tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23730135198970969152024-03-13T10:06:54.744+00:00 Madwoman in the AtticI WRITE ABOUT BOOKS, WRITING AND WOMEN IN HISTORYLisa D, http://www.blogger.com/profile/17990194728330161897noreply@blogger.comBlogger630125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2373013519897096915.post-53799297706017420522024-02-25T17:51:00.009+00:002024-02-25T17:55:45.405+00:00Madwoman in the Attic #13 Elizabeth Vesey<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisjKWbJTTB_T98p7bQ0k0ahRI06NRANyfyvZySq5DvHfk4LuEzB49CsRu7s7MSlC6jawP4H9juLAtjDqhWd20HmfZPPkyK5WI5Q2CNYLSK2bSgynNn_Kk4GLI2gf1MqMs6c9D-SpyePZLxq579A3ua4fJkgy3xX6_q_QvYy1PNjwCD-ecUFU4F_rVsWTY7/s450/Elizabeth_Vesey.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="379" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisjKWbJTTB_T98p7bQ0k0ahRI06NRANyfyvZySq5DvHfk4LuEzB49CsRu7s7MSlC6jawP4H9juLAtjDqhWd20HmfZPPkyK5WI5Q2CNYLSK2bSgynNn_Kk4GLI2gf1MqMs6c9D-SpyePZLxq579A3ua4fJkgy3xX6_q_QvYy1PNjwCD-ecUFU4F_rVsWTY7/s320/Elizabeth_Vesey.jpg" width="270" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>Elizabeth Vesey was a well known member of The Bluestockings; whom I briefly mentioned in my piece about Elizabeth Griffith. You can read that piece <a href="https://lisareadsbooks.blogspot.com/2017/02/madwomen-in-attic-4-elizabeth-griffith.html">HERE</a></p><p>Born in Ossory (Kilkenny) in 1715, Elizabeth was the daughter of Thomas Vesey, the Bishop of Ossory and his wife Mary. She married William Hancock, the MP for Fore in Westmeath and after his death in the 1740s she married again to Agmondesham Vesey, a distant cousin who inherited wealth and land at Lucan in County Dublin. He was also an MP and the couple divided their time between London and Lucan. Agmondesham was continually unfaithful to his wife but she remained loyal nursing him through a number of bouts of illness as he suffered from epilepsy. </p><p>Elizabeth was surrounded by a loyal group of friends; firstly her sister in law Miss Hancock, who lived with Elizabeth as a companion throughout their lives and later she formed a salon of creative and intellectual women; Elizabeth Montagu, Elizabeth Griffith, Hester Chapone, Hester Lynch Piozzi, Elizabeth Carter, Hannah Moore and Frances Burney. She was also a supporter of the arts and friend to Edmund Burke, David Garrick, Samuel Johnson, Joshua Reynolds and Richard Brinsley Sheridan. Although Vesey did write she never published her work and is remebered instead as a gracious and charming host and support of the literary set who inspired the generations of women writers to come including Jane Austen and Mary Wollstonecraft. </p><p>With her husband's death Vesey was left in realtive poverty and relied on the assistance of relatives over her final years, she died in London in 1791.</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Lisa D, http://www.blogger.com/profile/17990194728330161897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2373013519897096915.post-79447716110075598982024-02-25T16:56:00.002+00:002024-02-25T16:56:16.517+00:00Last Chance In Paris<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB0HNVeer1_x8KU7-eE4UZ03YAB-ZVHy5d4dIpUpH5UTLEPJY79gPW59S6LtEGtAvACjcf8PWLLAiNcK1mwTuW3IRfqcEAqJchOQ7TchrkAZ3R9mVdvfMbabhBLWQjwHqTyTFul5fsFKlFO9wVdCQPeHPiGZ6EWBpCrOpVTDiiDKKBfZBaVgQh4pTv7i6B/s391/Last%20Chance%20in%20Paris.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="391" data-original-width="255" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB0HNVeer1_x8KU7-eE4UZ03YAB-ZVHy5d4dIpUpH5UTLEPJY79gPW59S6LtEGtAvACjcf8PWLLAiNcK1mwTuW3IRfqcEAqJchOQ7TchrkAZ3R9mVdvfMbabhBLWQjwHqTyTFul5fsFKlFO9wVdCQPeHPiGZ6EWBpCrOpVTDiiDKKBfZBaVgQh4pTv7i6B/s320/Last%20Chance%20in%20Paris.png" width="209" /></a></div> <p></p><p><br /></p><p>Lynda Marron's debut novel published by Eriu the Irish imprint of Bonnier Books is a heartwarming and moving examination of love, life and loss. Although there are multiple points of view the charaters at the heart of the story are Claire and Ronan, an Irish couple in a last ditch attempt to repair their marriage. The narrative weaves through their backstory and that of a number of other characters; a Hollywood director, an elderly Frenchwoman, a young Ukranian refugee, an American law student, as they visit the famous spots of Paris; Notre Dame, Pere Lachaise, The Louvre and cross each others paths over the weekend as each of their stories culminates in decisions and revelations. Marron is a fresh and talented new voice in Irish writing and one to watch, her work will appeal to fans of Camel Harrington and Rowan Coleman. </p><p><br /></p><p>Thank you to Eriu Books for a review copy. </p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Lisa D, http://www.blogger.com/profile/17990194728330161897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2373013519897096915.post-59309023643290550312023-11-19T00:42:00.001+00:002023-11-19T00:42:14.719+00:00A Class Inherited by Susie Murphy<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDWttvvjAZ3rjEe930LuLqKm0m2OWSq6VtQRoVKYne06D0ke4tJlhnThyphenhyphenFzo2aiT1qG_TndjfZ2dsZ-giUVA26yMFilhAreTwTE_8XXgmqLJA_wSB9i-kl_uBycfR6PXx5cRwEZgouQ_spBoNRuELSPqN_eYdGlz7V_6mBSjAKNVQOFb5ZXY_AKOhj-HhT/s2000/A%20Class%20Inherited%20cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="1249" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDWttvvjAZ3rjEe930LuLqKm0m2OWSq6VtQRoVKYne06D0ke4tJlhnThyphenhyphenFzo2aiT1qG_TndjfZ2dsZ-giUVA26yMFilhAreTwTE_8XXgmqLJA_wSB9i-kl_uBycfR6PXx5cRwEZgouQ_spBoNRuELSPqN_eYdGlz7V_6mBSjAKNVQOFb5ZXY_AKOhj-HhT/s320/A%20Class%20Inherited%20cover.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>I cannot believe that Susie Murphy has already reached book six in this
outstanding series, But yes here we are A Class Inherited is out in e-book and
paperback on Monday, get your copy <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0CKQ1FM2Y?geniuslink=true" target="_blank">HERE</a><o:p></o:p></p><p>I have loved this series from the start. I have so enjoyed following Bridget
and Cormac's story and the story of Emily who has grown into a young woman as
the years have passed. In this instalment having learned that he has been named
as Lord Bewley's heir, Cormac must once again travel across the sea. This time
however he is taking his family with him and starting a new life, but the
family face a number of dilemmas as they must leave behind loved ones, community,
and the life they had made for themselves in Boston. Emily faces tough
decisions about Rory and art school while Cormac must decide what to do with
his workshop and face never seeing his sister again. <o:p></o:p></p><p>Arrival in England does not go smoothly either as Cormac and Bridget face resistance
from some of the Bewley's staff who feel they shouldn't have inherited, due to Cormac’s
lowly origins. Bridget is told in no uncertain terms that she had her family
will never be accepted by the English upper class due to her and Cormac's
unconventional "marriage" and Emily realises that she will forever be
caught between one class and the other as she is courted by two vastly
different men. <o:p></o:p></p><p>
</p><p>Susie Murphy's writing and storytelling skill has once again kept me
spellbound, as I stayed up way past my bedtime, telling myself just one more
chapter. Romantic, compelling, and insightful. I cannot recommend this series
highly enough to fans of historial fiction, adventure and romance. <o:p></o:p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjumo_r6ltTEkzY-aia0T34WpNxoyOApJqWWWvesV4YJRHxHkyMRwL-dVtjZvJ2L9IkjQlbQBmZiYxdRwrPEi4d3CROfOil8FPcV8ok5Mxi_7wG9yAk4XH6JLS2KSrE8Js9FJKV0292opWqjsCzhEwJrwwGyp1Gtu6Nrb4fG_ogjqxsneU2GBp3FFD7yFwY/s1417/A%20Matter%20of%20Class%20series%20(2).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="920" data-original-width="1417" height="208" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjumo_r6ltTEkzY-aia0T34WpNxoyOApJqWWWvesV4YJRHxHkyMRwL-dVtjZvJ2L9IkjQlbQBmZiYxdRwrPEi4d3CROfOil8FPcV8ok5Mxi_7wG9yAk4XH6JLS2KSrE8Js9FJKV0292opWqjsCzhEwJrwwGyp1Gtu6Nrb4fG_ogjqxsneU2GBp3FFD7yFwY/s320/A%20Matter%20of%20Class%20series%20(2).jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Lisa D, http://www.blogger.com/profile/17990194728330161897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2373013519897096915.post-42009295124030270602023-11-01T00:34:00.000+00:002023-11-01T00:34:28.404+00:00The Runaway Heiress by Emma Orchard <p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8Z8UXvmFHdamhXfOqiKzdsnEg7OKE1MVppRIl0W3Z8QfEZYE1IfmPlkwuDFtwvHlsN9boJXmotl_VSKMXIlM38wsfHU34JWapKGEAsZ9CJDCJn5QTTpGs6y_GI_-zJZL7-x9yGI4ewOdxgGC26ZfZb2BWtBzNC2DoRk6tRPWt1vN4MznO_9B8Aiv4ijX-/s595/The%20Runaway%20Heiress.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="595" data-original-width="385" height="375" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8Z8UXvmFHdamhXfOqiKzdsnEg7OKE1MVppRIl0W3Z8QfEZYE1IfmPlkwuDFtwvHlsN9boJXmotl_VSKMXIlM38wsfHU34JWapKGEAsZ9CJDCJn5QTTpGs6y_GI_-zJZL7-x9yGI4ewOdxgGC26ZfZb2BWtBzNC2DoRk6tRPWt1vN4MznO_9B8Aiv4ijX-/w266-h375/The%20Runaway%20Heiress.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p></p><p class="MsoNormal">Emma Orchard’s second regency romance is an absolute treat. Our
heroine is Cassandra Hazeldon, an orphaned heiress under the guardianship of
her uncle. However, when her uncle concocts a cruel scheme to marry her off to one
of his ruthless friends, she runs away. Seeking refuge in a London townhouse that
she hopes is unoccupied other than by a couple of servants. She hides in a darkened
library but soon falls asleep only to wake up to Lord Irlam leaning over her,
determined to find out what she is doing in his home. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Once Cassandra explains her situation, Hal is determined to
help and with assistance from his sister and aunt, Cassandra is soon at the
centre of the Brighton social scene and growing closer to Lord Irlam and his
extended family. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Emma Orchard is clearly inspired by Georgette Heyer but her
writing style and the page turning pace of her stories are all her own. I
really enjoyed exploring this regency world and its cast of characters from
caustic aunts to cheeky young boys, dashing heroes to resourceful young
heroines and some wicked villains young and old. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Emma Orchard’s writing is like Jane Austen on steroids, and
I loved it. Published on November 2<sup>nd</sup> by Allison & Busby. Thanks
so much to Libby from Allison & Busby for a review copy.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p><br /><p></p>Lisa D, http://www.blogger.com/profile/17990194728330161897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2373013519897096915.post-22874969077270245152023-08-02T11:53:00.003+01:002023-08-02T11:53:53.373+01:00Heir to Thorn and Flame by Ben Alderson<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiNsWvNbshlWdzRr9YtBv4vsVjum3UMFbvySJjBSvBq8Uk9sy6yUQsHlK3eu5Na6U0sIhWD_YXPwNI-cRFYsQR3ysAC8YuGYdrVc3nto3esqWMeSzSfRd8pK_V7zl5w6cuwUqleAjpCiSRBO47NwWiN3MVQEtldQ-AvnSK7mXRQYPX_qAzze45kXLc6TE8/s2398/Heir-to-Thorn-and-Flame-Kindle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2398" data-original-width="1500" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiNsWvNbshlWdzRr9YtBv4vsVjum3UMFbvySJjBSvBq8Uk9sy6yUQsHlK3eu5Na6U0sIhWD_YXPwNI-cRFYsQR3ysAC8YuGYdrVc3nto3esqWMeSzSfRd8pK_V7zl5w6cuwUqleAjpCiSRBO47NwWiN3MVQEtldQ-AvnSK7mXRQYPX_qAzze45kXLc6TE8/s320/Heir-to-Thorn-and-Flame-Kindle.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>Ben Alderson's dark fantasy series opens with this heart pounding book, as Max a lowly servant hides in one of his favourite places; the library, but is discovered by Prince Julian. Julian had always treated Max cruelly but on this occasion having chased him into the forest, Julian fights back. Unknown to him as he reaches for a branch on the forest floor, he is in the exact spot where the Heart Oak once stood, the tree from which mages took their wands, a tree long since cut down. However Max strikes Julian down not knowing his own strength. With the heir dead he can think only of running until the King discovers what he has done and forces him to pose as his heir, renaming him Julian and holding his parents hostage. </p><p>Max feels utterly trapped forced to carry out the wishes of a man he hates, he must come to terms with his newly discovered powers and the reality that he is a mage. Forced into marriage by King Gathrax, he fears he can trust no-one, not even the spy Simion brother of his childhood friend. </p><p>With dragons, magic and passion this is a fantasy that moves at a whip crack pace with twists and turns galore and a hero you will root for. Perfect for fans of Sarah J Maas, Freya Marske and Grace Draven. </p><p>Thank you to Second Sky Books for the review copy. Ben Alderson is writer to watch. </p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhseHjSrPeBdQDJ0Oi1PtbZ3_UdiIe5yQPsUffSgyXT_cShiXwvtXDw6tgabCPCuAD9gF10dfX38ivQAM3p4fWY3MT4BmKQqENkxtAOynm2-hG4OnooFt6_Cx-TwXZIRSaKB63QfAuZlNOdq-hZ-ocBVKJgFXDnUwKjAxQnQuc4lRTeiGe4R_I2oSkPDeYN/s1600/Heir%20to%20Thorn%20and%20Flame%20Ben%20Alderson%20books-on-tour.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="271" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhseHjSrPeBdQDJ0Oi1PtbZ3_UdiIe5yQPsUffSgyXT_cShiXwvtXDw6tgabCPCuAD9gF10dfX38ivQAM3p4fWY3MT4BmKQqENkxtAOynm2-hG4OnooFt6_Cx-TwXZIRSaKB63QfAuZlNOdq-hZ-ocBVKJgFXDnUwKjAxQnQuc4lRTeiGe4R_I2oSkPDeYN/w368-h271/Heir%20to%20Thorn%20and%20Flame%20Ben%20Alderson%20books-on-tour.png" width="368" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNjTa_uRN8OEnmA2THwIR0qqvUKM-Ad7J4ZWQw9dfKwA-K8H7rXRckzMLVmCItUP47_mRyWkhrHi7iymemyoJoiP81g8dIgoedHZp39Lom5Y15XglYFRhzULm0y44emQ4HZzwgVs745lD4ibhdhDqlVqBismcx5EjLOEco77IMtrO_Qr7PLQwpcpmDhERX/s450/Ben%20Alderson%20Author%20Pic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="450" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNjTa_uRN8OEnmA2THwIR0qqvUKM-Ad7J4ZWQw9dfKwA-K8H7rXRckzMLVmCItUP47_mRyWkhrHi7iymemyoJoiP81g8dIgoedHZp39Lom5Y15XglYFRhzULm0y44emQ4HZzwgVs745lD4ibhdhDqlVqBismcx5EjLOEco77IMtrO_Qr7PLQwpcpmDhERX/s320/Ben%20Alderson%20Author%20Pic.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p>Lisa D, http://www.blogger.com/profile/17990194728330161897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2373013519897096915.post-91653558770844980132023-07-16T18:12:00.010+01:002023-07-16T18:12:52.509+01:00<p> </p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkmQQzOtjA2UQgDKZ6S0G-UTwDlNiugXO3lzXsshp2YaKNQikAYsGj4lMmtUT6L4eFVDatnXn-CEFmigeRkV1muZvle1opo0fy4ZtSBUzgcwTcG-I1nu2bTuAZmx07fL8iJwOPV0fSFiNWoGrl3NMeFsWojv9SSbRHDYjVvzKUdByp24yuVTx3Er9ox-19/s1024/Widow-Queen-final-674x1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="674" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkmQQzOtjA2UQgDKZ6S0G-UTwDlNiugXO3lzXsshp2YaKNQikAYsGj4lMmtUT6L4eFVDatnXn-CEFmigeRkV1muZvle1opo0fy4ZtSBUzgcwTcG-I1nu2bTuAZmx07fL8iJwOPV0fSFiNWoGrl3NMeFsWojv9SSbRHDYjVvzKUdByp24yuVTx3Er9ox-19/s320/Widow-Queen-final-674x1024.jpg" width="211" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #212121; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 15px;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #212121; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 15px;">Through the translation skills of Maya Zakrewska-Pim and an American publisher, the English-speaking world will finally be able to explore the powerful writing of one of Poland’s biggest selling authors: Elzbieta Cherezińska.</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #212121; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 15px;"> </span><a href="https://historicalnovelsociety.org/reviews/the-widow-queen-the-bold-1/" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; box-sizing: border-box; color: #b5af00; display: inline-block; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 17px; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; transition: all 0.1s ease-in 0s; vertical-align: baseline;"><em style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">The Widow Queen</em></a><span style="background-color: white; color: #212121; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 15px;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #212121; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 15px;">(Forge, 2021) is her first publication in English, and it explores the story of Świętosława, the 10th-century princess who became a powerful Scandinavian queen. Cherezińska has been fascinated with Świętosława for many years.</span></p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #212121; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 30px; margin: 0px 0px 25px; outline: none; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">“I encountered Świętosława for the first time in a collection of essays I read as a teenager about the women of the Piast dynasty. I was fifteen or sixteen years old, and all I could think of was that she had been my age <br />when she boarded the ship which took her away to Sweden. When, years later, my husband and I began our travels around Scandinavia, I found myself intrigued by the Viking culture, and I saw Świętosława in a new light. I felt as if I were seeing her in her natural habitat. Impressed by Scandinavia’s history, I wrote a tetralogy, set at the same time as <em style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">The Widow Queen</em>, in which I included a fictional scene depicting my heroes, Bjorn and Ragnar, meeting her and her sister Astrid. My next novel focused entirely on Świętosława’s brother Duke Bolesław… and then I thought: why be satisfied with this? El, are you afraid of making her the heroine of her own story?”</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #212121; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 30px; margin: 0px 0px 25px; outline: none; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">The fact that Cherezińska waited for so many years before tackling the great queen’s story meant that she was able to make use of recent scholarship on the period, so that the original idea expanded into a much bigger story. “A few books were published in the interim which increased my understanding of Świętosława and the men in her life, and consequently by the time I began to work on what has become <em style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">The Widow Queen</em>, the story grew far bigger than I had initially anticipated. My research consisted of looking at the history of Poland, Sweden, Denmark, Norway, England and Kievan Rus. The largest number of written sources (chronicles) describe English history, but we must remember that the ancient history of all these countries has more in common with legend than fact. No chronicler ever recorded Świętosława’s name. She is referred to as ‘Bolesław’s sister,’ ‘Mieszko’s daughter,’ ‘Sven’s wife,’ or ‘Cnut and Harald’s mother.’ I had to piece together her story from fragments of various chronicles, sources which told the stories of the men in her life.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #212121; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 30px; margin: 0px 0px 25px; outline: none; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">“I also used the chronicles to collect information about Eric, Olav, Sven and Cnut’s conquests in order to describe the wars they fought as well as the impact their leaving for such prolonged period of time had on Świętosława’s life. It was a fascinating adventure.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #212121; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 30px; margin: 0px 0px 25px; outline: none; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">“On top of that, I reached for Scandinavian sagas written between the 12<span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 11.25px; line-height: 0; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; position: relative; top: -0.5em; vertical-align: baseline;">th</span> and 14<span style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 11.25px; line-height: 0; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; position: relative; top: -0.5em; vertical-align: baseline;">th</span> centuries which detail the lives of kings and heroes, although I had to be careful when using these since the real and the fantastic are so closely entwined within them. Archaeological findings were a great help, too. I used these to help me recreate my heroes’ surroundings and homes, their clothes, households, items of everyday use, weapons and accessories. This enabled me to create a complete world filled with authentic detail – their world.”</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #212121; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 30px; margin: 0px 0px 25px; outline: none; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">For Cherezińska, recovering the names and the voices of women in medieval history is particularly important. The dedication of <em style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">The Widow Queen</em> reads:</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #212121; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 30px; margin: 0px 0px 25px; outline: none; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">To all the anonymous, forgotten princesses<br style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" />The nuns, wives, mothers and rulers, about whom history is silent<br style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" />The girls marked in biographies of dynasties with a sad ‘N.N.’</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #212121; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 30px; margin: 0px 0px 25px; outline: none; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Cherezińska has restored Świętosława’s name but without relinquishing the nickname given to her by the Scandinavians. “The original moniker attached to her name is Storråda, and it comes from an Icelandic saga about Olav Tryggvason. What is interesting is that the widow queen acquired it after she burned two of her suitors alive in a bath house. She wasn’t named Sigrid the Incendiary, Sigrid the Cruel, but Sigrid the Haughty. It provides context for her actions. Her decision wasn’t seen as a crime, but a battle for female dignity. In Viking culture (at the time, Świętosława was the late Swedish king Eric’s widow), courage, even bravado, was highly valued. Freya, the most famous goddess of Viking mythology, was simultaneously the embodiment of sex, magic, and war. This distinct combination of values led to Sigrid-Świętosława becoming Storråda… I’m not at all surprised that we reach for stories of the outstanding women who came before us, that we want to hear tales of ancient female rulers, to learn about the girls and the women who broke through the glass ceiling a thousand years ago. Our perception of history is changing, too. It became accepted over the centuries that history was created by men. Of course, we cannot change the past, but thanks to the progress made by research and the re-examinations of our earlier findings, we are discovering just how many women did, in fact, have an impact on the fates of kingdoms.”</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #212121; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 30px; margin: 0px 0px 25px; outline: none; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Although both the author and the heroine of <em style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">The Widow Queen</em> are Polish, Cherezińska is quick to point out that this is not the first time that Świętosława has been introduced to the English-speaking world and is in fact reclaiming her place in it. “Świętosława entered the English-speaking world long before I did. Cnut [also known as Canute], who is born in the final scene of the first book, grows up to be King of England, so the debut of <em style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">The Widow Queen</em> on the English market is, really, just her return to the English-speaking world. As for me, I am curious and excited. Will you welcome Świętosława as if she were one of your own? Will you struggle with the difficult Slavic names? Or will you lose yourselves in a story of a world from a thousand years ago, a world in which people, though experiencing a very different everyday existence, nevertheless love, desire, and suffer just like we do?”</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #212121; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 30px; margin: 0px 0px 25px; outline: none; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><em style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">We are very grateful to Maya Zakrewska-Pim for translating the author’s responses to Lisa’s questions into English.</em></p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #212121; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 30px; margin: 0px 0px 25px; outline: none; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><strong style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">ABOUT THE CONTRIBUTOR: </strong>Lisa Redmond blogs at “The Madwoman in the Attic” (<a href="http://lisareadsbooks.blogspot.com/" style="background: transparent; box-sizing: border-box; color: #b5af00; display: inline-block; font-size: 16px; line-height: 17px; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: none; transition: all 0.1s ease-in 0s; vertical-align: baseline;">http://lisareadsbooks.blogspot.com/</a>) about women writers and historical fiction. She is currently working on a novel based on the 17th-century Scottish witch trials.</p><p style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #212121; font-family: "Open Sans", sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 30px; margin: 0px 0px 25px; outline: none; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><strong style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Published in <em style="background: transparent; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Historical Novels Review</em> | Issue 95 (February 2021)</strong></p>Lisa D, http://www.blogger.com/profile/17990194728330161897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2373013519897096915.post-55385149626278802492023-07-16T17:42:00.000+01:002023-07-16T17:42:19.855+01:00Runes of Battle by G.N. Gudgion<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-sTvOkSgGoNbF4DaMAX7JV9HRRka5Rz1n5ER7GwCr99jDUx_GvgoTwQ-9oEnU4wgFTbl-p1fvh8hznIBDHtqvp6hb0kd1uS6RApWpznKjlWoOiJ6C4D2EwC543msi5OQY8Y1OMMtsfI3AIwsjiCiD02GGtVHdB8IwNqbI23VcLKOFW7dkVNevTGYoVpEJ/s2560/Runes-of-Battle-Kindle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2560" data-original-width="1707" height="337" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-sTvOkSgGoNbF4DaMAX7JV9HRRka5Rz1n5ER7GwCr99jDUx_GvgoTwQ-9oEnU4wgFTbl-p1fvh8hznIBDHtqvp6hb0kd1uS6RApWpznKjlWoOiJ6C4D2EwC543msi5OQY8Y1OMMtsfI3AIwsjiCiD02GGtVHdB8IwNqbI23VcLKOFW7dkVNevTGYoVpEJ/w235-h337/Runes-of-Battle-Kindle.jpg" width="235" /></a></div><br /><p>I am delighted to be hosting a spot on the blog tour for G.N. Gudgion's Runes of Battle which is Book Two in the Rune Song Trilogy. </p><p>Runes of Battle continues the story where the previous book left off so is best read after completing the first book. Adelais our main character is now on the run, accused of murdering the high priest, she has disguised herself as a man and escaped to the north hoping to return to her homeland. She spends the winter among friends honing her skill with a sword and her magical gift of runesong. The stakes remain high as Gudgion keeps the tension mounting by switching viewpoints between a number of characters, so that in one chapter we see our heroine relax and grow in her skills and in the next we see the antagonist Barthram closing in on her hiding place. </p><p>The world building is fantastic as Gudjion blends ideas from Norse mythology and runelore with the medieval church's attacks on so called heretical sects such as the Cathars and the Knights Templar. The landscape and the characters come alive in Gudjion's skillful storytelling and Adelais is a wonderful heroine, poised, strong and smart but also lonely, anxious and self doubting. </p><p>Unlike many second books of a trilogy Runes of Battle is not just a "murky middle" carrying our characters from inciting incident to dramatic climax but a well thought out plot which fleshes out the characters and the world in which the story takes place. </p><p>A must read for fans of Robin, Hobb. Mark Lawrence, Juliet Marillier and Theodore Brun and shows like The Witcher and The Wheel of Time. Available now from Second Sky Books part of Bookoutre Publishing.</p><p><a href="https://secondskybooks.com/">https://secondskybooks.com/</a><br /></p><p><a href="https://bookouture.com/">https://bookouture.com/</a><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4X0wa16Fx0CVGee2jPBl1ILINUBmY5-Yr_fWMzVzeG8Sd6GT1OmNQMwH-vFJRTIj0xzbYKRUDLd4q4InEQ9iKbgx38oVylEndPQuc0wWgWHyX8koE24eohsz3rE7ubicOiCVJr0R-YuSi5DnDIWlIuxATjjhqCxzvJTPD2tciSCE26WaCS0SF1Ni2ezpL/s450/G.N.%20Gudgion.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="450" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4X0wa16Fx0CVGee2jPBl1ILINUBmY5-Yr_fWMzVzeG8Sd6GT1OmNQMwH-vFJRTIj0xzbYKRUDLd4q4InEQ9iKbgx38oVylEndPQuc0wWgWHyX8koE24eohsz3rE7ubicOiCVJr0R-YuSi5DnDIWlIuxATjjhqCxzvJTPD2tciSCE26WaCS0SF1Ni2ezpL/s320/G.N.%20Gudgion.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Lisa D, http://www.blogger.com/profile/17990194728330161897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2373013519897096915.post-61368576691436908532023-06-28T22:35:00.005+01:002023-06-28T22:40:31.957+01:00The Bookseller’s Daughter by Daniela Sacerdoti<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0Hrkaq89de-kJOMNtma5nqh7fYFYNWhSKNhsk2yH3F8-bi6SVgiqSUvvOZxQwnVcfaK71C-aI9p1W9FUAVp8vi8EbsgvXRAbQjFCodx01UTnyvKrNNzJCdCUyCAwkFZ7_g0IwIeTQGYqoS1f3H72MHoeru8B7jFnc_2KU262EP63y38K2-hgk4533lBCs/s2339/The-Booksellers-Daughter-Kindle.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2339" data-original-width="1524" height="359" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0Hrkaq89de-kJOMNtma5nqh7fYFYNWhSKNhsk2yH3F8-bi6SVgiqSUvvOZxQwnVcfaK71C-aI9p1W9FUAVp8vi8EbsgvXRAbQjFCodx01UTnyvKrNNzJCdCUyCAwkFZ7_g0IwIeTQGYqoS1f3H72MHoeru8B7jFnc_2KU262EP63y38K2-hgk4533lBCs/w251-h359/The-Booksellers-Daughter-Kindle.jpg" width="251" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><br /><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">Daniela Sacerdoti’s latest novel is a dual time narrative, featuring a New York art historian sent to investigate illuminated manuscripts
in an Italian convent and a young Hungarian Jewish girl who finds refuge at the
convent during the second world war. Santa Caterina is the beautiful island
that connects our two heroines. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Art historian Francesca and bookseller Thiago are both in
Santa Caterina to find out about the rare book collection that they have been
invited to discover. The mysterious owner of the island, Lavinia insists that
they team up and explore the history of the island through the diary of Helena
who had helped to save the manuscripts from the Nazi’s while risking her own safety.
<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">This is a beautiful, romantic, page-turning tale perfect for
fans of Rachel Hore, Kate Morton and Hazel Gaynor. Available now in print and
e-book from Bookoutre. <o:p></o:p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLORXMHERZYKbSnJHc0hWwCwdx5rmXMDyFQec5e6BEWth_YxrfWcMAeOgYPbSyeok_3tfuzlFBzi_xP-O0CX2mJ4Vqjzb2oAN-lRc5FEhz_0mJRi8o4Wt3SP9bpxao3pHjODYl76K541pDfpJ7Vaq1a3V_EFEYnU83WieBJHV6mQ8E3iXf6FcpKBf_YpHp/s1080/The%20Bookseller's%20Daughter%20-%20Books%20On%20Tour.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLORXMHERZYKbSnJHc0hWwCwdx5rmXMDyFQec5e6BEWth_YxrfWcMAeOgYPbSyeok_3tfuzlFBzi_xP-O0CX2mJ4Vqjzb2oAN-lRc5FEhz_0mJRi8o4Wt3SP9bpxao3pHjODYl76K541pDfpJ7Vaq1a3V_EFEYnU83WieBJHV6mQ8E3iXf6FcpKBf_YpHp/s320/The%20Bookseller's%20Daughter%20-%20Books%20On%20Tour.png" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p>Lisa D, http://www.blogger.com/profile/17990194728330161897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2373013519897096915.post-25183011769941449002023-04-22T13:16:00.000+01:002023-04-22T13:16:06.277+01:00I Julian by Claire Gilbert<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7034sQLl9IflRnvlzFwGnJDS0jnjaIa__n8mbkp2GuexizeU6HDOzgGbhHqhiouX6SyXVsIgPMBzXM_lFzoCAA9CDqEn8w6oQR8xahzhogbw2EtpiADkuAeaXfgQcVWl7_XXSUmqU8JaE2lxVe4V33Qbltv4MEt1y94njUJR7L5pxS787s3KjJtiD4A/s640/I%20Julian%20cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="400" height="332" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7034sQLl9IflRnvlzFwGnJDS0jnjaIa__n8mbkp2GuexizeU6HDOzgGbhHqhiouX6SyXVsIgPMBzXM_lFzoCAA9CDqEn8w6oQR8xahzhogbw2EtpiADkuAeaXfgQcVWl7_XXSUmqU8JaE2lxVe4V33Qbltv4MEt1y94njUJR7L5pxS787s3KjJtiD4A/w226-h332/I%20Julian%20cover.jpg" width="226" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><p></p><p><br /></p><p>I, Julian by Claire Gilbert is a fictional biography of Julian of Norwhich detailing her life, her faith and her writing. It is an extraordinary work of creativity, spirituality and scholarly research. The narrative opens a window on medieval life allowing us to see the perils of plague and poverty, the devotion of faith through grief and hardship and the everyday life of medieval people as they celebrate, perform plays and pilgrimages and mark the passing of the year through the saints and feast days. </p><p><br /></p><p>Julian chafes against the restrictions and conventions of her world. Having grown up with her mother in harmony with nature and deeply enmeshed in her faith, finding solace in prayer. She is a solitary young woman prefering to read, think and pray than involve herself in the role expected of her as a young merchant's wife. She finds running a household and raising a child dull and irritating. </p><p><br /></p><p>Then tragedy strikes as her husband and daughter are taken by the pestilance, stricken by grief and blaming herself Julian believes that God is angry with her as she searches desperately for meaning and purpose until she herself falls ill and as she recovers her visions begin.</p><p><br /></p><p>Julian of Norwhich is brought to vivid life by Claire Gilberts magical writing, a fantastic achievment that will appeal to anyone who enjoys reading historical fiction or non fiction especially those who have read and loved Maggie O'Farrell's Hamnet. </p><p><br /></p><p>Thanks so much to Rhoda Hardie PR and Hodder and Stoughton for a gifted copy. Details of the blog tour below. </p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhczHEm8n-TpdQGGCDCX5CrQEROwXChQBgJCpaOq8cX-_DhjN-f3jA_6BsQ7xwahx4qF4YR0B__W2G5OK4TnbnUyFcHq38lCJ_8oeZp1QZfRZGnf2sDuACQsgbWxy1pf9Pu9uUPNkRPeFCA2bUwpeXp_DjDjgn4nbXLASbCKc0oyWQrZJ-cC3Yk8gUNFA/s1200/I%20Julian.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1200" height="334" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhczHEm8n-TpdQGGCDCX5CrQEROwXChQBgJCpaOq8cX-_DhjN-f3jA_6BsQ7xwahx4qF4YR0B__W2G5OK4TnbnUyFcHq38lCJ_8oeZp1QZfRZGnf2sDuACQsgbWxy1pf9Pu9uUPNkRPeFCA2bUwpeXp_DjDjgn4nbXLASbCKc0oyWQrZJ-cC3Yk8gUNFA/w368-h334/I%20Julian.jpg" width="368" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Lisa D, http://www.blogger.com/profile/17990194728330161897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2373013519897096915.post-41537526930197665712022-11-29T21:54:00.005+00:002022-11-29T21:57:51.694+00:00A Class Reunited by Susie Murphy<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf-lqc4F8ziLlviBC7sPO2zU0FZ-HTm7QiYBNgE2jOTiySeAbllVm38Ed7C9_kYPjSutijRMC-YCc8Uq11i2LZYc3hEl9auBhwKR-1UfiyXfnrREKfn-UfP_W2TtKMtJIV7FqFxBxxJMWCt3wRQDGY0FLfGTFgLz8Pz-npevX38luW0ntlx-vSIijeDA/s2000/A%20Class%20Reunited.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="1249" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf-lqc4F8ziLlviBC7sPO2zU0FZ-HTm7QiYBNgE2jOTiySeAbllVm38Ed7C9_kYPjSutijRMC-YCc8Uq11i2LZYc3hEl9auBhwKR-1UfiyXfnrREKfn-UfP_W2TtKMtJIV7FqFxBxxJMWCt3wRQDGY0FLfGTFgLz8Pz-npevX38luW0ntlx-vSIijeDA/s320/A%20Class%20Reunited.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>The fifth instalment of Susie Murphy's outstanding romantic historical series A Matter of Class is published this week. </p><p>With eldest daughter Emily having run away Bridget and Cormac's family life is once again disrupted. A Class Reunited follows Emily and Rory as they sail to England. Emily hoping to reclaim her place in society and Rory insisting on offering her protection. Realising that they have gone Cormac sets out after them leaving Bridget to look after their two sons in Boston, but as is usually the way for this intrepid couple things don't run smoothly. Soon Bridget receives word that Bronagh, Cormac's long missing sister has been seen in New York. This instalment sees much upheaval, peril and suffering for the McGovern family and features Susie Murphy's trademark storytelling ability.</p><p>If you have not yet read this wonderful series then you have a treat in store. Perfect for fans of Hazel Gaynor, Lucinda Riley and A O'Connor. I absolutely love Susie's writing, always page turning and often surprising. I always look forward to each new instalment in this series.</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAsJGR8BjY7IV9yBeY2JnA4buY6qqbO7p0nHd7Kx_w5PXG9Dy283996X5UUOCbUHtISwUSxRmJxDAo-pYehZ-m1EMrxl6r-URTgbOhdfoLC6H7t7YOP-PYUBD6ZyevHIG_MK-7sB-2oKm_NyHAFykz-MTad0w1sxNFQ_c3QDSt7cKPaU3Ouxn7b1v8Bw/s1417/A%20Matter%20of%20Class%20series.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="920" data-original-width="1417" height="208" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAsJGR8BjY7IV9yBeY2JnA4buY6qqbO7p0nHd7Kx_w5PXG9Dy283996X5UUOCbUHtISwUSxRmJxDAo-pYehZ-m1EMrxl6r-URTgbOhdfoLC6H7t7YOP-PYUBD6ZyevHIG_MK-7sB-2oKm_NyHAFykz-MTad0w1sxNFQ_c3QDSt7cKPaU3Ouxn7b1v8Bw/s320/A%20Matter%20of%20Class%20series.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>Get your copy of A Class Reunited at the links below</p><p><a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Class-Reunited-sweeping-historical-romance-ebook/dp/B0BJKY614J/ref=sr_1_2?crid=3W4BDKPUAY0W7&keywords=susie+murphy&qid=1669758498&sprefix=susie+mu%2Caps%2C119&sr=8-2">Amazon Uk</a> ebook and paperback <br /></p><p><br /></p><p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Class-Reunited-Matter/dp/191577005X/ref=sr_1_2?crid=PVQ65ENASIMK&keywords=susie+murphy+books+a+class+reunited&qid=1669758749&sprefix=susie+murphy%2Caps%2C191&sr=8-2">Amazon US</a> paperback<br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Lisa D, http://www.blogger.com/profile/17990194728330161897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2373013519897096915.post-49264001115273932862022-09-18T17:08:00.000+01:002022-09-18T17:08:13.903+01:00Sherlock Holmes and Mr Hyde by Christian Klaver<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDmExr3LiQNojwIr-jhrymtdrJRrqiLgAoqRAcdDcNscoZNx4s_6GorBoghKXf45RJ99Ly8ZUfj5Laa7oBfVIlEM5n-9mffnPQ5f8Un9JkNKux7Q4Fo1QYT7AaMIwGL7R57z2vRHOJeannvud1wXXS_03CW-Be2Xfdf7RYdMdD6SVfdfhw99xSb36pcw/s541/the-classified-dossier-sherlock-holmes-and-mr-hyde-1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="541" data-original-width="353" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDmExr3LiQNojwIr-jhrymtdrJRrqiLgAoqRAcdDcNscoZNx4s_6GorBoghKXf45RJ99Ly8ZUfj5Laa7oBfVIlEM5n-9mffnPQ5f8Un9JkNKux7Q4Fo1QYT7AaMIwGL7R57z2vRHOJeannvud1wXXS_03CW-Be2Xfdf7RYdMdD6SVfdfhw99xSb36pcw/s320/the-classified-dossier-sherlock-holmes-and-mr-hyde-1.jpg" width="209" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>Just published this week Sherlock Holmes and Mr Hyde is the second in Christian Klaver's The Classified Dossier Series published by Titan Books. While the book can be read as a standalone adventure, it follows on from last year's thrilling Sherlock Holmes and Count Dracula and includes characters and settings from the previous novel which enrich the fog bound London of Holmes and Watson with supernatural creatures; keeping fans of Victorian gothic enthralled. </p><p>The added element of the supernatural makes Holmes less sure of himself and allows for greater introspection and character development of Holmes and Watson, making this book more than just a mash up of Doyle and Stevenson's work. </p><p>The intrepid duo of Holmes and Watson are disturbed one morning by an unexpected and desperate vistor Dr Jekyll, who arrives amid reports of a strange killing in Whitechapel and fears that Jack the Ripper has returned. Dr Jekyll soon reveals his alter ego and explains his connection to the murdered woman. The police are certain Hyde is the killer and Holmes is tasked with proving his innocence. </p><p>The pursuit of the truth leads the pair and their new acquaitances down some dark paths and makes for a thrilling, shocking and entertaining read. </p><p>Sherlock Holmes and Mr Hyde is ot now in hardback at 14.99. Thank you to Titan books for a review copy. </p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Lisa D, http://www.blogger.com/profile/17990194728330161897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2373013519897096915.post-75641216112789694512022-08-07T22:24:00.007+01:002022-08-07T22:26:56.904+01:00The Water Witch <p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6VtBYg8bsWpJDI4DTxeaoxrzl7JD9VNfaxSLxdHPzrc0Fy42mUdY583bqB37up6PuusLXHWa3wWkxbzhjehppNkzV0ng2JWSMtXbgsJ1IefFeiIUUeU6zkFBbW7G_slDc02rkiimA3H58oyiSZ7bvFU_57cPtD4xfhrcgM8QWSrIigAOMh1Fs3JNmNA/s393/The%20Water%20Witch.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="393" data-original-width="255" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6VtBYg8bsWpJDI4DTxeaoxrzl7JD9VNfaxSLxdHPzrc0Fy42mUdY583bqB37up6PuusLXHWa3wWkxbzhjehppNkzV0ng2JWSMtXbgsJ1IefFeiIUUeU6zkFBbW7G_slDc02rkiimA3H58oyiSZ7bvFU_57cPtD4xfhrcgM8QWSrIigAOMh1Fs3JNmNA/s320/The%20Water%20Witch.png" width="208" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">A new Jessica Thorne novel is always a good thing. A Jessica Thorne novel featuring celtic mythology, secrets, romance and a lost underwater city; sign me the hell up.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Ariadne Walker is an archaeologist who has arrived in Brittany at her brother's invitation. He thinks he may have found the forgotten City Of Ys. Ariadne is still grieving her fiance Simon who drowned searching for treasure in this same spot. Ari has never believed in the Water Witch or her curse but revisiting the place of Simon's death she is haunted everywhere she turns. Then she meets Rafael a local, descended from an ancient Breton family and he swears that the curse and the legends of Ys are very real. Together he and Ari search for a way to break the centuries old curse of the Water Witch that has led the men of Rafael's family to an early grave. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">A novel filled with Jessica Thorne's trademarks of romance, tension and magic I devoured this book. A perfect choice for fans of Anna Mckerrow, Sarah Painter, and Christina Courtenay. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><p></p><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><p style="text-align: left;"> </p></blockquote>Lisa D, http://www.blogger.com/profile/17990194728330161897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2373013519897096915.post-78905760487991276822021-11-28T22:27:00.001+00:002021-11-28T22:27:03.572+00:00A Class Coveted by Susie Murphy Blog Tour <p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNovcMCUwPbXmmSOl11WomiuBYRxAnAkZ7e-JC_rlcc_is5Bk66IuEY7sb-2vxHegHdkHKw43CzlYjBn5LhTjINcQdVm5XVNi8MKhtHqOGiwQ64Nd4VJqKJnIyQfv_rkw8s0OLkNa_Sd8K/s1000/A+Class+Coveted.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="625" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNovcMCUwPbXmmSOl11WomiuBYRxAnAkZ7e-JC_rlcc_is5Bk66IuEY7sb-2vxHegHdkHKw43CzlYjBn5LhTjINcQdVm5XVNi8MKhtHqOGiwQ64Nd4VJqKJnIyQfv_rkw8s0OLkNa_Sd8K/w250-h400/A+Class+Coveted.jpg" width="250" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>I am truly d<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">elighted to be asked to take part in the blog tour for Susie Murphy's
latest book; number four in the A Matter of Class series; A Class
Coveted. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 13.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-IE;">The book opens with the McGovern family arriving in Boston after a long
voyage from Ireland. Cormac hopes to provide a better future for their growing
family and also search for his sister Bronagh. Bridget hopes to find peace and normality
away from the prying eyes of her past and her cold and calculating husband.
Orla and Tess want a safe home and the chance at a future. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 13.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-IE;">While the family face prejudice towards the Irish, Boston does provide.
Cormac finds work and friends and Bridget finds that her needlework can
increase their earnings. Orla finds love and a vocation. The story unfolds over
a number of years and each character takes their turn in the spotlight, but
this book is really Emily's story. As she grows up, she finds friendship easy
but the reality of her lowly place in society as the daughter of Irish
immigrants soon becomes apparent. She longs to attend a prestigious art school
and make a living as an artist and while it seems such opportunities are
opening up for women at last, they are only opening for women of wealthy
backgrounds. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 13.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-IE;">Emily finds work as a housemaid and her resentment towards the monied class that see her as little more than furniture builds, and Emily begins to covet the social
standing and the life of a young lady that she was born to. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 13.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-IE;">Once again Susie Murphy has created a page turning and beautifully paced
novel continuing the Bridget and Cormac story into the next generation. Her
observations on class and culture blend seamlessly with the narrative and the
story is never overwhelmed by the research. A striking portrait of mid
nineteenth century Boston emerges; the poverty, the prejudice, the danger. A
fantastic historical read for fans of Hazel Gaynor, Marita Conlon-McKenna, Anne
Marie Brear or Nicola Cassidy. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 13.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-IE;">Availble as a paperback or e-book now. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV3oUGWm1hjVGLqObJd5tIdteGDuO2CibnIOqnw1Y9KshTgP9i_r9JR30reavmzAy6Tb8iTEBRDp-uq5FSUWoIj8sn1CapLvCpFmTWZV9Y7L0BXVTefw6VoFoyqdKvbx9nZ0AneoYi255y/s1500/A+Class+Coveted+blog+tour.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1500" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV3oUGWm1hjVGLqObJd5tIdteGDuO2CibnIOqnw1Y9KshTgP9i_r9JR30reavmzAy6Tb8iTEBRDp-uq5FSUWoIj8sn1CapLvCpFmTWZV9Y7L0BXVTefw6VoFoyqdKvbx9nZ0AneoYi255y/w398-h400/A+Class+Coveted+blog+tour.jpg" width="398" /></a></div><br /><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 13.5pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-IE;"><br /></span><p></p>Lisa D, http://www.blogger.com/profile/17990194728330161897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2373013519897096915.post-87583074925541579002021-07-01T22:43:00.000+01:002021-07-01T22:43:09.041+01:00The Devil and the Heiress by Harper St George<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI-fVqZIu75SSoBjXnqpdIztw-bFYweYov7BsWdZVrhYt8wVtMq3WnuWkPzH2XZhh8q6_UykW2nQIW-czvPMNUOBX3wb4N_tPU2Dmg8b70HRU46VXzxYHttAQRGhnbXs0OFZ91gIRfsedN/s700/The+Devil+and+the+Heiress.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="700" data-original-width="434" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI-fVqZIu75SSoBjXnqpdIztw-bFYweYov7BsWdZVrhYt8wVtMq3WnuWkPzH2XZhh8q6_UykW2nQIW-czvPMNUOBX3wb4N_tPU2Dmg8b70HRU46VXzxYHttAQRGhnbXs0OFZ91gIRfsedN/w248-h400/The+Devil+and+the+Heiress.jpg" width="248" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>I am thrilled to be part of the blog tour for the second book in Harper St George's Gilded Age Heiress series. The Devil and the Heiress focuses on Violet, younger sister to the more serious August who was the main character in the previous instalment. Violet might at first seem more traditional than her sister more in love with the idea of love. However, while she may not share her sister's interest in business, Violet does have her own plans and is determined on a career as a novelist. Besides which, she is a shrewd young woman who will not be railroaded into an arranged marriage. </p><p>Violet arrived in London with her family believing that their trip was about visiting friends and her father furthering his business interests. It soon becomes obvious that it is her parents plan to combine business and marriage and to find her a husband who can gain them entry to the doors in New York that were previously closed. As Violet resists her parents attempts to match her up, she learns that her American sweetheart has been paid off and in a fit of outrage Violet decides to take fate into her own hands and runs away. </p><p>With the assitance of a willing but scandalous young Lord, Violet sets off out of London. However the man who aids her, Lord Leigh, is the same one that Violet has been observing since she arrived in England, the man who was the inspitration for the infamous Lord Lucifer in her novel, and Violet cannot deny her feelings for him. Meanwhile Lord Leigh is determined to bag an American heiress to restore his Scottish estate and has set his sights on Violet and he will go to any lengths to get her. </p><p>Harper St George's writing is delightful, she breathes new life into traditional tropes and creates great characters with chemistry and sparks that leap from the page. This was a fun, romantic and fast paced read. An author that fans of Victorian romance should not miss. </p><p>Thanks so much to Historical Fiction Virtual Book tours for a gifted e-copy of the book. The Devil and the Heiress is available in print and ebook now. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjemnddDH1fQEn3h0kb9a-R2kpgid3JXXM8QP4OKJSiMKLGuamOhWowo99cV-X9ynY1PSlAQtZ8qFRoV9L8milvFS3fzVLLc-HNA-w6_p0uaWm4BkvmjrKiHvsqVQYqHwAH4gh9qGcaFio8/s645/The+Devil+and+the+Heiress_Blog+Tour+Banner.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="387" data-original-width="645" height="384" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjemnddDH1fQEn3h0kb9a-R2kpgid3JXXM8QP4OKJSiMKLGuamOhWowo99cV-X9ynY1PSlAQtZ8qFRoV9L8milvFS3fzVLLc-HNA-w6_p0uaWm4BkvmjrKiHvsqVQYqHwAH4gh9qGcaFio8/w640-h384/The+Devil+and+the+Heiress_Blog+Tour+Banner.png" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Lisa D, http://www.blogger.com/profile/17990194728330161897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2373013519897096915.post-82945941732412956422021-06-08T20:26:00.009+01:002021-06-08T20:29:45.421+01:00A Distant Horizon by Annemarie Brear <p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLNhp7o9vCuAIgba8n7x9lcP2hJMPq0A0w0akw902iOJ35Tt5JpH_JuwJ-8GdtoiIX2XIHGV9YS5-uqLanRzmLhev3PFKemZDf3P2XGlcGznzWI01bfBBBpURkfkyJQGb8n6GESagQCtC1/s1500/A+distat+Horizon.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1500" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLNhp7o9vCuAIgba8n7x9lcP2hJMPq0A0w0akw902iOJ35Tt5JpH_JuwJ-8GdtoiIX2XIHGV9YS5-uqLanRzmLhev3PFKemZDf3P2XGlcGznzWI01bfBBBpURkfkyJQGb8n6GESagQCtC1/w640-h640/A+distat+Horizon.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>I was delighted to be asked to take part in the blog tour for Annemarie Brear's latest historical novel. A Distant Horizon is a sweeping historical saga that opens with Ellen Kittrick struggling to keep her family fed and a roof over her children's heads, as the Irish famine continues and the crop fails once again. Ellen had been a beauty, and married for love at sixteen a man she adored, whom she believed would be a good provider. However the famine has robbed her husband of his chance to provide and he has turned to drinking and gambling. As a tragedy strikes the family, Ellen must choose whether to stay in Ireland and beg or take the chance of making a new life in Australia. Assisted by her employer and his business partner in Liverpool, Ellen sets out with her family to make a new life in a new territory. </p><p>A well written tale of poverty, bravery and determination. Annemarie Brear is a prolific author with a great storytelling gift. This book will appeal to fans of Susie Murphy, Mollie Walton and Rosie Goodwin. Thanks to LoveBooksTours for the gifted e-ARC of the book.</p><p><br /></p>Lisa D, http://www.blogger.com/profile/17990194728330161897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2373013519897096915.post-73583995191514982172021-04-29T00:42:00.001+01:002021-04-29T00:42:00.216+01:00By My Sword Alone Blog Blitz<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIwjBQxV56OnoD4v6knf_pA5Rr7TnAyR2TFOgAF7udIPvbXUXmZhVUlevfi2LvIhB5kOSLIF0yMeEiEgzGj6n7Z4nUR5rnvpfSIde5lvbAJHE6yxqaBp7R-EiG-AN9_nplgx4VubONxx6m/s2048/By+My+Sword+Alone+%25281%2529.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1368" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIwjBQxV56OnoD4v6knf_pA5Rr7TnAyR2TFOgAF7udIPvbXUXmZhVUlevfi2LvIhB5kOSLIF0yMeEiEgzGj6n7Z4nUR5rnvpfSIde5lvbAJHE6yxqaBp7R-EiG-AN9_nplgx4VubONxx6m/w428-h640/By+My+Sword+Alone+%25281%2529.jpeg" width="428" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Publishing Today 29th April from Lume Books</span></b></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; color: #201f1e; font-family: "Segoe UI", "Segoe UI Web (West European)", "Segoe UI", -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, Roboto, "Helvetica Neue", sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10.5pt; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Battle of Glenshiel, 1719. Thirteen-year-old James Lindsay watches the action unfold as the Jacobite forces supported by his family are defeated. For the rebels, it is the beginning of the end. But for James, forever marked by the battle, it is truly just the beginning.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><br style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; color: #201f1e; font-family: "Segoe UI", "Segoe UI Web (West European)", "Segoe UI", -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, Roboto, "Helvetica Neue", sans-serif; font-size: 15px;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; color: #201f1e; font-family: "Segoe UI", "Segoe UI Web (West European)", "Segoe UI", -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, Roboto, "Helvetica Neue", sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10.5pt; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Later, forced to flee Scotland, James finds himself on the European mainland and eventually in the Roman palace of his own ‘king’. There, he experiences all kinds of adventure, from the romantic to the brutal. Chastened by time and experience, he gradually loses the naivety of youth and takes a more mercenary approach as the great events of history unfold.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><br style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; color: #201f1e; font-family: "Segoe UI", "Segoe UI Web (West European)", "Segoe UI", -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, Roboto, "Helvetica Neue", sans-serif; font-size: 15px;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; color: #201f1e; font-family: "Segoe UI", "Segoe UI Web (West European)", "Segoe UI", -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, Roboto, "Helvetica Neue", sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10.5pt; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Yet all the while, he is aware of developing philosophies and how they are extending, slowly, into the lives of men and women – and monarchs. On he battles, through the Age of Enlightenment – until he meets a woman who challenges everything …</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><br style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; color: #201f1e; font-family: "Segoe UI", "Segoe UI Web (West European)", "Segoe UI", -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, Roboto, "Helvetica Neue", sans-serif; font-size: 15px;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; color: #201f1e; font-family: "Segoe UI", "Segoe UI Web (West European)", "Segoe UI", -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, Roboto, "Helvetica Neue", sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10.5pt; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">By My Sword Alone</span><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10.5pt; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> is a striking blend of historical novel and psychological profile that immerses readers in the thought, politics and bloodshed of eighteenth-century Europe. It will please David Black’s many fans and likely win him many more.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><br style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; color: #201f1e; font-family: "Segoe UI", "Segoe UI Web (West European)", "Segoe UI", -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, Roboto, "Helvetica Neue", sans-serif; font-size: 15px;" /></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></p><div style="color: #201f1e; font-family: "Segoe UI", "Segoe UI Web (West European)", "Segoe UI", -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, Roboto, "Helvetica Neue", sans-serif; font-size: 15px; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: 700; white-space: pre-wrap;">Author Bio</span></div><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: transparent; border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></span><p></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; color: #201f1e; font-family: "Segoe UI", "Segoe UI Web (West European)", "Segoe UI", -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, Roboto, "Helvetica Neue", sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; color: inherit; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">David Black is the author of the best-selling Harry Gilmour series set in the Royal Navy submarine service during World War Two. He also wrote the novella All the Freshness of the Morning, a fictionalized account of President John F. Kennedy’s epic World War Two service as Skipper of the US Navy torpedo boat PT-109 in South Pacific. Black is a former UK national newspaper journalist and TV documentary producer. He now lives in Argyll and writes full time.</span></p>Lisa D, http://www.blogger.com/profile/17990194728330161897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2373013519897096915.post-86610178781437099712021-04-23T13:54:00.001+01:002021-04-23T13:54:38.230+01:00The Metal Heart by Caroline Lea <p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9LlGnmbrC_tjIYEAsiaVWwtKo22xA5zgtkSE_J8VmwBCNm96B6kqIOpXFF7gq-D5V-tqctRgqRyYt4iKSLk4rOEhX0htzhEuD-HjoloMozbC_8y-1zO-d_-advoew_n1cXPuYxJbIer-h/s823/image001+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="823" data-original-width="567" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9LlGnmbrC_tjIYEAsiaVWwtKo22xA5zgtkSE_J8VmwBCNm96B6kqIOpXFF7gq-D5V-tqctRgqRyYt4iKSLk4rOEhX0htzhEuD-HjoloMozbC_8y-1zO-d_-advoew_n1cXPuYxJbIer-h/w275-h400/image001+%25281%2529.jpg" width="275" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>It is 1941 and twins sisters Con and Dot live alone in a ramshackle old bothy on a small Orkney island. They need to row across to Kirkwall to collect provisions each week. The people of Kirkwall find the sisters strange, taciturn, unusual and they whisper about them living alone on the cursed island of Selkie Holm. But in 1942 everything changes as a thousand Italian prisoners of war are brought to Orkney to build defences and their camp is built on the island of Selkie Holm. When Dot rescues Cesare from drowning their lives are connected and he vows to help the sisters in whatever way he can; repairing their damaged roof and promising to fetch medicine when Con becomes ill. However the tension of the camp, the superstitions of the local people and the privations of war boil over into a conflict that ends in death, because there is a reason why the sisters chose to live cut off from everyone else and they will protect each other no matter the cost. </p><p>I was utterly enchanted with this book from page one. I simply couldn't stop reading. Caroline Lea is a gifted writer conjuring character, place and atmosphere, so much so that I shivered with the cold and damp as read in my sunny garden. I was so caught up in Dot, Con and Cesare's story that I raced to finish the book and felt bereft when I did. A stunning work of historical fiction, based in fact but steeped in the folklore and atmosphere of Orkney. A must read for fans of The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society and Caroline's previous work. </p><p>Thanks so much Penguin Random House for a proof copy of the book and the chance to take part in this blog tour. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglmP24hY8UIG2wRAZoCYokshoqCJC6ZXfI6kx1LeSIFdSmAjPb-UzzvUUK_n3-4I1-lTerPF_kj4ZxP7ceQa2-g7B3U4P54c2mwdNn_2HtsE_EF4oDj1UZJkzgGhymhyny4a8wajoX6m_s/s1024/image001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="573" data-original-width="1024" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglmP24hY8UIG2wRAZoCYokshoqCJC6ZXfI6kx1LeSIFdSmAjPb-UzzvUUK_n3-4I1-lTerPF_kj4ZxP7ceQa2-g7B3U4P54c2mwdNn_2HtsE_EF4oDj1UZJkzgGhymhyny4a8wajoX6m_s/w640-h358/image001.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p>Lisa D, http://www.blogger.com/profile/17990194728330161897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2373013519897096915.post-71517731711459482162021-04-15T20:57:00.002+01:002021-04-15T20:57:13.496+01:00The Rebel Nun by Marj Charlier Blog Tour<p><br /></p><span id="docs-internal-guid-670bd844-7fff-dc3b-341d-bb79060682b9"><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibbXogGf5-DtaNKsLZLyLhhOdcabUGaxSNEbp5Hwzpaz8V_OCDEC7Dp8yJQcPZzE57a6r9AGq0SK1dOdX3QFSX_shexEgOcnvkvq0Zm1q647wdSPvJyidCNJVkrIZjSlIzhNGTsPwx3YQB/s640/The+Rebel+Nun_web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="400" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibbXogGf5-DtaNKsLZLyLhhOdcabUGaxSNEbp5Hwzpaz8V_OCDEC7Dp8yJQcPZzE57a6r9AGq0SK1dOdX3QFSX_shexEgOcnvkvq0Zm1q647wdSPvJyidCNJVkrIZjSlIzhNGTsPwx3YQB/w250-h400/The+Rebel+Nun_web.jpg" width="250" /></a></div><br /></span><p></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">For the Blog Tour today I have an exclusive extract from the audio edition of the book at the link below</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/blackstoneaudio/the-rebel-nun-by-marj-charlier">The Rebel Nun by Marj Charlier - Audiobook Excerpt by Blackstone Audio (soundcloud.com)</a></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Marj Charlier’s The Rebel Nun is based on the true story of Clotild, the daughter of a sixth-century king and his concubine, who leads a rebellion of nuns against the rising misogyny and patriarchy of the medieval church.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">At that time, women are afforded few choices in life: prostitution, motherhood, or the cloister. Only the latter offers them any kind of independence. By the end of the sixth century, even this is eroding as the church begins to eject women from the clergy and declares them too unclean to touch sacramental objects or even their priest-husbands.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Craving the legitimacy thwarted by her bastard status, Clotild seeks to become the next abbess of the female Monastery of the Holy Cross, the most famous of the women’s cloisters of the early Middle Ages. When the bishop of Poitiers blocks her appointment and seeks to control the nunnery himself, Clotild masterminds an escape, leading a group of nuns on a dangerous pilgrimage to beg her royal relatives to intercede on their behalf. But the bishop refuses to back down, and a bloody battle ensues. Will Clotild and her sisters succeed with their quest, or will they face ex-communication, possibly even death?</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In the only historical novel written about the incident, The Rebel Nun is a richly imagined story about a truly remarkable heroine.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Buy Links</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1094092754" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #0563c1; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1094092754</span></a></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-rebel-nun-marj-charlier/1137516820?ean=9781094092751" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #0563c1; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-rebel-nun-marj-charlier/1137516820?ean=9781094092751</span></a></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://www.booksamillion.com/p/Rebel-Nun/Marj-Charlier/9781094092751?id=7984811508242" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #0563c1; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">https://www.booksamillion.com/p/Rebel-Nun/Marj-Charlier/9781094092751?id=7984811508242</span></a></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://www.indiebound.org/book/9781094092751" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #0563c1; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">https://www.indiebound.org/book/9781094092751</span></a></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://www.hudsonbooksellers.com/book/9781094092751" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #0563c1; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">https://www.hudsonbooksellers.com/book/9781094092751</span></a></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Praise</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">‘The Rebel Nun is a boldly imagined story of one early medieval woman’s struggle against the societal forces that constrained her. It draws on historical sources that briefly mention — and condemn — the insurrection that two noble nuns led within their abbey, in Poitiers, in 589. On the basis of this sparse information, Marj Charlier imagines the incident from the perspective of one of these nuns, the noblewoman Clothild, and embeds these events within the larger story of Clothild’s life. The result is an engaging and thought-provoking tale.’ –Samantha Kahn Herrick, Associate Professor of History, Syracuse University</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">‘Marj Charlier takes an obscure sixth-century tale and turns it into a stunning story of a nun caught up in the misogyny of the early Christian church. Led by Clotild, a king’s bastard daughter, a group of nuns attempts to rescue their monastery from the all-male church hierarchy. Extensively researched and rich in historical detail, The Rebel Nun tells of a time when women were chattel, when priests questioned whether females had souls. Charlier’s artfully written account of Clotild’s struggle to save her medieval sisterhood from the dominance of kings and bishops is a perfect novel for today’s women.’ — Sandra Dallas, New York Times bestselling author</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">‘Vividly imagines one of the most fascinating events to occur in sixth-century Gaul, bringing into focus the complexity of the early centuries of Western Christianity as the Church struggled to define its positions on clerical celibacy, the role of women, pre-Christian traditions, and its relationship to secular power. Scholars have long been fascinated with Gregory of Tours’s account of how a rebellion of nuns from the monastery of the Holy Cross in Poitiers supposedly resulted in acts of murder, plunder, and unplanned pregnancies. It is a moment that has been calling out for a writer to do it justice in a work of historical fiction, but which feat no one has dared to attempt — until now. Marj Charlier’s The Rebel Nun brings the sights, sounds, and smells of this event and its aftermath to life in a richly imagined story that is firmly rooted in equal parts rigorous historical research and inspired, creative imagination.” –Dorsey Armstrong, PhD, professor of English/medieval studies at Purdue University, and lecturer for The Great Courses (The Medieval World, The Black Death, and others)</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">‘What could lead nuns to armed rebellion?…This thoughtful imagining of the underlying causes and characters involved in the revolt centers on Clotild, the leader of the insurrection…Charlier carefully constructs a narrative that positions Clotild, a pagan at heart despite her outward piety, as a reluctant revolutionary who pushes for fairness in a Christian world increasingly dominated by men. With power available to so few women, Clotild dares to imagine freedom, despite its cost.’ –Booklist</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">‘The Rebel Nun is a gripping, well-told story of women fighting against a church and society dominated by men who are determined to defeat them in body and spirit. A great tale that will immerse you in a world so different — and not so different — from our own.’ –Philip Freeman, Fletcher Jones Chair of Western Culture at Pepperdine University, author of Saint Brigid’s Bones</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">‘The Rebel Nun is a wildly original, suspenseful account of a group of nuns in medieval France who must endure hardships and treachery from both outside and within their walls. It feels both historically authentic and startlingly contemporary, and I loved every word of it.’ –Elizabeth Stuckey-French, author of The Revenge of the Radioactive Lady</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">‘The Rebel Nun is a gripping tale of heroism and audacity in the least likely of guises — a renowned cloister under the heel of the medieval church. With meticulous research and in exacting detail, Marj Charlier brings to light the remarkable exploits of Clotild, who leads her fellow sisters on a daring escape that culminates in bloody revolt, and a place in history.’ –Denise Heinze, author of The Brief and True Report of Temperance Flowerdew</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">‘The story of a community of women in crisis and the power they found through their will to save themselves, The Rebel Nun tells the fictional truth behind the historical rebellion of the Holy Cross nuns in 589 CE, as recounted in her latter days by one of the rebellion’s leaders, Clotild … Rich in facts and foreshadowing, the historical novel The Rebel Nun finds in the nuns’ rebellion, and in Germanic tribal paganism, an inspirational morality tale and historical precedent for modern women to connect with their own powers, no matter the stakes.’ –Foreword Reviews</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">‘The Rebel Nun is a well-written window into the life of a sixth-century royal bastard and the changing landscape of holy power structures. Charlier writes a strong voice for Clotild, with vivid descriptions of a daily life that brings readers along into her world. The research shows, and Charlier does an excellent job of seamlessly integrating the historical record with her own fiction.’ –Historical Novels Review</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">‘A startling look into a world I never imagined visiting — a sixth-century nunnery, where one bride of Christ only a generation away from paganism breaks her vows of obedience to the church’s male hierarchy and makes it her mission to battle the corruption of bishops oppressing the sisters of the Holy Cross. A well-wrought yarn reflective of historical fact.’ –Darryl Ponicsán, author of Eternal Sojourners</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">About the Author</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Marj Charlier began her writing career at daily and mid-size newspapers before joining the Wall Street Journal as a staff reporter. After twenty years in journalism, she pursued her MBA and began a second career in corporate finance. The Rebel Nun is her first historical novel, and her eleventh published novel.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Social Media Links:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/MarjCharlierAuthor" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #0563c1; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">https://www.facebook.com/MarjCharlierAuthor</span></a></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://twitter.com/AuthorMarj" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #0563c1; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">https://twitter.com/AuthorMarj</span></a></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6993725.Marj_Charlier" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #0563c1; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6993725.Marj_Charlier</span></a></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Giveaway</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Enter to win a copy of The Rebel Nun by Marj Charlier!</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The giveaway is open to the US only and ends on May 14th. You must be 18 or older to enter.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://gleam.io/competitions/5qkVb-the-rebel-nun" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">https://gleam.io/competitions/5qkVb-the-rebel-nun</a></p><div><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQk_RZnlFs88KMuvznvLx84wbaEFZwP5T26CFGl7YYon4uPtAqA40nYptsatjfmVl7IwfqYWhvKOotK0x9_OcUMEfcw3d2x7jcXeVNScZfDa0g2SUmkm1EQ0-2tsXQEFXXTUEm7BCTGQPz/s645/Rebel+Nun+Blog+Tour+Banner.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="387" data-original-width="645" height="384" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQk_RZnlFs88KMuvznvLx84wbaEFZwP5T26CFGl7YYon4uPtAqA40nYptsatjfmVl7IwfqYWhvKOotK0x9_OcUMEfcw3d2x7jcXeVNScZfDa0g2SUmkm1EQ0-2tsXQEFXXTUEm7BCTGQPz/w640-h384/Rebel+Nun+Blog+Tour+Banner.png" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div>Lisa D, http://www.blogger.com/profile/17990194728330161897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2373013519897096915.post-28699631175384458302021-04-05T00:00:00.044+01:002021-04-05T14:14:33.166+01:00Paris In Ruins by M.K.Todd Blog Tour<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjabEzZWrNyiiDr8l2MIn3foKD2LohkkEPPqsi2q1Hzt4haT6GLD_oSQyFDVzDrTTWsW8Z_TbLUULuUToLYYUjFqB5YGqrIANjJn6UN6v9ionP0EhJHg7FvxThlxFZ688mLUSXUI99EudwZ/s600/Paris+in+Ruins_web.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="400" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjabEzZWrNyiiDr8l2MIn3foKD2LohkkEPPqsi2q1Hzt4haT6GLD_oSQyFDVzDrTTWsW8Z_TbLUULuUToLYYUjFqB5YGqrIANjJn6UN6v9ionP0EhJHg7FvxThlxFZ688mLUSXUI99EudwZ/s320/Paris+in+Ruins_web.jpg" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>M.K. Tod's latest novel looks not at Paris during the revolution, nor during World War Two, instead it's subject is Paris during the Franco Prussian war of 1870, a period that is often overlooked in fiction and yet a period of striking change, upheaval and devastation. Camille and Mariele come from privileged backgrounds and have been raised in preparation for balls, dresses and marriage but in a city under siege they must do what they can to aid the people of Paris. Camille may seem frivolous and flirtatious on the outside but she has an appetite for politics and agrees to spy on a group of radicals, relishing the chance to escape into the city's back streets unchaperoned and play the part of a radical herself. </p><p>While Mariele develops from soft hearted to practical and capable. Both young women face challenges and hardship and volunteer to help in whatever way they can Camille as a nurse, Mariele working with young children, as they face food shortages, illness, suspicion and the ravages of war. They are forever changed by their experiences. Tod has clearly done some excellent research. The realities of life in a city under siege are brilliantly drawn. </p><p>This novel will appeal to anyone with an interest in historical fiction but in particular I think to fans of Tasha Alexander, Susanna Kearsley or Tracy Chevalier.</p><p>Thanks to Amy of Historical Fiction Virtual Book Tours for the chance to read an early copy of the book. </p><p>The blog tour continues, details below</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghwUzP9H1N-2HVGtqCCLHiGft6cU993wnonWFzhLddVKGora8ZJ5SWEG0I8Jy_3jPGduJLJg5lmgrYcXnQhRrOmrmkNw9IJ4kXZuEBr0cD7qMtPUET1if2_M_ItQRt882uEqLGaX-VyXFi/s645/Paris+in+Ruins_Blog+Tour+Banner.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="387" data-original-width="645" height="270" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghwUzP9H1N-2HVGtqCCLHiGft6cU993wnonWFzhLddVKGora8ZJ5SWEG0I8Jy_3jPGduJLJg5lmgrYcXnQhRrOmrmkNw9IJ4kXZuEBr0cD7qMtPUET1if2_M_ItQRt882uEqLGaX-VyXFi/w478-h270/Paris+in+Ruins_Blog+Tour+Banner.png" width="478" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Lisa D, http://www.blogger.com/profile/17990194728330161897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2373013519897096915.post-70030021908414384272021-03-20T00:41:00.005+00:002021-03-20T01:28:39.659+00:00The Fountains of Silence by Ruta Sepetys Blog Tour<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEzQrXJn7-f2lDq1v__XRCkZh7FMVZ49wOxjoTfMemZTBYMpm53j07gE1F5xtntevH1apyQPtvy9FzX0JjVeCCsSZEXGjPEex4-pOJpIK5BUJFHcYrbj-6X-kFE0gyEbBZBtr7-gcbdfBL/s1200/Ruta+on+Tour+2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="1200" height="273" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEzQrXJn7-f2lDq1v__XRCkZh7FMVZ49wOxjoTfMemZTBYMpm53j07gE1F5xtntevH1apyQPtvy9FzX0JjVeCCsSZEXGjPEex4-pOJpIK5BUJFHcYrbj-6X-kFE0gyEbBZBtr7-gcbdfBL/w442-h273/Ruta+on+Tour+2.jpg" width="442" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>Ruta Sepetys is a world wide bestselling novelist. She writes YA historical fiction which has broad crossover appeal. She has won and been shortlisted for a number of prizes, including the Carnegie Medal and her work is regularly used in classrooms to teach Young Adults about history and in particular the areas of historical that are often glossed over or barely spoken about. To date her books have focused on twentieth century history and featured stories of young people; including characters surviving under the Soviet regime, refugees fleeing war torn Europe and a gorgeous coming of age tale set in 1950s New Orleans. </p><p>Her latest novel The Fountains of Silence is set in 1950s Spain under the terrifying facist regime of General Franco. In the 1950s, Spain had just begun to open its door to American tourists and American business interests, The book focuses once again on the experiences of young adults; including American Daniel Matheson a young photographer, and Ana a young Spanish hotel maid, whose family has been engulfed by the horrific violence of the fascist state. </p><p>While Ruta has drawn on some of her own family history for her previous novels with The Fountain of Silence she spent seven years exploring the landscape, people and history of Spain in order to ensure the authenticity of the setting and the story. Her work is detailed and descriptive but she has put just as much effort into crafting compelling and believable characters and a genuine page turning story. </p><p>Ruta uses excerpts from newspapers, magazines, official documents, telegrams and various other sources that she discovered during her research and this has added a richness and texture to the story, reminding us that although the characters are fictional, the world they lived in was very real.</p><p>Silence is explored throughout the book and is a topic that the author has explored in previous work. Sepetys conveys a balanced examination of the era and the differing interpretations of events, showing us how silence can causes fear, anger and uncertainty. Spain's history is brought brutally and brilliantly alive in this authors hands. Sepetys has been outspoken in her view that Young Adults are often the best readers due to their passion and integrity and her audience have been gifted a gem in this tale exploring a hidden and underrepresented part of Europe and America's heritage. </p><p>Thanks to Ruta and to Nina for allowing me to be part of this blog tour. </p><p>The paperback of The Fountains of Silence is now available form Penguin Random House. </p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Lisa D, http://www.blogger.com/profile/17990194728330161897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2373013519897096915.post-7132696432956785612021-03-19T00:00:00.001+00:002021-03-19T00:00:00.176+00:00Kid; A History of the Future by Sebastian de Souza Blog Tour<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ-VPKGfY7hmgeE9m5ZNbOWg4r5SKEKUrmJfWTg1jnST45ce7UGwTM09fHMg_SdLlJ7rOtJY_LX0b1H4p19-6RcGXWUpAuPeT7iQqTjKmjdtfecm_nP_HHq9JvEeWp1NA9wtoUi4-_Didc/s1024/KID+Blog+Tour+banner+March+2021+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="576" data-original-width="1024" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ-VPKGfY7hmgeE9m5ZNbOWg4r5SKEKUrmJfWTg1jnST45ce7UGwTM09fHMg_SdLlJ7rOtJY_LX0b1H4p19-6RcGXWUpAuPeT7iQqTjKmjdtfecm_nP_HHq9JvEeWp1NA9wtoUi4-_Didc/w640-h360/KID+Blog+Tour+banner+March+2021+%25281%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>I am thrilled to be involved in the Blog Tour for Kid: A History of the Future; the first YA novel from actor, screenwriter and now, novelist Sebastian de Souza. This is a compelling and fast paced thriller set in 2078 as Joshua (Kid) Jones discovers that he can somehow communicate with the past. The world Kid lives in has been destroyed by pollution, several global pandemics and cataclysmic weather changes. Almost everyone lives in the online world, plugged in to the grid, their lives regulated and monitored by GNOSYS. But Josh lives in the Ghetto, he is an Offliner living in what used to be the Picadilly Circus Tube station. Their community is self sufficient but struggling and GNOSYS wants them out.</p><p>Kid is searching through the few things that his parents left him including an old i-phone; an antiquated piece of technology that once belonged to his Grandmother. He manages to send a message and is shocked when a 16 year old called Izzy replies but it soon becomes clear that Izzy is living just up the road in North London, but in 2021, during the first wave of the pandemics; the corona virus. Somehow Kid knows that he needs to ask Izzy for help, to stop the destruction, the devastation that is coming to London and to the World. Before it's too late. </p><p>Kid: A History of the Future is a powerful novel about activism, climate change and the danger of over-reliance on the online world. It's about being young and feeling powerless and also about standing up for what you believe in. The first in a powerful new trilogy from a writer of immense talent. </p><p>Thanks to Midas PR for the chance to be involved. Kid: A History of the Future is on sale now. </p>Lisa D, http://www.blogger.com/profile/17990194728330161897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2373013519897096915.post-77590035570580323022021-03-16T09:30:00.001+00:002021-03-16T09:30:06.002+00:00The Earl's Lady Geologist by Alissa Baxter Blog Tour<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJeNGn4R9YBcwslpakqwOEj2Ev2n647GtSydxS7fdJ549_hGzLpzAeK78KskyKWQWGYmCPjxy6MghT5FxcOUARDcPFAn5tpcOGhJm_Gu8njig4w6IaqK0ZQjCR3S-v5vuxMQ7yzHpDNcUp/s1125/The+Earl%2527s+Lady+Geologist_NEW+%25281%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="750" height="346" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJeNGn4R9YBcwslpakqwOEj2Ev2n647GtSydxS7fdJ549_hGzLpzAeK78KskyKWQWGYmCPjxy6MghT5FxcOUARDcPFAn5tpcOGhJm_Gu8njig4w6IaqK0ZQjCR3S-v5vuxMQ7yzHpDNcUp/w266-h346/The+Earl%2527s+Lady+Geologist_NEW+%25281%2529.jpg" width="266" /></a></div> <br /><p></p><p>Alissa Baxter's new novel is a delightful regency romance. The story features a young heroine; Cassandra with an interest in exploring the fossils, rocks and formations of the coast at Lyme Regis were she has lived with a rather controlling spinster aunt since her father's death. She counts Mary Anning amongst her friends. However as the end of her mourning period and the time for her coming out to London society approaches she is persuaded to stay with her uncle and other aunt in London. Cassy has no intention of hunting for a husband. She has enough inherited wealth to get by and no interest in pursuing romance or marriage. Her cousin through marriage Lord Rothbury although a recent acquaintance has quickly become a fixture in her life and although he initially appeared disapproving of her interest in fossil hunting in soon realises her excellent artistic talent and knowledge in the area and employs Cassy to do some illustrations for him. The two trade witty remarks and despite some misunderstandings romance blossoms. This is a delightful traditional regency romance novel that will appeal to fans of Harlequin, Mills and Boon and of course Jane Austen. </p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0dYWsFQCfltLU-NAequPT95zU-Az0TWm91eDmlCuyZR-QM9oeGv-eTEZOFyU7lCptVdvWPKZwTIfz4vcFx9OItDvbUXg66FrJ-mRBRHhcDlZeZp7KBv-0wwNGmgr7iTgPppplbKsoZyfH/s645/The+Earl%2527s+Lady+Geologist_Blog+Tour+Banner.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="413" data-original-width="645" height="311" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0dYWsFQCfltLU-NAequPT95zU-Az0TWm91eDmlCuyZR-QM9oeGv-eTEZOFyU7lCptVdvWPKZwTIfz4vcFx9OItDvbUXg66FrJ-mRBRHhcDlZeZp7KBv-0wwNGmgr7iTgPppplbKsoZyfH/w486-h311/The+Earl%2527s+Lady+Geologist_Blog+Tour+Banner.png" width="486" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p>Lisa D, http://www.blogger.com/profile/17990194728330161897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2373013519897096915.post-87631086111935957212021-03-16T00:00:00.001+00:002021-03-16T00:00:15.610+00:00The Steel Beneath The Silk by Patricia Bracewell Blog Tour<p><br /><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWy7hq16ec9DIyLtsBdaPx2SryKednewqjGrAAsGqm2X3LmDFQ43Ynbz3bQPWNFcIMv1h4o53efA98skJ4EXRJ3PbNS1FN04YIoHPqIWUHd3MFUPxFCNjV9kWjkSVwYW4kNzQDY6iatHc-/s600/The+Steel+Beneath+the+Silk.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="400" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWy7hq16ec9DIyLtsBdaPx2SryKednewqjGrAAsGqm2X3LmDFQ43Ynbz3bQPWNFcIMv1h4o53efA98skJ4EXRJ3PbNS1FN04YIoHPqIWUHd3MFUPxFCNjV9kWjkSVwYW4kNzQDY6iatHc-/s320/The+Steel+Beneath+the+Silk.jpg" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">The final book in Patricia Bracewell's Emma of Normandy trilogy is a glorious conclusion to this triumphant series. Emma is a fully rounded and utterly fascinating character. The wife and mother of Kings she is relegated to the margins of history but Patricia Bracewell has breathed life into this strong and intelligent woman and we see the politics, treachery and war of the 11th Century unfold through her eyes. Emma is a woman who is constantly watchful, her husband has little tolerance for her opinion, her stepsons are wary of her and she is a powerful protector of her own children. As </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-family: arial;">Æthelred's policies lead to division and the threat of war Emma must look to her own and her children's safety. Meanwhile the ever scheming Elgiva former mistress of the King and now the concubine of Cnut, son of the Danish King Swein Forkbeard has her own agenda and wishes to form a future for herself and her children. As war and Swein approach England, Emma must use all her wits to stay alive proving that she is indeed a woman made of steel. A historical novel perfect for fans of M.J. Porter, Bernard Cornwell and Joanna Courtney, </span></p><p><span style="color: #111111; font-family: arial;"><span style="background-color: white;">Find out more about the author and the book </span></span><a href="http://www.patriciabracewell.com/shadow-on-the-crown/the-steele-beneath-the-silk/">The Steel Beneath the Silk | Patricia Bracewell</a></p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-r2aHaRVEejYL2O3P4vVCDL-4jc25ZS-Z-KaH4OZBhbtqBcJcZG89W8HeyPRE84nsuEhyphenhyphenp1ExLgZcWPcImBuTYNBIKwKeptquiHwgYQ-yXQCk5gO_9-APuGWjlRK4WGBF-RJ-aFiu2HWt/s645/The+Steel+Beneath+the+Silk_Blog+Tour+Banner+%25281%2529.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="387" data-original-width="645" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-r2aHaRVEejYL2O3P4vVCDL-4jc25ZS-Z-KaH4OZBhbtqBcJcZG89W8HeyPRE84nsuEhyphenhyphenp1ExLgZcWPcImBuTYNBIKwKeptquiHwgYQ-yXQCk5gO_9-APuGWjlRK4WGBF-RJ-aFiu2HWt/w444-h288/The+Steel+Beneath+the+Silk_Blog+Tour+Banner+%25281%2529.png" width="444" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p>Lisa D, http://www.blogger.com/profile/17990194728330161897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2373013519897096915.post-76070203889763188262021-02-14T17:50:00.006+00:002021-02-14T17:52:51.405+00:00Thunder on the Moor by Andrea Matthews<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3Gz3QgqlQeCyHjtjvX7cr9qTZRbRvV1B0UjBparWS6xLkDbgSYpotyC5oN2tHts1MwOrQS7W-gDwev7QMjfT3JTiXWjVS5CJoSyM2H5yRu1Dw7rF-tkoXNC82L6P1a0ePrm2fIsCuI9bd/s600/Thunder+on+the+Moor_web.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="400" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3Gz3QgqlQeCyHjtjvX7cr9qTZRbRvV1B0UjBparWS6xLkDbgSYpotyC5oN2tHts1MwOrQS7W-gDwev7QMjfT3JTiXWjVS5CJoSyM2H5yRu1Dw7rF-tkoXNC82L6P1a0ePrm2fIsCuI9bd/w266-h400/Thunder+on+the+Moor_web.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>I am delighted to be opening the blog tour for Andrea Matthews Thunder on the Moor. Thunder on the Moor is a tale of time travelling father and daughter Robbie and Maggie Armstrong and their life in the Scottish borders in the Sixteenth Century. Twentieth century student Maggie has always loved her father's stories about Scottish border reivers, but when he reveals he actually hails from the Sixteenth century she cannot believe it. However when she and her father along with her friend Dylan and her godfather Edward Foster travel back to the 1530s she discovers that the past is both a beautiful and a dangerous place and the Armstrongs and Fosters are bitter enemies. Maggie quickly falls in love with her father's big family and all the various cousins, aunts and uncles, but then she's told that she's to be bethrothed to a near stranger; Ian Rutherford. Not wanting to cause offence to either her family or Ian's Maggie goes along with the idea until she meets a young man she recognises from a painting her father owned back in the Twentieth century, a man she has fantasised about many times, Will Foster; her family's bitter rival. Well researched and full of drama, romance and intrigue, This is a story that will appeal to fans of Diana Gabaldon, Christina Courtenay or Julia Quinn. Thanks to Amy at Historical Fiction Virtual Book Tours for a copy for review. </p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Thunder-Moor-Andrea-Matthews-ebook/dp/B07ZS7V3TB/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=thunder+on+the+moor&qid=1613323223&sr=8-1">Amazon UK</a> <a href="https://andrea-matthews.com/">Author Website</a> <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Thunder-Moor-Andrea-Matthews-ebook/dp/B07ZS7V3TB">Amazon US</a><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1sNjs9vX9Y5b9RMy_plZOnZlYThFCfK1DYtj_Tl5-kS8nyvYr6COkuw6TbCzNmbiEVv-g8-dQE70JbrjgUHEb_sz9lnsMWHKETb_6qua_GknKb_H30xT0gO5Uhs6IzM74tot68e5bpx3X/s645/Thunder+on+the+Moor_Blog+Tour+Banner.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="387" data-original-width="645" height="384" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1sNjs9vX9Y5b9RMy_plZOnZlYThFCfK1DYtj_Tl5-kS8nyvYr6COkuw6TbCzNmbiEVv-g8-dQE70JbrjgUHEb_sz9lnsMWHKETb_6qua_GknKb_H30xT0gO5Uhs6IzM74tot68e5bpx3X/w640-h384/Thunder+on+the+Moor_Blog+Tour+Banner.png" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p>Lisa D, http://www.blogger.com/profile/17990194728330161897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2373013519897096915.post-83934287969870324792021-02-04T23:52:00.003+00:002021-02-05T13:47:37.235+00:00A Net For Small Fishes by Lucy Jago<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0RmC9mxOOXwFdr4qw3Bju0cLg2T4XHv05h_m8h1X-UNtsAPRgCAtJ7o7B9nuUvfN65SEAviHD0rw4eOILtwDg_c7hqdoH0uHa1Ib9Yq0EMgeRa5fPM-8PFeoi0WWQTH8suglZYlWqJ7Ob/s338/a+net+for+small+fishes+1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="338" data-original-width="220" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0RmC9mxOOXwFdr4qw3Bju0cLg2T4XHv05h_m8h1X-UNtsAPRgCAtJ7o7B9nuUvfN65SEAviHD0rw4eOILtwDg_c7hqdoH0uHa1Ib9Yq0EMgeRa5fPM-8PFeoi0WWQTH8suglZYlWqJ7Ob/w260-h400/a+net+for+small+fishes+1.jpg" width="260" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>I am thrilled to be part of the Blog Tour for this outstanding novel. A Net for Small Fishes is based on a true story and set amongst the bickering, jealous and cruel court of James VI and I where gossip is currency and wealth is power. Frances Howard is a beautiful young woman forced to marry a cruel and sadistic man to restore her family's standing, for the Howards are Catholic and James is a man always looking over his shoulder for the next plot to destroy him. Anne Turner is the clever and ambitious wife of a doctor, desperate to be admitted to court life. The two women despite their disparity of age and social standing form a friendship rooted in a shared interest in fashion, gossip and potions and a shared desire for happiness with the men they love. However the two women's rise in court circles is observed by others such as Sir Thomas Overbury who refuses to hide his jealousy, suspicion and distrust of Anne and Frances. Soon they are caught up in scandal and accusations of witchcraft. The writing is superb, particularly in the portrayal of female friendship and frustration. The contrast between Anne's life which at times verges on destitution and Frances's lavish lifestyle are incredibly rendered but their emotional bond is at the centre of this story and it changes the historically accepted narrative which has painted Frances Howard as an evil seductress giving her a voice and a story. </p><p>Enchanting, fast paced and beautifully written, this book is a treasure. Published 4th February. </p><p>Thanks so much to Bloomsbury for my gifted copy. Find out more about the author here</p><p> <a href="https://lucyjago.com/">https://lucyjago.com/</a> </p><p>and about the book here</p><p> <a href="https://www.bloomsbury.com/uk/a-net-for-small-fishes-9781526616623/">https://www.bloomsbury.com/uk/a-net-for-small-fishes-9781526616623/</a></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfFp3viq35sE3YMb6UuODrymVauSWbgmxkegfee4Au1sJ0m528X0Hw7bodz0H7MQxUT2GQSP_D0iqJXIoIeY_gVRRLCOoG_9LZIQmZo0PB1nxOVGZ1WH_zdDhACb8sMSwlUJuA9NbvnEs5/s1024/A+Net+For+Small+Fishes.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="1024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfFp3viq35sE3YMb6UuODrymVauSWbgmxkegfee4Au1sJ0m528X0Hw7bodz0H7MQxUT2GQSP_D0iqJXIoIeY_gVRRLCOoG_9LZIQmZo0PB1nxOVGZ1WH_zdDhACb8sMSwlUJuA9NbvnEs5/w400-h400/A+Net+For+Small+Fishes.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p>Lisa D, http://www.blogger.com/profile/17990194728330161897noreply@blogger.com0