One of your messengers rode across my land and naturally I questioned him. I was at my manor of Seamer, which is only about twelve miles away."

"What brings you so far south?" Henry asked, pretending not to be concerned. As Warden of the East March of Scotland, Hotspur spent most of his time in Northumberland—not here, in Yorkshire. Putting on his most amiable expression, Henry led the others into the priory where the good friars laid out food and drink for them.

"I came to collect payment from the exchequer for my services as warden." Hotspur accepted a mug of ale from a servant. "I think it would be more appropriate to ask what you are doing here?" He softened the remark with a smile.

It was hard to resist his grin. Harry had a certain openness about him that invited trust. Tall, bearded, brown-haired, sincere, and intense, Percy's son was well-known for his honesty and chivalry. He was the opposite of his brusque father.

Henry was not immune to Hotspur's charm. "I have come back to reclaim my patrimony, which was unjustly taken from me," he answered softly. For a moment there was silence around the table.

"I think my father received a letter from you last month."

Henry grunted. He had sent letters to both of them. "What happened to me concerns us all," he said in earnest.

Young Thomas FitzAlan walked into the room. Henry pointed to him. "Harry, this is Thomas Arundel, son of the late Earl Richard. Like me, he comes to reclaim his earldom. Thomas, meet Sir Harry Percy, son of the Earl of Northumberland." The lad came forward and bowed.

"And this is his uncle Thomas, the Archbishop of Canterbury," Henry continued. "I don't believe you ever met."

Arundel nodded. Hotspur gave him a long look; he knew the archbishop had also been outlawed. "I don't think we have," he said finally. "Well met, your Grace. I see you all have the same purpose in returning to England."

"There are injustices that need to be put to right," Henry said. "I hope to gather enough support to convince King Richard he must reverse his unlawful decisions."

"I see." Harry looked around the room. "It appears you have made a modest start."

Despite himself, Henry blushed. "I came with my closest companions, who accompanied me to France. I have faith my Lancastrian affinity will swell my ranks."

Percy nodded. Again his smile rescued an uncomfortable situation. "I have no doubt. King Richard's policies have even disturbed our stability in the North."

Was that an invitation? "You must know I have great respect for your family. Between your lordship and Lancaster—and the Nevilles, secondarily—the North is a force to be reckoned with."

Hotspur nodded, uncommitted.

"I would have you with me, Harry."

Taking a sip of his ale, Hotspur looked at the table. "You're asking for much, my lord."

"Duke Henry speaks for all the nobles in the land," interjected the archbishop. "If Richard could take away the great Lancastrian patrimony with a strike of his quill, what's to stop him from doing the same to everyone else?"

"Or declaring a loyal subject a traitor?" added Henry, unable to suppress his bitterness. "We are all at the mercy of his impulses." He sensed Hotspur's resistance was half-hearted, and his heart pounded in response.

"We've considered that, ourselves," Harry said. He turned his whole body, facing Henry. "What are your real intentions?"

Blinking, Henry drew himself up. "I have stated them. I came here to reclaim my own."

"Nothing more?"

Henry didn't know whether to be surprised or offended. But, he admitted to himself, that question was going to be asked again and again. There was no easy way to put this. "Are you wondering if I covet the throne?"

There. It was said. For the first time.

"It crossed my mind." Hotspur stared at him, trying to measure his honesty. Henry shook his head.

"I have no interest in Richard's crown. The Lancastrian inheritance is more than enough."

"How do you intend to convince the king, as you say?"

Henry pursed his lips. It was a fair question. "It won't be easy. I think, as in the past, a group of magnates," he said slowly, "if united by a common goal, can force an obstinate king to rule more wisely, with their help."

"We don't have to look any farther back than 1387," Arundel asserted. "The parliamentary Continual Council was only established for one year. It would need to be permanent this time."

"There were other examples," Percy mused. "The Council of Fifteen under Simon de Montfort. Or more lately, the Lords Ordainers against Edward II. Both ended badly for the barons if I'm not mistaken. We don't even need to talk about the Lords Appellant."

Henry squirmed uncomfortably. Percy was right. But he had to try again. "This time around, the king has no powerful supporters. Richard's new appointees have no teeth. Besides, they are with him in Ireland."

"Perhaps." Hotspur turned his cup in his hand.

"Between the Lancastrian affinity and the North, I trust, we will prove an irresistible force." Henry leaned forward. "I am prepared to pay the wages of any men who choose to follow me."

"Ah, that will be a great benefit." Percy cocked his head. "You have no intention of usurping the king?"

"None."

"Are you prepared to swear an oath?"

Without hesitation, Henry put a hand on Percy's arm. "My lord, I will do so at once."

Getting up and gesturing for everyone in the room to follow, Henry called for a monk to meet them in the chapel. They approached the altar and waited while the brother reverently unlocked a casket and produced a bible. Henry knelt, putting his hand on the precious volume.

"I swear, before this room full of witnesses and God himself, my only intent in returning to England is to reclaim my inheritance. By the grace of God, I will recover my patrimony and serve the king as a loyal subject."

He held his hand on the bible as every man crossed himself. Then he stood, a reverential glow on his face. "Are you with me, Harry?"

Percy was suitably impressed by his sincerity. Only hesitating for a moment, he extended his hand. "You may count on me. I will go at once to my father so we can gather our resources."

Meet the Author

Mercedes Rochelle is an ardent lover of medieval history, and has channeled this interest into fiction writing. Her first four books cover eleventh-century Britain and events surrounding the Norman Conquest of England. The next series is called The Plantagenet Legacy about the struggles and abdication of Richard II, leading to the troubled reigns of the Lancastrian Kings. She also writes a blog: HistoricalBritainBlog.com to explore the history behind the story. Born in St. Louis, MO, she received by BA in Literature at the Univ. of Missouri St.Louis in 1979 then moved to New York in 1982 while in her mid-20s to “see the world”. The search hasn’t ended! Today she lives in Sergeantsville, NJ with her husband in a log home they had built themselves.

Connect with Mercedes here ~

,WEBSITE | ,BLOG | ,FACEBOOK | ,TWITTER | ,BOOKBUB | ,AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE | ,GOODREADS

The Coffee Pot Book Club Presents "The Queen's Rival" by Anne O'Brien

Please make welcome to the Tavern the lovely Anne O'Brien! We're celebrating her new release blog tour for her historical novel, The Queen's Rival. I'm eager to find out more, so grab a cup of mead and let's take a peek into Anne's intriguing story...

England, 1459.

One family united by blood. Torn apart by war…

The Wars of the Roses storm through the country, and Cecily Neville, Duchess of York, plots to topple the weak-minded King Henry VI from the throne.

But when the Yorkists are defeated at the battle of Ludford Bridge, Cecily’s family flee and abandon her to face a marauding Lancastrian army on her own.

Stripped of her lands and imprisoned in Tonbridge Castle, the Duchess begins to spin a web of deceit. One that will eventually lead to treason, to the fall of King Henry VI, and to her eldest son being crowned King Edward IV.

Available from these online retailers

,AMAZON UK | ,AMAZON US | ,AMAZON CA | ,AMAZON AU |

,BARNES AND NOBLE | ,WATERSTONES | ,KOBO | ,AUDIO | ,BLACKWELLS | ,WHSMITH

A Sneak Preview from The Queen's Rival

Cecily, Duchess of York, to my youngest son Diccon, on the occasion of his seventh birthday celebrated here at Ludlow, on the second day of October in the year 1459

Today, my son, we mark the day of your birth.

You will have unwrapped your gifts by now, among them a fine dagger from your father with a damascened blade. He persuades me that you are old enough to own such a weapon. It belonged to him when he was a boy. He has the scars to prove it. Ask him to show you them when he has a moment of leisure. It is not a bauble and you should treat it with respect. I will confiscate it if you use it unwisely.

From me you will have discovered the book of stories of Greek heroes which you are now able to read. They all use their swords and daggers with care.

Enjoy the special day, with all the family here together, although you will be disappointed that the promised tournament will not happen. Your father has much on his mind with so many of our soldiers billeted in the castle and in the town, but your brothers have something planned so that the day does not go unmarked. The cook will make your favourite Payn Ragoun to be served at the end of dinner; it is the day of your birth so I will accept a little indulgence.

Remember to thank the Blessed Virgin Mary for your life and health.

Remember your duty to God and to the King, whatever happens in the coming days.

Remember your duty to your family of York.

Do not forget to attend Mass.

I have also given you an illuminated Book of Hours that belonged to me when I was a young girl. I know that you will be tempted to write in your own birth-date in the page of October. Do not do so. It is a masterpiece of clerkish work and will not benefit from your scrawl in the margins.

From your loving mother,

Cecily, Duchess of York

To my Lady Mother, Duchess Cecily, on the evening of this second day of October 1459

My tutor says that I must give you gracious thanks for the gifts, and prove that I can write well.

My father showed me the scar where his first dagger hacked into his wrist when he was skinning a rabbit. I promise I will not do that. My father said that he was too busy to show me the rest. I have not written in my Book of Hours. But one day I will. One day I think it will be important to me to mark the day of my birth. I promise I will write it neatly.

I have started to read the book of Greek heroes. I have decided I would wish to be like Achilles, to live bravely and to die well, even if I am not very old when I meet my doom.

I enjoyed the Payn Ragoun, although George ate more than I did. He says it is his right because he is three years older than I am.

I hope it makes his teeth drop out.

I have also had to hide my new dagger from him.

From your dutiful son,

Diccon

Cecily, Duchess of York, to her son George

I wish to see you in my chamber immediately after Mass.

It has come to my notice that you have not yet learned the les­sons of either generosity or humility, or family affection. Gluttony, I must warn you, is also a sin.

Do not put me to the trouble of coming to find you in the stables. You will not enjoy the consequences.

Because I know that you will take heed and learn from your mistakes, I remain your loving mother.

Cecily, Duchess of York

Cecily, Duchess of York, for the immediate attention of the Duke of York

Richard,

I warned you that Diccon was too young for such a gift. George is suffering from a severe attack of envy so that Diccon has already had to fight to keep possession of his dagger. They have both been blooded and show signs of battle, but our younger son has emerged victorious. He might lack the physical bulk of George but his spirit is strong.

I advise you to make no mention of their colourful afflictions when you next see them. Do not praise them for any false courage. I have dealt with the matter.

I think this will find you before I do, when you at last return to the castle.

I know that you have much on your mind and that you will say, rightly, that it is my role to supervise the education of our sons, but sometimes a word of paternal admonishing would not go amiss.

In exasperation,

Your loving wife,

Cis

Meet the Author

Sunday Times Bestselling author Anne O’Brien was born in West Yorkshire. After gaining a BA Honours degree in History at Manchester University and a Master’s in Education at Hull, she lived in East Yorkshire for many years as a teacher of history.

Today she has sold over 700,000 copies of her books medieval history novels in the UK and internationally. She lives with her husband in an eighteenth-century timber-framed cottage in the depths of the Welsh Marches in Herefordshire. The area provides endless inspiration for her novels which breathe life into the forgotten women of medieval history.

Connect with Anne here

,Website | ,Twitter | ,Facebook | ,LinkedIn | ,Pinterest | ,Amazon Author Page | ,Goodreads | ,Newsletter Sign-up

Cover Reveal and Giveaway for RORIK

I'm thrilled to announce some fabulous news, my friends! Not only am I revealing the stunning cover for Rorik, The Wolves of Clan Sutherland, Book 2, but the book is available for preorder on Amazon! More buy links to follow in the next couple weeks. I can hardly wait to share Rorik and Ragna's love story with you.

Until then, mark your calendars for another Wolves of Clan Sutherland story! Release date: 6.30.21

The Dark Seducer is known throughout Scotland as a man who charms many women into his bed. Pleasure is his motto as he obtains information for his king. Yet Rorik MacNeil harbors one secret buried beneath his heart of steel. An unfulfilled conquest plagues both man and his inner wolf, and Rorik would rather suffer death’s sharp blade than confront his greatest fear.

As the Seer for the Orkneyjar Isles, Ragna Maddadsson confronts an unknown destiny when she travels across the North Sea to Scotland. In her quest to deliver a message from a powerful vision, she fears the warrior will not listen. If Rorik ignores her warning, Ragna must find a way to forestall his impending death. If unsuccessful, she risks having her heart cleaved in two.

To unravel their true fates, Rorik and Ragna must trust in the power of the wolf.

Available for preorder at

AMAZON | AMAZON CA | AMAZON UK | AMAZON AU

Giveaway Alert

Enter to win a $25 Amazon gift card here:

,https://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/92db7750110

Open to US/Canada only.

Runs May 10 – May 19, 2021.

Winner will be drawn on May 20, 2021.

Medieval Monday Concludes with "The Highlander's Reward" by Eliza Knight

Welcome to Medieval Monday Blog Hop! We're on the last week of our theme of First Kiss, and I hope you've found some new medieval authors to add to your list of reading.

I'm delighted to host a new medieval author in our group. My guest today is the lovely Eliza Knight! She's sharing a snippet from her wonderful Scottish medieval romance, The Highlander's Reward, The Stolen Bride Series.

Don't forget to check out the Medieval Romance Lovers facebook page ,here to check out the other authors' links to their posts and the Friday Fun Giveaways!

If you're following along with my snippets from Magnar, hop on over to Eliza's blog ,here!

Happy Reading!

Snippet from The Highlander's Reward

Magnus let her go then, watching the gentle sway of her hips as she went. Her innocent kiss still burned on his lips. He would have a hard time keeping his promise. But getting her to ask him for a kiss and more would be a thrilling challenge. One he fully intended to succeed at—sooner rather than later.

Lady Arbella de Mowbray abhors the idea of marrying an English noble occupying Scotland. When she arrives in Stirling, she is thrown into the midst of a full battle between the Scots and the English. Besieged by rebels, she is whisked from her horse by a Highland warrior who promises her safety. But when he kisses her, she fears she's more in danger of losing herself.

The last thing Magnus Sutherland wants is to marry the beautiful English lass he saved. As the laird of his clan, he has a responsibility to his clan and allies. But when Arbella is attacked by one of his own men, he determines the only way to keep her safe is to make her his. A decision that promises to be extremely satisfying.

Magnus brings Arbella to his home of Dunrobin Castle in the Highlands. And that’s where the trouble begins… Their countries are at war and they should be each other’s enemy. Neither one considered their mock marriage would grow into a deeply passionate love. What’s more, they were both unhappily betrothed and those who've been scorned are out for revenge. Can their new found love keep them together or will their enemies tear them apart?

"For fans of Highlander romance, this series is a must read!" ~ Night Owl Reviews, TOP PICK!

Available from these online retailers

,AMAZON | ,APPLEBOOKS | ,B&N | ,KOBO

Friday Feast | A Side of Delicious Green Beans and Book Sale

Welcome to Friday Feast in the Tavern! Yes, I love my vegetables and this dish is one I make a lot. It's also a recipe that can be tweaked (as I often profess) to include other ingredients. Once, I sprinkled some cooked bacon throughout. Simply delicious! If there was more room in my garden, I would grow beans.

What's growing in your garden? Do share!

Green beans, Mushrooms, Garlic, and Leeks

3 gloves garlic, chopped

1 medium leek, washed and sliced

1-2lbs mixed mushrooms (I like to use Crimini, white, and Portobello)

½ lb green beans, washed and trimmed

2 tablespoons Herbed Olive Oil (or whatever your preference)

1 tablespoon butter

Salt and pepper

½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Grated parmesan cheese

Add butter and olive oil to a frying pan. Toss in the chopped garlic and let soften for about 1 minute.

Add in the leeks and cook for 5 minutes.

Add the mushrooms and cook for 5-8 minutes.

Add the green beans and cook until tender, but still has a bit of crunch. Approximately 10 minutes.

Season with salt, pepper and red pepper flakes.

Remove from heat and sprinkle with parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil

To make everything easy peasy, I get my leeks in a package from Trader Joes

If you haven't heard, Magnar is on sale for 99¢! Grab your digital copy today! And stay tuned for more exciting news next week!

Available from these online retailers

,AMAZON | ,B&N | ,APPLEBOOKS

Fate and Free Wills in "LEIF, Viking Glory" by Celeste Barclay

Welcome to Medieval Monday Blog Hop! We're on week thirteen (only one more week) of our theme of First Kiss, and I'm thrilled to host a new medieval author in our group. My guest today is the lovely Celeste Barclay! She's sharing a snippet from her wonderful Viking medieval romance, Leif, Viking Glory, Book 1.

Don't forget to check out the Medieval Romance Lovers facebook page ,here to check out the other authors' links to their posts and the Friday Fun Giveaways!

If you're following along with my snippets from Magnar, hop on over to Celeste's blog ,here!

Happy Reading!

A Snippet from LEIF, Viking Glory

Sigrid was slow to answer. She accepted her destiny years ago, and her visions of Leif had her falling in love with him before she grew into a woman. Sigrid knew this situation was new to him, and she had no desire to scare him away. Sigrid would not force a marriage onto him if he did not want it. She could only show him what she knew from past prophecies. It would be his choice to accept or rebel.

“Should I take your silence for what it seems? You don’t wish to wed me but will do so because you believe this is your fate.”

Check out last week’s with Ashley York:

,https://www.ashleyyorkauthor.com/blog-old

Follow along next week with Barb Bettis: ,http://www.barbarabettis.com/index.php/blog/

Fate brought them together. Free will binds them.

After months at sea, Leif Ivarrson wants nothing more than to revel in the comforts of home. Yet when word arrives that a new threat has invaded their land, Leif is forced to take up his sword once more. Tasked with rescuing a jarl’s niece, Sigrid, from this malicious enemy, Leif departs on a journey that will alter the course of his fate.

Since she was a young girl, Sigrid Torbensdóttir’s visions have been both a blessing and a curse. Now a grown woman and powerful seer, she knew enemies would come for her, eager to exploit her gift. Yet her visions taught her that fate could not be denied or ignored. As she had foreseen it, the heroic Viking would save her and sweep them both up in the raging storm of inescapable destiny.

Drawn together by the will of the gods, Leif and Sigrid battle to save their people from a rival tribe’s scramble for power. Will their blossoming love survive the tests of war and family? Can a match created by fate withstand the machinations of man?

Set sail for adventure in this steamy Viking romance sure to leave you breathless! Norse lore meets passion and intrigue in Leif, written by Celeste Barclay!

Buy Links: ,www.books2read.com/leifvikingglory

Friday Feast | Recipe Cards and Beltane

Welcome to Beltane Eve and Friday Feast! I can't believe May is right around the corner! Can you? Sunshine, (well, in some places of the world), new life, laughter, and dancing. The night before is called Beltane Eve (which is tonight) in the Celtic world. It is said that on this night the faeries ride out into the world from their deep dwellings within the land. A magical time filled with great joy. May Day or Beltane also marks the beginning of summer, as well. Celebrations are held outdoors and no work is to be done.

My celebrations are simple ~ To enjoy our wonderful sunshine in my garden and organize (for the umpteenth time) my recipe card collection. This particular set of cards are verra old, and the box even older. How old? Approximately 45 years. Many are ones I wrote down as a young adult. Yet I spy one that my mom wrote. It's a recipe she would make for my dad: Fried Green Tomatoes.

Most of these well-loved recipes are so faded I've had to write over them several times. This cherished (and most requested) holiday recipe below is a family favorite. I have no plans on transferring the recipe to a new card. There are memories splattered on this tiny card. How could I part with it?

Besides, I look at the sprawling cursive and marvel at the young woman who was only beginning on her life of adventures. She had no idea what awaited her.

And then I smile...The penmanship has changed and the girl much older, but the joy of pulling out a simple recipe card transforms me back to an era of simplicity. Where baking and cooking helped to stir the well of creativity. Though I must be careful. I recall an incident while beating a cake batter. While lost in my world of stories, I stuck a wooden spoon into the beaters. Not a pretty picture.

Happy Beltane! Psst, don't forget to leave out some milk and bread for the faeries.

“Life itself is the most wonderful fairy tale.” –Hans Christian Andersen