Tag: #HistoricalFiction

Book Reviews

A Beautiful Disguise

Gwendalyn’s Books

Welcome to my stop on the blog tour for

A Beautiful Disguise by Roseanna M. White


• Title: A Beautiful Disguise

• Series: The Imposters (Book 1)

• Author: Roseanna M. White

• Genre: Historical Romance, Detective Mystery, Inspirational Fiction

• Publisher: Bethany House Publishers (August 22, 2023)

• Length: (368) pages

• Format: Hardcover, Trade Paperback, eBook, & Audiobook

• ISBN: ‎ 978-0764240928

• Tour Dates: August 21 – September 4, 2023

BOOK DESCRIPTION

In Edwardian London, not all that glitters is gold as a lady and an intelligence officer’s secret mission take them from the city’s dazzling ballrooms to its covert intelligence offices.

Sir Merritt Livingstone has spent a decade serving the monarch in the field, but when pneumonia lands him behind a desk in the War Office Intelligence Division just as they’re creating a new secret intelligence branch, he’s intent on showing his worth. He suspects an aristocrat of leaking information to Germany as tensions mount between the two countries, but he needs someone to help him prove it, so he turns to The Imposters, Ltd. No one knows who they are, but their results are beyond compare.

Left with an estate on the brink of bankruptcy after their father’s death, Lady Marigold Fairfax and her brother open a private investigation firm for the elite to spy on the elite. Dubbed The Imposters, Ltd., their anonymous group soon becomes the go-to for the crème of society who want answers delivered surreptitiously. But the many secrets Marigold learns about her peers pale in comparison to her shock when she and her brother are hired to investigate her best friend’s father as a potential traitor.

Lady Marigold is determined to discover the truth for her friend’s sake, and she’s more determined still to keep her heart from getting involved with this enigmatic new client . . . who can’t possibly be as noble as he seems.

PRAISE FOR A BEAUTIFUL DISGUISE

• “White’s well-woven plot is engaging from start to finish with delightful threads of mystery, romance, and inspiration.”— Carrie Turansky, award-winning author

• “A Beautiful Disguise has all of the hallmarks of this beloved author’s resplendent fiction: pitch-perfect historical research, a thrilling setting and perfectly paced plot and a love story that sparks as wonderfully as Lady Marigold’s effervescent intelligence and charm. A sheer and unputdownable delight by a true master.” —Rachel McMillan, author of The Mozart Code

• “5 STARS – Espionage, intrigue, and secrets abound in this beautifully crafted historical fiction set in pre-WWI Edwardian England (1909). Roseanna M White’s gift of weaving intricate, engaging plots and creating charming, lovable characters shines so clearly in this book that kicks off her new series Imposters.”— Mindy Houng, Interviews & Reviews.com

PURCHASE LINKS

AMAZON | BARNES & NOBLE | PUBLISHER | BOOKSHOP | BOOKBUB | GOODREADS

REVIEW

Hello Gracious Readers

A Beautiful Disguise by Roseanna M. White is the first installment in the author’s The Imposters Series.

Roseanna M. White newest book is set during Edwardian London, readers follow Lady Marigold and her brother Lord Yates, Earl of Fairfax. Who have taken things into their own hands, when they were left orphaned with an estate on the brink of ruin. Their Eccentric upbringing has allowed them to be successful with their anonymous group of professional private investigators, known as The Imposters, Ltd.

A semi retired circus is taking up residence at the Fairfax Towers in Northumberland, accompanied by a diverse collection of animals. Which is also taking up a strain on the Fairfax accounts. But nerveless Lady Marigold, and her brother Yates adventurous nature, has led them to step away from cultural norms and take up disguises and weave through the Ton. Using deception, Lady Marigold carefully moved through society, uncovering secrets. The notoriety of their business has built the brother and sister duo a notable reputation, along with the business being quite lucrative.

Lieutenant Colonel Sir Merritt Livingstone is bond and determined to find out who informant to Germany is so he seeks out the private investigators, known as The Imposters, Ltd.

A really enjoyable historical fiction, with a absolutely delightful cast of characters that took me completely by surprise. The heartwarming romance between Lady Marigold, and Merritt, was done perfectly. The intrigue and the twist at the end kept me on my toes.I really enjoyed the period setting of the pre-WWI and the beginnings of MI5. The circus premise was engaging and a fun to read about.

This is one book that you need to will to pick up, I highly recommend!

Thank you to Bethany House for the gifted book!

 

AUTHOR BIO

Roseanna M. White is a bestselling, Christy Award-winning author who has long claimed that words are the air she breathes. She pens her novels beneath her Betsy Ross flag, with her Jane Austen action figure watching over her. When not writing fiction, she’s homeschooling her two children, editing and designing, and pretending her house will clean itself. Roseanna is the author of numerous novels, ranging from biblical fiction to American-set romances to Edwardian British series. Roseanna lives with her family in West Virginia.

WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK | X (formerly known as Twitter)| BOOKBUB | GOODREADS

Book Reviews

THE MAID OF BALLYMACOOL

Gwendalyn’s Books

Hello Loves

Welcome to my stop on the blog tour for

THE MAID OF BALLYMACOOL By Jennifer Deibel

@ThisGalsJourney, @RevellBooks

THE MAID OF BALLYMACOOL
By Jennifer Deibel

• Genre: Historical Romance, Historical Fiction, Inspirational Fiction

• Publisher: Fleming H. Revell Co (February 21, 2023)

• Length: (352) pages

• Format: Hardcover, Trade Paperback, & eBook

• ISBN: 978-0800741747

• Tour Dates: February 13 – 27, 2023

PURCHASE LINKS

AMAZON | BAKER PUBLISHING | BARNES & NOBLE | BOOK DEPOSITORY | BOOKSHOP | GOODREADS

BOOK DESCRIPTION

Brianna Kelly was abandoned at Ballymacool House and Boarding School as an infant. She has worked there since she was a wee girl and will likely die there. Despite a sense that she was made for something more, Brianna feels powerless to change her situation, so she consoles herself by exploring the Ballymacool grounds, looking for hidden treasures to add to the secret trove beneath the floorboards of her room.

When Michael Wray, the son of local gentry, is sent to Ballymacool to deal with his unruly cousin, he finds himself drawn to Brianna, immediately and inescapably. There is something about her that feels so . . . familiar. When Brianna finds a piece of silver in the woods, she commits to learning its origins, with the help of Michael. What they discover may change everything.

Fan favorite Jennifer Deibel invites you back to the Emerald Isle in the 1930s for this fresh take on the Cinderella story, complete with a tantalizing mystery, a budding romance, and a chance at redemption.

ADVANCE PRAISE

– “Deibel’s update on the “Cinderella” story features sympathetic, three-dimensional characters that readers will find easy to root for as they navigate the page-turning plot and find their way to one another. This heartwarming entry will keep readers hooked till its satisfying close.”— Publisher’s Weekly

– “A slow-building, delicious romance wrapped in a mystery!”— Erica Vetsch, author of the Thorndike & Swann Regency Mysteries

REVIEW

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.

The Maid of Ballymacool by Jennifer Deibel, follows a sweet young Irish woman Brianna Kelly. Brianna was abandoned on the steps of the Ballymacool House and Boarding School when she was just an infant. Maureen Magee, the harsh headmistress of Boarding School has made sure that Brianna knows her place as a servant.

Michael Wray the son of a local lord, is tasked with checking on his wayward female cousin at Ballymacool House. He can’t help being drawn to tinder hearted Brianna Kelly. Even though they are separated by completely opposite social classes, Michael is smitten by the young lass. Michael finds Mistress Magee treatment of Brianna ghastly, and uncalled for. Together Brianna and Michael seek to unravel the mystery surrounding Brianna’s parentage.

This was such a lovely Cinderella styled clean historical romance. I found the setting and details wonderful, along with budding romance of Brianna and Michael. There is a mystery that unfolds that keeps readers in a state of suspense.

This was such a delightful book read, that once I started reading it I found myself captivated by the characters and the mystery.

Thanks so much to Laurel Ann Nattress Austenprose PR

AUTHOR

Jennifer Deibel is the author of A Dance in Donegal (winner of the Kipp Award for Historical Romance) and The Lady of Galway Manor (a Parable Group bestseller). Her work has appeared on (in)courage, on The Better Mom, in Missions Mosaic magazine, and in other publications. With firsthand immersive experience abroad, Jennifer writes stories that help redefine home through the lens of culture, history, and family. After nearly a decade of living in Ireland and Austria, she now lives in Arizona with her husband and their three children. 

WEBSITE | TWITTER | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | GOODREADS
Book Reviews

The Rose and the Thistle: A Novel

Gwendalyn’s Books

Hello Darlings

Welcome to my stop on blog tour for

The Rose and the Thistle By Laura Frantz

Hosted By @AustenprosePR

@gwendalynbooks.wordpress.com

• Title: The Rose and the Thistle: A Novel

• Author: Laura Frantz

• Genre: Historical Romance, Historical Fiction, Inspirational Fiction

• Publisher: Fleming H. Revell Co (January 3, 2023)

• Length: (416) pages

• Format: Hardcover, Trade paperback, & eBook

• ISBN: 978-0800742669

• Tour Dates: January 2 – 16, 2023

PURCHASE LINKS

AMAZON | BARNES & NOBLE | BOOK DEPOSITORY | BOOKSHOP | GOODREADS

SYNOPSIS

In 1715, Lady Blythe Hedley’s father is declared an enemy of the British crown because of his Jacobite sympathies, forcing her to flee her home in northern England. Secreted to the tower of Wedderburn Castle in Scotland, Lady Blythe awaits who will ultimately be crowned king. But in a house with seven sons and numerous servants, her presence soon becomes known.

No sooner has Everard Hume lost his father, Lord Wedderburn, than Lady Hedley arrives with the clothes on her back and her mistress in tow. He has his own problems–a volatile brother with dangerous political leanings, an estate to manage, and a very young brother in need of comfort and direction in the wake of losing his father. It would be best for everyone if he could send this misfit heiress on her way as soon as possible.

Drawn into a whirlwind of intrigue, shifting alliances, and ambitions, Lady Blythe must be careful whom she trusts. Her fortune, her future, and her very life are at stake. Those who appear to be adversaries may turn out to be allies–and those who pretend friendship may be enemies.

REVIEW

From the desk of Gwendalyn-

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.

“You are still my English rose . . .
while I remain your
Scottish thistle.”

An exquisite historical fiction with picturesque settings, and wonderful superb details.

The Rose and the Thistle by Laura Frantz is heady historical romance set in Scotland during the perilous times of the Jacobite uprising in 1715.

Lady Blythe Hedley and her lady’s companion, barely escape with their lives as they fly through the night from northern England to the Wedderburn Castle in Scotland. Lady Blythe’s father, the Earl of Northumberland is embroiled heavily in the Jacobite cause. Which supported the restoration of the senior line of the House of Stuart to the British throne. Even though her father had already laid out plans just encase such a situation should arise. Nothing prepared Blythe and her dearest companion and confidante, for the challenges they will face in Scotland.

Everything is in chaos upon their arrival at Wedderburn Castle, as Blythe finds herself thrown in a house of mourning. Her godfather late Lord Wedderburn, has just passed away, and the eldest son, Everard Hume is coming terms with his new role as heir. Being the eldest of seven brothers he is now tasked with keeping his families estate intact as the shifting tides of religious upheaval threatens to tear all of England, and Scotland apart. Trying to keep the lady Blythe’s presence a secret is important, but the demanding English Rose might be a more of challenge than he can handle. Harboring the young lady who is a practicing Catholic, and that her father is a Jacobitism supporter, could mean disaster for Hume’s outward loyalty to the Crown….and to Everard and Blythe’s heart !

Oh this was a lovely historical fiction that I fell in over the hills love in with. A blossoming friendship that slowly turns into something more. Both main characters overcoming religious and background challenges, to learn how to except each other for who they are.

A moving and treasured book that leaves with a warm heart and a delightful smile on your face after long after closing the book. This is my first foray with this author and I completely understand her wide following. Her writing is superb, along with historical atmospheric imagery, that had me completely invested within the characters lives.

I am so excited to find this very talented author, and I look forward to going back and reading her past work!

–Happy Reading-

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH AUTHOR LAURA FRANTZ
An Exclusive Interview with Laura Frantz, Author of The Rose and the Thistle

 

ADVANCE PRAISE

• “A masterful achievement of historical complexity and scintillating romance sure to thrill readers with its saga of love under siege.”— Booklist, starred review

• “A deeply atmospheric story of faith, love, and sacrifice that is as captivating as it is enthralling.”— Sarah E. Ladd, bestselling author of The Cornwall Novels

• “Marked by majestic Scottish scenery and a memorable trip to Edinburg, The Rose and the Thistle is a delightful historical romance set during a tumultuous time.”— Forward Reviews

AUTHOR

WEBSITE | TWITTER | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | GOODREAD

Christy Award-winning author, Laura Frantz, is passionate about all things historical, particularly the 18th-century, and writes her manuscripts in longhand first. Her stories often incorporate Scottish themes that reflect her family heritage. She is a direct descendant of George Hume, Wedderburn Castle, Berwickshire, Scotland, who was exiled to the American colonies for his role in the Jacobite Rebellion of 1715, settled in Virginia, and is credited with teaching George Washington surveying in the years 1748-1750. Proud of her heritage, she is also a Daughter of the American Revolution. When not at home in Kentucky, she and her husband live in Washington State.

Book Tours

Of Darkness and Light – Book Tour + Review + Giveaway

Gwendalyn’s Books

Hello Bookish Friends, Are you a reader of historical fiction?

Today I’m really excited to be taking part in the Book Tour of, OF DARKNESS AND LIGHT by Heidi Eljarbo, which is being hosted by HFBT!

Those of you who like WWII fiction will be captivated by, Of Darkness and Light. Fans of Art historical fiction, will be immersed within this stunning dual storyline.

#giveaway #OfDarknessandLight #HeidiEljarbo #HFVBTBlogTours

Darkness and Light
by Heidi Eljarbo

Publication Date: May 12, 2020

Series: Soli Hansen Mysteries, #1
Genre: Historical Mystery

 

In this first book of a new historical mystery series, a young art historian faces a tough choice in German-occupied Norway.

“Artful prose and at a pace that makes for a can’t-put-down, first-class literary voyage.”–Melissa Dalton-Bradford, bestselling author of Global Mom

Oslo, 1944. Soli Hansen’s passion for art history is and always has been a way of life for her. While she spends her days working in an art shop, WWII is taking its toll on everyone. Apprehensive of the consequences, Soli avoids becoming entangled in the war resistance efforts. She closes her eyes in hopes the enemy will retreat and leave her beautiful country for good.

But when a woman is found dead in the alley alongside the art shop and a painting from the last auction goes missing, Soli is thrown into the thickest of the fray involving both Nazi art theft and the Norwegian resistance.

Once Soli finds her courage, there’s no turning back. Her personal life is turned upside-down with danger, lies, spying, and an incredible discovery.

In this dual timeline novel, Heidi Eljarbo paints a vivid picture of what people are willing to do in desperate times. With unforgettable characters and rich historical details, Of Darkness and Light will keep the reader mesmerized until the last satisfying page.

Perfect for fans of Kate Morton, Lucinda Riley, Katherine Neville, and Kate Mosse.

Available on Amazon

Praise for Of Darkness and Light

“Interspersing love, hope, and courage, the participants are drawn together in mysterious paths.”–Pauline Isaksen, bestselling author of Dying for Justice

“Of Darkness and Light will reel you in and keep you hooked until the end.”–Mette Barfelt, bestselling author of The Solvik Series

From The Desk Of Gwendalyn G Anderson:

In this first book of a new historical mystery series,

Of Darkness and Light, is an incredible new book by the wonderful author Heidi Eljarbo.

A riveting WW2 historical fiction, set to the backdrop of Norway.

1944, Oslo a town on Norway’s southern coast. It’s been four years since German invasion of Norway. Solveig Soli Hansen, is living in Oslo which is located off the southern coast of Norway.

Having left her widowed father home in Kelemtstrud, south of Oslo. She now rents a room from her Uncle and Aunt. She is able to continue her life’s passion in Art History by working at Mr Holm’s Fine Art Shop.

When the mysterious death of the shops cleaning woman, Mrs Gundersen. Soli will be drawn into a mystery, that she will need to use her talents as an art historian to uncover an art theft and intriguing murder mystery.

This astounding book tale set creatively in two time periods, WWII Nazi occupied Norway, and that of 1600s Valletta, Malta.

I tore through this brilliantly executed novel, as it also includes Italian painter Caravaggio and his efforts to win the love of a beautiful young Jewish woman whose portrait he paints.

Eljarbo’s compellingly narration, along with incredible imagery of the war torn Norway is depicted with stunning atmospheric elements. You feel completely immersed into Soli life, and the struggles of the people living in this turbulent time in Norway’s history. Character development and complex relationships, and the setting and both time periods are brought to life with unique details. I found the books pacing brisk and vividly rendered. The intense drama will pull you forward as this impressive plot line twists. The author seamless narration is engaging as it switches from Soli tale to that of the renowned sixteen century artist, Caravaggio.

As the story unfolds, Soli will leave her somewhat normal life behind. She will risk all, and together with her new friends in Norwegian Resistance, they will do everything with in their power to thwart the efforts of Germans to confiscate Norways priceless art.

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.

About the Author

Heidi Eljarbo is the bestselling author of Catching a Witch. She grew up in a home filled with books and artwork and she never truly imagined she would do anything other than write and paint. She studied art, languages, and history, all of which have come in handy when working as an author, magazine journalist, and painter.

After living in Canada, six US states, Japan, Switzerland, and Austria, Heidi now calls Norway home. She and her husband have a total of nine children, thirteen grandchildren–so far–in addition to a bouncy Wheaten Terrier.

Their favorite retreat is a mountain cabin, where they hike in the summertime and ski the vast, white terrain during winter. Heidi’s favorites are family, God’s beautiful nature, and the word whimsical.

If you would like to know more, please visit Heidi’s website. You can also follow her on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Goodreads.

Tuesday, May 12
Review at Passages to the Past

Thursday, May 14
Review at Gwendalyn’s Books

Friday, May 15
Feature at What Is That Book About

Monday, May 18
Review at A Chick Who Reads

Tuesday, May 19
Feature at Reading is My Remedy

Thursday, May 21
Review at 100 Pages a Day

Friday, May 22
Feature at Hopewell’s Public Library of Life

Monday, May 25
Review at Foals, Fiction, and Filligree

Tuesday, May 26
Feature at Books and Backroads

Thursday, May 28
Feature at Bookworlder

Monday, June 1
Review at History + Fiction + Adirondack Spirit

Tuesday, June 2
Interview at Jorie Loves A Story

Wednesday, June 3
Review at Jessica Belmont
Review at Chicks, Rogues and Scandals

During the Blog Tour, we are giving away one copy of Of Darkness and Light in paperback! To enter, please use the Gleam form below.

Giveaway Rules

– Giveaway ends at 11:59 pm EST on June 3rd. You must be 18 or older to enter.
– Paperback giveaway is open internationally.
– Only one entry per household.
– All giveaway entrants agree to be honest and not cheat the systems; any suspicion of fraud will be decided upon by blog/site owner and the sponsor, and entrants may be disqualified at our discretion.
– The winner has 48 hours to claim prize or a new winner is chosen.

Of Darkness and Light
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Book Tours

A Girl Called Foote + Book Review +Giveaway

Gwendalyn’s Books

Hello Bookish Friends Everywhere,

Today I have a wonderful book, that I am excited to share with you.

Welcome to my stop on the Book Tour of, A Girl Called Foote.

by A.E Walnofer, which is being hosted by HFBT!

#AGirlCalledFoote #AEWalnofer #HFVBTBlogTours @hfvbt,

A Girl Called Foote
by A.E. Walnofer

Publication Date: May 13, 2015
eBook & Paperback; 390 Pages

Genre: Historical Fiction

 

 

Young Jonathan Clyde causes mischief for everyone at Whitehall, the stately home of his privileged ancestors. As he matures, however, he comes to despise the vanity and conceit surrounding him.

Misfortune requires Lydia Smythe, an exceptionally clever farmer’s daughter, to seek employment at Whitehall. As a parlor maid, she feels stifled and harried by those over her. Still, she refuses to relinquish her independent mind and spirit.

From the moment Jonathan catches Lydia reading the books she is supposed to be dusting, he is intrigued by this unusual servant. Thus begins a clandestine relationship that is simultaneously amusing, confusing and enlightening. Just as it is evolving into something neither of them expected, an unforeseen truth comes to light, and the two wonder if their unconventional bond will be forever lost.

Set in England in the mid-eighteen hundreds, A Girl Called Foote is the coming-of-age story of two similarly impressive people leading very different lives.

Amazon | Barnes and Noble

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️41/2 stars

A GIRL CALLED FOOTE

BY A.E. WALNOFER

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.

A charming coming of age historical fiction, that sure will delight readers everywhere. Set in England in the Victorian period of the mid-eighteen hundreds.

Jonathan Clyde, is a mischievous young boy, whose life changes after the death of his titled father, and oldest brother. Raised at his ancestral home of Whitehall,

Lydia Smythe, is a Bookish, confident young farmers daughter that take up employment as a parlor maid at Whitehall. Her disposition is unique and attracts the young Baron, Jonathan. The storyline unfolds and the two lives become more and more intertwined. As their relationship expands to an unconventional one, they are still aware the class difference that is ever present between them.

The rich everyday detailed life of 18th century England comes through the pages of this amusing and thought provoking book. A.E. WALNOFER, creates a engaging historical fiction, part coming of age story with compelling interesting characters, along with social and economic issues presented.

Seamless cohesive narration, makes for a stunning read. Wonderfully detailed atmospheric elements adds to the realistic historical time period.

This was a enjoyable non stop read for me fast read for me, I had a hard time putting down and completely devoured over a day.

I recommend this book to my family and friends and anyone who enjoys coming of age Victorian era dramas.

A.E. Walnofer spends weekdays mobilizing the soft tissue and synovial joints of patients, and weekends typing out stories that are incessantly brewing inside her head. There are lots of these tales and she hopes to share many more of them with you in the future.

Website | Goodreads

Monday, May 4
Review at YA, It’s Lit
Review at Probably at the Library

Tuesday, May 5
Review at Gwendalyn’s Books

Wednesday, May 6
Review at Nursebookie
Feature at What Is That Book About

Thursday, May 7
Feature at Books In Their Natural Habitat

Friday, May 8
Review at Momfluenster
Review at Passages to the Past

During the Blog Tour, we are giving away two eBooks of A Girl Called Foote! To enter, please use the Gleam form below.

Giveaway Rules

– Giveaway ends at 11:59 pm EST on May 8th. You must be 18 or older to enter.
– Paperback giveaway is open to the US only.
– Only one entry per household.
– All giveaway entrants agree to be honest and not cheat the systems; any suspicion of fraud will be decided upon by blog/site owner and the sponsor, and entrants may be disqualified at our discretion.
– The winner has 48 hours to claim prize or a new winner is chosen.

A Girl Called Foote
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Book Tours

MAN OF WAR ~ Review + Giveaway

Gwendalyn’s Books
Today I’m really excited to be taking part in the Book Tour of,
MAN OF War by TJ. London,
which is being hosted by HFBT!

Man of War
by T.J. London

Publication Date: April 14, 2020
Paperback & eBook; 681 Pages

Series: The Rebels and Redcoats Saga, Book #4
Genre: Historical Fiction

 

 

The man who wants everything gets nothing…

July 1755

War is brewing between England and France. Impressed into the Royal Navy, Lieutenant Merrick, against all odds, advanced through the ranks to become an officer—but he is not a gentleman. A man with a tainted past from a traitorous family, cast down by King George—a stain no man can remove.

Merrick’s thrust into the role of captain, when the HMS Boudica is attacked by pirates off the coast of Nova Scotia. On a captured enemy vessel he discovers a King’s ransom in treasure and a woman chained in the hold from passenger ship that mysteriously disappeared at sea.

Beautiful, defiant, and hell bent on revenge, India makes a deal with Merrick to uncover the pirates’ scheme, promising him everything he desires: fortune, glory, and the chance to bring honor back to the McKesson name.

Now, they race against time to uncover a plot that links those in the highest ranks of the British aristocracy, to a failed rebellion that is once again trying to topple the monarchy and place an old pretender on the throne. But all that glitters is not gold as passions stir and an impossible love blooms, threatening to undermine all Merrick and India have done to protect their King and a country on the brink of war.

Available on Amazon

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

Man of War is the next installment from the revolutionary historic author TJ London. Book four and a prequel to the adored Rebels and Redcoats Saga.

London has once again delivered another masterpiece of historical fiction. This enthralling novel is seen through the eyes of Lieutenant Dane Merrick McKennson, and lady Caroline {India}

Lady Caroline has only just recently learned that she was a product of a torrid and infamous affair. She is betrothed to a lord in New York, sent away aboard a ship bond for the Colonies. When the unthinkable happens and the ship she is on is taken.

The French speaking devils kill all but her and two other ladies and a small boy. Tortured and barely surviving, she is rescued when the ship is captured by a Union Jack, Man of War, under the guidance of red headed captain. Casting aside her old life of a prestigious Lady, she takes on the name India.

Lieutenant Merrick was impressed into English Royal Navy, rising above the ranks to that of an officer. His family has lost their home and their name, cast out by his eldest brother. He has made his own way in the world on hard work and loyalty.

Merrick, and India life becomes intertwined as they are caught up in an extraordinary adventurous tale. India makes a deal with Merrick one that he can’t refuse.

Man of War is a historical masterpiece from the revolutionary historic author, TJ London. Perfectly executed with smooth, and flawless narration making this everything I hoped it would be. Intelligently written with just enough passionate scenes to keep your heart racing.

London latest novel is meticulously research and her knowledge is astounding. Richly descriptive scenes, catapults the reader to 1775 aboard the Boudica War Ship, and to early Manhattan New York, right before the revolutionary war.

The authors ability to create vivid imagery, immersing the reader within the clear atmospheric details. Immensely talented, TJ. London sets the bar on historical fiction. The realistic life portrayed aboard capitan Merrick McKennson ship is vibrant and one you won’t forget. The storyline is multi layered, and the intrigue and plot twist is superbly executed. This fast paced prequel, gives the reader an in-depth engaging backstory to the author’s Revolutionary war series.

The characters are engaging, and three dimensional and fully developed as jump of the pages. Even the Villianous ones will capture your attention and are well portrayed.

TJ. London’s, Man Of War, is an addictive thrilling adventurous historical fiction.

About the Author

T.J. London is a rebel, liberal, lover, fighter, diehard punk, and pharmacist-turned-author who loves history. As an author her goal is to fill in the gaps, writing stories about missing history, those little places that are so interesting yet sadly forgotten. Her favorite time periods to write in are first and foremost the American Revolutionary War, the French Revolution, the French and Indian War, the Russian Revolution and the Victorian Era. Her passions are traveling, writing, reading, barre, and sharing a glass of wine with her friends, while she collects experiences in this drama called life. She is a native of Metropolitan Detroit (but secretly dreams of being a Londoner) and resides there with her husband Fred and her beloved cat and writing partner Mickey.

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

Monday, April 27
Guest Post at A Darn Good Read

Tuesday, April 28
Review at Gwendalyn’s Books

Wednesday, April 29
Excerpt at Donna’s Book Blog

Thursday, April 30
Interview at The Book Junkie Reads

Friday, May 1
Review at Books, Writings, and More

Saturday, May 2
Feature at Just One More Chapter

Monday, May 4
Review at History + Fiction + Adirondack Spirit

Tuesday, May 5
Feature at The Lit Bitch

Wednesday, May 6
Feature at I’m All About Books

Thursday, May 7
Guest Post at Curling up by the Fire

Friday, May 8
Review at Hoover Book Reviews

Saturday, May 9
Feature at Reading is My Remedy

Monday, May 11
Review at andreajanel_reads

Wednesday, May 13
Feature at What Is That Book About

Thursday, May 14
Excerpt at Books In Their Natural Habitat

Friday, May 15
Review at Passages to the Past

To enter to win an amazing prize pack from T.J. London, please complete the Gleam form below!

Giveaway Rules

– Giveaway ends at 11:59 pm EST on May 15th. You must be 18 or older to enter.
– Paperback giveaway is open to the US only.
– Only one entry per household.
– All giveaway entrants agree to be honest and not cheat the systems; any suspicion of fraud will be decided upon by blog/site owner and the sponsor, and entrants may be disqualified at our discretion.
– The winner has 48 hours to claim prize or a new winner is chosen.

Man of War
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Book Tours

The Road To Delano Book Tour + Guest Post

Gwendalyn’s Books

Today I’m really excited to be taking part in the Book Tour of The Road To Delano by John DeSimone, which is being hosted by HFVBT!

The Road to Delano
by John DeSimone

Publication Date: March 10, 2020
Rare Bird Books
Hardcover; 320 Pages

Genre: Historical Fiction

 
 

Jack Duncan is a high school senior whose dream is to play baseball in college and beyond―as far away from Delano as possible. He longs to escape the political turmoil surrounding the labor struggles of the striking fieldworkers that infests his small ag town. Ever since his father, a grape grower, died under suspicious circumstances ten years earlier, he’s had to be the sole emotional support of his mother, who has kept secrets from him about his father’s involvement in the ongoing labor strife.

With their property on the verge of a tax sale, Jack drives an old combine into town to sell it so he and his mother don’t become homeless. On the road, an old friend of his father’s shows up and hands him the police report indicating Jack’s father was murdered. Jack is compelled to dig deep to discover the entire truth, which throws him into the heart of the corruption endemic in the Central Valley. Everything he has dreamed of is at stake if he can’t control his impulse for revenge.

While Jack’s girlfriend, the intelligent and articulate Ella, warns him not to so anything to jeopardize their plans of moving to L.A., after graduation, Jack turns to his best friend, Adrian, a star player on the team, to help to save his mother’s land. When Jack’s efforts to rescue a stolen piece of farm equipment leaves Adrian―the son of a boycotting fieldworker who works closely with Cesar Chavez―in a catastrophic situation, Jack must bail his friend out of his dilemma before it ruins his future prospects. Jack uses his wits, his acumen at card playing, and his boldness to raise the money to spring his friend, who has been transformed by his jail experience.

The Road to Delano is the path Jack, Ella, and Adrian must take to find their strength, their duty, their destiny.

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I’m John DeSimone, a novelist, memoirist, and author of The Road to Delano, a historical novel set in California’s Central Valley during the Delano grape strike led by Cesar Chavez. The story is both a coming of age story, and a historical novel rolled into one.

 

The inspiration for writing The Road to Delano came to me after reading about Cesar Chavez’s fast for nonviolence during the grape strike in 1968. As I studied and let the idea mature, I decided his moral stand, which I consider heroic, would have had to influence the moral choices of the young people around him. During my research, I decided that high school students must have been affected by Chavez’s stand in different ways. Jack, the son of a grower, and Adrian, the son of a farmworker, are confronted with choices.

 

I’m not talking about if they are going to use drugs or have sex with their girlfriends. Those are not trivial issues, for sure. But the choices they are faced with will shape their destiny and their characters in different ways far beyond their high school days. The Road to Delano is the path Jack and Adrian must take to find their strength, their duty, and their destiny.

My ambition in writing this novel is to bring to life a critical time in our state’s. history, indeed, in our country’s history. The ’60s were full of protests and movements, and the grape strike led by Cesar Chavez had its effect on our national scene. Not as dramatically as the lunch counter sit-ins in the South, but as necessary to an impoverished group of laborers, the farmworkers. Historical novels can frame an incident and help us understand the importance of the past to our lives today. I hope in writing this book, the heroic nature of Cesar Chavez’s self-sacrifice is remembered, and the story of my protagonists show truths that will last beyond a single reading of the book.

 

 

About the Author

John DeSimone is a published writer, novelist, and teacher. He’s been an adjunct professor and holds an MFA in Creative Writing from Spalding University. His recent co-authored books include Broken Circle: A Memoir of Escaping Afghanistan (Little A Publishers), and Courage to Say No by Dr. Raana Mahmood, about her struggles against sexual exploitation as a female physician in Karachi. His published novel Leonardo’s Chair published in 2005.

In 2012, he won a prestigious Norman Mailer Fellowship to complete his most recent historical novel, Road to Delano. His novels Leonardo’s Chair and No Ordinary Man have received critical recognition.

He works with select clients to write stories of inspiration and determination and with those who have a vital message to bring to the marketplace of ideas in well-written books.

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Blog Tour Schedule

Tuesday, March 3
Review at Passages to the Past
Feature at Books In Their Natural Habitat

Wednesday, March 4
Feature at I’m All About Books

Thursday, March 5
Review at Tales from the Book Dragon

Sunday, March 8
Review at Carole Rae’s Random Ramblings

Monday, March 9
Feature at Donna’s Book Blog

Wednesday, March 11
Review & Interview at Nursebookie

Thursday, March 12
Review at Books and Zebras

Friday, March 13
Review at YA, It’s Lit

Saturday, March 14
Review at Reading is My Remedy

Monday, March 16
Review at Chronicles of The Boozy Reader

Tuesday, March 17
Feature at Broken Teepee
Guest Post at Historical Graffiti

Wednesday, March 18
Interview at Jathan & Heather

Friday, March 20
Review at Jessica Belmont
Review at Oh, The Books She Will Read

Monday, March 23
Guest Post at Gwendalyn’s Books

Tuesday, March 24
Review & Excerpt at Robin Loves Reading

Wednesday, March 25
Feature at What Is That Book About

Giveaway

During the Blog Tour, we are giving away a copy of The Road to Delano! To enter, please use the Gleam form below.

Giveaway Rules

Giveaway ends at 11:59 pm EST on March 25th. You must be 18 or older to enter.
Giveaway is open to the US only.
Only one entry per household.
All giveaway entrants agree to be honest and not cheat the systems; any suspicion of fraud will be decided upon by blog/site owner and the sponsor, and entrants may be disqualified at our discretion.
The winner has 48 hours to claim prize or a new winner is chosen.

The Road to Delano
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