Tag Archives: Georgianna S.

The Worst Duke in the World by Lisa Berne-a review

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The Worst Duke in the World (Penhallow Dynasty 5) by Lisa Berne-a review

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ABOUT THE BOOK:Release Date January 12, 2021

A wayward duke must choose: will he be the bad hero in a love story gone awry, or the brave and clever hero who risks everything for true love?

The acclaimed Penhallow Dynasty series continues in this fresh, fun, funny tale!

Life’s no bowl of cherries for Anthony Farr, the Duke of Radcliffe. Duty demands he remarry to provide a spare to go along with the heir — and eligible ladies keep trying to finagle him into a proposal. All he wants is to be a good father to his 8-year-old son, see the Duchess (his truly terrific pig) win first prize at the harvest fête, and stay single. Even if that makes him a Bad Duke. Maybe the Worst Duke in the World.

Then Miss Jane Kent, a long-lost relation of the illustrious Penhallow family, arrives in the neighborhood and is promptly befriended by the Duke’s son. Jane, Anthony comes to realize, is smart and fun and also very kissable and dazzlingly desirable. Still, that’s not enough to melt his resistance to marrying again. He made a stern promise to himself, and promises must, of course, be kept.

But what if that’s just his head talking, and his heart… is saying something entirely different?

••••••

REVIEW:The Worst Duke in the World is a lovely historical romance written in the 1817 period. The romance is thrilling, but light and more innocent and stumbling at first. I, personally, won’t do spoilers and tell readers all about the book. I’ll just give you the basic set up and tell you what I found delightful about this novel.

Anthony Farr is the Duke of Radcliffe. He was the second son and was not particularly wanting the title. His brother passed away in an accident. When he became twenty-one, his father betrothed him to the woman who was betrothed to his brother, Selina. They hated each other and only had sex to create an heir. Anthony was miserable in this marriage, except for the birth of Wakefield, his son. When Selina died a few years later, he felt free and intended never to marry again. His sister Margaret was married to Selina’s brother, but he also died early. She was put out of her husband’s house by the son of his previous marriage and went to live at Hastings with Anthony. She pretty much tries to run the household and tries incredibly hard to marry him off again.

Jane Kent is a kind but poverty-stricken woman who has found a letter in her grandmother’s trunks and has come to Surmont Hall to see if there is any truth to the letter. This gives quite a twist to this story. While waiting to be received, the older Penhallow woman is talking with her son, and comes upon Jane. After looking at her she says “Titus” and almost faints. (No, I’m tempted, but I won’t spoil it!)

Jane meets Anthony as he visits with Gabriel Penhallow, Mrs. Penhallow’s second son. Then she meets his son Wakefield while taking lessons in everything with the vicar, Mr. Pressley. She and Wakefield become instant friends and I fell instantly in love with the effervescent Wakefield. When Wakefield invites Jane over for a visit, the fireworks start for real.

That’s the setup! My favorite character in this intriguing novel is Wakefield. The others are quite well done as well, however, Wakefield has my heart! He’s about eight and the most wonderful little scamp I’ve encountered. Well done, to author Lisa Berne. The building romance is wonderful, but the fears of the horrible marriage he had keep Anthony from being able to try again, or at least for now. Jane grows attached to both Anthony and Wakefield. Anthony is in love, but not being as brilliant as Wakefield, it takes him longer to realize it. My advice is to grab a good glass of your favorite beverage and cuddle in for an excellent read!

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Georgianna S

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Ten Days with a Duke by Erica Ridley-a review

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Ten Days with a Duke (12 Dukes of Christmas #11) by Erica Ridley-a review

 

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Olive Harper’s family has been feuding with the Westons for decades. The Westons’ stud farm is the biggest, but the Harpers’ is the most famous… and she’s the sole heiress. Or was, until her father brokers a truce by offering the Weston heir the Harper farm. The only way to get it back is to marry the knave who kissed her and humiliated her, twice—or prove to her father that some rifts can never be healed.

Scholar and botanist Elijah Weston is dreadful at feuding. For one, he prefers horticulture to horses. For two, he’s been desperately in love with his mortal enemy ever since he kissed her—and, yes, publicly destroyed her—all those years ago. When he’s given ten days to win Olive’s heart, he arrives with marriage license in hand. But where lies and double-crosses abound, how can lifelong rivals learn to trust their hearts?

Welcome to a heartwarming series of fun Regency romps nestled in a picturesque snow-covered village. After all, nothing heats up a winter night quite like finding oneself in the arms of a duke!

•••••••••

REVIEW:Ten Days with a Duke is the next installment in the 12 Dukes of Christmas. In this historical romantic novella, author Erica Ridley has written a fast, but uniquely interesting tale of forgiveness and redemption.

The Harper and Weston families were friends. The fathers were close since boyhood. Even though one was in line for a title, both were wealthy and great friends. They began a stud farm together that became famous and horses that were sought after by everyone. However, a feud began, and the friends became dire enemies. The farm was divided, and each held title to their own farms. The Weston’s farm was successful and famous, but the Harper’s farm became the one with horses that even royalty wanted.

Olive Harper was a bit gangly and not as lovely as she would one day be. However, she was a brilliant rider and entered a horse race for her age group of girl riders. She won easily and was awarded a medallion. Elijah Weston was only slightly older than Olive and loved to watch her ride. He thought she was lovely. He spoke to her after her win, near the barn where no one was around. They laughed and talked, then Elijah leaned in and kissed Olive just as her father, his father, and his uppity friends came into the barn. Elijah’s father mocked her. Elijah (afraid of his father’s scorn) and his friends joined in making fun of her, saying she looked like a Harper’s horse…and more. A year later Elijah’s father had caricatures of her circulated that ruined her first London season. Secretly, Elijah actually liked her, even thought he loved her. Over the years he never changed his mind, but his father made any thoughts of a relationship impossible.

Ten years later, Mr. Harper sent a note to Mr. Weston, trying to put an end to the old feud. They proposed that Elijah and Olive would marry, and Mr. Harper would give all his shares in his farm to Elijah. When told about the proposal, Olive was furious. She made conditions of her own before she would submit to her father’s will. They would spend 12 days together, if Elijah could ride her rogue horse Duke, she would consider the proposal. If not, she kept the farm.

There is so much more to this wonderful plot, but I don’t do spoilers. The characters in this are well developed, the conversations and even self-thoughts are interesting. How can lifelong enemies just get over everything and marry? The challenges and secrets are plentiful. This story is almost impossible to put down. So, don’t put it down! Grab a drink of your favorite beverage and cuddle in for a wonderful and fulfilling Christmas miracle!

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Georgianna S.

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Lady Lilias and the Devil in Plaid by Julie Johnstone-Review & Giveaway

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Lady Lilias and the Devil in Plaid (Scottish Scoundrels: Ensnared Hearts #2) by Julie Johnstone-Review & Giveaway

Lady Lilias and the Devil in Plaid
Scottish Scoundrels: Ensnared Hearts #2
by Julie Johnstone
Genre: adult, historical, romance
Release Date: October 30, 2020

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 30, 2020

Free-spirited Lilias Honeyfield has a secret. She’s certain the rich and powerful Duke of Greybourne is meant to be hers. He just needs to reappear in her life and stop denying his love for her before she’s forced to wed another. Though it’s been seven years, she has never forgotten the beautiful but tormented man hiding behind the mask of moody boy, nor does she believe she imagined the searing passion between them. But the day Nash Steele finally returns to Town, the rogue destroys her hope by claiming he never returned her affection.

Nash Steele is haunted by his mistakes and the memories of the impetuous, headstrong beauty who breached his heart and soothed his soul years ago. But innocent Lilias was never meant to be his. And if he ever doubts it, he reminds himself of the tragic accident he caused soon after they met. His life is now, and will always be, one of penance. Unable to have the one woman he wants, the easiest thing to do is to flee. So when duty eventually forces him home, he intends to keep his distance from the ravishing creature. Yet when danger threatens her, he cannot sit by and allow her to be harmed. Every moment in her presence is sweet torture, and soon the need he has kept caged for years refuses to be contained any longer.

Swept together by burning desire but ensnared in a tangle of secrets and guilt, Lilias and Nash must fight to turn tragedy into triumph and the past that threatens to destroy them into the very thing that heals their hearts.

••••••••

REVIEW:Lady Lilias and the Devil in Plaid is the second novel in this series. It’s the story of Lady Lilias Honeyfield and Nash Steele, Duke of Greyborne.

They met as children/teenagers in Cotswolds, England. Lilias, Owen, and Nash became friends. It started when she and Owen (Earl of Blackwood and future Marquess of Craven) were crossing the River Eye on a log. Lilias was barefoot and wanting to show Owen a special spot she liked. Nash was standing near the bridge, watching. He saw her fall in and dove in to help. She was panicked and ended up breaking his nose with a kick, but he managed to get them out of the water, while Owen watched from the bank. Owen tried to be protective of Lilias, but she was having none of it. She was determined to make Nash their friend. He told them no more than his first name and left them, trying to keep to himself.

Nash was still reeling from his twin brother’s death a year earlier. He had always been told to let his brother Thomas win and to protect him. Thomas was born with weak lungs and a twisted leg. He was smaller than Nash, so his parents task Nash with trying to make Thomas feel better. Which got to be a little much, so one winter day Nash rebelled when Helen, their doctor’s daughter, was visiting and flirting with him. He kissed her, knowing Thomas liked her. Thomas got angry and charged out on the ice to stop Nash and fell through the ice. Nash dove in and tried to save Thomas but couldn’t find him in the murky freezing water. Nash now carries the idea that he doesn’t deserve to be happy…

That’s the very basic setup. There is so much more to this backstory, but I love the details and you really need to read all that happened for yourself.

Nash goes away to school, and only remains in contact with Owen. He feels he has no right to feel the way he does about Lilias and that Owen would be better for her. Over time, Owen tells him Lilias doesn’t ask about him and that she’s told Owen she loves him. Not just exaggerations but outright lies. Seven years later the inevitable begins when Nash comes home.

Julie Johnstone has created a wonderful story of such heartache and yet hope. The first novel in this series was wonderful and this one follows that path. The characters are unique, and each has much in their background to make their actions logical. It’s a wonderful tale of the times and yet shows the heartfelt stirrings of what a woman (and sometimes the men) sacrificed to their society. The conversations are rich and fun. The circumstances are interesting and add real depth to the storyline when the main characters find out much of what their parents were going through as well. It’s a fabulous read and I simply cannot wait for the next in this series.

Click HERE for Georgianna’s review of book one LADY GUINEVERE AND THE ROGUE WITH A BROGUE

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Georgianna

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Author Julie Johnstone first fell in love with romance fifteen years ago when she picked up her first romance novel in an airport gift shop on the way to Conroe, Texas for a family reunion and spent her whole weekend reading rather than water skiing, which up until then was one of her favorite things to do.

Julie is staying up way too late and typing furiously on her keyboard to finish her next book or blog with her fellow authors at Ladyscribes. Julie is married to an amazing lawyer and when she is not running her two precocious children to one activity or another she is trying to seek out some time to stay in shape and see her dearest friends.

Julie Johnstone is graciously offering an ebook copy of LADY LILIAS AND THE DEVIL IN PLAID to ONE (1) lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe.

1. If you have not previously registered at The Reading Cafe, please register by using the log-in at the top of the page (side bar) or by using one of the social log-ins.

IMPORTANT: If you are having difficulty commenting after logging onto the site, please CLICK on the title, and it should take you directly to the post.

2. If you are using a social log-in, please post your email address with your comment.

3. Follow Julie Johnstone on Facebook.

4. LIKE us on FACEBOOK and then click GET NOTIFICATION under ‘liked’ for an additional entry.

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6. Please FOLLOW us on GOODREADS for an additional entry.

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8. Giveaway is open internationally

9. Giveaway runs from November 8-13, 2020

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Hollywood Enigma (Hollywood Name Game 5) by Alexa Aston-a review

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Hollywood Enigma (Hollywood Name Game 5) by Alexa Aston-a review

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ABOUT THE BOOK : Release Date October 29, 2020.

She’s a legal shark—sleek and deadly—but doesn’t trust anyone beyond her small circle of family and friends.

He’s internationally famous—and yet a mystery to the world as he cloaks himself in privacy.

Can they shed their fears and open their hearts to one another?

Actor Wynn Gallagher is at the peak of his fame, playing superhero Carbon Man in the Alpha Tharra Universe film franchise. While the role has made him wealthy, he’s ready to move on to newer challenges—but his ironclad contract will keep him tied to the role for years to come. Seeking legal advice, he approaches Scarlett Corrigan, one of the top entertainment attorneys in Los Angeles.

Scarlett is the younger sister of Hollywood’s highest paid actor, Rhett Corrigan, but she’s made a name for herself in entertainment law. She thrives on challenges and readily accepts Wynn as a client, but she puts the brakes on the strong attraction between them, not wanting to mix business with pleasure.

Eventually, Wynn and Scarlett become involved but tragedy strikes not once, but twice, threatening to end their relationship before it has a chance to grow and flourish.

Can Wynn and Scarlett overcome overwhelming odds and find lasting love?

Hollywood Enigma is the fifth and final book in the Hollywood Name Game series. Each book in the series is a standalone story that can be enjoyed out of order.

••••••••

REVIEW: Hollywood Enigma is the fifth and final storyline in this marvelous series (The Hollywood Name Game). Like the others, I kept waiting for the interesting and unique storylines to fade…not a bit! This story is as poignant and well done as the others.
This is the story of Wynn (Youngblood) Gallagher and Stephanie Corrigan.

Wynn is called an enigma in Hollywood because he doesn’t join in on the party lifestyle. He keeps pretty much to himself except when shooting his incredibly successful Carbon Man superhero movies or doing the necessary marketing appearances. His parents died in a car crash when he was in college. Betrayed badly, just as he wanted to propose, he doesn’t trust women much, hence he keeps to himself.

His closest contacts are his brother Del and his younger sister, Cady who lost a leg in the car crash that killed his parents (his other brother, Payne, died of cancer a few years prior). His sister handles his social and other personal business, as his assistant.

He has lots of money, due to Del’s legal and financial management of his career. However, he’s bored with the role and fears never getting to do more kinds of roles but getting out of the ironclad contract seems all but impossible. Del told him he needs an entertainment lawyer (Del’s actual field is family law.). Googling entertainment lawyers, Stephanie Corrigan’s name comes up and he likes what he reads about her success. She’s also the sister of Rhett Corrigan, Wynn’s idol. He has donated to Rhett’s charity for years, but never gone to the events. He has Cady pull some strings and accept a late invite, with the stipulation that he sits with Stephanie for dinner.

Stephanie Corrigan is 34. She’s known as a legal shark and has become one of the most successful lawyers in her field. She works at a very prestigious firm, which gives her as many problems as it does money. She dates frequently, but never seems to get close to anyone for more than a short time. However, her biological clock has begun to tick louder recently. All her friends and family are settling down and having families of their own. She wants to have children too and is willing to go it alone if she doesn’t find “Mr. Right” soon. When she sends her latest romance prospect to the curb and gets seated next to Wynn Gallagher at her brother’s charity event, not just sparks but fireworks fly! Yes, she wants to take him on as a client, but the attraction is just too strong to keep it strictly professional.

That’s pretty much the basic setup. There is so much more to all the details of this, but you need to enjoy it for yourself. Enjoy it you will, I promise. There is so much to this final storyline. It has the steamy romance, the wonderful and fun conversations as these two characters find their way to love. As always, tragedy and danger are a part of the package as well. It’s given me tears to know there won’t be more in this series. However, as creative as Alexa Aston is, I’m confident the future will be bright.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
Hollywood Heartbreaker
Hollywood Flirt
Hollywood Player
Holly Double

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Georgianna S

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Summer Warrior by Regan Walker-Dual Review & Interview

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Summer Warrior (The Clan Donald Saga #1) by Regan Walker-Dual Review & Interview

 

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 7, 2020

Somerled’s parentage was noble, of the Kings of Dublin, the royal house of Argyll and the great Ard Ri, the High Kings of Ireland. But when the Norse invaded Argyll and the Isles, his family’s fortunes fell with those of his people. All hope seemed lost when he rose from the mists of Morvern to rally the Gaels, the Scots and the Irish.

Sweeping across Argyll and the Isles like a fast-moving storm, brilliant in strategy and fearless in battle, Somerled began retaking his ancestral lands, driving away the invaders and freeing the people from the Norse stranglehold. In doing so, he would win the title Somerle Mor, Somerled the Mighty, Lord of Argyll, Kintyre and Lorne and, eventually, Lord of the Isles.

This is the unforgettable story of his path to victory that forged the Kingdom of the Isles and won him the heart of a Norse king’s daughter.

•••••••

Sandy’s REVIEW: SUMMER WARRIOR is the first instalment in Regan Walker’s THE CLAN DONALD SAGA historical fiction series.

Lord Somerled MacGillebride, the new leader of the Gaels in the aftermath of an attack against the MacInnes Clan, and the resulting death of their Chief, must undertake a journey to stop the advance of, and the raping and pillaging by the Norse pirates along the coastal waters of Scotland and the Kingdoms of the Isles. Born of a Norse mother and a Gael father, Somerled, of the royal house of Argyll, Kintyre and Lorne, set about to reclaim his family’s fortune, name and ancestral lands where he will come face to face with his future in the guise of Ragnhild, the Princess of Man, daughter of Olaf the Red, King of Man. But a potential war between England and the Scots is on the horizon, and Lord Somerled had previously pledged his support to King David and the Scots, and with the promise comes the likelihood and implied call to duty.

Meanwhile, Ragnhild Olafsdottir, the Princess of Man, chatelaine and daughter of King Olaf the Red, has fallen for our story line hero but King Olaf has bided his time in offering his daughter’s hand in marriage. With more than one suitor vying for her affection, Ragnhild must abide by her father’s wishes but secretly pines for a man whose duty first is to another king and people. Ragnhild is a beautiful, independent and strong willed female who knows her time with her father’s family may be coming to an end. Hoping to reclaim the lands for his son Prince Henry, King David’s call to arms gathers the Chiefs and clans, many of whom will not survive the war.

SUMMER WARRIOR, inspired by historical accounts, is the fictionalized retelling of Lord Somerled MacGillebride, Ragnhild the Princess of Man, and the war between King David and the Scots. Regan Walker’s world building is beautiful, magical and intricate; lifelike and credible. The romance between Ragnhild and Somerled takes a backseat to the wondrous imagery, yet, the attraction is tangible and unmistakable. A captivating and delightful story SUMMER WARRIOR is a fantasy for the mind.

________

Georgianna’s REVIEW: Summer Warrior is a story of historical fiction. The research for this story is excellent and detailed. The author really delves into the time period and marries research with the ability to weave a unique storyline.

The story begins in summer of 1135 A.D. off the coast of the Isle of Man. Somerled MacGillebride, a noble in the royal house of Argyll whose father and many warriors had been defeated by the Norse pirates, sailed near the Isle of Man on his way home. He spotted a white horse galloping across the plain above him and wondered at the rider. A girl with flaming red hair rode like the wind. His brother told him she was the daughter of King Olaf. He thought her spirit was one to be coveted, but he had lost all his lands and had nothing to offer the king for her hand.

Ragnhild, King Olaf’s daughter rode like the wind, running from the hint of marriage to Rognvald Kolsson, Earl of Orkney. She thought he was an evil man and that he’d murdered or had murdered his cousin to gain the title. He looked at her with lustful looks, and she knew he would ask her father for her hand. Her stepmother had just given birth to a male child and wanted her gone.

Okay, that’s pretty much the set-up, except that Somerled was approached by the MacInnes men after their chief had been slain by Norse pirates. They wanted him to lead them all in driving out the pirates and freeing them from Norse oppression.
This is a well-researched saga of the Clan Donald, its founding and recapturing the isles from the Norse. There are battles, wars, and castle building. The romance is light, with only one stolen kiss, but many thoughts of each other as Somerled gains titles and lands to gain the hand of the princess.

If you enjoy historical period adventures and world building, this is a fantastically bold story. The two are meant for each other, but there are no love scenes of stolen moments or anything like that. The love is chaste and yet fulfilling. The isles are well described, the characters are unique and the conversations realistic. The adventures are fierce and many.

Copies supplied for review

TRC:   Hi, Regan and welcome back to The Reading Café. Congratulations on the release of SUMMER WARRIOR.

We would like to start with some background information. Would you please tell us something about yourself?

Follow: Website /Amazon Author page /Facebook /Goodreads /Twitter/

I am a lawyer turned writer (though I still practice law on a part time basis). I love reading stories set deep in history and that led me to write my first novel, a Regency, in 2011. Since then, more Regencies followed and then I ventured into other eras. First it was the Middle Ages with the Medieval Warriors series set in England and Scotland and then it was the Georgian era (late 18th century) with dashing sea captains. I am just beginning a new series, The Clan Donald Saga. Book 1 is Summer Warrior.

TRC:  Who or what influenced your career in writing?

I was always a writer but I didn’t always write fiction. I suppose my good friend, Judy, influenced me to go in that direction. She urged me to write one. That led to Racing with the Wind, my first Regency. Ultimately, my love for the ocean led me to write seafaring stories. Every morning, my dog, Cody, and I take walks on the beach. It is very soothing to the soul.

TRC:  What challenges or difficulties did you encounter writing and publishing your first book?

There weren’t many, really. I had to get used to being inside a character’s head but I discovered I loved storytelling. Some of my books have given me pains in the middle when I’m not sure where they should go. Since my books are all based on real history, that usually helps guide me. I love research, so that is not a problem.

TRC:  Would you please tell us something about the premise of SUMMER WARRIOR?

Since Summer Warrior is the first in the series and sets the foundation for all that follow, its central character is Somerled, the acknowledged founder of Clan Donald. The heroine, Ragnhild, daughter of the King of Man and the Isles, was a beauty and Somerled was smitten. He was, for all I could learn, a handsome charismatic leader, respected by the people of Argyll and the Isles. He built an independent Kingdom of the Isles and freed the people from the Norse stranglehold. When you are writing about the 12th century, there is a dearth of original sources. I read all the ones I could get my hands on and got all the books that spoke of the clan’s history (I have over 40 books for the series and that’s doesn’t account for my Google Books searches and my Internet research). The Internet sources conflict and are not reliable in all cases, however.

TRC:  What kind of research/plotting did you do, and how long did you spend researching /plotting before beginning SUMMER WARRIOR?

I did research for weeks before I wrote anything. And the research didn’t stop after that. Often, I had to look up something while I was writing. I’m very visual so it’s important for me to know what things look like (there is a Pinterest storyboard for Summer Warrior: https://www.pinterest.com/reganwalker123/the-clan-donald-saga-by-regan-walker/). I don’t plot but I do follow a historical timeline.

TRC:  Do you believe authors have a responsibility to be historically accurate when writing an fictional historical story line?

Let me put it this way, stories that are historically accurate are the ones I want to read. I know some readers don’t care. I do.

TRC:  Do you believe the cover image plays a deciding factor for many readers in the process of selecting a book or new series to read?

Absolutely. Covers will make me want to read a book and they will make me not want to read a book. Titles are also important. Titles that are flip or too cute tell me the author isn’t committed to historical authenticity. I always design my cover very early in the process, when I’m just beginning to write and then I write to the cover.

TRC:  When writing a storyline, do the characters direct the writing or do you direct the characters?

Both. I get them in the place and in the scene and then they surprise me. One editor told me I was easy to work with because I knew my characters so well. I think that I do.

TRC:  The mark of a good writer is to pull the reader into the storyline so that they experience the emotions along with the characters. What do you believe a writer must do to make this happen? Where do you believe writer’s fail in this endeavor?

We must bring our characters to life, showing their hopes and their dreams along with their failures and fears so readers can identify with them. I like to make my heroines inspiring but realistic and my heroes noble of heart and drool-worthy. (I wrote a post on Rogues Who Make Readers Sigh: https://reganromancereview.blogspot.com/2019/02/rogues-who-make-readers-sigh.html.) We fail if we make our characters superficial or trite.

TRC:  Do you listen to music while writing? If so, does the style of music influence the storyline direction? Characters?

Yes and the music changes based on the era in which my book is set. For Summer Warrior, I listened to Nordic music and some medieval playlists depending on the scene. Music puts me in the era. And when I begin to play that music, it also brings me into my story. I don’t change the music for the characters but I do change the music for fight scenes and sea battles.

TRC:  What do you believe is the biggest misconception people have about authors?

Oh gosh. That’s a difficult one to answer. I know one of my friends told me she envied me my sex life (many of my Regencies have a graphic love scene or two). I laughed and told her that was all imagination. So, I suppose some readers think we have lived what we write about; not so.

TRC:   What is something that few, if anyone, know about you?

Here’s the short list: I was the football team mascot in high school (a dynamite stick). I learned to ride a motorcycle on an antique Velocette bike. I own a hand gun and shoot well. As a lawyer, people would be surprised to know I am a romantic, though you can see it in my stories. I have also served at high levels of government and some of that helped me understand the role of the Crown in my novels.

Antique Velocette:

TRC:  Who is your favorite author (living or dead)?

I have a list on my blog; it’s pretty long. For historical romance, the short list would include Virginia Henley, Kathleen Givens, Jan Cox Speas, Penelope Williamson, Joanna Bourne, Victoria Holt, Elizabeth Stuart, and Laurie McBain, to name a few. For historical fiction, it is probably Elizabeth Chadwick, who always has a love story or two in her novels.

TRC:  On what are you currently working?

Now that Summer Warrior is launched, I’m doing research for the next in the series, which I expect will be set in 13th century Scotland.

TRC:  Would you like to add anything else?

I have an award-winning blog, Historical Romance Review: https://reganromancereview.blogspot.com/

LIGHTNING ROUND

Favorite Food: seafood

Favorite Dessert: chocolate or coffee ice cream

Favorite TV Show: I don’t watch TV, only Amazon Prime and Netflix and those would be historical series or movies; I get my news on the Internet

Last Movie You Saw: Outlaw King

Dark or Milk Chocolate: Dark 70%

Secret Celebrity Crush: Sean Connery (at any age)

Last Vacation Destination: The Scottish Highlands (and I hope to go back next spring)

Do you have any pets? Yes. My dog, Cody, a 3-year-old wirehaired pointing griffon. He’s wonderful.

Last book you read: Sharon Kay Penman’s Time and Chance

Thank you Regan for taking the time to answer our questions. Congratulations on the release of SUMMER WARRIOR. We wish you all the best.

My links:

 

 

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Her Night With the Duke by Diana Quincy-a review

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HER NIGHT WITH THE DUKE (Clandestine Affairs #1) by Diana Quincy-a review

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Chapters Indigo / Google Play

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date September 29, 2020

Desire knows no reason…

When Lady Delilah Chambers finds herself stranded at a country inn on a rain-swept evening, she’s forced to fend off a group of ruffians with the help of a handsome gentleman. Irresistibly drawn to each other, Leela and the stranger spend one reckless night in each others’ arms—and then go their separate ways. But the very next day Leela receives the shock of her life when she meets the duke who is set on wedding her beloved stepdaughter.

When it finds two destined hearts…

One night isn’t enough with a woman as fierce, fiery, and brilliant as Leela. Elliot Townsend, Duke of Huntington, cannot believe his good fortune when their chance encounter leads to an unforgettable evening of passion. Yet Hunt’s luck runs out when he is introduced to his prospective mother-in-law. Dowagers aren’t supposed to look like this…

Leela and Hunt are determined to keep each other at arm’s length, which should be easy enough for two intelligent adults with reputations to uphold. The problem is all logic is lost when it comes to a passion that refuses to be ignored.

•••••••

REVIEW:Her Night with the Duke is a historical romance set in September of 1814, in central England. The book description sets up the story well. There is much more in the details of their encounter, but it needs to be read and experienced.

Lady Delilah Chambers is Persian born, but married a marquess. She couldn’t have children, but he had children from a previous marriage. She was asked to leave by her stepson and has been traveling around the world and writing under a pen name. She has her own funds and doesn’t usually sleep with strange men. This affair is unusual for her. She’s quite taken with Elliott Townsend but doesn’t know he’s the new Duke of Huntington.

Elliot Townsend is the new Duke of Huntington. His brother inherited the title but was drowned. Elliot was traveling alone, disguised as a common businessman for safety’s sake. He’s a very uncomplicated man, usually. He likes structure. Dislikes surprises. He tries to keep away from any form of scandal, unlike his brother did. Meeting and sleeping with a strange woman was also unusual for him.

The level of chemistry and pleasure was off the charts for both. Each was completely taken by surprise at how much they’d experienced in so short a time. So the surprise was even greater when they met again as he came to get to know her stepdaughter and ask for her hand.

That’s pretty much the setup. This is a fast paced, interesting story. It’s very cleverly written, and I found it incredibly entertaining. Complications abound, as you can imagine. Grab a glass of your favorite beverage and cuddle in for a great read.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Georgianna S.

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Hollywood Player / Hollywood Double by Alexa Aston-Reviews

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Hollywood Player / Hollywood Double (Hollywood Name Game #3 & #4) by Alexa Aston-a review

HOLLYWOOD PLAYER
Hollywood Name Game #3
by Alexa Aston
Release Date: September 17, 2020

ebook ONLY 99¢ USD Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk / Amazon.au /

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date September 17, 2020

She has zero friends . . . and is wary of men, living life as a recluse.

His only friend is 90 and when she dies, he’s adrift.

Can a dyslexic actor and a shy loner find happiness together?

Famous from the time she was fourteen, London Russell lands the cover of Sports Illustrated to cap off her modeling career. Leaving the fashion world behind, she follows her dream of becoming a singer-songwriter. Thanks to an ex-boyfriend’s vicious attack on her, London becomes a recluse who turns out hits but never tours—and can’t trust a man. Her life changes course when she encounters a Hollywood screenwriter and director and agrees to write the theme song for their next movie.

Knox Monroe grew up as America’s darling, a child actor featured on several popular television series. After his mother’s betrayal, Knox drops out of sight, returning years later to make the successful transition to adult roles. A known womanizer and loner, Knox meets London by chance. Through her connections, he winds up with the lead role in a new movie.

Will London be able to open her heart and move past Knox’s player reputation? And will Knox knock down the emotional fortress that he’s built around his heart?

In Hollywood, anything’s possible. . .

••••••••

REVIEW: Hollywood Player is the third novel in this magnificent series by Alexa Aston. Usually, as novels come out in a series you can either see the same plots or they don’t live up to the previous novels. Not so in this series. This talented author brings each novel to us as a uniquely plotted story and yet some of the characters revisit adding familiarity to the newly created and individual personalities.

Hollywood Player is the story of London Russell and Knox Monroe. The backstories on these two characters is simply a work of pure art (no I won’t tell you the details). I fell madly in love with them. If ever love at first sight happened, it’s with these two (even if they weren’t sure at first, you will be). A lovely angel named Agnes had something to do with it, I’m sure.

These two do wonderful healing of each other and each is their best when they are together. The course to love never runs smoothly. It’s heartrending when things go bad. Due to personal tragedy, love overcomes hurt and pride and love is the winner of the game.

As a bonus, you get a little insight into the world of movie making and music. This is a sure fire, don’t want to miss a minute, page turner. Once you begin this read, you won’t want to put it down until the final page. Yes, Virginia, it’s just that good!

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
Hollywood Heartbreaker
Hollywood Flirt

____________

HOLLYWOOD DOUBLE
Hollywood Name Game #4
by Alexa Aston
Release Date: October 8, 2020

ebook only 99¢ Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk / Amazon.au /

ABOUT THE BOOK:

She’s a Hollywood leading lady who’s never found love – except with Jax, her Basenji.

He’s divorced from a cheating wife and refuses to ever give his heart away again.

Together, their smoking-hot chemistry leads to movie magic . . . and murder . . .

Mac Randall’s life turns upside down when he walks in on his wife and her lover. He finishes his tour of duty overseas and leaves the army, becoming a popular stuntman in Hollywood. When the actor Mac doubles for is murdered, Mac is surprised to find himself cast as the film’s leading man—at the suggestion of the actress who will play opposite him.

Keely Kennedy has built a solid career in Hollywood, rising from supporting roles to leading lady, but she’s been unlucky in love. She becomes close friends with Mac Randall, her new co-star, while she helps him prepare for his first on-screen role. Friendship blossoms into love during their shoot and despite several mishaps on the set, she knows not only has she done the best work in her career on this film, but she believes Mac will become an instant star.

Before production is complete, though, the murderer surfaces—ready to kill the film—and its two stars.

•••••••

REVIEW: Hollywood Double is the fourth novel in this profoundly moving and interesting series by Alexa Aston. I don’t know how she manages to outshine each previous episode with the next in her series, but she does. This one is a truly remarkable love story as well as an amazing look into the Hollywood movie industry. It’s also a murder mystery as well as an extortion crime. Try wrapping all that into an entertaining and witty read!

This is the story of Keely Kennedy, a marvelously talented actress and Mac (Mackenzie) Randall, ex-soldier and stunt man/actor.

Keely has pretty much given up on love and concentrated on her career, after several attempts at love that resulted in a broken heart and dreams.

Mac was a soldier and married young, but his army nurse wife was injured by a bomb, then betrayed him in the worst possible way, then dies of cancer. He’s tired of fighting and stumbles onto a career in doing stunts on movies. He’s given up on women and love not looking to change that.

They meet, quite by chance and sparks begin to fly! When the male lead in a new movie Keely is in is murdered, opportunity presents itself for Mac and the game is afoot!

A familiar cast of characters from the previous novels lend a wonderful family and professional feel to the plot as it twists and turns in unexpected and dangerous ways.

How does Alexa Aston manage to write such exciting and yet romantic stories with such profoundly heartfelt themes? God, I wish I knew. This talented storyteller is a master of her craft and continues to astound me with each new novel. If you haven’t read this series…what the heck are you waiting for? It simply doesn’t get much better than this.

Copies supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Georgianna S

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Lady Guinevere and the Rogue with a Brogue by Julie Johnstone

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Lady Guinevere and the Rogue with a Brogue (Scottish Scoundrels: Ensnared Hearts #1) by Julie Johnstone-Review & Giveaway


Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk / Amazon.au /B&N Paper /

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date August 20, 2020

Five years ago he humiliated her. Five years ago she betrayed him. And when fate forces them together once more, they’ll discover what burns hotter—vengeance or desire.

Lady Guinevere Darlington has spent the last five years trying to forget the beautiful rogue who stole her heart and then crushed it under his shiny black hessian. Humiliated by the blighter with the unforgettable brogue and left to weather the wagging tongues of the ton alone, she started a secret society that delivers justice to ill-intentioned rakes, and she managed to avoid having to wed—until now. But while her time is up, her determination is not. If she must take a husband, she’ll do so on her own terms. She has a plan, and a possible candidate, until the Scot she once loved returns to London and throws her life into salacious turmoil yet again.

Asher Talbot, the newly minted Duke of Carrington, has nearly perfected his ability to repress memories of the stunning, stubborn lass who long ago captivated him with her innocent charm, then slayed him with her duplicity. He channeled his anger into continuing to build the distillery empire he started when he thought he was a by-blow. But now his company is in danger, and he intends to secure his inheritance to save it, even if it requires pursuing the perfidious enchantress he disavowed. True reconciliation is not part of his plot, but hints of the Guinevere he thought he knew leave him questioning everything.

When fate, fortune, and a cunning scheme bring these two together, their mutual attempts to torture each other ignite the dormant desire between them. But secrets surround them, and they’ll have to unravel each one before the love they glimpsed is lost forever.

••••••

REVIEW: This historical romance is set in Kensington, England 1837.

This is the story of Lady Guinevere Darlington and Asher, the new Duke of Carrington, and what a story it is.

While I won’t give away the story, I can tell you what I loved about it and why I think it’s such a marvelous read.

It’s quickly paced, from the very beginning. The two main characters have met before, in fact they pretty much fell in in love. However, many others conspired for their own ends and the beginning love ended in Asher marrying one of Guinevere’s friends Elizabeth. Neither has discovered the conspiracies that kept them apart. Fate, not to be undone, changed the playing field. Elizabeth died in childbirth and Asher inherited his grandfather’s title if he marries one of three women. Yes, Guinevere is on the list. And the game is afoot!

Asher’s distillery is in financial straits and he needs the money he will inherit if he marries on of the three women his grandfather wants. Guinevere is still heartbroken over the last romance they had and is reluctant to be hurt yet again. Other conspiracies still abound.

Here’s what I really loved about this intricate and beautifully written tale. The plot is well done with many unusual twists. The characters are unique and have deep hurts and fears of their own. The banter and conversations are incredible and fun. The villains are not necessarily extremely evil, just working toward their own ends, but throwing some real monkey wrenches into the love story.

The interactions between the two main characters is most beguiling. You want to sit them down and explain a few things to them…

In all, I found it a very entertaining read and I highly recommend you give it a read. It’d most unusual and hard to put down, so be prepared to read it all at once, I had to!

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Georgianna S

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Author Julie Johnstone first fell in love with romance fifteen years ago when she picked up her first romance novel in an airport gift shop on the way to Conroe, Texas for a family reunion and spent her whole weekend reading rather than water skiing, which up until then was one of her favorite things to do.

Julie is staying up way too late and typing furiously on her keyboard to finish her next book or blog with her fellow authors at Ladyscribes. Julie is married to an amazing lawyer and when she is not running her two precocious children to one activity or another she is trying to seek out some time to stay in shape and see her dearest friends.

Julie Johnstone is graciously offering an ebook copy of LADY GUINEVERE AND THE ROGUE WITH THE BROGUE to ONE (1) commenter at The Reading Cafe.

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9. Giveaway runs from September 12-16, 2020

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