Romance is in the Air: Author Aubrey Wynne

A Wicked Earl's Widow by Aubrey Wynne

Eliza is forced into marriage with no idea her life will change for the better. Married less than a year, her unwilling rake of a husband is surprisingly kind to her—until his sudden death. The widowed Countess of Sunderland remains under her in-laws’ protection to raise her newborn daughter. But her abusive father is on the brink of financial ruin and has plans for another wedding.

Nathaniel, Viscount of Pendleton, gains his title at the age of 12. His kindly but shrewd estate manager becomes father and mentor, instilling in the boy an astute sense of responsibility and compassion for his tenants. Fifteen years later, his family urges him to visit London and seek a wife. The ideal doesn’t appeal to him, but his sense of duty tells him it is the next logical step.

Lord Pendleton stumbles upon Eliza on the road, defending an elderly woman against ruffians. After rescuing the exquisite damsel in distress, he finds himself smitten. But Nate soon realizes he must discover the dark secrets of her past to truly save the woman he loves.

 

“Another beautiful historical romance gem from Aubrey Wynne.” N.N. Light Book Reviews

“Well-crafted,engaging tale of loss and love.” Verified 5 star review

“A sweet, historical romance to brighten any heart. By the end, I was teary-eyed and touched by the story.” Goodreads Review

Nate scanned the outlying pastures and the one road leading through the countryside and into the village. An old woman hobbled along with a tall walking stick, a cloth bag slung over her shoulder. Even from this distance, he guessed it to be the old healer Mrs. Stanley collecting herbs. He gave her a quarterly allowance to tend to the poorer families in the village. The others paid her by coin or goods. Some of the tenants didn’t like her coal black eyes and thought her more witch than healer, but the closest physician was fifty miles away.
“How long did you say you were staying?” he asked, looking away from the road.
“A few days at the most. I’m on a business errand and headed to the weaving mill in Glasgow. My cousin wants to add cotton to the wool and flax production.” Gideon waved a hand toward the sheep. “My father says we have the raw materials we need and importing cotton will be less profit and more risk. I’m going in his stead to get the details and make a decision.”
“I don’t think I’ll ever be able to thank you enough for advising on that investment in the cloth factory. It was the beginning of our family’s return to society.” If he were a demonstrative man, Nate would give this man a bear hug. “Anything I can do to in return, remember I am always here.”
“Stop! It’s called friendship. I consider you one of the few men I can trust. Now, shall we go see what drink Maxwell has stored in the cupboard?” Gideon tossed the reins over his black gelding’s neck. “If we are very lucky, his wife will have some fresh bread butter pudding. That woman can do miracles in that tiny kitchen.”
“I’ll race you to the top of the hill just above the village.” Nate put a foot in the stirrup and then cursed as Gideon spurred his horse and took off. “You whey-faced scoundrel. Do you cheat at the tables too?” he yelled, jumping into the saddle and kicking his bay.
Nate gained on Gideon, who applied to the crop to his horse and pulled ahead once again. Both men broke a sweat along with their mounts as they crested the hill. A black coach, pulled by two pairs of grays, trotted along the road below. The village of Pendle did not get many visitors, especially in a fine carriage. It carried no crest and wasn’t the mail, so it poked Nate’s curiosity. Were they lost? Or were they heading to Pendleton Estate?
Ahead of the unidentified coach, Old Mrs. Stanley was still making her way slowly home. As she approached a patch of woods, two young men emerged and approached her. Nate eyes narrowed as he studied the duo. “Those two lads don’t look familiar.”
Mrs. Stanley flapped her hands at the newcomers and shook her head. The two males assumed a crouched position with their arms out at their sides and circled their prey, preventing escape. One man tried to grab her bag, and the feisty healer hit him in the head with her walking stick.
“Why those bloody footpads!” Nate dug his spurs into the gelding’s flanks and tore down the hill, Gideon close on his heels.
As they galloped down the hill, the carriage pulled to a stop. One of the assailants fled while the other turned his attention to the new arrivals and pulled a pistol. A woman in a deep blue velvet cape and bonnet emerged from the coach. A shot rang out and the driver grabbed his shoulder, dropping his whip. The woman snatched it from the ground, picked up her skirts, and ran toward the ruffians. To his shock, the slight female raised her arm and flicked the whip, slashing the scoundrel until he dropped his weapon. The driver of the coach must have been in shock also for he sat frozen in his high seat.
“By Christ, an avenging angel,” shouted Gideon from behind. “Who the devil is she?”
Nate had no idea, but by God he would find out. He only hoped she didn’t turn the whip on him.

 

Author Aubrey Wynne

Bestselling and award-winning author Aubrey Wynne is an elementary teacher by trade, champion of children and animals by conscience, and author by night. She resides in the Midwest with her husband, dogs, horses, mule, and barn cats. Obsessions include wine, history, travel, trail riding, and all things Christmas. Her Chicago Christmas series has received the Golden Quill, Aspen Gold, Heart of Excellence, and the Gayle Wilson Award of Excellence.

Aubrey’s first love is medieval romance but after dipping her toe in the Regency period in 2018 with the Wicked Earls’ Club, she was smitten. This inspired her spin-off series Once Upon a Widow. In 2020, she will launch the Scottish Regency series A MacNaughton Castle Romance with Dragonblade Novels.

Giveaway Details
$25 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash Giveaway

Ends 3/21/19

Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. This giveaway was organized by Kathy from Clean Wholesome Romance and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

 a Rafflecopter giveaway

Saved by the Movie Star by Michelle Pennington {Review}

Saved by the Movie Star by Michelle Pennington

Kindle Edition, 171 pages

Published February 10th 2019 

Source: I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.

 

    

 

She'll risk anything for the role of her dreams—anything but her heart.

Veronica Pantoni is a rising star in Hollywood, but her last movie came with unexpected consequences. When the movie’s A-list stars and real-life couple, Chris Sanderson and Kim Donnelly broke up, rumors that it was her fault went viral. It wasn’t fair. Despite her growing attraction to him, they’d been nothing but friends and professionals. No one will believe them, however, so the only thing she can do is wait for the scandal to be forgotten. When she's offered a chance at her dream role, she can't believe her good fortune—until she learns that Chris Sanderson will be her costar and love interest. Not only will it continue to fuel the rumors that haunt her life, she's not sure her heart can handle being so close to him again. Still, she just can’t turn it down.

Chris Sanderson knew the fallout from his break up with Kim would be rough, but he had no idea Veronica's name would get tangled up in the inevitable rumors. Maybe if they hadn't become such good friends and had such great chemistry, the rumors never would have started. But as bad as he feels, he's determined to make another movie with her because she brings out the best in him as an actor. He's tired of being seen as nothing but screen-candy and knows that she is his best chance at earning real respect as an actor. The only hard part will be remembering his oath to never get involved with a costar again. Especially when their chemistry begins to flame into something more.

But it isn't long before they discover that love isn't the biggest danger they'll have to face.

 

My Review: 5 Stars

 

Hollywood and its stars have always been so fascinating to me. I loved the vivid details surrounding the making of this film and the chemistry between the co-stars, Chris and Veronica, was off the charts. There are good parts to acting and bad parts and Veronica wants to focus on the good, but finds herself entangled in the bad in the midst of a very public breakup that honestly has nothing to do with her. But a new role lands her right in the arms (and heart) of Hollywood heartthrob (and part of the scandal equation), Chris Sanderson and it takes all of her willpower and acting skills to stay true to her craft.

The dashes of mystery and danger splashed throughout the story really added some flavor and made the romance that much better. I loved Veronica and wish I could really see her act in real life, especially as she brought out the best in Chris too. This movie sounds amazing--too bad it's not real.

I get why Chris and Veronica didn't want to give in to their chemistry, but wowza! It was sizzling hot (in a totally clean way) and set my heart aflame. I love the way this author brings her characters to life and sucks the reader right into the book. Great characters, great connections, and great story!

Content: mild, swoony romance; mild moments of danger/violence

Romance is in the Air: Author Donna K. Weaver

 

With the Magic by Donna K. Weaver

When Gareth Hildebrand travels from the year 1850 to a future time, he’s not expecting to fall in love.

As the eighth Earl of Kellworth, Gareth is accustomed to getting what he wants. Then he encounters a woman he suspects is from the future--a utopian future that he feels compelled to see. He intends to get what he wants, but it will involve dealing with fae magic. And that could lead to disaster--for his heart.

Dr. Catherine Ryan is drawn to the handsome guest at Twickenham Manor, with his odd combination of childish excitement and old eyes that have seen too much pain. She loses her heart to him before she discovers the truth of when he’s from. Now she faces the biggest decision of her life!

 

This book made me laugh a little then cry a lot, and then left me very happy. I love it when a book can do that - keep me up reading until 2:00 in the morning, yet feel like it was totally worth it! ~Teresa

I'll be honest, fantasy and time travel are not genres I usually read. Because of this, I was a little overwhelmed at the beginning, but eventually found myself sucked into the story and had a hard time putting it down. Gareth and Catherine are so sweet together. I love their give and take with one another. They complement each other so nicely. ~Melissa

This was so exciting and lovely how it all came together. I could see just how it all played out in my mind as I read. Excitement and danger was there, love and denial also. Two hearts brought together through time only for one to think they would bring the other down. Great ending and am looking forward to the next in the series. ~Lady the Owls

Whenever Catherine had observed anomalies at Twickenham Manor, they’d always seemed to come from upstairs. Since the first time Catherine had toured the house, she’d felt a pull to seek out whatever was up those stairs. She let out a breath; she should return to the ballroom.

The Americans were passing her, and the tall woman who’d been crying said something that sent a chill down Catherine’s spine.

“I can’t bear that they’re all dead now.”

Dead? The comment brought a macabre feel to the evening, and Catherine’s curiosity-itch flared. She peered at the stairs again with narrowed eyes; she had to investigate.

But, if Aunt Nellie were to discover Catherine up there, would she be banned from coming to Twickenham again? She reminded herself that “curiosity killed the cat.” In her mind, her grandmother’s voice finished the old adage, “But satisfaction brought him back.”

Still, Catherine needed to ask herself if the risk would be worth it. These balls had become the one bright spot in her life. If she were to lose them too . . .

Then the ever-present pull gave a stronger tug, the sense that there was something else going on and she must investigate. The American woman had said “they” were dead. Catherine was a doctor. Surely she had a responsibility to investigate.

Glancing to make sure she was alone, she picked up her skirts and began the climb. Winded by the time she reached the last landing before the fourth floor, she paused to catch her breath, vowing to start exercising regularly. Catherine had been blessed with a fast metabolism, so people were forever thinking she was fitter than she was.

She climbed the last flight. The hallway was unremarkable, lined with paintings. Listening for the sounds of movement, she examined the portraits as she went down the hallway. She heard nothing, and she didn’t smell blood.

One door stood open, so she let the tug lead her inside. The long room held nothing but more paintings. How odd. There were a few chairs scattered around, but it didn’t look like it was meant to be a regular gathering place for people to sit together and talk.

Most of the pictures were busts of individuals, but in the center of the room hung a large painting of five people, three women and two men. Catherine blinked. It was the Americans, and their painted images wore the same clothing the five had on tonight. She shivered.

The young man she’d danced with hadn’t attended the Regency immersion vacation, having only arrived that day. When had someone had time to paint him? She’d also never heard that Twickenham had an artist on staff.

She studied the rest of the pictures in the room. Some were dressed in Regency clothing, but there were many others that spanned several eras. The one with the Americans was the only picture of such a large group. Whoever had arranged the paintings lacked any sense of design, leaving large sections of the walls empty.

That pull came again, as though Catherine had a string attached to her chest that drew her. This time it was to a portrait of a man placed to the right of the one with the Americans. Catherine came to stand before his painting, wondering who he was.

He appeared to be a little older than she was with a few silver strands at his temples. He also had what she’d call a regal bearing. She worked with enough surgeons and specialists who were used to being in charge, and this man had that look about him. He also wore an expression of someone with a fierce determination, the type of man people would steer clear of.

Catherine stepped closer to the painting. Behind the force of will that he projected, he had pain etched on his face. Her heart ached for him. What had happened to mark him that way?

 

Author Donna Weaver

Award-winning author-wife-mother-grandmother-Army veteran-karate black belt-Harry Potter nerd-online gamer.

Giveaway Details
$25 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash Giveaway

Ends 3/20/19

Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. This giveaway was organized by Kathy from Clean Wholesome Romance and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.


a Rafflecopter giveaway

Romancing His Rival (Accidentally Yours #3) by Jennifer Shirk {Review}

Romancing His Rival by Jennifer Shirk

ebook, 200 pages

Published February 11th 2019 by Entangled Publishing, LLC (Bliss) 

Source: I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.

    

Hopeless romantic Elena Mason doesn’t often hate people, but she hates her ex-fiancé’s insufferable best man, Lucas Albright III. She just knows Lucas is the one who talked her ex out of getting married—so Lucas is clearly the cause of all her problems.

And now she’s expected to work with him? Oh, heck no.

Lucas Albright wants nothing more than to make partner at his advertising firm, and he knows he works best alone. But then Elena ends up as his partner on an account that could win him a promotion. He had a great reason to end her engagement, not that she’d ever believe him. Still, he’s willing to try working as a team.

Unfortunately, his new “partner” wants him dead.

Elena knows she’s going to have to give in and work with her nemesis, though nobody said it had to be easy for him. But what happens when fighting starts feeling a whole lot like falling in love?

My Review: 4 Stars

They say the closest feeling to hatred is love and that's just how it seems for Elena. She's in love with love and all things sentimental, especially because her parents had such a fairy tale romance. She wants her happily-every-after to pattern exactly after theirs and when her fiance breaks up with her, she blames his best friend, Lucas. In fact, she hates him, and we all know what that means.

Elena is quite uptight about her ideals and rigid with her rules, yet as the story progresses, she does become more likable. Of course, Lucas is her opposite. His intentional teasing, easy going manner, and blatant flirting make him a delicious character. 

I loved the ebb and flow of this story. The romance was sweet and put a smile on my face, but my favorite thing was watching the rose colored glasses come off of these characters. They each had dreams and expectations, but life experiences revealed reality, which was so perfect.

Content: mild romance (kissing); mild-moderate language