historical romance

Book Review & Giveaway: They Called Him Marvin by Roger Stark

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They Called Him Marvin by Roger Stark

Publisher: Silver Star (September 21, 2021
Category: Historical Romance, WW2, Family Saga, Based on a True Story
ISBN: 978-0578855288
320 pages

They Called Him Marvin

They were just kids, barely not teenagers, madly in love and wanting to be a family, but WW2 and a B29 got in their way.

Three hundred ten days before Pearl Harbor, buck private Dean Sherman innocently went to church with a new friend in Salt Lake City. From that moment, the unsuspecting soldier travelled a remarkable, heroic path, falling in love, graduating from demanding training to become a B29 pilot, conceiving a son and entering the China, Burma and India theater of the WW2.

He chronicled his story with letters home to his bride Connie that he met on that fateful Sunday, blind to the fact that fifteen hundred seventy five days after their meeting, a Japanese swordsman would end his life.

His crew, a gaggle of Corporals that dubbed themselves the Corporealizes, four officers and a tech Sargent, adventured their way across the globe. Flying the “Aluminum Trail” also called the Hump through the Himalayas, site of the most dangerous flying in the world. Landing in China to refuel and then fly on to places like Manchuria, Rangoon or even the most southern parts of Japan to drop 500 pounders.

Each mission had its challenges, minus fifty degree weather in Mukden, or Japanese fighters firing away at them, a close encounter of the wrong kind, nearly missing a collision with another B29 while flying in clouds, seeing friends downed and lost because of “mechanicals,” the constant threat of running out of fuel and their greatest fear, engine fire.

Transferred to the Mariana Islands, he and his crew were shot down over Nagoya, Japan as part of Mission 174, captured and declared war criminals.

Connie’s letters reveal life for a brand new mother whose husband is declared MIA. The agony for both of them, he in a Japanese prison, declared a war criminal, and she just not knowing why his letters stopped coming.

Amazon
Barnes&Noble
IndieBound

Guest Review by Sal

“These American boys were rowdy, reckless, full of wonder and curiosity. They sought adventure with bravado, patriotism, and testosterone. They were volunteers to a man. They came to the army in the years before World War II. They didn’t need to wait. Some would become men of oversized destiny, charter members of the “Greatest Generation.”

Over the course of World War II, countless soldiers were taken as prisoners of war by the axis powers and were never able to return home to their families. This is the story of one such soldier, Lt. Dean Sherman– a pilot, a father and a husband.

Sherman married the love of his life Constance ‘Connie’ Baldwin when the two were just teenagers, only a small handful of months before the bombing of Pearl Harbor. What, at any other time in history, might have been a simple love story between two young people was complicated by the war.

Soon after the two were married, and Connie realized that she was pregnant, Dean was sent overseas to pilot a B-29 aircraft in and around China and Japan. The two communicated through letters during that time, many of which are reprinted in the book.

Reading the simple, loving letters between this couple provides a very human perspective on a terrible war and gives a look into the lives of the normal men and woman living in this unprecedented time. Readers will appreciate the tender nature of the love between Dean and Connie, as well as the factual information about the war and the perspective of the Japanese soldiers of that time.

Roger Stark’s writing is not only captivating but imparts a lot of research without bogging down the narrative. ‘They Called Him Marvin,’ is a genre-defying, heartfelt story of family and love in the theater of war.

About the Author

Roger Stark, by his own admission, is a reluctant writer. But there are stories that demand to be told. When we hear them, we must pick up our pen, lest we forget and the stories be lost. Six years ago, in a quiet conversation with his friend, Marvin, he learned the tragic story of his father, a WW2 B-29 Airplane Commander, shot down over Nagoya, Japan, just months before the end of the war.

The telling of the story that evening by this half orphan was so moving and full of emotion, it compelled Roger to ask if he could write the story. The result being “They Called Him Marvin.”

Roger Stark’s life has been profoundly touched in so many ways by being part of documenting this sacred story. He prays that we never forget, as a people, the depth of sacrifice that was made by ordinary people like Marvin and his father and mother on our behalf.

Website: https://theycalledhimmarvin.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TCHMarvin

Giveaway

This giveaway is for 3 print copies, one for each of 3 winners. This giveaway is open to the U.S. only and ends on June 24, 2022, midnight, pacific time.  Entries accepted via Rafflecopter only.

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Teddy Rose Book Reviews Plus April 25 Kickoff & Interview

Am Goodreads April 27 Review

Lynelle Inspire to Read April 29 Review & Excerpt

Suzie M. My Tangled Skeins Book Reviews May 3 Review & Excerpt

Raymond Amazon Goodreads May 4 Review

Carole Amazon May 4 Review

Sal Bound 4 Escape May 5 Guest Review

Sage N. Goodreads May 6 Review

Lu Ann Rockin’ Book Reviews May 10 Review &Guest Post

Laura Lee Celticlady’s Reviews May 13 Guest Review & Guest Post

Karen Amazon May 16 Review

Gud Reader Goodreads May 17 Review

Mike. Goodreads May 18 Review

Jas International Book Promotion May 19 Review

Linda Lu Goodreads May 23 Review

Dee Amazon May 26 Review

Nora S. Storeybook Reviews June 1 Guest Review & Excerpt

Liam Goodreads June 3 Review

Amy Locks, Hooks and Books June 9 Re-Post Review & Excerpt

Smitty Goodreads June 10 Review

Teddy Rose Book Reviews Plus June 13 Review

Bee Book Pleasures June 14 Review & Interview

Gracie Goodreads June 15 Review

Bookgirl Goodreads June 16 Review

Betty Goodreads June 21 Review

DTChantel Amazon June 22 Review

Amber M. Amazon June 23 Review

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Book Review: Enemies United by Barbara Anne Machin

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Enemies United

William of Normandy set sail to arrive in England in October 1066 to take the throne and force his right above the Saxon King Harold. Successful in the battle and taking the crown his army of well-trained knights were rewarded with lands.

Mostly of lands that no longer had a Thegn, this is a story of how an elderly ailing Thegn where his lands were gifted to one of William’s most loyal knights Gilbert Bayeux, the struggle and lengths afterwards to protect his grandchild and how the two enemies united to bring peace to Alder-Sea and its villagers along with all of England. The child was disguised as a serf, the knight was intrigued and drawn to the boy’s beautiful lavender blue eyes.

My Review

When William of Normandy takes over King Harold’s throne, he gives land to his most loyal knights, and Gilbert is gifted Alder-Sea. Unlike some of the other knights, he wants to keep peace with the current thegn and his subjects. He quickly wins over the people but Lord George, the thegn, is elderly and dying and he takes measures to protect his grandchild, his only surviving relative.

I’ve always enjoyed historical fiction and Enemies United didn’t disappoint. It was well researched, and the characters were well-developed. As a teenager, Guy has gone through a lot but feels lucky to still have a loving and caring grandfather. Gilbert is refreshing as a conqueror who is considerate and wants to work things out rather than just take things over.

Enemies United is a book of history and romance and is difficult to put down.

Excerpt

  “This way, we will have carried out your grandfather’s wishes. You heard your Lord Gilbert. He intends to place you in some kind of work after they bury George,’ he said sternly, hoping that Guy would understand why he was insisting on the time being now. Godfrey knew if he left it until after the burial that Gilbert would place Guy in some sort of meaningful employment and that he would soon find out their secret, and had he not knelt along with George and Guy and sworn allegiance at Gilbert’s feet? No, he would sooner spirit Guy away than be looked on as a traitor. Godfrey was sure that his new master was a good man. He was torn by his pledge to George and although he liked and respected Gilbert, his loyalty was stronger to George.

The soldiers arrived and carried George to the chapel. Guy and Godfrey followed them to watch that George was laid in state in a caring manner, Guy being careful to whisper, ‘Sleep well, master.’ Godfrey stood and saluted him with his sword. One of the soldiers reported to Gilbert that there had been a suspicion of tears in Godfrey’s eyes as he left the chapel and that the boy Guy was struggling with the Lord George’s death. Strange for a boy so young.”

About the Author

Barbara Anne Machin was born in 1940 and is the youngest of eight children. She is married and has one son, and recently celebrated her diamond wedding anniversary. She has always been interested in writing but has never attempted to publish before. A friend and her husband encouraged Barbara to send her trilogy of stories to a publisher. She writes more for a hobby and has worked all her life and still works part-time.  She has held many managerial positions in large companies and does not like to be idle.

This is Barbara’s sixth book.  She has written “A Beloved Cousin” (2019), “Shadow of Guilt” (2020), “Don’t Look Back” (2020), “The Crime that Never Was” (2020) and “Nowhere to Hide” (2020).

“Enemies United” is available to purchase in hardback from Amazon UK at:

This novel is also available to purchase in paperback at:

The book can also be downloaded as an e-book from:

Press/Media Contact Details:

Darin Jewell (Barbara Machin’s literary agent)
Tel. 020 8292 5163
E-mail: darin@theinspiragroup.com

New Releases

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Fantastic Happy Tales

This is a charming new collection of children’s stories that are educational and entertaining, with fun illustrations. The animals in this series of short stories – from Freddie Fox to Tommy Toad – play a key role in teaching children about their environment and other important life lessons.

Excerpt from the book:

“The hive was busy.  Spring flowers in full bloom and it was time to find the best of the bunch.  “‘Bee’ back before nightfall,” Beatrice called out to her entourage of eager pollen collectors.

“Will do,” they buzzed, hoping to find the best pollen for themselves.

It was midday in the garden of Terry Tortoise and Massie the field mouse, when the sound of buzzing caught their ears.  “Careful,” Massie whispered, not wishing to interrupt their buzz-ness. “They are making honey,” she explained to Terry her latest friend and pupil.

“I see no honey,” he answered, having previously peaked into a hive, “It’s sticky and runny.”

“It’s a long story. I will have to explain later, I have much to do,” she added taking his hand.

About the Author

L. J. Greatrex was born one of three siblings in a small village, having only moved around the same village three times with just a small break when living in West Kirby on the Wirral. Her career began with General Electric and progressed through to the financial sector of the steel industry, spending the most recent years with a classic car parts company.


Over many years travelling the globe with family and friends, the ideas developed and are used in the Hackers Trilogy of novels which includes Conscious Revenge, Payback and Just Deserts. This series has grown, with a further six hacker books, adding Without a Doubt, Doubt Revisited, Informed Decision, Dark Forces, Misconception and Last Resort, which completes the series.  L. J. Greatrex has also written A Penny’s Eye View which is a collection of inter-related short stories.

“Fantastic Happy Tales” by L. J. Greatrex is available from Amazon at:

and in e-book format from Amazon at:

The audiobook version of “Fantastic Happy Tales” will be released soon.

Press/Media Contact Details:

Darin Jewell (L. J. Greatrex’s literary agent)
Managing Director
The Inspira Group Literary Agency
darin@theinspiragroup.com
tel. UK +208 292 5163

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Enemies United

William of Normandy set sail to arrive in England in October 1066 to take the throne and force his right above the Saxon King Harold. Successful in the battle and taking the crown his army of well-trained knights were rewarded with lands.

Mostly of lands that no longer had a Thegn, this is a story of how an elderly ailing Thegn where his lands were gifted to one of William’s most loyal knights Gilbert Bayeux, the struggle and lengths afterwards to protect his grandchild and how the two enemies united to bring peace to Alder-Sea and its villagers along with all of England. The child was disguised as a serf, the knight was intrigued and drawn to the boy’s beautiful lavender blue eyes.

Excerpt

  “This way, we will have carried out your grandfather’s wishes. You heard your Lord Gilbert. He intends to place you in some kind of work after they bury George,’ he said sternly, hoping that Guy would understand why he was insisting on the time being now. Godfrey knew if he left it until after the burial that Gilbert would place Guy in some sort of meaningful employment and that he would soon find out their secret, and had he not knelt along with George and Guy and sworn allegiance at Gilbert’s feet? No, he would sooner spirit Guy away than be looked on as a traitor. Godfrey was sure that his new master was a good man. He was torn by his pledge to George and although he liked and respected Gilbert, his loyalty was stronger to George.

The soldiers arrived and carried George to the chapel. Guy and Godfrey followed them to watch that George was laid in state in a caring manner, Guy being careful to whisper, ‘Sleep well, master.’ Godfrey stood and saluted him with his sword. One of the soldiers reported to Gilbert that there had been a suspicion of tears in Godfrey’s eyes as he left the chapel and that the boy Guy was struggling with the Lord George’s death. Strange for a boy so young.”

About the Author

Barbara Anne Machin was born in 1940 and is the youngest of eight children. She is married and has one son, and recently celebrated her diamond wedding anniversary. She has always been interested in writing but has never attempted to publish before. A friend and her husband encouraged Barbara to send her trilogy of stories to a publisher. She writes more for a hobby and has worked all her life and still works part-time.  She has held many managerial positions in large companies and does not like to be idle.

This is Barbara’s sixth book.  She has written “A Beloved Cousin” (2019), “Shadow of Guilt” (2020), “Don’t Look Back” (2020), “The Crime that Never Was” (2020) and “Nowhere to Hide” (2020).

“Enemies United” is available to purchase in hardback from Amazon UK at:

This novel is also available to purchase in paperback at:

The book can also be downloaded as an e-book from:

Press/Media Contact Details:

Darin Jewell (Barbara Machin’s literary agent)
Tel. 020 8292 5163
E-mail: darin@theinspiragroup.com

Book Review & Giveaway: The Rue Stone by Janet Stock

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The rue is a mysterious and rare being who is rarely seen, and Janna is amazed when one arrives at the inn where she works, looking for a room. The next morning, her life has changed, and she is left wondering whether she will ever see him again, but only time and the rue stone know the answer to that question.

Purchase Links

UK – https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07YG3Z3VM

US – https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07YG3Z3VM

My Review

I chose to read this book after receiving a free e-copy. All opinions in this review are my own and completely unbiased.

The Rue Stone is a short and sweet fantasy story, right around 100 pages. The world is a lot like our own but there are a few differences, such as the rue. I enjoyed the history of the rue, and Arval’s reaction when he meets Janna for the first time at the inn. Can you imagine waiting on someone whose hair and eyes keep changing colors? I would think it’d be difficult to concentrate on what they were ordering.

I liked The Rue Stone as far as it went. I wish there had been more about Janna and Arval’s relationship and more about Arval himself. Hopefully, there’s more to come in this world. One thing that would have made the story even better for me is if it had been edited.

About the Author

Having written all of my life, I decided to self-publish my writing when I turned 50. I have published four books since then. Two are collections of short stories; Dark & Fluffy; Dark & Fluffy II and 500 Words, which is flash fiction. My latest book The Rue Stone is a fantasy novella.

My passion is medieval fiction, and I am working on my first novel The Little Servant – The Wait’s Son, set in the 12th century, in Lincoln, where I live.

All four books are available on Amazon.

Social Media Links –

www.janetstockwriter.wordpress.com

fb Janetstockwriter

@janetstock12

Giveaway

*Terms and Conditions –UK entries welcome.  Please enter using the Rafflecopter box below.  The winner will be selected at random via Rafflecopter from all valid entries and will be notified by Twitter and/or email. If no response is received within 7 days then Rachel’s Random Resources reserves the right to select an alternative winner. Open to all entrants aged 18 or over.  Any personal data given as part of the competition entry is used for this purpose only and will not be shared with third parties, with the exception of the winners’ information. This will passed to the giveaway organiser and used only for fulfilment of the prize, after which time Rachel’s Random Resources will delete the data.  I am not responsible for despatch or delivery of the prize.

rafflecopter.com

New Releases

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Sophie

Sophie is a duchess and is divorced from her husband.  She divorced her husband in 1865 in the middle of the 19th century.  She had had enough of her husband.  He was a philanderer.  Now she likes boys and girls in their twenties.  After her divorce, with some good money from her ex-husband, James de Kerstrat, she sets sail to Monaco to forget him and for a new life.

In Monaco, Sophie buys a house and hires two servants, Thomas and Sylvie. She makes the acquaintance of John, the Count Delgado. They become close but John does not know that, behind his back, Sophie is having a dalliance with Sylvie. However, in the end, John and Sophie marry. 

Excerpt

“At 9.45 a.m. on Saturday, John and Sophie talk about their plans to get married.  Of course, it will be in the church not very far from Sophie’s cottage and, of course, she will invite her parents.  However, John doesn’t have parents, siblings or other relatives.  His parents are dead for a few years now.  So it is just Sophie, her parents and, Sarah, her sister, and Thomas and Sylvie.

Sophie asks John, “Can we be married as soon as possible?”

“Yes, of course, my darling,” replies John.  “Maybe next Saturday?”

“Yes, my darling,” says Sophie.  “It’s a good idea, darling.  So it will be Saturday, 30 July.  Yes, at 11am in the church.”

“Yes, okay!” says John.

At 11.30am Sophie thinks to present John to her parents and her sister.  So Sophie and John decide to go and see her parents.  It’s not too far away.  They get ready, a good jacket for Sophie and a hat each, and then they leave.  Both like to walk in the town of Monte Carlo, because it’s not very big.  After forty-five minutes of walking, Sophie sees her parents’ house.  It is the white house with the blue door and the blue shutters, with the name Hensley written on the door.

Sophie knocks on the door.  After a few minutes, a man opens the door.  Pierre, her father, says, “Hello, my daughter, you are welcome.”

About the Author

Denis Devaux was born in Nantes in France and now lives in England.    He trained as a cook. He has no diploma or academic qualifications and taught himself English.

“Sophie:  The Duchess of Kerstrat and Her Adventures in Monaco” by Denis Devaux is available in paperback from Amazon at:

Press/Media Contact Details:

Grosvenor House Publishing
Tel. 020 8339 6060
E-mail: info@grosvenorhousepublishing.co.uk

***************************************************************************************************

When do Monsters Come?

Witty, Empowering Book Keeps Kids (Happily) Compliant   

Written from the masterful imagination of Roochi Sahi, ‘When Do Monsters Come?’ takes young readers into the lives of siblings Bella and Ethan, whose resistance to everyday occurrences summons a series of quirky monsters. But Mum has a secret to make them go away, shared with readers through rhyming, thought-provoking stories. This is a relatable book unlike anything else on the market, and one that will keep kids good, willingly!

United Kingdom – Dentist Roochi Sahi owes all her success, achievement and zest to her parents; two noble mavericks who have had unwavering support for her every day.

It’s no wonder they supported her latest venture, a breakthrough children’s book – and it’s no surprise Sahi used a mother’s powerful word as a main theme in the story!

‘When Do Monsters Come?’ uses humour and rhyme to keep kids willingly compliant for the everyday tasks that can so often be arduous. The secret? A few monsters, perhaps!

‘When Do Monsters Come?’ Learning resources pack: https://www.drbyroochi.com/collections/inspired-books-for-children-parents/products/learning-resources-pack

Spokesperson video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vqX6eKNzAFU

About the book: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TvD0JNcEOe4

Dance routine: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fCCC8_AvF0M&t=4s

Sing-a-long song: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fCCC8_AvF0M&t=4s

About the Author

I was born in America, in the state of Philadelphia. When I was three years old, my family moved to Africa- and Kenya was where I spent most of my childhood. Engulfed in a world of beautiful climate, wildlife, beaches and exceptional nature, I organically grew poetic in my mind. My environment nurtured my development and both my parents being Dentists, I was inspired by them to study Dentistry. Jumping from a life surrounded by nature, I moved to the bustling city of London; to establish my education, and this put my imagination into context with my new London reality.

A fully qualified Dentist, I went on to gain post-graduate qualifications in Aesthetic Medicine. Alongside this academic but scientific upbringing, I was always fascinated with Holistic Health. After completing a study of Hypnotherapy and gaining qualifications in Complementary Medicine, I changed a great deal for myself. As a result, I became the founder of an empowering mindfulness system, called ‘Dr. By Roochi’, where ‘Discover Radiance’ uses a method of subconscious programming in adults to create powerful and positive beliefs.

I am an example of how I used the right nutrition for my body, combined with healing past mental blockages to “Discover Radiance” in my own life. I reversed my Thyroid condition, cured my PCOS, found the love of my life and managed to have beautiful children even when medicine claimed infertility. Not to mention I dropped about 35 kilograms in weight, and feel more body confident than ever.

My books for children work with a similar methodology- and what better way to help children form such pathways for thought; so that they can begin to achieve, create, learn and understand their own capabilities as early as possible.

My books aim to encourage the practice of mindfulness for children as young as 2 years old and help them cope with both imaginative interpretation and emotion as they evolve.

My mother has believed in my ability as a Children’s book author since as long as I can remember. Always forging on with the waves of life I always had an excuse to why it was never the right time. Until the tide went out, and now, here I am, writing books that have truly come from my heart.

My books, like the countless amazing ventures in my life, reflect the utmost gratitude to my supportive and loving family. Thank you for everything Dad, Mum and my best friend- my husband.

Please see below for online retailers which currently list this title:

https://m.barnesandnoble.com/w/when-do-monsters-come-roochi-sahi/1137345791?ean=9781839751431

https://www.waterstones.com/book/when-do-monsters-come/roochi-sahi/9781839751431

https://www.foyles.co.uk/witem/childrens/when-do-monsters-come,roochi-sahi-9781839751431?term=When+do+monsters

Excerpt

Mum screams-

Stop fighting!

Wear your coat!

Don’t be rude!

Cut your nails!

Wash your hair!

Clean your hands!

Nobody listens.

Mum can now stop screaming.

Contact:

Roochi Sahi
Email: roochipatel@gmail.com
Telephone: 07565461118

Guest Post: Writing Lies, Love & Redemption by Kelli A. Wilkins

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Writing Lies, Love & Redemption… A Steamy Western Romance

By Kelli A. Wilkins

www.KelliWilkins.com

Hi everyone,

One day, I was thinking about nothing in particular when this popped into my mind:

A man limping along the prairie. He’s been shot and left for dead. He’s bleeding and hurt bad. And thirsty. So thirsty. It’s hot and he wants to rest, but he knows he has to push on. If he collapses again, he’s not going to get up and he’ll die here. But maybe he’s already dead and this is hell. Or maybe not…

That was my introduction to Sam, the hero from my historical western, Lies, Love & Redemption. That was also how I introduced readers to Sam—lost and hurt and wandering along the prairie.

 

Here’s the book summary that came from that initial idea:

Lies, Love & Redemption

Shot and left for dead, Sam Hixton stumbles into a general store on the Nebraska prairie and collapses into the arms of Cassie Wilcox.

Cassie’s world is turned upside down when the handsome stranger drops into her life. Sam is another complication she doesn’t need: her business is dying and her trouble with the townspeople is escalating. Yet she’s determined to keep the store open — no matter what the cost.

As Sam recovers from his injuries, he hides the truth about his identity and convinces Cassie to let him work in the store. He’s attracted to her and admires her independent nature but quickly realizes Cassie’s in way over her head. They fight their growing attraction, and Cassie questions whether she can trust her fragile heart to a mysterious stranger. Will he accept her once he knows about her troubled past?

Cassie resists Sam’s advances and represses her feelings until one fateful night when they give in to their fiery passion. Together, they work out a plan to save the store but find their efforts are thwarted—and their lives endangered—by the locals.

Sam’s secret returns to haunt him and pulls him away just when Cassie needs him the most. Will he regain her trust when she learns the truth?

Cassie has everything invested in the store—can she save it and find true love with Sam before it’s too late?

***

 

Believe it or not, that first scene came to me several years ago. When I got the idea for the book, I did all the initial research and wrote a very rough draft. Then the manuscript just sat around. I’m not exactly sure why so many other book projects came ahead of it, but they did. The story was always there, but I guess I wasn’t ready to revise and edit it.

When I started working on the book again I found that although the basic premise still resonated with me, I wanted (and needed) to make a lot of changes. I always had the opening scene of Sam walking across the prairie in my mind. I knew where he was going (to Cassie’s store), and I had the general idea of how the story would play out and who the characters were, but I didn’t have the specifics of each scene.

As I got further into revising the book, the details became more solidified. I added new scenes, deleted others, and generally gave it a complete makeover. Now it’s a much stronger (and better) book than it was originally.

But before I started writing, I did a lot of research. First, I had to decide when and where the book would take place. I knew it would be on the prairie somewhere (Kansas? Nebraska? Iowa?) and set after the Civil War. Once I picked a time period and a place I researched everything I could about it: what was going on in the country at that time, how people traveled, what their occupations were, what they ate, how a general store was set up…

I enjoy reading about history and exploring what life was like in different time periods, so doing the research part of a historical romance is interesting—but time consuming. I was always scribbling notes about details I could use in the book. I never used them all, but adding realistic details helps draw readers into the world of the characters, even though it might be very different from how we live now.

Although I have written a lot of historical romances, the time periods are always different. I’ve used Medieval (A Most Unusual Princess), Scottish (The Viking’s Witch) and Colonial (Dangerous Indenture) settings. When I’m writing a historical romance, I never know when (or where) the characters will take me. Lies, Love & Redemption is set on the Nebraska prairie in 1877 and blends a steamy romance with mystery and danger.

 

Here’s a mild excerpt:

Cassie dusted off a can of apricots and restacked it on the shelf. “Why do I even bother?” she muttered as she picked up the next can.

Another week had come and gone, but her days were always the same. Get up at dawn, sweep out the store, dust off the cans, and . . . wait. Her few customers strolled in on Saturday and Sunday afternoons to buy odds and ends, but nearly everyone bought their bulk goods at the general store in Baxter. Townsfolk came here only when they wanted something quick—or on credit.

The bell above the door jangled, but she didn’t bother to turn around. “That you, Luke? You’re up early. I bet you haven’t seen this side of ten o’clock in—”

She glanced over her shoulder and shrieked. The can of apricots slipped from her hand and rolled across the floor.

A stranger covered in blood leaned against the doorjamb.

She rushed to his side. “Who are you? What happened?”

The man locked his blue eyes onto hers. “Help me.”

He held a battered leather satchel out to her. “Hide this,” he said, then collapsed forward.

Cassie caught him around the waist and eased him to the plank floor. Was he dead? She felt the side of his sweaty neck. His heart was beating, but he looked like hell. His clothes were coated in blood and dirt, and his face had a sickly white hue to it. He was lucky to be alive. Someone had shot him full of holes.

Where had he come from? Holloway was in the middle of nowhere with no railroad connection, and it wasn’t on the stagecoach line. She hadn’t heard a horse out front, and he couldn’t have walked here from Baxter, could he? That would be suicide.

Wild ideas raced through her mind as she stared down at him. Maybe he was a fugitive or a bank robber. Decent people didn’t get themselves shot for no reason. Whoever shot him could’ve been following him, looking to finish him off.

Her gaze settled on the satchel. What was in it? Money? Gold? The deed to a silver mine? Why did he want her to hide it?

Cassie brushed her hair away from her face and frowned. What the hell was she supposed to do with him? Why had he wandered into her store, of all places? The last thing she needed was a half-dead stranger complicating her life. His being here would only stir up trouble—and she already had more than she needed.

Maybe she could— With a start, she realized he hadn’t moved. She shook his bloodied left shoulder.  The man remained motionless. “Damn it to hell.” She yanked the satchel from his grip, then ran behind the counter and stuffed it in the bottom drawer. There wasn’t time to look inside and see what the stranger was hiding. Whoever he was, he needed help—fast.

x

x

Order your copy of Lies, Love & Redemption here:

Amazon  *  B&N  *  Other Platforms

 

 

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I hope you enjoyed this inside look at the making of Lies, Love & Redemption. I welcome comments and questions from readers. Be sure to follow my blog for the latest updates and visit me on social media!

All through November, I’ll be highlighting my Medallion Press historical romances on my blog and Facebook pages. These full-length romance novels are available on several ebook platforms and all are just $2.99. If you haven’t read any of them, why not give them a try?

 And… FREE READS from all of my romances (all genres) are now on my Manic Readers page: http://www.manicreaders.com/KelliAWilkins/
Happy Reading,

Kelli Continue reading →

New Release & Giveaway: Outsider by Natasha S. Brown

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NEW RELEASE…

On the western highlands of Scotland, a springtime storm pummels the coast while Kristie’s brother is out fishing. When he fails to return home, Kristie turns away from her list of chores to search the loch in an effort to ease her pregnant sister-in-law’s fears. Instead of finding Domnall, she discovers a naked and battered man washed up on shore and worries he could be a thieving reiver or worse–an Englishman.

When the handsome outsider wakes, he is unable to remember who he is or how he came to be there. Although the feisty and melancholy Kristie isn’t keen on him remaining, her young neighbor, Jock, takes to the playful stranger and names Creag after the rocky crags where the loch meets the sea. Not long after the lad speaks of selkies, magical seals who shed their skins to live as humans, Creag dreams he is swimming deep beneath the waves.

Kristie is desperate to keep the farm running for her missing brother while Creag’s sleep is filled with strange visions–glimpses that may reveal secrets to his past, but he may soon wish they were only a dream.

**CONTENT WARNING: Due to mature content, recommended for readers aged 18+**

TIME OF MYTHS
Shapeshifter Sagas {Western European Myths from the Middle Ages}

Widow {13thc. | Black Shuck | England}
Scars {10thc. | Fenrir | Iceland}
Tides {10thc. | Kraken | Great Britain/Ireland}
Outsider {14thc. | Selkie | Scotland}

Available to buy from….
Amazon.com   Amazon.co.uk   Paperback

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My Review

I chose to read this book after receiving a free copy. All opinions in this review are my own and completely unbiased.

This is the first book I’ve read in Shapeshifter Sagas. I hadn’t heard of a selkie before so I was a little intrigued.

Poor Kristie has had a rough life. She’s been living with her brother and sister-in-law ever since her husband was killed in a war. She had a baby but the girl died when she was only 6 months old. Now her brother is missing after going out to sea to fish with a neighbor. She and her pregnant sister-in-law, Jean, are scared but hopeful that they’ll find their way home.

Then a naked man, an outsider, shows up on the beach near their home. Kristie wants to just leave him but Jean insists that they bring him home and give him some food and clothing and a place to recover if he survives.

The relationship between Kristie and the outsider is a fun one to read about. She has no intention of ever getting married again but she’s attracted to him. I enjoyed how he likes to get her riled up by making sarcastic remarks. 

I like the author’s writing style. It flows well and draws a vivid picture of the surroundings. She also captures to an extent what it would have been like living back then, such as leaving a person’s body in the home while neighbors come to give their respects (and the smell of that body after a day or two) or how much hard work was involved in just surviving.

I definitely recommend Outsider if you enjoy historical romance, especially if you like a touch of fantasy.

 

 

Also Available

Widow (Time of Myths: Shapeshifter Sagas Book 1)

Lady Rayne has few options as a young widow. Either her father will marry her off to a wealthy nobleman–no matter how old and disagreeable he may be, or she will become a nun like her aunt at Grimsford Abbey. The choice is easy: her interest in writing is not supported in the dark halls of her father’s home. Rayne eagerly anticipates becoming a scribe and learning the art of illumination and book making. But first she must travel along the treacherous roads of East Anglia.

Far from the confines of Norwich, Rayne hears fables of an enormous ghostly hound called the Black Shuck. She tries to ignore them until she finds herself staring into its expressive brown eyes. With every heartbeat, her chances of reaching Grimsford Abbey disappear. If only she could live to tell the tale.

**CONTENT WARNING: Due to mature content, recommended for readers aged 18+**

Available to buy from….
Amazon.com   Amazon.co.uk   Barnes and Noble   iBooks   GPlay   

Download the novella, Widow, FREE when you subscribe to the author’s newsletter- Download the novella, Widow, FREE when you subscribe to the author’s newsletter- 

Continue reading →

Guest Post: An Inside Look at Loving a Wild Stranger by Kelli A. Wilkins

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An Inside Look at Loving a Wild Stranger

By Kelli A. Wilkins
www.amazon.com/author/kelliwilkins

 

Hi everyone,

Today I’m sharing an inside look and an excerpt from my latest historical romance, Loving a Wild Stranger. This full-length pioneer-wilderness romance is set in the Michigan Territory and blends adventure with a sensual love story.

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Here’s the summary:

lovingwildstranger

Loving a Wild Stranger

A woman running from her past… straight into the arms of an untamed man

 

In a moment of desperation, Kathleen Stanton flees her pampered life in Kingston, New York and ends up stranded in a small town in the Michigan Territory. Out of money and forced to rely on her instincts, she impersonates a handsome stranger’s mail-order bride.

 

Committed to her deception, Kathleen calls herself Michelle and starts her new life with Luther in an isolated cabin in the wilderness. Luther can’t believe his luck when his beautiful bride arrives, but something doesn’t feel right about his new wife. Michelle has terrifying nightmares involving a man named Roger and is reluctant to talk about where she came from.
Luther’s friend, Redfeather visits and tries to convince Luther to send Michelle back east. Distrusting Michelle, he warns Luther that his bride is not what she seems. But Luther is in love with Michelle, and he is harboring a secret of his own—one that might force Michelle to reject him when she learns the truth.
Michelle falls in love with Luther and adapts to her new way of life. Together, they face off against brutal townspeople and overcome harsh living conditions. When they finally give in to their desires and agree to become a proper man and wife, a dark figure from Michelle’s past resurfaces and threatens to destroy everything.

 

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The idea for this book started with a simple premise: a woman on the run impersonates a mountain man’s mail-order bride and lives in his cabin in the woods. From there, I thought about the characters and how they would interact, learn to live with each other, and naturally, fall in love. 

 

But before I started writing, I went to the library and did a lot of research. First, I had to decide on the time period. When and where I set my story would determine all the necessary details that bring the characters to life—and also influence the plot.

 

Once the time period was finalized, I needed to learn about mail-order brides, fur trapping and trading, Native Americans, and get an overall feel for what life was like back then. As I wrote the book, I incorporated my research as background information. This gives the story a rich historical feel without going overboard with details that might bog down the book or bore readers.

 

I enjoyed creating the characters and all the conflicts that take place between them. Michelle and Luther are very different people—sort of like a city mouse and a country mouse—and I played on their differences in lifestyles, clothing, expectations, etc. throughout the book. When Luther’s friend Redfeather arrives, Michelle realizes how far she is out of her comfort zone and begins to see her situation (and Luther) in a new light.

 

As Luther and Michelle get to know each other (and fight for each other) they realize they have a lot more in common than they once thought. They both had to fend for themselves to survive in a rough world, with little or no family support. This brings them closer together and makes their love stronger.

 

I enjoyed writing this book, and I hope readers will fall in love with the characters the way I did.

 

Continue reading →

Book Review: The Siren by Ulla Beattie

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Young Norma marries a rich older man but the union is shattered by his premature death. A recurring theme of disaster comes through her second husband’s jealous younger brother who will stop at nothing to protect his own inheritance.
Further difficulties come through her third marriage where her husband leaves her to enter into another, bigamous marriage. After his death, his bigamously married wife is left penniless. Her brother wants to find the woman who deprived his sister of her pension. In the process, he becomes fascinated by the Siren who has outlived all her husbands.

Available on Amazon.

 

My Review

I received a free copy of this book and was not compensated for my review.

The Siren is the story of the life of Norma who is a cobbler’s daughter. She and her widowed mother are barely able to make ends meet by running a haberdashery. Because of this, Norma’s mother can’t wait for her to marry a man who can take care of them. The problem is that Norma wants to marry a man she loves, not for money or status. 

Norma does find love with a man who is much older than her. They are very happy and this would be her happily ever after, but he unexpectedly dies. Norma’s next two marriages are mistakes, but Norma eventually learns from her mistakes. 

Norma’s character is complex. She is independent from the beginning but, as she gets older, she continues to learn and grow. Her interactions with men are intriguing and, as smart as she is, it takes her a long time to figure out that a marriage must have both love and passion to work. 

I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical romance or historical fiction.

 

About the Author

71cs3y0koxl-_ux250_Ulla Marita Beattie was born in Helsinki, Finland in 1945, which explains why many of her stories have a Nordic flavour.

She has travelled widely and has lived in Austria, Russia, Cyprus, Belgium and Switzerland.Since 1997 she has been based in London, with frequent visits to France.

She is married and has two daughters, now grown up. She has had a lifelong interest in children’s stories, particularly those read to her own and other people’s children.

You can read more about Ulla and her books at http://www.ullabeattie.co.uk.

 

 

Book Review: The Heart’s Pursuit by Robin Lee Hatcher

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18965690Title: The Heart’s Pursuit

Author: Robin Lee Hatcher

Genre: Historical Romance, Western

Publication Date: May 13, 2014

About the Book

(from Goodreads)

A jilted bride desperate to save her family from ruin.
A bounty hunter seeking vengeance for a ravaged past.
An arduous trek toward justice—or redemption.

Silver Matlock and Jared Newman know traveling together is a bad idea. Bad for Silver’s already tarnished reputation in her small Colorado town. Bad for bounty hunter Jared’s secret, single-minded mission for revenge. But Silver is determined to track down the rogue who left her at the altar and stole the last remnant of her father’s fortune. And Jared’s in a hurry to hunt down the murderer who destroyed his family—even if Silver is too distractingly beautiful for comfort.

The pair takes off over mountain and desert, past bleak homesteads and raw mining towns, hot on the trail of the two villains who took what wasn’t theirs to take. Soon supplies dwindle, secrets emerge, and suspicion leave Silver and Jared at odds when they need each other most. To confront an enemy deadlier than desert rattlesnakes and rocky cliffs, Silver and Jared must learn to forgive and trust and face the question they haven’t dared voice: What happens next?

 

My Review

This is my kind of romance! I enjoy historical fiction and this is not only full of the Old West but there’s more action than romance. What romance there is, is clean. 

Robin Lee Hatcher’s writing flows well and is very easy to read. I read this book in one day and I’m not the fastest reader. 

I liked the main characters. Jared is a bounty hunter who views himself as a bad person but it’s obvious to Silver pretty quickly that he’s a good guy. Silver is a headstrong young lady who would fit better into today’s world but it a good match for Jared. My favorite character was Dean, a boy they picked up along the way while trying to find the man who stole her family’s money. He’s a brave boy and Silver couldn’t help but fall in love with him.

I definitely recommend this book, especially if you enjoy a clean historical romance.

 

About the Author

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Robin Lee Hatcher discovered her vocation as a novelist after many years of reading everything she could put her hands on, including the backs of cereal boxes and ketchup bottles. Recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award from both American Christian Fiction Writers and Romance Writer of America and the winner of the Christy Award for Excellence in Christian Fiction, the RITA Award for Best Inspirational Romance, and numerous other awards and recognitions, Robin is the author of over 70 novels/novellas. Her books have been translated into Dutch, French, and Chinese (to name a few).

Robin enjoys being with her family, spending time in the beautiful Idaho outdoors, reading books that make her cry, and watching romantic movies. She and her husband make their home outside of Boise, sharing it with Poppet the high-maintenance Papillon and Pinky the feline terror. Join her on her Facebook Page (http://www.facebook.com/robinleehatcher) and/or Twitter and/or her website & blog.