Tag Archives: Regency fiction

Spotlight On Regency Romance — The Lord And The Lady Astronomer

6 Nov

The Lord and the Lady Astronomer JustRead Blog + Review Tour

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for The Lord and the Lady Astronomer by Alissa Baxter, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About The Book

The Lord and the Lady Astronomer

Title: The Lord and the Lady Astronomer
Series: The Grantham Girls #3
Author: Alissa Baxter
Publisher: Dragonblade Publishing
Release Date: November 1, 2023
Genre: Regency/Historical Romance (Sweet, wholesome)

Can wishing upon a star ever come true?

Abigail Grantham has always taken a keen interest in astronomy since her brother Sir John Grantham enlisted her aid as a young girl to keep records of his astronomical discoveries. Abigail is delighted when her uncle, Lord Longmore, invites her to stay at Longmore Hall in Buckinghamshire as he needs her assistance to compile a star chart.

When Abigail arrives at the Hall, her Aunt Longmore introduces her to local society. However, Abigail also spends a great deal of time in her uncle’s observatory, viewing the night skies alongside her uncle’s neighbor, fellow astronomer William, Viscount Rochvale.

Lord Rochvale is intrigued by Abigail, and when he discovers that they share an interest in ancient buildings and Roman history, he contrives to become better acquainted with her away from her uncle’s observatory, taking her to places of archaeological interest with a view to winning her heart. But the astronomical project they are working on makes courtship difficult, and William’s plans are further frustrated by his rakish cousin Gerald Burnby, who becomes a frequent visitor to Longmore Hall, seeking out Abigail too.

After a valuable Roman urn disappears from Longmore Hall, a series of mysterious occurrences unravel, presenting a puzzle Abigail has no idea how to solve. However, when events escalate into peril, Abigail discovers that it is the night sky that holds the secret to the missing urn—as well as to her stolen heart.

Excerpt

Abigail traveled in the same carriage as Henrietta and Great-aunt Mildred, who seemed to shed a dozen years in as many minutes as she chatted in quite an animated fashion to her great-nieces, who sat across from her. “I always did enjoy charades,” she said as they bowled along. “Somehow, when one dresses up in character, it frees one from the role one assumes in everyday life. Last year I went as Anne Boleyn. I confess I was quite tearful by the end of the evening as I contemplated her imminent beheading. So, this year I decided it would be best to go as a shepherdess so that I could mind my own business . . . and my sheep of course.” She nodded in their direction.

“We’re your sheep, Great-aunt?” A laugh trembled in Henrietta’s voice as she looked across at the old lady.

“Well, more like my lambs, I suppose. But definitely in need of minding so pretty as you both are.” She turned her somewhat myopic gaze on Abigail. “In fact, your dear grandmama has asked me to ensure that you do not fall into any scrapes, dear, and I have assured her that I shall shepherd you to the best of my ability.” She appeared suddenly struck. “Shepherd . . . that must be why I chose this costume. It has been in the back of my mind all along.” She gave a slow nod. “Do assure me, Abigail, dear, that I shan’t end up as Little Bo-Peep by the end of the evening. Naiads may be free spirits, but I cannot have you drifting away.”

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | BookBub

More Books In This Series

About The Author

Alissa Baxter

Alissa Baxter wrote her first Regency romance during her long university holidays. After travelling the world, she settled down to write her second Regency novel, which was inspired by her time living on a country estate in England. Alissa then published two chick lit novels before returning to her favourite era with her Linfield Ladies Series, a trio of Regency romances that feature women in trend-setting roles who fall in love with men who embrace their trailblazing ways… at least eventually. Her new Dragonblade trilogy, The Grantham Girls, continues this inspiring theme.

Alissa currently lives in Johannesburg with her husband and two sons.

Connect with Alissa by visiting alissabaxter.com to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates.

Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will win a $25 Amazon gift card!

The Lord and the Lady Astronomer JustRead Tours giveaway

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight November 6, 2023 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on November 13, 2023. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

JustRead Publicity Tours

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Happy Release Day — Murder in Drury Lane

24 Oct

What’s better than a mystery? A historical mystery!

Regency-era mystery, Murder in Drury Lane by Vanessa Riley, is available today! Vanessa will be a participant in the book festival in my hometown in January. I’m currently reading one of her books now, and am looking forward to diving into more. Find out all the details of her latest below.

Offering “a vibrant picture of the roles Black and mixed‑race people played in Regency life” (Publishers Weekly), this unique historical mystery series, featuring a mixed-race heroine with a notorious past, will appeal to Bridgerton fans who want a sharper edge to their drama.

Pressed into a union of convenience, Lady Abigail Worthing knew better than to expect love. Her marriage to an absent lord does at least provide some comforts, including a box at the Drury Lane theater, owned by the playwright Richard Brinsley Sheridan. Abigail has always found respite at the theater, away from the ton’s judgmental stares and the risks of her own secret work to help the cause of abolition—and her fears that someone from her past wants her permanently silenced. But on one particular June evening everything collides, and the performance takes an unwelcome turn . . .
 
Onstage, a woman emits a scream of genuine terror. A man has been found dead in the prop room, stabbed through the heart. Abigail’s neighbor, Stapleton Henderson, is also in attendance, and the two rush backstage. The magistrate, keen to avoid bringing more attention to the case and making Lady Worthing more of a target, asks Abigail not to investigate. But she cannot resist, especially when the usually curmudgeonly Henderson offers his assistance.
 
Abigail soon discovers a tangled drama that rivals anything brought to the stage, involving gambling debts, a beautiful actress with a parade of suitors, and the very future of the Drury Lane theatre. For Abigail the case is complicated still further, for one suspect is a leading advocate for the cause dearest to her heart—the abolition of slavery within the British empire. Uncovering the truth always comes at a price. But this time, it may be far higher than she wishes to pay.

Vanessa Riley writes Regency Romances and Historical Fiction of dazzling multi-culture communities with powerful persons of color. Vanessa writes for historical romance readers who admire and acquire books that showcase women who find joy in sweeping kisses and strong sisterhoods. Even in the darkness, she promises to give you laughs and to show you how light always prevails and how love always, always wins.

Vanessa juggles mothering a teen, cooking for her military-man husband, and speaking at women’s and STEM events. She loves baking her Trinidadian grandma’s cake recipes and collecting Irish crochet lace. She’s known for her sweeping romances and humorous delivery of poignant truths. You can catch her writing from the comfort of her southern porch with a cup of Earl Grey tea.

You can find her at:

http://www.vanessariley.com

https://www.facebook.com/VanessaRileyAuthor

https://www.youtube.com/regencymaid

https://www.instagram.com/vanessarileyauthor

Sign up for her newsletter to get access to free stories, giveaways, and more at:

http://www.VanessaRiley.com

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Spotlight on Regency Romance — Garden of The Midnights

5 Oct

Welcome to the AustenProse blog tour of Garden of The Midnights, a Regency romance, by author Hannah Linder. Find out all about the book and the author below.

Title: Garden of the Midnights 

Author: Hannah Linder

Genre: Historical Romance, Historical Suspense, Regency Romance, Inspirational Fiction

Publisher: Barbour Books (October 1, 2023)

Length: (320) pages

Format: Trade Paperback, eBook, & audiobook 

ISBN: 978-1636094380

BOOK DESCRIPTION

The accidents are not a matter of chance. They are deliberate. As English gentleman William Kensley becomes aware of the danger at Rosenleigh Manor, he pleads for the truth of his past from the only man he can trust—until that man is murdered. 
 
As the secrets unfold into scandal, William’s world is tipped into destitution, leaving him penniless and alone. His only comfort is in the constant friendship and love of Isabella Gresham. If he does not have their nonsense at the seashore, their laughter, their reckless adventures, has he anything at all?
 
He should have known that would be ripped from him too. When a hidden foe arises from their acquaintances and imperils Isabella’s life, William may be the only one willing to risk his life to rescue her. But even if he frees Isabella from her captors, will he still have to forsake her heart? 

Some sacrifice everything for love. Others sacrifice love for everything else. In this haunting tale of rigid social prejudices and heart-aching regrets, the greatest decision of their life will be determined in the garden of the midnights. 

PRAISE FOR GARDEN OF THE MIDNIGHTS

  • “Hannah Linder’s engrossing new novel is taut with life-and-death danger, twisty turns, and sweet, forbidden romance. Garden of the Midnights is sure to keep you up late turning pages!”— Julie Klassen, bestselling author of The Sisters of Sea View
  • “A uniquely atmospheric novel, Garden of the Midnights intrigues from page one and never lets up. Readers will be swept away in the mystery and romance, and find themselves cheering for William and Isabella as they fight for their happily ever after. Hannah Linder’s newest is beautifully written and a wonderful fresh take on the genre. One not to be missed!”— Joanna Barker, author of A Heart Worth Stealing, A Game of Hearts, and Otherwise Engaged
  • “Unexpected twists and turns abound in this sweeping Regency suspense! Hannah Linder’s writing is reminiscent of Austen, with fresh storytelling that will keep you on the edge of your seat.”— Kasey Stockton, author of I’m Not Charlotte Lucas and the Bradwell Brothers series

PURCHASE LINKS

AMAZON | BARNES & NOBLE | PUBLISHER | BOOKSHOP | GOODREADS

Hannah Linder resides in the beautiful mountains of central West Virginia. Represented by Books & Such, she writes Regency romantic suspense novels filled with passion, secrets, and danger. She is a four-time Selah Award winner, a 2023 Carol Award semi-finalist, and a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW). 

Also, Hannah is an international and multi-award-winning graphic designer who specializes in professional book cover design. She designs for both traditional publishing houses and individual authors, including New York Times, USA Today, and international bestsellers. She is also a self-portrait photographer of historical fashion. 

When Hannah is not writing, she enjoys playing her instruments―piano, guitar, ukulele, and banjolele―songwriting, painting still life, walking in the rain, and sitting on the front porch of her 1800s farmhouse. Her next novel, The Girl from the Hidden Forest, is releasing on May 1, 2024.

WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK | PINTEREST | BOOKBUB | GOODREADS

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Spotlight On Regency Romance — The Baron And The Lady Chemist

10 Aug

The Baron and the Lady Chemist JustRead Blog + Review Tour

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for The Baron and the Lady Chemist by Alissa Baxter, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About The Book

The Baron and the Lady Chemist

Title: The Baron and the Lady Chemist
Series: The Grantham Girls #2
Author: Alissa Baxter
Publisher: Dragonblade Publishing
Release Date: August 3, 2023
Genre: Regency Romance (Sweet/Clean)

Their chemistry creates a chain reaction . . . but will love be the final result?

Dorothea Grantham has always been fascinated by chemistry and spends most days conducting experiments in her laboratory at Grantham Place, staining silk with gold, silver, and other metals using chemical processes.

Thea embroiders the beautiful gold and silver silk shawls she creates and enjoys wearing them, but her grandmother, Lady Longmore, advises her not to reveal to anyone outside the family circle that she has created the fashion items herself, concerned her granddaughter might be seen as an oddity.

When Thea enters Society, her shawls attract a great deal of attention and become the talk of the town. James, Lord Castleroy, takes a particular interest in her work, having inherited a share in his grandfather’s silk mill in Macclesfield.

Eager to invest in the ailing silk industry, the baron studies Miss Grantham’s silks with an admiring—and increasingly suspicious—eye, believing the fabrics to be smuggled imported silk. As he spends more time with the enterprising young lady, however, his interest in her quickly extends beyond his business affairs to engulf his guarded heart.

But Lord Castleroy isn’t the only person in London interested in Thea’s exquisite creations. And when a silken web of intrigue entangles her in real danger, Thea must trust the devotion of a man she never expected—or intended—to fall in love with.

Read Free in Kindle Unlimited!

Note: This series is part of Dragonblade’s Sweet Dreams line, so this is a sweet, wholesome Historical Romance where passion beyond the bedroom door is left to the reader’s imagination.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop | BookBub

Excerpt

“Merciful heavens!” Dorothea Grantham gazed in horror at her blazing hemline. Somehow the glass phial containing the phosphorus had burst, dropping onto the edge of her gown, setting it alight.

The air was too hot. Phosphorous was dangerous to work with when the temperature reached 86 degrees Fahrenheit. How foolish of her to forget that. She froze for only a moment, and then, with acrid smoke billowing around her, she raced to the wooden door and flung it open.

As Thea dashed outside, something hard and warm stopped her dead. She staggered backward, tilting her head to meet the gaze of a brown-haired, blue-eyed gentleman dressed in buckskin breeches and a wool hunt coat. 

He glanced at her burning skirts and, in one swift motion, pulled her down onto the ground and began to stamp it out. But the fire kept springing back to life. 

“Get some dirt to smother it.” She gasped. “It’s a phosphorous fire.”

 The gentleman grunted before plunging his gloved hands into the nearby vegetable patch and tossing some soil onto her skirts. Then, pressing down hard with his boots, he eventually doused the flames.

“Thank you.” She released a shaky breath. “I’m in your debt.”

A scowl descended upon his brow. “What the blazes were you doing in there?”

“Starting a blaze?” Her lips curved into a weak smile as she rose to her feet. He extended his hand, and she grasped it as she rose to her full height.



More Books in This Series

About The Author

Alissa Baxter wrote her first Regency romance during her long university holidays. After travelling the world, she settled down to write her second Regency novel, which was inspired by her time living on a country estate in England. Alissa then published two chick lit novels before returning to her favourite era with her Linfield Ladies Series, a trio of Regency romances that feature women in trend-setting roles who fall in love with men who embrace their trailblazing ways… at least eventually. Her new Dragonblade trilogy, The Grantham Girls, continues this inspiring theme.

Alissa currently lives in Johannesburg with her husband and two sons.

Connect with Alissa by visiting alissabaxter.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a $30 Amazon Gift Card!

The Baron and the Lady Chemist JustRead Tours giveaway

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight August 8, 2023 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on August 15, 2023. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

JustRead Publicity Tours

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My Friend Carrie Reviews — When Tomorrow Came

20 Jul

Today marks the last review by my book buddy Carrie for the Summer of 2023. She is a very busy wife, mother of 2, and a super teacher, so we will have to wait for more of her insightful reviews next summer. Thanks, Carrie, for helping a girl out!

Today Carrie shares her thoughts on When Tomorrow Came by Hannah Linder.

Nan and Heath Duncan, siblings abandoned by their papa and abused by their guardian, have no choice but to survive on the London streets. When a kind gentleman rescues Nan from such a life, the siblings are separated and raised in two vastly different social worlds. Just when both are beginning to flourish and years have healed some of their wounds, their long-awaited papa returns and reunites them—bringing demands with him. Nan is expected to marry a rich suitor she’s never liked, and Heath is expected to forsake his gentle spirit and become the hardened man his father always was.

Dangers unfold, secret love develops, fights ensue, and murder upsets the worlds Heath and Nan have built for themselves.

They’ve waited their whole lives for their papa to return, for tomorrow to come—but now that it has, will they be able to see through to the truth and end this whirlwind of a nightmare before it costs one of their lives? 

Hannah Linder resides in the beautiful mountains of central West Virginia. Represented by Books & Such, she writes Regency romantic suspense novels. She is a double 2021 Selah Award winner, a 2022 Selah Award winner, and a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW). In way of career, Hannah is a Graphic Design Associates Degree graduate who specializes in professional book cover design. She designs for both traditional publishing houses and individual authors, including New York Times, USA Today, National, and International bestsellers. She is also a local photographer and self-portrait photographer. When Hannah is not writing, she enjoys playing her instruments—piano, guitar, and ukulele—songwriting, painting still life, walking in the rain, and sitting on the front porch of her 1800s farmhouse. To follow her journey, visit hannahlinderbooks.com. 

Carrie’s Thoughts:

I really enjoyed Hannah Linder’s When Tomorrow Came. In this Regency novel, love, family, and restoration are common themes brought together with characters that are realistic and lovable from the start. Linder devoted time to developing the characters from an early age and on before diving into their lives as adults. I was invested from the beginning and wanted the very best for them.

The story begins in the early 1800s in London with siblings Nan and Heath Duncan and shows what life on the streets was like for them after their father disappeared. With an unfortunate accident, one act of kindness shows how it can change a life. Nan goes with a wealthy family while Heath chooses to stay behind on the streets. Linder fast-forwards several times to show how the siblings are faring in their different lives now separated, but keeps you interested and wanting more. Eventually, the siblings are reunited but struggle to connect, since they were raised so differently and had vastly different lives. Then their father returns, bringing with him turmoil for both their lives. He insists Nan marry for riches to someone she doesn’t like, let alone love. The why is mysterious. He tries to get Heath to leave the rectory life to take on a trade to become a man. With their father bringing turmoil to both of their lives, the story really begins and has many twists and turns that aren’t fully revealed until the end. You might think you know what is going on, but you also might be as surprised as I was too.

I love how When Tomorrow Came shows the power of trusting others and how it can affect your life. It also shows how not trusting can also impact a life. Family and what you will do to protect them is a theme throughout the book. Linder brings it all together in a wonderful way, leaving you feeling fulfilled with the book’s ending. I would read other books by her.

Recommended by Carrie!

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Book Review — The Late Mrs. Willoughby

29 May

The suspenseful sequel to The Murder of Mr. Wickham, which sees Jonathan Darcy and Juliet Tilney reunited, and with another mystery to solve: the dreadful poisoning of the scoundrel Willoughby’s new wife.

Catherine and Henry Tilney of Northanger Abbey are not entirely pleased to be sending their eligible young daughter Juliet out into the world again: the last house party she attended, at the home of the Knightleys, involved a murder—which Juliet helped solve. Particularly concerning is that she intends to visit her new friend Marianne Brandon, who’s returned home to Devonshire shrouded in fresh scandal—made more potent by the news that her former suitor, the rakish Mr. Willoughby, intends to take up residence at his local estate with his new bride.

Elizabeth and Fitzwilliam Darcy of Pemberley are thrilled that their eldest son, Jonathan—who, like his father, has not always been the most socially adept—has been invited to stay with his former schoolmate, John Willoughby. Jonathan himself is decidedly less taken with the notion of having to spend extended time under the roof of his old bully, but that all changes when he finds himself reunited with his fellow amateur sleuth, the radiant Miss Tilney. And when shortly thereafter, Willoughby’s new wife—whom he married for her fortune—dies horribly at the party meant to welcome her to town.

With rumors flying and Marianne—known to be both unstable and previously jilted by the dead woman’s newly made widower—under increased suspicion, Jonathan and Juliet must team up once more to uncover the murderer. But as they collect clues and close in on suspects, eerie incidents suggest that the killer may strike again, and that the pair are in far graver danger than they or their families could imagine.

PURCHASE LINKS

AMAZON | BARNES & NOBLE | BOOKSHOP | BOOKBUB | GOODREADS

PRAISE FOR THE LATE MRS. WILLOUGHBY

  • “An absolute page-turner full of well-plotted mystery and hints of simmering romance…. More of the Jane Austen characters we love (as well as those we love to hate).” —Mia P. Manansala, author of Arsenic and Adobo
  • ”Gray makes her endearing leads’ sleuthing both plausible and entertaining while evoking the wit and feel of Austen’s classic novels. Admirers of P.D. James’s Death Comes to Pemberley will be delighted.” —Publisher’s Weekly (starred review)
  • ”Absolutely delightful! Fans of Jane Austen and historical mysteries will fall in love with this series. Gray remains true to Austen’s style and intent for her beloved characters while still adding her own spin on them and their progeny—one that is both refreshing and absorbing. I’m already looking forward to the next installment.” —Anna Lee Huber, USA Today bestselling author of the Lady Darby series

Claudia Gray is the pseudonym of Amy Vincent. She is the writer of multiple young adult novels, including the Evernight series, the Firebird trilogy, and the Constellation trilogy. In addition, she’s written several Star Wars novels, such as Lost Stars and Bloodline, and Jane Austen-inspired series,A Mr. Darcy & Miss Tilney Mysteries. She makes her home in New Orleans with her husband Paul and assorted small dogs. 

WEBSITE | TWITTER | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | BOOKBUB | GOODREADS

My Impressions:

Jonathan Darcy and Juliet Tilney are back in a fun Austen-inspired Regency mystery, The Late Mrs. Willoughby by Claudia Gray. After a successful case in the first book in the series, The Murder of Mr. Wickham, the two are thrown together at a dinner party that goes terribly wrong. Willoughby is back in Barton with a new wife after his aunt’s passing. Still not liked very much, especially by his new bride, Willoughby makes life miserable for a number of characters. But it’s his wife that dies, not him. I guess a reader can’t always pick the victim. 😉 I have found this series delightful. I really like Austen knock-offs and the addition of a mystery makes it that much more fun. Numerous characters from Sense And Sensibility make an appearance — it is great to see how their lives could have progressed. Jonathan and Juliet are sweet characters. I especially like the quirkiness of Jonathan. He has many traits of autism, and I love his outlook on life, even if he struggles with the society of the day. There are plenty of twists in this book, and things aren’t always as they seem. The mystery is solved and the murderer is captured, but Jonathan and Juliet leave Barton with plenty of doubts about their relationship. Fortunately, Gray gives the reader some hints as to their future. Wonder who is next on Gray’s hit list?

Recommended.

Audience: Adults.

(Thanks to the publisher for a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)

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First Line Friday — When Tomorrow Came

28 Apr

Happy Friday, everyone! Today I am featuring a historical novel from Hannah Linder, When Tomorrow Came. This Regency romance looks like something I will love. I hope the opening line of the prologue piques your interest. It is repeated several times throughout, so it’s important!

Here’s the first line:

“All these years.”

They Waited Their Whole Lives for Their Papa to Return
 
Nan and Heath Duncan, siblings abandoned by their papa and abused by their guardian, have no choice but to survive on the London streets. When a kind gentleman rescues Nan from such a life, the siblings are separated and raised in two vastly different social worlds. Just when both are beginning to flourish and years have healed some of their wounds, their long-awaited papa returns and reunites them—bringing demands with him. Nan is expected to marry a rich suitor she’s never liked, and Heath is expected to forsake his gentle spirit and become the hardened man his father always was.

Dangers unfold, secret love develops, fights ensue, and murder upsets the worlds Heath and Nan have built for themselves.

They’ve waited their whole lives for their papa to return, for tomorrow to come—but now that it has, will they be able to see through to the truth and end this whirlwind of a nightmare before it costs one of their lives?   

Hannah Linder resides in the beautiful mountains of central West Virginia. Represented by Books & Such, she writes Regency romantic suspense novels. She is a double 2021 Selah Award winner, a 2022 Selah Award winner, and a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW). In way of career, Hannah is a Graphic Design Associates Degree graduate who specializes in professional book cover design. She designs for both traditional publishing houses and individual authors, including New York Times, USA Today, National, and International bestsellers. She is also a local photographer and self-portrait photographer. When Hannah is not writing, she enjoys playing her instruments—piano, guitar, and ukulele—songwriting, painting still life, walking in the rain, and sitting on the front porch of her 1800s farmhouse. To follow her journey, visit hannahlinderbooks.com. 

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Spotlight on Historical Romance — When Tomorrow Came

30 Mar

QUICK FACTS

  • Title: When Tomorrow Came: A Novel 
  • Author: Hannah Linder
  • Genre: Historical Romance, Historical Suspense, Regency Romance, Inspirational Fiction
  • Publisher: Barbour Books (April 1, 2023)
  • Length: (320) pages
  • Format: Trade Paperback, eBook, & audiobook 
  • ISBN: 978-1636094403
  • Tour Dates: March 27 – April 10, 2023

They Waited Their Whole Lives for Their Papa to Return

Nan and Heath Duncan, siblings abandoned by their papa and abused by their guardian, have no choice but to survive on the London streets. When a kind gentleman rescues Nan from such a life, the siblings are separated and raised in two vastly different social worlds. Just when both are beginning to flourish and years have healed some of their wounds, their long-awaited papa returns and reunites them–bringing demands with him. Nan is expected to marry a rich suitor she’s never liked, and Heath is expected to forsake his gentle spirit and become the hardened man his father always was. 

Dangers unfold, secret love develops, fights ensue, and murder upsets the worlds Heath and Nan have built for themselves. They’ve waited their whole lives for their papa to return, for tomorrow to come–but now that it has, will they be able to see through to the truth and end this whirlwind of a nightmare before it costs one of their lives?

PRAISE FOR WHEN TOMORROW CAME

  • “The plot is full of intrigue, and it’s anchored by complicated characters whose secrets are slowly, carefully revealed. Readers will be hooked.”— Publisher’s Weekly
  • “Filled with intrigue, heartache, love, and a cast of beloved characters…this unique story had me crying and cheering. I can’t wait to read her next book!”— Kimberley Woodhouse, bestselling author of the award-winning Secrets of the Canyon series
  • When Tomorrow Came captured my heart from the very beginning…All the characters were so endearing and the story line with mystery and suspense kept me up way too late.”— Dana Michael, Goodreads

EXCERPT

“Miss Duncan, please.” A hand circled her arm, tightened, started to tug. “Step aside and let the servants handle him.”

Handle him. As if Gilbert Stanhope were nothing more than a trinket to be moved to another shelf or a tapestry to be hung on a different wall or a—

“Nan.” The use of her forename jolted her, struck through some of the panic long enough to make her rise.

Lord Humphries drew her back. “Take him to one of the guest chambers on the east wing, men. Careful you do not jostle him.”

Jostle him. Her chest hammered. No, please do not jostle him.

Even when the manservants circled him, lifted him, he didn’t stir. His head dangled. Eyes remained shut. How long had they been like that?

“Let me go.” She pulled against the hold on her.

The servants passed through the doorway, disappeared.

“My lord, let me go—”

“Miss Duncan, do not take on hysterics.” Her ladyship, for the first time, finally

pushed from her chair. “You are forgetting yourself entirely. Sit down and calm down, if you please.”

“But I want to—”

“Nan, Mother is right.” Lord Humphries caught her shoulders, trapping her. “We have already sent for the apothecary, and there is very little you can do.”

“I want to be with him.”

“But it would only further upset you, my darling—”

“The only thing further upsetting me is your hands. Now will you please let me go?”

At the words, her ladyship inhaled a lungful of air, and Lord Humphries reddened by three shades. With an awkward apology, he walked away from her. “Of course, Miss Duncan. Forgive me. I was only attempting to calm you.”

With gathering tears, she fled through the same doorway the servants had exited. Big, empty, glittering halls. How thudding and severe fell her footfalls on marble so pristine. God, what is wrong?

She mounted mahogany stairs when a maid pointed her in the right direction. Up, up, up—but it took much longer than it ever should have.

Please, God.

She halted in a carpeted hall, approached the only door swung wide open. Three servants slipped out, no expression, finished with one duty and off to the next.

Then Nan entered.

He lay still upon a four-poster bed, an elderly maid already hovering close—but at the sight of Nan, she retreated to a corner chair and said nothing.

“Gil?”

His eyes adjusted on her, hazy, uncertain.

She pressed close to the bed and grasped his hand. “Gil, you are awake?”

“Yes.” Strange, how his voice could sound so normal when his face appearedso wan. “Yes, awake.”

“What is wrong?”

“Don’t. . .know.”

“Is there pain?”

“Burning.”

“Where?”

“Mouth. . .throat. Everything so . . . blurry and . . . and . . .”

“And what?”

Stared at her, stared hard.

“Gil?”

First, it was just a twitch, a faint jerk of his chest. Then his arms began to shake,his legs, everywhere.

“Gil!” Her scream summoned the maid to her side. They seized his arms.“Gil, please.”

Convulsing, half breathing, teeth jarring in a deathlike rhythm of pain. Just

as quickly, though, the writhing ceased. He lay limp as before. Didn’t move, hardly breathed.

Just looked at her.

“In the name of mercy, what is the matter with him?” She lifted his hand to

her chest, squeezed with the same devilish fear as when Heath would not wake up. “What is the matter?”

She hadn’t expected an answer, but a voice from close by whispered anyway. “I ’ave not seen this in a long time, miss.” The old maid reached out and mopped sweat from Gilbert’s brow. “An’ I had ’oped not to see it again.”

“What? Tell me, please. Why is he so ill?”

“Not ill, miss.” A disheartened sigh. “Poisoned.”

Chapter 15, pages 155-156

From When Tomorrow Came © 2023, Hannah Linder, published by Barbour Publishing, Inc.

PURCHASE LINKS

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Hannah Linder resides in the beautiful mountains of central West Virginia. Represented by Books & Such, she writes Regency romantic suspense novels. She is a double 2021 Selah Award winner, a 2022 Selah Award finalist, and a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW). Hannah is a Graphic Design associate degree graduate who specializes in professional book cover design. She designs for both traditional publishing houses and individual authors, including New York Times, USA Today, and international bestsellers. She is also a local photographer and a self-portrait photographer. When Hannah is not writing, she enjoys playing her instruments–piano, guitar, and ukulele–songwriting, painting still life, walking in the rain, and sitting on the front porch of her 1800s farmhouse. 

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Cover Reveal — A Winter By The Sea

2 Mar

I am so pleased to be a part of the cover reveal of A Winter by The Sea by Julie Klassen, a go-to historical romance author. This cover is stunning, isn’t it? The book will be released in December — just in time for holiday gift-giving. Get it on your wishlist now!

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Title: A Winter by the Sea

Series: On Devonshire Shores (Book 2) 

Author: Julie Klassen

Genre: Historical Romance, Regency Romance, Inspirational Fiction

Publisher: Bethany House Publishers (December 5, 2023)

Length: (448) pages

Format: Hardcover, Trade paperback, & eBook 

ISBN: 978-1250867551

When the Duke and Duchess of Kent rent neighboring Woolbrook Cottage for the winter, the Summers sisters are called upon to host three of the royal couple’s male staff in their seaside house. But they soon realize they’ve invited mysterious secrets and the sweet possibility of romance into their home.

Meanwhile, Emily Summers approaches a local publisher in hopes of fulfilling her dream of becoming an author. When he turns her down, his dashing competitor promises to consider her novel if she will first write a new Sidmouth guidebook for him. Emily accepts and begins researching with the help of the Duke of Kent’s handsome private secretary. But a surprise visitor from her past shows up at Sea View, leaving Emily torn between the desires she used to hold dear and her budding dreams for the future.

Return to the Devonshire coast with the Summers sisters, where loyalties are tested, secrets come to light, and new love emerges.

PURCHASE LINKS

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AUTHOR MESSAGE

Dear Readers,

I am excited to give you an insider’s look at my December 2023 novel, A Winter by the Sea. This is the second book in the On Devonshire Shores series. Book One, The Sisters of Sea View, has been enthusiastically received and reviewed. I am grateful for each of you who helped spread the word about it!

During my research, I learned that the Duke and Duchess of Kent and their baby daughter stayed in Woolbrook Cottage (very near fictional Sea View) during the winter of 1819-1820. I instantly knew I wanted to include them in the novel to give readers a glimpse of the early life of Queen Victoria and her parents. The royal party arrived with too many attendants to accommodate at Woolbrook, so some were lodged elsewhere. I thought it would be fun to have a few staff members stay at Sea View, including a pastry chef who invades their kitchen, a man in desperate straits, and the duke’s handsome private secretary.

It was also interesting to write a seaside novel set during wintertime (it was unusually cold and snowy that year). Because I live in frigid Minnesota, cold weather details and sensations were easy to imagine. 😊

When I began writing this series, I had not yet traveled to Sidmouth, where the series is set. I am happy to say I was able to visit in August 2022 and was thrilled to experience this delightful town in person. The highlight of that trip was meeting the staff and volunteers of the Sidmouth Museum who have been extremely helpful in answering research questions and checking setting details for me.

A Winter by the Sea focuses on beautiful Emily Summers, who finds herself caught up in two rivalries. First, while striving to further her writing aspirations, Emily is torn between her loyalty to a well-established publisher & bookseller and his flamboyant competitor. Second, despite her best intentions, she is attracted to one of their new guests, but an old love comes to town, determined to renew their courtship.

I hope you are eager to return with me to the English seaside for Book Two of the On Devonshire Shores series. Thank you for all you do to support my books, and readers everywhere! 

Gratefully, Julie

AUTHOR BIO

Julie Klassen loves all things Jane—Jane Eyre and Jane Austen. Her books have sold more than a million copies and she is a three-time recipient of the Christy Award for Historical Romance. She has also been honored with the Minnesota Book Award, Midwest Book Award, and Christian Retailing’s BEST Award. A graduate of the University of Illinois, Julie worked in publishing for sixteen years and now writes full time. She and her husband have two sons and live in St. Paul, Minnesota.

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Spotlight On Regency Romance — To Win Her Hand

28 Feb

I love a Regency romance! So I am excited to be spotlighting To Win Her Hand by Jen Geigle Johnson, the first book in A Gentleman’s Match series. Find out all about it below!

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ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: To Win Her Hand 

Series: A Gentleman’s Match (Book 1)

Author: Jen Geigle Johnson

Genre: Historical Romance, Regency Romance, Inspirational Fiction

Publisher: King’s Row Press (December 15, 2022)

An expert at winning a woman’s hand. A woman who cannot be won.

Lord Featherstone has the world on his shoulders. Or at least his world. With two brothers and a failing estate he must make funds somehow. But what happens when he falls for a woman? Will his tactics work when the situation is so close and personal?

Everyone thinks Lady Loveluck is a wealthy widow. What they don’t know is that she is on the brink of hiring herself out as a Governess in order to pay for her next meal. The only thing keeping her from employment is a growing reputation as a matchmaker. As long as she never falls for another man, as long as she doesn’t allow herself to be fooled into marrying, she will be just fine.

But she never counted on being caught up in the beguiling tactics of London’s renowned and not so secret matchmaker for men.

PRAISE FOR TO WIN HER HAND

  • “I loved the character growth, watching them learn more about the other’s heart and hardships, and the realization that perhaps they had more choices than they first thought. Such a sweet regency. I’m so grateful I had the chance to read this one.”— Makayla Branson, Reading Past Bedtime
  • “The house party, the quiet moments, the collection of other characters, and much more all combined together made this is delightful read.”— Julie Carpenter, Goodreads
  • “Two matchmakers with a wager. What fun for all! [A] heart touching story.”— Shauna Jones, Goodreads

PURCHASE LINKS

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AUTHOR BIO

Jen Geigle Johnson is an award-winning author, including the GOLD in Foreword INDIES Book of the Year Awards and LDSPMA Praiseworthy’s top award for Romance, 

Jen has more stories circulating in her brain than can possibly be told. She discovered her passion for England while kayaking on the Thames near London as a young teenager. History is her main jam. Her literary heroes include the greats: Jane Austen and Charles Dickens. But she has modern sensibilities as well. 

Six children and an inspiring husband keep her going and make certain she doesn’t stay glued to a keyboard or lost in obscure fascinating details of old castles. 

Now, she loves to share bits of history that might otherwise be forgotten. Whether in Regency England, the French Revolution, or Colonial America, her romance novels are much like life is supposed to be: full of adventure.

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