#TheSlightestChance #Paul Letters #HFVBTBlogTours #Review

The Slightest Chance
by Paul Letters

Publication Date: June 7, 2019
Blacksmith Books
Paperback; 296 Pages

Genre: Historical Fiction/Military/WWII

 

 

In war, you can pretend to be someone you’re not. Yet, in war, people find out who you really are.

Hong Kong, 1941. Anglo-Australian civil servant Dominic Sotherly’s colonial sojourn in Hong Kong becomes complicated by his double life in both war and love. Enigmatic Englishwoman Gwen Harmison possesses secrets of her own – plus an unrelenting desire for liberty.

From gaiety at the Peninsula Hotel to persecution both inside and outside of internment, the story journeys from war-ravaged Hong Kong to war-weary China.

From real history, meet the Chinese admiral who led Hong Kong’s daring ‘Great Escape’ and the Japanese Christian soldier who risked his life for the enemy. And, uniquely during the occupation of Hong Kong, discover how one Englishwoman made history in her defiance of Imperial Japan.

Available on Amazon

About the Author

Paul Letters is a novelist, journalist, broadcaster and part-time teacher of history and politics. He moved from London to the jungled fringes of Hong Kong in 2001. His earlier World War II novel, A Chance Kill, topped the South China Morning Post book charts.

In addition to historical features, he writes opinion pieces and magazine articles. Paul also broadcasts on Radio Television Hong Kong. His ‘This Month in History’ segment can be found as a podcast. Paul and his son James also present the chart-topping history podcast for kids and adults, ‘Dad and Me Love History’.

His website, and his daily on-this-day-in-World-War-Two twitter feed, can be found at paulletters.com.

Coffee and Ink’s Review

My apologies for the lateness of this review!

I have mixed feelings about this book, but I do recommend it if you like a good, fast-paced World War II drama. It would have been an easier read for me in the beginning if the author hadn’t used ?! in dialogue or put the story’s theme and title in italics, in case the reader might miss it. I’m not comfortable with the ending, and I can’t say why without giving too much away. I loved Gwen and her determination to reveal Japan’s atrocities in China to the world. Her journey is harrowing, helped and hindered by the three men in her life. Once the author turns to Gwen’s point of view, the story really takes off, and the last days in China as the country falls to Japan is very well told. Excellent research and attention to detail, the story had me on the edge of my seat.

Blog Tour Schedule

Monday, October 21
Review at Passages to the Past

Tuesday, October 22
Excerpt at The Book Junkie Reads
Review at Al-Alhambra Book Reviews

Wednesday, October 23
Feature at Maiden of the Pages

Saturday, October 26
Interview at Passages to the Past

Tuesday, October 29
Review at Locks, Hooks and Books

Thursday, October 31
Review at Coffee and Ink

Giveaway

During the Blog Tour, we are giving away a paperback copy of The Slightest Chance by Paul Letters! To enter, please use the Gleam form below.

Giveaway Rules

– Giveaway ends at 11:59 pm EST on October 31st. You must be 18 or older to enter.
– Paperback giveaway is open to the US only.
– Only one entry per household.
– All giveaway entrants agree to be honest and not cheat the systems; any suspicion of fraud will be decided upon by blog/site owner and the sponsor, and entrants may be disqualified at our discretion.
– The winner has 48 hours to claim prize or a new winner is chosen.

The Slightest Chance

#ToTameaScandalousLady #LianaDelaRosa #HFVBTBlogTours

To Tame a Scandalous Lady
by Liana De la Rosa

Publication Date: October 21, 2019
Entangled Publishing/Amara
eBook; 400 Pages

Genre: Historical Fiction/Regency/Victorian

 

 

In the wake of a fire that decimates his racing stock, Christian Andrews, the Marquess of Amstead, struggles to keep his family’s stud farm from slipping into ruin and painstakingly rebuilds the program. When one of his prime stallions is injured, he notices his new assistant trainer has a special way with the horses. As talented as the trainer is, once he realizes he is a she…and a very beautiful, spirited she at that…he should sack her before scandal breaks. But it’s only weeks before the high stakes race he’s counting on to build back his fortune, and Flora should be by his side for the win.

Miserable under the weight of the ton’s expectations, headstrong Lady Flora Campbell laments her privileged life in London. Embracing her dream of working with racehorses, she disguises herself as a lad and slips away to learn as much as she can from England’s premiere expert, Christian Andrews, never thinking of the scandal she courts but the glory to be had.

Although she develops a tendre for the dashing marquess, she can never let on that she’s not only a woman, but the daughter of a duke…

“Sparkling, sensual, and oh-so-smart!” —Lenora Bell, USA Today bestselling author

Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Kobo

About the Author

Liana De la Rosa is a historical romance writer whose stories are set in the Georgian and Late Regency periods. As a longtime fan of the romance genre, Liana can remember sneaking Harlequins into her bedroom to read on the sly. After her second child was born, her husband challenged her to write her own book and she’s been writing ever since. Liana is a proud graduate of the University of Arizona and enjoys cheering on her alma mater in all things (BEAR DOWN!). When she’s not writing witty heroes, saucy heroines, and secondary characters screaming for their own stories, she’s a wannabe domestic goddess and fashionista who wrangles a rambunctious brood of small children with her patient husband in Arizona.

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest

Excerpt

Stars twinkled bright across the expanse of dark Suffolk sky, and Flora stumbled to a halt to simply admire the beauty on display above her. As a child in the Highlands, she used to love to stretch out on the banks of the nearby Loch Kilmorow with her father and siblings, and watch for shooting stars or mirrie dancers, delighting in the antics of the night sky. But as she grew older, she found she no longer had time for such fanciful diversions.
An odd sight in the barn snagged her attention. Light filtered from Bainrigh’s stall into the small outer yard, and her breath stuttered. Someone was in her mare’s stall. But why?
Flora prowled into the stables, yanking a whip off the wall as she passed the tack room, dragging the thick piece of leather behind her as she advanced down the walk toward Bainrigh’s stall. When she arrived outside the doorframe, she flicked her wrist, ready to strike any intruder intent on harming her friend.
As her eyes took in the sight before her, Flora’s hand grew slack until the whip slipped from her fingers altogether. Lord Amstead sat propped on a stool he’d nestled amongst the hay, Bainrigh’s black head hovering over his shoulder as she happily munched on slices of apples he cut from the fruit in his hand. They looked like old friends enjoying a peaceful moment together, and her heart lurched to see her temperamental mare so relaxed with the marquess.
“Your lass has been quite impatient for your arrival, and I have almost run out of apples.”
Flora shifted on her feet, suddenly feeling nervous. “I had not expected to find you here, my lord.”
“I’m sure you didn’t. But then, I’ve always had a weak spot for pretty ladies.”
She rolled her eyes when Bainrigh nuzzled his cheek.
“You’ve obviously found the way to her heart.” She tsked at her horse. “At the first sight of an apple or pear and she loses all her fierceness.”
“We all have our weaknesses,” he mumbled, patting Bainrigh on her neck. He considered Flora with a pucker between his brows. “Mine is relying too heavily on my instincts and not on logic.”
“Mine is speaking without forethought or care for the consequences.”
Lord Amstead pressed his lips together. “A flaw I find terribly surprising, considering how circumspect William was in all things.”
“Yes, well, being William took a great deal of effort”—Flora tugged on her waistcoat—“and I don’t just mean the disguise.”
“I’m sure not.” He studied her thoughtfully. “What do you hope to gain here?”
She ran her gloved hands along the top of the half door and avoided his gaze. “Knowledge. Experience. Amstead Gardens has a storied history, and yet you, my lord, have managed to make a name for yourself as a horseman amongst horsemen.” She swallowed. “I hope to own my own stud farm one day, and I was keen on learning from the very best.”
After a long pause, the marquess chuckled. “My. If you are trying to turn my head, you succeeded.”
Flora scoffed. “I’m sure you require no flattery, my lord.”

Blog Tour Schedule

Monday, October 21
Review at The Romance Dish

Tuesday, October 22
Review at Historical Romance Lover

Wednesday, October 23
Review at Rose is Reading

Thursday, October 24
Excerpt at Historical Fiction with Spirit

Friday, October 25
Review at Gwendalyn’s Books

Monday, October 28
Review at The Book Junkie Reads

Wednesday, October 30
Excerpt at Coffee and Ink

Friday, November 1
Review at Chicks, Rogues, and Scandals

Monday, November 4
Interview at Passages to the Past

Thursday, November 7
Review at Nursebookie
Feature at The Lit Bitch

Giveaway

During the Blog Tour, we are giving away a $10 Amazon Gift Card! To enter, please use the Gleam form below.

Giveaway Rules

– Giveaway ends at 11:59 pm EST on November 7th. You must be 18 or older to enter.
– Paperback giveaway is open to the US only.
– Only one entry per household.
– All giveaway entrants agree to be honest and not cheat the systems; any suspicion of fraud will be decided upon by blog/site owner and the sponsor, and entrants may be disqualified at our discretion.
– The winner has 48 hours to claim prize or a new winner is chosen.

To Tame a Scandalous Lady

#TheHighlandersChristmasBride #VanessaKelly #HFVBTBlogTours #Review

The Highlander’s Christmas Bride
by Vanessa Kelly

Publication Date: October 29, 2019
Zebra Books
eBook & Paperback; 432 Pages

Series: Clan Kendrick, Book #2
Genre: Historical Romance/Scottish

 

 

In bestselling author Vanessa Kelly’s irresistible Clan Kendrick series, Christmas in the Highlands means family, celebration—and for one brother, the beginning of a passionate adventure . . .

Being thrown over by the man she expected to marry was humiliating enough. Now that Donella Haddon, grandniece of the Earl of Riddick, has also proven a failure as a nun, she has no choice but to return to her family’s estate. The brawny Highlander sent to escort her is brash, handsome, and the only thing standing between Donella and a gang of would-be kidnappers. But the scandal in her past can’t be so easily outrun . . .

Wealthy widower Logan Kendrick was expecting to meet a plain, pious spinster—not a gorgeous, sharp-tongued lass who can hold her own in any ambush. Though she’s known as the Flower of Clan Graham, Donella is no shrinking violet. In fact, she might be the perfect woman to bring happiness back to his lonely little son’s life, just in time for Christmas. But first he must protect her from ugly gossip and a mysterious threat—and convince her that their wild, unexpected desire is heaven sent.

Amazon | Barnes and Noble | IndieBound

About the Author

Vanessa Kelly is a USA Today Bestselling, award-winning author who was named by Booklist, the review journal of the American Library Association, as one of the “New Stars of Historical Romance.” Her Regency-set historical romances have been nominated in a number of contests, and she has won multiple awards, including the prestigious Maggie Medallion for Best Historical Romance. Her books have been published in nine languages.

Vanessa’s latest book, The Highlander Who Protected Me, was a USA Today, Barnes & Noble, and BookScan bestseller. Her Renegade Royals Series was a national bestseller, as was The Improper Princesses Series. My Fair Princess was named a Goodreads Romance of the Month and is a USA Today and BookScan bestseller. The Highlander’s Princess Bride, book 3 in the series, was a Barnes and Noble top 50 bestseller.

When she’s not dreaming of plots for her next Regency novel, Vanessa is writing USA Today Bestselling books with her husband, under the pen name of V.K. Sykes.

You can find Vanessa at vanessakellyauthor.com or at vksykes.com. For all of Vanessa’s latest news and contests–and to receive a free story–please sign up for her newsletter on her website.

Clan Kendrick Facebook Group | Facebook Author Page | Pinterest | Twitter | Goodreads

Coffee and Ink’s Review 

You have to love a heroine who is a failed nun in a Scottish nunnery who simply cannot follow the rules. With a sketchy past. And an irritable temperament. Donella Haddon wants to play by the rules, she wants to be safe from her family and her past, but the universe appears aligned against her.

Hoping to get into Donella’s father’s good graces, Logan Kendrick has offered to escort his wayward daughter back to Perth. He is ambitious and has secrets and worries of his own.

However, it’s 1819 and traveling without a chaperone is a good way to lose one’s reputation. And one’s heart.

This is well-written-page turner of a historical romance, with plenty of entanglements in societal and familial expectations, character angst and plot twists. I loved both characters, and though in a romance you know the characters will end up together in the end, the journey to get there was very entertaining. Recommended.

Blog Tour Schedule

Tuesday, October 29
Review at Coffee and Ink

Wednesday, October 30
Feature at A Book Geek
Review at So Many Books, So Little Time

Thursday, October 31
Review at Amy’s Booket List

Friday, November 1
Review at Gwendalyn’s Books
Excerpt at Donna’s Book Blog
Review at View from the Birdhouse

Saturday, November 2
Review at Fictitiouswonderland

Monday, November 4
Review at Nursebookie
Review at A Bookish Affair

Tuesday, November 5
Review at A Chick Who Reads
Review at Historical Fiction with Spirit

Wednesday, November 6
Review at Bookish Rantings
Interview at Jathan & Heather

Thursday, November 7
Review at Unabridged Chick
Guest Post at Myths, Legends, Books & Coffee Pots

Friday, November 8
Excerpt at Maiden of the Pages
Review at Chicks, Rogues, and Scandals

Monday, November 11
Review at Jessica Belmont
Review at Stephanie’s Novel Fiction
Guest Post at What Is That Book About

Tuesday, November 12
Excerpt at The Lit Bitch
Review at Locks, Hooks and Books

Giveaway

During the Blog Tour, we are giving away signed copies of THE HIGHLANDER’S PRINCESS BRIDE and THE HIGHLANDER WHO PROTECTED ME + a $20 Amazon gift card! To enter, please use the Gleam form below.

Giveaway Rules

– Giveaway ends at 11:59 pm EST on November 12th. You must be 18 or older to enter.
– Paperback giveaway is open internationally.
– Only one entry per household.
– All giveaway entrants agree to be honest and not cheat the systems; any suspicion of fraud will be decided upon by blog/site owner and the sponsor, and entrants may be disqualified at our discretion.
– The winner has 48 hours to claim prize or a new winner is chosen.

The Highlander’s Christmas Bride

#StevePhysiocTour #HFVBTBlogTours #Review

The Walls of Lucca
by Steve Physioc

Publication Date: March 26, 2018
eBook & Paperback; 509 Pages

Genre: Historical Fiction

 

 

Winner of the 2019 Reader Views Historical Fiction Award
Winner of the 2019 Tyler R. Tichelaar Award for Best Historical Fiction

When Franco, a weary Italian soldier who’s seen some of the worst of World War I, stumbles onto the Martellino vineyard, he’s looking for work — not love. But he finds that and much more with Isabella, the feisty young woman who works there.

Franco pours himself into the vineyard, trying to create a wine that will save it from financial ruin and rescue him from his dark memories of war. But it’s not easy when Mussolini’s evil shadow continues to loom over all of Italy. It’s even harder when Susanna, the vineyard’s matriarch, invites that shadow to the vineyard with her involvement in Fascist politics — and one very sinister political operative.

Influenced by the teachings of A Course In Miracles, The Walls of Lucca is historical fiction that shows readers the power of love and forgiveness in the face of evil. Compelling, colorful characters populate an authentic, inspiring story of friendship, faith, love and loss in a tumultuous time in European history.

Amazon | Barnes and Noble | IndieBound

Praise for The Walls of Lucca

“An absorbing, well-researched saga.” — Kirkus Reviews

“The Walls of Lucca is a tender, suspenseful and touching story sure to please fans of romance, political stories, and historical novels.” — BlueInk Review

“Author Steve Physioc has really managed to find the perfect balance of romance and real life.” – Readers’ Favorite

Above the Walls
by Steve Physioc

Publication Date: February 1, 2019
eBook & Paperback; 484 Pages

Genre: Historical Fiction

 

 

For eight years, the Fascist politician Alfredo Obizzi has kept quiet about his affair with Susanna Martellino, the matriarch of the Martellino vineyard. Now in 1938 Italy, Obizzi uses his growing political power to seek revenge on his past enemies, and Susanna and the vineyard’s spiritual sage, Isabella, are at the top of his list. Will faith and forgiveness be enough to lead the vineyard and its inhabitants through the bloodshed and heartbreak of World War II and Obizzi’s vengeance?

Meanwhile, the vineyard’s next generation, DeAngelo and Lily, have been best friends since they were born. But now — is it more? The star-crossed lovers must push through war, distance and outside forces to find out.

Praise for Above the Walls

“Once again, Physioc brings wartime Italy to vibrant life…Convincing historical fiction with a spiritual slant.” – Kirkus Reviews

“It was a delight to step back into the Martellino vineyard and to author Steve Physioc’s unique blend of romantic drama and harrowingly austere pre-war conditions.” – Readers Favorite

“To write I am astounded by Above the Walls is an understatement; this captivating book captured me and held me prisoner until the very end.” – Red Headed Book Lover blog

Amazon | IndieBound

About the Author

As an Emmy-winning radio and TV broadcaster for football, baseball and basketball, Steve Physioc has been telling stories for 40 years. After a trip to Italy with his wife, Stace, he was inspired to tell a different kind of story — his novels, The Walls of Lucca and Above the Walls. He and Stace live in Kansas City and love to visit and spend time with their children, Ryan and Kevin, and three grandchildren.

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | Instagram | Goodreads | BookBub

Coffee and Ink’s Review

This is a poignant and potent novel written in varying perspectives from landowner to land worker in 1920s Italy during the rise of Mussolini and fascism. The story takes us from the trenches of World War I to the vineyards of Tuscany where Socialism and Fascism strive to get a hold in the countryside. Meanwhile, the focus is on the grapes and the olives, the hard labor it takes to make a good bottle of wine excellent, and this keeps the characters together despite their differences—the love for what they are creating.

Like the grape vines and olive groves they tend, the families are still at the mercy of the weather, the trauma of the past and the uncertain future. Well written and well researched, the plot is riveting. If you have a love of Tuscany, I highly recommend this novel, but I also highly recommend the novel to all lovers of historical fiction. I’m very much looking forward to reading the sequel :).

Blog Tour Schedule

Sunday, October 6
Review at Locks, Hooks and Books (The Walls of Lucca)

Tuesday, October 8
Excerpt at The Book Junkie Reads

Thursday, October 10
Review at The Book Reader

Friday, October 11
Feature at Maiden of the Pages

Sunday, October 13
Review at Locks, Hooks and Books (Above the Walls)

Tuesday, October 15
Interview at Passages to the Past

Thursday, October 17
Review at Coffee and Ink

Saturday, October 19
Review at Just Another Reader (The Walls of Lucca)

Monday, October 21
Feature at CelticLady’s Reviews

Wednesday, October 23
Excerpt at Myths, Legends, Books & Coffee Pots

Friday, October 25
Review at Just Another Reader (Above the Walls)
Review at WTF Are You Reading?

Giveaway

During the Blog Tour, we are giving away a paperback copy of The Walls of Lucca and Above the Walls! To enter, please use the Gleam form below.

Giveaway Rules

– Giveaway ends at 11:59 pm EST on October 25th. You must be 18 or older to enter.
– Paperback giveaway is open to the US only.
– Only one entry per household.
– All giveaway entrants agree to be honest and not cheat the systems; any suspicion of fraud will be decided upon by blog/site owner and the sponsor, and entrants may be disqualified at our discretion.
– The winner has 48 hours to claim prize or a new winner is chosen.

Steve Physioc

#MadaminSilk #GiniGrossenbacher #HFVBTBlogTours #Review

Madam in Silk
by Gini Grossenbacher

Publication Date: July 15, 2019
JGKS Press
eBook & Paperback; 476 Pages

Series: The American Madams, Book 2
Genre: Historical Fiction

 

 

San Francisco,1849. Despite her objections, twenty-year-old Ah Toy and her servant Chen voyage from China to San Francisco with her husband who dies on board ship. With little cash and bound feet, how is she to find employment in the Gold Rush town? Since she is the only Chinese woman there, she opens a “Lookee Shop,” catering to miners who pay in gold dust to see her exotic beauty. As her notoriety grows, so does her attraction to the devoted policeman, John Clark. Yet should she put her faith in one man? Will their love survive despite her frightening encounter with Sydney Ducks, threats from rival madam Li Fan, and a tempting offer from Henry Conrad who promises her wealth and security? Armed with her mystical beliefs of the inner dragon and Goddess Mazu, Ah Toy faces much more than the journey from the ancient ways in China to the new world in America. In fact, she must find the true source of courage in a life or death struggle for her own fate, justice, and dignity. Based on page-turning accounts about the life of Ah Toy, one of San Francisco’s most legendary madams.

“Readers were effusive in their praise of Gini Grossenbacher’s dynamic debut novel Madam of My Heart, based on the life of the infamous brothel owner Belle Cora. This, the prequel to her American Madams Series, is inspired by the life of a beautiful young Chinese woman of high birth brought to California against her will. She was able–and willing–to do whatever it took to find security and fortune in Gold Rush San Francisco. Madam in Silk is this year’s exciting addition to historical fiction.” -Cheryl Anne Stapp, Author of Disaster & Triumph: Sacramento Women, Gold Rush Through the Civil War

Amazon | Barnes and Noble | IndieBound

Coffee and Ink’s Review

Gentle Ah Toy has survived so much in her short life, from the binding of her feet in childhood, her abusive husband, the deaths of her girl babies, and arriving in San Francisco with no one but her loyal servant, Chen.

I was unable to put down the story of her survival in San Francisco, a riveting account of early California and the Gold Rush, and the first Chinese people to arrive in that chaotic time. Vigilante groups opposed to the immigration of Chinese, heap violence upon them. Ah Toy’s husband’s family send thugs to bring her back to China, but she loves her independence too much to go back to that kind of life, though her Lookee Parlor is not how she imagines her life, either. She is plucky and courageous and though it means exploiting others by becoming a madam, she still offers her workers a better life than most. I loved her independence-driven mindset, her dragon, even when love found her and offered her ease and comfort away from the harrowing streets of the city.

The prose is infused with the taste and scents of her homeland, Chen’s cooking and encouraging friendship, her gentle spirit balanced with the spirit of her inner dragon who knows the men around her underestimate her (except for Chen). I loved reading the ups and downs of her life, the harsh reality of where she might end up if she fails to make it on her own. I highly recommend this book.

About the Author

California author Gini Grossenbacher was a successful high school English teacher until she abandoned grades and term papers, choosing to write historical novels instead. Now she leads small writing groups and coaches other writers. She loves researching the history behind her novels, and enjoys traveling to the setting where they take place. Her hobbies include needlepoint, nature walks, and Scrabble. She lives in the Sacramento Valley where she grew up, east of San Francisco.

For more information, please visit Gini’s website. You can also find her on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Goodreads.

Blog Tour Schedule

Monday, September 23
Review at Gwendalyn’s Books

Wednesday, September 25
Excerpt at Chicks, Rogues and Scandals

Friday, September 27
Review at Reading is My Remedy
Feature at CelticLady’s Reviews

Monday, September 30
Review at WTF Are You Reading?

Tuesday, October 1
Review at Books In Their Natural Habitat

Thursday, October 3
Excerpt at What Is That Book About

Friday, October 4
Interview at Passages to the Past

Monday, October 7
Review at Passages to the Past

Thursday, October 10
Review at @jypsylynn
Review at my.boys.mom

Friday, October 11
Review at Broken Teepee
Review at Coffee and Ink

Giveaway

During the Blog Tour, we are giving away a paperback copy of Madam in Silk! To enter, please use the Gleam form below.

Giveaway Rules

– Giveaway ends at 11:59 pm EST on October 11th. You must be 18 or older to enter.
– Giveaway is open internationally.
– Only one entry per household.
– All giveaway entrants agree to be honest and not cheat the systems; any suspicion of fraud will be decided upon by blog/site owner and the sponsor, and entrants may be disqualified at our discretion.
– The winner has 48 hours to claim prize or a new winner is chosen.

Madam in Silk

#ALadyNeverTells #LynnWinchester #HFVBTBlogTours #Review

A Lady Never Tells
by Lynn Winchester

Publication Date: September 23, 2019
Entangled Publishing
eBook, 368 pages

Series: Women of Daring, Book One
Genre: Historical Romance/Regency

 

 

Richard Downing may be a viscount of impeccable character, but he’s bored beyond belief of dancing at balls, faking smiles, and making dull conversation. So when he stumbles upon a house maid with defiance in her striking blue eyes and a dagger hidden in her skirts…well, color him intrigued.

Raised with a rather…peculiar upbringing, Lady Victoria Daring is full of secrets and surprises. As part of His Majesty’s personal homeland spy network and as a master of disguises, Vic is charged with infiltrating high society to uncover the enemies hiding in plain sight.

But Richard is the first man to see through her disguises–and infiltrate deep into her heart. Too bad his family is at the top of her list of suspects…

Amazon | Barnes and Noble | iBooks | Kobo

 

About the Author

Lynn Winchester is the pseudonym of a hardworking California-born conservative, now living in the wilds of Northeast Pennsylvania. Lynn has been writing fiction since the 5th grade, and enjoys creating worlds, characters, and stories for her readers.

When Lynn isn’t writing she is running a successful editing business, reading whatever she can get her hands on, raising her four children, making sure her husband is happy, and binge-watching shows on Netflix.

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads | BookBub

Coffee and Ink’s Review

 

I adored this novel. I don’t read as much in the genre as I used to, but A Lady Never Tells is just how I love historical romance. An unconventional heroine— and she’s not struggling to run her own estates/saving her reputation, etc (and I’m not harping on the tropes, I’ve just read enough of them, lol), Victoria Daring is a member of a family of spies who can out-fence, out-run and out-think any man out there. Recruited by the Home Office in Regency London, she struggles to fit in with the ton even as she begins her investigations within their midst.

Lord Richard is bored with the same old thing, parties and gambling, horses and women, until an awkward encounter with a servant in a terrible wig. He cannot forget her blue eyes and when he encounters Lady Victoria, he has the answer to who she is but not really all of who she is. The more he finds out, the more she wants to run, but eventually she figures it all out with Richard’s help.

The characters are very well drawn, the situations with Regency society and the ton are well researched and believable and with a great plot and romance. I highly recommend this book.

Blog Tour Schedule

Tuesday, September 24
Review at WTF Are You Reading?

Wednesday, September 25
Feature at What Is That Book About

Friday, September 27
Review at A Chick Who Reads

Monday, September 30
Feature at The Lit Bitch

Wednesday, October 2
Review at Gwendalyn’s Books

Sunday, October 6
Review at Passages to the Past

Wednesday, October 9
Interview at Jorie Loves a Story
Review at Historical Fiction with Spirit

Thursday, October 10
Review at Coffee and Ink

Friday, October 11
Review at Spooky’s Maze Of Books

Giveaway

During the Blog Tour, we are giving away an eBook of A Lady Never Tells by Lynn Winchester! To enter, please use the Gleam form below.

Giveaway Rules

– Giveaway ends at 11:59 pm EST on October 11th. You must be 18 or older to enter.
– Giveaway is open to the US only.
– Only one entry per household.
– All giveaway entrants agree to be honest and not cheat the systems; any suspicion of fraud will be decided upon by blog/site owner and the sponsor, and entrants may be disqualified at our discretion.
– The winner has 48 hours to claim prize or a new winner is chosen.

A Lady Never Tells

 

#TheSecretLifeofMrsLondon #RebeccaRosenberg #HFVBTBlogTours #Review

The Secret Life of Mrs. London
by Rebecca Rosenberg

Publication Date: January 30, 2018
Lake Union Publishing
eBook & Paperback; 348 Pages

Genre: Historical Fiction

 

 

San Francisco, 1915. As America teeters on the brink of world war, Charmian and her husband, famed novelist Jack London, wrestle with genius and desire, politics and marital competitiveness. Charmian longs to be viewed as an equal partner who put her own career on hold to support her husband, but Jack doesn’t see it that way…until Charmian is pulled from the audience during a magic show by escape artist Harry Houdini, a man enmeshed in his own complicated marriage. Suddenly, charmed by the attention Houdini pays her and entranced by his sexual magnetism, Charmian’s eyes open to a world of possibilities that could be her escape.

As Charmian grapples with her urge to explore the forbidden, Jack’s increasingly reckless behavior threatens her dedication. Now torn between two of history’s most mysterious and charismatic figures, she must find the courage to forge her own path, even as she fears the loss of everything she holds dear.

Coffee and Ink’s Review

This novel details the life and times of Jack London’s wife Charmian, who struggles under the burden of taking care of (i.e. getting him to write) her famous husband and in the shadow of his big personality. His many nicknames for her “Mate-Woman” and “Lady-Boy” seem meant to keep her at a distance, but she knows him so well, he barely notices she is not another limb of his, some accessory hand and brain. “You’re my dictionary.”

Charmian is a woman of depth, heart, and intellect, matching his appetite for adventure in a time when women of the 19^th and early 20^th century rarely left the home. Charmian is one of the rare ones but she is also caught in the siren call of hearth and home with Jack. I must confess, though, it was her relationship with the Houdini’s that interested me the most.

Who was Jack London’s muse, wife/lover, and Girl Friday? Rebecca Rosenberg looks deeply into the question and gives the reader a more than satisfying answer. Her prose is vivid and immerses the reader in Charmian’s experience. I highly recommend this book J!

Amazon | Barnes and Noble | IndieBound

Praise for The Secret Life of Mrs. London

“An impressively original and exceptionally well-crafted novel by an author who is a master of character- and narrative-driven storytelling, Rebecca Rosenberg’s The Secret Life of Mrs. London is an inherently riveting and thoroughly reader-engaging story from beginning to end and feature[es] many an unexpected plot twist and turn.” —Midwest Book Review

“Interesting, and based on the actual lives of the participants…Learning more about Jack London was enjoyable, as well as seeing early feminist examples.” —Historical Novel Society

“…Rosenberg paints an immensely intriguing portrait of a marriage and tells it in an accomplished lyrical prose that captures each moment with poetic intensity.” —Prairies Book Review

“The Secret Life of Mrs. London is a riveting behind-the-scenes look at the marriage of Jack and Charmian London, both fascinating and complicated characters with rich inner lives that Rosenberg conveys in crisp yet poetic prose. This contemporary historical fiction raises questions that are still relevant today about what makes a good marriage, and whether creativity and stability are incompatible. A rich, resonant, deeply satisfying novel sure to delight and leave readers thinking long after they put it down.” —Malena Watrous, author of If You Follow Me and Sparked!, and director of the Stanford Continuing Studies Program in Novel Writing

“The Secret Life of Mrs. London is a heart-wrenching portrait of a marriage between two people who utterly depend on one another, but ultimately aren’t enough for each other. With skillful precision of language, Rosenberg weaves a narrative that defines the complexities of love, passion, and art. This is a perceptive, deeply moving novel by a great new talent about a couple who has gone unnoticed in historical fiction until now. Anyone who has ever loved another person will want to read this book.” —Victoria Kelly, author of Mrs. Houdini: A Novel

“One of Houdini’s best kept secrets was his affair with Charmian London in 1918. Now Rebecca Rosenberg tells the story using an elegant blend of fact and fiction, creating a Houdini book like no other. The Secret Life of Mrs. London is a true peek behind the curtain and a page-turner.” —John Cox, Wild about Harry

About the Author

Rebecca Rosenberg receiving the IPPY Gold Medal

A California native, Rebecca Rosenberg lives on a lavender farm with her family in Sonoma, the Valley of the Moon, where Jack London wrote from his Beauty Ranch. Rebecca is a long-time student of Jack London’s works and an avid fan of his daring wife, Charmian London. The Secret Life of Mrs. London is her debut novel.

Rebecca and her husband, Gary, own the largest lavender product company in America, selling to 4000 resorts, spas and gift stores. The Rosenbergs believe in giving back to the Sonoma Community, supporting many causes through financial donations and board positions, including Worth Our Weight, an educational culinary program for at-risk children, YWCA shelter for abused women, Luther Burbank Performing Arts Center to provide performances for children, Sonoma Food Bank, Sonoma Boys and Girls Club, and the Valley of the Moon Children’s Home.

For more information, please visit Rebecca’s website and blog. You can also find her on Facebook and Goodreads. Visit the Facebook page for The Secret Life of Mrs. London.

Blog Tour Schedule

Monday, September 2
Review at Gwendalyn’s Books

Tuesday, September 3
Review at Melissa Reads

Wednesday, September 4
Excerpt at The Book Junkie Reads

Thursday, September 5
Review at 100 Pages a Day

Sunday, September 8
Review at My Reading Chronicles
Review at Oh the Books She Will Read

Tuesday, September 10
Review at Diana_bibliophile

Thursday, September 12
Excerpt at I’m All About Books

Friday, September 13
Excerpt at Myths, Legends, Books & Coffee Pots

Tuesday, September 17
Review at Hooked on Books

Wednesday, September 18
Review at Chicks, Rogues, and Scandals

Friday, September 20
Review at Orange County Readers

Monday, September 23
Review at Jathan & Heather

Wednesday, September 25
Review at Red Headed Book Lady

Thursday, September 26
Review, Q&A, & Excerpt at Nursebookie

Friday, September 27
Review at Macsbooks

Monday, September 30
Review at A Chick Who Reads

Wednesday, October 2
Review at gatticus_finch

Friday, October 4
Review at Coffee and Ink
Interview at Jathan & Heather

Saturday, October 5
Review at Reading is My Remedy

Monday, October 7
Review at rebecca.is.reading

Wednesday, October 9
Review at This Biblio Life

Thursday, October 10
Review at Peaceful Pastime

Friday, October 11
Review at Hopewell’s Public Library of Life

Saturday, October 12
Review at WTF Are You Reading?

Monday, October 14
Review at CelticLady’s Reviews

Giveaway

During the Blog Tour, we are giving away 3 signed paperbacks + swag and 7 eBooks! To enter, please use the Gleam form below.

Giveaway Rules

– Giveaway ends at 11:59 pm EST on October 14th. You must be 18 or older to enter.
– Giveaway is open to the US only.
– Only one entry per household.
– All giveaway entrants agree to be honest and not cheat the systems; any suspicion of fraud will be decided upon by blog/site owner and the sponsor, and entrants may be disqualified at our discretion.
– The winner has 48 hours to claim prize or a new winner is chosen.

Mrs. London

 

#TheQueenofWarriors #ZenobiaNeil #HFVBTBlogTours

The Queen of Warriors
by Zenobia Neil

Publication Date: September 19, 2019
Hypatia Books
eBook & Paperback; 363 Pages

Series: Alexandra of Sparta, Book One
Genre: Historical Fantasy

 

 

Alexandra of Sparta vowed her sword and her heart to the goddess Artemis. And the goddess blessed her. But no warrior lives at peace, and soon, Alexandra loses her title, her troops, and all she holds dear, including the man who holds her heart.

Cursed by a Babylonian witch, she is forced to return to a city she once conquered to make amends, but is captured by the powerful Persian rebel, Artaxerxes. As his prisoner, she awaits judgment for her crimes. But Artaxerxes is not what he seems. With death approaching, Alexandra must face her violent past and discover the truth of her captor’s identity before it’s too late.

Available on Amazon

Excerpt from The Queen of Warriors

Late one night, Alexandra and Caiaphas sat alone drinking. Some of her Spartan commanders lay on their own couches, playing their favorite game “What’s Worse?” and recounting past battles. Most of her other officers had retired for the night.

            Mithra entered the room. She bowed before approaching Alexandra and addressed Caiaphas.

            “Is my queen’s general satisfied with the boys I have given him, or would he like something different?”

            Caiaphas grinned. “No, the boys you have provided have all been to my liking. You have a rare gift for divining what a man wants.”

            “Thank you, my queen’s general. And does my queen desire anything or anyone?”

            Having convinced herself any need she had was satiated when her arrow struck its mark or her sword sliced through flesh, Alexandra had grown used to spending her nights alone.

            “I have no need of anyone, Mithra.”

            The Babylonian girl’s finely shaped eyebrows rose as if in a challenge. Her lips parted as if she was about to speak, then she cast her eyes down, bowed, and left.

            “If that girl looked at me like that,” Caiaphas said, “I would bed her.”

            “Truly?” She had never known him to look at a woman.

            “Yes,” he said, watching Mithra walk away. “She is not what I normally like, but if she shone those lynx eyes on me the way she does on you, I would try my luck. Little Queen, did I not teach you to be fearless?”

            Alexandra had learned that a good leader knows how to listen to wise counsel. She thought of the Babylonian girl as she fell asleep that night. A concubine trained in the art of love, Mithra was not like Alexandra’s previous husbands who had owned her by marriage. She was just a girl. Perhaps the touch of another, of one who had no power over her, might be welcome after all.

            The next time Mithra came to the dining hall, Alexandra invited her to join her. Mithra glanced nervously at Silent Shadow and Shibar but reclined on Alexandra’s couch. When she offered Mithra wine from her cup, a silver drinking horn shaped like a lion, the girl’s eyes lit up. Caiaphas grinned from across the room.

            The games were done and Isfahan was hers. The Great King’s advisor, pleased with how well they had done in Isfahan, had sent orders for the Queen of Warriors to go to Rhagae, which, like Isfahan, had refused to pay tribute.

            Alexandra had already met with her generals before dinner, and there were no pressing issues which needed her attention. Mithra had arranged for some acrobats to perform, but Alexandra did not need to see them. When she had eaten enough, she stood.

            “Mithra, accompany me.”

 

About the Author

Zenobia Neil was named after an ancient warrior queen who fought against the Romans. She writes about the mythic past and Greek and Roman gods having too much fun. She lives with her husband, two children, and dog in Los Angeles. The Queen of Warriors is her third book.

Visit her at ZenobiaNeil.com. You can also follow her on Facebook, Twitter, and Goodreads.

Blog Tour Schedule

Monday, September 16
Review at Broken Teepee

Tuesday, September 17
Guest Post by Reading the Past

Wednesday, September 18
Excerpt at Bookish Rantings

Thursday, September 19
Review at Gwendalyn’s Books

Friday, September 20
Review at Passages to the Past

Monday, September 23
Review at Historical Fiction with Spirit

Tuesday, September 24
Excerpt at What Is That Book About

Wednesday, September 25
Review at History from a Woman’s Perspective

Thursday, September 26
Review & Guest Post at A Bookish Affair

Monday, September 30
Review & Excerpt at Clarissa Reads it All

Tuesday, October 1
Feature at I’m All About Books
Excerpt at Myths, Legends, Books & Coffee Pots

Wednesday, October 2
Review at book frolic
Review at Al-Alhambra
Feature at CelticLady’s Reviews

Thursday, October 3
Excerpt at Coffee and Ink

Friday, October 4
Review at WTF Are You Reading?
Guest Post at Let Them Read Books

Giveaway

During the Blog Tour, we are giving away 2 eBooks and 2 paperbacks of Psyche Unbound and The Jinni’s Last Wish! To enter, please use the Gleam form below.

Giveaway Rules

– Giveaway ends at 11:59 pm EST on October 4th. You must be 18 or older to enter.
– Giveaway is open to the US only.
– Only one entry per household.
– All giveaway entrants agree to be honest and not cheat the systems; any suspicion of fraud will be decided upon by blog/site owner and the sponsor, and entrants may be disqualified at our discretion.
– The winner has 48 hours to claim prize or a new winner is chosen.

The Queen of Warriors

Late one night, Alexandra and Caiaphas sat alone drinking. Some of her Spartan commanders lay on their own couches, playing their favorite game “What’s Worse?” and recounting past battles. Most of her other officers had retired for the night.
Mithra entered the room. She bowed before approaching Alexandra and addressed Caiaphas.
“Is my queen’s general satisfied with the boys I have given him, or would he like something different?”
Caiaphas grinned. “No, the boys you have provided have all been to my liking. You have a rare gift for divining what a man wants.”
“Thank you, my queen’s general. And does my queen desire anything or anyone?”
Having convinced herself any need she had was satiated when her arrow struck its mark or her sword sliced through flesh, Alexandra had grown used to spending her nights alone.
“I have no need of anyone, Mithra.”
The Babylonian girl’s finely shaped eyebrows rose as if in a challenge. Her lips parted as if she was about to speak, then she cast her eyes down, bowed, and left.
“If that girl looked at me like that,” Caiaphas said, “I would bed her.”
“Truly?” She had never known him to look at a woman.
“Yes,” he said, watching Mithra walk away. “She is not what I normally like, but if she shone those lynx eyes on me the way she does on you, I would try my luck. Little Queen, did I not teach you to be fearless?”
Alexandra had learned that a good leader knows how to listen to wise counsel. She thought of the Babylonian girl as she fell asleep that night. A concubine trained in the art of love, Mithra was not like Alexandra’s previous husbands who had owned her by marriage. She was just a girl. Perhaps the touch of another, of one who had no power over her, might be welcome after all.
The next time Mithra came to the dining hall, Alexandra invited her to join her. Mithra glanced nervously at Silent Shadow and Shibar but reclined on Alexandra’s couch. When she offered Mithra wine from her cup, a silver drinking horn shaped like a lion, the girl’s eyes lit up. Caiaphas grinned from across the room.
The games were done and Isfahan was hers. The Great King’s advisor, pleased with how well they had done in Isfahan, had sent orders for the Queen of Warriors to go to Rhagae, which, like Isfahan, had refused to pay tribute.
Alexandra had already met with her generals before dinner, and there were no pressing issues which needed her attention. Mithra had arranged for some acrobats to perform, but Alexandra did not need to see them. When she had eaten enough, she stood.
“Mithra, accompany me.”