Today, one of my sister Roses (published by The Wild Rose Press) is revealing the cover of her upcoming release, Vanilla with a Twist. It’ll be part of our publisher’s summer series, One Scoop or Two. Isn’t it cute? Here’s the scoop (pun intended!):
Tandy Blakemore spends her days running her New England ice cream parlor, single-parenting her teenage son, and trying to keep her head above financial water. No easy feat when the shop’s machinery is aging and her son is thinking about college. Tandy hasn’t had a day off in a decade and wonders if she’ll ever be able to live a worry-free life.
Engineer Deacon Withers is on an enforced vacation in the tiny seaside town of Beacher’s Cove. Overworked, stressed, and lonely, he walks into Tandy’s shop for a midday ice cream cone and gets embroiled in helping her fix a broken piece of equipment.
Can the budding friendship that follows lead to something everlasting?
Sounds like a great summer read! Visit Peggy’s blog here for more info.
My dear friend and sister Rose (published by The Wild Rose Press) Mary Morgan is here today! We’re celebrating her new release, To Weave a Highland Tapestry, and she’s written a wonderful guest post about the legend of the yew tree. Let’s read on…
In To Weave a Highland Tapestry, I considered it time to give the hero, Patrick MacFhearguis his own “happy ever after.” He’s been a huge secondary character since my first book and series, Dragon Knight’s Sword, Order of the Dragon Knights. I sensed he was brooding at his home in Scotland. What he needed was a wife and a purpose. In truth, he has been a favorite of mine since he stepped into the first story. I made his castle, Leòmhann, as the center of this love story, along with an ancient yew tree.
Allow me to take you back in time to ancient Scotland…
When the ancient MacFhearguis clan settled near the Great Glen in Scotland, the Chieftain wished to bless the land, and his castle known as Leòmhann—the lion. Druids came from far away, bestowing their approval over stone, land, and people. Afterwards, they took part in a grand feast. Drink and food overflowed in the Great Hall. The bards recounted the great tales. Minstrels played songs of past triumphs, and the dancing and feasting lasted for countless days.
However, another tale lay buried within the stone walls of Leòmhann and only those brave enough could relate the true account.
It was whispered there were those in the clan—weavers from an ancient order from the west—not happy with the Chieftain’s refusal to offer a gift to the Fae who had graced his land before him. He deemed their request foolish and banished these irritating women to the forest.
Saddened by this act from their Chieftain, the women grew concerned the Fae would not give their own blessing over this new land, leaving their people without a compassionate and wise leader. Regardless of his order to silence them, they sought another path to right this injustice.
Gathering around a bonfire on a moonlit Samhain eve, each woman brought with them one long golden thread from their looms. On a whispered prayer, they knotted them all together. Traveling deep into the forest far away from Leòmhann, they came upon a young yew tree. As they swayed softly, the women wrapped the knotted threads around the tree. After they were finished, they joined hands and sang out as one.
“Seasons will ebb and flow—battles shall be fought.
The loom of the land shall not see rebirth.
From left to right, the strands of time will knot and break.
Only when a weaver threads the true color on a winter full moon night, shall the land, stone, and clan be cleansed.”
Smiling, they embraced each other, deeming their prayer had been received by the Fae. As the leaves rustled beneath their feet, none of them ever fathomed that the true master weaver to claim the heart of a MacFhearguis would not appear for over eight hundred years.
And as the centuries passed, the legend of the Yew tree became more of a curse, and the land around Leòmhann suffered.
A little more about To Weave a Highland Tapestry:
Patrick MacFhearguis, hardened by battles won and lost, desires what he can never have—peace within his heart and soul. Yet, the ever-meddling Fae weave a new journey for him to conquer—a task this highlander is determined to resist.
When skilled weaver, Gwen Hywel, is commissioned to create a tapestry for the MacFhearguis clan, she embraces the assignment. While seeking out ideas, she finds herself clutching the one thread that can alter the tapestry of her life and heart.
A man conflicted by past deeds. A woman with no family of her own. Is it possible for love to unravel an ancient past, in order to claim two badly scarred hearts? Or will the light of hope be doused forever?
A peek between the pages:
His kiss was urgent, demanding. Patrick thrust his tongue into her soft heat. The air swirled in a tempest of passion as the kiss deepened. No longer caring if anyone came upon them, Patrick continued to feast on her mouth.
“How many kissing boughs have our wives placed in this castle?” asked Stephen.
“In every nook, stone, and chamber. I would not be surprised to find one in the stables or lists,” replied Duncan.
Stephen laughed. “By the hounds, I do love Midwinter.”
Gwen stiffened against Patrick. Placing a finger over her mouth, he waited for the conversation to fade before relaxing his stance and stepping back. Glancing over his shoulder, he watched as the men made their way into the feasting hall. Returning his attention to Gwen, he pulled her out of the alcove.
Her cheeks were stained a becoming pink, and full lips begged to be kissed again. Patrick raked a hand through his hair, doing his best to refrain from backing her inside the hidden enclosure again.
She giggled and stole a glance upward within the alcove. “Yes. We can blame it on the kissing boughs.”
He laughed nervously. “This is a first.”
“Are you confessing you’ve never kissed another under these boughs?”
Reaching for her hand, he caressed her fingers. “Never. Leòmhann has seen many a Midwinter feast, but no one dared to place these kissing boughs within the castle.”
She tilted her head to the side. Her joyful expression faded. “May I ask why?”
Once again, Patrick was reminded of the curse which surrounded his home. He looked down at her tiny hand. What could he offer Gwen? Why did he continue to pursue her without the promise of tomorrow? Should he confess all to her now?
She squeezed his hand. “If it’s too painful to talk about, I’ll understand. Let us enjoy this evening and not dwell on unhappy thoughts.”
Her words brought comfort to Patrick’s tortured spirit. Giving her a weak smile, he brought her hand into the crook of his arm. “Ye are correct. Let us welcome the light of Midwinter tonight.”
Patrick’s steps slowed as he guided them into the hall. The atmosphere was one of cheerfulness, laughter, and music. Greenery adorned the entire room—from wooden beams to tables. Children scurried past them in glee, and his heart leaped at the sight.
“My goodness. It’s beautiful,” observed Gwen, leaning against him. “And look, they’ve brought Meggie’s tapestry back inside the hall. The MacKays surely know how to celebrate.”
Within that moment, Patrick made a silent vow that one day he would see the same light enter his home. His heart soared at the possibility. With ye by my side, Gwen, I shall give ye this beauty.
Award-winning Celtic paranormal and fantasy romance author, Mary Morgan, resides in Northern California with her own knight in shining armor. However, during her travels to Scotland, England, and Ireland, she left a part of her soul in one of these countries and vows to return.
Mary’s passion for books started at an early age along with an overactive imagination. Inspired by her love for history and ancient Celtic mythology, her tales are filled with powerful warriors, brave women, magic, and romance. It wasn’t until the closure of Borders Books where Mary worked that she found her true calling by writing romance. Now, the worlds she created in her mind are coming to life within her stories.
If you enjoy history, tortured heroes, and a wee bit of magic, then time-travel within the pages of her books.
I’m thrilled to have another sister Rose (published by The Wild Rose Press) here today. Please welcome Linda Nightingale! Her latest book, Sinners’ Opera, was released on October 7. Let’s get to know her…
At what age did you write your first story?
I always told my friends stories from the age of about 8 and thought of scenarios that we could play, like raking leaves to form a house, then being princesses or housewives. Big jump, right? Not for us. The first story I remember writing was in 9th grade in place of a book report. It was sci-fi about an alien discovered on Earth and his flight from his captors. He had silver-pink hair. (Hey, he’d be right in style today.)
Which genre was the first to hook you?
Romance and sci-fi.
What was your first published book?
My first book was Gemini Rising, which deals with a very sensitive, taboo for the most part subject. I wrote it because the characters woke me up one Sunday after a night on Miami Beach, and I wrote the first pages in purple on a legal pad. (Oh, no, purple prose!) A Canadian publisher picked it up, and it did fairly well considering the subject.
Sounds intriguing. What’s your favorite part of the writing process? Brainstorming? Research? Outlining? Writing? Editing?
Easy. Writing. I’m not keen on research or editing but I love the white hot stream of creativity that flows from your fingers when the words are coming faster than you can type.
What are you working on now?
A companion story to Sinners’ Opera. In The Piano Man, Morgan is playing in a smoky piano bar, and in walks a love from his WWII days as a dashing RAF pilot flying night raids over Germany. Of course, our vampire hero hasn’t changed a bit. It goes back to the WWII story, then finishes in early 2005.
Cool! Of all the settings you’ve used (or created!) for your books, which is your favorite?
Charleston, SC. Charleston is my favorite city in the US. It was founded during the reign of Charles II and also ties to Morgan. A trip down the beautiful Battery takes you back to the Civil War with the cannons at White Point Gardens, and the gorgeous Antebellum mansions.
My great-grandmother lived in Charleston, so I went there as a little girl. A beautiful place! If you could have a conversation with anyone—dead or alive—who would it be?
Charles II of England. He was banished when his father was executed by Oliver Cromwell, but in 1660, he was restored to the throne by invitation. His court was known for being rowdy and a bit lascivious.
If you could step inside any book or series and live there for a week, which would you choose?
Probably either Game of Thrones or Outlander.
If a fairy godmother appeared and offered you one thing—anything at all—what would you request?
Enough money to live very comfortably for the rest of my life and have more left to will to my sons.
That’s a wish I share! Now, it’s time to learn some of your favorites…
Sound:The purr of Jaguar E-type exhausts.
Eye color:Blue
Foreign language (whether or not you speak it!):French
Song:“Phantom of the Opera”
Book:Fever Dream by George R.R. Martin
Movie:The Libertine with Johnny Depp
TV show:Game of Thrones
Cuisine: Indian
Cookie:Macadamia
US location:Charleston, SC
Foreign location:Yorkshire, UK, where my son lives.
I love that area of England and long to go back one day. Most of my upcoming release, Night of the Owl, takes place there! Okay…last but not least, list your preference from the following choices:
Tea or coffee?Coffee
Cake or pie?Cake
Halloween or Christmas?Hard choice.
I know; I love them both. Nancy Drew or Sherlock Holmes?Neither.
Jane Austen or the Brontë sisters?Jane Austen
A mortal, vampire, ghost, or fae for a lover?mortal
English gent, Scottish highlander, European count, or all-American guy?English lord
Thanks so much for joining me today, Linda. Best of luck with Sinners’ Opera! Now, here’s the scoop on the book:
Morgan D’Arcy is an English lord, a classical pianist, and a vampire. He has everything except what he desires most—Isabeau. As the Angel Gabriel he’s steered her life and career choice, preparing her to become Lady D’Arcy. Many forces oppose Morgan’s daring plan—not the least of which is Vampyre law.
Isabeau Gervase is a brilliant geneticist Though she no longer believes in angels, she sees a ticket to a Nobel Prize in Gabriel’s secrets—secrets that have led her to a startling conclusion. Gabriel isn’t human, and she fully intends to identify the species she named the Angel Genome. Morgan is ready to come back into Isabeau’s life, but this time as a man not an angel. Will he outsmart his enemies, protect his beloved and escape death himself? For the first time in eternity, the clock is ticking.
A peek between the pages:
“Run, Mary,” I panted, shoving her. “For God’s sake, run.”
Her hands branded my shoulders. Need coursed through me.
Her brow puckered. “How did you know my name?”
“You look like a Mary,” I gasped, trying to crawl away. “Bloody hell, run, woman.”
Saliva broke beneath my tongue. My heart thundered like a cavalry charge. Fever stung my veins. Instinct twisted me around to face my salvation and my damnation. My lips parted to reveal the one unmistakable characteristic of my kind.
“Fangs.” She recoiled, clutching her cross. “Lord Jesus, save me from this demon.”
I knelt in front of my savior, bowed my head over her heaving breasts to touch the cross to my lips. “Too late to run, too late to hide, and Mary dearest, your cross won’t save you.”
I held her gaze, a slow smile parting my lips. Her eyes clouded, jaw slackening. Too weak to command my more esoteric powers, I could still mesmerize my prey. It was just too bloody easy. Vampires are the perfect predators. But I had a choice. Didn’t I?
“What’s your name?” She inhaled a long, slow breath, toying with my hair. “You’re as beautiful as an angel.”
Another wave of misery broke over me. She wasn’t the only one who thought I looked like an angel.
Once, the woman I love—the woman who didn’t love me—believed I was an angel.
“My name is Morgan.” I couldn’t bring myself to say my second name, an angel’s name.
Mary ran her finger down my cheek. “Pretty name, Morgan.”
So simply, the seductive dance that would end in death began.
After 14 years in Texas, Linda just returned home to her roots in South Carolina. She has seven published novels, five of which are available from Audible.com in audio. Breeding and showing Andalusians, she’s seen a lot of this country from the windshield of a truck pulling a horse trailer. She has won several writing awards, including the Georgia Romance Writers’ Magnolia Award and the SARA Merritt. She retired from a career as a legal assistant at MD Anderson Cancer Center to write full time.
She has 2 wonderful sons—one in Texas; one in England—and 4 equally marvelous grandchildren.
She enjoys dressing up and hosting formal dinner parties!
Welcome back to Medieval Monday! I’m excited to have award-winning author Ashley York here today. We’re featuring her medieval romance, Daughter of the Overking, the third book of The Warrior Kings series.
If you’re following my “Bad Guy” excerpt from Shadow of the Swan, you can find the eighth snippet on Ashley’s blog here. Remember to leave a comment there for a chance to win digital copies of the first three books in The Novels of Ravenwood series!
Now, let’s enjoy Ashley’s “Bad Guy” snippet:
“Let me get ye a—”
She shook her head, the movement causing shooting pain behind her eyes, and suddenly the room grew blurry all around her.
“No accident. He was murdered.” The tall man’s words were met with stunned silence.”
“Who would wish him dead?” Tadhg asked.
A little more about Daughter of the Overking:
A mistaken identity. A gruesome murder.
Trained as a warrior…
Brighit of Clonascra despises the trappings and demands of womanhood and is far more comfortable training for battle. Long held alliances require she set aside selfish dreams and take Darragh as her husband. The union intended to promote peace between the clans is interrupted by the shocking murder of a neighboring king and she quickly discovers there are far worse things than being wed.
Trained to be king…
Darragh of Drogheda has no wish to be king, but he is an obedient son and supports his father’s plans. His marriage to Brighit, however, will be no hardship at all since he finds her most intriguing when she fights him at every turn. A she-warrior indeed. Her persistent dismissal of him merely blows the fire aflame and sets him down the path to discovery of all her most tightly held secrets—secrets that could cost him his life.
Welcome back to Medieval Monday! I’m excited to have award-winning author Ashley York here today. We’re featuring her medieval romance, Curse of the Healer.
If you’re following my excerpt from Shadow of the Swan, you can find the tenth snippet of Robert and Constance’s first encounter on Ashley’s blog. Remember to leave a comment there for a chance to win a signed print copy of the book! Here’s the link: https://www.ashleyyorkauthor.com/blog
Now, let’s enjoy Ashley’s tenth snippet:
“I do.” His voice, no more than a whisper.
A tentative caress to her breast and her nipples tightened, painfully. His open palm running across that sensitive area increased the heat beneath her skirt. She squirmed under his ministrations as he cupped one breast and then the other. Grasping and releasing. The tension bloomed into pleasure and she exhaled.
“A lovely night.” He moved back to her ear, his warm breath making her heart beat faster. “And we are of the same mind.”
She nodded, pressing her breasts against the eager hands that stroked her, blessedly soothing.
“I’ve a great need for ye, Aednat.” His husky whisper intensified her longing.
A hand caressing her backside urged her closer. She molded herself to him, allowing her breasts to be more fully grasped in his hands, the heat becoming nearly unbearable. His persistent mouth suckling at the crook of her neck sent waves of delight through her body, settling between her legs.
After the death of Brian Boru in 1014, a legend arose of a healer so great she could raise a man from the dead, with a power so strong it could make any warrior the next high king of Éire…and to steal it away from her, he need only possess her.
Fated to be a healer…
Aednat has spent her entire life training to be the great healer, knowing she must remain alone. When she meets Diarmuid, the intense attraction she feels toward him shakes her resolve to believe in such a legend. If she gives in to the passion he ignites in her, can she settle for being less?
Destined to be his…
Diarmuid of Clonascra is renowned for his bravery in battle. Only one thing daunts him: the prospect of taking a wife. The safest course would be to keep his distance from Aednat, the bold, headstrong healer who’s far too tempting for his peace of mind. But his overking orders him to protect her from a group of craven warriors intent on kidnapping her to steal her power.
What starts as duty for Diarmuid quickly transforms into something more. Aednat’s power might be at risk, but so is his closed-off heart.
I just noticed that Amazon still has the first three books of my medieval romance series, The Novels of Ravenwood, on sale, and just in time for Valentine’s Day! It’s a surprise to me but good news for you, so get ’em while they’re hot! The fourth book in the series, Night of the Owl, is with my editor now, and I’m currently writing a detailed outline of the fifth and final book, Return of the Raven. Big reveals lie ahead!
Good news and an early Christmas present: N. N. Light’s Book Heaven has given The Stone Awakened five stars! What a lovely launch into the world for a story that’s near to my heart. Here’s a snippet of the review:
“Filled with plenty of conflict, action and mystery, this is a must-read for any reader looking for a book to lose oneself in. There’s quite a bit going on and Judith Sterling weaves mythology throughout the plot with ease.”
And guess what? I’m doing another giveaway of the award-winning first book in the series, The Cauldron Stirred; this time, on Tena Stetler’s blog. We’d love to see you, and you just might win! Join us here:
That’s all the news for now. Whatever your plans for today, I hope they go well for you. Cheers!
A little more about The Stone Awakened:
Since moving to Ireland, Ashling Donoghue has tackled one challenge after another. Now the mystery of her parents’ disappearance seems unsolvable. Are they dead or only missing? No one—not even the godlike Breasals—has a clue. Hope and fear war inside her, but she’s determined to find answers and stay strong for her siblings. Even as she hones newfound powers, her banshee-in-training sister Deirdre needs her support.
Ashling could use a little help herself. She’s struggling to navigate her first romance, and while Aengus Breasal stirs her body, mind, and soul, his nemesis Lorcan does too. Both men harbor secrets about her past life as Caer. One has ties to Aoife, the scheming wind demon whose influence is on the rise.
As the Stone of Destiny awakens, so does the conflict within.
My dear friend, Mary Morgan, is here to celebrate tomorrow’s release of Trial of a Warrior, the third book in her Legends of the Fenian Warriors series. Yay! More Celtic mythology! You know about my Guardians of Erin series and the upcoming release of The Stone Awakened (Book 2). My love for Ireland runs deep, and Mary is definitely a kindred spirit in that respect! Let’s see what she has to say about her new release.
What inspired you to write this book/series?
Initially, you meet these warriors in my first series, Order of the Dragon Knights. I knew one day I would have to write each of their stories.
I have always been fascinated with Celtic mythology, so it only made sense that I would develop and expand the world of the Fenian Fae Warriors. Theirs was a world rich in legends, colors, and senses. I’ve based my own fictional account on the legend of the Tuatha Dé Danann—one of the invasions of Ireland. They were known as the Shining Ones or the Fae.
With my warriors, there is nothing diminutive with these heroes. They’re ancient, extremely tall, and commanding. As always, it will take a strong woman to stand beside these ancient Fae.
Absolutely! The Tuatha Dé Danann fascinate me too, which is why I’ve woven them into my young adult series. Dreams–or what appear to be dreams–play an important role in that saga, especially in the first book, The Cauldron Stirred. Speaking of dreams, have you encountered any of your characters in one?Yes, all of them! They’re usually speaking all at once, arguing over a specific plot. I never interfere, but tend to sit back and try to absorb the messages.
Awesome! If you could give your hero a word of advice, what would it be?To always maintain his humor.
Any advice for your heroine?Try to curb the stubbornness.
In general, which do you enjoy writing more: description or dialogue?Both. I love the ebb and flow of describing a scene and then adding dialogue.
So do I. What do you love most about being an author?The freedom to create stories. There’s always a tale to be told within my mind.
I’m right there with you, Mary! Thanks so much for joining me today. I’m positive the new book will be a great success.
A little more about Trial of a Warrior:
“You met them in the Order of the Dragon Knights. Now, journey to the realm of the Fae and witness their legends!”
A warrior sentenced to die.
On trial for breaking a supreme Fae law, Fenian Warrior, Liam MacGregor has no regrets. He is prepared to accept his sentence—even if it means his death. However, freedom comes in an unexpected manner, and brings with it certain dangers as he travels through the Veil of Ages.
A princess honor-bound to remain hidden.
Princess Abela might be a priestess and the daughter of royalty, but that doesn’t prevent her from doing the unimaginable. She sacrifices duty and honor to set free the man who captured her heart so many years ago. No matter the severity of his crimes, she cannot let Liam die.
A rescue that will bring about a war and divide a kingdom!
In their quest to secure a treaty to forestall Liam’s death sentence, they must fight their desires for one another, as well as the Fenian Warriors sent to capture them.
A peek inside the pages:
Taking the end of her braid, Liam wove the soft hair around his finger. Black as ebony, the lock glistened in the soft glow of the fire. She’d tempted him beyond reason. Once, he thought there might have been a destiny, but her words of rejection slammed the door on any possibility. If she had no desire to claim him, why did Abela come to his initiation?
“Why witness my ceremony?” He let out a frustrated breath and brought the braid to his lips.
“Because I never said goodbye,” she uttered softly. Lifting her head, her eyes sought his and her cheeks colored from the heat of his gaze.
Liam was unable to look away from her beauty. “No. I recall harsh words and tears.”
“We were young—naïve.”
“Stubborn and set on a path of adventure,” he added.
“But our roads have led us to this fork, so to speak.”
Liam cupped her chin. “Was it destined?” He felt her tremble from his touch.
“I am not a seer,” she replied, darting her tongue out along her bottom lip.
His mind screamed at him to move away. She was a princess—a priestess. But the temptation to taste her lips once more seeped into his being. Liam bent his head and placed a feather-like kiss on the corner of her mouth.
A small breathless whisper escaped her lips, “More.”
Her invitation sparked a desire that had remained sealed. Cupping the back of her head, he continued to kiss her tenderly on the eyes, nose, and forehead. As he shifted his position, Liam brought his arms around her and dared to feast on something that was forbidden. If death was his future, he wanted one more kiss to take with him.
Award-winning Celtic paranormal and fantasy romance author, Mary Morgan, resides in Northern California, with her own knight in shining armor. However, during her travels to Scotland, England, and Ireland, she left a part of her soul in one of these countries and vows to return.
Mary’s passion for books started at an early age along with an overactive imagination. Inspired by her love for history and ancient Celtic mythology, her tales are filled with powerful warriors, brave women, magic, and romance. It wasn’t until the closure of Borders Books where Mary worked that she found her true calling by writing romance. Now, the worlds she created in her mind are coming to life within her stories.
If you enjoy history, tortured heroes, and a wee bit of magic, then time-travel within the pages of her books.
Welcome back to Medieval Monday! It’s Week Two of our “Family” theme, and I’m thrilled to feature my dear friend and award-winning author, Mary Morgan’s work, Dragon Knight’s Shield (Order of the Dragon Knights, Book Four). Don’t you love this cover?!
If you’re following my excerpt from Flight of the Raven, you can find the second snippet on Mary’s blog: www.marymorganauthor.com
Now, let’s enjoy her second snippet:
Hearing the door closed, Angus slumped down against the stone wall. The druid’s visit left him raw with emotions. Hanging his head in his hands, he thought back to the night of Meggie’s death, shoving aside the vision of her lifeless body, he brought forth the image of the Guardian. Closing his eyes, he could see her in all her beauty and then she spoke. Across the sea, their destiny awaits. A love will meet through time and space. To right a wrong within this place. Beneath the gate to test your fate.
Deirdre was sent to him across the veil of time. A test—one he had failed to see.
For a chance to win a signed print copy of Dragon Knight’s Shield, please leave a comment. And don’t forget to visit Mary’s blog and comment on my snippet for a chance to win Flight of the Raven (or if you already have a copy, your choice of another of my books)!
A little more about Dragon Knight’s Shield:
Angus MacKay, leader of the Dragon Knights, failed his brothers and his clan upon the death of his sister. Now he must fight the darkness of despair tempting his soul. Back on Scottish soil, he comes face to face with Deirdre who can wield a sword as mightily as his warriors, and takes her captive. Yet, with each passing day, the fire dragon inside him roars to claim the one woman fate has destined for him.
Famed mystery writer, Deirdre Flanagan, is unprepared for the next chapter in her life. On a vacation to Scotland, she steps through the mists and enters into a skirmish alongside a Highlander. However, the fight has only begun, and now she must battle Angus as well as evil in order to claim the love of this Dragon Knight.
Will their love be powerful enough to shield them from danger, or burn them to ashes?
