Sherry Ewing's Blog, page 35

Happy Release Day ~ Fire & Frost

It’s always a great day to celebrate when you release a new book baby into the world (although my brother would say it’s in honor of his birthday ~ Happy Birthday, Tim).

The Bluestocking Belles and I are pleased to release our latest collection, Fire & Frost. Taking place during the last Frost Fair of 1814, you’ll find five stories to give you hours of reading pleasure. My contribution to the set is A Second Chance At Love with Viscount Digby Osgood and Lady Constance Whittles whom you first met in Under the Mistletoe. Be sure to read to the end to learn about our blog hope and contest!

Be sure to grab your copy for only $0.99 and remember that with your purchase a percentage of the sales will go to our mutual charity The Malala Fund.

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Fire & Frost: A Bluestocking Belles Collection

Only $0.99!

In a winter so cold the Thames freezes over, five couples venture onto the ice in pursuit of love to warm their hearts.



Love unexpected, rekindled, or brand new—even one that’s a whack on the side of the head—heats up the frigid winter. After weeks of fog and cold, all five stories converge on the ice at the 1814 Frost Fair when the ladies’ campaign to help the wounded and unemployed veterans of the Napoleonic wars culminates in a charity auction that shocks the high sticklers of the ton.

In their 2020 collection, join the Bluestocking Belles and their heroes and heroines as The Ladies’ Society For The Care of the Widows and Orphans of Fallen Heroes and the Children of Wounded Veterans pursues justice, charity, and soul-searing romance.

Celebrate Valentine’s Day 2020 with five interconnected Regency romances.

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A Second Chance At Love

Viscount Digby Osgood returns to London after a two-year absence, planning to avoid the woman he courted and then left. Surely she has moved on with her life; even married by now. A bit of encouragement from a friend, however, pushes him to seek the lady out. Can she ever forgiven him and give them a second chance at love?

Lady Constance Whittles has only cared for one man in her life. Even after he broke her heart, it remains fixed on him. Another man tries to replace him, but she soon learns she can never feel for him a shadow of what she still feels for Digby. One brief encounter with Digby confirms it; she is more than willing to forgive him. Can they truly take up where they left off?

Charity projects and a Frost Fair on the Thames bring them together, but another stands in their way. Will he tear them apart?

Fire & Frost Buy links:

Amazon US  |  Apple Books  | Barnes & Noble | Kobo  | Smashwords

Amazon Global:

AU BR CA DE ES FR IN IT JP MX NL UK

How about a blog hop & contest to celebrate?

Read and comment on five original pieces relating to our stories at each hop, comment on the Belles’ blog and you’ll be in the running for a $50 Amazon gift card. We’re keeping this contest open until Saturday, February 8th. Start the hop here!

The Book Palace on Ice for Imaginative and Curious Minds

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Lord Digby Osgood held tightly to the lady on his arm after she lost her footing on the ice. He gave her a reassuring smile silently telling her he would never let her fall.  Lady Constance Whittles murmured a soft thank you and Digby swore his heart flipped end over end when she moved a little closer to his side.

They continued on their way through the stalls of the Frost Fair. It had already been a fun-filled day despite the cold weather. They had enjoyed the Tea Shoppe on the Ice followed by the stall featuring Anna’s Hot Roasted Chestnuts. He had been more than thrilled when they had come upon Wilfred Bagshotts Portraits on Demand and he insisted Lady Constance sit for a drawing. The miniature was now tucked away in his coat and he would see that it was properly framed once he returned home.

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But when they came upon The Book Palace on Ice for Imaginative and Curious Minds, a squeal of delight escaped Constance’s lips. Digby could not refuse her plea to take only a small peek at what the stall had to offer. Small peek, indeed. He should have known the lady would become lost in the makeshift bookstore the moment she stepped foot inside. Digby had been waiting for the past twenty minutes. Not that he minded. Constance loved her books and he would deny her nothing as long as she was happy.

“Checking out my sister’s competition, Lord Osgood?” That voice held a hint of sarcasm but still remained civil enough to not offend.

Digby turned and saw none other than Samuel Clemens, the editor and owner of The Teatime Tattler. “Mr. Clemens,” Digby replied with a nod of his head. “What brings you here in such inclement weather?”

“My stall is just around the corner and business has never been better. Not only have I sold more copies of my newspaper than usual, but everyone wants a keepsake from the Frost Fair. We keep running out of paper,” he said before he held out a sheet for Digby to take.

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His newspaper was nothing more than a gossip rag, Digby thought but took the offering of the keepsake knowing Constance would like it. “It appears the Frost Fair has been a big success for everyone who has a stall,” he replied before pulling the edges of his coat closer together.

“I could not agree more,” Samuel said before his attention turned to the people in The Book Palace stall. “Ah… I see what keeps you here. Lady Constance has been very helpful to my sister’s business. I hope she does not lose the lady to another store once this is over,” he said with a chuckle.

“I am certain Lady Constance is more than happy to work for your sister as long as Miss Amelia will have her.”

Samuel tipped his hat. “I must be off. I cannot keep the world waiting for the latest news.”

Digby watched the man leave before he noticed Constance reaching for her reticule to make her purchase. He quickly stepped forward. “Allow me, my lady,” Digby said.

“I do not mind paying for the book, my lord.” Constance once more brightened his day with her smile.

“I must insist.” Paying the man, Digby offered his arm again to his lady as they began perusing the other stalls. They came upon the next stall, The Mystical Oracle Madam Amy Quinton. “Do you wish your fortune to be told, Constance?” he asked with a grin.

“Perhaps after we see the elephant? You did promise me you would take me to see it,” she said, her eyes twinkling in delight.

“And so I did. Let us make our way to see the beast then we can return here to see what the oracle has to say about our future.”

Constance gave his arm a squeeze. “I already know our future, Digby,” she replied.

“You do?” he said looking down into her beautiful face. Constance never looked lovelier.

“Of course! We shall live happily ever after!”

Digby swore his heart melted right then and there. His future indeed looked bright as long as Lady Constance remained in his life.

Was there really a bookstall at the 1814 Frost Fair?

None of my research found an actual bookstall on the ice but there were nearly a dozen printing presses producing keepsakes and commemorative poems. A printer named George Davis published a 124-page book called Frostiana; or A History of the River Thames In a Frozen State and the Belles referenced this material when we were working on our common theme for Fire & Frost. The entire book was typeset and printed in Davis’s printing stall set up on the frozen Thames.

The 1814 Frost Fair was also it’s last. With the old London Bridge being demolished in 1831, it was replaced with a new bridge with wider arches. This allowed the tide to flow more freely. The river was also embanked during the 19th century causing the river less likely to freeze.

You can read more about printing at the frost fairs here: http://www.letterology.com/2014/02/printing-at-frost-fairs.html

 

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My contribution to Fire & Frost is A Second Chance At Love featuring Lord Digby Osgood and Lady Constance Whittles whom you first met in Under the Mistletoe.

Can the bittersweet frost of lost love be rekindled into a burning flame?

Viscount Digby Osgood returns to London after a two-year absence, planning to avoid the woman he courted and then left. Surely she has moved on with her life; even married by now. A bit of encouragement from a friend, however, pushes him to seek the lady out. Can she ever forgive him and give them a second chance at love?

Lady Constance Whittles has only cared for one man in her life. Even after he broke her heart, it remains fixed on him. Another man tries to replace him, but she soon learns she can never feel for him a shadow of what she still feels for Digby. One brief encounter with Digby confirms it; she is more than willing to forgive him. Can they truly take up where they left off?

Charity projects and a Frost Fair on the Thames bring them together, but another stands in their way. Will he tear them apart?

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Fire & Frost:

A Bluestocking Belles Collection

Release Date: February 4, 2020

Preorder for $0.99

In a winter so cold the Thames freezes over, five couples venture onto the ice in pursuit of love to warm their hearts.

Love unexpected, rekindled, brand new or rediscovered—even one that’s a whack on the side of the head—heats up the winter. After weeks of fog and cold all five stories converge on the ice at the 1814 Frost Fair when the ladies’ campaign to help the wounded and unemployed veterans of the Napoleonic wars culminates in a charity auction that shocks the high sticklers of the ton.

In their 2020 collection, join the Bluestocking Belles and their heroes and heroines as The Ladies’ Society For The Care of the Widows and Orphans of Fallen Heroes and the Children of Wounded Veterans pursues justice, charity, and soul-searing romance.

Celebrate Valentine’s Day 2020 with five interconnected Regency romances.

Melting Matilda by Jude Knight – Fire smolders under the frost between them.

My One True Love by Rue Allyn – She vanished into the fog. Will he find his one true love or remain lost, cold and alone forever?

Lord Ethan’s Courage by Caroline Warfield – War may freeze a man’s heart; it takes a woman to melt it.

A Second Chance at Love by Sherry Ewing – Can the bittersweet frost of lost love be rekindled into a burning flame?

The Umbrella Chronicles: Chester and Artemis’s Story by Amy Quinton – Beastly duke seeks confident woman who doesn’t faint at the sight of his scars. Prefers not to leave the house to find her.

Buy Links:

Amazon US  |  Apple Books  | Barnes & Noble | Kobo  | Smashwords

Amazon Global:

AU BR CA DE ES FR IN IT JP MX NL UK

Comment to Win

Comment on this post, each of the other four, and the page on the Belles’ website here https://bluestockingbelles.net/frostfairhop/?fbclid=IwAR2qQS4IMhZYgVNvhbfFVmTf6Bm5tFwAJy5bxu21remzDRHzcM5rcRXa1sU to go into the drawing for the main prize in the blog hop, a $50 US Amazon card.

Tell me… what would have piqued your interest at the frost fair? What would you have liked to see? All comments on this post will go in a drawing for an eCopy of one the previous four Bluestocking Belles’ collections, plus a copy of Under the Mistletoe a prequel to A Second Chance At Love found in the Belles’ new box set Fire & Frost.

Did you miss the previous blog hop stop? You can access it here.

And don’t forget you have one more hop that surely you don’t want to miss. Find your way to That Mystical Oracle Madame Amy Quinton here: http://amyquinton.net/?p=2308

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First Kiss Friday with Sherry Ewing

Hello, my dearest readers! Today for First Kiss Friday I have a treat for you. You’ll be getting the first kiss scene from my novella A Second Chance At Love that is in the Bluestocking Belles’ box set Fire & Frost. This set is available for pre-order and releases on Tuesday, February 4th. Our set centers around a common theme, the Frost Fair of 1814, where the winter was so cold the Thames freezes over. I know you’ve been waiting for Lord Digby Osgood and Lady Constance Whittles story since Under the Mistletoe and now you’ll have it to add to your collection. Happy reading, my lovelies and enjoy!

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Excerpt:

Constance waited in the foyer while a servant went to fetch her pelisse. Her aunt had stayed behind in the meeting room to finish up a few details, and Constance hoped this would give her some additional time alone with Digby. Her heart leapt when she saw him leaving the front parlor. She could barely contain her breathing as he came ever nearer to her side. How she loved this man.

“Your aunt—” he started to say, bowing over her hand.

“—is momentarily delayed,” she finished with a smile.

He leaned forward to whisper in her ear. “Come with me,” he urged, while gently taking her elbow.

She gave a quick glance around and nodded. None of the other people gathering in the foyer paid any attention to them. They were too preoccupied with their own conversations or going on about the details of the event to follow next month.

Constance and Digby did not go far and she was thankful he escorted her into an open room with no door, thus ensuring her reputation remained intact. A nook not visible from the hallway gave them a semblance of privacy and she could only wonder what this man who owned her heart would do next. She did not have long to wait.

“You may think this is too forward of me, Lady Constance,” he began.

She let a light laugh escaped her. “We have known one another far too long to be so formal, my lord, at least when we are alone together.”

He brightened her day with his smile and brought her closer. “Constance… you do me a great honor.”

“The honor is mine, Digby,” she breathed in a soft whisper, resting her hands lightly on his forearms.

“During my time away, a day did not go by that I did not think of you. The hurt I caused you at our parting has weighed heavily on my mind for two long years.”

“I have already forgiven you for all that, Digby.”

“Yes, I know, and I am most grateful you can forget my foolishness. This may be too fast, since we have only just reunited, but I wanted you to know I still care for you, Constance.”

She reached up to cup his cheek. “Digby, surely you must know you still own my heart?”

“You give me hope for a future together,” he said in a husky tone.

“Nothing would make me happier.”

She thought she was prepared for when Digby bent down to place his lips upon her own. The kiss was gentle at first, a testament to what they truly felt for one another. But as she stepped closer, wrapping her arms around his neck, everything changed. Digby pulled her into his arms and every fiber of her being burst in sheer joy. He deepened their kiss, and she was more than willing to follow his lead. Tingling sensations stole down her spine and Constance knew in this very instant that she had not lost his love. Surely, if Digby could kiss her like this then he would certainly wish for them to wed at some point in their future.

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A Second Chance At Love in

Fire & Frost: A Bluestocking Belles Collection

Pre-order now for $0.99!

Can the bittersweet frost of lost love be rekindled into a burning flame?

Viscount Digby Osgood returns to London after a two-year absence, planning to avoid the woman he courted and then left. Surely she has moved on with her life; even married by now. A bit of encouragement from a friend, however, pushes him to seek the lady out. Can she ever forgiven him and give them a second chance at love?

Lady Constance Whittles has only cared for one man in her life. Even after he broke her heart, it remains fixed on him. Another man tries to replace him, but she soon learns she can never feel for him a shadow of what she still feels for Digby. One brief encounter with Digby confirms it; she is more than willing to forgive him. Can they truly take up where they left off?

Charity projects and a Frost Fair on the Thames bring them together, but another stands in their way. Will he tear them apart?

Buy Links for Fire & Frost:

Amazon US  |  Apple Books  | Barnes & Noble | Kobo  | Smashwords

Amazon Global:

AU BR CA DE ES FR IN IT JP MX NL UK

 

Medieval Monday with Sherry Ewing

I hope you’ve enjoyed the last nine weeks of Medieval Monday and our celebration theme. Hopefully, you’ve found some new books to love. I’m ending this theme with my final excerpt from To Love A Scottish Laird. It’s my great wish that you loved these characters as much as I loved creating them. Thanks for joining me for this Medieval Monday hop. Until the next time, happy reading and enjoy, my lovelies!

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Excerpt:

His grin broadened when she tossed her head, causing her lovely, black braid to swing. He could hardly wait ’til he was able to unbraid it. He reached out to cup her cheek, running his thumb across her silky skin. The pulse at her neck quickened, and Douglas’s grin widened. He began to lower his head to kiss her.

“Do you have birds at Berwyck?” Her words poured from her mouth as though drenching him with a frigid blast of water.

“Birds?” he asked, trying to grasp where she was taking this conversation when he had other things on his mind. “Aye, of course we have birds at Berwyck. The forests are filled with them.”

A small chuckle left her, and Douglas was glad to see her relax. “I meant, does Berwyck have mews? I have a falcon at Wolverhampton and would hate to see all my training be for naught if I cannot take her with me.” She blushed as though embarrassed to already be making demands on her soon-to-be husband.

“Ye can bring yer bird and whatever else ye like to Berwyck, Catherine. ’Twill be yer home as much as ’tis mine.” He tugged her closer ’til he could feel every inch of her body against his. Her breath caught in her throat at the contact. “Shall we pledge our troth with a kiss?”

“I-I cannot kiss you, Lord Douglas. We are not yet wed, and I will seal nothing with a kiss.”

“Douglas,” he murmured against her ear. “Say my name, Catherine.” He cupped her face with both hands while he waited

“My lord, I cannot call you by your given name.”

“Ye will be my wife. Say my name,” he urged gently and saw the small spark of acceptance in her magnificent, hazel eyes.

“Douglas.”

Smiling, he lowered his mouth to hers and swore God smiled down on them as Douglas took what Catherine so willingly offered.

Want to read more? Leaving a comment on the threads is highly encouraged. #justsaying Here’s where you can find all of my excerpts from our Celebration theme:

November 18th: https://sherryewing.com

November 25th: https://ruthacasie.blogspot.com

December 2nd: https://judithmarshallauthor.com

December 9th: https://www.cathymacraeauthor.com

December 16th: http://www.barbarabettis.com/index.php/blog/

December 23rd: https://www.ashleyyorkauthor.com/blog

December 30th: https://www.marymorganauthor.com/blog

January 6th: http://lanemcfarland.com/blog/

January 13th: https://www.laurel-odonnell.com/

January 20th: www.bambilynnblog.wordpress.com

To Love A Scottish Laird:

De Wolfe Back Connected World

By Sherry Ewing

Sometimes you really can fall in love at first sight…

Lady Catherine de Wolfe knows she must find a husband before her brother chooses one for her, but none of the knights and lords she knows have caught her eye. A tournament to celebrate the wedding of the Duke of Normandy might be her answer. She does not expect to fall for a man after just one touch.

Laird Douglas MacLaren of Berwyck is invited to the tournament by the Duke of Normandy. He goes to ensure Berwyck’s safety once Henry takes the throne. He does not expect to become entranced by a woman who bumps into him.

Before they can express their feelings, the Duke orders them wed to strengthen ties between his English supporters and the borderland, and then separates them by commanding Douglas’s escort to his home.

Yet, nothing is ever quite that simple. Not everyone is happy with the union of this English lady and a Scottish laird. From the shores of France, to Berwyck Castle on the border between their countries, Douglas and Catherine must find their way to protect their newfound love.

Buy Links or read for Free in Kindle Unlimited:

Amazon US: https://amzn.to/2UbuMKB

AU: https://amzn.to/2OvonVg

CA: https://amzn.to/2uzkwNO

NL: https://amzn.to/2JIZCGe

UK: https://amzn.to/2uzR3TI

First Kiss Friday with Ruth Kaufman

Welcome to another First Kiss Friday, my lovelies! Today guest is author Ruth Kaufman who has an excerpt from her recently release story My Rival, My Love: De Wolfe Pack Connected World. We hope you enjoy this first kiss scene! Happy reading.

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Excerpt:

“Good, sir, do I have your permission to get my hopes up now?” she asked.

“You do.”

They laughed. The first true laugh of his she’d heard. She loved the carefree sound.

Caught up in the moment, they hugged. Having his body against hers and his arms around her back, felt so good. So right.

She relished the tender moment, but knew she should pull away. They’d clung together longer than a congratulatory embrace should last. As she leaned back, he met her gaze. She knew that look. The burn of desire. And couldn’t deny she shared it.

Slowly, he bent his head. All she had to do was take a single step out of his arms. But she didn’t want to. She wanted him to kiss her. To keep the pressure of his hard body against hers and his strong arms holding her close.

And to be desired by him, even for just this moment.

Their lips met.

“Cecily,” he said softly.

His tone, his touch, made her thirst for more.

She slid her hands into his hair as the kiss deepened. Pulsing warmth spread between her legs. He’d awakened desires she’d thought long dead. As when spring brought the earth back to life, her body felt eager to flourish. But the more she cared, the more she could lose if he didn’t want more. Or if he did and some dire fate befell him.

Each let go and backed away.

Despite their differences, Cecily liked Simon too much. The rush of emotions was more intense than she wanted. How could she lessen their growing intimacy?

The warmth lingering in his gaze intrigued and confused her.

Blurb:

Their hearts are locked as tightly as his box. Can her key open them to love?

York, England 1460 – A letter containing a key leads Cecily Fayrefax to intriguing goldsmith Simon Clarke, who owns a locked box. Attraction sparks as they unite in a quest to open it.

Cecily fears caring for another man because her husband died in a tragic fire, yet finds herself drawn to Simon even as she struggles to stand her ground when they clash over disposition of the mystifying contents. Accustomed to being in charge, he needs to learn how to have a woman, and an alluring one at that, as a partner while keeping up with his business.

After danger threatens, each is more convinced of being right and remains wary of allowing desire to sway important choices. Can love show them how to agree to disagree?

Buy link or read for FREE in Kindle Unlimited: getbook.at/B082872SN3

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About the author:

Ruth Kaufman is the author of four medieval romance novels, three medieval novellas and two humorous contemporary novels. Her Wars of the Roses Brides trilogy (AT HIS COMMAND, FOLLOW YOUR HEART and THE BRIDE TOURNAMENT) reached #1 historical romance on Amazon in the US, Canada and Australia. Other accolades include 2016 Booksellers’ Best Award double winner (Best Historical and Best First Book).

Ruth is also an actor with a J.D. and a Master’s in Radio/TV. Credits include independent features, short films, web series, national TV commercials and thousands of voiceovers. She presents workshops for authors and actors and is a storyteller. Learn more at http://www.ruthkaufman.com and http://www.ruthtalks.com.

Social Media links:

Website  https://ruthkaufman.com

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ruthtalks or Ruth Kaufman Author & Actor

Twitter @RuthKaufman    https://twitter.com/RuthKaufman

Instagram @ruth.kaufman   https://www.instagram.com/ruth.kaufman

Goodreads https://www.goodreads.com/ruth_kaufman

Amazon Author Page  http://www.amazon.com/Ruth-Kaufman/e/B00JH7Z40S

Medieval Monday with Bambi Lynn

We’re almost to the end of the Celebration theme for Medieval Monday! This week I have the fabulous Bambi Lynn who is sharing an excerpt from Marek. And is this cover steamy or what? Enjoy this excerpt and happy reading, my lovelies!

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Excerpt:

By midnight, Bria had crawled into Thane’s lap and fallen asleep. Kitty would have to give her the Barbie doll later. Vanesa, however, was having the time of her life. She leaned forward to peer around the massive form of her stepfather.

Want more? Check out Bambi’s web site: www.bambilynn.net

MAREK

By Bambi Lynn

Boring accountant, Kitty Petty, struggles to get through each day one at a time since the brutal murder of her husband. She spends every free moment caring for her young daughter, until the night she wakes to find her bed on fire.

Kitty doesn’t know how she got to the year 1196, much less how to get back. But if she doesn’t, her daughter will be institutionalized. Having failed to save her child from the clutches of a madman. Kitty vows to protect her future. But going back to her time means risking her own life and separating her from the knight she has grown to love.

Marek Stone wants to protect his wife from the people of Stonebridge. Katherine has been declared a demon after her miraculous rise from the funeral pyre, and the villagers want justice.

Kitty must return if she has any hope of saving her daughter. However, the knight who loves her will do anything to make her stay.

BUY LINK:  Amazon

First Kiss Friday with Jude Knight

Welcome to another First Kiss Friday. Today’s guest is my dear friend Jude Knight who will be sharing the first kiss scene from her upcoming novella Melting Matilda. Happy reading, my lovelies, and enjoy!

[image error] First Kiss Friday with Matilda and Charles

In this excerpt from Melting Matilda, a novella in the Bluestocking Belles’ box set Fire and Frost, the kiss is the first one in this book. They had another kiss a year before, and it haunts them. You’ll have to read the book to find out more.

Excerpt:

He had dressed with enormous care, driving his valet demented by changing his mind three times about his waistcoat, rejecting six cravats before settling on the seventh, and hesitating for twenty minutes on his choice of fobs. The valet would probably slit his wrists in despair if he could see how Charles had set his hair in disarray by running his fingers through it, and ruined the hard-won perfection of the cravat by tugging it further open because he felt it choking him.

Then the door opened. Matilda entered the room and he lost his breath again. She was magnificent in a violet gown that hugged her curves before sweeping out into a deceptively simple skirt that avoided fashionable ruffles in favor of more subtle stitching that added detail without fuss. The neckline was low enough to rivet his attention while still high enough to be demure by the current standards. She wore pearls at her neck, her wrists, dangling from her ears and glowing in her dark hair, and the blue eyes he met when he wrenched his attention from the snowy skin displayed by her décolletage had taken on a violet cast from the gown.

He gazed, losing track of time and space, until she said his name. “Charles?”

“I had a speech.” His voice croaked, and he swallowed. “I do not remember a word.”

With one hand, index finger outstretched, he traced an inch or so away from her face. “Why did I try so hard to resist you, you beautiful woman?”

It was the wrong thing to say. Her nostrils flared. “Because I am the base-born daughter of a harlot.”

“I cannot remember why I thought that important,” he confessed. “You are the beloved sister of the next Duke of Haverford, the ward of the current duchess, and a lady of impeccable education, training and manners. That is not why I love you, though.”

Her eyes softened. “You love me?”

“That was part of the speech. It is the only bit I remember. I look into your eyes, and I forget my own name.”

“Why?” Matilda asked.

“Why do I forget? No? Why now?” She colored, and he realized what she was asking. “Why do I love you? How can I explain something that has grown in my heart without my knowledge, even against my will?” He took both of her hands, and suddenly the words began to flow.

“I have been attracted to you since the first time we danced, but that is desire, and desire is a part of love but not the whole. I do desire you, my love, more and more each day, but I also admire you, I like being with you, I enjoy talking to you, I respect you. I want to see you every morning when I wake, to spend my days with you, to have the right to dance the first waltz with you at every ball, and to go home with you every night. I want to see your belly rounded with our child, and watch you as you gently teach them the way I’ve seen you teach your little sister. I want you and only you as my countess and the mother of my children. I want to grow old with you, Matilda Grenford.”

He dropped to one knee. “Miss Grenford, I esteem you with all my heart. Will you do me the very great honor of becoming my wife?”

He waited, his anxiety rising as she said nothing, despair taking over as tears rose and began to leak from her pansy eyes. Then she began to nod as she slipped to her own knees and reached out for him. “Yes. Oh, yes. Charles, I love you, too.”

For more than a year, Charles had kept to himself the fact that the Haverford Ice Princess kissed like a flame. As he abandoned his own granite facade for once and for all, he rejoiced in her heat. This time was even better than the last, and the best was yet to come. Though perhaps not here in a family parlor where her brother or sisters could walk in at any time.

“I hope you do not want a long betrothal,” he whispered, between kisses.

She broke off her attempt to completely unravel his cravat. “Not long,” she agreed.

Her fervent answer demanded that he kiss her again, losing himself so deep he didn’t know they were no longer alone until a voice behind him said, “I trust you are betrothed to my sister, Hamner, for it would be most inconvenient to start the evening’s celebrations by killing you.”

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Melting Matilda

Her scandalous birth prevents Matilda Grenford from being fully acceptable to Society, even though she has been a ward of the Duchess of Haverford since she was a few weeks old. Matilda does not expect to be wooed by a worthy gentleman. The only man who has ever interested her gave her an outrageous kiss a year ago and has avoided her ever since.

Charles, the Earl of Hamner is honour bound to ignore his attraction to Matilda Grenford. She is an innocent and a lady, and in every way worthy of his respect—but she is base-born. His ancestors would rise screaming from their graves if he made her his countess. But he cannot forget the kiss they once shared.

For more about Fire & Frost, including preorder links, see: https://bluestockingbelles.net/belles-joint-projects/fire-frost/

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About Jude Knight

Have you ever wanted something so much you were afraid to even try? That was Jude ten years ago.

For as long as she can remember, she’s wanted to be a novelist. She even started dozens of stories, over the years.

But life kept getting in the way. A seriously ill child who required years of therapy; a rising mortgage that led to a full-time job; six children, her own chronic illness… the writing took a back seat.

As the years passed, the fear grew. If she didn’t put her stories out there in the market, she wouldn’t risk making a fool of herself. She could keep the dream alive if she never put it to the test.

Then her mother died. That great lady had waited her whole life to read a novel of Jude’s, and now it would never happen.

So Jude faced her fear and changed it–told everyone she knew she was writing a novel. Now she’d make a fool of herself for certain if she didn’t finish.

Her first book came out to excellent reviews in December 2014, and the rest is history. Many books, lots of positive reviews, and a few awards later, she plans to keep publishing until she runs out of years.

Website and blog: http://judeknightauthor.com/

Subscribe to newsletter: http://judeknightauthor.com/newsletter/

Bookshop: https://judeknight.selz.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JudeKnightAuthor/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/JudeKnightBooks

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Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/jude-knight

Medieval Monday with Laurel O’Donnell

Medieval Monday is upon us again and this week I have Laurel O’Donnell on my blog. Today Laurel will be sharing an excerpt from A Knight Before Christmas. Happy reading and enjoy, my lovelies!

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Excerpt:

She shook her head, bowing her head to her chest. “I will embarrass him. I will –”

“No, Eve. You are far from an embarrassment. You –”

Her small body shook with a tremor of tears. “I don’t want to marry him,” she whispered.

The words echoed through the room and even though they did, Gabriel wasn’t certain he had heard her correctly. He stood, unsure. He should confront Michael about the way he treated her. He should take her far away from this place. But he wasn’t certain that was what she wanted. He wasn’t certain it was just a moment of weakness.

Read more of the excerpt from A Knight Before Christmas next week at Judith Sterling’s website – https://judithmarshallauthor.com/

 

A Knight Before Christmas

By Laurel O’Donnell

Blamed by her father for her twin sister’s death on Christmas Eve, Lady Eve Chandos agrees to marry a man she does not love to please him and appease his years of wrath. Betrayed by his brother at an early age, Sir Gabriel Bedford decides it is time to make amends and attends his brother’s marriage, but he is unprepared for the beauty Lady Eve has grown into and the attraction that quickly sparks between them.

As Christmas approaches, can Eve and Gabriel find the happiness they seek, or will the secrets of their past doom them to remain apart forever?

Buy Link –

Amazon – https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07YZS3D3B

Amazon UK – https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07YZS3D3B

Amazon CA – https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B07YZS3D3B

Amazon AU – https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B07YZS3D3B

First Kiss Friday with Cathy MacRae

It’s First Kiss Friday! You’ve seen this lady before on my blog whether it’s for Medieval Monday or First Kiss Friday. Please welcome back my good friend Cathy MacRae who is sharing an excerpt from her newly released story, The Cursed: De Wolfe Pack Connected World. Enjoy and happy reading, my lovelies!

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Excerpt:

Walter sighed, his lanky frame relaxed, and a tentative smile lit his face. “Rosaline, when we are together—when we touch—I can think of nothing but what it would be like to kiss ye.”

She swallowed. Heat suffused her skin. Her wits scattered.

A kiss? No one had dared. She glanced at Walter. Nor would he if she did not give him her consent.

Impossible! And yet . . .. She swayed forward. The tip of her tongue parted her lips then retreated.

***

Fire exploded in Walter’s groin. Nothing existed that did not include touching Rosaline, holding her, kissing her. His breathing labored.

Rosaline drew back. Autumn sunlight flashed through the tree branches and thunder rumbled in the distance as if warning him to tread carefully. Walter’s heart pounded as he brought himself back under control.

“I would never hurt ye,” he murmured. “I could not believe my luck when I heard . . ..” He swore softly. It may have been to his benefit Rosaline’s suitor had died, but he’d hardly consider it luck. He corrected his blunder.

“Ye are a beautiful, desirable young woman. I did not wish to give your father a chance to make another alliance. I will give ye time. I will not push ye . . ..”

Rosaline retraced her step, her breasts nearly touching his chest. Her fingers pleated the front of his thick tunic. Words failed him as she rose on her toes. Tentatively, she touched her lips to his then pulled away.

The corners of her mouth tilted up and her eyes softened—like a cat which had stolen a bowl of cream. “I like it,” she whispered.

With a groan, Walter shoved his fingers through the golden hair at the back of her head and drew her close, his other hand splayed across the small of her back. He sank into the softness of her lips and lost himself in the kiss.

Rosaline arched into his embrace. Walter cradled her head against his shoulder, tilting her chin upward, slanting his mouth across hers. Nothing existed beyond the sweetness of her lips, the heavy silk of her hair—and the indescribable moans echoing softly in her throat.

He reluctantly ended the kiss, yet could not release her pliant form.

“Ye will marry me,” he rasped, his voice rough with emotion.

Rosaline stiffened. “I cannae.”

Shock and dismay flashed like icy water over Walter’s skin, dousing his hunger. “What? Ye like my kisses well enough. Do ye merely tempt me?”

Yet he knew she did not. Though the kiss had thoroughly taken his lust to a level previously unexplored, it was clear she’d never been kissed before.

Rosaline pushed away, and he released her. Her eyes darkened, her brow furrowed.

“Were I to wed, ye would be my only choice,” she whispered. “For ye are a good man and claim my heart like no other. But I must not—I cannae agree to marry ye. If I do, ye will die.”

The Cursed:

De Wolfe Pack Connected World

By Cathy MacRae

#Free in #Kindle Unlimited

Rosaline Johnstone believes she has been cursed by the faeries. Will it keep her from marrying the man she loves?

Betrothed four times, none of her suitors have made it to the altar. This time she’s in love, but if she agrees to marry him, his death will be on her head.

Walter de Ellerton, deeply religious and a fervent keeper of the chivalric code, has patiently sought the right lady to marry. He has at last found her, the woman of his dreams, and though she professes undying love, she refuses to marry him.

Caught between the machinations of a wily Scot, the ambitions of an English lord, a vengeful clan chieftain, and the mysterious works of the faeries of Eaglesfield Burn, Rosaline and Walter must break the curse Rosaline believes was settled upon her many years ago—or risk losing their chance to live happily ever after.

Read for FREE with Kindle Unlimited!

Buy link: https://www.amzn.com/dp/B08286MZXR

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Author bio:

Cathy MacRae lives on the sunny side of the Arbuckle Mountains where she and her husband read, write, and tend the garden—with the help of the dogs, of course.

You can visit with her on facebook, or read her blogs and learn about her books at www.cathymacraeauthor.com. Drop her a line—she loves to hear from readers!

To keep up with new releases and other fun things, sign up for her newsletter! (You’ll find DD’s news there, too!)

Other ways to connect with Cathy:

  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cathymacraeauthor/

Twitter: @CMacRaeAuthor

Instagram: cathymacrae_author

Amazon author page: https://www.amazon.com/author/cathymacrae

Pinterest. https://www.pinterest.com/authorcathy...

Book bub  https://www.bookbub.com/authors/cathy-macrae

Medieval Monday with Lane McFarland

Welcome to the first Medieval Monday for the year! I have the fabulous Lane McFarland who will be ringing in week seven on our Celebration theme with an excerpt from Cameron. Enjoy this next excerpt, my lovelies!

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Excerpt:

He clutched her hand, intertwining his strong warm fingers with hers, and shivers of excitement slithered through her body. He led her out a dark oak gate and through a corridor. A steep flight of stairs ascended to the right, and she followed him up and onto the battlements overlooking Graham Castle.

The dramatic sight stole her breath. Large torches positioned around the massive bailey threw blazing flames into the dark sky. Flags, of Scotland and the Graham family crest, vigorously waved and slapped their staffs. Armed men, with swords strapped to their backs, patrolled the gates.

She leaned over the waist-high grey stone enclosure and peered into the bailey. “It’s beautiful up here.”

“It’s a favorite place of mine.”

The wind whipped around her, and she rubbed her arms.

“Ye’re cold?”

“A bit.”

  Follow along next week on Barbara Bettis’ blog http://barbarabettis.blogspot.com/

Cameron

By Lane McFarland

Determined to band Scots together against English tyranny, Laird Robert Graham seals a truce with his feuding neighbor, the MacDougalls. But after his brother is nearly killed in a treacherous attack, Graham kidnaps the laird’s daughter in an act of revenge.

Cameron MacDougall has devoted her life to the healing arts. She’s long rebelled against her father’s feuding ways, but when Robert Graham abducts her, she’s finds herself at the center of the dispute between their families. She expects the anger she feels, not the simmering attraction to the powerful warrior, or the love she develops for his clan.

Can she stop further violence between the clans with her escape? Or will she find her surrender leads to a lasting peace and her own heart’s desire?

Buy Link: Amazon