My Demands of the Heart book tour starts on Monday, Febru...
My Demands of the Heart book tour starts on Monday, February 20. I hope you'll join me, stop by the various blogs and say hi. Check out my Book Tour page for the complete schedule and well as contest details.
Here's an excerpt to get you in the mood:
PartOneChapterOne
June,1807LondonAs he approached the Amberstons'cavernous ballroom, the familiar burn of desire consumed Richard Fanshaw, quickenedhis pulse, and made his heart thrum. He'd felt it many times these last monthsand recognized it for what it was—he was in love. He stopped to watch from thearched entryway as the object of his desire, Miss Victoria Bramhill, chattedwith her usual coterie of young swains. Dressed as the legendary highwaymanDick Turpin, he appreciated the long, skirted coat of his costume, for hisdesire was having an uncomfortable effect on his loins."Lud, I've not even touched heryet," he mumbled, trying to affect some dignity in his gait.His embarrassing reaction to herhappened with predictable regularity. They'd agreed to forestall anannouncement and keep their relationship quiet until after the Season. He'dalways prided himself on his control and ability to restrain his urges, but asthe Season drew to a close, his mind wandered to thoughts of obtaining aspecial license and marrying the luscious Miss Bramhill before he threw cautionto the wind and ruined her before the fact."My father said if he was toexpend the sums of money required to launch my sister and me into society, wemust see it through," Victoria had told Richard. "He wishes to sizeup all of the potentially marriageable candidates. Once he's made up his mind,I'll be married off to some rich, old man, and he'll out of debt before year'send.""But I'm a rich young man.""I fear he will never see youas marriage material, Richard," she'd told him. "He wishes me tomarry title and money. He seems tofeel I am obligated to see him through his financial storm."Richard had been deeply gratifiedeach time Victoria expressed her desire to marry him, not for his fortune,which he'd amassed through no lack of hard work before his twenty-fourthbirthday, but for love."Though my father is intent onmy future husband being the bearer of a title, I'm sure once the chaff isseparated from the wheat, I will be able to convince him of your other, finerqualities."Richard hoped that was the case, forhe couldn't imagine his future life without Victoria as its focus."My, my, now is that not asight? Not since Vienna have I seen such a grand display," said a cynicalKing Henry VIII."Damn, must you sneak up on melike that?" Richard started at the sound of his friend's voice. "Youhave a disturbing habit of simply materializing." And unwelcome."So sorry, old man. If you hadn'thad your mind under those glorious skirts, you might have heard me approach.Nonetheless, she is a rather beautiful woman, don't you think?""Yes, she is rather stunning."He kept his own counsel as to just how deeply he felt about Victoria. From hisparticular angle, he could see only her luscious mouth, for the elaborate goldhalf-mask all but covered her vivid green eyes. However, what he could see tookhis breath away."Sounds to me as though youhave a tendre, Dick."Thomas Daintree, the Earl of Charrington,was dressed this night as King Henry VIII, though for the life of him, Richardwould never understand why Charrington attended affairs like Lord and LadyAmberston's Masquerade Ball. In all the years Richard had know the earl, Thomashad never been a social fellow, and of late, he'd grown even more unpleasantthan Richard could remember.Richard ignored him.He saw Victoria, even surrounded bya dozen admirers, all eminently unqualifiedto breathe the same air, search the room for him. When their eyes met, shesmiled so brightly, she outshone the hundreds of candles that illuminated theroom. Respecting their agreement, he acted as though he were just one of her manyavid devotees, requesting a dance or two—waltzes, of course—and engaging inconversation only meant to prolong their moments together. On occasion, theyenjoyed a stroll."Do you know her?"Charrington asked."Yes, I do. Why do youask?""Mmm, I would love to see whatshe looks like under all that crimsonsatin. What say you, Dick?"Richard looked at his compatriotwith disgust. "I say stubble it, Charrington. Have a care when speaking ofa lady."Charrington's indecorous remarks hadlong ago begun to chafe. Even allowing for Thomas' inebriated state, Richard'sstomach wrenched to hear Victoria spoken of in such a fashion."She's like all the rest. Notworth the blunt to dress 'em.""Aren't we especially blue-deviledtonight?""I see no reason to change now.One chit is just like the rest." Bitterness oozed from his words."Excuse me, Charrington,"Richard said in disgust, pushing away from his post against the wall. While thatposition had given him the perfect vantage point from which to admire his lady,he wanted nothing more than to be rid of Thomas and his vile musings.Richard had known Charrington sincetheir days at Harrow. Thomas had inherited at seventeen, when his father haddied while enjoying sexual congress with one of his many whores. Word of thefamily's embarrassment had passed with rapid precision through the network ofservants that kept the London gossip mill well greased. Thomas suffered thetaunting of his fellow students while trying to fight back, something at whichhe was wholly inept.Though Richard had saved the earl'sarrogant arse from several rather severe beatings at the hands of the otherboys, his protection had only served to fuel Thomas' anger.Spotting Victoria on the dance floorthrew him happily into much more pleasant thoughts. He casually circled theballroom, while he longed to be at the side of his lady. The musicians struckup the first waltz, and he determined to claim it without words.As he inched closer, theintoxicating aroma of lavender filled his senses. Her beauty, even partiallydisguised, was overwhelming. The jeweled mask sparkled in the candlelight, andeven the few visible curls shone as brown silk. Victoria's green-jeweled eyessparkled upon seeing him. With a deft turn on her heel, she excluded all theoverzealous young lords and made Richard the focus of her attention."Did you come to steal my heart,sir?" she whispered, eyeing his costume. "No need, for I give itfreely.""Well then, my dear, stand anddeliver."They laughed in murmured tones asthe music swelled, and Richard took her into his arms. They swirled and twirled,staring into each other's eyes. Desire fired through his body, once again makinghim ever so glad the dastardly outlaw he portrayed tonight favored along-skirted coat. He would never be able to face the crowded ballroom withoutit."I am not sure I can go on likethis," she whispered."Of course you can, sweeting.The Season will be over within a month. Afterwards, I will go to your fatherand ask for your hand. You must be patient, my darling." Good advice, old man."I'm tired of the pretense. Imust keep shooing away those inane pups, when all I want is to be yoursforever."Richard maneuvered them through theFrench doors, and onto the marble terrace. They danced in the cooler air, awayfrom the usual ballroom smells of beeswax, perfumes, and overheated humanity, allcombined to form a sickening miasma that hung over them in the June heat."Alone at last." Hechuckled. "Would you care to walk in the garden?"Victoria looked at him with a longinghe well recognized. Her silent plea was one he understood.Richard stopped their progress, thenreleased the ribbons on her mask. Holding the elaborate covering in his hand,he said, "There; that beautiful face should never be hidden."He led her beyond the terrace steps,across an expanse of freshly mown grass, then into the fragrant rose garden.Other couples ambled about thevarious garden paths, enjoying the moonlit grounds of the Mayfair mansion. Theintricacy of the design was impressive, boasting water fountains and elaboratesculptures depicting mythical figures.Victoria's crimson satin dressswished along the path, the gentle hiss mixing with the night sounds ofcrickets and an occasional small creature rustling the underbrush. The faintstrains of the music gave the garden an even more magical quality.Her chatter about her costume, andhow she'd had to plead with her father to provide it, was surely nothing butnervous energy. "I told him that to attract just the right gentleman, oneneeded such a . . . ."Richard placed two fingers overVictoria's lips. "Shush, I do notwant to talk about your father, especially not during our few precious, stolenmoments."They walked the pea gravel patharound the largest fountain. Life-size marble figures ringed the elaboratepool, providing them with secreted alcoves. They stopped beside Hera, dressedin a flowing white gown.Water burbled from the mouth of agigantic up-upturned fish, lending a gentle, soothing sound to the night. That,added to the fragrant roses and moonlight, made the setting exquisite."What a lovely place," Victoriasaid."Not quite as lovely as you, mydear." He dipped his head and kissed her sumptuous pink lips. Sheresponded by opening them as he probed with his tongue. Richard itched to givehis hands free rein, but to do so would pitch them beyond a simple kiss. Undeniably,Victoria aroused him, despite all propriety."Oh my," she said as they pulledback to draw breath. She touched her kiss-swollen lips and smiled coyly."Yes, I would say that is aproper assessment," Richard said, his voice thick with desire. He placedhis palm on her face, rubbing his thumb over her cheekbone. She leaned into hishand and closed her eyes. While he wished the evening would never end, he wasalso unsure he could exercise more self-control than he actually possessed."I believe we should rejoin theBall," he said reluctantly, as he placed his hand on her elbow.Victoria pouted prettily, thennodded in agreement.Richard was grateful she didn'tprotest. His burgeoning desire simmered dangerously close to the surface, andhe was sure she had no idea what could happen, should he forego all commonsense.They continued their stroll aroundthe fountain with alacrity. As they reached the stone stairs leading to theterrace, they encountered a regal figure, leaning against the balustrade. "Nicewalk, Dick?" King Henry VIII spatout."Quite."Victoria struggled as she tried toput her mask back on."Let me help you," Richardsaid. "Go in now, I'll follow presently."* * * * *Victoria's sister, Almira, grabbedher by the arm the moment Victoria reentered the ballroom. "Vicky, I'm inlove with the most incredible gentleman." Almira bubbled, so excited shewas almost stuttering.Victoria looked over her shoulder asAlmira dragged her across the floor, and saw Richard enter, followed by thesullen King Henry VIII."Really?" Victoriamumbled."Yes, yes, he's the armyofficer I've been raving about for the last month." Pointing, she said,"Look, there he is, the one in the red jacket.""Allie, they are all wearing red jackets," she said,"all twenty of them. Which one ishe?"Allie turned and pointed toward aconclave of similarly dressed army officers. "He's the one with the divineblack hair. There, there, you see, he just nodded in this direction. Do you seehim?"Victoria again spotted Richard, whonodded and smiled."Vicky, you aren't paying anyattention to me.""I'm sorry, dearest, of courseI am.""Well, then, do you seehim?""I believe I do. Ooh, he is anattractive one. What is his name again?""He is Lieutenant ArmandBlakeley. Isn't that the most divine name you've ever heard in your life? Bythe way, have you seen your handsome Mr. Fanshaw this evening?""Yes, I've seen him. Do youfind him good-looking, Allie?" Victoria whispered, bringing her hand toher lips in an effort to hide her guilty smile."Indeed I do. Tall,broad-shouldered, oh, my Lord, if I didn't have my Armand . . . .""And don't forget thosebeautiful brown eyes.""I can honestly say I've neverlooked at his eyes closely enough to know their color."Victoria smiled. "Very good toknow. Besides, he'd too old for you, little sister.""He's barely four andtwenty.""As I said, much too old foryou.""I do hope you aren't referringto me, Miss Bramhill."Victoria turned and saw Allie'ssolder at Allie's elbow. "Indeed not, Lieutenant."Allie gave her a smile and a nod,then accepted Blakeley's invitation to dance.How smart he looked in his scarletcoat and buff breeches, Victoria mused, and how easily her sister fell in andout of love with no more than a moment's notice. Odd that, after a month'stime, the Lieutenant should still have Almira's rapt attention.Just then, King Henry VIII approached,leaving Victoria little opportunity to avoid him. He bowed and, in a tone asdry as sand, he said, "May I have this dance, Miss Bramhill?"With a nod, she reluctantlyaccepted.Charrington spoke not a word asVictoria executed the steps of the quadrille as her dance master had taught.She smiled, determined no one should see how deeply she disliked her partner.The earl's dark eyes bore into her, leavingher with a distinct wish to bathe.* * * * *Richard grew piqued at Charrington'ssudden interest in Victoria. The fact that she rewarded his attention with afriendly smile did nothing to allay his fear that she might have a slightinterest in the surly earl.Shortly after the removal of allmasks, Victoria, her sister, and their Aunt Louisa, who acted as theirchaperone, left the ballroom. Following at a discreet distance, Richard heardVictoria's aunt request their carriage. Richard drew solace at their departure;at least she'd not be in anyone else's arms this night, albeit if only on thedance floor. She was his and only his.Another insidious pang of jealousy lodgedin his throat. Seeing her in the earl's arms had unsettled him, thoughlogically, he knew how wrong he was. Nevertheless, he would have to bide histime, which would surely be the death of him, and wait until they couldannounce their engagement.As he stood at the front door andwatched the footman hand Victoria into her carriage, he heard footfalls behindhim. He turned to see Charrington's approach, bringing with him a smugexpression."She is indeed light on herfeet, Dick. With the proper impetus, she could simply be blown away."
Demands of the Heart will be available at Noble Romance Publishing on February 20.
Here's an excerpt to get you in the mood:
PartOneChapterOne
June,1807LondonAs he approached the Amberstons'cavernous ballroom, the familiar burn of desire consumed Richard Fanshaw, quickenedhis pulse, and made his heart thrum. He'd felt it many times these last monthsand recognized it for what it was—he was in love. He stopped to watch from thearched entryway as the object of his desire, Miss Victoria Bramhill, chattedwith her usual coterie of young swains. Dressed as the legendary highwaymanDick Turpin, he appreciated the long, skirted coat of his costume, for hisdesire was having an uncomfortable effect on his loins."Lud, I've not even touched heryet," he mumbled, trying to affect some dignity in his gait.His embarrassing reaction to herhappened with predictable regularity. They'd agreed to forestall anannouncement and keep their relationship quiet until after the Season. He'dalways prided himself on his control and ability to restrain his urges, but asthe Season drew to a close, his mind wandered to thoughts of obtaining aspecial license and marrying the luscious Miss Bramhill before he threw cautionto the wind and ruined her before the fact."My father said if he was toexpend the sums of money required to launch my sister and me into society, wemust see it through," Victoria had told Richard. "He wishes to sizeup all of the potentially marriageable candidates. Once he's made up his mind,I'll be married off to some rich, old man, and he'll out of debt before year'send.""But I'm a rich young man.""I fear he will never see youas marriage material, Richard," she'd told him. "He wishes me tomarry title and money. He seems tofeel I am obligated to see him through his financial storm."Richard had been deeply gratifiedeach time Victoria expressed her desire to marry him, not for his fortune,which he'd amassed through no lack of hard work before his twenty-fourthbirthday, but for love."Though my father is intent onmy future husband being the bearer of a title, I'm sure once the chaff isseparated from the wheat, I will be able to convince him of your other, finerqualities."Richard hoped that was the case, forhe couldn't imagine his future life without Victoria as its focus."My, my, now is that not asight? Not since Vienna have I seen such a grand display," said a cynicalKing Henry VIII."Damn, must you sneak up on melike that?" Richard started at the sound of his friend's voice. "Youhave a disturbing habit of simply materializing." And unwelcome."So sorry, old man. If you hadn'thad your mind under those glorious skirts, you might have heard me approach.Nonetheless, she is a rather beautiful woman, don't you think?""Yes, she is rather stunning."He kept his own counsel as to just how deeply he felt about Victoria. From hisparticular angle, he could see only her luscious mouth, for the elaborate goldhalf-mask all but covered her vivid green eyes. However, what he could see tookhis breath away."Sounds to me as though youhave a tendre, Dick."Thomas Daintree, the Earl of Charrington,was dressed this night as King Henry VIII, though for the life of him, Richardwould never understand why Charrington attended affairs like Lord and LadyAmberston's Masquerade Ball. In all the years Richard had know the earl, Thomashad never been a social fellow, and of late, he'd grown even more unpleasantthan Richard could remember.Richard ignored him.He saw Victoria, even surrounded bya dozen admirers, all eminently unqualifiedto breathe the same air, search the room for him. When their eyes met, shesmiled so brightly, she outshone the hundreds of candles that illuminated theroom. Respecting their agreement, he acted as though he were just one of her manyavid devotees, requesting a dance or two—waltzes, of course—and engaging inconversation only meant to prolong their moments together. On occasion, theyenjoyed a stroll."Do you know her?"Charrington asked."Yes, I do. Why do youask?""Mmm, I would love to see whatshe looks like under all that crimsonsatin. What say you, Dick?"Richard looked at his compatriotwith disgust. "I say stubble it, Charrington. Have a care when speaking ofa lady."Charrington's indecorous remarks hadlong ago begun to chafe. Even allowing for Thomas' inebriated state, Richard'sstomach wrenched to hear Victoria spoken of in such a fashion."She's like all the rest. Notworth the blunt to dress 'em.""Aren't we especially blue-deviledtonight?""I see no reason to change now.One chit is just like the rest." Bitterness oozed from his words."Excuse me, Charrington,"Richard said in disgust, pushing away from his post against the wall. While thatposition had given him the perfect vantage point from which to admire his lady,he wanted nothing more than to be rid of Thomas and his vile musings.Richard had known Charrington sincetheir days at Harrow. Thomas had inherited at seventeen, when his father haddied while enjoying sexual congress with one of his many whores. Word of thefamily's embarrassment had passed with rapid precision through the network ofservants that kept the London gossip mill well greased. Thomas suffered thetaunting of his fellow students while trying to fight back, something at whichhe was wholly inept.Though Richard had saved the earl'sarrogant arse from several rather severe beatings at the hands of the otherboys, his protection had only served to fuel Thomas' anger.Spotting Victoria on the dance floorthrew him happily into much more pleasant thoughts. He casually circled theballroom, while he longed to be at the side of his lady. The musicians struckup the first waltz, and he determined to claim it without words.As he inched closer, theintoxicating aroma of lavender filled his senses. Her beauty, even partiallydisguised, was overwhelming. The jeweled mask sparkled in the candlelight, andeven the few visible curls shone as brown silk. Victoria's green-jeweled eyessparkled upon seeing him. With a deft turn on her heel, she excluded all theoverzealous young lords and made Richard the focus of her attention."Did you come to steal my heart,sir?" she whispered, eyeing his costume. "No need, for I give itfreely.""Well then, my dear, stand anddeliver."They laughed in murmured tones asthe music swelled, and Richard took her into his arms. They swirled and twirled,staring into each other's eyes. Desire fired through his body, once again makinghim ever so glad the dastardly outlaw he portrayed tonight favored along-skirted coat. He would never be able to face the crowded ballroom withoutit."I am not sure I can go on likethis," she whispered."Of course you can, sweeting.The Season will be over within a month. Afterwards, I will go to your fatherand ask for your hand. You must be patient, my darling." Good advice, old man."I'm tired of the pretense. Imust keep shooing away those inane pups, when all I want is to be yoursforever."Richard maneuvered them through theFrench doors, and onto the marble terrace. They danced in the cooler air, awayfrom the usual ballroom smells of beeswax, perfumes, and overheated humanity, allcombined to form a sickening miasma that hung over them in the June heat."Alone at last." Hechuckled. "Would you care to walk in the garden?"Victoria looked at him with a longinghe well recognized. Her silent plea was one he understood.Richard stopped their progress, thenreleased the ribbons on her mask. Holding the elaborate covering in his hand,he said, "There; that beautiful face should never be hidden."He led her beyond the terrace steps,across an expanse of freshly mown grass, then into the fragrant rose garden.Other couples ambled about thevarious garden paths, enjoying the moonlit grounds of the Mayfair mansion. Theintricacy of the design was impressive, boasting water fountains and elaboratesculptures depicting mythical figures.Victoria's crimson satin dressswished along the path, the gentle hiss mixing with the night sounds ofcrickets and an occasional small creature rustling the underbrush. The faintstrains of the music gave the garden an even more magical quality.Her chatter about her costume, andhow she'd had to plead with her father to provide it, was surely nothing butnervous energy. "I told him that to attract just the right gentleman, oneneeded such a . . . ."Richard placed two fingers overVictoria's lips. "Shush, I do notwant to talk about your father, especially not during our few precious, stolenmoments."They walked the pea gravel patharound the largest fountain. Life-size marble figures ringed the elaboratepool, providing them with secreted alcoves. They stopped beside Hera, dressedin a flowing white gown.Water burbled from the mouth of agigantic up-upturned fish, lending a gentle, soothing sound to the night. That,added to the fragrant roses and moonlight, made the setting exquisite."What a lovely place," Victoriasaid."Not quite as lovely as you, mydear." He dipped his head and kissed her sumptuous pink lips. Sheresponded by opening them as he probed with his tongue. Richard itched to givehis hands free rein, but to do so would pitch them beyond a simple kiss. Undeniably,Victoria aroused him, despite all propriety."Oh my," she said as they pulledback to draw breath. She touched her kiss-swollen lips and smiled coyly."Yes, I would say that is aproper assessment," Richard said, his voice thick with desire. He placedhis palm on her face, rubbing his thumb over her cheekbone. She leaned into hishand and closed her eyes. While he wished the evening would never end, he wasalso unsure he could exercise more self-control than he actually possessed."I believe we should rejoin theBall," he said reluctantly, as he placed his hand on her elbow.Victoria pouted prettily, thennodded in agreement.Richard was grateful she didn'tprotest. His burgeoning desire simmered dangerously close to the surface, andhe was sure she had no idea what could happen, should he forego all commonsense.They continued their stroll aroundthe fountain with alacrity. As they reached the stone stairs leading to theterrace, they encountered a regal figure, leaning against the balustrade. "Nicewalk, Dick?" King Henry VIII spatout."Quite."Victoria struggled as she tried toput her mask back on."Let me help you," Richardsaid. "Go in now, I'll follow presently."* * * * *Victoria's sister, Almira, grabbedher by the arm the moment Victoria reentered the ballroom. "Vicky, I'm inlove with the most incredible gentleman." Almira bubbled, so excited shewas almost stuttering.Victoria looked over her shoulder asAlmira dragged her across the floor, and saw Richard enter, followed by thesullen King Henry VIII."Really?" Victoriamumbled."Yes, yes, he's the armyofficer I've been raving about for the last month." Pointing, she said,"Look, there he is, the one in the red jacket.""Allie, they are all wearing red jackets," she said,"all twenty of them. Which one ishe?"Allie turned and pointed toward aconclave of similarly dressed army officers. "He's the one with the divineblack hair. There, there, you see, he just nodded in this direction. Do you seehim?"Victoria again spotted Richard, whonodded and smiled."Vicky, you aren't paying anyattention to me.""I'm sorry, dearest, of courseI am.""Well, then, do you seehim?""I believe I do. Ooh, he is anattractive one. What is his name again?""He is Lieutenant ArmandBlakeley. Isn't that the most divine name you've ever heard in your life? Bythe way, have you seen your handsome Mr. Fanshaw this evening?""Yes, I've seen him. Do youfind him good-looking, Allie?" Victoria whispered, bringing her hand toher lips in an effort to hide her guilty smile."Indeed I do. Tall,broad-shouldered, oh, my Lord, if I didn't have my Armand . . . .""And don't forget thosebeautiful brown eyes.""I can honestly say I've neverlooked at his eyes closely enough to know their color."Victoria smiled. "Very good toknow. Besides, he'd too old for you, little sister.""He's barely four andtwenty.""As I said, much too old foryou.""I do hope you aren't referringto me, Miss Bramhill."Victoria turned and saw Allie'ssolder at Allie's elbow. "Indeed not, Lieutenant."Allie gave her a smile and a nod,then accepted Blakeley's invitation to dance.How smart he looked in his scarletcoat and buff breeches, Victoria mused, and how easily her sister fell in andout of love with no more than a moment's notice. Odd that, after a month'stime, the Lieutenant should still have Almira's rapt attention.Just then, King Henry VIII approached,leaving Victoria little opportunity to avoid him. He bowed and, in a tone asdry as sand, he said, "May I have this dance, Miss Bramhill?"With a nod, she reluctantlyaccepted.Charrington spoke not a word asVictoria executed the steps of the quadrille as her dance master had taught.She smiled, determined no one should see how deeply she disliked her partner.The earl's dark eyes bore into her, leavingher with a distinct wish to bathe.* * * * *Richard grew piqued at Charrington'ssudden interest in Victoria. The fact that she rewarded his attention with afriendly smile did nothing to allay his fear that she might have a slightinterest in the surly earl.Shortly after the removal of allmasks, Victoria, her sister, and their Aunt Louisa, who acted as theirchaperone, left the ballroom. Following at a discreet distance, Richard heardVictoria's aunt request their carriage. Richard drew solace at their departure;at least she'd not be in anyone else's arms this night, albeit if only on thedance floor. She was his and only his.Another insidious pang of jealousy lodgedin his throat. Seeing her in the earl's arms had unsettled him, thoughlogically, he knew how wrong he was. Nevertheless, he would have to bide histime, which would surely be the death of him, and wait until they couldannounce their engagement.As he stood at the front door andwatched the footman hand Victoria into her carriage, he heard footfalls behindhim. He turned to see Charrington's approach, bringing with him a smugexpression."She is indeed light on herfeet, Dick. With the proper impetus, she could simply be blown away."
Demands of the Heart will be available at Noble Romance Publishing on February 20.
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