 Duty is the essence of manhood. Welcome to Week 4 of Medieval Monday! I am delighted to host Bambi Lynn this week. I'm in the middle of reading her medieval romance, A Knight in Rusted Armor. It's sexy, action-packed, and the characters are wonderful. For more medieval romance, be sure to check out Medieval Romance Lovers on FB! We're also on Twitter. #MedMonSpring21 About the book: Allys Stone would risk repute as a ruined woman to gain control of her life. Thorin Svenson would battle the most skilled knights in the realm to win her. Theirs is a love story of fairy tales and wild passion, a battle of wills as well as brawn. Allys wants to choose her own husband, one who loves life and laughter as much as she does. One who considers her a partner instead of a possession. She has never had any choice but to live by her father’s decisions, and now he’s offering her as grand prize in a tournament. Thorin must win the hand of a nobleman’s daughter to regain the wealth and position of his family. Consumed by guilt, he will risk his very life to win. Not even her attempts to sabotage his victory will get in his way. And now for the snippet! He removed his own helmet and looked up at her. “You favor this coward?” He pulled himself up onto the edge of the dais, holding on the rail and balancing precariously before her. Without a word, he tossed the scarf at her feet. The Frenchman pulled her from the edge and led her away. BUY LINK: Amazon For last week's snippet from A Knight in Rusted Armor, check out Jenna Jaxon's blog. Next up, Sophia Nye! For this week's snippet from Tremors, be sure to visit Bambi Lynn's blog! 
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 For the Buzzwordathon challenge this month, I chose to read The Yellow House by Patricia Falvey. It's good -- passionate and well-written, a bittersweet fictional account of one woman's struggles as her beloved Ireland fractures and her family falls apart. I found the story to be heavy and painful at times, but also realistic and not without hope. If you are interested in the history of Northern Ireland, you should definitely give it a try.  Astonishing book, amazing narration. There are surprises through to the end. Trust Jodi Picoult to tell a great story! Five stars!
 The Wolf surrenders to no one. Welcome to Medieval Monday, Week 3! The theme for #MedMonSpring21 is "First Kiss" and I am excited to be hosting Mary Morgan! She's sharing a snippet from Magnar, which I have already read, loved, and reviewed. This is a first kiss you won't want to miss! For more medieval romance, check out Medieval Romance Lovers on FB! Enjoy the snippet! Elspeth lifted her head as a long tear trickled down her cheek. “Then there is hope?” “Aye. You shall marry me. The king desires this union.” Her mouth dropped open as she gaped at him like a forlorn fish. Quickly snapping it shut, she struggled to be free from his hold. “Nae!” About the Book: Known as the Barbarian, Magnar MacAlpin is a fierce ruler for those under his command. As leader of the Wolves of Clan Sutherland, his loyalty and obedience lies with Scotland. However, the king’s last demand is not something Magnar will tolerate. After Elspeth Gunn’s brother the Chieftain of Castle Steinn is murdered, she flees with her nephew, and finds safety amongst a band of men who are rumored to be part wolf. When the king forces her to wed a heathen Northman, she fears losing her heart and soul not only to the man, but the beast as well. In order to restore peace to a shattered clan, Magnar and Elspeth travel a treacherous path that challenges their beliefs. When evil seeks to destroy ancient traditions, will Magnar be compelled to restrain his wolf or allow him free to protect those he loves? Buy Links: AMAZON | BARNES & NOBLE | APPLE BOOKS | KOBO Last week’s snippet on Ashley’s York’s blog: https://www.ashleyyorkauthor.com/blog-old Follow along next week on Barbara Bettis’ blog: http://www.barbarabettis.com/index.php/blog/ For another peek at Tremors, be sure to visit Mary's Tavern.  It doesn't look so bad, I know, but it's been a little rough here in Texas. We had a "historic deep freeze" across the state. Lives were lost and there was a great deal of damage to facilities and buildings both public and private. I had decided that spring weather was actually here to stay. It's crazy, really, how I had allowed myself to be lulled into a false sense of security – unwise for a gardener. I’m familiar with our weather, the uncertainty and extremes. But it felt like spring. I had become consumed with ambition and worry over our spring garden – whether we would be able to rebuild or reinforce some of the planter boxes by Easter, what needed to be moved, pulled, sown. I had pretty much started to fret. And then the freeze put things back into perspective. Like so very many across the state, we lost power for days and then running water. I think the lows reached 10 degrees in our area. Our pipes busted, drenching our main living areas with the notable exception of the kitchen. I realize that many people have close family and good neighbors. I also realize that some have none. But for just a moment, I'd like to reflect on our own, personal situation. Our loved ones – our family, our friends – were with us, supporting us through it all. Those who had generators – or power – provided sanctuary. They not only insisted; they hosted multiple families. My husband's brother and his wife (sister-in-heart) and their sons made it feel like a beautiful family party at their house – for days. Our (grown) children and their friends helped us move furniture and clothing out of the damaged areas. They worked so hard -- with small children and worries of their own -- helping us move clothing and furniture, checked the attic, helped with the water. It was cold, literally freezing, and still they worked. My brother was here instantly, offering shelter, providing food, and contacting a contractor when we hardly could think. It was raining inside our house. The contractor showed up with plumbers as if by magic. She wants to help as many as she can, to get water running in as many homes as possible, and take care of restoration after. As much as possible, she doesn’t want anyone who comes to her waiting for water. Some people are on a two-week waiting list. Love and care and help and hugs – we didn’t have to seek those necessities any more than warm beds and food. And our dear ones have stayed with us, checking us, sharing updates, and food so that we don’t have to worry about it as we try to organize our chaos. Now, a few days after the fiasco, we have power and water. The weather is back to normal, too. We also have holes in our ceilings, bubbling walls, and damaged floors, amongst other issues. We've been trying to organize our upstairs, which has become our new apartment for a while. And our hearts are full. Our loved ones have continued checking on us, making sure we're okay, that we don't need anything. They've provided beautiful meals, touched base. Friends have called. Our little grandchildren "ninja'ed" kolaches and donuts for our breakfast this morning and baked cake for us. And all, I know, are concerned and wishing us well with all their hearts. What a reminder to take nothing and no one for granted. I'm just so thankful. And the garden? I won’t say “what garden”. I have not forgotten it. But it's stronger and better than I gave it credit for. It can take care of itself for a while. Thank you -- you all know who you are. Thank you and God bless you.   The worst betrayals come from within. Welcome to Week 2 of Medieval Monday! This season’s theme is “First Kiss”. It's going to be a very romantic spring!
This week I am pleased to host talented author Jenna Jaxon. The snippet is from her medieval romance Betrayal, Book 2 in her Time Enough to Love series. I just love the title, and the snippets are even better! In this scene: After learning that her beloved Geoffrey has been forced to marry another woman, Alyse is talking to Geoffrey’s best friend, Thomas, about her best option going forward--marriage to him. Enjoy the snippet! Thomas glanced down at her hand, still clasped in his. “You do not care for me as you do for Geoffrey. You love Geoffrey.” These were not questions, neither were they spoken with regret or sentiment. She supposed Thomas had no illusions about her feelings for him. “And would it help, perhaps, to know that while I respect you, I do not love you as Geoffrey does?” Alyse raised her head sharply, but after a moment’s thought, she nodded and said, “Aye, that puts us on equal footing, mayhap.” He squeezed her hand and continued. “It is simply an arranged marriage, such as any young woman might hope for. Have you any objection to me as suitor other than your continued affection for Geoffrey?” About the Book: After a night of passion with her betrothed, Sir Geoffrey Longford, Lady Alyse de Courcy is eagerly looking forward to her wedding. But when Geoffrey is forced to marry another, a heartbroken and possibly pregnant Alyse finds herself in her own private hell. She must either gamble with her reputation or marry someone she does not love. A reputed connoisseur of women, Thomas, Lord Braeton, has dallied with many ladies of King Edward’s court, although he has favored none. However, as Geoffrey’s best friend, Thomas has sworn to serve and protect Alyse, an oath now sorely tested when he agrees to marry her—in name only—to guard her reputation. Yet, as they grow closer, and Thomas discovers Alyse’s sweet but spirited nature, he comes to desire a marriage in truth. Can he overcome her memory of Geoffrey, or is Thomas doomed to burn with passion for a woman he can never possess? Last week’s snippet can be found on Jenna’s blog. Buy Links: Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00I4IKQ8G/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_bibl_vppi_i25 Smashwords,: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/403200 B & N: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/betrayal-jenna-jaxon/1118591851?ean=2940045674331 iTunes: https://books.apple.com/us/book/betrayal-book-2-time-enough-to-love/id815348280 Kobo: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/betrayal-book-2-time-enough-to-love Follow along next week on Bambi Lynn’s blog. And if you’re interested in this week’s snippet from Tremors, be sure to visit Jenna’s blog.  Welcome to our Valentine’s Day Blog Hop! This is so much fun! Thank you, Sophia Nye, for that delicious little something extra from A Highland Autumn and for your giveaway. For my bit of flash fiction, I thought we’d spend a few special moments with Lachlann and Deidre. This is brand new material. I hope you enjoy it. Following is information about my Valentine giveaway, and if you leave a comment here, on this post, you will be entered into the drawing. Grand Prize: US$75 gift card. Tremors... just a little bit more Lachlann stood beside his father, looking down at the fields spread out below them. Loch Nis flowed in the distance as sheaths of oats swayed gently and rows of blue-green kale rippled in the breeze. Bundles of flax, tied with rushes, lay neatly in another field. “It was a fine day’s work,” his father said. “You’ve done everything right, son. You will have a good harvest.” It had been so good to work with him again. He clapped his father’s broad shoulder. “Thank you, Faðir. You’ve taught me well. Are you as hungry as I am?” “Hungrier.” Lachlann laughed. Together, they turned and headed up the gentle slope towards his longhouse. A delicious aroma drifted through the rising mist, along with women’s laughter. Deidre and his mother were outside, in front of the house, roasting fish on skewers. “Lachlann! Faðir!” Deidre jumped up, smiling, and hurried to kiss his father’s cheek. “Gott kveld.” Good evening. His father’s harsh features softened slightly as he nodded. “Gott kveld, Deidre.” “Where did you get the fish?” Lachlann put an arm around her waist and kissed her – not on the cheek – before she could answer. “Where?” His mother Halla raised a brow. “From the stream, of course. Where else?” “We went fishing!” Deidre exchanged a smile with her. “It was so much fun!” His mother rose from where she knelt by the fire. “You must be hungry. Come. We have everything ready inside.” They talked and laughed as they sat around the table. Besides the fish, his mother and Deidre had prepared a porridge of barley and wild greens as well as roasted parsnips. Lachlann had missed his parents more than he’d realized. His father’s beard might be white now, but Jon Ivarsson, Friend of the Gaels, stood as tall and strong as ever. He had worked all day in the field alongside Lachlann, pulling flax. It was back-breaking work, but he hadn’t slowed for a moment. His mother, usually quiet and serious, talked animatedly as she and Deidre giggled over their fishing adventure. There were fine lines around her eyes now, as well as her mouth, and her white-blonde hair held a touch of silver. But there was still a twinkle in those eyes, a slight curve to her lips. She would always be beautiful. “We had a wonderful day, didn’t we, dóttir?” She began gathering the dishes. “Já. Móðir.” Deidre rose to take them from her. “It is always wonderful with you and Faðir.” His mother flushed with pleasure. Lachlann felt his chest expand as he watched them working together. They were both tall women, strongly built, dignified. But while his mother was pure Norse, his wife was a Gael through and through. Deidre’s head was bent towards Halla’s, her fiery red hair rippling down her back as she nodded in response to something his mother had said. She treated his parents as her own, with great love and respect. Lachlann felt as though his love and gratitude reached out to her, as arms reaching out to embrace her. She was an angel. When his parents were ready to leave, he and Deidre walked them out, their arms around each other’s waists. His mother turned suddenly. Her pale hair glowed in the moonlight, her gray eyes shining as she looked up at him. “We love you, Lachlann, and we love your sweet Deidre. We can see how much she loves you. She is a gift. Remember that. It is all we could hope for, all we could ask -- for you to be happy.” He swallowed against the sudden constriction in his throat. “Thank you, Móðir. I am happy.” “I know you are. Take care of each other.” For some reason, he couldn’t find his voice, couldn’t reply. He only looked at them, his mother and father, and they looked back. “We will,” Deidre answered. “I give you my word. I will take care of your son.” “You have our blessing,” his mother said. “Our blessings upon you both -- and your children – forever.” The four of them stood there for another moment, love pulsating between them, a force. Then his parents turned and continued up the path, disappearing in the evening mist. He and Deidre prepared for bed. As they burrowed beneath the plush, white comforter, he pulled her into his arms and kissed her. She nestled even closer, her body soft and warm against him. She was a gift, his precious gift. His angel. “Lachlann? Darlin’, what’s wrong?” Lachlann’s eyes flew open and he pulled back, startled. She was wiping his face with her fingertips. “You’re crying.” “Deidre,” he said hoarsely, urgently, “where are we?” Her brow puckered as her eyes searched his. “Where are we?” Her voice was gentle, little more than a whisper. “We’re home, in our bed.” She kissed his wet cheek. “Home on our farm, in North Carolina.” He stared up at the ceiling. His chest hurt. It had seemed so real. “Did you… did you have a bad dream?” she asked. “No. It was a good dream.” He shut his eyes as more tears escaped. “A blessing.” He felt her reach over him. “Tell me?” she asked as she pressed a soft tissue to his cheeks. He shook his head. “In the morning.” Deidre cuddled against him as they settled beneath the covers. He held her tightly. He needed her touch, her closeness. Moonlight shone through the shutters as her breathing slowed and became more rhythmic, and he finally began to relax. Just as Lachlann was about to drift off, she mumbled against his chest. “The fish tasted good, didn’t it?”  Tremors A Norse farmer crashes into this century from fourteenth-century Scotland. How did it happen? Why did he escape the plague when the rest of his family died? He should have died with them. Three years later, Lachlann is no closer to the truth. His body has healed. He has a job and a place to lay his head at night. He has even learned a little modern English. If he could just figure out how to go back, he might be able to save his family, save his son. But he still can’t read, is still tormented by throbbing headaches and nightmares. Maybe he died after all. Maybe he’s in hell. But would there be an angel in hell? Deidre became a medieval history professor because of a treasured family heirloom, the medieval drawing of a farmer that she loved since childhood. Too bad she couldn’t have married him instead of the lying, vicious cheat who had almost ruined her life. Almost. With a new life in a new city, she has moved forward. She doesn’t need anyone, especially a man. But she can’t seem to ignore her new neighbour, a gorgeous giant with a strange accent, haunted eyes, and a shocking resemblance to her medieval ploughman. How can she erase the tormented look in his eyes? If only he would confide in her. But is she prepared to do the same? To explain how she lost everything – her job, her family, her self-respect – because of her own, poor choices? And why does she have the feeling that she could lose it all again? Available at Amazon. My Giveaway: One free e-copy of Tremors will go to a randomly chosen someone special! The Draw: The contest opens Valentine’s day—from sunrise on 14th February in New Zealand (noon on February 13 U.S. EST) until midnight on 14th February in Hawaii (or 5 AM February 15 U.S. EST). When the contest ends, we’ll collect all comments on all 15 blogs in the hop. We’ll draw one at random, and then announce the winner on our blogs and contact him or her with a gift card to the value of US$75. Good luck! Did you miss Sophia Nye’s blog? Be sure to check it out. You’ll love the flash fiction and she’s offering a giveaway, too! Next up, Celeste Barclay! Celeste Barclay, Author – The official website of Celeste Barclay Thank you for visiting. Enjoy the rest of the hop!  A favorite occasion is nigh upon us! I love Valentine’s Day! But I’m not surprised that some people – many people – dislike or “hate” it. I have to give them their due. It’s not a religious holiday or even a patriotic one. It’s a hyped up, secular observation that was created by business owners. It encourages high expectations and, therefore, disappointments. The stance isn’t offensive, save perhaps to their significant others and, yes, to retailers. But what about St. Valentine? Let’s be honest. He isn’t the focus of this particular celebration. I, however, do see that a day dedicated to love could be counted as holy. All of our days should be so holy! I don’t see Valentine’s Day as a day to celebrate just eros, romantic love. I see it as a day to celebrate family and friends and everything that’s good in this world --just for the joy of it. Such a reminder should hurt none of us. But what if a person is alone? I realize that it can be much easier to say that “we’re never truly alone” than to feel it. My suggestion would be to go easy on yourself. Be nice. If you have a hankering for chocolates, buy yourself a heart-shaped box. Or flowers! These little extras are everywhere right now. Why not enjoy? And you have some good memories, don’t you? I like to remember people who’ve given me love in my life as well as the people I’ve had the privilege of loving. And what about nature, God’s gift to us, a gift of love? In these days of COVID, it’s especially good to love and appreciate your neighbor, your fellow humans. If you live in the city, observe the humanity you see on the sidewalks. It’s much less these days, isn’t it? Do you miss the crowds? Do you miss just being able to stand next to another human in line, at a bar, in your own home? I think, if you feel nostalgic over any of these situations, you have loved your fellow human beings. You might, on Valentine’s Day, consider an act of agape, of selfless love, of charity. Do a good deed. It could be something simple. Forgive someone. Forgive yourself. As for me, it's one more day to be grateful and another opportunity to love. My husband and I don’t usually exchange gifts. We might cook together, share a special meal, but usually we just seal a “Happy Valentine’s Day” greeting with a kiss and a smile. Not that I think giving gifts or tokens of love can't be wonderful. On the contrary. Celebrate in a way that makes you happy. In general, I thoroughly enjoy dousing loved ones with affection. Valentine's Day is the perfect excuse to indulge myself -- my gift to me! I love to rain candy and kisses on our little grandchildren. I send heart texts to many friends and loved ones regularly, so why not on Valentine's Day? And of course, I adore our children and our big family and love to remind them of the fact. But no one is saying that Valentine's Day is the ONLY day for love. Loving is not an annual event, and expressing love doesn’t have to be an extravagant, commercial affair. Far from it. There's not just one certain way to show love. But by all means, love. There can never, ever be too much. Wishing you a Happy Valentine's Day -- a happy Valentine's Weekend -- in advance. And much love always.  Welcome to Week One of Medieval Monday Spring 2021! This season's theme is "First Kiss". It's gong to be a very romantic Spring! This week, to introduce this season #MedMonSpring21, each author will begin with our own novels. I will be sharing snippets from Tremors of Lachlann and Deidre's first kiss. In the weeks to come, we will be hosting each other. I am excited and honored to be in the company of these wonderfully gifted storytellers. For more medieval romance, be sure to check out the Medieval Romance Lovers FB page. Without further ado, here's this season's first snippet for "First Kiss". Enjoy! Setup: Lachlann and Deidre have spent the day at the Texas Renaissance Festival. More a medieval fair than anything else, it unexpectedly forced traumatic memories upon Lachlann that he wasn’t prepared to deal with. Of course, he can’t explain that to Deidre -- yet. Darkness was falling by the time they made their way to the parking area. It comprised rows and rows of long, packed-dirt roads with parking on either side, separated by pine trees. A cool breeze rushed through the trees as they walked hand in hand towards her car. Lachlann gently squeezed Deidre’s fingers. “Thank you for today, Deidre.” She glanced up at him searchingly. “Are you sorry you came?” Was he? He looked down at their hands clasped so tightly together. “No,” he answered, surprised at the truth of it. “I’m not sorry about today.” “Do you…” She paused, then continued softly. “Do you want to talk about it?” Follow along next week on Jenna Jaxon’s blog: https://jennajaxon.wordpress.com/  In the infinite vastness of time – past, present, future, past – love would prevail. Available at Amazon. Free with Kindle Unlimited. A Norse farmer crashes into this century from fourteenth-century Scotland. How did it happen? Why did he escape the plague when the rest of his family died? He should have died with them. Three years later, Lachlann is no closer to the truth. His body has healed. He has a job and a place to lay his head at night. He has even learned a little modern English. If he could just figure out how to go back, he might be able to save his family, save his son. But he still can’t read, is still tormented by throbbing headaches and nightmares. Maybe he died after all. Maybe he’s in hell. But would there be an angel in hell? Deidre became a medieval history professor because of a treasured family heirloom, the medieval drawing of a farmer that she loved since childhood. Too bad she couldn’t have married him instead of the lying, vicious cheat who had almost ruined her life. Almost. With a new life in a new city, she has moved forward. She doesn’t need anyone, especially a man. But she can’t seem to ignore her new neighbor, a gorgeous giant with a strange accent, haunted eyes, and a shocking resemblance to her medieval ploughman. How can she erase the tormented look in his eyes? If only he would confide in her. But is she prepared to do the same? To explain how she lost everything – her job, her family, her self-respect – because of her own, poor choices? And why does she have the feeling that she could lose it all again?  “Danger. Threat. Mate.”
What a great addition to the Rabbit River Saga! Lone Wolf is intense from the very beginning, even before the main characters meet, and that intensity grows throughout the story. Jesse Wayne is a sexy sweetheart of a man. Throughout the series, his skills, loyalty, and honor, to say nothing of his sense of humor, have heightened every scene he’s in. He’s also achingly vulnerable, but that doesn’t stop him from doing whatever it takes to protect those he cares about. When the story opens, Jesse is in Mexico, on a mission to save his younger cousin Annabelle. He ends up saving Melissa, more than once. In fact, they save each other. Melissa is American, a down-to-earth, hard-working farmer – something I personally appreciate – who had eagerly seized an opportunity to improve a good friend’s family farm in Mexico. She’s totally unprepared for drug lords, human trafficking, kidnapping, and murder. It’s a good thing that Jesse is prepared. And he wants Melissa, needs her. From the first, he recognizes her as his mate. But unless they’re mated, he can’t tell her the truth about himself, about the People – and she has questions. How in the world will he convince her to accept him when she knows he’s holding back? These two have a lot to deal with. There is a sweet tension between them through much of the story. Melissa, especially, struggles with both fear and longing. Jesse, for his part, is battling the Sickness. Even though he knows that being with his true mate can save him, he doesn't want to force the bond. He loves Melissa. But time is running out. It’s not just the two of them, either. They have to save Annabelle, and they are dealing with very dangerous men. Lone Wolf is packed with action. The setting -- Elyce de Reefe’s descriptions of the area – makes everything easy to visualize. We, the readers, are there in the Chiapas. The slow-burn romance is well-paced and satisfying, culminating in an absolutely delicious Moonrise ceremony. The heartwarming homecoming is a generous bonus. This story made me smile and sigh. I look forward to spending more time with the Rabbit River pack and hope the next book comes out soon! |
Be like the flower, turn your face to the sun. – Gibran Khalil Gibran Archives
February 2021
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