Manifesting Love Club

Last fall I was working on a romance with a working title, Manifesting Love Club. I got stalled on this project when other tales with deadlines took over. I’d finished Heather’s part of the book, had started on Corecia’s love story with the other two ladies waiting their turn.

There’s been a change of plans. Instead of all four ladies falling in love in an intertwined way, they are going to be their own short stories. Heather’s story will be available next month and the other three ladies will follow.

Here’s the last snippet I’d written in Corecia’s story.

I’ll keep you posted here with news on Heather’s release.

More Beginnings, by Iris Blobel

Mimicking the old milk commercial…Got Romance?

Author Iris Blobel has romance, and lots of it. Her newest re-release is just one of her books, filled with lovable characters embroiled in the twists and turns of an elusive romance.

She stops in today to share an excerpt from More Beginnings. Thank you for joining us, Iris!

~~ More Beginnings ~~
(2^nd Edition)
by Iris Blobel

♥♦♥ BLURB ♥♦♥

Zach Taylor, an escort in Sydney, living in Hobart, enlists the help of Natasha Peterson when his teenage friend, Mia, runs away. He soon finds out that the ‘dragon’ is really more of a kitten. And although Natasha, Mia’s teacher, is attracted to him as well, she has her own problems to deal with, not to mention her initial reaction to Zach’s occupation.

Will Zach’s job keep him from a chance to be with Natasha?

Life is good for teenager Mia Levesque. But when Darren Schuster shows up in Hobart, she knows something is up once Sophie and Mark cut their weekend away short and rush home in the middle of the night. When Sophie won’t answer Mia’s questions, emotions run high, and Zach confirms Darren’s identity to Mia. Disappointed, angry, and feeling alone, Mia runs away.

Will life settle back into a routine for Mia once she finds out about the stranger in her life?

New Beginnings have given the Levesque girls a new start in life, will More Beginnings be another chance for them?

AMAZON US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071F7FPQ9/

AMAZON UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B071F7FPQ9/

AMAZON AU: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B071F7FPQ9/

♥♦♥ EXCERPT ♥♦♥

Zach Taylor’s young neighbour, Mia, let out a long sigh as she joined him on his front porch and sat next to him on the swing. Enjoying a cool lemonade, he invited her to grab a soft drink from the fridge as well. It was a warm summer day, and the air showed no sign of cooling down. A lot of people in Hobart were weary of the unusual hot spell for the very southern Australian city.

With another hefty sigh, Mia raked through her long, blond hair and stared into the distance. “Honestly, Zach, she’s a dragon. I’m sure she does it on purpose. She doesn’t like me. She thinks I’m spoilt.”

The dragon in question was Miss Peterson, Mia’s high school English teacher. There was no doubt that Mia liked school, and she enjoyed her classes. And even though English wasn’t her worst subject, it certainly was the toughest one, with Miss Peterson piling on homework one after the other.

Zach took a sip of his drink before he replied, “Hey, pumpkin, settle down. What’s that supposed to mean you’re ‘spoilt’?”

She lifted her shoulder in a slight shrug. “You know!”

Raising his brows, he replied, “Actually I don’t know! Isn’t she Sophie’s good friend?”

Another shrug. “Kind of, I suppose. They used to do the boxing stuff together, and since Soph’s carrying a baby, they go and enjoy coffee and cake instead every once in a while.”

Ignoring his chuckle, she went inside and helped herself to cold lemonade. She opened the can with a simple click as she returned outside and took a long sip.

♥♦♥ MEET THE AUTHOR ♥♦♥
IRIS BLOBEL

Iris Blobel was born and raised in Germany and only immigrated to Australia in the late 1990s. Having had the travel bug most of her life, Iris spent quite some time living in Scotland, London as well as Canada where she met her husband. Her love for putting her stories onto paper has only emerged recently, but now her laptop is a constant companion.

Iris resides west of Melbourne with her husband and her two beautiful daughters.

Next to her job at a private school, she also presents a German Program at the local Community Radio.

Social Media Links:

Click here to subscribe to Iris’ Newsletter

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IrisBlobel

Twitter: https://twitter.com/_iris_b

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4067254.Iris_Blobel

Instagram: https:/www.instagram.com/iris_blobel/

Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/iris-blobel

L: Love at First Sight

Welcome to the 2017 A to Z Blog Challenge. During the month of April, Chrys N. Jay shares snippets from friend’s books, and takes a peek at love.

Today, for ‘L’, Lindsay Downs stops by to share an excerpt from his regency romance, Love at First Sight.

Love at First Sight

Shunned by most the ladies of the ton, in particularly those of marriageable age not to mention many of the gentlemen Oliver, Viscount Oxfordshire retired to his estate. There he bred, raised and trained the best horses in all of England.

An unexpected visit from the Earl and Countess of Rosewood upsets his life when they invited him to join them in London. Reluctantly he accepted warning them that no lady would give him a second look.

At a dinner party held by his sister Oliver meets Lady Patience. As their affections for each other grow, so do veiled and not so veiled threats.

With several former rakehells and their wives it is decided they all retire to the country estate of her parent’s the Earl and Countess of Langnash. There they organize an impromptu house party. During the event the wives of the rakehells inform Lady Patience of a most unusual tradition.

Excerpt- Love at First Sight

Once the music ended he bowed to her curtsey, assisted her up, and, with her hand settled on his arm, guided her to the settees set aside for her and the other ladies. Never having been in a situation such as this, he wasn’t sure where his place was. He saw that Warren, Nash, and Justin were standing behind their wives. Oliver stepped around and took his place, resting his hand lightly on Patience’s shoulder.

“This way we may keep an eye out for any gentlemen who might wish to dance with our wives. We are very protective of them in this type of situation which they greatly appreciate,” Nash explained.

“And we tend to be the same way outside of social settings as our husbands tend to get into mischief at times,” Amelia chimed in.

“Not to mention, as you will plainly notice, we make sure our friends remain safe from intruders. For example, Viscount Clifton who is attempting to make his way here,” Warren said.

Under his hand, Oliver could sense his Patience’s shoulder tense. This told him she was aware of the man’s approach. He leaned over.

“Fear not, for he won’t do anything without causing a stir, and I’m here to protect you,” he whispered.

“I know and thank you.”

No sooner had she spoken than the man stepped up.

“My dear Patience…” was all he managed to say before being interrupted.

“Sir, you have never been introduced to Lady Patience. As such, you have never been given permission to use any form of endearment to her. Apologize at once then be gone from our sight,” Oliver demanded.

“I am Viscount Clifton, and who might you be, you crippled upstart?”

“Viscount Oxfordshire and Lady Patience’s escort. Unlike you, who will always remain a viscount, someday I will be Earl of Condiff. Now depart before I call for footmen to remove you,” he ordered.

Oliver could sense Patience attempt to rise, and for the briefest of moments considered not allowing her to, then changed his mind. He removed his hand from her shoulder.

She stood. “The viscount does have a slight disability, but he is more of a gentleman than you could ever be.” She retook her seat.

With a hidden smile, Oliver studied the man as he huffed and puffed, most likely in an attempt to come up with a reply. Oliver then noticed two burly footmen step up behind the viscount.

When the man didn’t move, Oliver nodded to the footmen, who took the viscount by the arms and easily removed him. He was more than pleased when they took the man out of the ballroom via the main staircase. That permitted everyone to witness his undignified departure.

“Dearest friend, shall we go to the ladies’ retiring room so you may collect yourself and thoughts,” Ida asked.

Oliver started to come around to the front to help her stand, but a hand stopped him. Turning his head to Warren, who shook his head, Oliver then understood this was a ladies’ thing and not to get involved. He was amazed when not only Ida but Prudence and Amelia stood and accompany Patience away as well.

Buy Links-

US- http://tinyurl.com/zwtnxx9

UK- http://tinyurl.com/hl86zw9

 

I’ve been an avid reader ever since I was old enough to hold a red leather bound first edition copy of Sir Walter Scott’s The Lady of the Lake in my lap.

So it only seemed natural at some point in my life I take up pen and paper to start writing. Over time my skills slightly improved which I attribute to my English teachers.

My breakthrough came about in the mid 1970’s when I read a historical romance written by Sergeanne Golon, Angelique. This French husband and wife team opened my eyes to the real world of fiction. Stories about romance, beautiful damsels, handsome heroes and plots which kept me hooked. Of course, being a man, I had to keep my reading hidden from others as that wasn’t appropriate reading for men.

With this new found appreciation of the written word I took up other books and devoured them as a starving person would a plate of food. I them attempted to write again. I still wasn’t satisfied so I put it aside for years as other events entered my life.

Finally, in the early years of the new millennium I tried again to write and once again met with limited success. At least now I was able to get past the first page or two. Then, in 2006 a life changing event brought me back to my love, I took a job as a security officer. This allowed me plenty of time to read different genres.

My favourite was regency. As I poured through everyone I could get my hands on I knew this could be something I wanted to attempt.

Since 2012 when my debut regency romantic suspense released I was hooked and have, except for a few contemporaries, focused on this genre.

Since 2012 I’ve lived in central Texas. I’m also a member of Romance Writers of America and the Austin, TX chapter.

 

Where you can find me-

Facebook- http://tinyurl.com/pgq8vzz

Facebook Pages-         http://tinyurl.com/nresq5j

Twitter- @ldowns2966

LinkedIn- http://tinyurl.com/e8t56

Goodreads-http://tinyurl.com/prcdmml

Lindsay Downs-Romance Author- http://tinyurl.com/kvfz468

Amazon- http://tinyurl.com/ktem76c

 

H: The Heartbreaker

Welcome to the 2017 A to Z Blog Challenge. During the month of April, Chrys N. Jay shares snippets from friend’s books, and takes a peek at love.

Today, for ‘H’, Tricia Anderson stops by to share an excerpt from her MMA romance, The Heartbreaker.

The Heartbreaker

Braden, Iowa is the last place on earth Reese Cooper wanted to be but a devastating injury in the octagon forces the MMA fighter back to the small town he once called home. He barely steps foot on Main Street before he is reunited with Lily Dixon, the town librarian and the girl who possessed his heart since they were in kindergarten.
Every day in Braden is the same for Lily Dixon. That is until Reese Cooper walks back into her life. With his chiseled, perfect body and dreamy blue eyes, he steals her heart just like he did when they were kids. His kisses, his touch are far better than any fantasy she’s ever had. Is she willing to risk everything when her preacher father finds out about her love affair with the town bad boy? And what will happen when Reese goes back to Vegas, leaving her alone in Braden without him?

Here’s an excerpt from The Heartbreaker:

Both women turned as there was another knock at the door. “Miss Dixon?”
Lily smiled. “Yes, Elijah. Come in.”
The high school boy with blond hair and wire rimmed glasses peeked his head around the corner. He had nearly as many freckles as Molly. “Miss Dixon, a gentleman has asked your help looking for a book.” Elijah’s voice dropped to a near whisper. “I think he’s one of those guys in those MMA magazines. He sure looks like it.”
Lily felt her mouth go dry. She fought to find her voice. “You can help him, Elijah.”
“He asked for you specifically, Miss Dixon.”
Lily slowly exhaled. Her heart started to pound again as her knees went weak. “All right, Elijah. I’ll be there in a moment.”
“Good luck,” Molly grinned.
“Thanks.” Lily forced a weak smile on her face as she slipped out of her office and followed the boy between the shelves. She stopped dead in her tracks as she reached the circulation desk.
Reese leaned against the desk as he thumbed through a book. Activity in the library had stopped as everyone stared at the town legend. He glanced up at her. The smile he flashed at her was simply dazzling. Lily cleared her throat. “Can I help you?”
Reese set the book back on the desk. “Well, Miss Dixon, I would like to check out a book to read while I recuperate. I was hoping you would have a suggestion.”
Lily lost herself in his blue eyes for several moments before shaking herself free. “What are you interested in, Mr. Cooper?”
He shrugged. “Sports. Mystery. Horror. Something fictional. Facts and figures bore me.”
“Why don’t we start in the horror section and see if something tickles your fancy there?”
“Tickles my fancy, huh?”
Lily could feel her face flush hot. Great, he thinks I’m a backwards hick now. Fantastic. “Just follow me please.”
She led Reese past tables of gawking teens towards the back of the library. They weaved in between the rows and rows of shelves until they reached a set labeled “horror”. Lily breezed her finger across the spines. “There’s good old Stephen King. Or maybe you’d be interested in an author like Jack Ketchum.”
“One of those might tickle my fancy, huh?”
Lily slowly exhaled as she felt her temper rise. He doesn’t have to mock me. “I suppose.”
She caught the gasp in her throat as he pressed tight against her, her skin able to make out the hard contours of his body. His breath was warm on her neck as he brushed a curl off her shoulder. “I know there’s something that can tickle my fancy in this aisle.” He reached over her and tugged a couple novels off the top shelf. His lips brushed the curve of her ear as his hand settled at his side still clutching the books. She shuddered at his touch.
“I’ll start with these,” he breathed.
“Let me go check them out for you,” she struggled.
“Sounds like a plan.”
Lily rushed to the check out desk sensing Reese on her heels. Her thoughts were a scramble. Did he just kiss her ear? Did he want to kiss her? Of course he didn’t. He had to have a girlfriend wherever he used to live. Las Vegas, wasn’t it? She was probably some gorgeous show girl who could rock his world in the sack.
Lily stopped short at the thought of Reese Cooper having sex. Moments later the real deal collided into her. It wasn’t the first time she thought of it. Normally though, she was the girl having sex with him in her imagination. Hours and hours of sex. Her cheeks burned again at the reminder. Reese wrapped a protective arm around her. “Are you all right?”
“Yeah. Just fine,” she gushed, grabbing the books from his hand. She slipped behind the desk and flipped each book open. “Library card?”

You can find The Heartbreaker here.

C: Carver’s Fall

Welcome to the 2017 A to Z Blog Challenge. During the month of April, Chrys N. Jay shares snippets from friend’s books, and takes a peek at love.

Today, for ‘C’, Jillian Chantal stops by to share an excerpt from her romance, Carver’s Fall.

Carver’s Fall

In 1924, Carver Fowler, a young man raised on his family’s farm in North Alabama, has long been in love with one of the girls who lives in town. Her name is Mallie Phillips. She’s never been interested in him as he seems too much like a farmer and she’s a town girl. On a dare, she asks Carver to be her date to the fall festival. When one of his friends is murdered and another young man is attacked, Carver becomes a suspect and Mallie learns he’s not a mere farm boy like she thought.

Buy link: https://www.amazon.com/Carvers-Fall-Chantal-Jillian-ebook/dp/B015K48K0C/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1487263882&sr=8-1&keywords=Carver%27s+Fall

Excerpt:

Carver Fowler turned the pumpkin around and around to assess all angles. This was serious business.  The final product had to be perfect and the best side needed to face the front.

Once he was satisfied with his choice, he opened the drawer in the rickety old workbench that served him well in his workshop. He dug around for a nub of a pencil and then opened the next drawer over. He sighed in pleasure at the array of knives.  He loved all of his tools, but his knives made him the happiest. 

He carefully selected one with a wide blade and tested the edge with the tip of his index finger. A small drop of blood pooled on the side and he sucked it off. He wiped his hand on his dusty coveralls and set the knife down.

Carver picked up the pencil and drew on the side of the pumpkin. He then picked up the knife and started to cut.

A throat clearing startled him. The knife slipped and gouged the façade of his creation. He whirled around, thinking it was his younger brother. Ready to lay into the little brat for messing up his masterpiece, he stopped short when he saw who it was.

Leaning against the weathered wooden slats of the old barn that had been converted to a woodworking shop was none other than Mallie Phillips. The girl of his dreams. Of course, she didn’t know that. But what was she doing here?

Mallie wore a long blue faded cotton dress and a pair of old Mary Jane shoes. Her stockings were dusty like she’d walked a long way. She had one knee bent and her foot rested on the wall. “Whatcha doing, Carver?”

 “What are you doing is a better question? How’d you get way out here to my daddy’s farm? Lil city gal like you don’t have no business out here in the boonies.” Carver set the knife down and wiped his brow that suddenly seemed to be manufacturing an inordinate amount of sweat. Good God, I hope I don’t smell bad. He resisted the urge to sniff his armpits, but just barely.

“My brother Joseph had some business out this way and he brought me in the wagon.”

“Why?”

Mallie came over to the workbench and picked up the knife. She used it to point at the pumpkin. “Are you carving that for the contest down at the Fall Festival this weekend?”

“I am. I think I’ve got a good idea for a very spooky fella and I’m planning to win that jackpot.”

“A jackpot for a Jack-o-lantern.” She giggled. “I like the sound of that.” She handed him the knife. “Show me what ya got, Carver Fowler.” She batted her eyelashes at him and he was lost.

He could barely speak English she stood so close and smelled so good. Just like lemon verbena.  As she continued to stare at him, he found his voice. “I can’t carve with you standing here. I can’t handle an audience. You’ll have to wait to see it at the festival.”

“I like that too, Carver.”

“What?” Embarrassed as his voice came out in a squeak, he ducked his head.

She lifted his chin with her index finger until he was looking at her. “I like that Carver is carving. See how nice that sounds? Jackpot for jack-o-lantern and Carver is carving. You have to admit it’s kind of poetic.”

“I don’t know nothing about poetry, Mallie.” Carver pulled away from her.

You can find more on Jillian Chantal here:

www.JillianChantal.com

B: Black Irish

Welcome to the 2017 A to Z Blog Challenge. During the month of April, Chrys N. Jay shares snippets from friend’s books, and takes a peek at love.

Today, for ‘B’, Tricia Anderson stops by to share an excerpt from her romance, Black Irish.

Black Irish
Abbey couldn’t believe he was gay. She nearly ran away from her dreams of being a children’s book writer when she was introduced to her illustrator Sloan O’Riley, a dark, sensual Irishman with incredible blue eyes. He certainly couldn’t be good for Abbey’s relationship with her boyfriend back in Iowa. How could she stay in New York and work with the sinfully sexy Sloan even if he was gay? And when Sloan is threatened with deportation, how far would Abbey go to keep him in the U.S.?
Sloan was forced to tell a little white lie. He had no choice. He couldn’t let the sweet, beautiful, Abbey Wright flee from his life—not without a chance to explore the sudden desire he felt for her. But what would Abbey do if she ever discovered the truth about Sloan’s sexuality—or learned the deeper, darker secret he’s been hiding?

Excerpt:
Sloan watched from a distance as Aubrey fought to keep Abbey from dashing away, a frightened doe in the terrifying forest named New York. Apparently, up to this point, the vicious predators of the city hadn’t sent her fleeing home.
Until he entered her world, obviously.
Sloan had to admit something about her alarmed him too. He knew many women and had been with many. At one time it had been a different one every few nights for months. But none of them like her. Innocent. Naïve. True. Or so she seemed at first glance.
He couldn’t pull away from her wide-eyed hazel gaze. He wanted to free her shining brown tresses from her ponytail and bury his fingers in the locks. He wanted to taste her plump rose-colored lips. He wanted to caress her curves, feel her warmth.
Sloan could hear Abbey beg for another illustrator. He heard Aubrey counter that there was none better. He was part of the deal, or there was no deal. She was ready to walk away from a contract potentially worth millions over a fear of him.
He wouldn’t let her do that. He wouldn’t let her leave his life before she ever became a part of it.
Sloan could hear Abbey beg for another illustrator. He heard Aubrey counter that there was none better. He was part of the deal, or there was no deal. She was ready to walk away from a contract potentially worth millions over a fear of him. He wouldn’t let her do that. He wouldn’t let her leave his life before she ever became a part of it.
Slowly approaching the two women at the end of the hall, Sloan asked, “Aubrey, can I have a moment please? Let us talk it out and see if we can come to an agreement.”
Aubrey looked uneasily from him to Abbey then nodded. “Sure.”
Sloan waited for Aubrey to return to the conference room. He shot a warning glare at the associates who had gathered to watch the scene unfold before turning his attention back to Abbey.
“What’s the matter, miss?” Sloan took Abbey’s hands in his as he smiled encouragingly.
“I’m sorry. I’m sure you’re very talented. But I don’t think I would be comfortable working with you,” she confessed.
“You don’t even know me.”
“I know.” He watched her gaze wander across him. He could have sworn he saw her shudder. “This whole thing is overwhelming. I don’t think it’s for me.”
“You won’t know unless you try.”
Abbey’s voice came out a soft moan. “I would certainly like to try.” She shook her head. “I’m sorry to waste your time, Mr. O’Riley.”
Sloan caught her hand in his before she could escape. “Then don’t waste my time.”
“Let me go.”
“Give me a legitimate reason why.”
Abbey’s mouth opened in protest then snapped shut. Finally she huffed. “I don’t need to.”
“I believe you do. If you leave, I lose fifty thousand dollars. So I think you owe me fifty thousand reasons.”
“Are you serious?”
“Deadly.”
“Reason one. You’re an ass.”
Sloan chuckled. It helped hide the burning lust building in his core. “You’ve got quite a mouth, lass.”
“I’m just getting started.”
“Does your man approve of such language?”
“My boyfriend…” Her words trailed off as her eyes grew wide. She ripped her hand from his grip as she looked away.
Ah. There it is. I hit the nerve. A boyfriend. Sloan silently berated himself. He should’ve known a woman so beautiful would have already given her heart to someone. He couldn’t, however, allow her to get away so quickly. He was almost willing to surrender to her naïve beauty alone. But after this hellion laid into him he wasn’t about to let her go.
Thinking quickly, Sloan pressed one of her hands to his lips. “No worries, luv. I’m no threat to you or this boyfriend of yours.”
He could hear her voice quake. “I never said you were a threat.”
“Then there isn’t a reason for you to go.”
Abbey paused. “Why exactly aren’t you a threat to us?”
He smirked. “I’m gay.”
Her eyes narrowed. “Seriously?”
“Yes, Abbey. Gay. You don’t believe me?”
“I don’t know you well enough to trust you.”
“Is this all worth walking away from your dream?”
Abbey stared at him. A smile spread across her face. “No. Of course not.”
“So you will stay and undertake this project with me?”
“I would love to.”
“Then let’s go sign the contracts and get started.” Sloan motioned for her to precede him back to the conference room. He watched her walk before him, his gaze transfixed on her hips, her slim waist, and her luscious curves. So she believes I’m gay. I’ll go with it to keep her here. A little white lie. She’ll never know. At least not until I’m ready for her. And when that time comes, she’ll be mine.

Where to buy Black Irish:
Amazon

A: A Christmas Wedding

Welcome to the 2017 A to Z Blog Challenge. During the month of April, Chrys N. Jay shares snippets from friend’s books, and takes a peek at love.

Today, for ‘A’, Lindsay Downs stops by to share an excerpt from his regency romance, A Christmas Wedding.

A Christmas Wedding

Soon after being introduced to Lady Ida Lord Warren learns that someone is apparently stalking her. The purpose at first is unclear.

With Ida and her parents attending the Duchess of Fenwick annual Christmas Eve ball Warren decides he must be present to continue courting the young lady, who he is falling in love with.

When events in London become too dangerous for Ida it is recommended they, with other former rakehells and wives, retire to the Fenwick estate.

Hostilities break out between Warren and his older brother, Nash, Marquis of Renfield which is settled on the field of honor too much laughter by some.

When Mr. Godfrey, the threat to Ida and Warren’s happiness, is seen in the village take extra care in protecting Ida.

Two bodies are found. Finally, the villain is found and brought to justice allowing Ida and Warren to marry as they wish.

Buy links-

US- http://tinyurl.com/hbvbeep

UK- http://tinyurl.com/goorzmo

Excerpt- A Christmas Wedding

For Warren to write his man was a normal task as he did so every few months, considering the number of estates scattered throughout England under his protection. With his letter penned and added to the others, he started to accept a whiskey but changed his mind.

“Thank you, Tony, but no. I’d rather not, but ring for Fielding for coffee. Considering the deaths, I’m just not in the mood.”

“I don’t understand,” Tony spoke.

“Simply put, right now I need a clear head to catch the murderer, and having even a few sips of whiskey won’t help.”

“I agree, son, so I’ll ring for the butler to have a tray and cups sent up,” Thomas declared.

While waiting for the tray to be delivered Warren glanced to his brother then back to his father. He took in a breath then let it out slowly before addressing the duke.

“Sir, as we all know, a year ago this Christmas eve Nash and Amelia married. Having spoken with him and he’s in agreement father can you appeal to the Archbishop of Canterbury for a special license?”

“Son, Nash told me of your intention before he departed London so I arranged for His Holiness to issue you one.”

Angered, Warren bolted to his feet and stormed over to Nash.

“Brother, I told you that in confidence, and you have betrayed my faith and trust in you. For your failure to keep this between us I am calling you out. We shall meet on the field of honor at sunrise tomorrow. Name your second as I choose Rainer if he will stand my stead?”

“Gentlemen, I will not tolerate a duel especially when the ladies might witness such an event,” the duke demanded.

“Thomas, trust me when I say nothing untoward will happen, except one of the participant’s ego will be bruised. Warren had learned what Nash did, speaking with you so Tony, who will be his second, and I have devised a plan to humiliate both. In short, and to keep the weapon of choice a secret, the loser has to clean the winner’s horse’s stall for the duration of the house party,” Rainer said.

“Then, gentlemen, might I suggest we retire to our suites to dress for dinner. After which, I’m sure we can prevail upon several of the ladies to play the pianoforte,” the duke declared.

Later, during a waltz played by Augusta on the pianoforte, Warren glanced down to see puzzlement in Ida’s eyes. “What’s bothering you? You and Nash don’t, for whatever reason, seem to suddenly get along. I do hope it’s not to do with the murderer.”

“Trust me, my dear, it doesn’t but what will happen on the morrow. On that I’m afraid I can’t say any more.”

When the evening was called by the duchess, Ida allowed Warren to escort her to her suite door.

“Are you sure you don’t wish to tell me what’s been bothering you?” she inquired, then not getting a reply slipped into her suite.

 

I’ve been an avid reader ever since I was old enough to hold a red leather bound first edition copy of Sir Walter Scott’s The Lady of the Lake in my lap.

So it only seemed natural at some point in my life I take up pen and paper to start writing. Over time my skills slightly improved which I attribute to my English teachers.

My breakthrough came about in the mid 1970’s when I read a historical romance written by Sergeanne Golon, Angelique. This French husband and wife team opened my eyes to the real world of fiction. Stories about romance, beautiful damsels, handsome heroes and plots which kept me hooked. Of course, being a man, I had to keep my reading hidden from others as that wasn’t appropriate reading for men.

With this new found appreciation of the written word I took up other books and devoured them as a starving person would a plate of food. I them attempted to write again. I still wasn’t satisfied so I put it aside for years as other events entered my life.

Finally, in the early years of the new millennium I tried again to write and once again met with limited success. At least now I was able to get past the first page or two. Then, in 2006 a life changing event brought me back to my love, I took a job as a security officer. This allowed me plenty of time to read different genres.

My favourite was regency. As I poured through everyone I could get my hands on I knew this could be something I wanted to attempt.

Since 2012 when my debut regency romantic suspense released I was hooked and have, except for a few contemporaries, focused on this genre.

Since 2012 I’ve lived in central Texas. I’m also a member of Romance Writers of America and their local chapter.

Where you can find me-

Facebook- http://tinyurl.com/pgq8vzz

Facebook Pages-         http://tinyurl.com/nresq5j

Twitter- @ldowns2966

LinkedIn- http://tinyurl.com/e8t56

Goodreads-http://tinyurl.com/prcdmml

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New Beginnings, by Iris Blobel

The story is set in Hobart, the capital of Tasmania, the most southern state in Australia. A most beautiful place. I went there a few years back and imagined how it would be to live in this city, how to adapt as a “non-local”, and bit by bit I wrote the story of two sisters moving there.

Obviously, I added a little romance into the story as well – so I added Mark and Zach.

This is the second edition of NEW BEGINNINGS.

The story is now a bit sexier and has also received another edit.

Literary Chanteuse’s review: “This author has a way of endearing her characters and it is easy to fall in love with them. An intriguing story with emotion, love and hope.”

Sharon’s review: “This was a very enjoyable read and it left me wanting just a little bit more. I highly recommend it.”

“Other people have to fight battles in their life as well.”

~~  New Beginnings ~~

(2^nd Edition)

by Iris Blobel

 

AMAZON US: http://amzn.to/2a1BSJ7

AMAZON UK: http://amzn.to/29FTb4B

AMAZON AU: http://amzn.to/2a9yKgW

♥♦♥ SYNOPSIS ♥♦♥

The chance to start life all over with the help of a stranger.

Twenty-two-year-old Sophie Levesque has been guardian to her eight-year-old sister Mia since their mother’s death a few years ago, and it hasn’t been easy. Luck comes their way when they inherit a small house in Hobart. Problem is, though, they don’t know and have never heard of Clara Bellinger, the testator. Settling into their new life, Sophie is still afraid it’s all a mistake.

Mark O’Connor, attorney in Hobart and the bearer of the good news for Sophie and Mia, curses himself for the lack of information about the testator. However, researching the questions gives him an opportunity to see Sophie again, and the more time he spends with the two, the more he realises that his life is missing something. And it’s not his casual lover Linda.

But then there’s Zach, Sophie’s sexy neighbour from across the road… and a very good friend of Clara’s.

Will unravelling the mystery unravel Sophie and Mark’s promise of a future?

♥♦♥ EXCERPT ♥♦♥

Sophie Levesque stared at the attorney in front of her, waiting for some answers. She and her little sister, Mia, had been quietly sitting in Mr. O’Connor’s office for more than half an hour, learning about the details of their inheritance.

Once he was finished, silence hung in the air before she asked with raised eyebrows. “Who?”

“Clara Catherine Bellinger.”

Mia leaned closer to her elder sister and gave a soft tug on Sophie’s shirt. “Who is she?”

Sophie shrugged. “I wouldn’t have a clue.” Then turned her attention back on Mr. O’Connor and asked the same thing. “Who is she?”

The handsome attorney on the other side of the massive desk leaned forward and rested his elbows on it before he started to repeat his earlier speech. Although hearing his words, Sophie still found it all very hard to comprehend. Here she was in this old office, furnished with heavy antique oak furniture, the curtains in a pretty shade of aubergine, and the carpet beneath her shoes thick and warm in a matching shade, hearing about an inheritance from someone she’d never even heard of.

Startled by the subtle sound of the clock chiming across the road, Sophie’s gaze turned to the window, where she saw the post office building across the road. It looked impressive and old. It’d been only a few hours since they’d arrived in Hobart, the most southern capital in Australia, but she already liked it. A lot more than Sydney, the place she’d lived all her life.

Hauled back from her thoughts, she heard Mr. O’Connor say, “I believe she was a distant relative of yours. I’m afraid I don’t have any further details.”

Sophie arched an eyebrow in disbelief, doubting the accuracy of it all. Not only did she try not to question his competence as a lawyer, but she also hoped it wasn’t a dreadful misunderstanding.

With a slight shrug of her shoulder, she asked, “Why not?”

He met her gaze steadily. “Pardon me?”

Sitting up straight, she repeated, “Why not? Why aren’t there any further details?”

He rubbed his chin with his fingers, his unease now obvious, and although she almost felt sorry for him, she tried not to care. She needed to know more. And not just the what, but why and who as well.

Only a week earlier, Sophie had received the call from Mr. O’Connor telling her about an inheritance. Initially, she’d thought it had been a horrible joke when he’d given her details on where to pick up airplane tickets to Hobart. It was important for her to come, he’d explained. Some legality she hadn’t understood. Something about her having to sign documents for the transfer of ownership of some assets. It’d sounded too farfetched at the start, but after some research on the firm with the help of a friend, it sounded valid, and she’d hoped her life was finally turning around for the better.

♥♦♥ MEET THE AUTHOR ♥♦♥

IRIS BLOBEL

Iris Blobel was born and raised in Germany and only immigrated to Australia in the late 1990s. Having had the travel bug most of her life, Iris spent quite some time living in Scotland, London as well as Canada where she met her husband. Her love for putting her stories onto paper has only emerged recently, but now her laptop is a constant companion.

Iris resides west of Melbourne with her husband and her two beautiful daughters.

Next to her job at a private school, she also presents a German Program at the local Community Radio.

Social Media Links:

Click here to subscribe to Iris’ Newsletter

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Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4067254.Iris_Blobel

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Forever and Always: by Susanne Matthews

Forever and Always by Susanne Matthews

Publisher: Summer Solstice Publishing

Published: 2016

Review by Chrys N. Jay

Brandi Jameson has a new home, a new city and a new life. But, not by her choice.

An accident in the freezing rain took the life of her best friend and left Brandi without a career. The life of Alexandra Jameson was gone, something Brandi had worked many years to build.

In its place, most unexpectedly, this change brought a piece of her past back to her. When Jarrett Sullivan steps out of the limo, he’s even more handsome than Brandi remembered. The captain of the high school football team had been her hero many years before.

The dance at her sister’s charity holiday party starts off on a magical note. Until Celia Miller Larkin interjects a dose of venom into the evening, leaving Brandi with too many questions about Jarrett’s motives.

She reacts in a habit of self-preservation. She runs.

As Jarrett stews over his missing love, a flame he’s held in his heart for all these years, Brandi nurses her wounds and nurtures herself to get to a place where she can accept herself and her new life.

Will these two resolve their conflicts and find themselves together?

Since Susanne Matthews is a queen in the happily-ever-after genre, the final outcome must be a happy one. But in the pages between beginning and end, she leaves us wondering if they’ll be able to overcome the obstacles in their way.

This tale is told with the magical weaving of words that makes reading any Susanne Matthews book a pleasure.

You can get your copy of Forever and Always here:

Amazon USA

Amazon Canada

Amazon UK

Starting Over – TT Picture prompt

Since A Second Chance is deep in edits, this week I’m returning to an incomplete story from last year. In Starting Over, Victoria met Toby in the antique store she owns in Oak Grove Square. The man is a frustrating mix of coldhearted developer, sweet and charming hunk, and a broken-hearted little boy still mourning his grandparents.

We left off in this tale with Toby and Victoria out in the country, where they sat at the side of the snowy road looking down at his grandparent’s old farmhouse. This week we’re writing to a picture prompt, so the reading is quick – only 300 words. Return to Tuesday Tales here, to read more snippets from the talented Tuesday Tales bunch.

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

The softness in Toby’s features abruptly changed. It was if a shutter had dropped, closing off the glimpse into his heart. Next to Victoria now sat a man with no apparent feeling or emotion. She shivered, feeling like the temperature had just dropped from warm to frigid. She briskly rubbed her hands together to ward off the chilliness.

Toby turned the key and the engine roared to life. “Want to go get something warm to eat?”

“Sure…” She was deep in thought, trying to figure out what moment made him put his guard back up.

“There’s a diner not far from here. If they’re still open that is.”

She didn’t answer. She sat, examining his face as if she could find the answer there.”

The diner was still in business. The filled parking lot, miles out in the middle of nowhere, attested to how popular the little hole in the wall was. Either that, or there’s nowhere else to go out here, Victoria thought.

When the server sat the steaming meat pie down in the middle of the table, she was glad that she’d agreed to Toby’s suggestion about sharing this dish. Even more so once he broke into the crust revealing moist beef chunks surrounded by potatoes, carrots and peas in a thick, mouth-watering gravy.

They didn’t talk much as they each dug into their meal. Victoria finally slowed down enough to ask a question. “So…what are you working on this week? Find any more fields to destroy?” She laughed to show she was joking, referencing the field by her home that she’d been so upset about a few weeks earlier.

His face turned red as he stammered his reply. “No…it’s a new project…in Oak Grove.”