Sherry Ewing's Blog, page 43

First Kiss Friday with Caroline Warfield

It’s always a pleasure when I can welcome back my dear friend Caroline Warfield to another First Kiss Friday! The Unexpected Wife is a finalist for a RONE award this week. It seems like a good time to redo the first kiss in that wonderful book. If you’ve read it and like it, please vote for it today through Sunday at https://www.indtale.com/2019-rone-awards-week-three

Before this scene, Charles, the Duke of Murnane, has gone missing inside the city of Canton, forbidden to foreigners, for three days, while Zambak is confined to the American factory in the Western quarter, frightened for him. He can offer her no respectable future because his horrid wife stands in the way. How that issue resolves itself is honest, meaningful, and touching.

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Excerpt:

One other thing took shape and came into focus so sharply she couldn’t turn away. She loved Charles Wheatly, heart and soul. A desperate laugh, half sob, half hysteria escaped her at the thought. She finally fulfilled her mother’s fondest wish and found a man she could respect and love—one that offered little hope of a respectable future. She had no idea what to do with the thought. As it turned out she had little time to consider it.

“Who is here?” Charles demanded. He stood outlined in the light from oil lamps in the corridor behind him. Caught between love and fury over the fear he caused, she flung herself from the chair.

“Thank God!” She didn’t know whether she would hug him or slap him until she threw herself into his arms and was being kissed senseless.

He pulled his lips from hers and kissed his way down her neck. “What is this foolishness?” he asked against a tender spot beneath her right ear. His gentle hands began to roam.

She captured his mouth again, invading before he could object. “Where have you been?” she asked between moans of pleasure, “Don’t ever frighten me like that again.”

He shifted and pulled her closer, kissed her more deeply. She felt one of his hands, warm against her skin, slip under her lose jacket.

Zambak melted against him, but reality intruded as the initial heat subsided. “You stink!” She pulled back a few inches, his arms still holding her, and wrinkled her nose.

“I slept behind a tannery last night, in an alley ridden with some dubious substances. I meant to clean up before reporting to you.”

She pulled away reluctantly, one hand clinging to his, and picked up a candle from his bedside to light it from one of the oil lamps in the hall. She looked him up and down with disgust, put the candle down, and began undoing the heavy robe. “Let’s get you undressed,” she said setting words to action.

“Lady Zambak Hayden how inappropriate—and how utterly delightful,” he said allowing her to have her way with him. The outer robe hit the floor and she kicked it to the corner. She began undoing the fasteners on his shirt, but he brushed her hands aside and pulled it over his head. “I’ve ordered a bath, will you help me with that too?”

Heat surged through her at the image he conjured. Her face burned momentarily, but the sight of the seeping bandage on his arm sent ice water through her. “My God, Charles, you’re hurt!”

“It probably needs to be looked at, but I wanted to clean up first.”

She unwound the filthy strip of cloth, cringing at the seeping wound running almost the length of his upper arm. “Cow slop! This can’t wait. You spent the night in filth.” She punched his shoulder then.

“Ow! What was that for?”

“Stupidity. This could fester and I’ll have to fear for you all over again.”

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The Unexpected Wife

Children of Empire Book 3

Crushed with grief after the death of his son, Charles Wheatly, Duke of Murnane, throws himself into the new Queen’s service in 1838. When the government sends him on an unofficial fact finding mission to the East India Company’s enclave in Canton, China, he anticipates intrigue, international tensions, and an outlet for his frustration. He isn’t entirely surprised when he also encounters a pair of troublesome young people that need his help. However, the appearance of his estranged wife throws the entire enterprise into conflict. He didn’t expect to face his troubled marriage in such an exotic locale, much less to encounter profound love at last in the person of a determined young woman. Tensions boil over, and his wife’s scheming—and the beginnings of the First Opium War—force him to act to rescue the one he loves and perhaps save himself in the process.

Zambak Hayden seethes with frustration. A woman her age has occupied the throne for over a year, yet the Duke of Sudbury’s line of succession still passes over her—his eldest—to land on a son with neither spine nor character. She follows her brother, the East India Company’s newest and least competent clerk, to protect him and to safeguard the family honor. If she also escapes the gossip and intrigues of London and the marriage mart, so much the better. She has no intention of being forced into some sort of dynastic marriage. She may just refuse to marry at all. When an old family friend arrives she assumes her father sent him. She isn’t about to bend to his dictates nor give up her quest. Her traitorous heart, however, can’t stop yearning for a man she can’t have.

Neither expects the epic historical drama that unfolds around them.

It is ***FREE*** with Kindle Unlimited or you can buy a copy at:

US https://www.amazon.com/Unexpected-Wife-Children-Empire-Book-ebook/dp/B07FGGC918/

UK https://www.amazon.co.uk/Unexpected-Wife-Children-Empire-Book-ebook/dp/B07FGGC918/

Canada https://www.amazon.ca/Unexpected-Wife-Children-Empire-Book-ebook/dp/B07FGGC918/

EuroZone  https://www.amazon.de/Unexpected-Wife-Children-Empire-Book-ebook/dp/B07FGGC918/

India https://www.amazon.in/Unexpected-Wife-Children-Empire-Book-ebook/dp/B07FGGC918/

Here’s a short video about it:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Di7cBi_EyAE

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About the Author:

Traveler, would-be adventurer, former tech writer and library technology professional, Caroline Warfield has now retired to the urban wilds of Eastern Pennsylvania, and divides her time between writing and seeking adventures with her grandbuddy. In her newest series, Children of Empire, three cousins torn apart by lies find their way home from the far corners of the British Empire, finding love along the way.

She has works published by Soul Mate Publishing and also independently published works. In addition, she has participated in five group anthologies, one not yet published.

For more about the series and all of Caroline’s books, look here:

https://www.carolinewarfield.com/bookshelf/

Medieval Monday with Sherry Ewing & a Giveaway!

Welcome to the last week of our First Meet theme on Medieval Monday. I’m ending things with the last long snippet from If My Heart Could See You. I hope you’ve been following along for the past twelve weeks and have enjoyed reading excerpts from some of my favorite medieval romance authors. Be sure to leave a comment below to be in the running for my giveaway. A random comment will be generated and announced on next week’s Medieval Monday. Happy reading, my lovelies!

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“I would be lying if I said I do not desire to have a taste of your sweet lips beneath mine and all else you would offer,” he told her truthfully but watched in dismay as the spell that had been woven between them was broken with his words. She stepped away from him, covering her face once more. “Surely you would not deny your lord a simple kiss.”

The woman pondered his words and took a hesitant step back as if she knew she had stayed too long. “A kiss is not so simple to a woman’s heart, my lord, hence I would not give them lightly and without thought.”

“Surely you are not wed?”

“Nay, my lord, I am not.”

“Then I do not see the problem if we but share a moment or two of pleasure this morn.”  Dristan reached for her again, but to his irritation found only empty arms as she dodged his outstretched hands. Still he persisted in his efforts to know the maiden further. “Come now, do not be shy. I but wish to know you,” he said, trying again, and got no further than he did but moments afore.

“To what end, Lord Dristan?” she queried tartly, as he watched her become annoyed with him. “I will be no whore for you or any other man nor shall you make me your lady wife. I am but one woman among many to have crossed your path and surely there will be more to follow as you travel about on the king’s business. I will not be used and tossed aside with mayhap a babe in my belly for allowing you to, as you said, share a moment or two of pleasure,” she answered angrily. “Somehow, I think I am worth more than that, although you may not think so.”

Caught off guard by the bitterness in her words, Dristan was about to reply when the sound of racing hoof beats came to his ears and he turned to see the cause. He was put at ease as several of his guardsmen came into view and dismounted with swords drawn as if protecting him from some unseen enemy. He turned back to have further speech with the woman only to find her gone from his sight with only a brief glimpse of her tartan as she disappeared into the forest.

If My Heart Could See You

The MacLaren’s

A Medieval Romance

When you’re enemies, does love have a fighting chance?

For Amiria of Berwyck, defeat does not come easily as she watches her home and clan being ripped asunder. When the very enemy who has laid siege to her home demands her fealty, she will do whatever it takes to protect her people including a hastily concocted ruse that quickly begins to unravel. All too soon, she starts to question whether she can forgive herself for betraying those she has sworn to protect.

Dristan of Blackmore, champion knight of King Henry II, has a reputation to uphold as the Devil’s Dragon. After his invading army conquers Berwyck castle, he sets out to manage the newly claimed estate by training its knights in the art of proper defense. At first, everything appears as it should be, or is it? Betrayed by those he believed he could trust, he must first set aside his anger before he can make room in his heart for love.

Together they are tied by an unspoken bond. As they begin to rebuild the land and unite their people, forces beyond their control attempt to tear apart their fragile truce and only time will tell if love will forever bring them together.

Buy Links:

Amazon US | Barnes & Noble | iBooks  | Kobo

Amazon AU |  Amazon BR  |  Amazon CA  | Amazon DE  |  Amazon ES |  Amazon FR  |  Amazon IN  |  Amazon IT  |  Amazon JP  |  Amazon MX  |  Amazon NL  |   Amazon UK

Giveaway Opportunity! Be sure to leave a comment here on my blog to be in the running for my giveaway – an eCopy of If My Heart Could See You. A winner will be randomly selected and announced on Medieval Monday, May 6th.

Catch last week’s excerpt here: https://RueAllyn.com/blog

And just in case you missed it, I’ve joined up with Kathryn Le Veque’s De Wolfe Pack World connecting her De Wolfe Pack series with my Knights of Berwyck. Check out this novella featuring the parents of Amiria of Berwyck!

 

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To Love A Scottish Laird:

De Wolfe Pack Connected World

#FREE in Kindle Unlimited

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. 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.

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.

Amazon US | Amazon AU | Amazon BR | Amazon CA | Amazon DE | Amazon ES | Amazon FR | Amazon IN | Amazon  IT | Amazon JP | Amazon MX |  Amazon NL | Amazon UK

First Kiss Friday with Ruth Kaufman

On today’s First Kiss Friday, I’d like to introduce you to Amazon Bestselling Author Ruth Kaufman who has the first kiss scene from her novella My Rebel, my Love. Enjoy and happy reading!

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“Thank you, Jenkin. Again. I don’t know what would happen to me without you. I owe you so much.” Eleanor took his hand. “Why are you being so kind to me? Giving me so much of your time and attention?”

He couldn’t continue without bringing the status of their relationship into the open. He wanted her to know the truth. Holding her hand helped the words come a little more easily. “Eleanor, I first had feelings for you during our walk in John’s garden. The better I know you, the more my feelings grow. By now, I’d like to think I know you fairly well.”

An endearing blush was his reward. “Does that mean you have fairly well feelings?”

He laughed. “More than fairly well. Do you have any feelings for me beyond friendship and as your business partner?”

Boldly she met his gaze. “Yes. I wish I didn’t at times, but I do. I think about you when I’m not with you. And want to see you again the minute we part. Every kindness, every smile, adds another stitch to the fabric of my feelings. And as much as I love Mildred, I’d prefer if we were alone.”

“I agree.” As he slid closer to her, her tantalizing scent wafted up. “I want to kiss you, Eleanor.”

“I want that, too. And more,” she whispered. The warmth in her gaze melted his concerns and ignited his desire.

Jenkin bent his head and she tilted hers up. Their gazes linked for a brief moment, then he kissed her. Their lips gently met, once, and then again, until finally the simple kisses turned into what he’d longed for… a true kiss.

She tasted sweeter than his favorite apple custard.

Eleanor drew him closer and pressed against him. Desire surged through him. But they were standing in his hall. She wasn’t his. Fighting his need for Eleanor, he released her with great reluctance.

Just in time, for Mildred returned. Jenkin and Eleanor stood gazing at each other, still stunned by the impact of their kisses.

“Did I miss something?” Mildred asked.

Eleanor turned away, breaking their connection. Against his better judgment, he hoped to reestablish it as soon as possible.

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1216 A.D. Eleanor of Elton fears her time serving the queen is ending. She wants to support herself with embroidery, but single women can face insurmountable challenges establishing a business. When she meets wealthy, handsome rebel baron Jenkin de Lacy at court, she tamps down her attraction and interest because she doesn’t want to depend on a man. And what powerful noble would marry a farmer’s daughter? But…maybe he’d be her partner.

Jenkin de Lacy is one of 25 barons rebelling against King John’s tyranny. Because lovely, intelligent Eleanor so intrigues him and he can’t bear to watch her dream die for lack of funds, he reluctantly agrees to help with her embroidery business. As they grow closer, he wants to do more than work with her, though marriage is far from his mind in these uncertain times and he’d need a noble bride should he decide to wed again. Can love overcome their differences?

Buy Link or read for free in Kindle Unlimited: https://amzn.to/2TZO3iJ

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Bio:

Ruth Kaufman is the author of four medieval romances, two medieval romance 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. Accolades include 2016 Booksellers’ Best Award double winner (Best Historical and Best First Book) and Romance Writers of America® Golden Heart® winner.

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 comedic storyteller.

Websites  https://ruthkaufman.com and http://www.ruthtalks.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

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

IMDb  http://imdb.me/ruthkaufman

 

 

Medieval Monday with Rue Allyn

Today on Medieval Monday it’s my pleasure to welcome fellow Bluestocking Belle Rue Allyn. Rue has a snippet from her novel The Herald’s Heart. Happy reading, my lovelies!

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Snippet:

Talon growled. He could either stay with the horse and lose the maid, or follow the maid and … And what? Stumble blind over a cliff into the sea and lose not only his horse but his life? Nay, only a madman would go wandering around unknown ground in a fog this thick, which made the dunces back in the alehouse look very wise indeed.

Blurb:

Royal herald, Sir Talon Quereste could never love an overly adventurous, impulsive, argumentative woman of dubious background who threatens everything he values. Lady Larkin Roshan can only despise a man who would deny her identity and steal her heritage. So why has fate thrown them together to solve the mysteries of the heart?

Buy Link: https://www.amazon.in/Heralds-Heart-Rue-Allyn/dp/1507201354

Catch last week’s excerpt on Bambi Lynn’s Blog https://bambilynnblog.wordpress.org

Follow me to the final excerpt (and get the entire excerpt in one piece) on my blog next week: https://RueAllyn.com/blog/

First Kiss Friday with Emily EK Murdoch

Welcome to another First Kiss Friday. Today it’s my pleasure to welcome bestselling author Emily Murdoch who has her first kiss scene from her latest novella, Whirlwind with a Wolfe. Happy reading and enjoy, my lovelies!

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Excerpt:

He had never wanted a woman more in his life, but not just for the pleasures of the flesh, but the meeting of two minds. Two rebels without parents to protect them, two people trapped in a hunting lodge, in a whirlwind, who wanted each other. Without the cares of the world holding them back.

“I know,” he spoke low, “that right this moment, whatever happens here will never be spoken about. We can tell the world we met as old friends, and my brothers and their wives would be here. ‘Tis a story all will believe, for why would we lie? No scandal, no loss of reputation, just the chance to…”

Emrick’s voice trailed off, unable to voice the hope in his heart–and his loins. And yet her reputation would already be sullied, missing from her home in the company of a gentleman, no chaperone to keep them apart.

Perhaps he could lie. His servants would certainly repeat whatever he told them. Whatever he needed to do to get Alice into his bed.

“I swear to you,” he breathed. “I will do everything to protect your honour beyond these walls.”

Alice leaned toward him, her lips parted, and Emrick could not turn away from them.

And then she leaned back. In a whisper, she asked, “But why should I trust you? Plenty of gentlemen seduce young women, and they are never able to recover their reputation.”

Emrick smiled. “Some would say the memories of pleasure given were more than enough payment for the loss of reputation.”

He saw the twitch of her fingers at his words, saw the curiosity in her face.

“Pleasure,” she repeated softly.

“Pleasure. ‘Tis an incredible thing, when a man loves a woman, giving her all the delight that her body and his can make.”

Alice’s eyes flickered over him.

“I…I have often wondered,” she admitted in a low whisper. “And yet, ‘tis not to be done by those of good society.”

Emrick swallowed. “No one would ever know. This could be the one opportunity for you to discover what rapture a man can give you before you take to the marriage bed.”

She laughed softly, her head slightly inclined to one side. “And you are the gentleman to give me such rapture, are you?”

Emrick did not have the words to tell her how much he admired her, how he respected her, how he would do almost anything in that moment to claim her.

He raised his hand and placed it on her leg, just below her hip. She was warm, but he was warmer. The thin material of the dressing gown could not hide the quiver of anticipation that thrilled through her. Emrick gently caressed her thigh and toward her core where he wanted to tease and tempt and then thrust himself into.

Alice did not move away, and she moaned.

There was no more holding back. Emrick leaned forward and crushed his lips to hers and tasted the sweet welcome of a woman who actually wanted him. His tongue caressed her lips until it met her own. His hand stroked tantalisingly across her thigh, removing the dressing gown material, brushing against the rougher material of her

undergown. She moaned in his mouth at the contrasting sensations.

A man in search of a woman – but not the one he’s accidentally abducted…

After family fortunes descend, Miss Alice Reynolds has no choice but to leave her life as a lady behind and take up work as a lady’s maid. She had expected nothing but boredom when her mistress’s family decided to visit Wales, so when a stranger abducts her, she really shouldn’t feel this intrigued – or this alive.

Lord Emrick de Wolfe was determined to make his beloved pay for her treachery, but after unhooding his captive in his Welsh hunting lodge, he hardly expected a chit of a girl instead.

Desperate to prove himself to his father and furious with himself for taking the wrong woman, sparks fly as two strong personalities meet – and collide.

But with the notorious storms of the Welsh valleys descending, the mismatched pair are alone, trapped, and forced to discover more about each other than they could have ever expected.

With a whirlwind outside and inside their hearts, will the growing attraction between a woman abducted and a de Wolfe ever lead to something?

Or does Miss Alice Reynolds have even more secrets to reveal than Lord Emrick de Wolfe could ever dream of? Who is the true captive of the de Wolfes?

Buy Link: https://amzn.to/2Ot04XO

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Bio:

Welcome! I love to read and write sweet and steamy historical romance, and if you love falling in love then you’ve come to the right place.

Enjoy my sweet romances written as Emily Murdoch, and my steamy romances as Emily E K Murdoch.

I am a historian and writer, and have a varied career to date: from examining medieval manuscripts to designing museum exhibitions, to working as a researcher for the BBC to working for the National Trust.

My books range from England 1050 to Texas 1848, and I can’t wait for you to fall in love with my heroes and heroines!

Follow me on twitter and instagram @emilyekmurdoch, find me on facebook at www.facebook.com/theemilyekmurdoch and read my blog at www.emilyekmurdoch.com

Twitter: www.twitter.com/emilyekmurdoch

Instagram: www.instagram.com/emilyekmurdoch

Facebook: www.facebook.com/theemilyekmurdoch

Medieval Monday with Bambi Lynn

Today’s guest for Medieval Monday is the wonderful Bambi Lynn. Read on to see her next snippet from her story The Vikings. Enjoy!

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Snippet:

“Do not be afraid, girl. I will not hurt you. As long as you do what you are told, everything will be fine.”

“And if I do not?”

For more information on Bambi and her books, click here.

Five fierce invaders. Five innocent maids. One land to conquer.

THE VIKINGS OF NORMANDY

When the Viking leader, Rollo, sets his sights on conquering Paris, he sends a band of his fiercest warriors to capture a stronghold to shelter the invaders through the winter. Collect all five episodes in one volume.

GUNNAR

Gunnar Sigurdsen finds an unguarded stronghold at the mouth of the Seine River is the perfect target. Oliana du Fossé waits helplessly for her brute of a husband to claim her.

WULF

Wulf contemplates his share of the spoils after capturing a stronghold in Francia, fat with treasure and slaves. Farin longs to escape her fate as bed slave to the most savage barbarian of them all.

BRON

Brondulf Adilson has struck terror into his enemies for as long as he can remember, as well as the women who share his bed. Now he finds himself saddled with a beauty who may just steal his heart.

THORLEIF

Thorleif Rolvsson has been captured by the enemy. The Queen of the Franks has needs. Will a single night of passion change his fate? Or will he dine with his sons in Valhalla?

MAGNUS

Magnus hasn’t the time or motivation to take a wife. Especially not one who will most likely try to slit his throat while he sleeps.

BUY LINK: Amazon

First Kiss Friday with Cathy MacRae

Welcome to First Kiss Friday. You’ve seen author Cathy MacRae’s work here before on our Medieval Monday hop. Today she joins us from Wolfebane Publishing to share the first kiss scene from her novella The Penitent. Our novella’s released as a part of Kathryn Le Veque’s De Wolfe Pack Connected World and we’re thrilled to share this excerpt with you. Happy reading, my lovelies, and enjoy!

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Excerpt:

Simon arched a brow, matching the gesture with a curved lip as he stepped close to Iseabal and tucked a strand of hair behind her ear.

“Ye wouldn’t cheat me out of my three days, would ye?”

A shiver of desire shot through Iseabal before she could steel herself against the reaction. Simon leaned closer, the heat of his body overwhelming, his nearness both a frustration and a delight. Liquid heat softened Iseabal’s bones as Simon kissed her ear.

“Do not forget, my heart. Ye are home.”

“I dinnae say we would wed.”

“Ye will.”

Torn between laughter and outrage, Iseabal planted a fist on one hip. “Ye cannae force me into marriage, Simon de Bretteby.”

He caught her hand and drew it to his lips, dropping a kiss to the backs of her fingers. “I do not plan to force ye, Izzy.”

Blurb:

Simon de Bretteby is one of The Saint’s closest friends and most loyal soldiers. His entire life has revolved around service to Lord de Wolfe’s nephew—except for one summer when he was ordered across the Scottish border to put a stop to a rogue chieftain who’d stolen cattle from an English lord. Injured and separated from his men, de Bretteby had little chance of survival, but a kind-hearted Scottish lass boldly healed his body, though he left his heart in her keeping.

Iseabal Maxwell, daughter of Chief Maxwell’s bastard son, has little love for English soldiers—and even less love for clan politics. With her sister ordered to wed as a pawn for peace along the border, Iseabal expects the same bleak future. As relations between the two nations grows ever more strained, defying her father’s orders by saving the life of an English knight risked much. But letting him go was the hardest thing she has ever done.

Now her life lies in ruins—her father dead after the English besieged their home, her fate decided by a man she fears. What will happen when she appears on Simon’s doorstep, carrying secrets she would die to protect?

Buy link:  https://amzn.to/2JLk4X5

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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!

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/authorcathymacrae/

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

Medieval Monday with Elisabeth Hobbes & a Giveaway!

Welcome to another Medieval Monday, my lovelies. It’s week ten and today’s guest is the fabulous Elisabeth Hobbes who has a excerpt from Beguiled by the Forbidden Knight. Be sure to read all the way to the end to learn about Elisabeth’s giveaway. Happy reading and enjoy!

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Excerpt:

The girl settled for covering her breasts with one arm and the dark triangle between her legs with the splayed fingers of her other hand. Gui did his best not to stare at what she was trying to hide, but she drew more attention to her attributes than she concealed.

Now she was seemingly satisfied with their attempts at modesty, the girl’s screams became words.

‘Leave me alone, dweorgar!’ she cried.

‘Stop screaming,’ Gui ordered. His brain caught up with his ears. ‘What did you call me?’

‘You can speak!’ the girl gasped. Her eyes grew wide with surprise.

Gui frowned, his earlier suspicion that she was mentally deficient creeping back into his mind.

‘Of course I can.’ Her accent had been broad, with the flat vowels of York. He’d understood her words, but it had not come naturally. ‘If you mean in your tongue, then why not?’

He’s her enemy…

…and she must not fall for him!

When her mistress is claimed as an enemy knight’s betrothed, handmaiden Aelfhild knows it would be too dangerous for her lady; she must go in her place. But there’s more to the scarred knight than she first thought—she isn’t expecting to fall for him! As the line between friend and enemy blurs, Aelfhild realizes she might be protecting her mistress, but not her heart…

Buy links

Amazon getbook.at/ForbiddenKnight

Barnes & Noble https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/beguiled-by-the-forbidden-knight-elisabeth-hobbes/1127581333?ean=9781488086755

Harlequin https://www.harlequin.com/shop/books/9781488086755_beguiled-by-the-forbidden-knight.html

Kobo https://www.kobo.com/gb/en/ebook/beguiled-by-the-forbidden-knight-mills-boon-historical

Why would the girl think Gui couldn’t speak? Find out next week on Ruth A. Casie’s blog http://ruthacasie.blogspot.co.uk

Elisabeth is offering one reader chance to win an ebook copy of her brand new Scottish romance, A Runaway Bride for the Highlander which comes out in May.   To be in with a chance all you have to do is leave a comment on each excerpt.

First Kiss Friday with Lana Williams & a Giveaway!

Today on First Kiss Friday I’d like to welcome Lana Williams who will be sharing the first kiss scene from her latest release Ruby’s Gamble. Lana is also offering a giveaway so be sure to read all the way to the end and leave her a comment to be in the running. Good luck and happy reading!

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Excerpt:

Someone struck Gideon in the head with a hammer. He was certain of it. The pounding refused to let him sleep. He opened his eyes slowly, aware of aches in other parts of his body as well.

What the hell had happened? A deep fog held his thoughts, not allowing him to think straight. Nor could he quite remember. Had he overindulged in drink? That seemed unlikely. His mind filled with vague memories of a crowded pub filled with unfamiliar and unfriendly faces.

Except for one.

A beautiful woman with a rose-colored shawl who’d watched him with wary interest. If the circumstances had been different–not that he could remember them–he would’ve approached her, talked to her, charmed her into smiling.

At the moment, lethargy filled him, and he couldn’t bring himself to care that he rested in a strange place. He turned his head only to have the hammer strike harder, causing him to groan.

“Hush,” a feminine voice whispered. A cool hand touched the side of his face gently as though to comfort him. “All is well,” the soft voice promised. “Go back to sleep.”

Groggily, he searched for the source of the voice in the dark room but could only make out the outline of a woman. “Where am I?”

“You’re safe and well cared for,” she whispered. “But you must return to sleep.”

For some odd reason, Gideon trusted her, though he couldn’t say why. His body relaxed and his eyes drifted closed. But curiosity as to the identity of his rescuer opened his eyes again. “Who are you?”

She drew even closer, and the sweet scent of gardenias enveloped him. “I’m here to watch over you. But you must rest.”

“Not until you give me a kiss.” The idea pleased him immensely. How clever of him to think of such a brilliant notion despite the murkiness in his mind.

The sweet voice chuckled softly, a note of unease in it. She was obviously surprised by his request. That made two of them.

“No kisses. Sleep.”

“One kiss,” he argued.

“Sleep.” Her fingers glided over his forehead to his temple and along his sore cheek, making him wince slightly. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to hurt you.”

He reached for her hand and caught it, delighted at his small victory. Her skin felt delicate and soft except for a callus along one finger. He rubbed the spot, for the roughness made her feel real. Then he pulled her closer, hoping to see her features in the dark.

Clear thinking was impossible with the pounding in his head and the fog swallowing his thoughts, but he wanted to see her. Needed to see her. Couldn’t rest until he did.

Her features came into focus in the window’s dim light. Recognition came slowly just like his thoughts. “I know you.” But how or why he couldn’t say.

Her eyes widened in surprise. “Then you must know you’re safe, and that we mean you no harm.”

His mind turned that over, poking at it like a sore tooth, and found it felt true.

“Sleep now.” She tried to pull away, but he held tight.

“One kiss,” he whispered. “Then I shall sleep again.”

Her hand tensed and tried to pull away once more, but he resisted.

“Very well. If you promise to rest.”

He would’ve nodded in agreement, but his head hurt too much. He waited, rewarded when she leaned close and pressed a gentle kiss on his cheek.

“No, not there,” he said, certain she’d purposely misinterpreted his request. He wasn’t so dull-witted as to permit that.

“Where then?” she asked, her voice breathless in the quiet.

With her hand still held prisoner in his, he reached up and tapped a finger to his lips. “Here. That’s where kisses go.”

“Very well.” Her whisper held disapproval, but she leaned close and warm lips pressed his for a long moment.

A mix of tenderness and longing calmed his pounding head, and he wanted to savor the kiss as he knew it was special. Kisses from angels always were.

Then the mist returned to claim him.

Blurb – Ruby’s Gamble by Lana Williams

Ruby Compton’s world is upended when she meets a handsome stranger who doesn’t belong on the rough streets of London she calls home. When the man is knocked unconscious in a brawl, she’s compelled to come to his rescue, unaware her efforts will thrust her family into danger.

Gideon de Wolfe discovers he owes his life to a beautiful woman whose strength and intelligence remind him of the family legend. He intends to find a way to repay her but also determined to reveal who’s behind a lottery scheme that destroyed the lives of some of his workers and nearly took his own.

Ruby is taken aback by Gideon’s gratitude. His kindness and concern–not to mention his kisses–cause her to long for the dreams her harsh life forced her to relinquish years ago.

Now, with criminals after them, Gideon must find a way to end the scheme and save Ruby and her family, as well as himself. Ruby vows to help despite the fact that Gideon has shaken her simple life and it will never be the same. Soon she must decide if she’s willing to gamble everything she thought she wanted for love.

Buy Link – Kindle: https://amzn.to/2U3nXLB

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Bio: Lana Williams is a USA Today Bestselling and Amazon All-Star author who writes historical romance filled with mystery, adventure, and a pinch of paranormal to stir things up. Filled with a love of books from an early age, Lana put pen to paper and decided happy endings were a must in any story she created. She has written over twenty historical romances set in Victorian London and Medieval England.

Her latest series is The Seven Curses of London, set in Victorian times, and shares stories of men and women who attempt to battle the ills of London, and the love they find along the way that truly gives them something worth fighting for.

She writes in the Rocky Mountains with her husband, two growing sons, and two labs, and loves hearing from readers. Stop by her website and say hello!

Links:

Website: https://lanawilliams.net/

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/LanaWilliams28

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorlanawilliams/

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/lanawilliams28/

BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/lana-williams

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Lana-Williams/e/B008QDP1A2/

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6451482.Lana_Williams

 

Giveaway – Leave a comment with your favorite thing to do in April for a chance to win an ebook of Ruby’s Gamble!

New Release from Amanda Mariel

Congratulations to USA Today Bestselling Author Amanda Mariel for her latest release, One Wanton Wager. Isn’t this cover just stunning? Be sure to pick up Amanda’s novella priced at only $0.99! Happy reading, my lovelies!

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A young widow in need of a husband…A determined rogue…and One Wanton Wager…Can the proposal of Alex Le Bec lead to ever lasting love?

A young widow in need of a husband…

Lady Daphne Summerville has grown weary of accepting the charity of her late husband’s family. No longer willing to be a burden to them, Daphne begins searching for a husband, a task that would be far easier to accomplish if not for the handsome rogue chasing her skirts.

A determined rogue…

From the moment the Earl of Bedford, Alex Le Bec lays eyes on Lady Summerville he can’t get her out of his mind. Now he’s determined to charm the attractive, witty woman into being his mistress. Too bad she wants nothing to do with an affair, and even less to do with him.

One Wanton Wager…

Not one to be easily dissuaded, Alex proposes a wager. He will fund Daphne’s future if she allows him the opportunity to woo her into something more clandestine. There is one catch–she must kiss him each time they are together. Daphne accepts the wager, confident that she can refrain from falling for the rogue.

After all, how much damage can a few kisses do?

Buy Link: Amazon

Or read it for #FREE in Kindle Unlimited!