Gwendalyn’s Books

Hello and welcome to my stop on The Sign Of Blood By Laurence O’Bryan,

Hosted By The Coffee Pot Book Club.

 #HistoricalFiction #AncientRome #TheSignoftheBlood #CoffeePotBookClub

The Sign of the Blood

By Laurence O’Bryan 

(A Dangerous Emperor, Book #1)

Publication date: 22nd November 2018

Publisher: Ardua

Print Length: 469 Pages

Genre: Historical Fiction

The first Christian emperor faces ruthless enemies on his journey to power.

Cool mist settles over the legion advancing toward the Persian army. Constantine, the son of an emperor, the Roman officer leading the attack, tells his men to halt – something is wrong.

Before long, the battle rages. He frees a slave named Juliana. She is half Persian and half Roman. As they are pursued to Britannia over land and sea, he learns that she can see the future – his future.

It is 306A.D., long before Constantine the Great converted to Christianity and became the first Christian emperor.

To ensure he survives, he must eliminate his enemies. But who must die first? The priestess, Sybellina, who joined them in Rome and practices dark and seductive magic? Or the brutal legion commanders who surround his father? Or, as Juliana suspects, are those who want him dead even closer?

A gripping historical novel about Constantine’s bloody rise to power, the woman who helped him, and the real reason he supported a persecuted Christian minority, a decision which changed the world into the one we know. 

Praise for The Sign of the Blood

“Exciting and original.” – SJA Turney, author of Praetorian.

“It is an enthralling story from start to finish…” The Coffee Pot Book Club

Buy Links:

Amazon

This book was received from the Author, and Publisher, in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.

The Sign of The Blood by Laurence O’Bryan, is a riveting fictionalization tale of the iconic Constantine the Great’s rise to power. The author catapults you into the cruel, and harsh world of 297 A.D. to 306 A.D. This is an era where Christianity moved forward from a persecuted radical religion, to that in becoming the most powerful influencer religion in the Roman Empire.

With uniquely-descriptive prose, O’Bryan, deftly weaves threads of historical characters and vibrant fictional, to create a colourful fabric affording the reader, unique insights to the stunning life of Constantine and a fierce in-slaved girlthat comes from beyond Hadrian’s Wall.

A fabulous representation to storyline, the author delivers a compelling, intriguing novel. I was completely engaged with its absolutely fantastic characters that totally captivated and fascinated me. The strength of this novel handsdown is the author’s fabulous characterizations and precision details. Rich battle scenes of war and blood to lustful carnage. Easy to follow narration that held my attention from the very first page until the last. I absolutely loved the characters and how realistic they were given the time period.

This is a treasure of book to buy and keep in your library. My first read, from this highly talented author, I am excited to read more work from the author Laurence O’Bryan

Laurence O’Bryan

I spent twenty years studying Roman history and reading every book about Constantine the Great I could find. I also visited numerous sites where my Roman series is set, including in London, where I lived for ten years, Jerusalem, Rome, Trier, York, Nicomedia and Istanbul.

The first novel in the series, The Sign of The Blood, is about the rise to power of Constantine the Great, the women who helped him, and the others who wanted him dead.

The Road to The Bridge, the second novel in the series, is about the lead up to the battle of the Milvian Bridge in 312 A.D. and how Constantine the Great lured Maxentius, his rival emperor, out of Rome.

The third novel in the series, The Cursed City, is about the dedication of New Rone, later to be called Constantinople, and how Constantine fell out with his wife, Fausta, and his son Crispus, and what he had to do to survive.

To join the mailing list and receive news of these books use this link: http://bit.ly/TSOTBseries

There are five novels in the puzzle series, The Istanbul Puzzle, The Jerusalem Puzzle, The Manhattan Puzzle, The Nuremberg Puzzle and The Cairo Puzzle.

There is a story link from The Istanbul Puzzle to The Cursed City.

My books have:
* Achieved #1 ranking on Amazon,
* Been translated into 10 languages.

My roots go back to a small estate deep in the Mountains of Mourne near the Silent Valley, in County Down, Northern Ireland.

I went to school in Dublin, drank way too much, studied English and history, then business, then IT at Oxford University.

My research has taken me all over the world, from San Francisco to deep in the Muslim world. There are secrets everywhere. I enjoy writing about them. I hope you enjoy reading about them.

Social Media Links:

Connect with Laurence:

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Hello and welcome to my stop on The Potential for Love: A Regency Novel

By Catherine Kullmann

Hosted by The Coffee Pot Book Club

@CKullmannAuthor @maryanneyarde

 #ThePotentialforLove #RegencyRomance #CoffeePotBookClub



The Potential for Love: A Regency Novel

By Catherine Kullmann

1816

For over six years, Thomas Ferraunt’s thoughts have been of war. Newly returned to England from occupied Paris, he must ask himself what his place is in this new world and what he wants from it. More and more, his thoughts turn to Arabella Malvin, but would Lord Malvin agree to such a mismatch for his daughter, especially when she is being courted by Lord Henry Danlow?

About to embark on her fourth Season, Arabella is tired of the life of a debutante, waiting in the wings for her real life to begin. She is ready to marry. But which of her suitors has the potential for love and who will agree to the type of marriage she wants?

As she struggles to make her choice, she is faced with danger from an unexpected quarter while Thomas is stunned by a new challenge. Will these events bring them together or drive them apart?

Where to buy

We are celebrating the release of the special hardback edition of The Potential for Love during this tour. With a beautiful dust jacket over an elegant laminated cover, it will enhance any library and is the perfect gift for lovers of historical women’s fiction and historical romance.

The Potential for Love is also available in Paperback and as eBook and is free to read with Kindle Unlimited subscription.

Amazon

Waterstones

Barnes and Noble

Amazon Kindle

Waterstones (Paperback)

Barnes and Noble (Paperback)

This book was received from the Author, and Publisher, in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.

The Potential for Love is written in classical traditional Regency style romance.

Arabella Malvin’s family has suffered the loss of her brother at war. When Major Thomas Ferraunt, just recently returned from war, comes to call on the Malvins to relay some memorable moments about the their son. Arabella {Bella} Malvin, finds herself drawn to the local Rector’s Son.

Arabella is on her forth season in London, tried of the round of endless balls, she is eager for her life to began. She catches the eye of several would be suitors. One in particular, is the wealthy titled Lord Henry Danlow. Who is seeking a wife that would be the the perfect lady to mold to his specifications.

In a world where social standing is everything and your choice for a spouse is determined by title and linage. This historical fiction has a love triangle, with villainous dangers that will have flipping through the pages.

I really appreciate the little remembrance of Georgette Heyer’s style writing or Austen’s. With its satire and plight of young woman and the social restrictions of the Ton. The authors is wonderful at giving rich meticulous detail, that places the reader in the front row, of this stunning book. I have to say that I inhaled this one. It was beautifully executed novel. I was completely engaged with the characters as they felt real and three dimensional. The plot line flows and the narration is impeccable.

This is my first book by this talented author. I am definitely going to seek out and read more from her.

I highly recommend this book for those who love gorgeous details, and regency dramas.

Excerpt

From Chapter ThreePlaying Pope Joan

““Now what have you chosen for us, Arabella?” Lord Malvin enquired after Miss Halworth had smilingly acknowledged her applause and compliments and resumed her seat.

“I must beg to be excused, sir. I am not in good voice today, I fear.”

“Then you’ll play something for us. It’s been too long since we had music in the evenings.”

Thomas thought he heard her sigh but she removed her gloves obediently and went to leaf through the sheets of music in the slatted Canterbury beside the pianoforte. Once seated at the instrument, she squared her shoulders as if steeling herself for an ordeal and began to play. He didn’t recognise the piece, Mozart, he thought, but it did not seem too difficult, yet she bit her lip as if she had to concentrate. Once she blinked rapidly and brushed at her eye as if something irritated it. She paused for a moment and then broke into a strident, aggressive melody alla Turca, the sharp rhythm and slashing staccato a reminder that this style of music was inspired by the Sultan’s Janissary bands that had once played before the gates of Vienna. When she got to the end, she closed the lid of the instrument firmly, bowed briefly and returned to her seat beside him. She was trembling and her eyes brimmed with unshed tears. He watched, horrified, as she struggled to contain them.

No-one else seemed to have noticed. She took a deep breath, pressed her lips firmly together and swallowed, her hands clenched on her gloves. A teardrop stole down her cheek and she hastily knuckled it away. There was a second door at the end of the room. If he could get her down there, she could leave the room discreetly.

He indicated the portrait that hung on the far wall. “I should like a closer look at the background of that painting, Miss Malvin. Will you show it to me?”

She nodded and accepted his hand to help her rise. Her hand shook and he tucked it into the crook of his arm with a comforting clasp.

Another tear threatened to overflow. He ignored it and, as they slowly paced down the long room, began to describe how the French had protested against the removal of looted paintings from the Louvre. “But Wellington held firm. He even had the four bronze horses of St Mark taken down from the Arc de Triomphe and returned to Venice. Although the Venetians did not acquire them honestly either—they were part of their plunder from Constantinople during the crusades. Ah, here we are. It’s very fine, indeed. I shall take a step behind you, so as to better judge the perspective.” He stood back and to the right, screening her from the others.

She cast him a grateful look through wet eyelashes before dabbing at her eyes with a little lace-trimmed handkerchief, then discreetly blew her nose. “That’s better.” She smiled weakly. “Thank you for rescuing me. It is very foolish, but since Arthur was killed, music tends to make me weep. The tears just come—I cannot stop them.”

“It is because music can unlock what is hidden away in our heart,” he said sympathetically. “As time passes, you will find it easier. Would you prefer to slip away until you have recovered your composure?”

“No. I’ll do now.” She squared her shoulders and pointed to the painting. “Here you see my grandfather posed rather pompously against the ruins of Rome, his elbow propped casually on a convenient antique altar. I have seen similar works in other families; I suspect the artists kept a supply of half-finished canvases, ready for the next young Englishman who wanted to bring back proof of his grand tour. He has a look of Arthur, don’t you think?”

“Provided one removes the wig,” he agreed tactfully He couldn’t see the resemblance himself, but if it pleased her to think so—

“My mother insisted on having his likeness taken when he was at home after Vittoria. He grumbled, of course, but now we are so glad to have it. It hangs in her sitting-room.” She looked up at him. “It helps to talk normally about him. We couldn’t before—Mamma became so distressed.”

Arabella, Ferraunt, should we play Pope Joan or speculation?” Matthew called down the room.

“Pope Joan,” Miss Malvin said. “I hate speculation. Who else is playing?”

“Everyone except Admiral and Lady Halworth who have challenged the rector and Papa to a game of whist.”

“That makes us ten. Shall we draw for partners?” Mrs Malvin asked as she placed an ornate, round, staking board in the middle of the table. “A hand of four cards is really too small to play properly. Matrimony and intrigue will get out of hand.”

Without waiting for a reply, she rapidly created five pairs of cards, shuffled them and spread them into a fan for each player to take one.

I’ve never before played a game that involved ‘matrimony’ and ‘intrigue’,” Thomas remarked.

“They are both winning combinations,” Miss Malvin replied, her eyes dancing. “The first is when you play the queen and king of trumps in succession; the second is if you play the knave and queen.”

“And supposing your neighbour has the king to your queen?”

“Then we share the matrimony pool.”

“All four? I thought we were playing Pope Joan, not the Grand Turk!” He flipped over his card. “Five of hearts. And you?”

She displayed the five of diamonds.

“Excellent. I shall rely on you to advise me,” He pulled out a chair for her and took the one beside it. “How is this played?” he asked as he accepted a pile of ivory fish from Mrs Malvin. “What are the stakes?”

“And Pope clears all.” Mrs Ferraunt triumphantly put down the nine of diamonds and helped herself to the counters for ‘pope’ and ‘game’.

“I think the rectory has an unfair advantage,” Julian Malvin protested as he shuffled the cards before the new deal. “That is your second pope, ma’am and I don’t know how many matrimonies you and my brother have celebrated this evening.”

“Pure luck,” she said complacently.

Thomas rarely played cards. Even now, his income was not so great that he could comfortably afford to lose a large sum and in his early days in the regiment, where an ensign’s pay had barely covered his living expenses, he had not been prepared to risk the allowance his father made him on top of it. It had been simpler to say he did not gamble. Some of his more well-to-do fellows had sneered at him as the ‘parson’s son,’ but he had simply replied, ‘And proud to be so, sir’.

This was different. While the game was important, it was the company that mattered; the jokes and quips tossed across the table, the teasing when a pair took matrimony or Lady Malvin’s smug look when she emptied her hand by laying down one after another five clubs so that she and Miss Lambton took the game. And he could lean over the shoulder of a pretty girl and whisper confidentially in her ear as he advised her which suit to lead next. She obligingly followed his instructions although she knew the game far better than he did. She smelt of roses and sunshine, somehow, of lazy summer days—English summer, of course, with its dappled shade and countless blossoms, not the baking, parched heat of Spain.

“Hearts, then spades,” he murmured and she obediently placed the four of hearts in front of her, followed by the five and six. Spades were trumps and they held knave and queen. She could have played them first—there was nothing more provoking than to be prevented from playing such a combination—but the seven of hearts had already been played. This way she could dispose of five cards even if someone held the King.

“That’s a stop,” he announced when she put down the six. Now she could play her spades.

“Intrigue,” she said, laying down the Knave and Queen and Matthew pushed the staking board towards her. It was the first intrigue of the night and she smiled over her shoulder at Thomas as she scooped the counters from the compartment.

“What a pity we’re not playing for guineas.”

“I think you’ll find you’ve at most recouped your losses, Sis,” Matthew said dryly.

She sighed. “I suppose you’re right.”

“What sort of intrigue are you and Ferraunt plotting, Bella?” Mr Halworth asked with a grin.

Thomas stiffened but Miss Malvin only laughed.

“You surely don’t expect us to reveal all,” she retorted gaily. “We are better conspirators than that, are we not, Major.”

“As Lord Lansdowne has it, ‘’Tis the talk, and not the intrigue, that’s the crime’,” Miss Lambton put in.

“Aye, it’s better to hold your peace,” Julian Malvin agreed.

“But I shall speak now,” his wife declared, laying down the king of spades. “Matrimony and that’s the game.”

©Catherine Kullmann 2020

 Catherine Kullmann

I was born and brought up in Dublin and moved to Germany on my marriage in 1973. Before my marriage, I was an administrative officer at the Department of Finance in Dublin. I worked as attaché at the Irish Embassy in Bonn until my eldest son was born. Following a twelve-year stint as a full-time mother, I joined the New Zealand Embassy in Bonn, where I was administration officer. My husband and I returned to Ireland in 1999 and in 2009, following a year’s treatment for breast cancer, I took early retirement from my position as Director of Administration and Human Resources at a large Dublin law firm.

I have always enjoyed writing, I love the fall of words, the shaping of an expressive phrase, the satisfaction when a sentence conveys my meaning exactly. I enjoy plotting and revel in the challenge of evoking a historic era for characters who behave authentically in their period while making their actions and decisions plausible and sympathetic to a modern reader. In addition, I am fanatical about language, especially using the right language as it would have been used during the period about which I am writing. But rewarding as all this craft is, there is nothing to match the moment when a book takes flight, when your characters suddenly determine the route of their journey.

The first quarter of the nineteenth century was one of the most significant periods of European and American history, a period whose events still resonate two hundred years later The Act of Union between Great Britain and Ireland of 1800, the Anglo-American war of 1812 and the final defeat of Napoleon at the Battle of Waterloo in 1815 all still shape our modern world. The aristocracy-led society that drove these events was already under attack from those who saw the need for social and political reform, while the industrial revolution saw the beginning of the transfer of wealth and ultimately power to those who knew how to exploit the new technologies.

I write historical fiction set against this background of off-stage wars, of women frequently left to fend for themselves in a patriarchal world where they have few or no rights but must make the best lives they can for themselves and their families. While real people sometimes have walk-on parts, the protagonists and their stories are pure fiction. As well as meeting their personal challenges, they must also cope with external events and the constraints imposed by society. The main story arc is romantic. I am particularly interested in what happens after the first happy end—how life goes on around the protagonists and sometimes catches up with them. 

Social Media Links:

Website • Twitter • Goodreads.

Hello Friends,

Today I Have An Excerpt Of The Author’s, Marie McPherson,

The Last Blast of the Trumpet, which Is Book 3, Of The Knox Trilogy.

@Scotscriever @maryanneyarde @PenmorePress1

#HistoricalFiction #TheLastBlastoftheTrumpet #CoffeePotBookClub #PenmorePress

The Last Blast of the Trumpet

(Book 3 of the Knox Trilogy) 

By Marie Macpherson

Publication Date: 24 August 2020

Publisher: Penmore Press

Series: The Knox Trilogy

Print Length: 409 Pages

Genre: Historical Fiction / Biographical Fiction

Conflict, Chaos and Corruption in Reformation Scotland.

He wants to reform Scotland, but his enemies will stop at nothing to prevent him. 

Scotland 1559: Fiery reformer John Knox returns to a Scotland on the brink of civil war. Victorious, he feels confident of his place leading the reform until the charismatic young widow, Mary Queen of Scots returns to claim her throne. She challenges his position and initiates a ferocious battle of wills as they strive to win the hearts and minds of the Scots. But the treachery and jealousy that surrounds them both as they make critical choices in their public and private lives has dangerous consequences that neither of them can imagine.

In this final instalment of the trilogy of the fiery reformer John Knox, Macpherson tells the story of a man and a queen at one of the most critical phases of Scottish history.

Praise for The Last Blast of the Trumpet

 ‘Macpherson has done for Knox what Hilary Mantel did for Cromwell.’

Scottish Field

‘This richly realized portrait of a complex man in extraordinary times is historical fiction at its finest.’

 Linda Porter, author of Crown of Thistles; Katherine the Queen, Royal Renegades; Mistresses: Sex and Scandal at the Court of Charles II

 ‘Marie Macpherson has once again given us a cavalcade of flesh and blood characters living the early days of the Scottish Reformation in a complex tale told with economy and wit.’

 S.G. MacLean, author of The Seeker Series and Alexander Seaton mysteries

Buy Links:

Amazon UK • Amazon US • Barnes and Noble

The Last Blast of the Trumpet

Excerpt 1

Part 1 Chapter One

The Wrath of the People

The Parish Church of the Holy Cross of St John the Baptist, Perth, 11 May 1559

‘John Knox has come.’ 

The words took flight, leaping from lip to lip, echoing round the kirk, ringing to the rafters, and striking terror into his soul. The seething mass of humanity surged forward only to be shoved back by metal-clad men-at-arms. Knox stood rooted to the threshold. The kirk was crammed full: he hadn’t expected such a crowd nor such a clamour. Panic gripped his throat and crushed his lungs. 

An elbow nudged him and a voice muttered in his ear, ‘The folk have tramped from all the airts to show their support for their preachers and to await your guidance, master.’

Swallowing deeply, Knox steeled himself to follow in the wake of Sir Patrick Lyndsay’s lean, lofty figure cutting a swathe through the swarm that parted like the Red Sea before Moses. The biblical comparison inspired him. In the midst of the throng, folk stood on tiptoe, craning their necks to catch sight of him; those at the front stretched out their hands. Faces rough-hewn by the unforgiving Scottish climate glowed with expectation and excitement. His ain folk, he thought: humble hinds and herdsmen in fusty sheepskin blankets, ploughmen and draymen in worsted tunics jostled cheek by jowl with masons and skinners in worn leather jerkins and aprons, in stark contrast to the docile, dutiful gentry of his Geneva brethren. More like the Berwick horde before he’d tamed them, Knox reminded himself. He should not fear this unruly flock but seek to win them over. 

‘Is thon the mighty preacher everyone’s talking about?’ a voice piped up. ‘He’s gey wee.’

Lyndsay grabbed the offender by the throat. ‘Short in stature he may be, but his voice makes the heart dirl like thunder. Afore I rip out your blasphemous tongue, shift your fat arse and let him pass.’

Cowed, the man slunk away while the rest of the crowd fell silent. Patrick, Master of Lyndsay, a blunt and fierce soldier, was not a man to be crossed. 

‘Never fash, Preacher Knox, my men-at-arms will guard the kirk doors lest the priors of Perth dare to thwart your sermon. And I’ll no shrink from turning them loose on the rabble if trouble breaks out.’

Rather than inspire confidence, the warrior’s words filled Knox with foreboding. ‘I want no violence used on the brethren. We need to show that we come in peace.’ 

Lyndsay’s hefty shoulders lifted in a non-committal shrug before he stomped off down the nave. Knox headed for the foot of the pulpit where he was greatly cheered to see a well-kent face amongst the group.

John Willock, the minister who had married him to his beloved Marjory, now clasped him to his broad chest. ‘We give thanks that the Lord has sent you here in our hour of need to stand fast with our brothers in Christ,’ he said and introduced his fellow preachers. John Christison was another former friar, while Paul Methven, a baker, and William Harlaw, a tailor, were self-educated guildsmen who had taken up the cause. ‘All good men and true.’

‘Not in the eyes of Marie de Guise who’s charged us with sedition and heresy,’ Methven growled. ‘Her daughter’s marriage to the French dauphin has emboldened the French sow and she’s cracking the whip.’ The blunt-spoken baker clenched fists swollen from constant kneading. ‘The regent has broken her promise to permit us to practise our faith. Just before Easter she commanded everyone to attend mass, make confession in a priest’s lug and take the sacrament on the tongue.’

‘It’s true. With an eye on the Vatican’s support, the regent has taken to heart the papal dogma of extra ecclesiam nulla salus,’ John Christison added.

Knox gave a nod of understanding. ‘Outside the Roman Church there is no salvation. Paul IV is a severe and unbending prelate. Thon Antichrist vowed that even if his own father were a heretic, he’d gather the wood to burn him.’

Willock clasped Knox’s hand. ‘Now’s the time to break from the fetters of Rome, brother. Scotland is on the brink of civil strife and we’re in dire need of a skipper to take the helm.’

‘What about thon Lords of the Congregation?’ Knox asked. The signatories to the bond had led him a merry dance over the past few years. He’d lost count of the number of times they had called him back to Scotland, assuring him the time was ripe to return. After several false starts and delays in Dieppe, he’d finally arrived home and, with barely time to regain his land legs, he’d been whisked into the midst of the maelstrom.

‘Many of the lords are biding their time, waiting to see which way the die falls,’ Willock replied. ‘The regent still has the support of her stepson, Lord James Stewart, the Earl of Argyll as well as the Hamiltons. Her commander-in-chief, Châtelherault, is one of those who benefits from a lavish French pension.’ 

Knox gave a contemptuous snort. ‘So, the glister of the profit has blinded their eyes. It was ever thus.’ 

‘Nevertheless, the Ayrshire lords, including Glencairn and Ochiltree, have aye stood firm.’ 

‘Never mind thon band of noble ne’er-do-weils,’ Methven broke in. ‘Craftsmen and guildsmen like us champion the poor and needy who’re clamouring for reform. It’s not only the roasting of our martyr, Pastor Milne, that has provoked our brethren but your warning call, Mr Knox. The folk have taken to heart your words.’ 

Baffled, Knox asked, ‘What do you mean?’ 

‘Do you no mind? The Beggars’ Summons posted on the gate of every friary and monastery throughout the land on the first of January?’ Methven handed him a tattered scrap of paper.

Knox quickly scanned the summons. Written on behalf of the blind, the crooked, the bedridden, widows and orphans and all other poor folk, it ordered the flocks of friars to hand over their ill-gotten gains and quit their religious houses by Whitsun. Or else be forced out on Flitting Friday, the 12th day of May.

Knox looked up. ‘But that’s tomorrow. Who’s going to evict them?’ The eyes of all gazing upon him gave the answer. 

Lyndsay stepped forward. ‘The faithful await a signal from you, master.’

Knox felt trapped, the knot in his stomach tightened. Everyone believed he’d written this anonymous warning and looked to him for the next step. He should speak the truth but his thrapple felt so dry he doubted he could utter a sound. The same fear that had seized him before his first sermon at St Andrews now threatened to strangle him into silence. His back throbbed from injuries sustained in the galleys, firing tentacles of pain up the back of his neck and into the base of the skull. The words from Ezekiel came unbidden into his mind: I will make your tongue cleave to the roof of your mouth so that you will be dumb and unable to rebuke them, for they are a rebellious people.

Knox had come home expecting to head a religious reformation not lead troops into battle. 

Marie Macpherson

Scottish writer Marie Macpherson grew up in Musselburgh on the site of the Battle of Pinkie and within sight of Fa’sideCastle where tales and legends haunted her imagination. She left the Honest Toun to study Russian at Strathclyde University and spent a year in the former Soviet Union to research her PhD thesis on the 19th century Russian writer Mikhail Lermontov, said to be descended from the Scottish poet and seer, Thomas the Rhymer. Though travelled widely, teaching languages and literature from Madrid to Moscow, she has never lost her enthusiasm for the rich history and culture of her native Scotland.

Writing historical fiction combines her academic’s love of research with a passion for storytelling. Exploring the personal relationships and often hidden motivations of historical characters drives her curiosity.

The Knox Trilogy is a fictional biography of the fiery reformer, John Knox, set during the 16th century Scottish Reformation. Prizes and awards include the Martha Hamilton Prize for Creative Writing from Edinburgh University and Writer of the Year 2011 awarded by Tyne & Esk Writers. She is a member of the Historical Writers’ Association (HWA), the Historical Novel Society (HNS) and the Society of Authors (SoA).

Connect with Marie:

Website • Twitter • Facebook • Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/scotscriever/https://www.penmorepress.com/project/marie-macpherson/

Today I’m excited to participate in the Creative Blog Tour for Disenchanted by Brianna Sugalski! Disenchanted is the first book in a YA Dark Fantasy/Romance that was released on March 3rd, 2020 from The Parliament House

@petit.beignet @mtmctours

THANK YOU TO MTMC TOURS FOR HAVING ME!

Title: Disenchanted

Author: Brianna Sugalski

Series: Disenchanted Series #1

Publisher: Parliament House Press

Publishing Date: March 3, 2020
Genres: YA Dark Fantasy

Purchase a copy: 

Amazon | B&N | Indiebound | Book Depository

Add on Goodreads

A Breton princess at the peak of the French Renaissance, Lilac lives prisoner in her parents’ castle after a wicked secret is revealed on the eve of her tenth birthday soirée. Years later, her coronation ceremony looms, and between the riotous townsfolk and scheming nobleman bent on snatching the throne, Lilac prepares for the worst…

Until a mysterious letter arrives from The Witch of Lupine Grotto, detailing a curious offer to cure her darkness forever. Lilac begrudgingly trades her coronet for a cloak and ventures into the forest Brocéliande in pursuit of the impious enchantress at the edge of town. With only the protection of an inherited dagger-and, unsolicited help of the sardonic stranger who inserts himself on her quest-she must traverse Brocèliande and return in time to claim her rightful position as sovereign monarch.

This is the story of a cursed princess,

A crestfallen killer,

The town that wants them to burn,

And the witch that can save them both.

This book was received from the Author, and Publisher, in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.

This book had me hooked from start to finish – I literally couldn’t put it down. The plot is so unique and engrossing, I found myself in a constant state of curiosity as the fantasy world building was phenomenal. Fairies, vampires, curses and a runaway princess, I couldn’t ask for anything more.

Lilac, is the main POV’s and she embarks on a dangerous quest. Brianna Sugalski throws right into a beautiful, vivid and established world with fully fleshed out characters. I truly enjoyed this fabulous book.

Sugalski, cleverly sets the reader up to so, so typical a princess journey, meets a swoon worthy stranger… then romance.. wait, Stop, it’s definitely more than that!,

Sexy elusive Garin, is enough to keep you flipping those pages, because there is definitely more than meets the eye.

Engaging dialogue, wonderful characters and a immersive tale!

This is one darkish ya fantasy that will sure hook your attention!

With an education in Mass Communication–and an engrossment in all that is curious and bewitching–Brianna Sugalski is an author and blog editor at the Parliament House Press.

The Filipino-American author was born and raised on the island of Oahu in Hawaii, but travels the country every few years with her husband and two children. She admires the luminaries of the Victorian Era; growing up reading period literature, folklore, and fables has inspired her to paint vibrant settings of nature and narratives that readers will hopefully enjoy.

Ultimately, she aspires to make her own readers laugh, to challenge their perspectives on society and systemic prejudice, and to help them discover the magical meaning of their own powers within.

Website | Twitter | Amazon | Instagram

INTL Tour-wide Giveaway!

Enter the rafflecopter below for a chance to win a book of your choice from Book Depository (up to $22 USD) + an ebook of Disenchanted!

Link to Rafflecopter: http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/2aeeb25b76/?

a Rafflecopter giveawayhttps://widget-prime.rafflecopter.com/launch.js

Hello Wicked Babes;

I am so excited to have been one of many wonderful Bloggers taking part in the A Golden Fury by Samantha Cohoe.

Thank you @tbrbeyondtours

@samanthacohoe! Thank you @wednesdaybooks for my gorgeous arc. 

A Golden Fury by Samantha Cohoe

Genre: Young Adult Fantasy

Release Date: October 13, 2020

Published by: Wednesday Books

Find it: Amazon, B&N, Book Depository, Indigo

Synopsis

In her debut novel A Golden Fury, Samantha Cohoe weaves a story of magic and danger, where the streets of Oxford and London come to life, and the curse of the Philosopher’s Stone will haunt you long after the final chapter.

Thea Hope longs to be an alchemist out of the shadow of her famous mother. The two of them are close to creating the legendary Philosopher’s Stone—whose properties include immortality and can turn any metal into gold—but just when the promise of the Stone’s riches is in their grasp, Thea’s mother destroys the Stone in a sudden fit of violent madness.

While combing through her mother’s notes, Thea learns that there’s a curse on the Stone that causes anyone who tries to make it to lose their sanity. With the threat of the French Revolution looming, Thea is sent to Oxford for her safety, to live with the father who doesn’t know she exists. But in Oxford, there are alchemists after the Stone who don’t believe Thea’s warning about the curse—instead, they’ll stop at nothing to steal Thea’s knowledge of how to create the Stone.

But Thea can only run for so long, and soon she will have to choose: create the Stone and sacrifice her sanity, or let the people she loves die.

Thank you @tbrbeyondtours & @samanthacohoe for having me on this tour!

Tour Schedule

Enter To Win This Amazing Giveaway

Giveaway (US Only):
One finished copy of A Golden Fury. US only! This giveaway ends on October 20th

👇🏻
.
Link: a Rafflecopter giveaway

This book was received from the Author, and Publisher, in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.

-All included quotes have been taken from an ARC and may not match the finished publication.

CAV MALEDICTIONEM ALCHEMISTATE

Beware The Alchemist Curse.

“No illness, no want, no death. The Philosopher’s Stone gave everything humankind wanted but did not believe we could have in this life”

“Men are always willing to believe in the stupidity of women”

-Samantha Cohoe, A Golden Fury

This  tale begins in Normandy, France 1792, which is a pivotal time for France, with the French Revolution. English born Thea Hop,longs to be an alchemist out of the shadow of her famous alchemist mother, Marguerite. On the verge of a historic formula breakthrough of the fabled the Philosopher’s Stone. Madness takes hold and

Thea’s mother destroys much of the lab and work. Seizing some of her mothers cryptic notes, she realizes how close her mother really was in her chemistry work.

With ever present radical French convention, Her mothers patron sends Theo to England to a Father she’s never met. Vellacott is Thea’s father, another alchemist and professor at Oxford.

This was a faced moving historical fiction that has rich magical realism. Lies and deceit, will have glued to these pages. To me the author did a fabulous job setting up the plot line. The pacing was perfect, allowing the reader to experience the full historical elements. The detail descriptions of the places, puts you front and center. The main POV’s is a strong heroine, who actions are wonderfully depicted for the time period. Her voice is strong, and I loved her! The sub characters were also well developed and three dimensional.

This was an exceptional book for me. The author did a phenomenal job in creating a stunning Historical Ya with Magical Realism. The romance was just enough not to have you loose focus on what the tale is really about.

I highly recommend this book to family and friends!

A little History 

21 September, a Proclamation Of Abolisabolish Of The Monarchy,

French convention goes into effect and the French first republic is established, effective the following day.

26 December the trial of Louis XVI of France begins.

Samantha Cohoe was raised in San Luis Obispo, California, where she enjoyed an idyllic childhood of beach trips, omnivorous reading, and writing stories brimming with adverbs. She attended Thomas Aquinas College, a Great Books college in California, and graduated with a BA in liberal arts. After studying Philosophical Theology at Yale Divinity School, she decided academia wasn’t for her.

In the midst of marriage, child-bearing, and the identity crisis that followed, she rediscovered her early love of writing and adverbs. In 2011, she moved with her family to Denver, where she currently divides her time between teaching Latin, mothering, writing, reading, and deleting adverbs.

Find her here: Website | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads

Hello and welcome to my stop on the stunning

THE PUPPETMASTER’S APPRENTICE Tour

Puppetmaster’s Apprentice
by Lisa DeSelm
Published by Page Street Kids
Releasing on October 13th, 2020
YA FICTION—Fantasy, Retelling

Book Depository

Amazon

Pinocchio meets Frankenstein in this dark fairy tale retelling where a young girl is commissioned to build an assassin for a dark-hearted tyrant.

Impressed by the work of the puppetmaster and his apprentice, Tavia’s ruler, The Margrave, has ordered dozens of life-size marionette soldiers to be sent to Wolfspire Hall. When the orders for more soldiers come in with increasingly urgent deadlines, the puppetmaster’s health suffers and Pirouette, his daughter and protégé, is left to build in his stead. But there is something far more twisted brewing at Wolfspire—the Margrave’s son wants Pirouette to create an assassin. And he wants her to give it life.

With Tavia teetering on the brink of war and her father dying in the dungeons, Pirouette has no choice but to accept. Racing against the rise of the next blue moon—the magic that will bring her creations to life—she can’t help but wonder, is she making a masterpiece…or a monster?

This book was received from the Author, and Publisher, in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.

The Puppetmaster’s Apprentice Review by Lisa DeSelm, is a beautiful and immersive fantasy is like no other. Sometimes you come across a book that leaves you in a state of mind.. where you say gosh I have to purchase this little treasure of a book in Hardback. No wait I have to have a-signed copy..

That is my feelings right now concerning this darkly fractured fairy tale. It’s that good!

Seriously why hasn’t this book getting more Pr ? I don’t understand why? I that there an insatiable amount of new releases for this October 2020. So maybe that’s the case.

But Guys you might want to really check this out!

As the story goes a renowned puppet maker living in Tavia…

Seven years ago Puppet Master Gephardt, was given an incredible opportunity.

Yes it was forbidden, with a ruling that was heralded far and wide against elemental spells. He was incredibly lonely and his wife died taking the only chance of ever having a child of his own.

The old, elemental spells were lost, their legacy mere whispered warnings from mothers’ lips. Or so the puppetmaster had thought.

Pirouette, was born from wood brought to life under the light of a blue moon.

These are the blue moon’s words,” the woman rasped.

“Take heed now, for there’s always a cost, and I’m not repeat myself.

“Bitter moon And solemn blue,

blood of earth and sap and dew,

Wake a second life anew”

Pirouette, was born from wood brought to life under the light of a blue moon.

Eighteen years later Pirouette has become her father’s apprentice, working alongside her father. Piro’s is also a standing member of the town’s Maker’s Guild. This is a tight nit group of apprentices and artisans that have become a sort of family for both Piro, and her father. In a series of events her father health deteriorates, this jeopardizes a large order of life-size wooden soldiers. Faced with the challenge to complete the order and keeping her secret beginnings from coming to light. Along with some evilness that is afoot with creating assassins.

Lisa DeSelm debut is stunning and truly a great tale. With seamless execution and and excellent heroine that you can root for. The sheer cleverness is what captivated me. The prose and style is reminiscent of a long ago fairy tale handed down from generations.

Piro’s also a member of the town’s Maker’s Guild, a group of artisans and apprentices that are friends and chosen family. As she and her father rush to complete a large order of life-size wooden soldiers for the Margrave, their territory’s ruler, her father’s health deteriorates, and Piro must complete his work or suffer dire consequences. In addition to intricate details and nuanced characters and relationships, DeSelm aptly seeds the plot with a wealth of themes, among them the cycle of life and death, the unease of loneliness, and the necessity of reliance on others. Ages 14–up. Agent: Laura Crockett, TriadaUS Literary

Lisa DeSelm debut novel eamless execution, you find yourself immersed within these remarkable pages.

The characters were thought out, three dimensional. aI found they were people I could connect to, and I cheered for.

Lisa DeSelm lives happily with her husband and two daughters in the wilds of suburban South Bend, Indiana. When she is not writing, you will find Lisa working as an art director and designer, most likely daydreaming with a cup of tea in hand. The Puppetmaster’s Apprentice is her first novel.

October 14th

Turn the Page Tours – Opening
Gwendalyn_Books – Blogger’s Choice
Mina the Fangirl – Blogger’s Choice

October 15th

Ya.Its.Lit – Blogger’s Choice
The Reading Chemist – Blogger’s Choice
Srbetler – Blogger’s Choice
Prutha_Reads – Blogger’s Choice

October 16th

Rampant_Reading – Blogger’s Choice
Simply Beccamee – Blogger’s Choice
Starlight Reads – Blogger’s Choice
Skygoddess1 – Blogger’s Choice

October 17th

The Urban Reader – Blogger’s Choice
Adventurous Bookworm – Blogger’s Choice
Leann Reads Books – Blogger’s Choice
Metaphors and Misc – Blogger’s Choice

October 18th

Lauren’s Boookshelf – Blogger’s Choice
Aprajput08 – Blogger’s Choice
Avni Reads – Blogger’s Choice

October 19th

The B00kreader – Blogger’s Choice
Popreads – Blogger’s Choice
Stacy Reads Books – Blogger’s Choice

October 20th

Words Buried Within Us – Blogger’s Choice
Wishful Endings – Blogger’s Choice
Muse of Dreams – Blogger’s Choice
Abronxlatinareads – Blogger’s Choice

Up for grabs during this bookstagram tour will be three (3) finished copies of The Puppetmaster’s Apprentice by Lisa DeSelm! To enter to win, follow along on the tour. This giveaway will begin on October 14th and end on October 20th. It will be open to US residents only.

Hello Lovelies,

Welcome to my stop on The Light at Wyndcliff by Sarah E. Ladd!

The Light at Wyndcliff
by Sarah E. Ladd

Publication Date: October 13, 2020
Thomas Nelson
Paperback & eBook; 352 Pages

Series: The Cornwall Novels, Book 3
Genre: Historical Romance/Regency/Christian

Set in 1820s Cornwall, this Regency romance evokes the captivating worlds and delicious dramas of Jane Austen, Daphne DuMaurier, and Winston Graham.

Raised on the sprawling and rugged Wyndcliff Estate near the dangerous coast of South Cornwall, Evelyn Bray lives with her grandfather, a once-wealthy man reduced to the post of steward. Evelyn is still grieving her father’s death and her mother’s abandonment when a passing ship is dashed against the rocks. The only survivors, a little girl and her injured mother, are rescued and brought to Wyndcliff Hall.

Liam Twethewey is just twenty-two when he inherits Wyndcliff Estate from his great uncle. His optimistic plans to open a china clay pit to employ the estate’s tenants meets unexpected resistance, and the rumors of smuggling and illegal activity challenge his new-found authority. Though wise beyond his years, young Liam quickly finds himself out of his depth in this land where long-held secrets and high-stakes agendas make no room for newcomers.

Brought together by troubling questions surrounding the shipwreck, Evelyn and Liam uncover even darker mysteries shrouding the estate. But as they untangle truths from deceptions, their loyalties separate them—and their budding love might not be strong enough to overcome the distance.

Amazon | Barnes and Noble | IndieBound

This book was received from the Author, and Publisher, in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.

The Light at Wyndclif

Sarah E. Ladd @sarahladdauthor

1820’s Cornwall

The third installment of Sarah Ladd’s Cornwall series

A dash of mystery and this regency romance is the perfect autumn read. It comes with a dark manor house, along with moody moors. Wyndcliff Estate is near the treacherous coast of South Cornwall.

Recently inherited Wyndcliff Hall, Liam Twethewey Wants to make his late great uncles vision a reality. By opening a china clay pit on the property the estate grounds could prove to be a lucrative opportunity.

Evelyn Bray is the granddaughter of the Wyndcliff’s steward, Rupert Bray. Still struggling with the personal lose of her father’s death and her mother’s abandonment.

When a situation presents itself and questions surrounding a shipwreck. Liam and Evelyn Bray are thrown together as the piece together truth from lies. Liam’s newfound authority will be threatened with hostile challenges, of smuggling and illegal activity. The pairs blossoming relationship will be tested when loyalties prove to be a driving force.

A gothic style regency with a lovely romance made for a nonstop read. Ladd’s narration and the beautiful imagery, captivated me. With three dimensional characters that were easy to fall in love with. The mystery and suspense held attention as I enjoyed the beautiful Cornwell setting.

This book is apart of a series, but it can be enjoyed as a standalone.

Sarah E. Ladd has always loved the Regency period — the clothes, the music, the literature and the art. A college trip to England and Scotland confirmed her interest in the time period and gave her idea of what life would’ve looked like in era. It wasn’t until 2010 that Ladd began writing seriously. Shortly after, Ladd released the first book in the Whispers on the Moors series. Book one of the series, The Heiress of Winterwood, was the recipient of the 2011 ACFW Genesis Award for historical romance. Ladd also has more than ten years of marketing experience. She holds degrees in public relations and marketing and lives in Indiana with her family and spunky Golden Retriever.

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | Instagram | BookBub | Goodreads

Blog Tour Schedule

Tuesday, October 13
Review at Hallie Reads
Feature at Momfluenster

Wednesday, October 14
Review at McCombs on Main
Review at Gwendalyn’s Books
Review at Probably at the Library

Thursday, October 15
Review at Jessica Belmont

Friday, October 16
Review at Bitch Bookshelf
Review & Excerpt at Bookworlder
Review at View from the Birdhouse

Sunday, October 18
Review at Jorie Loves a Story
Review at WTF Are You Reading?

Monday, October 19
Review at Book Bustle

Hello Historical Fiction Lovers

Today I have a very special book to share with you

His Castilian Hawk

(The Castilian Saga, Book 1)

By Anna Belfrage

@abelfrageauthor @maryanneyarde

 #newrelease #medieval #HistoricalFiction #HisCastilianHawk #CoffeePotBookClub

His Castilian Hawk

(The Castilian Saga, Book 1)

By Anna Belfrage

Publication Date: September 28, 2020

Publisher: Matador (paperback) & Timelight Press (ebook)

Page Length: 396 pages (paperback) 335 pages (ebook)

Genre: Historical Fiction

Buy Links:

Amazon

For bastard-born Robert FitzStephan, being given Eleanor d’Outremer in marriage is an honour. For Eleanor, this forced wedding is anything but a fairy tale. 

Robert FitzStephan has served Edward Longshanks loyally since the age of twelve. Now he is riding with his king to once and for all bring Wales under English control. 

Eleanor d’Outremer—Noor to family—lost her Castilian mother as a child and is left entirely alone when her father and brother are killed. When ordered to wed the unknown Robert FitzStephan, she has no choice but to comply. 

Two strangers in a marriage bed is not easy. Things are further complicated by Noor’s blood-ties to the Welsh princes and by covetous Edith who has warmed Robert’s bed for years. 

Robert’s new wife may be young and innocent, but he is soon to discover that not only is she spirited and proud, she is also brave. Because when Wales lies gasping and Edward I exacts terrible justice on the last prince and his children, Noor is determined to save at least one member of the House of Aberffraw from the English king.

Will years of ingrained service have Robert standing with his king or will he follow his heart and protect his wife, his beautiful and fierce Castilian hawk?

This book was received from the Author, and Publisher, in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.

His Castillan Hawk
The Castilian Saga, Book 1
Anna Belfrage

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

His Castillan Hawk,  is an exceptional first installment in a new historical fiction series by the very talented Anna Belfrage.

The story is set in the late 13th century during the reign of the ruthless Edward I. Known as, Longshanks. Wales is almost at its knees with the crushing brute force of Edward l. With the fall of the Welsh prince Llewelyn, it’s only a matter of time that his brother, Dafdd ap Grufffydd the oathbreaker is obliterated. This would complete the fall of the last in the House of Aberffraw.

Robert FitzStephen, an illegitimate son of a nobleman, who has been steadfast man-at-arms to Edward l. Robert had no intention of marrying, not until the King gave him the young heiress born Eleanor d’Outremer {Noor}. She comes with extensive lads and a keep. Her relationship to Edward’s Castillan queen, and that to the Welsh royal family is only going to complicate things. The death of her father and brother she a captivating prize for anyone.

In a world where loyalty is tested, as King Edward doesn’t allow for anything except complete submission. Noor and Robert’s marriage will come to be tested over and over. Along with with political loyalties there is Robert’s long standing mistress, the fiery fair-haired Edith. She may prove to be more than a nuisance, as doesn’t want to relinquish her hold on Robert.

Anna Belfrage is one of the few writers that is able to balance rich tidbits of political details along with a compelling romantic storyline. This helps the reader feel invested in time period. We see the dynamics of English king along with the people of Wales, that Edward ultimately conquers.

The world building is luscious, Belfrage ability to transport the reader into this turbulent time period was incredible. Character development and complex relationships, and the setting and this medieval era are brought to life with unique details. The battle scenes were wonderful depicted and realistic. blood and gore, gave you the feeling that you were alongside Robert as they subdued the opposition.

I was on the edge of my seat with this riveting and intensely entertaining plot line. The authors seamless narration is impeccable making this book a fast read one that I completely inhaled. Once again Anna Belfrage mastered the art of brilliant narration.

A book I highly recommend this book to family and friends. I am excited to read the next installment in this stunning series.

Anna Belfrage

Had Anna been allowed to choose, she’d have become a time-traveller. As this was impossible, she became a financial professional with two absorbing interests: history and writing. Anna has authored the acclaimed time travelling series The Graham Saga, set in 17th century Scotland and Maryland, as well as the equally acclaimed medieval series The King’s Greatest Enemy which is set in 14th century England.  

More recently, Anna has published The Wanderer, a fast-paced contemporary romantic suspense trilogy with paranormal and time-slip ingredients. While she loved stepping out of her comfort zone (and will likely do so again )she is delighted to be back in medieval times in her September 2020 release, His Castilian Hawk. Set against the complications of Edward I’s invasion of Wales, His Castilian Hawk is a story of loyalty, integrity—and love.   

Connect with Anna:

Website • Twitter • Facebook • Amazon  • 

Author Page.

Hello and welcome to my stop on the
Kingdom of Sea and Stone

by Mara Rutherford, hosted by, TBR And Beyond

@tbrbeyondtours & @maurarutherfordwrites

Genre: Young Adult Fantasy
Publishing date: October 6th, 2020

Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indigo

Ever since Nor was forced to go to a nearby kingdom in her sister’s place, she’s wanted nothing more than to return to the place and people she loves. But when her wish comes true, she soon finds herself cast out from both worlds, with a war on the horizon.

As an old enemy resurfaces more powerful than ever, Nor will have to keep the kingdom from falling apart with the help of Prince Talin and Nor’s twin sister, Zadie. There are forces within the world more mysterious than any of them ever guessed—and they’ll need to stay alive long enough to conquer them…

Please check the website (www.tbrbeyondtours.com) to follow along with the tour schedule!

Tour Schedule:

https://tbrandbeyondtours.com/2020/08/23/tour-schedule-kingdom-of-sea-and-stone-crown-of-coral-and-pearl-2-by-mara-rutherford/

This book was received from the Author, and Publisher, in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.

This is a non spoiler review, because you as reader need to read this book. Also, I feel sometimes I have in the past gave away to much of the plot line. This has diminished the pleasure for would be readers

-To give away further plot would be to lessen the pleasure for readers

Mara Rutherford next installment in her widely popular duology.

Kingdom of Sea and Stone is the sequel to Crown of Coral and Pearl. This action-packed tale, is a interwoven fantasy, with politics. centered ultimately on the incredible bonds of sisterhood.

Incredible world building and a plot driven storyline. This page turner takes off immediately after the aftermath of Crown of Coral and Pearl. The events following Nor has escaped Ilara leaving her beloved Prince Talin behind to escape to Varenia with her twin sister Zadie.

Mara Rutherford masterly sets character conflit into a appealing young adult fantasy. That holds the reader attention from start to finish. A plot fueled by certitude, the author creates enduring heroines, and heroes. The character development from the first book to this one is phenomenal. The sub characters are worth noting along with focus on the sisters relationship being the driving force within this book.

All in all it was a perfect follow up book in this engaging fantasy ya dualogy.

Looking forward to reading more from this talented author!

-US Only –

Finished copy of Kingdom of Sea and Stone. This giveaway will end on October 13th

Giveaway

Mara Rutherford began her writing career as a journalist but quickly discovered she far preferred fantasy to reality. Originally from California, Mara has since lived all over the world along with her Marine-turned-diplomat husband. A triplet born on Leap Day, Mara holds a Master’s degree in Cultural Studies from the University of London. When she’s not writing or chasing after her two sons, she can usually be found pushing the boundaries of her comfort zone, whether at a traditional Russian banya or an Incan archaeological site. She is the author of CROWN OF CORAL AND PEARL (2019), its sequel, KINGDOM OF SEA AND STONE (2020), and LUMINOUS (2021).

Website | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads

October 6th
TBR and Beyond – Welcome Post
Rambling Mads – Review
The Book Dutchesses – Promotional Post

October 7th
Book Lover’s Book Reviews – Review & Favourite Quotes
Fangirl Pixie Blog – Promotional Post

October 8th
Rhonda With A Book – Creative Post Exploration of Fairy Tales Themes
The Little Mouse That Reads – Review, Playlist & Mood Board
Moonlight Rendezvous – Review & Favourite Quotes

October 9th
Books with Joy – Review & Favourite Quotes
Sometimes Leelynn Reads – Review
Stocked Up on Starbooks – Promomotional Post

October 10th
Witch’s Brooding Thoughts – Review, Favourite Quotes & Mood Board
Kait Plus Books – Promotional Post & Creative Post
Balancing Books and Beauties – Review & Playlist

October 11th
Thousands of Pages – Review & Mood Board
The Writer’s Alley – Review & Favourite Quotes
Young at Heart Reader – Promotional Post

October 12th
We Write at Dawn – Review
Gwendalyn’s Books – Review
One More Chapter – Review & Favourite Quotes

October 6th
TBR and Beyond (Blogger’s choice)
Simplybeccamee (Review)
The Book Dutchesses (Blogger’s choice)

October 7th
Book Lover’s Book Reviews (Blogger’s choice)

October 8th
Rhonda With A Book (Blogger’s choice)
The Little Mouse That Reads (Blogger’s choice)
bookish_girl_4life (Review)

October 9th
Books with Joy (Blogger’s choice)
Blonde & Bookish (Review)

October 10th
Witch’s Brooding Thoughts (Blogger’s choice)
Kait Plus Books (Blogger’s choice)
Balancing Books and Beauties (Blogger’s choice)

October 11th
Thousands of Pages (Blogger’s choice)
The Writer’s Alley (Blogger’s choice)
Young at Heart Reader (Blogger’s choice)

October 12th
colbywilkens (Review)
Gwendalyn’s Books (Blogger’s choice)

Welcome to my stop on Shelley and the Unknown Lady, by Lona Manning.

#ShelleyandtheUnknownLady #LonaManning #HFVBTBlogTours

Shelley and the Unknown Lady
By Lona Manning

Publication Date: October 5, 2020
eBook; 177 pages

Genre: Historical Fiction

Percy Bysshe Shelley’s brief and turbulent life was as passionate and haunting as his poetry.

Romantic, idealistic and impulsive, Shelley had several intense love affairs.

When Shelley drowned at sea, he took his secrets with him.

Did a beautiful, lovelorn lady really follow him throughout Europe, as he claimed? Did Mary Shelley ever learn about this rival for her affections?

Shelley and the Unknown Lady is a carefully researched imagining of the true-life tragedy behind the mystery.

This novella is a stand-alone story excerpted from Lona Manning’s Mansfield Trilogy.

Available on Amazon

Praise for Lona Manning’s Writing

“Many try to emulate [Jane] Austen; not all succeed. Here, Manning triumphs.” -Blue Ink Reviews

“Manning’s books are… maniacally well-researched, gorgeously written, and wholly accurate in character. I can’t wait for the next one! I wholeheartedly recommend her books…” -Goodreads reviewer

This is a non spoiler review, because you as reader need to read this book. Also, I feel sometimes I have in the past gave away to much of the plot line. This has diminished the pleasure for would be readers

-To give away further plot would be to lessen the pleasure for readers-

This book was received from the Author, and Publisher, in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.

Shelley and the Unknown Lady is a captivating, interesting researched imagining of the true-life tragedy behind the mysterious lady that allegedly followed romantic poet Percy Bysshe Shelley through out Europe.

In this intriguing historical fiction that draws the imaginative conclusion that Mary Crawford, who happens to be a fictional character created by JaneAusten.

The author has done some wonderful research and her writing flows. The characters are true to life and you could easy place Crawford as the lovelorn, unknown woman that Percy Shelley had mentioned briefly. Mary and Percy are depicted perfectly as they both come across as being shallow and vain individuals.

The book includes historical notes and an excerpt from my award-winning debut novel, A Contrary Wind.

Thanks so much to the author and HFBT for this delightful book.

Percy Bysshe Shelley’s brief and turbulent life was as passionate as his poetry. Romantic, idealistic and impulsive, Shelley had several intense love affairs. When Shelley drowned at sea, he took his secrets with him.

About the Author

Lona Manning loves reading, choral singing, gardening and travel. Over the years, she has been a home care aide, legal secretary, political speech writer, office manager, vocational instructor, non-profit administrator and ESL Teacher. She has also written true crime articles for http://www.CrimeMagazine.com. She began writing A Contrary Wind, her award-winning debut novel, while she was teaching English in China. Manning and her husband raised their family in the Okanagan Valley in British Columbia, Canada. You can follow her on Twitter or Goodreads or at her Facebook page, “A Contrary Wind” where she posts on all things Jane Austen.

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

Blog Tour Schedule

Monday, October 5
Review at Passages to the Past

Tuesday, October 6
Interview at Novels Alive
Excerpt at Probably at the Library

Wednesday, October 7
Review at Chicks, Rogues, and Scandals

Thursday, October 8
Guest Post at Novels Alive

Saturday, October 10
Feature at Reading is My Remedy

Sunday, October 11
Review at Gwendalyn’s Books

Monday, October 12
Guest Post at Coffee and Ink

Tuesday, October 13
Review at Novels Alive
Interview at Bookish Rantings

Giveaway

During the Blog Tour, we are giving away a $10 Amazon Gift Card! To enter, please use the Gleam form below.

The giveaway is open to US residents only and ends on October 13th. You must be 18 or older to enter.

Shelley and the Unknown Lady
https://widget.gleamjs.io/e.js

Hello Friends,

Thank you Barbara Taylor Bradford @btbnovelist and @suzyapprovedbooktours for having me in this fantastic book tour {partner}⁣

Barbara Taylor Bradford
Release Date Oct. 6, 2020

About The Book:

James Lionel Falconer has risen quickly from a mere shop worker to being the right-hand man of Henry Malvern, head of the most prestigious shipping company in London. With Malvern’s daughter Alexis running away to the country after a terrible tragedy and refusing to return, James’ ascent to head of the company seems inevitable. But even a charmed life like James’ is not without its setbacks.

A terrible fire threatens to end his merchant career before it’s had a chance to truly begin. Mrs. Ward, James’ former paramour, has a secret that could change his life forever. And his distaste for Alexis Malvern is slowly growing into feelings of quite a different sort. Can James continue to be the master of his own fate, or will all of his charm, intelligence, and wit finally fail him when he has to enter the lion’s den?

From New York Times bestselling author Barbara Taylor Bradford comes the highly anticipated second book in the House of Falconer saga.

This book was received from the Author, and Publisher, in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.

In the Lion’s Den

A House of Falconer Novel

This the incredible second installment in Bradford’s House of Falconer series about a retail dynasty.

Set in Victorian times in England 1889-1892

James Lionel Falconer has now risen the ranks and now is by side with the shipping magnate, Henry Malvern of London’s Malvern & Malvern Co. His climb from a mere shop worker to being the right hand man of Henry Malvern hasn’t come without it fair share of drama.

James Lionel Faulkner has more responsibility as he’s doing everything he can to reach the top of the prestigious shipping company in England. Climbing from a mere shop worker to being the right hand man of Henry Malvern doesn’t come without its set of challenges.

Henry is tasked with bringing Henry Malvern’s daughter, Alexis, back into the business fold. She is reluctant after suffering the the loss of her fiancée.

Malvern’s health is deteriorating, and in a series of events Percy Malvern is caught stealing from the wine business in LeHavre. Henry job is assistant to a contractor and is helping build an arcade that will hold businesses. There ares some dire events, and revelations that will keep on your toes.

In all of this Henry still has time to dream of one day opening his own shop.

There is a lot of twist and you find a vast amount of characters, that play out perfectly with this stunning plot.

Rich with vibrant atmospheric details makes for an epic historical fiction that is nothing short of outstanding. With descriptive prose you will find yourself amongst the well-do of intriguing London society.

The legendary Barbara Taylor Bradford does not disappoint in this second book of the House of Falconer. I excited to read the next book when it’s released.

Bradford was born in Leeds, West Yorkshire (UK) as the only child of Freda and Winston Taylor. She grew up in the Leeds suburb of Armley and after Town Street Church of England School worked in the typing pool at the Yorkshire Evening Post before going into journalism. By the age of twenty she was the fashion editor of Woman’s Own Magazine and an editor and columnist on Fleet Street for the London Evening News.

Bradford’s books have sold more than ninety one (91) million copies worldwide in more than ninety (90) countries and forty (40) languages. Ten (10) of her books have been made into miniseries and television movies, making her one of the best-selling authors over the last 30 years.

In April of 2003, Mrs. Bradford was inducted into the Writers Hall of Fame of America alongside Mark Twain, Langston Hughes and Dr. Seuss. She was awarded an OBE by Queen Elizabeth II in the Queen’s 2007 Birthday Honours list for her contributions to literature. Her original manuscripts are archived at the Brotherton Library at Leeds University, alongside the works of the Bronte sisters. In 2009, Barbara’s publishers began a worldwide 30th anniversary celebration of A Woman of Substance. The first annual Woman of Substance Awards took place on September 10th 2009 at the Dorchester Hotel in London. She lives in New York City with her husband, of 51 years, television producer Robert Bradford.

Her official website is: www.barbarataylorbradford.com

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A Golden Fury: A Novel By Samantha Cohoe

Published by Wednesday Books

**On Sale October, 2020** Hardcover | $18.99

ISBN: 9781250220400| Ebook ISBN: 978125022041

Thea Hope longs to be an alchemist out of the shadow of her famous mother. The two of them are close to creating the legendary Philosopher’s Stone—whose properties include immortality and can turn any metal into gold—but just when the promise of the Stone’s riches is in their grasp, Thea’s mother destroys the Stone in a sudden fit of violent madness.

While combing through her mother’s notes, Thea learns that there’s a curse on the Stone that causes anyone who tries to make it to lose their sanity. With the threat of the French Revolution looming, Thea is sent to Oxford for her safety, to live with the father who doesn’t know she exists.

But in Oxford, there are alchemists after the Stone who don’t believe Thea’s warning about the curse—instead, they’ll stop at nothing to steal Thea’s knowledge of how to create the Stone. But Thea can only run for so long, and soon she will have to choose: create the Stone and sacrifice her sanity, or let the people she loves die.

A GOLDEN FURY and the curse of the Philosopher’s Stone will haunt you long after the final page.

More early praise for A GOLDEN FURY:

“A Golden Fury is beguiling and unpredictable. Cohoe weaves an international adventure set against a rich historical backdrop, and alchemist Thea faces adversaries both human and magical with wit and grit. A compelling debut from a writer to watch.” -Hannah Capin, author of Foul is Fair and The Dead Queens Club

“Alchemists used many methods to hide their secrets, but Cohoe has deciphered their riddles — and uncovered a truth far darker and more complex than a miraculous rock. She lures you in with a promise of gold, then delivers something far more valuable: an intricate tale of ambition and sacrifice, loyalty and betrayal, the quest for knowledge and the

wisdom to use it correctly.” -Marie Brennan, author of The Memoirs of Lady Trent

“I adore Thea – her fierce ambition, her intelligence, and the warmth she so desperately wants to share with someone worthy. This is an alchemical wonder of a book. It takes all the elements of a good story – mystery, magic, devastating stakes, compelling relationships and impossible choices – and weaves them into pure gold.”

-Catherine Egan, author of Julia Unbound

“A Golden Fury invites you into a world of intrigue, magic and ambition. Set against the backdrop of the French

revolution, it follows a talented, driven heroine, raised by her famous and overbearing mother to pursue alchemy’s ultimate dream—the Philosopher’s Stone—in a time when women had little rights of their own. Cohoe’s prose is flush with clever dialogue and flawed-yet-sympathetic characters, so realistic they leap off the page. First loves, family secrets and shocking betrayals abound as our heroine pits her intellect against a curse of madness in this impossible-to-put- down debut.” -Ellen Goodlett, author of Rule

“Full of rich historical detail, clever world-building, and tumultuous relationships, A Golden Fury transformed me.

Cohoe’s debut proves we are in the hands of a deft and dangerous creator. I sat up half the night thinking about it, and the other half longing to see her next book.” -Tracy Townsend, author of Thieves of Fate series

“I fell for this thrilling tale of madness and murder, alchemy and obsession— and the fiercely determined Theosebeia Hope who will stop at nothing to get her heart’s desire. I could not turn the pages fast enough!”

-Gita Trelease, author of Enchantee