• Welcome!
  • My Books
  • My Blog
  • Interviews, Articles, and Guest Blogs

Judith Sterling

~ Award-winning Author

Judith Sterling

Tag Archives: Dragon Knight’s Medallion

Mary Morgan’s New Release ~ DESTINY OF A WARRIOR

12 Wednesday Jun 2019

Posted by Judith Sterling in Uncategorized

≈ 17 Comments

Tags

award-winning books, bestselling author, Destiny of a Warrior, Dragon Knight's Medallion, Judith Sterling, Legends of the Fenian Warriors, literary giveaway, Mary Morgan, medieval romance, new release, Order of the Dragon Knights, paranormal fantasy, Scottish historical romance, the fae, time travel romance


My dear friend and sister Rose (The Wild Rose Press) Mary Morgan is here today to talk about her recent release, Destiny of a Warrior.  Let’s see what she has to say about it.

Mary, each book of a series resonates in a unique way with its author, and this is the fourth in your Legends of the Fenian Warriors series. How is it dear to your heart?

I’ve waited a long time to tell this hero’s story. The great Aidan Kerrigan was a tale I feared to write. When he first appeared in the story, Dragon Knight’s Medallion, Order of the Dragon Knights, Book 2, I panicked. I did not know he was a Fenian Warrior until he walked through the crowd of people at the airport to greet his daughter, Aileen. His presence loomed mighty and grew with the previous stories in the Legends of the Fenian Warriors. Regardless, I knew then that his and Rose’s love story had to be told from the beginning. With each Fenian Warrior’s story, I shared a layer about this Fae. Little did I know when I penned his first line of dialogue that he was the leader of the Fenian Warriors, came from royalty, and his sister was Queen of the Fae realm.

He chose not to reveal any of this to me. And this is why I became terrified. What more could he share? Aidan made it simple. He told me to write a love story, stating, “For you see, love is greater than all the power attained in the world—be it human or Fae.”

With this revelation, Aidan Kerrigan has remained my favorite (and most complex) character. He’s honorable and loyal—struggling with a new-found love and what this relationship would do to his Fae people. He also continued with a code of ethics his entire life.

And the lovely Rose MacLaren was a perfect match. As he professed to her, “I saw beauty inside the depth of your soul. Your intelligence would rival any Fae in the herbal gardens, and you possess a wisdom that sparks from a desire to learn more. You challenge me.”

What was your first thought when you saw the cover?

I gasped! I wanted the cover to represent power, the Fae realm, and the Tree of Life in the background. Debbie Taylor went above and beyond to deliver a stunning cover. I love it!

You’ve already bestowed life on your characters. Is there another gift you’d like to give them as a couple?

Ahh…that is a difficult question. I cannot answer this without giving away a major spoiler. I’ll leave that to the readers after they’ve had a chance to read both books: Dragon Knight’s Medallion and Destiny of a Warrior.

If you could offer Aidan a word of advice, what would it be?

You should have told your daughter Aileen who and what you were sooner.

How would you advise Rose?

Not all visions are what they appear to represent. Don’t let fear guide you.

Is there any chance this couple will appear in a future story?

A question my editor keeps asking, too, Judith.  🙂  For now, Aidan and Rose are both where they should be—blissfully happy and forever young.

Thanks so much for hosting me on your lovely blog, Judith. It’s always a joy to visit. And readers, don’t forget to enter the rafflecopter giveaway for a chance to win a fabulous grand prize!

Always a pleasure to have you here, Mary.  Best of luck with your new release!

Here’s what readers could win in the giveaway (June 5 – July 15, US and Canada only):

~Signed print copy of Destiny of a Warrior
~Celtic jeweled bookmark
~$5 Starbucks card

Enter here!

A little more about the book:

“You met him in the Order of the Dragon Knights. Now, journey to the realm of the Fae and witness their greatest legend!”

As leader of the Fenian Warriors, Aidan Kerrigan’s accolades are many and his loyalty to the Fae unwavering. When an unexpected mission sends him to the human world and a chance encounter with Rose MacLaren, he’s tempted for the first time in his existence to discard duty and claim what is forbidden.

Rose MacLaren, a Society of the Thistle member, yearns to expand her botanical knowledge with her love of history. After her rescue by a handsome stranger, she is compelled to look beyond what her rational mind comprehends and unravel the secret of the standing stones, as well as the man who captivates her.

In a mystical world ruled by ancient laws and edicts, can a fierce warrior choose a path destined for love? And will a woman honoring the ways of the land believe in a myth only spoken of in legends? If they do, will their love be enough to defy death’s punishment?

A peek between the pages:

Flexing his fingers, Aidan yearned to bring some light into the dreary situation. Rose’s rigid stance against the vehicle spoke volumes. While her back was turned, he magically brought forth a red rose. Striding across the muddy terrain, he presented the flower over her shoulder.

Her indrawn breath at his gift resonated within him. “How lovely, Aidan. I don’t recall seeing any roses on the property.” She grasped the flower, but winced. “Ouch.”

Stepping around in front of her, Aidan removed the rose from her delicate fingers and placed it on the roof of the vehicle. Droplets of blood oozed from the damage done by the thorn. Without thinking of the consequences, Aidan brought her injured finger to his lips. Instantly, the taste of her blood ignited a war in his veins. Passion so intense slammed into his body. As he released her hand, his gaze roamed over her features.

Rose was his land—his home. A part of him fractured with the realization. When did his world tilt off its axis? There was no firm compass anymore. No sure direction, save one. Rose.

The roar of desire hummed into his being, and Aidan crushed her to his chest. His hand took her face and held it gently. He covered her mouth hungrily, seeking entry into her velvet softness with his tongue. When her moan slid inside of him, Aidan groaned. Her scent consumed him.

Emotions within him whirled and skidded. Unable to control the flood of so many, he swayed and broke free from the kiss. These feelings were foreign to him, but he no longer feared them.

Aidan breathed heavily, keeping her at arm’s length. The sensuous flame of desire reflected back within her sparkling emerald eyes. “Forgive me?”

“Not for the kiss, Aidan,” her tone low and sultry.

Slowly, he took hold of her hand and kissed her finger, which was now healed from his touch. “I meant the thorn.”

Her tongue darted out along her bottom lip, enticing him further. “Not for the thorn, either,” she admitted, plucking the rose off the top of the vehicle. “Isn’t it time you showed me your other castle, Aidan?”

“Croí Dragon. That is the name of my keep.”

Rose placed her hand on his chest. “Dragon Heart.”

Buy the book:

Amazon 
BN 
iBooks 
Kobo 
Amazon CA 
Amazon UK 
Amazon AU 
The Wild Rose Press 
Legends of the Fenian Warriors ~ Amazon

More about Mary:

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.

Where to find her:

WEBSITE 

BLOG 

TWITTER 

FACEBOOK AUTHOR PAGE 

GOODREADS 

AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE 

PINTEREST 

INSTAGRAM 

BOOKBUB 

LINKEDIN 

BOOKGORILLA 

 

Guest Author Mary Morgan ~ OATH OF A WARRIOR

19 Wednesday Sep 2018

Posted by Judith Sterling in Uncategorized

≈ 8 Comments

Tags

Dragon Knight's Axe, Dragon Knight's Medallion, Dragon Knight's Ring, Dragon Knight's Shield, Dragon Knight's Sword, guest author, Judith Sterling, Legends of the Fenian Warriors, Mary Morgan, Medieval Monday, medieval romance, Oath of a Warrior, Order of the Dragon Knights, paranormal time-travel romance, The Novels of Ravenwood

I’m thrilled to have my dear friend and talented author Mary Morgan here today!  I’ve featured some of her work during our Medieval Monday rounds, and she’s featured excerpts from my medieval romance series, The Novels of Ravenwood.  But today, as a special treat, she’s written a lovely post to celebrate her recent release, Oath of a Warrior.  So I’ll just sit back and enjoy it with you.  Take it away, Mary!

Hello Judith!

Thanks for having me on your wonderful blog today!

OATH OF A WARRIOR, Legends of the Fenian Warriors, Book 2 is about second chances, healing, renewal, and those that tend not to fit within the rules of society. You first meet the hero in Dragon Knight’s Sword, Order of the Dragon Knights, Book 1. The Fae Warriors were prominent throughout this series, so I was thrilled to give them all their own stories. Rory MacGregor was the most tortured hero I’ve ever written, and I’ve chosen the first few pages of Chapter One to share with your readers. This opening scene reflected the anguish he kept hidden and never spoke about to anyone.

In doing research for Oath of a Warrior, I came across hundreds of cases pertaining to witches and the witch trials in Scotland. The records of Scotland’s witch trials spanned over a period of 200 years during the 16th and 17th centuries. However, I did find evidence of several women being burned, or executed in the late 15th century. This was a dark period in Scottish history, exposing a culture of fear and panic that cast a cloud over much of Scotland.

Some of the charges brought against these individuals ranged from belonging to a coven, receiving herbs from the Queen of the Faeries, and using charms against another person. It did not matter if you were a servant or upper class, either. If you wanted to rid yourself of someone, all you had to do was accuse the person of being a witch.

Erina was a wonderful character to write and one I knew who would appeal to Rory. She loved her garden and animals, tended to those who required healing, made love charms, and believed in the old ways. This was a perfect combination for any to accuse her of dealing in the black arts. Yet, she never saw herself as a witch. Only someone who was different. Sadly, even in this century, we tend to look at others who do not walk the same path as the majority as odd.

This recipe is one that I mentioned in the story. It’s a favorite of Erina’s. In 17th century Scotland, she might have made it with less sugar and more honey, or no sugar at all. I’ve adapted this recipe with all sugar. It’s delicious and perfect during the summertime or early autumn months.

Red roses symbolize passion, sacrifice, and love. It’s a perfect blend for my love story and this recipe.

 

Sounds delicious!  Thank you so much for joining me today, Mary.

Now, here’s a bit more about Oath 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!”

Fenian Warrior, Rory MacGregor’s love conquests are legendary, but he has never spoken of the one mortal female who captured his heart. After his dark secret is finally revealed, he is ordered to return and seal the wounds left open by her death. Yet, he finds the timeline altered and swears an oath to rewrite fate, even if it brings about his own death.

Erina MacIntyre is known for her healing herbs and love charms. Determined to aid others, she refuses to listen to the whispers that call her a witch. When a Highlander steps forth into her path, he ignites a thread of strange familiarity and sparks a flame of desire she is unable to control.

Can the destiny of two lovers find love once more among the ashes of death and betrayal? Or will history repeat itself, leaving a scorching path of destruction for both mortals and Fae alike?


A peek between the pages:

“In the twilight moments before one wakes, be wary of the fragmented dreams of truth.”

~Chronicles of the Fae

Beneath the Hill of Tara, Ireland, Mid Autumn—the season of harvest and feasting in the Fae Realm

Smoke filled his lungs, strangling his pitiful cries for mercy. Dust coated his mouth, and his eyes burned, reminding him of the flames of dragon fire during raging battles. Repeatedly, they continued to pummel his face, while his hands and feet remained bound as he knelt on the ground. Some threw stones at his head and others spouted vile obscenities and spat on him. He choked back the copper taste of blood and attempted to reason with any one of his captors.

Did they not understand who he was? Did they not know he could boil the blood within their bodies and peel the skin from their bones? He, a great Fenian Warrior could obliterate their entire city!

But he would not. Death would come far more quickly if he harmed so much as a hair on their pathetic bodies. In truth, he was honored bound by an oath to these deplorable humans.

“Bind…me to…the stake,” he pleaded in a choked voice. “Take me.” Fighting the wave of panic and the pain slashing his body, mind, and soul, Rory blinked in an attempt to focus and faced his tormentor.

His captor grabbed a fistful of hair, forcing Rory to view the scene in front of him. “Your time will come, ye spawn of the devil. But ye will first watch how your witch shall die.”

“Nae a witch,” he hissed.

“Liar!” the man shrieked, spittle flying. “Did she not tell wee Alan the charms came from the faeries?”

“A lad’s tale to amuse his friends,” he argued, during fits of coughing spasms.

“Nae!” A woman protested, pushing through the crowds of people. She charged forward and delivered a slap to Rory’s face. “Ye are bewitched by the lass and spout lies about my son.”

She wagged a finger. “Ye should burn with her. Ye have the painted markings of the devil on your body.”

“Leave and go tend to your son,” ordered the man.

Hastily making the sign of the cross, she quickly departed.

“Please, have mercy,” begged Rory.

“Mercy,” he echoed. “So that she may return and cast her evil ways upon us? Nae. She has been found guilty of her crimes.” Releasing his hold on Rory, the man nodded to another.

Rory uttered a curse and looked at the woman bound to the burning stake. Eyes wide with fear gazed back at him as the flames took hold of her dress, licking a path up her body. Not once did she let out a scream of terror. Choking on the scent of burning flesh, he swallowed the bile threatening to heave and attempted to stand. He would not let her die like this. She had done nothing wrong.

Yet, the effort cost Rory when his captor shoved a blade into his side. Pain dulled his senses, and he fought to move forward.

He broke free from his bindings and heard the crowd gasp in horror. No longer caring if any witnessed his power, he lifted his arms, only to have another bash him over the head.

Rory’s last glimpse of the woman he had forsaken were her screams of his name before he succumbed into the dark abyss, praying death would take them both swiftly.

Awakening on a guttural cry, Rory turned and emptied what little he had in his stomach onto the ground. Gasping for breath, he waited for the spasms to settle within his body and rolled on his side. Wiping his mouth with the back of his hand, he leaned against the cool crystal wall of his prison, and let his head drop back. Gazing upward, he watched as the stars glittered like diamonds against an inky velvet night sky.

The dream had once again come unbidden to him during his time spent in the Room of Reflection. Never once had he dreamt of her until he entered his imprisonment. Nae. He had banished the memories—tucked them away to a remote part of his being. Hardened himself against any emotions. Struck her name from any thought and vowed never to reveal to his fellow Fenian brothers his involvement in her capture, imprisonment, and death.

Where to buy Oath of a Warrior:

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Oath-Warrior-Legends-Fenian-Warriors-ebook/dp/B07CZSXFYN/

BN (Nook): https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/oath-of-a-warrior-mary-morgan/1128772180?ean=2940162047865

iTunes:
https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/oath-of-a-warrior/id1388814969?mt=11

The Wild Rose Press: https://catalog.thewildrosepress.com/all-titles/5920-oath-of-a-warrior.html

A bit more about Mary:

Award-winning Celtic paranormal 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. She spent far too much time daydreaming and was told quite often to remove her head from the clouds. It wasn’t until the closure of Borders Books where Mary worked that she found her true calling–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.

Where to find her:

WEBSITE: http://www.marymorganauthor.com

BLOG: http://www.marymorganauthor.com/blog

TWITTER: http://twitter.com/m_morganauthor

FACEBOOK AUTHOR PAGE: https://www.facebook.com/MaryMorganAuthor/

GOODREADS: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/8271002.Mary_Morgan

AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE: http://www.amazon.com/Mary-Morgan/e/B00KPE3NWI/

PINTEREST: www.pinterest.com/marymorgan50/

INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/marymorgan2/

BOOKBUB: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/mary-morgan

Recent Posts

  • PRG Reviewer’s Choice Nominee ~ TRIP THE LIGHT PHANTASMIC
  • Wintertime Reading Bookish Event ~ NIGHT OF THE OWL
  • New Year New Books Fete ~ TRIP THE LIGHT PHANTASMIC
  • New Year New Books Fete ~ N. N. Light’s Book Heaven
  • Happy New Year!

Archives

  • January 2023
  • December 2022
  • November 2022
  • October 2022
  • September 2022
  • August 2022
  • July 2022
  • June 2022
  • May 2022
  • April 2022
  • March 2022
  • February 2022
  • January 2022
  • December 2021
  • November 2021
  • October 2021
  • September 2021
  • August 2021
  • July 2021
  • June 2021
  • May 2021
  • April 2021
  • March 2021
  • February 2021
  • January 2021
  • December 2020
  • November 2020
  • October 2020
  • September 2020
  • August 2020
  • July 2020
  • June 2020
  • May 2020
  • April 2020
  • March 2020
  • February 2020
  • January 2020
  • December 2019
  • November 2019
  • October 2019
  • September 2019
  • August 2019
  • July 2019
  • June 2019
  • May 2019
  • April 2019
  • March 2019
  • February 2019
  • January 2019
  • December 2018
  • November 2018
  • October 2018
  • September 2018
  • August 2018
  • July 2018
  • June 2018
  • May 2018
  • April 2018
  • March 2018
  • February 2018
  • January 2018
  • December 2017
  • November 2017
  • October 2017
  • September 2017
  • August 2017
  • July 2017
  • June 2017
  • May 2017
  • April 2017
  • March 2017
  • February 2017
  • January 2017
  • December 2016
  • November 2016
  • October 2016
  • September 2016
  • August 2016
  • June 2016
  • April 2016
  • March 2016
  • December 2015
  • October 2015
  • April 2015
  • March 2015
  • January 2015
  • October 2014
  • September 2014
  • April 2014
  • April 2013
  • November 2012

Categories

  • Uncategorized

Meta

  • Register
  • Log in
  • Entries feed
  • Comments feed
  • WordPress.com

Blog at WordPress.com.

  • Follow Following
    • Judith Sterling
    • Join 402 other followers
    • Already have a WordPress.com account? Log in now.
    • Judith Sterling
    • Customize
    • Follow Following
    • Sign up
    • Log in
    • Report this content
    • View site in Reader
    • Manage subscriptions
    • Collapse this bar
 

Loading Comments...