Wednesday's Warriors - Aloha to Diana Cosby and AN OATH SWORN (The Oath Trilogy)

Diana Cosby is celebrating the release of OATH SWORN, Book 3 in the Oath Trilogy:

Bound by honor to save a country they love…

The bastard daughter of the French king, Marie Alesia Serouge has just one chance at freedom when she escapes her captor in the Scottish highlands. A mere pawn in a scheme to destroy relations between France and Scotland, Marie must reach her father and reveal the Englishmen’s treacherous plot. But she can’t abandon the wounded warrior she stumbles upon—and she can’t deny that his fierce masculinity, Scottish or not, stirs something wild inside her.

Colyne MacKerran is on a mission for his king, and he’s well aware that spies are lying in wait for him everywhere. Wounded en route, he escapes his attackers and is aided by an alluring Frenchwoman…whose explanation for her presence in the Highlands rings false. Even if she saved his life, he cannot trust her with his secrets. But he won’t leave her to the mercy of brigands, either—and as they race for the coast, he can’t help but wonder if her kiss is as passionate as she is.

With nothing in common but their honor, Colyne and Marie face a dangerous journey to safety through the untamed Scottish landscape—and their own reckless hearts…

A retired Navy Chief, Diana Cosby is an international bestselling author of Scottish medieval romantic suspense. Books in her award-winning MacGruder Brothers series are translated in five languages. Diana has spoken at the Library of Congress, Lady Jane’s Salon in NYC, and appeared in Woman’s Day, on USA Today’s romance blog, “Happy Ever After,” MSN.com, Atlantic County Women Magazine, and Texoma Living Magazine.

After her career in the Navy, Diana dove into her passion – writing romance novels. With 34 moves behind her, she was anxious to create characters who reflected the amazing cultures and people she’s met throughout the world. With the release of her 1st book in her new Scottish medieval The Oath Trilogy, An Oath Taken, which hit bestseller lists in Canada and the United Kingdom, as well as the release of the e Box Set of the MacGruder Brothers series, she’s now preparing for the last two books in The Oath trilogy, An Oath Broken – 22 June, and, An Oath Sworn – 23 December, 2015!

Diana looks forward to the years of writing ahead and meeting the amazing people who will share this journey.

I am giving away Scottish swag to one randomly selected commenter.  To enter the giveaway,

1.  Leave a comment how many moves you have made .... Diana has made 34 in the military!  

2.  Comments are open though Saturday, December 26, 10 pm in Baltimore.

3.  I'll post the winner on Sunday, December 27.

Mahalo,

Kim in Baltimore

Aloha Spirit in Charm City

More books in the series ...

Fàilte St. Andrew's Day, Monica McCarty, and The Striker

Triùir a thig gun iarraidh – gaol, eud is eagal.
Three that come unbidden – love, jealousy and fear.

Just in time for St. Andrew's Day on November 30, Monica McCarty's THE STRIKER, Book 10 in the celebrated Highland Guard series ...

Six years ago, Eoin "Striker” MacLean endured the greatest betrayal of his life, a disaster that led Robert the Bruce to a crushing defeat and left Eoin without the spirited woman who ruled his heart. Eoin knew that falling in love with his sworn enemy’s daughter was risky, dividing him between a possessive desire for beautiful Margaret MacDowell and an undying loyalty to his king. He promised Bruce that he would keep his fiery bride in the dark about the elite Highland Guard, but he could not predict the dire consequences his secret would have on his young marriage. Nor could he foresee how surrendering to temptation could cripple Bruce’s cause, forcing Eoin to blame his wife—and himself for trusting her.

Now, as Bruce prepares to challenge the resistance’s remaining strongholds, Eoin finally has his chance for revenge against the woman he once loved so fiercely and her entire clan. But when ferociously independent Margaret reveals a surprise that unites her with Eoin, neither of them will let their love go down without a fight.

What do you get when you mix a legal career, a baseball career, motherhood, and a love of history with a voracious reader? In my case, a Historical Romance Author.  Find out more from Monica's website, monicamccarty.com.

I am giving away a print copy of THE STRIKER to one randomly selected commenter.  To enter the giveaway,

1.  Leave a comment about Alba - Scotland.  It was my favorite place to visit ... until I moved to Hawaii.  Yet both Alba and Hawaii share the same sense of spirituality in the culture and land.

2.  Comments are open through Saturday, December 5, 10 pm in Baltimore.

3.  I'll post the winner on Sunday, December 6.

Mahalo,

Kim in Baltimore

Aloha Spirit in Charm City

Aloha to Amanda Forester and THE HIGHLANDER'S BRIDE - Character Interview

Their attraction is forbidden

All Highland warrior Gavin Patrick wants is to get back to his native Scotland. But before he can leave the battlefield, he’s given a final mission—escort Lady Marie Colette to her fiancé. Under no circumstances is he to lay hands on the beautiful, clever-tongued heiress…no matter how desperate the temptation.

Their desire, undeniable

Forced to pose as a married couple to make their escape from France, Gavin and Marie Colette find themselves thrown into peril…and each other’s arms. As the danger mounts, so does their forbidden passion. But it isn’t until Marie Colette is taken from him that Gavin is forced to decide—is he willing to lose the woman who stole his heart, or will he jeopardize his honor, defy his promise, and steal her in return?

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Full Name: Sir Gavin Patrick
Nickname (if applicable): Gavin
Height: 6’1”
Hair Color: Dark brown
Eye Color: Brown
Age: 22
Originally from: born in 1337 near Balquidder, Scotland

Describe yourself in 200 words or less: Hullo. I am Sir Gavin, pleased to make yer acquaintance. I hail from the Highlands, under the clan MacLaren, where my uncle is laird. I came to France several years ago on a quest, which remains undone. It grieves me to leave it unfinished, but I was ‘requested’ (neatly tricked, if ye care for the truth) to escort the spoiled Lady Mary Colette to the Highlands to her new husband. When I saved the life o’ the duc de Bergerac and he promised me a rich reward, escorting his brat of a daughter, wasna exactly what I had in mind. But, I am a man o’ my word, so the lady will be deposited wi’ her affianced husband as soon as may be. And trust me, it canna be too soon.

What matters the most to you in your life? Beyond serving the Good Lord, as every knight is sworn to do, my family and my clan are the most important things in my life. That is why I sought this quest, to find the resting place o’ my father, who died in battle in France, and mark it wi’ the honor that is his due. I regret I have not been able to find this place. And yet, in my return, I ken my mither will be greatly pleased to see me, so I shall be content in that. Perhaps when I return to the Highlands I shall find a bonny lass o’ my own and start a family. As soon as I can rid myself o’ the Lady Colette, that is.

What is your favorite way to pass the time? I have’na had much time to pass in leisure, truth be told. Since I have been in France I’ve been busy lending my sword to help the French fight against the increasing presence o’ the English. They are clever bastards they are, and they know how to fight, I’ll give them that. Back home, I did enjoy a bit o’ fishing. It shall be good to get back to the quiet life—if I can manage to sit still long enough to enjoy it!

If money was no object and you had 3 weeks free of responsibility what would you do with your time? That is a question that is. I am looking forward to seeing my clan again. ‘Tis not easy being a Highlander in the French court, wi’ some little noble always looking down their nose at me, or actually looking up their nose at me for I am taller here than any other knight I’ve met. And yet, I’ve got a bit o’ the wanderers soul to me, and I would no’ mind travelling a bit to see the world. Though I prefer to travel alone and no’ saddled wi’ this French lady and all her ladies and all her belongings. Saints preserve me!

Amanda Forester holds a PhD in psychology and worked many years in academia before discovering that writing historical romance was way more fun. A Publishers Weekly Top Ten author, her books have been given starred reviews from Booklist, Publishers Weekly, and a Top Pick from RT Book Reviews. Whether in the rugged Highlands of medieval Scotland or the decadent ballrooms of Regency England, her novels offer fast-paced adventures filled with wit, intrigue, and romance. You can visit her at amandaforester.com.

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Sourcebooks offers an excerpt from THE HIGHLANDER'S BRIDE ...

France, 1359

Lady Marie Colette had one chance. She needed to secure the Highlander’s agreement to decline marrying her, and she needed to do it quickly, before her father returned. She had never before defied her father, but if he thought he could protect her by arranging a marriage with a Highland warrior and send her far away to Scotland of all places, he was much confused.

In truth, Sir Gavin was a fine specimen of a man. She was fair enough to admit it. He was a young man and built on a large scale, towering over most men. He had broad shoulders and a muscular chest, well-defined beneath the formfitting surcoat. His dark brown hair hung down to his square jaw and had a bit of a thick wave to it. He was clean shaven, a surprise considering he was a barbaric Highlander.

“I have heard rumors o’ yer beauty, but ye’re bonnier than anything I heard described.” Sir Gavin spoke in a rich tone with a lyrical accent, pleasing to her ears. However, if he thought he could win her over with compliments, he was much mistaken. She had been told so often she was beautiful that the words no longer had meaning.

“Please understand. It is impossible for me to marry you. But if you make an arrangement with me now, you will not leave empty-handed. Name your weight in gold to walk away.” Her heard pounded to make such a blunt offer. In truth, she would never have made such a crass offer to a French knight, whose honor would have been greatly impinged, but Sir Gavin was a foreigner. A Highlander. Were they not only here in France to profit off of the long war?

Sir Gavin’s eyebrows rose for a moment before falling back down in resignation. “I will no’ take the fortune of a lady, nor will I force anyone to marry me.” He spoke in a careless manner, as if what she offered was nothing to him.

Colette released a breath she had not realized she was holding. Had he just agreed not to marry her? Would he simply walk away? “So you will tell my father you will not marry me?”

A wry smile played about his lips and she had the distinct impression he was not taking the situation as seriously as she thought it deserved. “I am yers to command. If ye wish me to leave, I will go.”

Relief washed over her. She would not be banished to the wilds of Scotland with some strange, albeit attractive, man. “Thank you, Sir Knight. My father, he wished to protect me by sending me far, but I cannot see myself in such a wild, foreign place. We would be most unequally yoked.”

Gavin leaned a shoulder against the stone wall and stared out the dark window into the night. “The Highlands are a rugged place and my home is no’ nearly as grand as this fine castle. ’Tis a wild place, but in the evening, when the sun’s rays touch the high peaks, setting them aglow with the fiery light, ’tis so beautiful it robs yer breath. No finely decorated hall could ever compare.”

Colette opened her mouth but no words came.

He turned back to her, appraising her finery with a critical eye. “Someday, God willing, I shall take my bride there, a bride who chooses me above all men. We will no’ be surrounded by courtiers or pageantry or fancy clothes or ridiculous pointed shoes.”

Colette swallowed, heat creeping up the back of her neck. Had he seen the points of her shoes?

He stepped close to her, moving with a fluid grace that made her heart beat faster. “In the Highlands we dinna have all yer comforts, but what we do have we fiercely defend.”

“What do you have?” she asked in a voice barely above a whisper.

“Freedom. In the Highlands, m’lady, ye would be free.”

Free? She stared up at him. He dangled before her the one thing all her riches could never buy. He offered her freedom.

He leaned nearer and her eyes fell to his lips, which inexplicably appeared soft. She could not help but respond to the irresistible pull of his inviting mouth. He moved slowly, bending down so that their lips drew dangerously close. She breathed in the scent of him, an intoxicating mix of wood smoke, fine wine, and pure man.

The door creaked and her father strode back in the room as both Colette and Gavin jumped away from each other. The duc de Bergerac spread a scroll out on a table. “This is the marriage accord I have made with the Baron of Kintail.”

“Wait…who?” Colette tried to gather together her swirling thoughts in order to form speech. She glanced at Sir Gavin. The careless smile was gone. They had both made the wrong assumption.

Gavin wasn’t meant for Colette at all.

Alohat Mia Marlowe and ONCE UPON A PLAID

Mia Marlowe is celebrating the release of ONCE UPON A PLAID,  a Medieval Highlander romance laced with holiday spirit from her Spirit of the Highlands series ...

Many would count Katherine Douglas fortunate indeed. Laird William Douglas is broad-shouldered, gentle-handed, everything a lass could dream. But after four years of marriage, Katherine still knows little of what goes on in his heart. And she has yet to bear him an heir. The distance between them is too great—and so she flees over the snowy highlands to Glengarry Castle, home of her childhood, to set her husband free.

But William won’t let his wife slip away without a fight. Before long, he’s at her father’s threshold himself, witness to the rumbles of discontent in Glengarry, the bright joy of Yuletide at a family hearth, and the hidden needs of his own beloved…

My mother recently returned from a trip to the UK, including Scotland, bringing back bookmarks for me to giveaway.  One randomly commenter wins a choice of bookmark!  To enter the giveaway,

1.  Leave a comment about a special holiday tradition in your family (commenter's choice of holiday).

2.  Comments are open through Saturday, October 11, 10 pm in Baltimore. 

3.  I'll post the winner on Sunday, October 12.

Mahalo,

Kim in Baltimore

Aloha Spirit in Charm City

Learn more about Mia and her books at miamarlowe.com. 

Check out my review of PLAID TIDINGS, Book 1 in the series, at this link.

Aloha to Victoria Roberts and MY HIGHLAND SPY

Oh, I have Alba on my mind ... Victoria Roberts joins us today to celebrate the release of MY HIGHLAND SPY, Book 1 in her new series Highland Spies:

This Highland Laird won't bow to the Crown
Laird Ruairi Sutherland refuses to send his only son away to be educated by the English. And he most definitely will not appear in Edinburgh to pay homage to a liege who has no respect for Scotland. So he does what any laird would do-he lies to the king. The last thing Ruairi expects is a beautiful English governess to appear on his doorstep.

But this lady spy might make him...
Lady Ravenna Walsingham is a seasoned spy who is sent to the savage Highlands to uncover a nefarious plot against the Crown. Playing the part of an English governess—a job easier said than done—she infiltrates the home of Laird Sutherland, a suspected conspirator.

If she doesn't betray him first
Ravenna soon discovers that the only real threat Sutherland poses is to her heart. But will the proud Highland laird ever forgive her when he discovers the woman he loves in an English spy? 

“An exciting Highland tale of intrigue, betrayal, and love.”
—Hannah Howell, New York Times bestselling author of Highland Master

“Roberts’ newest features a surprise-laden, quick-paced plot, replete with unconventional and fiercely independent characters. Her lyrical prose grabs readers’ attention, and the high level of emotional tension simply adds to the depth of the story. This book begs to be read and reread.”
—RT Book Reviews

Buy Links: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Books-A-Million

I asked Victoria ... what makes a successful spy-turned-governess?

Thank you so much for having me today at the SOS Aloha blog. Although I’ve never been to Hawaii, it is a place that is definitely on my bucket list.

I think what makes Lady Ravenna Walsingham successful at what she does is the fact that she longs to follow in her father’s footsteps. You see…her father, Lord Francis Walsingham, had been Queen Elizabeth’s principal secretary until his death. Little did anyone know that her sire had also been the queen’s spy. Given that Ravenna’s father had handled all of the royal correspondence and had determined the agenda of the council meetings, he had been a very influential man in his time.

But now it’s Ravenna’s time to shine.

Ravenna is a spy for King James and the Crown, the same as her father had been under Queen Elizabeth’s reign. When Ravenna was old enough to show an interest in political matters, her father had educated and conditioned her to one day take his place. She certainly lives in a man’s world, but that’s why she’s so proficient at doing what she does—a mere woman is the last thing anyone would expect.
Family is important to Ravenna but so is king and country. Under the guidance of her Uncle Walter, Ravenna is sent to the Scottish Highlands under the guise of a governess. She’s determined to fulfill her duty and obligations—well, only if a certain brawny Highland laird doesn’t continue to muddle her thoughts.
How far would you go for something you believe in?

Costumed guides at Linlithgow Palace

Victoria lives in western Pennsylvania with her husband of twenty one years and their two beautiful children—not to mention one spoiled dog. When she is not plotting her next Scottish adventure, she’s dragging her clan to every Scottish festival under the sun. Visit her at victoriarobertsauthor.com.

Facebook: link
Goodreads: link

Sourcebooks is giving away a print copy of MY HIGHLAND SPY to one randomly selected commenter in the US and Canada.  To enter the giveaway,

1.  Leave a comment about spywork - could you be a spy?

2.  Comments are open through Satruday, September 6, 10 pm in Baltimore.

3.  I'll post the winner on Sunday, September 7.

Mahalo,

Kim in Baltimore

Aloha Spirit in Charm City

Aloha to Jenna Jaxon and TIME ENOUGH TO LOVE

Today is Medieval Monday with Jenna Jaxon!  She joins us with a special guest post - her favorite historical movies!  Please join me in welcoming Jenna Jaxon ...

I love history. I grew up in the historic town of Petersburg, VA. I began my college career as a History major, and I write historical romance. So of course I’m a fan of historical movies.

I was surprised that I ended up having to limit my list to ten and to limit the time period to pre-20th century (with one notable exception). What I also realized as I put the list together was that all of these movies has a romance either at its core, or at least tangentially. Likely that’s why I like them so much.

My top ten historical movies (in no particular order):

1. Gone With the Wind—one of the first historical films that made a big impression on me. Clark Gable is the epitome of the romantic hero, even to a girl of 13.

2. The Wind and the Lion—not sure how many will have seen this. Loved Sean Connery as a Berber; Candice Bergen is more than his match. Unrequited love, but the romance is there.

3. The Lion in Winter—Not a traditional romance. Christmas in 1189 with King Henry II, Eleanor of Aquitaine and their three sons. It’s a very funny movie, but you see the love between Henry and Eleanor.

4. Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves—I’ve watched this one so many times I can recite the dialogue for you. LOL Just a wonderful costume action movie with a great cast and story.

5. Dances with Wolves—another Kevin Costner movie that I will immediately sit down and watch if it comes on television. The attention to detail and production values are gorgeous, the story moving, the casting excellent. I can only watch up to the point where he’s captured by the soldiers. After that, it’s too painful.

6. Titanic—the only movie on my list set in the 20th century. But this movie again has stunning attention to historical detail and the story is so moving. Technically not a romance, as there’s no true HEA, despite the final moments.

7. The Patriot—romance takes a back seat to fatherly love in this wonderful movie. Again, casting and a moving story set this apart for me.

8. Braveheart—More Mel Gibson and despite all the brouhaha about the historical inaccuracies, the feeling of the savagery of the period comes through vividly, as does Wallace’s passion for his wife and his country.

9. Les Miserables—I was such a fan of the musical I was overjoyed when the movie lived up to all my expectations. This movie captures all the emotions: love, hate, fear, jealousy, patriotism with music that lifts your heart to hear it.

10. Last of the Mohicans—The version with Daniel Day-Lewis. The story details the clash of cultures overcome by love. The scene on the rock between Hawkeye and Cora is one of the hottest love scenes, in my opinion.

Mahalo, Jenna, for sharing this great list with us!  I've become a history buff as a result of becoming a historical romance fan!  

White Castle in Wales

Jenna Jaxon is a multi-published author of historical and contemporary romance. She has been reading and writing historical romance since she was a teenager. A romantic herself, she has always loved a dark side to the genre, a twist, suspense, a surprise. She tries to incorporate all of these elements into her own stories. She lives in Virginia with her family and a small menagerie of pets. When not reading or writing, she indulges her passion for the theatre, working with local theatres as a director. She often feels she is directing her characters on their own private stage.

Jenna is a PAN member of Romance Writers of America as well as a member of Chesapeake Romance Writers. Her debut novel, Only Scandal Will Do, is the first in her House of Pleasure series, set in Georgian London. Her medieval novel, Time Enough to Love, is a Romeo & Juliet-esque tale, set at the time of the Black Death.

She has equated her writing to an addiction to chocolate because once she starts she just can’t stop.

Jenna is giving away a digital copy of TIME ENOUGH TO LOVE:

When Lady Alyse de Courcy is betrothed to Sir Geoffrey Longford, she has no choice but to make the best of a bad bargain. The hulking knight is far from her ideal man, and although he does possess some wit and charm, he is no match for the sinfully sensual man she secretly admires, Thomas, Earl of Braeton, her betrothed’s best friend.

From the first, Sir Geoffrey finds himself smitten by Lady Alyse, and, despite her infatuation with his friend, vows to win her love. When Geoffrey puts his mind to wooing Alyse, he is delighted to find her succumbing to his seduction. But when cruel circumstances separate them, Geoffrey must watch helplessly as Thomas steps in to protect Alyse—and falls in love with her himself.

As the three courtiers accompany Princess Joanna to her wedding in Spain, they run headlong into the Black Plague. With her world plunged into chaos, Alyse struggles with her feelings for both the men she loves. But which love will survive?
To enter the giveaway,

1.  Leave a comment about your favorite historical movie.  As I prepare this blog, INDIANA JONES AND THE LAST CRUSADE is playing on Spike TV.  How can I resist Harrison Ford and Sean Connery?

2.  Comments are open through Saturday, September 6, 10 pm in Baltimore.  

3.  I'll post the winner on Sunday, September 7.

Mahalo,

Kim in Baltimore
Aloha Spirit in Charm City

Caerphilly Castle in Wales 

Aloha to Amber Lin's BETRAYING MERCY - Blog Tour

Amber Lin is celebrating the release of BETRAYING MERCY:

Can she be more than a mistress?

With a tarnished reputation, Mercy Lyndhurst expected to become the Earl of Rochford’s mistress, not his wife. Immediately abandoned by her husband after their wedding, Mercy transformed herself from commoner to countess, vowing to protect the lands and people her husband was forced to leave.

Over the past six years, William has restored the family fortune all the while tortured by his memories of Mercy…and the dark night he killed a man. When a threat draws him home, William learns just how much has changed—including his wife. While the passion still flares between them, he fears he has wounded her too badly to regain her trust. But as the danger grows they must unite to save the estate…and possibly their marriage.

Praise for Amber Lin’s Books

“Amber Lin shows us that romance isn’t just for the rich and shiny. Love can find its way even into the dark corners of the most damaged hearts.” – Tiffany Reisz, bestselling author

“Amber’s work cuts deeper than that of anybody else I can think of—her prose is beautiful, the dark emotions are darker, the sex is sexier.” – Ruthie Knox, New York Times Bestselling Author

“She has a beautiful, atmospheric writing style and you’re not going to find sentimental love here, nor are you going to find hearts and flowers. This is taut, compelling, thoughtful and also gritty, earthy and unembellished.” – Sinfully Sexy Book Reviews

“Oh and as for Amber Lin, well she was already on my shelf as a favourite Author of mine and yet again she proved just why. Her writing style is beautiful, flawless and so evocative you live and breathe her stories.” -TotallyBooked Blog

“Amber Lin has created an incredible story that is a captivating mix of redemption, love, and psychological suspense that I thoroughly enjoyed, and I highly recommend it to more adventurous readers!” – The Autumn Review

“Since the release of Giving It Up, the first book in her Lost Girls series, I have been a die-hard fan of this author and have been singing her praises to everyone who wants to listen. Four full-length novels later and it is evident that Amber Lin’s talent is not restricted to dark romances, she also writes wonderful steamy and sweet contemporaries.” – Swept Away by Romance

Amazon
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iBooks

Amber Lin writes erotic romance with damaged souls and deep emotion.

Her debut novel, Giving It Up, received The Romance Review’s Top Pick, Night Owl Top Pick, and 5 Blue Ribbons from Romance Junkies. RT Book Reviews gave it 4.5 stars, calling it “truly extraordinary.” She has been published by Loose Id, Carina Press, and Entangled.

Amber married her high school sweetheart, birthed a kid who’s smarter than she is, and spends her nights writing down her dirty thoughts. In other words, life is good.

For more information on Amber Lin and her novels please visit her website and blog. You can also connect with her on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Goodreads. Sign up for Amber Lin’s Newsletter.

Betraying Mercy Blog Tour Schedule

Monday, August 4
Review at Reviews by Molly

Tuesday, August 5
Spotlight & Excerpt at Romantic Historical Reviews

Wednesday, August 6
Review at The Librarian Fatale

Thursday, August 7
Review at From the TBR Pile
Interview & Giveaway at Girl Meets Books

Friday, August 8
Facebook Launch Party, 7:00-9:00pm EST

Saturday, August 9
Spotlight at I Heart Reading

Monday, August 11
Review at Pure Textuality

Tuesday, August 12
Review at Book of Secrets

Wednesday, August 13
Spotlight & Giveaway at Let Them Read Books

Thursday, August 14
Spotlight & Giveaway at SOS Aloha

Monday, August 18
Spotlight & Giveaway at Passages to the Past

Tuesday, August 19
Review at Historical Fiction Obsession

Friday, August 22
Interview at Curling Up by the Fire

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Aloha to Jenna Jaxon and BELEAGUERED

Jenna Jaxon returns to SOS Aloha to chat about her new release, BELEAGUERED:

A Lot of Inspiration

I have read romance novels ever since I was a teenager, but never even thought of writing one for years. Several things came together to inspire me to write Time Enough to Love, published in installments as Betrothal, Betrayal, and Beleaguered, which I think goes to show that some things are just meant to be.

The romance books that I read as a teenager were The Wolf and the Dove and The Flame and the Flower by Kathleen Woodiwiss. I loved them because they were historical and they were lengthy. Over 600 pages. I love reading thick books because that means I have more time with the characters and I don’t have to go searching for new material quite so often. And after many years away from reading romances, in 2009 on a whim, I picked up Woodiwiss’s final novel, Everlasting and was captivated once more by the writing and the romance.

My reading of Everlasting came about six months after going on a gluten-free diet, at which time many people detoxing from gluten experience a rush of energy and creativity. So I finished this wonderful romance, set in the Middle Ages—which is my favorite time period—and I literally said out loud, “I bet I can write a novel like that.” And I sat down and started typing.

I knew I had to set it in the medieval period, a fascinating time of beauty and brutality. And the previous fall I had seen a History Channel episode on the Bubonic Plague. The program fascinated me—as a history major I’d actually done some research on the plague—so I paid a lot of attention to it. One segment especially caught my attention. It detailed the journey of Princess Joanna (sometimes called Joan) of England, daughter of King Edward III, on her way to Spain to marry Prince Pedro of Castile. On the way the princess stopped at the port town of Bordeaux (known for its wine) and the plague overtook the company there.

As I sat down to start writing my romance novel, this story of the princess and the plague came to mind and I began plotting a story, not of the princess’s romance, but of her courtiers, the men and women who accompanied her on her ill-fated journey. Taking Woodiwiss as my model, I proceeded to write for six months, finished my book on July 28 with a total of 187,000 words by the time I wrote “The End.”

I went on to write other novels and novellas, but my beloved medieval was always there in the back of my mind. I discovered it was too long to publish traditionally—even after I cut it down to 160,000 words—so I decided to self-publish it in three installments: Betrothal, Betrayal, and Beleaguered. Now that Beleaguered has released, I can relax a bit before going on with plans to continue with characters who have become family to me. The main characters’ story may be finished, but their family members have stories that I long to tell as well. I only hope I’ll be as inspired as I was with Time Enough to Love.

Jenna Jaxon is a multi-published author of historical and contemporary romance. She has been reading and writing historical romance since she was a teenager. A romantic herself, she has always loved a dark side to the genre, a twist, suspense, a surprise. She tries to incorporate all of these elements into her own stories. She lives in Virginia with her family and a small menagerie of pets. When not reading or writing, she indulges her passion for the theatre, working with local theatres as a director. She often feels she is directing her characters on their own private stage.

Jenna is a PAN member of Romance Writers of America as well as a member of Chesapeake Romance Writers. Her debut novel, Only Scandal Will Do, is the first in her House of Pleasure series, set in Georgian London. Her medieval novel, Time Enough to Love, is a Romeo & Juliet-esque tale, set at the time of the Black Death.She has equated her writing to an addiction to chocolate because once she starts she just can’t stop.

Learn more about Jenna and her books at 

jennajaxon.wordpress.com.

BELEAGUERED, Book 3 in the Time Enough for Love series:

When death holds sway in the world, can even the greatest love survive?

Finally in France, Alyse and Thomas return to their roles as courtiers to Princess Joanna. Their passion for one another continues to smolder hot and deep—until one fateful encounter changes everything.

During a formal banquet, Alyse must share an intimate dance with Geoffrey, her first love. His searing touch proves Alyse’s love and desire for him is as strong as when they first met. Tormented by this revelation, Alyse is bitterly torn between the love of her life and her love for her husband.

Into this agonizing situation, the disaster of the Black Death rears its head, decimating the princess’s retinue and threatening all their lives. Alyse, Thomas and Geoffrey must try to save the princess from the ravening disease but at a dire cost to themselves. With her world plunged into chaos, Alyse struggles with her feelings for both of the men she loves. But which love will survive?

Available from Smashwords and Amazon

Jenna is hosting a giveaway at this link.

Mahalo,

Kim in Baltimore

Aloha Spirit in Charm City

Get in the medieval spirit with Albannach from the Annapolish Irish Festival on my travel blog at this link.

Aloha to Sarah Barthel and MACKENZIE'S CROSS

On this day in in 1868, The Tokugawa Shogunate forces withdraw to Aizu to end the Battle of Utsunomiya Castle. Today's spotlighted author, Sarah Barthel, might appreciate this trivia:

Sarah Barthel was raised on a steady diet of old Hollywood musicals and classic literature. Nurturing her love of language, she learned French, Latin and Japanese. This led her to study in Paris and host a Japanese exchange student. She followed her passion to American University in Washington DC, where she studied British literature and history. Since then she has thrown herself into writing. She loves to find unique, and unexplored ideas in familiar settings. A member of the Society of Children's Writers and Illustrators, she currently lives in the Chicago suburbs with her husband, daughter and two crazy dogs.

Sarah Bartel is promoting her historical romance, MACKENZIE'S CROSS:

When Duke Kensington dies, how can a young kitchen maid stand up for what she believes and save her best friend? Mackenzie’s life has always been one of duty. However, in a land where even the Brotherhood of the Knights are becoming power hungry mongers, how can a young kitchen maid maintain her morals when tempted with all she’s never had? In the end, the truth is even more complicated than Mackenzie had ever imagined. Medieval Historical Fiction, Sweet, Christian, & Inspirational Romance from topazpublishingllc.com.

VIEW GOODREADS PAGE | VIEW AMAZON PAGE

I am giving away a "Medieval Romance" prize package to one randomly selected commenter.  To enter the giveaway,

1.  Leave a comment about Knights - do you have a favorite movie about them?

2.  Comments are open through Sunday, May 18, 10 pm in Baltimore.

3.  I'll post the winner on Monday, May May 19, assuming I survive RT.

Mahalo,

Kim in Baltimore

Aloha Spirit in Charm City

White Castle ... a very Medieval structure

Aloha to Jenna Jaxon and BETRAYAL

Downtown Abbey ended its fourth season with a tease of court life - the Grantham Family traveled to London for Lady Rose's presentation.  Indeed, scandal creeped into the plot - but it was the Granthams trying to prevent a scandal brewing from the Prince's indiscretions!  The English court has a long history of indiscretions ... and Jenna Jaxon gives a taste from Medieval England in BETRAYAL, Book 2 in her Time Enough To Love series ....

The worst betrayals come from within. 

After a night of passion with her betrothed, Sir Geoffrey Longford, Lady Alyse de Courcy is eagerly looking forward to her wedding. But when Geoffrey is forced to marry another, a heartbroken and possibly pregnant Alyse finds herself in her own private hell. She must either gamble with her reputation or marry someone she does not love.

A reputed connoisseur of women, Thomas, Lord Braeton, has dallied with many ladies of King Edward’s court, although he has favored none. However, as Geoffrey’s best friend, Thomas has sworn to serve and protect Alyse, an oath now sorely tested when he agrees to marry her—in name only—to guard her reputation. Yet, as they grow closer, and Thomas discovers Alyse’s sweet but spirited nature, he comes to desire a marriage in truth. Can he overcome her memory of Geoffrey or is Thomas doomed to burn with passion for a woman he can never possess?

Panoramic View of Windsor Castle
Released to Public Domain (link)
BETRAYAL opens in Windsor Castle

Betrayal can only happen if you love. - John le Carre

Jenna Jaxon's foray into the English Court reminds me of Showtime's THE TUDORS - the cable show offered beautiful costumes, enchanting music, and soap operatic court intrigue that rivaled Dallas, Dynasty, and the Housewives series.    Yet Jaxon accomplished the same, but two hundred years early, by relying upon her writing talents to deliver the same feeling that I was watching the action from within. 

Jaxon delivers an authentic setting of a time of unquestioned loyalty to the crown, arranged marriages, and honor above all.   Alyse drew me into her world, from praying in the chapel, attending to the princess, and privately grieving the loss of her fiance.  It was only natural for Alyse to question Geoffrey's offer and resist his charms.  BETRAYAL is a sweet story of "love against the odds" in a time when love didn't factor into arranged marriages that suited the king.   

When I started BETRAYAL, I quickly understood Alyse's back story.  I assumed this was a stand alone novel; I was surprised by the cliff hanger.   Upon further investigation, I now realize that BETRAYAL is a continuation of BETROTHAL.   I don't feel that jumping into BETRAYAL, without reading BETROTHAL, impeded my enjoyment of it.   For readers who enjoy Medieval Romance, I recommend starting with BETROTHAL to savor the continuing story of BETRAYAL. 

I am a fan of Medieval castles ....

 

I received an e-ARC from the author for an honest review.   I am giving away a e-copy of BETROTHAL (Book 1) to one randomly selected commenter.  To enter the giveaway,

1.  Leave a comment about prime time dramas - did you watch Dallas (80s version)? Dallas (current version on TNT)? Dynasty?  The Tudors?  Housewives?  or any other show that is over the top?

I have been sucked back into the world of Dallas on TNT.

2.  This giveaway is open to all readers.

3.  Comments are open through Saturday, March 1, 10 pm in Baltimore.  I'll post the winner on Sunday, March 2.

Mahalo,

Kim in Baltimore

Aloha Spirit in Charm City

To learn more about Jenna and her books, check jennajaxon.wordpress.com.