THE STORY BETWEEN US by Darlene Deluca

17 Thursday Sep 2020

Posted by Judith Sterling in Uncategorized

Tags

contemporary romance, Darlene Deluca, Judith Sterling, new release, The Story Between Us, The Wild Rose Press

Please welcome Darlene Deluca! She’s a sister Rose (published by The Wild Rose Press) with a new release that sounds like a beautiful, heartwarming read. If you like contemporary romance, check it out!

A word from Darlene:

Thanks so much for having me today, Judith!

I appreciate the opportunity to introduce you to Kristen, Reed and Dylan in The Story Between Us.

When I first started writing The Story Between Us, I had no idea it’d be releasing in the middle of a worldwide pandemic! In these crazy times who couldn’t use a little good cheer, right? It’s got all the feels! The book is a heartwarming romance that delivers a sweet and satisfying happy ending. I hope it offers a little escape from the troubles of the world.

Happy reading and best wishes to all!

Lovely to have you here, Darlene! I’m wishing you all the best with the book. Now, for all you avid readers out there, here’s a little more about it:

Her agent warned her not to get attached to a fan. But children’s book author Kristen Hanover is about to break the rules. Kristen meets a young boy who is a victim of a tragic accident and is drawn into the heartbreaking situation.

Six years ago, Reed Armstrong never imagined he’d actually become guardian of his sister’s boy. Now he is, and most days he’s not sure he’s up to the task.

When he and Dylan meet Kristen, Reed downplays his nephew’s crush on the author. But as their lives become unexpectedly intertwined, he finds himself captivated as well. Trouble is, she sells stories for a living. Does she truly care about Dylan…and Reed, or is she using them for her own career advancement?

A peek between the pages:

Reed pulled his keys out of his pocket. In the doorway, he folded his arms and leaned against the casing. “Can I ask you a question?”

Chest pounding, Kristen forced a smile. “Of course.” She took a couple of steps toward him and braced a hand against the back of the sofa.

“Is writing your only reason for being here?”

Heavy, charged air closed around her. How to answer that? Honestly, of course, but…how honestly? “Well, writing is my goal for sure. But—” She glanced around the room before looking at him again. “I’d love to ride my horse, er, Star, and spend some time with…with people I like, too.”

As he pushed off from the door, a slow grin spread across his face. “Sounds like an excellent plan.” He sauntered closer. About a foot away, he stopped. “You’re good with dinner at the main house tonight? Don’t let Dylan bully you. You decide.”

She gave a shaky laugh. That was the plan, right? She couldn’t remember for sure. Her brain was going fuzzy. “I’d love to,” she managed to say.

He leaned closer, his breath warm on her cheek. She braced herself for a friendly peck, but when her eyes fluttered shut, his lips grazed hers. Hovered there, and when she thought her legs might give out, Reed caught her arm and pulled her slightly toward him, his lips covering hers again.

Sparks exploded in her brain, and she grabbed hold of his arm. All of her senses came alive and responded to the unexpected deluge.

A long moment later, he pulled back and brushed a thumb across her cheek. “See you in about an hour.”

Kristen could only nod. As soon as the door closed behind him, she collapsed against the sofa. She ran a finger along her bottom lip. That kiss…Oh, man. The chances of her getting any writing done this weekend just dropped from unlikely to who-said-anything-about-writing?

Buy the book:

Amazon | B & N | Apple | The Wild Rose Press

More about Darlene:

Darlene Deluca writes contemporary romance and women’s fiction, and likes to explore relationships – what brings people together or keeps them apart.

Her intent is to bring to life interesting characters that readers can relate to in real-life situations that combine a little fun, plenty of drama (with perhaps a tear or two), and big helpings of friendship, love and self-discovery, and will leave readers either cheering or sighing with a satisfied smile as they turn the final page.

The Kansas City author enjoys getting lost in a good story with a glass of tea, a bit of dark chocolate and a warm, sunny beach.

Where to find her:

“A heartwarming and delightful read from start to finish!” ~ InD’tale Magazine

MAGNAR by Mary Morgan

27 Thursday Aug 2020

Posted by Judith Sterling in Uncategorized

≈ 15 Comments

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award-winning books, bestselling author, Judith Sterling, Magnar, Mary Morgan, medieval romance, new release, new series, paranormal fantasy, Scotland, The Vikings, The Wild Rose Press, The Wolves of Clan Sutherland

Today, we’re celebrating the new release of my dear friend and sister Rose (published by The Wild Rose Press), Mary Morgan. Magnar is the first book in her highly anticipated new series, The Wolves of Clan Sutherland, and she’s here to tell us all about it. The floor is yours, Mary!

Hello Judith! I’m thrilled to be here on your lovely blog today!

One of the fascinating parts about writing a historical (and paranormal) story is the wonderful world of research. I spent hours devouring books and talking to experts on Norse mythology. The ancient Vikings had a complex and layered belief system, and I found it mesmerizing to study.

The Vikings followed a set of guidelines known as the Nine Noble Virtues. These were a set of moral codes and edicts taken from several sources, mainly the Hávamál (ancient Norse poems that are ascribed to the God Odin), and other Icelandic sagas. These virtues contained insight into the wisdom and values of the Vikings. Here they are:

Courage, truth, honor, fidelity, discipline, hospitality, industriousness, self-reliance, and perseverance.

Therefore, when writing Magnar’s story, I thought to give the Wolves of Clan Sutherland their own set of virtues and expanded on them. This elite guard for King William of Scotland also happens to be men who are part wolf. Here they are:

The Nine Noble Virtues of Sutherland Wolf Lore

~ Learn to control the beast within. If not, the man will cease to exist.

~ First lesson for the wolf—the man is always Alpha.

~ Scotland is our home. Orkneyjar calls to our soul.

~ When conflicted, follow the path of the stars. Odin will shine his light upon you.

~ Keep your weapon as strong as Thor’s hammer.

~ Discipline your beast to honor the code of the Brotherhood.

~ Honor the Gods. Do not beg at their feet for mercy.

~ When All Father calls you to His table, storm proudly across the void.

~ Remember your ancestors and honor their wisdom.

Sounds like a wonderfully magical story and series, Mary! I can’t wait to read it and wish you all the best!

A little more about Magnar:

Known as the Barbarian, Magnar MacAlpin is a fierce ruler for those under his command. As leader of the Wolves of Clan Sutherland, his loyalty and obedience lies with Scotland. However, the king’s last demand is not something Magnar will tolerate.

After Elspeth Gunn’s brother the Chieftain of Castle Steinn is murdered, she flees with her nephew, and finds a safety amongst a band of men who are rumored to be part wolf. When the king forces her to wed a heathen Northman, she fears losing her heart and soul not only to the man, but the beast as well.

In order to restore peace to a shattered clan, Magnar and Elspeth travel a treacherous path that challenges their beliefs. When evil seeks to destroy ancient traditions, will Magnar be compelled to restrain his wolf or allow him free to protect those he loves?

A peek between the pages:

She stomped the ground with her foot. “I will not be forced to marry a…a heathen!”

He gritted his teeth—her words sparked outrage from his inner beast. Glancing over his shoulder, he offered, “Then which would you prefer? Halvard or me? Make your choice, Elspeth. Did you not consider I do not favor this union either?”

Confusion marred her features. She fisted her hands on her hips and glanced upward. “Did you argue against this marriage with King William?”

“Aye.”

“Yet he convinced you?”

“Aye.”

When she returned her gaze to him again, resolve and a bit of stubbornness filled them. “Why, Magnar?”

“The king will permit me to continue with my duties with the elite guard, including an important task which requires my attention after our marriage.”

Chewing on her bottom lip, she nodded slowly. “Then you will be absent most months from Steinn?”

“Most assuredly, and when I am there, Erik will be my focus.”

Her face softened as she moved slowly toward Magnar. “Therefore this marriage is in name only for Erik’s protection, aye?”

Annoyed with the direction of his thoughts, he looked away. How Magnar longed to tell the lie on the tip of his tongue. The word ached to be released. He turned and stared into her jeweled eyes in an attempt to offer her any hope of what she wanted to hear.

When she placed a hand on his arm, she whispered, “Tell me honestly, Magnar.”

He swallowed and removed her hand from his arm. Placing it securely over his heart, he stated, “Our marriage will be binding in all ways, Elspeth—in name and body. You may worship your God and I shall do so with mine, but ken this, you will be mine completely.”

The battle of emotions splayed across her face. She stepped closer and pulled her hand free from his. “Then you understand this, Magnar MacAlpin, you can have my body on my terms. The time of my choosing. I am tired of having men telling me what to do. Will you accept my terms?”

By the hounds! Her words sparked his lust further. Magnar concluded he did not want a simpering wife by his side. For the first time, he yearned to have one challenging him—in mind and body.

Grasping her around the waist, he ignored her gasp and cupped her chin. Her eyes widened as he slowly lowered his head. “Agreed.” He breathed the word against her cheek.

Buy the book:

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.

Connect with her:

WEBSITE/BLOG: https://www.marymorganauthor.com/

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

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

TWITTER: http://twitter.com/m_morganauthor

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

PINTEREST: www.pinterest.com/marymorgan50/

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

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

AUDIBLE AUTHOR PAGE: https://www.audible.com/author/Mary-Morgan/B00KPE3NWI

THE SWORD UNSHEATHED ~ Worldwide Release

01 Monday Jun 2020

Posted by Judith Sterling in Uncategorized

≈ 12 Comments

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Amazon gift card, excerpt, Guardians of Erin, Ireland, Judith Sterling, new release, paranormal fantasy, Silver Dagger Book Tours, The Cauldron Stirred, The Spear Alight, The Stone Awakened, The Sword Unsheathed, worldwide release, YA series

Today’s the day! It’s the worldwide release of The Sword Unsheathed, the third book in my young adult paranormal fantasy series, Guardians of Erin. I’m excited to share it with you, and I’ll soon start writing the fourth and final book, The Spear Alight.

Remember, the first two books–The Cauldron Stirred and The Stone Awakened–are currently on sale for 99 cents, so there’s never been a better time to catch up on the story. You’ll feel like you’ve traveled to Ireland, while still enjoying the safety and comfort of your own home.

I’m also kicking off a month-long blog tour with Silver Dagger Book Tours, featuring not just the new release but all three books in the Guardians of Erin series. There’ll be excerpts and more, and you can enter to win a $20 Amazon gift card. Check it out here!

Now, here’s a little about The Sword Unsheathed:

Ashling Donoghue is no closer to finding her parents than she was the night they disappeared. But hope returns as her brother Kian channels the Sword of Light, revealing past-life secrets and truths long suppressed.

The more she learns, the greater she fears the darkness that drowns the Netherworld also drives her. Is Aengus her true love, or is it Lorcan? Does her future wait in shadow or the light?

One point is clear: the threads of her past-self are woven inextricably into the tapestry of her soul. An impossible choice looms before her, and all the while, evil is poised to strike.

A peek between the pages:

“Close your eyes, and don’t open them until I tell you.”

Nerves atwitter, I did as Aengus asked. A brief, subtle tingling sensation swept through my body as we slipped into the Otherworld.

A moment later, he released one of my hands but held fast to the other. “All right. You can look now.”

I opened my eyes. We stood before an immense, grass-topped mound surrounded by a multitude of tightly-packed, white stones.

It looked familiar. “Wait a minute. This is a famous prehistoric tomb. What’s it called? Newgrange?”

Aengus nodded. “I call it Sí in Bhrú, and it’s part of Brú na Bóinne, or the ‘Palace of the Boyne’ in County Meath. We’re in the valley of the River Boyne.”

I gave him a sideways glance. “Did you say ‘palace’?”

“In the physical world, this is an ancient temple and passage tomb, more than five thousand years old. Here in the Otherworld…well, it’s best to show you.”

The next instant, we stood inside a grand, circular hall, far larger than the mound we’d viewed outside, with a high, domed ceiling. Tri-spiral designs covered the walls, but the space was empty except for a five-tiered fountain at its center.

My gaze locked onto the trickling, golden liquid. A feeling of déjà vu overwhelmed me, and I shivered. “Is that…mead?”

“You remember!”

I turned to him. “Remember what exactly?”

“This fountain flows eternally with mead. My parents gave it to us as a wedding gift.”

“To you and Caer, you mean.”

He squeezed my hand. “Does anything else spark your memory?”

“The spirals seem familiar.”

His blue eyes shone. “They should. We lived here for centuries.”

“Caer lived here, not me.”

“But you were Caer.”

My insecurities ganged up on me and knotted my stomach. Is that the only reason why you want me? Because of who I once was?

Could I ask that out loud? What if he said yes?

Yes or no, I had to know. A lasting relationship required honesty and communication. My parents’ love had taught me that, and I wanted nothing less.

I pulled my hand from his grasp and took a step back. “Maybe you wish I still was Caer.”

His blissful expression devolved into a frown. After a heart-stopping moment, he found his voice. “What?”

“Sometimes I wonder whether you like me or just who I used to be.”

“You can’t fight your soul’s history.”

“Especially when everyone keeps shoving it down my throat.” My gut tightened further.

“Who’s everyone?”

I huffed. “Kian. Robin. Deirdre. Lorcan. And now—”

“Lorcan?” There was an edge to his voice.

“Yes, Lorcan. I’ve seen him a couple of times, but not because I went looking…” I couldn’t finish that sentence. My soul had obviously sought Lorcan the night I traveled to Dun Aengus.

“Ashling, you know how I feel about him.”

“Yeah, well, you weren’t around to stop me, were you?”

His frown deepened. “What do you mean?”

“It’s hard to have a relationship with someone who’s never around.”

“And Lorcan is around. Is that what you’re saying?”

“He’s always there, waiting in the wings, ready to take your place.”

Aengus slammed a fist into his other hand. “It’s time I showed him—”

“No! It’s time you showed me whether you want me or Caer, because I’ve had it with ghosts from the past messing up my—”

He grasped my arms and pulled me close. His mouth came down on mine in a searing kiss. Releasing my arms, he stole his own around me, and I responded in kind. Bodies and tongues entwined, we rode the wave of the kiss for a blissful moment that seemed as eternal as the bubbling fountain beside us. Nothing else mattered.

When at last he pulled back, he gave me a tender smile. “Does that answer your question?”

“Um…” My head still spun from the kiss.

“I kissed you, not Caer. I brought you here tonight because I wanted to share a piece of myself with you. It’s only natural I wondered if you’d remember it. After all, a part of your soul lived here for ages.”

I scanned the vacant, cavernous space. “If we lived here so long, where’s all the furniture?”

The light in his eyes dimmed. “Once upon a time, this place brimmed with beauty…with rare treasures, music, poetry, and the laughter of friends and courtiers. But when you left…when Caer left…nothing was the same. I couldn’t stay.” He squeezed his eyes shut, as if to block out painful memories.

Thick tentacles of worry and guilt wrapped around my heart as though a legendary kraken sought to drown me in a sea of regret. I placed a hand on Aengus’s cheek. “I’m sorry.”

His eyes opened, and he covered my hand with his. “Don’t be.”

Buy the book:

That’s all for now. Wishing you a great start to the week! 🙂

GUARDIANS OF ERIN, Books 1 & 2 ~ on sale for 99 cents!

30 Saturday May 2020

Posted by Judith Sterling in Uncategorized

≈ 6 Comments

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books on sale, Guardians of Erin, Judith Sterling, new release, paranormal fantasy, The Cauldron Stirred, The Stone Awakened, The Sword Unsheathed, young adult series

Only two more days until the release of The Sword Unsheathed, the third book in the series. I’m excited to share it with you!

Want to catch up on the story beforehand? The first two books are on sale for 99 cents!

https://judithmarshallauthor.com/my-books/

Have a beautiful weekend! 🙂

LETTERS AND LIES by Colleen L. Donnelly

27 Wednesday May 2020

Posted by Judith Sterling in Uncategorized

≈ 14 Comments

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bestselling author, Colleen L. Donnelly, Judith Sterling, Letters and Lies, new release, Old West, The Wild Rose Press, Western Romance

Please welcome Colleen L. Donnelly, a bestselling author and sister Rose (published by The Wild Rose Press). She’s here to tell us about her new release, Letters and Lies, and why she wrote it. Take it away, Colleen!

Something about the old west brings out the humorous side of me, while other time periods I’ve written about have dredged up more hard-hitting dilemmas that pertain to the heart. Maybe this era, with all of the hardships homesteaders encountered as they forged their way across what became the United States, created the perfect mix of conditions to cause a woman to stand up and be counted along with the men. The grit and determination to lay hold of and maintain what was she believed was hers is awe inspiring…but then an amusing romp when the heroine tightens her grip behind a ladylike smile.

This story was written for fun, but also for the Louise Archer in all of us. I may have planted my character in the 1870s, that uncomfortable time when women teetered between the need to be strong and the rejection of it, but we each have our moment of knowing what we want, deciding a small lie or a red face are costs we’re willing to suffer for it, and facing in the end that we have far more savvy than anyone…including ourselves…thought.

If there is any “lesson” in the story, it is faith and hope in your open door. When the doorway to the West opened up, people and families felt the call to go find theirs and pass through it. When Louise receives a mailed proposal from a homesteader out West, she accepts with relish the open door to marriage she’d always waited for. But back then, as now, open doors close. Louise’s did, and with the spirit of a determined pioneer, she puts herself through over three-hundred pages of embarrassing escapades to wedge that door back open again. Only to find, like many frustrated settlers and even us, faith takes us to the door always meant to be ours to begin with.

A little more about Letters and Lies:

Louise Archer boards a westbound train in St. Louis to find the Kansas homesteader who wooed and proposed to her by correspondence, then jilted her by telegram – Don’t come, I can’t marry you. Giving a false name to hide her humiliation, her lie backfires when a marshal interferes and offers her his seat.

Marshal Everett McCloud intends to verify the woman coming to marry his homesteading friend is suitable. At the St. Louis train station, his plan detours when he offers his seat to a captivating woman whose name thankfully isn’t Louise Archer.

Everett’s plans thwart hers, until he begins to resemble the man she came west to find, and she the woman meant to marry his friend.

A peek between the pages:

“He wrote and changed your plans? Why didn’t you tell me? You know I love hearing his letters.”

Everyone loved hearing his letters. Or at least they’d pretended to. I glanced at my friends, especially the one who’d first suggested I correspond with her husband’s homesteading friend in Kansas who was ready to look for a wife. She dabbed at her eyes with a handkerchief while she flicked the fingers of her other hand in a weak wave. I dredged my soul in search of a smile. The man she’d introduced me to truly had penned everything I’d ever wanted in a husband, months of letters which convinced Mama Jim was my open door. Letters I’d foolishly carted from family to friend to blather every word like a desperate spinster. Drat.

“He didn’t send his change of plans in a letter, Mama. He sent them in a telegram.” Don’t come, I can’t marry you. The only words I never shared.

“Well I imagine your Jim has a surprise for you and didn’t have time to send a letter before you left for Crooked Creek. How thoughtful to wire you instead.”

Thoughtful…I felt poisoned and Mama would too if she ever found out Jim had shut my open door. Which she wouldn’t, since as soon as I got out there and found him, I’d wedge it back open again.

Buy the book:

Amazon

More about Colleen:

Born and raised in the Midwest, Colleen studied and worked in science, using that career to travel and explore other parts of the country. An avid fan of literature, both reading and writing, she loves tales involving moral dilemmas and the choices people come up against. A lover of the outdoors as well as a comfy living room, Colleen is always searching inside and out for the next good story.

Where to find her:

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

Thanks for joining us today, Colleen. Wishing you all the best with the book!

Sydney Winward’s New Release ~ ROOT BREW FLOAT

21 Thursday May 2020

Posted by Judith Sterling in Uncategorized

≈ 18 Comments

Tags

new release, One Scoop or Two, paranormal fantasy, paranormal romance, romance series, Root Brew Float, summer reading, Sydney Winward

I’m excited to welcome sister Rose (published by the Wild Rose Press) Sydney Winward back to my blog! We’re spotlighting her new release, Root Brew Float, which is part of our publisher’s summer series, One Scoop or Two. Here’s the story:

Josephine Brevil has lived hundreds of years haunted by the horrors she experienced during the Salem Witch Trials. She takes great care to hide her powers, though serving a Root Brew Float laced with a magic potion now and again never hurt anybody. The Order sends her to Massachusetts to deal with a paranormal threat, and she meets the young and handsome widower, Clarence Watts. However, being with him comes with a choice. How can she choose between the man she loves and the magic she holds dear?

A peek between the pages:

“There’s a reason we’re inside the circle. Nothing can touch us in here. Now close your eyes and listen to my voice.” She paused for a moment to take a deep breath, channeling the magic swirling within her core. “Clarence Watts, our task here is to send your deceased wife into the afterlife, beyond the door and into the next realm. If you have done as I previously instructed, you have gotten rid of many of Heidi’s earthly belongings, which is a crucial step to letting her go. Now, imagine a rope that connects you to Heidi. Cut it and sever the tie.”

“It can’t be that simple.”

“It’s not. It’s symbolic of freeing her, but the act of letting go is another story altogether.”

“I’m not sure how I’m supposed to let her go.”

“Cling onto something else you care about. It usually helps.”

His hands tightened around hers. She cracked her eyes open, her heart racing as she stared at their conjoined hands. The word home echoed in her mind again, and when she tried to push it away, it slammed back into her stronger than before.

Home is with the Order, she insisted.

Yet, her pounding heart didn’t believe her.

Book Trailer

Intrigued? Here’s where to buy the book:

Amazon ~ Barnes and Noble ~ Applebooks

A little about Sydney:

Sydney Winward was born with an artistic brain and a love of discovery for new talents. From drawing to sewing to music, she has loved to explore every opportunity that comes her way. At a young age, Sydney discovered her love of writing and wrote her first book at twelve years old, and since then, she hasn’t been able to stop writing. Her active imagination and artistic mind take her away to different worlds and time periods, making every new story a fantastic adventure. When she is not writing (or fawning over animals in the neighborhood) she spends time with her husband and children at home in Utah.

Where to find her:

Website ~ Twitter ~ Facebook ~ Goodreads ~ Amazon Author Page ~ Instagram

Thanks so much for sharing your new release with us, Sydney. Wishing you all the best with it! 🙂

Stress Busting Book Festival ~ THE SWORD UNSHEATHED

07 Thursday May 2020

Posted by Judith Sterling in Uncategorized

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Amazon gift card, Barnes and Noble gift card, combat stress, excerpt, giveaway, Guardians of Erin, Judith Sterling, N. N. Light's Book Heaven, new release, sneak peek, Stress Busting Book Festival, The Sword Unsheathed, YA books, YA paranormal fantasy, young adult series

The Stress Busting Book Festival is in full swing at N. N. Light’s Book Heaven, and today, my young adult paranormal fantasy, The Sword Unsheathed, is in the spotlight! You can get a sneak peek inside this soon-to-be-released third book in the Guardians of Erin series and learn how I combat stress. Check it out here!

While you’re there, remember to enter the giveaway. You could win one of the following:

~ $50 Amazon (US) or Barnes and Noble Gift Card

~ $25 Amazon (US) or Barnes and Noble Gift Card

~ $15 Amazon (US) or Barnes and Noble Gift Card

~ $10 Amazon (US) or Barnes and Noble Gift Card

Open internationally

Runs May 1 – June 3

Drawing will be held on June 4.

See you there! 🙂

WILL RISE FROM ASHES by Jean M. Grant

07 Tuesday Apr 2020

Posted by Judith Sterling in Uncategorized

≈ 12 Comments

Tags

audiobook, Jean M. Grant, Judith Sterling, New England authors, new release, The Wild Rose Press, Will Rise from Ashes, women's fiction, Yellowstone National Park

Author Jean M. Grant–one of my sister Roses (published by The Wild Rose Press)–has a new audio book out: Will Rise from Ashes, narrated by Caroline Hewitt and Andrew Perkins. Congratulations, Jean!

If you enjoy women’s fiction, check it out. Here’s a little about the story:

Living is more than mere survival.

Young widow AJ Sinclair has persevered through much heartache. Has she met her match when the Yellowstone supervolcano erupts, leaving her separated from her youngest son and her brother? Tens of thousands are dead or missing in a swath of massive destruction. She and her nine-year-old autistic son, Will, embark on a risky road trip from Maine to the epicenter to find her family. She can’t lose another loved one.

Along the way, they meet Reid Gregory, who travels his own road to perdition looking for his sister. Drawn together by AJ’s fear of driving and Reid’s military and local expertise, their journey to Colorado is fraught with the chaotic aftermath of the eruption. AJ’s anxiety and faith in humanity are put to the test as she heals her past, accepts her family’s present, and embraces uncertainty as Will and Reid show her a world she had almost forgotten.

Where to buy the audio book:

Audible ~ Amazon ~ Barnes and Noble ~ iTunes ~ Kobo ~ Google books

What Jean has to say about the book and some fun facts about Yellowstone National Park:

Yellowstone is a scientist’s Disneyworld. My background is in microbiology, immunology, and marine science, but our family loves all things geology and natural wonders. Research for this book was hands-on.

How about a few fun facts?

It became the first National Park in 1872. Over 5 million people visit it annually.
Yellowstone is a hydrothermal wonderland with over 10,000 hydrothermal features: geysers, hot springs, mudpots, steam vents, and over 500 geysers.
The park is the size of Delaware and Rhode Island combined, covering 2.2 million acres.
Yellowstone is a supervolcano. Two massive magma bodies bubble beneath the park.
There are over 20 supervolcanoes across the globe, Yellowstone being one of them.
The park is not all geology wonderland…there are hundreds of unique bird, fish, and mammal species in this gem in northwest Wyoming. Some signatures: bears (black and brown/Grizzly), bison, and wolves. Because of extensive programs, endangered species now flourish in the park.
Old Faithful has been very faithful, erupting approximately every 90 minutes.
Sadly, human trash and pollution has caused many of the vibrant hot pools to lose their color over the years. However, Yellowstone has created innovated programs to manage waste and human impact.
Yellowstone has had 3 [2 of them being “supervolcanic”] caldera-forming eruptions over the past 3 million years (2.1 million, 1.3 million, and 640,000 years ago, respectively). Will it erupt again? Yes. Soon, like tomorrow? Not likely. The last eruption: 174,000 years ago, with 60 smaller ones since.
The VEI scale measures explosivity of volcanoes and runs from 0 to 8.
Be safe and read danger signs! To date over 92 people have died in the park, mostly from falling into burning hot springs, off ledges, or tempting fate with a bison.

More about Jean:

Jean’s background is in science and she draws from her interests in history, nature, and her family for inspiration. She writes historical and contemporary romances and women’s fiction. She also writes articles for family-oriented travel magazines and websites. When she’s not writing or chasing children, she enjoys tending to her flower gardens, hiking, and doing just about anything in the outdoors.

Where to find her:

Website ~ Twitter ~ Facebook ~ Goodreads ~ Bookbub ~ Amazon Author Page ~ The Wild Rose Press ~ Instagram

Best of luck with the audio book, Jean!

WHAT WAS I THINKING by Donna Simonetta

29 Wednesday Jan 2020

Posted by Judith Sterling in Uncategorized

≈ 17 Comments

Tags

A Sweeter Spot, contemporary romance, Donna Simonetta, Judith Sterling, Las Vegas, new release, Rivers Bend Trilogy, The Wild Rose Press, What Was I Thinking

A Vegas fling never leads to love…does it?

We’re about to find out in What Was I Thinking! It’s the new release from one of my dear friends, Donna Simonetta, who also happens to be a sister Rose (published by The Wile Rose Press). This is the third book in her Rivers Bend Trilogy, and I have to say, I LOVED the first one, A Sweeter Spot.

Here’s the scoop on the new story:

A wild Vegas fling isn’t the traditional Thanksgiving celebration, and Lily and Jason have been like oil and water since they met. Blaming their steamy hook-up on too many shots at the bar, they head home.

Back in the real world, Jason wonders if he’s ready to give up his crown as the Playboy King of Rivers Bend to be with just one woman. And Lily has enough on her plate right now without adding Jason Braden to the mix, even if their attraction is crazy-strong.

But life is good at throwing curveballs, and a lot can happen between Thanksgiving and Valentine’s Day. Maybe even enough to lead these two polar opposites home to each other in Rivers Bend.

A peek between the pages:

“I think about a lot of things.”

She felt him stiffen up behind her, and Jason’s tone of voice was defensive. She hadn’t meant to hurt his feelings. “I know you do; I didn’t mean anything by it. We poke at each other”—she shrugged—“it’s kind of our thing.”

His grip on her hand loosened, and then he took control of the dance, by twirling her until her back was pressed to his front, and he began to move sinuously in time to the rhythm. His breath tickled her ear, as he spoke right in it to be heard over the music. “We’ve got a thing, Moonbeam?”

Jason had ditched the tie and suit jacket after the wedding, and his body heat scorched her through his crisp white dress shirt. And man-oh-Maneschewitz, his lean, hard body felt good. Really good. The Marine might be bulked up, but Jason’s body felt like it had been made for hers, which given their mutual antagonism, seemed like proof Fate was enjoying a good laugh at her expense. Against Lily’s better judgment, her body melted into his warmth and began to move with his.

“Sure, we’ve got a thing,” she said over her shoulder, and was irritated to hear a trace of breathlessness in her voice. She cleared her throat and continued, “Like that—you calling me Moonbeam, because you know it bugs me.”

Where to buy the book:

Amazon | Apple | Barnes & Noble

More about Donna:

Donna Simonetta writes the kind of books she loves to read––contemporary romances to help you escape the real world for a little while. Writing is her third career. She toiled in the business world, and when she decided being an Account Executive wasn’t for her went back to school to get her MLS degree. Next, she worked in a school library for many years. But, Donna dreamed of being an author since she was a little girl, and began to squeeze writing into her day. After the publication of her second book, she decided to leave the library and become a full-time author. It can be a solitary job, so she loves to connect with her readers.

Donna lives in Maryland with her husband, who is her real-life romance hero. They enjoy traveling to visit far-flung family and friends, and spending time on the beach with an umbrella drink and a good book.

Where to find her:

Lovely to feature your latest release, Donna. Wishing you all the best with it!

TO WEAVE A HIGHLAND TAPESTRY by Mary Morgan

12 Thursday Dec 2019

Posted by Judith Sterling in Uncategorized

≈ 24 Comments

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award winning author, Celtic paranormal, excerpt, fantasy romance, guest post, Judith Sterling, Legend of the Yew Tree, Mary Morgan, new release, Order of the Dragon Knights, Scotland, The Wild Rose Press, To Weave a Highland Tapestry

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.

Where to buy the book:

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.

If you enjoy history, tortured heroes, and a wee bit of magic, then time-travel within the pages of her books.