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I’m so happy to be on Love Romance Reads. Your site is lovely. I feel like I’ve been waiting forever to share my newest release, Story of Us. It is the final book in the Love Unexpected Series and was the story that practically wrote itself. Declan and Sophia’s challenges, attraction, and desire to weather storms together felt more natural than in any other story I’ve written. Declan James figured he’d be a bachelor for the rest of his life and was perfectly fine with that. But when Sophia Strombi—a friend’s younger sister—comes back to Brockton Point, everything Declan was once sure of is up in the air. The only thing he knows for certain right now is that Sophia is a woman who could make him forget all of his rules. I enjoy writing stories that focus not just on families and friendships, but ones that explore the characters’ feelings about their own sense of belonging within their circle. So often, we are harder on ourselves than anyone else is. For Sophia, coming home meant facing a lot of things, including leaving Brockton Point at eighteen and choosing not to be part of her family’s pizzeria business. Though she thinks the path she took made her the person she is today, it’s still hard—in fiction and in life—to feel like we’ve let people down or not lived up to their expectations. Declan didn’t have the same sense of familial obligations but he’s got some struggles of his own. Content with a life of serial dating, he’s more shocked than anyone else that he’s started to crave a home, a wife, a family—a future with someone. When Sophia walks back into his life, he doesn’t know why she’s the one. Simply that, she is. I tried this for another blog and was so happy with it that I want to share here as well. I’m working on two baseball books for Entangled’s Bliss line so I have baseball on the brain. Below are Declan and Sophia’s Rookie Cards.
** Photos courtesy of Pinterest and my dreams that if Story of Us was ever made into a movie, Mr. Chris Hemsworth would play Declan and the lovely Monica Bellucci would be Sophia. ** The Story of Us Declan James has been Brockton Point’s most ineligible bachelor—happy with his short-term relationships and focusing on his business. But now that his closest friends have found their happily-ever-afters, he can’t help but wonder what that might be like. And then Sophia Strombi shows up on his doorstep. Sophia’s life is—well there’s no other word for it—a mess. She’s grateful to have some work at her brother’s best friend’s bar, and a place to stay. Since she’s working hard to get her life back on track, she’s desperately trying to ignore the fact her boss makes her heart pound in a good way. Wait—no. That’s not good at all. Besides, she has a huge secret she’s keeping from everyone—one that’s a life-changer. Each book in the Love Unexpected series is STANDALONE: * Let It Be Me * Never Expected You * Story of Us About Jody Jody Holford lives in British Columbia with her husband and two daughters. She's a huge fan of Rainbow Rowell, Nora Roberts, Jill Shalvis, and Emily Giffen. She's unintentionally funny and rarely on time for anything. She loves books, Converse shoes, and diet Pepsi, in no particular order. When she has to go out into the real world, she’s a teacher. She writes multiple genres but her favourite is romance because she’s a big fan of love and finding happily ever after. Probably because she’s lucky enough to have both. Website > Facebook > Twitter > Instagram > LoveRomanceReads >
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St. Patrick’s Day holds such a special place in my heart that I simply had to claim today’s spot on the blog for my own. First and foremost, know that I am 98% Irish. I didn’t have to spit in a cup for Ancestry.com to tell me that, but I did it anyway because I wanted to be able to say it with confidence backed by DNA and science! Hee Hee. The other 2% is some vague Middle European DNA that didn’t even qualify for a specific landmark. I didn’t need the proof donating my saliva and cheek cells garnered, because like most people have told me my entire life, I have—quote--the map of Ireland stamped on my face—unquote. What that generally means is that I have fair skin peppered with a plethora of freckles, light eyes, and before it went gray at 16, black hair. You might be thinking, shouldn’t that be red hair? Nope. Not all Irish lasses are redheads. I’m what’s often referred to as black Irish, a hat-tip to the black hair and light eyes. As a child, my Irish born and bred grandmother Bridget, or Bridie as she was known to her family (the folks at Ellis Island Americanized it to Barbara when she arrived at 16) loved to celebrate St. Patrick’s day in a big way. Her apartment would be filled for days with the sweet aroma of the Irish Soda Breads she’d baked with her gnarled arthritic hands and that she gave away to family and friends. I would savor every last crumb because she only made it once a year and I wanted the happiness it gave my taste buds to last long after the 17th was over and gone. Hers was the only corn beef and cabbage dish I’ve ever been able to eat. Every other recipe has failed to live up to the deliciousness of hers. I asked once why this was and she replied, “Because I add an extra dose of love to the pot.” I stole that line for an upcoming book of mine. I grew up in New York City, and every year my family and I would attend the St. Patrick’s Day Parade the city sponsored and still does to this day. The wearing o' the green made everyone Irish on this special day. When I got older and attended Hunter College/Bellevue School of Nursing, I was honored to march in the parade and hold our school’s banner. I have to admit this was a highlight of my 4 years at the college. The enclosed photo is from the last parade I marched in in 1982. If you start on the left side of the photo, I’m the second one in, with the short curly hair (I was still dying it back to black in those days) glasses, and carnation on my sweater. When I look at this picture now I can see the absolute glee on my face and in my smile to be representing my school on my favorite day of the year.  Another wonderful thing that has always warmed my heart is that my dear mother-in-law came into the world on March 17th. And if ever there was a lass who had the heart and spirit of a leprechaun, it was her. Quick witted and always smiling, she was one of those people you were drawn to in a crowded room, who you just knew was going to make your day better. In my new series A MATCH MADE IN HEAVEN, book 1 -- DEARLY BELOVED -- introduces 93 year old Fiona Bridget Mary Darcy Sullivan O’Dowd Heaven Scallopini, or as she’s simple called, Nanny Fee. Graced with an Irishman’s wit, convoluted logic, and the gift of Blarney, Nanny Fee is the bedrock of the O’Dowd sisters (her granddaughters). If I am ever blessed enough to live to the age of 93, I want to be Fiona. She lives life to the fullest, loves completely and unconditionally, isn’t ashamed to flirt- even at her age - or meddle in the lives of her beloved granddaughters one wit. Nanny Fee was a labor of love for me to create and – as you can probably guess – she’s a composite of my Irish grandmother, my mother-in-law, and all the Daughters of Erin I’ve known throughout my life. As a little bonus today, I’m sharing my grandmother’s Irish Soda Bread recipe. Remember to add a little extra dose of love to every loaf! Ingredients needed: 2 ¼ cups all purpose white flour (don’t use wheat!) ¼ cup sugar 1 1/2 teaspoons BAKING POWDER ½ teaspoon BAKING SODA pinch of salt 4 Tablespoons of cold butter, cut 1 cup raisins or currants ( raisins are better!!) 1 cup buttermilk Pre-heat your oven to 350 degrees F Sift flour into a large bowl and then add sugar, Baking POWDER and Baking SODA and salt. Mix together with a wooden spoon. CUT in the butter pieces a few a time until the dough resembles a coarse meal. Add the raisin and then the buttermilk a little at a time. Stir until the dough is moist – not wet. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead until most of the stickiness is reduced. ( about 8-10 times) Form into an oval shape and then take a sharp knife and cut a “cross” crosswise about ¼ of the way through the dough, so it is scored into 4ths, but all still connected in a loaf. Place on a parchment lined baking sheet and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until lightly browned on top. DO not over bake because it will be “doughy” and tough in the center. Cool for 30 minutes or server warm after 10, with butter, clotted cream, or whipped butter. Actually, I like it naked – just the bread! Dearly Beloved: A Match Made in Heaven Colleen O’Dowd manages a thriving bridal business with her sisters in Heaven, New Hampshire. After fleeing Manhattan and her cheating ex-fiancé, Colleen still believes in happily ever afters. But with a demanding business to run, her sisters to look after, and their 93-year-old grandmother to keep out of trouble, she's worried she’ll never find Mr. Right. Playboy Slade Harrington doesn’t believe in marriage. His father’s six weddings have taught him life is better as an unencumbered single guy. But Slade loves his little sister. He'll do anything for her, including footing the bill for her dream wedding. He doesn’t plan on losing his heart to a smart-mouthed, gorgeous wedding planner, though. When her ex-fiancé comes back into the picture, Colleen must choose between Mr. Right and Mr. Right Now Dearly Beloved excerptI stared at him for a moment, mulling over how I wanted to ask him what I’d been dying to ask since we’d been in my office. Finally, because there was no other way to get around it but bluntly, I said, “I feel like we need to discuss your father. Come to a decision about where he fits in the wedding.” When the warmth in his expression shifted to ice, a weaker-willed person might have stopped there. Since I’m not weak and my parents have always told me I have a real problem with knowing when to quit, I pushed on. “It seems to me as if Isabella wants him to be included. Whether in a father-of-the-bride role, or simply as a guest, I really do think she’d like him to attend, but, for whatever reason, she’s reluctant to press you on it.” Did I say ice? What’s colder than ice? Because whatever it is, that was the expression floating in Slade’s eyes right then as he glared at me. Warning bells blared in my head, but that thing about me not knowing when to quit? Yeah, it’s real. “I think Isabella’s afraid of upsetting you if she tells you how she feels or asks your permission. She loves you so much and respects your opinion.” “You don’t know anything about my sister. Or me.” He lowered his hands from his hips, kept them fisted at his sides. “Or our relationship with our father.” “True, but I get the sense—” He barreled over me as if I hadn’t said a word. “You’ve been hired to do a job, Miss O’Dowd. I suggest you do it and keep your thoughts about my family to yourself. You’re a wedding planner, not a family counselor.” His voice dropped a level, deepening as it became softer. The cadence became clipped, the tone more...lethal. If this was the way he acted in business, it was a wonder he hadn’t been convicted of corporate homicide yet. “Look, I’m not asking simply to be nosy,” I said, my voice rising in opposition to his. “I really do have to plan all this out. There’s still the rehearsal and the dinner after it left to deal with. Then there’s the reception seating. Plus, if he is included, I’ll need to make sure he has a room, a tuxedo, and find out if he’s bringing a guest.” “What aren’t you understanding about this, Miss O’Dowd?” Slade asked, taking a step toward me. If he’d thought to intimidate me with his height, he’d miscalculated. Retreat wasn’t a word in my lexicon. I simply lifted my chin and stared right back at him. “I understand a lot more than you think, Mr. Harrington. About all sorts of things. Arrogant and pigheaded men included.” When he continued to stand like a plank of wood in front of me, his mouth turning down and creasing the sides of his jaw, I knew--knew—I should stop. But... About Peggy Peggy Jaeger writes contemporary romances about strong women, the families who support them, and the men who can’t live without them. Family and food play huge roles in Peggy’s stories because she believes there is nothing that holds a family structure together like sharing a meal…or two…or ten. Dotted with humor and characters that are as real as they are loving, Peggy brings all aspects of life into her stories: life, death, sibling rivalry, illness, and the desire for everyone to find their own happily ever after. Growing up the only child of divorced parents she longed for sisters, brothers and a family that vowed to stick together no matter what came their way. Through her books, she has created the families she wanted as that lonely child. Website > Facebook > Twitter > Instagram > LoveRomanceReads > You’ve probably heard it said that a song can bring back a memory. And I’m sure we all have examples of this being true. Whether it’s the first song you danced to with your spouse, or a tune that reminds you of a rough patch you or a loved one went through. For me, I will forever think of my Dad on the rare occasion that I hear the song “Happy, Happy Birthday Baby.” He used to drive me to my afternoon kindergarten class, back when kindergarten was a half-day affair and my dad worked second shift. The country radio station he listened to must have had a birthday segment at that exact timeframe, because without fail, the chorus of this song was playing as we drove to school. My dad would sing along, I would laugh, and all was right with the world. But another thing I’ve found that can stir up memories is food. When I was a kid, my mom used to make an apple salad that I thought was something special. Of course, at that point, I hadn’t experienced Apple Snicker Salad (https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/221192/apple-snicker-salad/), which is far more delectable if I’m being honest. But there was something about my mom’s salad that satisfied my taste buds like nothing else. I now know how easy and cheap it is to make, and as an added bonus—it’s pretty darn healthy, too. I’ve even made this quick recipe as a refreshing lunch for work. For me, the crisp, clean taste of this salad brings back memories of a simpler time. Below is the easy recipe I gleaned from my mom. We never actually measure the ingredients—we just throw them together until the proportions seem right. But this gives you something to start with, and you can adapt to your own preferences from there! Apple Waldorf Salad (1-2 servings) 1 medium apple, unpared and cut into bite-size pieces. 2/3 c. raisins 1/3 c. chopped celery 1/3 c. walnut pieces (optional) 1/8 to 1/4 c. Miracle Whip (I use Miracle Whip Light) Just mix everything together in a bowl. The dressing helps the apples not turn brown, so while the salad is best served fresh, it can last all day without going bad. After a day or so, though, the apples get a bit mushy. There’s a mom-inspired recipe in my new release, A Heart Held Captive, as well. Emily tells her new beau Cole about a memorable meal her now-deceased mom used to make for her. Check out my book to see how this meal becomes a special part of their story! A Heart Held Captive |
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Working together, these three ladies empower each other because they are a team.
There are three Misfits novels.
The first book, Kuralon Rescue, tells the story of how the ladies save a couple of men sentenced to work to death on a prison planet called Kuralon. It’s how the ladies get together and how they acquired their name.
The second, Rescuing Romila, sees a little discord in our group of misfits as they become involved in drug smuggling and other nasty goings-on.
The third, just published, is Escape from Shar Burk. Jirra, Toreni, and Chet are at a restaurant on Shar Burk when Marisa drops in — literally. She'd been thrown from a hotel window, no longer required to report for duty as Shar Burk's governor's mistress. At first, they're just helping a fellow female escape a brute, but it doesn't end there. Of course it doesn't.
You’ll find all of the Morgan Selwood books listed here.
There are three Misfits novels.
The first book, Kuralon Rescue, tells the story of how the ladies save a couple of men sentenced to work to death on a prison planet called Kuralon. It’s how the ladies get together and how they acquired their name.
The second, Rescuing Romila, sees a little discord in our group of misfits as they become involved in drug smuggling and other nasty goings-on.
The third, just published, is Escape from Shar Burk. Jirra, Toreni, and Chet are at a restaurant on Shar Burk when Marisa drops in — literally. She'd been thrown from a hotel window, no longer required to report for duty as Shar Burk's governor's mistress. At first, they're just helping a fellow female escape a brute, but it doesn't end there. Of course it doesn't.
You’ll find all of the Morgan Selwood books listed here.
About Greta
In my dreams I travel to distant planets, soar through the stars in spaceships, mix it with non-humanoid aliens. I meet strong women and equally strong men and watch them fall in love. Then I wake up and I'm living in a lovely town in Queensland, Australia with a husband and a multitude of wild native birds.
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Early in 2018, The Wild Rose Press sent out a submission call for in-house authors to write for the Deerbourne Inn, a new multi-author series that spans several sub-genres and heat levels of romance. I’d already published one novel with them and was pleased with both my editor’s and the publisher’s professionalism, so I was happy to submit a second manuscript.
Lyrical Embrace is book four in the series, which takes place in the fictional town of Willow Springs, Vermont. Each individual story focuses on one couple, the inn, small town life, and finding a happily ever after. The authors are sharing some of their characters, and it’s been fun working with them and tossing around ideas. The series stock characters include most of the town’s inhabitants, and those secondary characters jump from story to story, so you never know who will show up in the next book.
Lyrical Embrace is book four in the series, which takes place in the fictional town of Willow Springs, Vermont. Each individual story focuses on one couple, the inn, small town life, and finding a happily ever after. The authors are sharing some of their characters, and it’s been fun working with them and tossing around ideas. The series stock characters include most of the town’s inhabitants, and those secondary characters jump from story to story, so you never know who will show up in the next book.
When I first outlined the plot, I envisioned a woman fearing for her life. Erica, the heroine, flees the big city to escape her abusive, manipulative boyfriend and winds up stranded during a rainstorm. A lot of readers could probably relate to her and sympathize with such a situation, especially if they had experienced such neglect from supposed loved ones.
I love books and movies about rock stars, music, and partying, but I’m picky about the rock star romances I read since I just don’t like the cheating and drugs that are part of the lifestyle. For Lyrical Embrace, I featured a retired musician as the hero. Dylan has returned home and is getting his life back together after five years of drinking and jumping from groupie to groupie. He and Erica have an instant connection.
I wasn’t able to bring in any of my real-life experiences into this story, so I pulled ideas straight from my imagination, which is a pretty wild place to begin with. Stories about down-on-their-luck people or those who have experienced some kind of traumatic event has always spoken to me, so I tend to write that kind of story in order to give the hero and heroine a well-deserved happy ending.
Even though Erica is on the run, the story is still upbeat and fun. The characters are genuine and flawed. I enjoyed writing the novella, and I hope readers will love it.
I love books and movies about rock stars, music, and partying, but I’m picky about the rock star romances I read since I just don’t like the cheating and drugs that are part of the lifestyle. For Lyrical Embrace, I featured a retired musician as the hero. Dylan has returned home and is getting his life back together after five years of drinking and jumping from groupie to groupie. He and Erica have an instant connection.
I wasn’t able to bring in any of my real-life experiences into this story, so I pulled ideas straight from my imagination, which is a pretty wild place to begin with. Stories about down-on-their-luck people or those who have experienced some kind of traumatic event has always spoken to me, so I tend to write that kind of story in order to give the hero and heroine a well-deserved happy ending.
Even though Erica is on the run, the story is still upbeat and fun. The characters are genuine and flawed. I enjoyed writing the novella, and I hope readers will love it.
Lyrical Embrace
February 11, 2019
Novella
Contemporary ~ Romantic Suspense ~ Holiday ~ Small Town ~ Rock Stars
Out-of-work violinist Erica Timberly decides enough is enough. She leaves her abusive boyfriend and flees the big city, but then her car breaks down in the middle of the night. Though wary of men, she accepts help from Dylan Haynes, a stranger driving by on the road, and soon recognizes him as the sexy former drummer of her favorite indie rock band. Maybe, just maybe, her run of bad luck is finally turning around.
Music teacher Dylan Haynes knows Erica is in trouble, and her black eye is only the first clue. The stubborn yet vulnerable woman needs a friend, but he's determined to give her everything she deserves.
Will Erica listen to the music in her heart and trust Dylan, or will her past always threaten her future?
Novella
Contemporary ~ Romantic Suspense ~ Holiday ~ Small Town ~ Rock Stars
Out-of-work violinist Erica Timberly decides enough is enough. She leaves her abusive boyfriend and flees the big city, but then her car breaks down in the middle of the night. Though wary of men, she accepts help from Dylan Haynes, a stranger driving by on the road, and soon recognizes him as the sexy former drummer of her favorite indie rock band. Maybe, just maybe, her run of bad luck is finally turning around.
Music teacher Dylan Haynes knows Erica is in trouble, and her black eye is only the first clue. The stubborn yet vulnerable woman needs a friend, but he's determined to give her everything she deserves.
Will Erica listen to the music in her heart and trust Dylan, or will her past always threaten her future?
About Amber
Amber Daulton is the author of the romantic-suspense series Arresting Onyx and several standalone novellas. Her books are published through The Wild Rose Press and Books to Go Now, and are available in ebook, print on demand, audio, and foreign language formats. Amber lives in North Carolina with her husband and four demanding cats.
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It’s February and that means it’s time to watch one of my favorite romantic comedies “Letters to Juliet”. This movie is about a young American woman who discovers a long-lost love letter in the wall in Juliet’s courtyard in Verona, Italy. This wall, where people over the last century have left letters to lost lovers, is cared for by a group of woman known as the Secretaries of Juliet.
When the heroine finds the heart-sick letter, she goes on a quest to reunite the lovers. In the process she learns what true love really means.
I’m not normally a fan of romcoms (I’m not a fan of silly movies in general), but I love this movie. Maybe it’s because I’ve been to Juliet’s courtyard in Verona, Italy and to the countryside where the movie was filmed. Or maybe it’s because I’m a huge fan of not just Shakespeare’s play “Romeo and Juliet” but also of one of the original source materials titled “Giulietta e Romeo” by Luigi da Porto in 1524. So much a fan that my debut novel EVERY DEEP DESIRE is a romantic suspense Romeo and Juliet retelling.
Or maybe I’m a fan because the movie is based around the enduring concept of love letters.
Love letters have existed, in different forms, since people first started expressing in words the human concept of raw, unadulterated passion. Love letters can be traced through history with examples appearing on ancient papyrus scrolls all the way to our current-day Hallmark cards and text emojis. The Song of Solomon (in the Bible) is an example of God’s love for the individual. The Roman statesmen, Cicero and Pliny, wrote love letters to their wives. In 269 AD a bishop named Valentinus, on the night before he was martyred, wrote a letter to a young woman whom he’d converted to Christianity and signed it “From Your Valentine.”
Years later, in the late medieval/early Renaissance periods, love letters appeared during the Age of Chivalry. This was also the advent of Irish and Welsh cycles of poetry which included mythical stories of The Fianna, King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table. All of these stories told tales of romantic missives sent from far-away soldiers to their lady-loves. As these stories spread and grew in popularity, those who could read and write began sending their own love letters. These letters were passionate-yet-chaste letters of courtly love. Filled with compliments and self-doubt, these letters drove both the sender and the receiver to the outer edges of romantic tension.
This concept of courtly-yet-unrequited love continued up through the Eighteenth Century. Love letters found during this time are more personal, yet still chaste and pure, including letters between President John Adams and his wife Abigail. In the early eighteen-hundreds, Ludwig van Beethoven wrote his Immortal Beloved letters to an unknown woman. To say they’re passionate would be a grow understatement.
It’s not until the later nineteenth-century that love letters became more . . . erotic. Some say it was in response to the proprieties enforced during the Victorian Era, others believe it was due to the desperation caused by industrialization and the growing number of violent conflicts around the world.
When the heroine finds the heart-sick letter, she goes on a quest to reunite the lovers. In the process she learns what true love really means.
I’m not normally a fan of romcoms (I’m not a fan of silly movies in general), but I love this movie. Maybe it’s because I’ve been to Juliet’s courtyard in Verona, Italy and to the countryside where the movie was filmed. Or maybe it’s because I’m a huge fan of not just Shakespeare’s play “Romeo and Juliet” but also of one of the original source materials titled “Giulietta e Romeo” by Luigi da Porto in 1524. So much a fan that my debut novel EVERY DEEP DESIRE is a romantic suspense Romeo and Juliet retelling.
Or maybe I’m a fan because the movie is based around the enduring concept of love letters.
Love letters have existed, in different forms, since people first started expressing in words the human concept of raw, unadulterated passion. Love letters can be traced through history with examples appearing on ancient papyrus scrolls all the way to our current-day Hallmark cards and text emojis. The Song of Solomon (in the Bible) is an example of God’s love for the individual. The Roman statesmen, Cicero and Pliny, wrote love letters to their wives. In 269 AD a bishop named Valentinus, on the night before he was martyred, wrote a letter to a young woman whom he’d converted to Christianity and signed it “From Your Valentine.”
Years later, in the late medieval/early Renaissance periods, love letters appeared during the Age of Chivalry. This was also the advent of Irish and Welsh cycles of poetry which included mythical stories of The Fianna, King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table. All of these stories told tales of romantic missives sent from far-away soldiers to their lady-loves. As these stories spread and grew in popularity, those who could read and write began sending their own love letters. These letters were passionate-yet-chaste letters of courtly love. Filled with compliments and self-doubt, these letters drove both the sender and the receiver to the outer edges of romantic tension.
This concept of courtly-yet-unrequited love continued up through the Eighteenth Century. Love letters found during this time are more personal, yet still chaste and pure, including letters between President John Adams and his wife Abigail. In the early eighteen-hundreds, Ludwig van Beethoven wrote his Immortal Beloved letters to an unknown woman. To say they’re passionate would be a grow understatement.
It’s not until the later nineteenth-century that love letters became more . . . erotic. Some say it was in response to the proprieties enforced during the Victorian Era, others believe it was due to the desperation caused by industrialization and the growing number of violent conflicts around the world.
Regardless of why, as time progressed into the Twentieth Century, love letters became more personal and more interesting. In 1952, computer scientists at Manchester University built their Mark One computer not to crunch numbers but to write love letters including this gem, “My lust tempts your fond ardour. My liking ardently cares for your hunger.”
Now, in the Twenty-First Century, we have text emojis and screen swipes. Yet in spite of the technology, last year a record number of Valentine’s Day cards were bought and sent. And even the sales of personal stationary rose.
And that gives me hope. As I re-watch “Letters to Juliet” this year, I like to think that the art of writing letters, especially love letters, hasn’t died. Although technology adapts, people don’t change. We crave intimacy, not just through physical touch, but from the profound emotions found only in well-written words. May we all be Secretaries of Juliet, even if the words are crunched out by a love-sick computer in Manchester, England.
Now, in the Twenty-First Century, we have text emojis and screen swipes. Yet in spite of the technology, last year a record number of Valentine’s Day cards were bought and sent. And even the sales of personal stationary rose.
And that gives me hope. As I re-watch “Letters to Juliet” this year, I like to think that the art of writing letters, especially love letters, hasn’t died. Although technology adapts, people don’t change. We crave intimacy, not just through physical touch, but from the profound emotions found only in well-written words. May we all be Secretaries of Juliet, even if the words are crunched out by a love-sick computer in Manchester, England.
Every Deep Desire
He's taking back his honor, his freedom, and the woman he loves.
Rafe Montfort was a decorated Green Beret, the best of the best, until a disastrous mission and an unforgivable betrayal destroyed his life. Now, this deadly soldier has returned to the sultry Georgia swamps to reunite with his brothers, and take back all he lost. But Juliet must never know the truth behind what he's done...or the dangerous secret that threatens to take him from her forever.
It took Juliet Capel eight long years to put her life back together after her husband was taken from her. Now Rafe is back, determined to protect her at any cost, and it's not just her heart that's in danger. The swamps hold a secret long buried and far deadlier than either of them could have imagined...
Rafe Montfort was a decorated Green Beret, the best of the best, until a disastrous mission and an unforgivable betrayal destroyed his life. Now, this deadly soldier has returned to the sultry Georgia swamps to reunite with his brothers, and take back all he lost. But Juliet must never know the truth behind what he's done...or the dangerous secret that threatens to take him from her forever.
It took Juliet Capel eight long years to put her life back together after her husband was taken from her. Now Rafe is back, determined to protect her at any cost, and it's not just her heart that's in danger. The swamps hold a secret long buried and far deadlier than either of them could have imagined...
About Sharon
Sharon Wray is a librarian who once studied dress design in the couture houses of Paris and now writes about the men in her Deadly Force romantic suspense series where ex-Green Berets meet their match in smart, sexy heroines who teach these alpha males that Grace always defeats Reckoning.
Her acclaimed debut book EVERY DEEP DESIRE, a sexy, action-packed retelling of Romeo and Juliet, is about an ex-Green Beret determined to regain his honor, his freedom, and his wife.
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Her acclaimed debut book EVERY DEEP DESIRE, a sexy, action-packed retelling of Romeo and Juliet, is about an ex-Green Beret determined to regain his honor, his freedom, and his wife.
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Facebook >
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Instagram >
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Photo by Priscilla Du Preez on Unsplash
Years ago, when I started writing fiction again, I created YouTube videos, such as Historic Hotties: Rufus Sewell and Stephen Dillaine and Jane Austen Couples: You Got Me for fun. Of course, there are a lot of great video creators on YouTube (much better than I ever was), and their videos are great for a quick view of period drama men and couples. But, to get the full experience, I enjoy rewatching my favorite period dramas when I feel low, or when I want to celebrate something. I’m not going to rank these, because it all depends on my mood—sometimes I want brooding Rufus Sewell or Ciarán Hinds, sometimes adorable Rupert Penry-Jones or Jeremy Northam, sometimes delightful Colin Firth or Alan Rickman (to name just a few).
Love Comes Softly (2008) A touching Hallmark movie (Western) based on the Janette Oke novel. Dale Midkiff plays the widowed hero with strength and rugged calm.
Jane Eyre (2003): Though I’ve seen and liked most of the versions of the Charlotte Brontë novel, I especially like Toby Stephens (sigh—he plays a tortured hero so well) and Ruth Wilson in this adaptation.
Anne of Green Gables (1985 and 1987) Megan Follows is a treat as Anne. I also love Road to Avonlea, particularly Gus and Felicity’s romance.
Little Women (1994) So far, this is still my favorite version of the Louisa May Alcott book. And I love Jo and Prof. Bhaer (especially as played by Gabriel Byrne).
Emma (1996, 1996 TV, or 2009 TV) I know I’m an outlier among Jane Austen fans—I love Emma. And Knightly. I enjoyed each of these productions for various reasons, though I admit my favorite is the 2009 version with Romala Garai and Jonny Lee Miller.
Persuasion (1995 or 2007) Neither of these quite captures Persuasion (the novel) for me, but I like them both. Especially because of Ciarán Hinds and Rupert Penry-Jones, respectively.
Sense and Sensibility (1995 or 2008) Can you tell I’m a Jane Austen fan? I like both of these versions. I love Alan Rickman and Emma Thompson, but I also loved the 2008 version, both the way it was adapted and the cast.
The Young Victoria (2009) Starring Emily Blunt (pre-Mary Poppins) and Rupert Friend (who also played Mr. Wickham in the 2005 Pride and Prejudice), and written by Julian Fellowes (Downtown Abbey), this is a touching, sweet romance.
Victoria (2016--) I love this ongoing show! Jenna Coleman and Tom Hughes are wonderful as Victoria and Albert, and in Seasons One and Two, the fantastic Rufus Sewell plays Lord Melbourne with devastating charm and pathos.
North & South (2004) Richard Armitage as John Thornton. (Okay, I enjoy the whole production and cast, but, really: Richard Armitage as John Thornton.) Swoon.
Pride and Prejudice (1995) One of my all-time favorites, and probably the one I’ve seen the most times, even though it’s around six hours long. Starring Colin Firth and Jennifer Ehle as Darcy and Lizzy, this is a near-faultless production.
Like Colin Firth? Join in Firth February on my blog, Twitter, or Facebook for the rest of the month! Or sign up for Reina’s newsletter to be the first to know about sales, specials, and social media fun.
Did I miss any of your favorites?
Love Comes Softly (2008) A touching Hallmark movie (Western) based on the Janette Oke novel. Dale Midkiff plays the widowed hero with strength and rugged calm.
Jane Eyre (2003): Though I’ve seen and liked most of the versions of the Charlotte Brontë novel, I especially like Toby Stephens (sigh—he plays a tortured hero so well) and Ruth Wilson in this adaptation.
Anne of Green Gables (1985 and 1987) Megan Follows is a treat as Anne. I also love Road to Avonlea, particularly Gus and Felicity’s romance.
Little Women (1994) So far, this is still my favorite version of the Louisa May Alcott book. And I love Jo and Prof. Bhaer (especially as played by Gabriel Byrne).
Emma (1996, 1996 TV, or 2009 TV) I know I’m an outlier among Jane Austen fans—I love Emma. And Knightly. I enjoyed each of these productions for various reasons, though I admit my favorite is the 2009 version with Romala Garai and Jonny Lee Miller.
Persuasion (1995 or 2007) Neither of these quite captures Persuasion (the novel) for me, but I like them both. Especially because of Ciarán Hinds and Rupert Penry-Jones, respectively.
Sense and Sensibility (1995 or 2008) Can you tell I’m a Jane Austen fan? I like both of these versions. I love Alan Rickman and Emma Thompson, but I also loved the 2008 version, both the way it was adapted and the cast.
The Young Victoria (2009) Starring Emily Blunt (pre-Mary Poppins) and Rupert Friend (who also played Mr. Wickham in the 2005 Pride and Prejudice), and written by Julian Fellowes (Downtown Abbey), this is a touching, sweet romance.
Victoria (2016--) I love this ongoing show! Jenna Coleman and Tom Hughes are wonderful as Victoria and Albert, and in Seasons One and Two, the fantastic Rufus Sewell plays Lord Melbourne with devastating charm and pathos.
North & South (2004) Richard Armitage as John Thornton. (Okay, I enjoy the whole production and cast, but, really: Richard Armitage as John Thornton.) Swoon.
Pride and Prejudice (1995) One of my all-time favorites, and probably the one I’ve seen the most times, even though it’s around six hours long. Starring Colin Firth and Jennifer Ehle as Darcy and Lizzy, this is a near-faultless production.
Like Colin Firth? Join in Firth February on my blog, Twitter, or Facebook for the rest of the month! Or sign up for Reina’s newsletter to be the first to know about sales, specials, and social media fun.
Did I miss any of your favorites?
Most Truly
December 15, 2013
Historical ~ Sweet Romance ~ Regency
Novella
From the author of the Amazon Regency Romance bestseller A Gentleman’s Daughter: Her Choice, comes Most Truly, a light, sweet jaunt into the world of Pride and Prejudice.
Colonel James Fitzwilliam is home. The war has left him weary, battle-scarred—and a free man of fortune ready to find a wife. He travels to Pemberley, his second home. There he meets Kitty Bennet. Her unexpected charms soon have him questioning his familial duty and his expectations. A fight looms on the horizon when his aunt—Lady Catherine de Bourgh—and his parents arrive with their own plans for his future.
Kitty Bennet has found happiness. At Pemberley, she has improved herself and formed true friendships with her sister Lizzy and Georgiana Darcy. Kitty is captivated by the gentlemanly Colonel Fitzwilliam. But she will not be silly over a redcoat again, and she will not risk her happiness—or his family’s displeasure—for his attentions. Colonel Fitzwilliam, Darcy, Lizzy, and Georgiana have their say, and Kitty learns a new lesson—love will find you at Pemberley.
Historical ~ Sweet Romance ~ Regency
Novella
From the author of the Amazon Regency Romance bestseller A Gentleman’s Daughter: Her Choice, comes Most Truly, a light, sweet jaunt into the world of Pride and Prejudice.
Colonel James Fitzwilliam is home. The war has left him weary, battle-scarred—and a free man of fortune ready to find a wife. He travels to Pemberley, his second home. There he meets Kitty Bennet. Her unexpected charms soon have him questioning his familial duty and his expectations. A fight looms on the horizon when his aunt—Lady Catherine de Bourgh—and his parents arrive with their own plans for his future.
Kitty Bennet has found happiness. At Pemberley, she has improved herself and formed true friendships with her sister Lizzy and Georgiana Darcy. Kitty is captivated by the gentlemanly Colonel Fitzwilliam. But she will not be silly over a redcoat again, and she will not risk her happiness—or his family’s displeasure—for his attentions. Colonel Fitzwilliam, Darcy, Lizzy, and Georgiana have their say, and Kitty learns a new lesson—love will find you at Pemberley.
About Reina
Reina M. Williams writes sweet Austen-inspired and fairy tale romances. She loves period dramas, cooking, baking, and reading. She has a B.A. in History and did graduate study in English Literature. A California native, she lives in the San Francisco Bay Area with her two sons, who hope to someday take a research trip to England with their mom.
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I’ve had a great life.
I met my life-partner (now husband) Mark when I was twenty-three, and was finally able to marry him in 2008. We lived in Hawaii for a year, started our own business, and work most days in our sweats, making the commute from bedroom to office in about ten seconds.
I am a lucky bastard.
When I started writing at the tender age of ten, I had no idea where this whole author thing would go. I also had no idea I was gay, though looking back, there were signs. I hated sports, loved stuffed animals and had no problem mixing Barbies in with my Star Wars action figures. :P
As I have often mentioned, my writing career, which I thought would take off in my mid twenties with my first novel submission, quickly crashed back to earth when all ten publishers rejected me. I often wonder how things would have gone if I had stuck with it back then - if I had picked myself up and kept going. I was at WorldCon last year and went to a panel with an author who started about the same time - and now she has legions of fans (and in a possibly related role, sits on panels at World Con).
Is it possible to be immensely thrilled for someone and insanely jealous of them too?
Now back to the lucky bastard part.
In 2013, I decided to get back into writing after my husband kicked me in my writer's ass. I was griping about having lost momentum once again, and he turned to me and deadpanned “The only thing stopping you from writing is you.”
Holy bat signal, Robin!
He was absolutely right, and he was also telling that he was okay with me spending the time I needed to write, and to finally get myself published.
Now here we are, six years on, and I have almost thirty published works to my credit, including six novels. “Ithani,” which came out today, caps my first trilogy, and my second one wraps in October.
I’m writing what I always wanted to - diverse, exciting sci fi and fantasy - and although I’m not making bank (yet), I have a bunch of loyal readers who love what I do.
Did I mention that Mark and I will celebrate our twenty seventh anniversary in April?
I’m breathing. I’m writing. And I’m living with the man of my dreams.
I really am a lucky bastard.
I met my life-partner (now husband) Mark when I was twenty-three, and was finally able to marry him in 2008. We lived in Hawaii for a year, started our own business, and work most days in our sweats, making the commute from bedroom to office in about ten seconds.
I am a lucky bastard.
When I started writing at the tender age of ten, I had no idea where this whole author thing would go. I also had no idea I was gay, though looking back, there were signs. I hated sports, loved stuffed animals and had no problem mixing Barbies in with my Star Wars action figures. :P
As I have often mentioned, my writing career, which I thought would take off in my mid twenties with my first novel submission, quickly crashed back to earth when all ten publishers rejected me. I often wonder how things would have gone if I had stuck with it back then - if I had picked myself up and kept going. I was at WorldCon last year and went to a panel with an author who started about the same time - and now she has legions of fans (and in a possibly related role, sits on panels at World Con).
Is it possible to be immensely thrilled for someone and insanely jealous of them too?
Now back to the lucky bastard part.
In 2013, I decided to get back into writing after my husband kicked me in my writer's ass. I was griping about having lost momentum once again, and he turned to me and deadpanned “The only thing stopping you from writing is you.”
Holy bat signal, Robin!
He was absolutely right, and he was also telling that he was okay with me spending the time I needed to write, and to finally get myself published.
Now here we are, six years on, and I have almost thirty published works to my credit, including six novels. “Ithani,” which came out today, caps my first trilogy, and my second one wraps in October.
I’m writing what I always wanted to - diverse, exciting sci fi and fantasy - and although I’m not making bank (yet), I have a bunch of loyal readers who love what I do.
Did I mention that Mark and I will celebrate our twenty seventh anniversary in April?
I’m breathing. I’m writing. And I’m living with the man of my dreams.
I really am a lucky bastard.
***New Release***
Ithani
Time is running out.
After saving the world twice, Xander, Jameson and friends plunge headlong into a new crisis. The ithani—the aliens who broke the world—have reawakened from their hundred millennia-long slumber. When Xander and Jameson disappear in a flash, an already fractured world is thrown into chaos.
The ithani plans, laid a hundred thousand years before, are finally coming to pass, and they threaten all life on Erro. Venin and Alix go on a desperate search for their missing and find more than they bargained for. And Quince, Robin and Jessa discover a secret as old as the skythane themselves.
Will alien technology, unexpected help from the distant past, destiny and some good old-fashioned firepower be enough to defeat an enemy with the ability to split a world? The final battle of the epic science fiction adventure that began in Skythane will decide the fate of lander and skythane alike. And in the north, the ithani rise….
After saving the world twice, Xander, Jameson and friends plunge headlong into a new crisis. The ithani—the aliens who broke the world—have reawakened from their hundred millennia-long slumber. When Xander and Jameson disappear in a flash, an already fractured world is thrown into chaos.
The ithani plans, laid a hundred thousand years before, are finally coming to pass, and they threaten all life on Erro. Venin and Alix go on a desperate search for their missing and find more than they bargained for. And Quince, Robin and Jessa discover a secret as old as the skythane themselves.
Will alien technology, unexpected help from the distant past, destiny and some good old-fashioned firepower be enough to defeat an enemy with the ability to split a world? The final battle of the epic science fiction adventure that began in Skythane will decide the fate of lander and skythane alike. And in the north, the ithani rise….
About J. Scott
Scott was indoctrinated into fantasy and sci fi by his mother at the tender age of nine. He devoured her library, but as he grew up, he wondered where all the people like him were. He decided that if there weren’t gay characters in his favorite genres, he would remake them to his own ends. A Rainbow Award winning author, he runs Queer Sci Fi and QueeRomance Ink with his husband Mark, sites that celebrate fiction reflecting queer reality.
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"In an honest service there is thin commons, low wages, and hard labor; in this, plenty and satiety, pleasure and ease, liberty and power; and who would not balance creditor on this side, when all the hazard that is run for it, at worst, is only a sour look or two at choking. No, a merry life and a short one, shall be my motto." ~ The Words of Bartholomew "Black Bart" Roberts
Bartholomew Roberts was born in Wales and is considered the most successful pirate that lived during the Golden Age of Piracy which spanned from 1650 to 1722. He invoked terror and invincibility to all who crossed his path. Even his death shook the world. "The Blackest Day" marks his death, February 10, 1722 and the end of piracy's Golden Age.
Why did he or anyone for that matter become a pirate? The largest source of information is from court records although a review of personal memoirs and letters also provide valuable information.
During the early 17th century records indicate that almost three-quarters of a pirate ship crew was made up of seasoned seamen who previously served on merchant ships, warships, and even privateers.
According to historian David Cordingly, Caribbean crews were made up of 35% English, 25% colonial Americans, 20% from the West Indies (Jamaica and Barbados primarily), 10% Scottish and 8% Welsh. The remaining 2% were from Sweden, Holland, France and Spain.
But, back to Bartholomew Roberts. What motivated him to become a pirate?
Bartholomew Roberts was born in Wales and is considered the most successful pirate that lived during the Golden Age of Piracy which spanned from 1650 to 1722. He invoked terror and invincibility to all who crossed his path. Even his death shook the world. "The Blackest Day" marks his death, February 10, 1722 and the end of piracy's Golden Age.
Why did he or anyone for that matter become a pirate? The largest source of information is from court records although a review of personal memoirs and letters also provide valuable information.
During the early 17th century records indicate that almost three-quarters of a pirate ship crew was made up of seasoned seamen who previously served on merchant ships, warships, and even privateers.
According to historian David Cordingly, Caribbean crews were made up of 35% English, 25% colonial Americans, 20% from the West Indies (Jamaica and Barbados primarily), 10% Scottish and 8% Welsh. The remaining 2% were from Sweden, Holland, France and Spain.
But, back to Bartholomew Roberts. What motivated him to become a pirate?
The Princess, the merchant ship on which Roberts crewed was boarded by Welsh pirate Howell Davis. Captain Davis gave The Princess’ crew few options. Sign on or die by outright execution or abandoned on a desert island. Roberts signed the charter.
Some sailors made a ‘career move’ from privateering to pirate. A privateer was an individual with a government commission who owned or officered an armed ship authorized to capture enemy merchant ships. In other words, a sanctioned pirate. War ‘encouraged’ people to become privateers, but once peace returned the privateers found themselves unemployed. These people had few ways of making a living. Privateering/Pirating was the life they knew and the financial benefits were still attractive. As a pirate all they pilfered they shared among themselves. Although the consequences were dire, execution, for them the alternative was dying of starvation, becoming a beggar, or a thief on land.
Bartholomew Roberts went off to sail when he was thirteen-years-old. He was 27 when he signed on with Captain Davis. Six weeks after he joined the crew, Captain Davis was ambushed and killed. Bartholomew Roberts had impressed his pirate mates. They took a vote for the Davis’ replacement and named him the new captain.
Reluctant to be a pirate, Roberts embraced his new position. It is believed that Roberts felt if he must be a pirate, it was better "being a commander than a common man." His first order was to attack the town where Davis had been killed, to avenge his former captain.
Pirates plundered ships and villages for their gold, silver, and jewels, but that wasn’t all. They also took clothing to barter and to wear. They kept those items that suited them either to wear at sea or as finery to wear ashore. There are records of pirates going to the gallows wearing velvet jackets, taffeta breeches, silk shirts and stockings.
Some sailors made a ‘career move’ from privateering to pirate. A privateer was an individual with a government commission who owned or officered an armed ship authorized to capture enemy merchant ships. In other words, a sanctioned pirate. War ‘encouraged’ people to become privateers, but once peace returned the privateers found themselves unemployed. These people had few ways of making a living. Privateering/Pirating was the life they knew and the financial benefits were still attractive. As a pirate all they pilfered they shared among themselves. Although the consequences were dire, execution, for them the alternative was dying of starvation, becoming a beggar, or a thief on land.
Bartholomew Roberts went off to sail when he was thirteen-years-old. He was 27 when he signed on with Captain Davis. Six weeks after he joined the crew, Captain Davis was ambushed and killed. Bartholomew Roberts had impressed his pirate mates. They took a vote for the Davis’ replacement and named him the new captain.
Reluctant to be a pirate, Roberts embraced his new position. It is believed that Roberts felt if he must be a pirate, it was better "being a commander than a common man." His first order was to attack the town where Davis had been killed, to avenge his former captain.
Pirates plundered ships and villages for their gold, silver, and jewels, but that wasn’t all. They also took clothing to barter and to wear. They kept those items that suited them either to wear at sea or as finery to wear ashore. There are records of pirates going to the gallows wearing velvet jackets, taffeta breeches, silk shirts and stockings.
Pirate captains were no different. They often dressed as a successful merchant, giving him the appearance of a gentleman. Black Bart, as Bartholomew Roberts was now called, was the fashion leader of elegance among pirate captains. According to his crew he “dressed in a rich crimson damask waistcoat and breeches, a red feather in his hat, a gold chain round his neck, with a diamond cross hanging from it.”
Unfortunately, Black Bart’s fancy clothes did not make him invincible. He was killed in a broadside attack of grapeshot fired from the Royal Navy ship cannons tore out his throat. Obeying his standing order, his men threw his body overboard.
The greatest pirate of his generation, it’s estimated that over his three-year career, Black Bart took some 400 ships. He is not as famous as some of his contemporaries, Blackbeard, Stede Bonnet, or Charles Vane, but he was a much better pirate.
There were many reasons why Black Bart was successful, his personal charisma and leadership, his daring and ruthlessness and his ability to coordinate small fleets to maximum effect. Merchants feared him and his men to the extent that commerce came to a halt. Merchant vessels did not venture out of port when Black Bart and his men were about. He must have secretly been one of the Pirates of Britannia!
Who is your favorite pirate, Captain Blood, Captain Jack Sparrow, Long John Silver, Captain Hook (from the TV series) or anyone else?
Unfortunately, Black Bart’s fancy clothes did not make him invincible. He was killed in a broadside attack of grapeshot fired from the Royal Navy ship cannons tore out his throat. Obeying his standing order, his men threw his body overboard.
The greatest pirate of his generation, it’s estimated that over his three-year career, Black Bart took some 400 ships. He is not as famous as some of his contemporaries, Blackbeard, Stede Bonnet, or Charles Vane, but he was a much better pirate.
There were many reasons why Black Bart was successful, his personal charisma and leadership, his daring and ruthlessness and his ability to coordinate small fleets to maximum effect. Merchants feared him and his men to the extent that commerce came to a halt. Merchant vessels did not venture out of port when Black Bart and his men were about. He must have secretly been one of the Pirates of Britannia!
Who is your favorite pirate, Captain Blood, Captain Jack Sparrow, Long John Silver, Captain Hook (from the TV series) or anyone else?
Now Available!
Deception and family honor are at stake – so is her heart
Wesley Reynolds will do anything to avenge his family’s banishment from Dundhragon Castle even throw in with the notorious pirate, MacAlpin. His plan, ruin Lord Ewan’s trading network. He has a more devious plan for his father’s ‘best friend,’ the man who abandoned them at the eleventh hour. He’ll ruin the man’s most precious jewel, his daughter Darla. Wesley’s so close to ruining the trade network and succeeding he can almost taste it, but revenge is not nearly as sweet as Darla’s kisses.
Darla Maxwell, beloved by her parents has no prospects of marriage. Her father and Lord Ewan search to find her the right husband. Darla’s special gifts are frightening to many. She has visions that often come true. The murky image of a man haunts her, she’s sure it’s Lord Ewan’s soon-to-be son-in-law, but the vision morphs when she meets Wesley. The meaning couldn’t be any clearer to her, her destiny lies with Wesley.
When revelations surface indicating Wesley has been deceived and his revenge misplaced. Will he find the truth of what really happened to his family in time to stop the pirates? Will Darla ever forgive him? Will he ever forgive himself?
Amazon Free to Kindle Unlimited readers or on sale for $0.99
Darla Maxwell, beloved by her parents has no prospects of marriage. Her father and Lord Ewan search to find her the right husband. Darla’s special gifts are frightening to many. She has visions that often come true. The murky image of a man haunts her, she’s sure it’s Lord Ewan’s soon-to-be son-in-law, but the vision morphs when she meets Wesley. The meaning couldn’t be any clearer to her, her destiny lies with Wesley.
When revelations surface indicating Wesley has been deceived and his revenge misplaced. Will he find the truth of what really happened to his family in time to stop the pirates? Will Darla ever forgive him? Will he ever forgive himself?
Amazon Free to Kindle Unlimited readers or on sale for $0.99
About Ruth
I’m Ruth A. Casie and I write historical and contemporary romance. You might be wondering what I’m about. Sit back and let me tell you. I’m happiest when I’m telling stories either chatting in a group or writing them down. I love to put my hero and heroine in tough situations and dare them to work it out—together, always together. They haven’t disappointed. Oh, they complain but in the end their love and relationships are stronger than ever. Here are five things you probably don’t know about me. 1. I filled my passport up in one year. 2. I have three series. The Druid Knight stories are a historical time travel series. The Stelton Legacy is historical fantasy about the seven sons of a seventh son. Havenport Romances are stories set in a small coast Rhode Island town. I also write stories in the connected world the Pirates of Britannia. 3. I did a rap to “How Many Trucks Can a Tow Truck Tow If a Tow Truck Could Tow Trucks.” 4. When I cook I dance. 5. My Sudoku book is in the bathroom. I’m not saying anything else about that.
My stories feature strong women and the men who deserve them, endearing flaws and all. Their stories will keep you turning the pages until the end. I hope my stories become your favorite adventures. I’m a USA Today bestselling author.
Website: https://ruthacasie.com/
Email: ruth@ruthacasie.com
Personal Blog: http://www.ruthacasie.blogspot.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/RuthACasie
Facebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/RuthACasie/
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Ruth-A.-Casie/e/B005V0YEVU/
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/ruth-a-casie
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/pub/ruth-seitelman/6/6b7/964
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/ruthacasie/
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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ruthacasie/
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My stories feature strong women and the men who deserve them, endearing flaws and all. Their stories will keep you turning the pages until the end. I hope my stories become your favorite adventures. I’m a USA Today bestselling author.
Website: https://ruthacasie.com/
Email: ruth@ruthacasie.com
Personal Blog: http://www.ruthacasie.blogspot.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/RuthACasie
Facebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/RuthACasie/
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Ruth-A.-Casie/e/B005V0YEVU/
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/ruth-a-casie
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/pub/ruth-seitelman/6/6b7/964
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/ruthacasie/
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4792909.Ruth_A_Casie
YouTube: http://bit.ly/RuthACasieYouTube
Ruth’s Newsletter Signup: http://ruthacasie.com/contact.html#newsletter
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ruthacasie/
AllAuthor: http://ruthacasie.allauthor.com
LoveRomanceReads: www.loveromancereads.com/ruthacasie.html
Photo via Pixabay
Happy Valentine’s Day! Or maybe it’s your favorite holiday to hate?
When I was growing up, I loved all holidays, but as my teen years loomed and passed into my twenties, and I was perennially single, I began disliking Valentine’s Day. So, my sister and I, for many years, had an Anti-Valentine’s Day get together, and we’d eat pizza (we liked Hawaiian) or chow mein, fried rice, and sweet and sour chicken, and lots of chocolate, while we watched anti-romance movies. But, having always been a fan of happily-ever-afters, I never gave up my rom-coms and Hallmark movies. Now I do whatever I prefer, depending on if it’s a day I have my sons or not. If I have them, we might watch a rom-com or Disney classic (okay, not my fourteen year old!) and have a special dinner (this year’s is Chicken Parmesan) and dessert (Chocolate Brownie Cakes with vanilla ice cream).
Do you celebrate Valentine’s, or are you anti-Valentine’s? Either way, here are some movie suggestions for you!
Valentine’s Day Romantic Movies
10. The Lost Valentine (2011): Sweet Hallmark movie starring Jennifer Love Hewitt and Betty White.
9. Roman Holiday (1953): A luminous Audrey Hepburn stars with Gregory Peck in this classic about a princess who needs a day off.
8. Southside With You: Barack and Michelle Obama’s first date on Chicago’s South Side features in this beautiful, engaging film.
7. 10 Things I Hate About You (1999): Teen rom-com riff on Shakespeare’s Taming of the Shrew.
6. To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before (2018): Adorable, touching teen rom-com with one of my new favorite lines: “First things first, we need to have a contract.” [Netflix only]
5. An Affair to Remember (1957): Deborah Kerr and Cary Grant star as lovers who agree to meet at the Empire State Building—but will they?
4. Sleepless in Seattle (1993): Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan in a rom-com that takes inspiration from An Affair to Remember.
3. When Harry Met Sally (1989): Rob Reiner directs Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan in this quintessential friends-to-lovers film.
2. You’ve Got Mail (1998): Business rivals Hanks and Ryan fall in love via email, but clash in real life.
1. Notting Hill (1999): Bookstore owner (Hugh Grant) and famous actress (Julia Roberts) fall in love amid a quirky cast.
When I was growing up, I loved all holidays, but as my teen years loomed and passed into my twenties, and I was perennially single, I began disliking Valentine’s Day. So, my sister and I, for many years, had an Anti-Valentine’s Day get together, and we’d eat pizza (we liked Hawaiian) or chow mein, fried rice, and sweet and sour chicken, and lots of chocolate, while we watched anti-romance movies. But, having always been a fan of happily-ever-afters, I never gave up my rom-coms and Hallmark movies. Now I do whatever I prefer, depending on if it’s a day I have my sons or not. If I have them, we might watch a rom-com or Disney classic (okay, not my fourteen year old!) and have a special dinner (this year’s is Chicken Parmesan) and dessert (Chocolate Brownie Cakes with vanilla ice cream).
Do you celebrate Valentine’s, or are you anti-Valentine’s? Either way, here are some movie suggestions for you!
Valentine’s Day Romantic Movies
10. The Lost Valentine (2011): Sweet Hallmark movie starring Jennifer Love Hewitt and Betty White.
9. Roman Holiday (1953): A luminous Audrey Hepburn stars with Gregory Peck in this classic about a princess who needs a day off.
8. Southside With You: Barack and Michelle Obama’s first date on Chicago’s South Side features in this beautiful, engaging film.
7. 10 Things I Hate About You (1999): Teen rom-com riff on Shakespeare’s Taming of the Shrew.
6. To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before (2018): Adorable, touching teen rom-com with one of my new favorite lines: “First things first, we need to have a contract.” [Netflix only]
5. An Affair to Remember (1957): Deborah Kerr and Cary Grant star as lovers who agree to meet at the Empire State Building—but will they?
4. Sleepless in Seattle (1993): Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan in a rom-com that takes inspiration from An Affair to Remember.
3. When Harry Met Sally (1989): Rob Reiner directs Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan in this quintessential friends-to-lovers film.
2. You’ve Got Mail (1998): Business rivals Hanks and Ryan fall in love via email, but clash in real life.
1. Notting Hill (1999): Bookstore owner (Hugh Grant) and famous actress (Julia Roberts) fall in love amid a quirky cast.
Photo by JESHOOTS.com from Pexels
Anti-Valentine’s Day Movies
10. Laura (1944): There’s still some romance in this film noir classic.
9. Cape Fear (1962): A baddie (Robert Mitchum) terrorizes a lawyer and his family.
8. Blade Runner (1982): So I had crushes on Harrison Ford and Rutger Hauer.
7. Bubba Ho Tep (2002): What really happened to Elvis is answered in this campy flick starring Bruce Campbell and Ossie Davis.
6. Planet of the Apes (1968): Mostly because we like to yell along: “It’s a madhouse, a madhouse!”
5. Tango & Cash (1989): Buddy (Enemy) cop movie with Kurt Russell and Sylvester Stallone.
4. Jaws (1975): Scary big great white shark stalks a beach town.
3. Big Trouble In Little China (1986): More campy fun starring Kurt Russell.
2. Twin Peaks (1990-1991): Binge-watch this atmospheric, somewhat dark, quirky series.
1. The Godfather (1972): If you want watch You’ve Got Mail, you should see this. J
Have you seen any of these movies? What are your favorites?
10. Laura (1944): There’s still some romance in this film noir classic.
9. Cape Fear (1962): A baddie (Robert Mitchum) terrorizes a lawyer and his family.
8. Blade Runner (1982): So I had crushes on Harrison Ford and Rutger Hauer.
7. Bubba Ho Tep (2002): What really happened to Elvis is answered in this campy flick starring Bruce Campbell and Ossie Davis.
6. Planet of the Apes (1968): Mostly because we like to yell along: “It’s a madhouse, a madhouse!”
5. Tango & Cash (1989): Buddy (Enemy) cop movie with Kurt Russell and Sylvester Stallone.
4. Jaws (1975): Scary big great white shark stalks a beach town.
3. Big Trouble In Little China (1986): More campy fun starring Kurt Russell.
2. Twin Peaks (1990-1991): Binge-watch this atmospheric, somewhat dark, quirky series.
1. The Godfather (1972): If you want watch You’ve Got Mail, you should see this. J
Have you seen any of these movies? What are your favorites?
Always
San Francisco Brides, Book One
The last place Vincente DeGrazia wants to be on Valentine’s Day is at a charity bachelor auction. But he participates to honor the memory of his mother, who died of heart disease when he was a teen. His grandpop, who took Vincente in after his parents’ deaths, pushes him onto the stage with the assurance that Vincente’s dream woman is out there. And when Vincente spots a woman in white—who wins the bid for him—he wonders if Grandpop is right.
Gina D’Angelo comes home to San Francisco with one goal—to save her family’s ailing business by uncovering the truth about the DeGrazias. But her plan goes up in flames when her attraction to Vincente burns out of control. After a night together, Gina and Vincente struggle to discover the truth about each other, and to solve the decades-long conflict between their families. As Vincente realizes he needs Gina in his life, Gina sees that Vincente isn’t the man she thought he was—and they’re ready to fight for their always, together.
The last place Vincente DeGrazia wants to be on Valentine’s Day is at a charity bachelor auction. But he participates to honor the memory of his mother, who died of heart disease when he was a teen. His grandpop, who took Vincente in after his parents’ deaths, pushes him onto the stage with the assurance that Vincente’s dream woman is out there. And when Vincente spots a woman in white—who wins the bid for him—he wonders if Grandpop is right.
Gina D’Angelo comes home to San Francisco with one goal—to save her family’s ailing business by uncovering the truth about the DeGrazias. But her plan goes up in flames when her attraction to Vincente burns out of control. After a night together, Gina and Vincente struggle to discover the truth about each other, and to solve the decades-long conflict between their families. As Vincente realizes he needs Gina in his life, Gina sees that Vincente isn’t the man she thought he was—and they’re ready to fight for their always, together.
About Celia
Celia Juliano learned to read at the age of two, beginning her lifetime love of books, especially those with a happily ever after. As a girl, she made up recipes and stories of fairies and finding love. Now she writes delicious, heartfelt romance where love triumphs. She lives in the San Francisco Bay Area and occasionally indulges her hobbies of sampling dark chocolate, planning vacations, and procrastinating.
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