To celebrate my upcoming release, Married for His Convenience, I'm giving away (5) copies of my first book, No Conventional Miss. To enter to win, just join my newsletter list! Five subscribers will be chosen at random on November 1, 2016. Amaryllis Gibson is an unlikely debutante. She favors fact over fashion, cares not for “proper” conversation and is haunted by ghostly visions which could land her in the madhouse! Marriage is definitely the last thing on Rilla’s mind… But when she’s caught in a compromising position with Viscount Wyburn, suddenly she finds herself betrothed! And worse, his powerful presence only increases her visions. By shedding light on the viscount’s past, can Rilla gain his trust and win him round to her more…unconventional traits? Enjoy an Excerpt From No Conventional Miss “They came earlier. I directed them to change horses and proceed to London as we’re leaving tomorrow.’ Paul sipped his wine. ‘We are? But we were supposed to stay a week.’ Rilla laid down the massive fork with a clatter. ‘I altered our plans.’ ‘Without talking to me?’ ‘I do not make decisions about my household in committee.’ ‘“In committee”? We are not in Parliament. I am your wife and you’re moving me around like so much baggage!’ Anger blossomed, although it was less about his autocracy and more about that tiny unacceptable frisson of relief. ‘I would not use that unflattering description,’ Paul said. ‘But, yes, I will make the travel arrangements for my household as I see fit.’ ‘Perhaps I don’t want to go to London.’ ‘I thought you’d be glad.’ ‘Because…’ Her stomach lurched. The incident sprang huge between them. ‘I thought Wyburn not salubrious to your health.’ His admission made her angrier. She balled her hands to fists. Her jaw tightened. ‘My health is robust. Besides, my parents discussed—’ She stopped. Her parents spoke about everything—village doings, their children, their hopes and dreams. But this was no such union. ‘We are not your parents.’ His voice, though soft, cut. ‘No,’ she said. They continued eating in an uncomfortable silence, broken only by the clinking of knives and forks. Irritation at him and at her own vulnerable relief tangled in Rilla’s mind. She wanted to leave this place. Yet his choice to do so perversely annoyed. Edison refilled their glasses, cleared the plates and served a sweet, fluffy concoction for their pudding. Then he left and silence again enclosed them. ‘I think I will retire and leave you to your port,’ Rilla said at last, rising from her chair. Paul stood, but made no effort to detain her. ‘Rest well. We leave after breakfast. I hope that is convenient.’ “She nodded. He offered her his arm and she placed her hand on his sleeve, conscious of taut muscles under the cloth and the smell his cologne. They moved towards the door, stopping at its threshold and she was suddenly aware of their solitude, of the warmth of his breath and the height and strength of him. He fastened his gaze on hers, placing his hand against her cheek. She tingled at this touch. Her anger dwindled, turning into something else. She bit her lip. His breath quickened. With a quick, almost violent movement, he possessed her mouth with heat and power and need. Stepping back abruptly, he allowed his hands to fall from her. ‘I apologise. That was not appropriate.’ ‘We’re married.’ ‘And therefore must restrain ourselves in the dining room.’ ‘Perhaps you are too ruled by restraint,’ she said softly. ‘Or you are too swayed by emotion.’ She flinched at the words. Was it always to be thus—this guarding of words and actions? This fear of sentiment? ‘Rather that than to be a statue,’ she retorted. As she left, she glanced back. Paul stood by the fireplace. He gripped the mantel with both hands, his head bowed low, a solitary figure. About Eleanor Webster Eleanor Webster has a passion for many things, the most ardent likely being shoes. But she’s also passionate about a story well told. With the help of some debutantes and viscounts and a twist of the unknown, Eleanor’s stories weave a tale of enchantment, hope, and most importantly, love. When not writing, you’ll find Eleanor dreaming of being a world traveler, reading, running, reading, hiking in the wilds of British Columbia, where she makes her home with her husband and two daughters, and – did we mention reading? Connect with Eleanor Website: https://eleanorwebsterauthor.com/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/ewebsterauthor Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Eleanor-Webster/1457032624594046?fref=ts/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/eleanorwebs0086/ Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/eleanorwebsterauthor More Giveaway InformationEnter to Win a Paperback Copy!
Eleanor is giving away 5 copies of No Conventional Miss to her lucky newsletter subscribers! Simply sign up for Eleanor’s e-News for your chance to win! Five lucky winners will be chosen at random from Eleanor’s newsletter subscribers on November 1, 2016. Sign up today: http://bit.ly/2cb0Rvx
First Three Pages of Seismic Crimes
Hey, everyone! Iâm going to keep this short since the excerpt is so long. Seismic Crimes is Book Two in the Disaster Crimes Series and my first novel. To celebrate, I thought Iâd entice you *wink* with the first three pages.
Enjoy! :)
EXCERPT:
Beth didnât die.
The anxious weatherman forecasting Hurricane Sabrinaâs arrival was wrong. She didnât even die at the big, slightly calloused hands of Donovan Goldwyn, as she had thought she would. Accused of killing his brother, Donovan had shown all the signs of being a murderer, but she later realized he wasnât a killer despite his suspicious mannerisms. Together, they had taken down one of the police officers responsible for killing Donovanâs brother, but one of the killers got away.
Now they were paddling her canoe through the floodwaters leftover from Hurricane Sabrina. Seeing the devastation all around broke Bethâs heart. A tree had fallen onto a house they passed, severing the house in half. She wished they could stop there to see if anyone needed help, but they had to get to the Orlando Police Department as soon as possible.
With great regret and a silent prayer the owners had evacuated, she looked away to see even more destruction. Some houses appeared untouched by Sabrinaâs wrath, but many hadnât been so lucky. Roofs had been ripped off; lawn decorations and furniture, that hadnât been moved inside, had been thrown everywhere, as if Sabrina had thrown a tantrum. Even a childrenâs swing set had been knocked over.
Beth looked away from the heartbreaking scene and forced her gaze to stay glued ahead as she paddled with their only oar. In front of her, Donovan used a shovel. As the canoe cut through the water, time blurred.
Her arms and neck were burning with fatigue by the time they reached the police department. Donovan pulled the canoe up the steps and held out his hand to her. Her knees shook as she stood and stepped onto solid ground. Standing in front of Donovan, her hand in his, she looked up at him. She couldnât imagine the turmoil he was going through inside, but she could see signs of it. His brows were drawn, his eyes streaked with red lightning bolts. She reached up with her free hand and laid it against his cheek.
He put his hand over hers and then pulled her in for a soft kiss. When he inched back, he whispered in her ear, âThis may sound crazy, but I love you.â
Beth gazed into his eyes, saw it was true. Her heart twirled in relief.
âI love you, too.â She glanced at the police department. âAre you ready for this?â
His jaw tensed. âDoesnât matter if I am or not, this needs to be done.â
Hand in hand, they walked inside. Five officers stood near the entrance, guzzling water from bottles and listening to the reports coming in on their radios. A woman manned the front desk. She answered the phone that never stopped ringing. Beth couldnât imagine how many calls were coming in on the emergency lines. Hundreds of people were probably calling for help, but the police wouldnât be able to respond to every call, not in their squad cars with this flood. During past hurricanes, the State Emergency Rescue Team went out in trucks and boats to rescue stranded people and they would have to again.
A few civilians, who had to ride out the storm in the department, milled about anxiously. The mingled scents of stale coffee and sweat teased Bethâs nostrils. Large ovals of perspiration spread beneath the officersâ arms and trickled down their backs. They looked as though they were about to dissolve into puddles. Although the generators were working, the A/C was weak, and the air inside the station was more humid than outside.
The officersâ heads swiveled to Donovan and Beth when they stepped through the doors. Their heat-exhausted faces registered surprise.
âHoly shit,â one of them said. âThatâs Donovan Goldwyn!â
In the next instant, the five officers rushed toward him, their guns drawn. Donovan put up his hands. Two officers grabbed his arms, wrenching them behind his back to restrain him. âDonovan Goldwyn, youâre under arrest for the murder of Ryan Goldwyn.â
Title: Seismic Crimes
Author: Chrys Fey
Series: Disaster Crimes Series (Book Two)
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Format: Digital and Print
Page Count: 282
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An Internal Affairs Investigator was murdered and his brother, Donovan Goldwyn, was framed. Now Donovan is desperate to prove his innocence. And the one person who can do that is the woman who saved him from a deadly hurricaneâBeth Kennedy. From the moment their fates intertwined, passion consumed him. He wants her in his arms. More, he wants her by his side in his darkest moments.
Beth Kennedy may not know everything about Donovan, but she canât deny what she feels for him. Itâs her love for him that pushes her to do whatever she has to do to help him get justice, including putting herself in a criminalâs crosshairs.
When a tip reveals the killer's location, they travel to California, but then an earthquake of catastrophic proportions separates them. As aftershocks roll the land, Beth and Donovan have to endure dangerous conditions while trying to find their way back to one another. Will they reunite and find the killer, or will they lose everything?
HURRICANE CRIMES 99¢ SALE!
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I'm very excited to offer this collection of short stories exclusively to my newsletter subscribersThis entertaining collection of short stories will take readers from the frozen Arctic, to Victorian England, and then present day New York City. In Murder by Bear, readers will meet Julia. Her close encounter with a polar bear in Churchill, Manitoba, makes her question her marriage. In Escape, set in British Colombia, Canada, Marilee tries to outrun her past. Victorian England sets the stage for The Encounter, in which a desperate Emily scratches a living on the streets of London. In First Impressions, Ann dreads her upcoming arranged marriage to the mean-spirited George. And lastly, present day New York City is the setting for The Wily Witness. In the NY office, newly hired FBI Agent Finn Callaghan struggles to establish who stole five hundred thousand dollars in diamonds. As a bonus you can read the first chapter of Marlow’s upcoming novel, Sun Seeker. If you are already signed up for my Newsletter and want a copy just email me at marlow@marlowkelly.com and I’d be happy to send you the eBook. If you recommend my newsletter to a new subscriber they will receive the eBook and I will mail you a thank you gift, which will include a piece of costume jewelry and a vanilla lip balm. Just make sure they enter your name and email when they sign up so that I can contact you. Gift items will vary depending on supplies
The Wade Family SagaListen carefully. Do you hear the sounds of a large family going about their daily tasks on a small eastern Missouri farm after the Civil War? They have no radio, television, or internet, yet they engage in happy conversation, laughing, calling to one another, and sometimes raising their voices in contention. This is Leann Frances Clark’s family. Leann is a young lady at the beginning of the Wades of Crawford County series which consists of three books and another, Heaven Must Wait, Part II, now on pre-order and coming online May 3. Leann desires to become engaged to Ralph Wade who lives on a farm ten miles away. Her father, John Clark, objects saying she’s too young, and Ralph cannot make a good living on his farm. Missouri is devastated after the war. Some of the bloodiest battles of the struggle were fought there. Earning a living on the land is difficult with much of the livestock stolen, food crops destroyed, and homes burned or destroyed. Outlaws roam the countryside reeking havoc. Ralph begins farming on acreage cut from his father’s holdings after the conflict, but has a difficult time making a living. However, he loves Leann and is determined to make her his wife. He will wait as long as John Clark insists. Leann wants to abide by her father’s wishes, but loves Ralph and determines to marry him with or without John’s approval. After retirement, I became interested in family genealogy and began researching my father’s line. I found the connection to John Sevier, my fourth great-grandfather and first governor of Tennessee. John Sevier, one of the original settlers in Tennessee, is also a Revolutionary War hero who fought in the Battle of Kings’ Mountain. His grandson immigrated to Missouri during the early 1800’s, settling in the Cuba, Missouri area. The immigrant’s son, my great-grandfather and Civil War veteran, is portrayed in the character of Ralph Wade, hero of the Wade family saga. However, another side of the veteran’s personality after the war—one of emotional conflict—is captured in Sonny Wade, Ralph’s brother. Both brothers are in love with Leann. Conflict between her love for Ralph and desire for Sonny arises throughout the series. Heaven Must Wait, Part II is a novella and extension of Heaven Must Wait, the first book in the series. The two books introduce the characters and setting of the Wade family saga. Another novel and last of the Leann stories, is planned for the near future. Blurb: Times are difficult in Missouri after the Civil War. Families struggle to keep their property from creditors and outlaws. The desire of Ralph Wade’s heart is to marry the girl of his dreams, beautiful Leann Clark, but many obstacles stand in their way. Ralph finds love is not enough to persuade Leann’s father to give his permission for their marriage. John Clark wishes more than love for his daughter. He wants her husband to provided a good living with a secure future. Ralph is much too hot-tempered and unreliable in John’s eyes. Leann desires the dashing Ralph and defies her father to be with him. She believes her love is strong enough to see them through the hard times. Through adverse circumstances, the young couple struggle to keep the fires of their love and faith burning. Excerpt: Leann felt she couldn't be happier. Her parents seemed to have forgiven Ralph for the altercation he had with Wesley Snipes over a saloon girl and were making friendly overtures toward him. She knew Pa expected both she and Ralph to act responsibly, and she determined not to break his trust. Her heart sang as they walked to the oak tree where Maude waited patiently. Ralph put his hat on, then untied his mare. “I love you, Leann. I'll see you next week.” “I love you. I can hardly wait 'til next Tuesday.” She looked toward the house, then stood on her tiptoes and lightly kissed his lips.” He quickly glanced toward the house, bent down and planted a firmer kiss on her mouth, then mounted Maude. Without saying anything more, he turned his horse toward home. She stood watching until he rode out of sight. With a heart bursting of love for Ralph, Leann made her way back to the house. About the Author: The desire to write historical fiction has long been a passion with Brenda B. Taylor. Since elementary school, she has written stories in her spare time. Brenda earned three degrees: a BSE from Henderson State University, Arkadelphia, Arkansas; a MEd from Sam Houston State University, Huntsville, Texas; and an EdD from Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas; then worked as a teacher and administrator in the Texas Public School system. Only after retirement could she fulfill the dream of publication. Brenda and her husband make their home in beautiful East Texas where they enjoy spending time with family and friends, traveling, and working in Bethabara Faith Ministry, Inc. She crafts stories about the extraordinary lives of ordinary people in her favorite place overlooking bird feeders, bird houses, and a variety of blooming trees and flowers. She sincerely thanks all who purchase and read her books. Her desire is that the message in each book will touch the heart of the reader as it did hers in the writing. Author Contact Information: Historical Heartbeats Amazon Author's Page Goodreads Tumblr Google + PROMISING, the riveting follow-up to AWAKENING by Rebel Miller Faced with diverging loyalties — between those she loves and her responsibility to the Realm — Kira has to make heartrending and strategic decisions that threaten to jeopardize her future. As her connection to Tai deepens and turmoil in the Realm builds, so does Gannon’s frustration at being unable to call Kira his own. Worlds at War ... A Heart in Conflict While the Realm stands defiant amidst rising unrest, Kira is thrust into a role that puts her at the forefront of her system’s governance and law, supporting a landmark position. Following a devastating turn of events, she turns to Tai for a shoulder to lean on after making a painful choice to ensure Gannon fulfils the role he was meant for. As she becomes a reluctant - yet inspiring - voice for her caste, Kira learns about one of the Realm’s most well-kept secrets and how far leadership will go to prevent it from being revealed. What she doesn’t know is how much the decisions of her past have the power to bring enemies into her path, threatening to destroy everyone she holds close to her heart. This novel is for mature audiences (18+) and includes committed relationships with multiple partners. Excerpt “How is it that with all our system’s technology I can’t make love to you from thousands of light years away?” I snorted, but my lips tilted up at the corners nevertheless. “I’m sure the Protectorate has some sort of virtual reality device that could be refashioned just for that purpose,” I offered, rearranging the wool blanket on my lap. I was curled up in bed, facing my monitor and resting against a pile of pillows. It had become a familiar position over the last few weeks, one from which I would relay the day’s activities during my nightly call with Gannon. Well, it was a nightly call for me. The sun had already risen where Gannon lived, on Dignitas One. Suddenly, Gannon seemed to be deep in concentration. “No, on second thought, there’s no technology that could ever measure up to the real thing.” He grinned. I smiled, heat rising to my cheeks. “There’s the smile I was looking for,” Gannon said, leaning closer to his monitor, and so closer to me. He was sitting in his office. He had been holding our calls from there more frequently over the last month. From what I could see, his office was a large, well-lit space. A wall of floor-to-ceiling glass ran its expanse directly behind him. Through it, I could see citizens of every caste striding by in obvious haste to get things done, more than likely at Gannon’s bidding. During these nighttime conversations with Gannon, and within the intimate surroundings of my bedroom, it was easy to forget who he was and his status. As chancellor, he surely had, every day, a checklist as long as my arm, filled with tasks. I frowned as I noted the time. “I should let you go,” I said, sitting up. “Why?” I glanced pointedly behind him, fiddling with the thin strap of my top. “Your office looks incredibly busy.” He blinked then swiveled in his chair to look at the steady stream of people behind him. “Oh, my support always look like that,” he said, mischief glittering in his clear blue eyes as he turned back to me. “They think it’ll prevent me asking them to do anything else.” He winked, and I laughed, loving his cheekiness. About Rebel Miller Rebel Miller is an author who overindulges in Pinot Grigio, caramel popcorn and an eclectic mix of movies, music and angst-filled romance novels. Rebel earned a graduate degree in Communications and Culture from Ryerson University and an undergraduate degree from the University of the West Indies. Rebel lives in the outskirts of Toronto, Canada with her husband and two sons. Connect with Rebel Website: http://rebelmillerbooks.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rebel.miller/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/rebelmillerboox Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RebelMillerBoox Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/14128107.Rebel_Miller Giveaway
Enter to win an eBook version of Promising: Book Two of Kira’s Story, a Rebel Miller Books tote and magnet, and a signed poster. Mishaps and mayhem reign when old flames collide.Hard-working Kate Clark opens a thriving coffee shop that quickly becomes the local hang-out for students and the community. Her one wish is to eventually buy out her sister’s share of the old Florida home they inherited. However, Violet is in desperate need of cash and has other plans. Tappe Vanderberg, Kate’s childhood friend and high school sweetheart, has sold his lucrative internet security business to return to Little Heron Shores and fulfill his dreams of owning a marina. Now the handsome Dutch-born businessman is making waves with single women all over town—including loony, post mistress Eva May Poole who’s in search of husband number three. But it’s Kate Clark who’s wreaking havoc with Tappe’s heart, not Eva May. Can he find a way to shake the dingbat post mistress and convince Kate to give him a second chance and the sweet kiss he remembers from an earlier time? Excerpt: Tappe picked up the grimy jar of candy hearts. “No way! I can’t believe Fay saved your candy hearts.” He twisted off the lid and shook one into his hand. “Neither can I. Don’t you dare put that into your mouth. Those candies are over a decade old!” “So? Sugar doesn’t spoil.” “Okay, go ahead. Eat it. Poison yourself. Why should I care?” Kate said drily. “Just don’t call me in the middle of the night.” With a shake of her head, she turned back to the stove, took out a cold plate from the freezer, and plopped a teaspoon of the liquid from the bubbling pot on it, then ran a finger through the mixture to see if the jam stayed parted and stable, refusing to run together. She removed the pot from the stove, set it on the table, and started filling the pint and half-pint jars. “You don’t mean that.” He dropped the candy back into the jar, and came up behind her. He started nuzzling her on the side of her neck. “Do you realize I’m working with hot liquids?” She tried to be stern as she squirmed away still holding the hot pot. She could never quite pull off reprimanding Tappe, especially when he was on a roll. And he was on a roll. “Not as hot as you are. Want to make out?” Kate looked at him askance. “Now? Here? Are you sane?” “Yes, I’m fairly lucid. But if your answer is a no to making out, then can I lick the pot instead?” “If you promise to quit licking my neck.” About the Author: Judy Ann Davis began her career in writing as acopy and continuity writer for radio and television in Scranton, PA. She holds a degree in Journalism and Communications and has written for industry and education throughout her career. Over a dozen of her short stories have appeared in various literary and small magazines, and anthologies, and have received numerous awards. When Judy Ann is not behind a computer, you canfind her looking for anything humorous to make her laugh or swinging a golf club where the chuckles are few. She is a member of Pennwriters, Inc. and Romance Writers of America, and lives with her husband in Central PA. Judy's Contact Information:
Website: http://www.judyanndavis.com Blog: http://www.judyanndavis.blogspot.com Facebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/JudyAnnDavisAuthor/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/JudyAnnDavis4 Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4353662 The Wild Rose Press: http://www.wildrosepublishing.com Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/Judy-Ann-Davis/e/B006GXN502/ Newsletter FB Page: https://www.facebook.com/KeepingYouInSuspense The Hunter's Moon is available at Amazon and Barnes & Noble, and from other online booksellers. The Hunter's Moon is currently 50% off through The Wild Rose Press Thanks for having me on your blog to share about my new release. Although The Hunter's Moon (Book 1, Secret Warrior Series) is my first venture into the young adult genre, I'm an award-winning, multi-published author in historical, paranormal, and time travel romance. I was inspired to create this new series partly by my teenage nieces and younger daughter. We've watched a lot of YA movies and TV programs together and had book discussions, during which they urged me to take the plunge. I pondered the concept behind Secret Warrior for years as it gradually took shape in my mind. My love of history, fantasy, and fascination with the mountain people and Native Americans is at the heart of the series. Living in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia surrounded by mountains veiled in mist and mystery lends itself well to creating the characters and setting for YA fantasy romance, The Hunter's Moon, and the stories that will follow. Some of the characters and creatures are based on lore I've learned. Others appeared to me, as characters have a way of doing. A great deal of research and intuition went into writing The Hunter's Moon. Next in the series is Curse of the Moon (release date TBD). I purposefully kept these stories to novella length so they would come out faster, which means eBook format only. The Secret Warrior series is published by The Wild Rose Press. Story Description: Seventeen year old Morgan Daniel has been in the witness protection program most of her life. But The Panteras have caught up with her and her younger brother. Her car is totaled, she's hurt, and the street gang is closing in when wolves with glowing eyes appear out of nowhere and chase away the killers. Then a very cute guy who handles a bow like Robin Hood emerges from the woods and takes them to safety at his fortress-like home. And that's just the first sign that Morgan and her brother have entered a hidden world filled with secrets. Excerpt: “Should we stay, or go while the smoke lasts?” The cloth muffled her voice. “You can hardly walk.” She couldn’t argue that point. Neither could they wait to be found. “The Panteras won’t give up until we’re dead.” “Maybe they think we are,” he argued under his breath. “Maybe.” She suspected Mateo would demand a body, even a charred one. Make that two. She and Jimmy didn’t have much choice, though, other than to crouch in dread while the fire crackled. “Next birthday, I want an AK-47.” He nudged her. “Look.” She fixed her blurry gaze on what appeared to be a black wolf emerging from the trees. The creature was larger than she’d thought wolves were, and she’d understood none remained in these mountains. They were all farther north or west. Somewhere else. Apparently, she was misinformed. Judging by its size, she guessed this was a male. He stopped before their hideout. Eyes the color of red coals surveyed them before he turned and darted down the trail she’d spotted. “Holy cow, Batboy. Did you see that?” she whispered. Jimmy didn’t reply. He prodded her again. She stared at the big brown and gray wolf that took the black one’s place. Where on earth had he come from? The beast turned its furry head at her and Jimmy. His eyes shone with a luminous light, like fireflies... A bit about Beth: Married to my high school sweetheart, I live on a farm in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia surrounded by my human family and furbabies. An avid gardener, my love of herbs and heirloom plants figures into my work. The rich history of Virginia, the Native Americans, and the people who journeyed here from far beyond her borders are at the heart of my inspiration. I’m especially drawn to colonial America and the drama of the American Revolution. In addition to young adult fantasy romance, I also write historical, time travel, and paranormal romance, plus nonfiction. For more on me, please visit my blog,
One Writer's Way: https://bethtrissel.wordpress.com Like me on Facebook: Author Beth Trissel Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BethTrissel Visit my Amazon Author Page where all my books reside: Amazon Author Page HOME FIRES (e-version) is on sale for .99 cents at all major e-retailers between December 4 and 17, 2015.
Available at:
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My novella, HOME FIRES, tells the story of Anne Wakefield, a young British woman who travels to Canada after World War Two to marry her fiancé. Though Anne and her story are fictional, the phenomena of War Brides is not. Some 48,000 women married Canadian servicemen during the war. The majority of war brides were British, but some came from France, Belgium, Norway, Sweden, Italy, the Netherlands, and Germany. Between 1942 and 1947, these women, along with their 22,000 children, traveled to Canada to begin their new lives.
Some were married after quick, whirlwind romances. Others had the luxury of getting to know each other before they tied the knot. But for all these couples, marriage was the only answer. The customs of the day demanded that if they wanted to sleep together, they had to be married. And so they did. The times were perilous with no guarantee of a tomorrow. A sense of urgency compelled them to grab all the happiness they could. In my story, Anne is not married before she comes to Canada because a wedding couldn’t be arranged before her fiancé was shipped home. Though the majority of war brides were married in England, some were not, and married in Canada instead. These women would have had to pay for their own passage on the war bride ships. The war brides traveled on special ships, usually former luxury liners like the Queen Mary that had been converted to carrying troops during the war. Depending on the weather during the crossing, and the young woman’s constitution, she either had a wonderful adventure or a miserable, seasick trip. Some made new friends with the other war brides and enjoyed the abundance and quality of the food onboard. Almost every account I read talked about how thrilled they were to be able to eat foods that had been scarce in Britain since the beginning of the war. Simple things like white bread, butter, fruit and eggs were mentioned. Once they arrived in Halifax, the war brides were directed to special trains that took them to their new homes. For brides whose destination was one of the Maritime Provinces, the train ride was short. But for those who were on their way to the Prairies or the west coast, the train ride took several days. In my story, Anne is destined for Saskatchewan on the Canadian prairies, so her train ride would have been at least five days. Finally, the war bride would reach her final destination. Her husband or her husband’s family would be there to greet her. In most cases, it was a happy reunion. But not always. I read stories of husbands who told their British wives to go home because they didn’t want them anymore. A friend of mine in her eighties told me of a war bride she knew who was rejected by her husband when she arrived. This is Anne’s experience. By the time she arrives, her fiancé has married someone else. Despite the often fast courtships and hastily arranged weddings between people from different backgrounds and cultures, the majority of these marriages endured. These marriages and the families that were created helped to build post-war Canada, and are a testament to the strength of character of the war brides. HOME FIRES is on sale for .99 cents until December 17th! More About Home Fires
Anne Wakefield travels halfway around the world for love. But when she arrives in Canada from England at the end of World War Two, she discovers the handsome Canadian pilot she’d fallen in love with has married someone else. Heartbroken, she prepares to return to London, though she has nothing left there to return to. Her former fiancé’s mother makes a suggestion: marriage to her other son.
Badly wounded and scarred during the war, Erik Gustafson thinks he’s a poor substitute for his brother. Although he loves Anne almost from the first time he sees her, he cannot believe she would ever be able to love him as he is – especially as he might be after another operation on his bad leg. Anne sees the beauty of his heart. The cold prairie winter may test her courage, but can she prove to Erik that her love for him is real? Excerpt: She whirled around to glare at him, her eyes blazing. “No! I’m not a child! I don’t have to be mollycoddled and babysat. I spent six years in a war zone, hiding in bomb shelters, never having enough to eat. I worked in a hospital treating blitz victims with wounds so horrendous grown men would gag to look at them. I faced those horrors every day. Sometimes things were so bad I thought I couldn’t go on. But I did. Because I had to. And I’ll face things here, too. So don’t tell me to give up, because I won’t!” Erik pushed himself out of his chair to face her, awed by her spirit and courage. She lifted her chin as if defying him to contradict her, her hands clenched at her sides. Her dark hair curled in wild abandon as it dried, framing her pale oval face like a halo. Her beauty and ferocity were magnificent. “I think you’re the strongest woman I know.” Her eyes widened in surprise, her hands unclenching. He caught the quiver of her chin as she fought to hold back tears. “I made such a mess of things,” she whispered. “I’m sorry for all the fuss I caused everyone.” Erik took a step toward her. “It’s not your fault. I shouldn’t have let you go alone in the dark.” “You didn’t know I would stupidly walk out onto thin ice.” She shook her head. “I wanted to help. I wanted to be useful. I can’t stand feeling so bloody useless.” “You’re not useless. You’re an amazing woman. Anders is a fool for letting you go.” She stared at him, her eyes filling with tears. “Thank you.” He opened his arms and she stepped into them, wrapping her arms around his waist, clinging to him. He held her tightly, inhaling the sweet, clean scent of her, never wanting to let her go. “Don’t cry. Everything’s all right now.” “I know I’m being stupid. Tears don’t solve anything,” she said against his chest. “But I was so cold, and so scared. I thought I was going to die.” He tightened his hold and kissed her hair. “Don’t think about it anymore. You’re safe now.” He heard her sigh, felt her relax against him. “Yes. I’m safe.” She lifted her head to look into his face, her dark eyes shiny with tears, her lips slightly parted, and Erik stared at her mouth, wanting desperately to kiss her, to capture her sweetness. He slowly lowered his mouth to hers. To his surprise, she didn’t run off or turn away in revulsion. He was so close her breath mingled with his, her breathing shallow and erratic. His heart slammed against his chest, his body thrumming with need. For the first time in over three years, he felt alive.
About Jana
Jana Richards has tried her hand at many writing projects over the years, from magazine articles and short stories to full-length paranormal suspense and romantic comedy. She loves to create characters with a sense of humor, but also a serious side. She believes there’s nothing more interesting then peeling back the layers of a character to see what makes them tick. When not writing up a storm, working at her day job as an Office Administrator, or dealing with ever present mountains of laundry, Jana can be found on the local golf course pursuing her newest hobby. Jana lives in Western Canada with her husband Warren, and a highly spoiled Pug/Terrier cross named Lou. You can reach her through her website at http://www.janarichards.com Jana's Social Links: FLAWLESS (e-version) is on sale for .99 cents at all major e-retailers between December 4 and 17, 2015.
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Researching the World War Two Story
I’ve always had a fascination for the stories of World War Two. The war is full of amazing tales of bravery and daring, of sadness and pain, and of love found and lost. I like to combine all of these elements in my stories. When writing about any era of history, it’s important to get the details right. World War Two history is massive; it’s almost impossible to know everything. But it is possible to focus on one piece of that history and become something of an expert on it. FLAWLESS is set in occupied France in 1942. Le Coeur Bleu, a famous and valuable blue diamond, has been stolen by the Nazis. They plan to trade the diamond for weapons that could crush the Allies. Jewel thief Hunter Smith is recruited to steal back the diamond with the help of Madeleine, a beautiful French Resistance fighter. When I began writing Flawless, I didn’t know much about the French Resistance. I turned to my favorite sources for information; the library and the Internet. One book I read, called “Just Raoul: Adventures in the French Resistance”, told the story of the war from the perspective of a French Resistance fighter. I learned what members of the Resistance accomplished and the dangers they faced. From the Internet, I learned about the Special Operations Executive or SOE, a branch of the British government that trained spies and sent operatives into occupied European countries to learn of the enemies’ movements and to disrupt their lines of communications and transportation. My research suggested elements of the plot. For instance, I discovered that the SOE brought spies in and out of France in small planes called Lysanders that were able to land and take off on short runways, most often in fields or pastures. Resistance members would use torches to light the make-shift runways and guide the Lysander to a safe landing. As soon as the plane was unloaded of its cargo of firearms, radios and other necessary supplies, it quickly took off. It might have had the ability to fly under the radar, but German patrols could still hear it. The Resistance fighters immediately doused the flames of the torches and dispersed. I used this information to write the scene in which Hunter arrives in France, as well as the scene of his departure. I researched a myriad of other details on the Internet; what does a French chateau look like, how do you pick a lock, were flashlights available in the 1940s? (They were.) A Japanese puzzle box plays a crucial role in the story, and I had to research the intricate art of opening one. I did some fun research on diamonds to come up with the “curse” that Le Coeur Bleu is purported to inflict on its owners. Research is a fascinating part of writing. It lends authenticity to a story, and helps with plotting. For a historical novel, research is an absolute essential. FLAWLESS is on sale for .99 cents until December 17th! More About Flawless
France, 1942. The world is at war. The Nazis have stolen the infamous blue diamond, Le Coeur Bleu, intending to barter it for weapons that will destroy the Allies. Jewel thief Hunter Smith is given a choice; help the French Resistance steal back the diamond and avenge the death of his best friend, or stay locked up in an English prison. He chooses revenge.
Resistance fighter Madeleine Bertrand’s husband died when he was betrayed by Hunter Smith. How can she now pretend to be married to the arrogant American? How can she betray Jean Philippe’s memory by her passionate response to Hunter’s kisses? Neither is prepared for the maelstrom of attraction that erupts between them. To survive they must uncover the mysteries of the past and conquer the dangers of the present. But first Madeleine must decide if her loyalties lie with her dead husband and the Resistance or with the greatest love of her life. Excerpt: Hunter’s eyes snapped open, his blood pounding in his ears. “What do you know about The Blue Heart?” “Only that it is one of the most famous and rare diamonds in the world, over 30 carats, and said to be flawless.” Hunter rose from his cot and paced his small cell, heart racing. “Ah, finally something you don’t know. Le Coeur Bleu has a small flaw, an inclusion visible only with a jeweler’s loupe.” Campbell inclined his head. “My mistake. I bow to your superior knowledge of the stone.” He met Campbell’s calm stare. He doubted this man ever made mistakes. “What else do you know about the diamond?” “I know the diamond is reputed to have magical powers. Some even say it is cursed.” “You don’t really believe in magical powers, do you?” Hunter scoffed. Campbell lifted one shoulder in a delicate shrug. “Perhaps, perhaps not. Do you think your friend Jean Philippe Bertrand believed in magic?” All the air rushed out of Hunter’s lungs and he struggled to breathe. “What do you know about Jean Philippe?” “That he came into possession of Le Coeur Bleu and was murdered for it by the Nazis.” Hunter dropped heavily onto his cot, shock and pain turning his knees to water. Snippets of the telegram he’d received from his best friend a few weeks before his arrest flashed in his head. Need to buy Heartstone times two from Jewish refugee. Desperate. Send cash. Hunter had immediately wired JP the money to buy the Heartstone, the name by which Le Coeur Bleu was sometimes known. He never heard from Jean Philippe again. In all the months of his captivity he’d clung to the hope that Jean Philippe was safe. But now that hope was dashed. “Dead? You’re sure?” “Yes. The SOE is very well connected in France. I can assure you, your friend was killed for Le Coeur Bleu.” Guilt flowed through Hunter’s veins like a poison. If he hadn’t sent the money, JP wouldn’t have had the diamond and the Nazis would have had no reason to kill him. Campbell stepped closer to Hunter’s cot, determination glittering in his eyes. “I’m giving you the opportunity to avenge your friend’s death. Will you take it, Mr. Smith?” “How is stealing The Blue Heart going to avenge Jean Philippe’s death? It’s just a stone, Mr. Campbell. Very pretty, very valuable, but just a rock. Is stealing it going to bring him back?” “No, it won’t,” Campbell conceded, “but it will hurt the Nazis immensely. I can assure you that taking Le Coeur Bleu from them will reduce their capacity to fight, Mr. Smith. It may even shorten the war and provide the turning point we’re looking for. Is this not what your friend would have wanted?” As Hunter stared into Campbell’s round face, he remembered the last stinging conversation he’d had with his friend. “If you used your God-given talents for good instead of squandering them on party tricks, perhaps you’d be a lot happier. It’s time to grow up, Hunter. For once in your life, be a man.” Perhaps the time had finally come. “How soon can I get out of here?” Campbell smiled in satisfaction. “Follow me.”
About Jana Richards:
Jana Richards has tried her hand at many writing projects over the years, from magazine articles and short stories to full-length paranormal suspense and romantic comedy. She loves to create characters with a sense of humor, but also a serious side. She believes there’s nothing more interesting then peeling back the layers of a character to see what makes them tick. When not writing up a storm, working at her day job as an Office Administrator, or dealing with ever present mountains of laundry, Jana can be found on the local golf course pursuing her newest hobby. Jana lives in Western Canada with her husband Warren, and a highly spoiled Pug/Terrier cross named Lou. You can reach her through her website at http://www.janarichards.com Jana's social links I am a debut Regency era author. Regency romances are one of my all-time favorite eras; grand ballrooms, dinner parties while sitting next to a grand duke or war hero just returned from fighting against Napoleon and French. Hey a girl can dream, can’t she? When I’m not reading or writing, I am enjoying the joyful moments with my growing family, the ballet and romantic movies. One of my favorite parts of writing is the research and letting my imagination to run away with me as I go into another place and time while creating romantic stories. I am a big fan of Pinterest and love creating boards for my romances, visit me there to see what my characters look like and the background for my stories. My debut release, The Rake’s Redemption, takes a slightly different spin on the left at the alter storyline. I always enjoyed reading second chance on romance books and I soon thought I could do this. The hard part was trying to come up with a plot that wasn’t used before. I hope you like Caroline and Pierce as they found the love they one shared wasn’t lost forever. The Rake’s Redemption is a story of love interrupted by a young man’s call to duty… Pierce, a younger son, realizes that the life of a military officer is far beneath what the woman he loves deserves. Despite her reassurances, he makes a decision to leave her behind, which will haunt him even after he returns from the war. Caroline, socially ruined by a failed elopement, yearns for a husband and children of her own. Finally deciding to accept the attentions of eligible bachelors, her world is turned upside down once again when Pierce returns from fighting Napoleon on the peninsula. When Pierce returns to his childhood home, he and Caroline soon realize they share a sizzling physical attraction. But will the lingering pain of rejection she carries, and his dark memories of battle stand in the way of love? Coming in December 2015 – An Earl’s Christmas Magic – matchmaking gone astray! Where to find Diane: Facebook Author Page – Diane Dario Goodreads – Diane Dario Amazon Author Page – Diane Dario Pinterest – Diane Dario |
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