#Holiday release Brides of Christmas Volume I Anthology #Twrp

ISBN Digital: 978-1-5092-0555-4

ISBN Print: 978-1-5092-0505-9

Page Count: 226

Word Count: 56687

Rating: Sensual

Enjoy these wonderful stories in time for Christmas.

There’s time to read and relax with The Twelve Brides of Christmas

Big on Christmas by Jan Romes

Cassie Newman left L.A. with a secret and finds herself in Woodstock, Vermont – a town rich with Christmas tradition. She tries to forget the world she knew, but the small-town charm makes her even more aware of the life she never had.
Luke Stennett doesn’t have time for relationships. Things are starting to go right but he has a secret of his own that could potentially turn everything upside down.
Once their secrets are revealed, will it kill the chemistry and send Cassie back to LA? Or will she fight for her happiness and stay firmly planted in a place big on Christmas?

Late for the Wedding by Barbara Edwards

Despite an impending nor’easter, Heather Green sets out for her twin sister’s wedding with the dress, cake, and favors. As the snow piles up, she wrecks her car in an accident.
Driving a tow truck, Nicholas Burnes has the task of helping Heather. When the storm closes the roads, he ends up offering her shelter. Warm and rested, Nick and Heather explore their attraction to each other, only to part when he delivers her to her sister’s wedding. But weddings breed weddings…

Till the World Is Safe for Dreams by Fleeta Cunningham

Dreams were put on hold when the bombs hit Pearl Harbor, including Kay and Jeremy’s wedding plans. Now he’s half a world away, and Kay is spending her days in a war plant, forging bonds with other women who worry and wait. Then she receives the news that Jeremy has life threatening injuries. Will he come back? If he does, will he be the same? Will the world ever be safe for dreams?

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Bang the Drummer by Desiree Holt: 12 Brides of Christmas

Bang the Drummer – a new way to celebrate Christmas

With Christmas practically right around the corner, I wanted to share a taste of my newest Christmas story. Bang the Drummer is part of The 12 Brides of Christmas from The Wild Rose Press

Spicy version of 12 drummers drumming!

A Recommended Read from All Romance eBooks

One lucky person will win a copy of this book. Just leave me a comment with your favorite Christmas memory, plus             your email. I’ll pick the winner late tonight.

https://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-bangthedrummer-1660807-149.html

http://www.amazon.com/Bang-Drummer-Twelve-Brides-Christmas-ebook/dp/B00OFEPG38/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1415317244&sr=1-1&keywords=Bang+the+Drummer

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/bang-the-drummer-desiree-holt/1120677833?ean=2940150354234

http://store.kobobooks.com/en-US/ebook/bang-the-drummer

https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/bang-the-drummer/id933517575?mt=11

Jill Kennedy has plans for a Christmas wedding. She’s put down deposits for the flowers, photos, and venue. Now all she needs is a groom. A drummer who’ll keep her life as steady as he keeps the beat to his music. With her good friend Charlie Costello as her wingman, she’ll interview percussionists, one per month until she finds the right tempo. But with Christmas approaching and no groom in sight, she’s starting to wonder if she’ll ever bang the drummer of her dreams.

Excerpt:

Jill Kennedy curled up on her couch studying her iPad, frowning. Her Christmas tree still twinkled in the corner although the holiday was long past. Coldplay’s latest CD bumped its tunes out from her iPod docking station. The last of her Christmas candles flicked in glass holders on the coffee table, filling the room with the scent of pine and cranberry. She should be feeling mellow, but instead her nerves were jumping and a headache was creeping slowly up from the nape of her neck.

Charlie Costello lounged next to her, sock feet resting on her coffee table, his hands tapping a steady rhythm on his thighs in time to the song.

Jill tucked a strand of her shoulder-length sable-colored hair behind her ear as she studied the information on the iPad screen.

“I think I’ve got everything taken care of. Booked the Creekside Winery. Ordered the decorations. Set up a tasting for the food and Stella’s designing the wedding cake.” She glanced up at Charlie. “Why are you looking at me in that strange way?”

He gave her his familiar lop-sided grin. “You are the only woman I know who plans and pays for her wedding without knowing who the groom is.”

She flipped a hand at him. “I’ll have one by then. It’s in the plan. You know.”

He threw back his head and laughed. “Yeah, I love your interview process. You aren’t even dating anyone right now.”

“Because look how poor my choices were in that arena, right?”

He snorted. “So this is better? Tell me how?”

Jill pulled up another memo on her iPad. “Okay. I have a list.”

“A list? This I gotta hear. Lay it on me.”

If she didn’t need his help so badly, she would have smacked him. “It’s very specific. I asked around about different drummers in different bands and narrowed it down to the twelve most likely prospects. You know. Twelve drummers drumming, for Christmas.”

“Like a grocery list,” he teased.

“No, Charlie.” Damn him! “Like an interview process for a job.”

“Is that what this is, kitten? A job?”

“It’s a lifetime commitment,” she sniffed. She wished he’d just let her get on with this. All these questions were making her have tiny doubts about the wisdom of her decision. She gave herself a mental shake. “I’ll do one a month until I hit on the right one. The exact right one. First I check out their musical talent and their band history.”

Charlie gave a roar of laughter. “Because that’s such a requirement for stability?”

“Because it has to be a drummer so I need his performance history,” she snapped.

“Maybe it’s a different kind of performance you should be worrying about.”

“That comes later. After the phone calls and the coffee dates to see how he is in person and match our likes and dislikes.”

“Coffee dates?” He cocked an eyebrow. “Not even a romantic dinner?”

She wanted to sling the iPad at him. “I’ve been that route, remember? The whole nine yards, and what did I get? A bunch of losers. No, I’m doing this like a project for work. As a systems analyst, she knew the importance of things being able to mesh on a practical basis. ”

So you’re going to interview these bozos and then—what?”

“Drummers,” she told him. “Interviewing drummers.”

He cocked his head. “And that’s why?”

“I told you.” She blew out a breath of exasperation. “Drummers have the best beat. The best tempo. They’re the heart of the band.” She grinned. “And have the best rhythm in bed.”

Referred to by USA Today as the Nora Roberts of erotic romance, Desiree Holt is the world’s oldest living published erotic romance author. A graduate of the University of Michigan her earlier careers include agent and manager in the music industry, public television, associate vice president of university advancement, public relations, and economic development.

She is three times a finalist for an EPIC E-Book Award (and a winner in 2014), a nominee for a Romantic Times Reviewers Choice Award, winner of the first 5 Heart Sweetheart of the Year Award at The Romance Studio as well as twice a CAPA Award winner for best BDSM book of the year, winner of the Ellora’s Cave Golden Ankh and winner of the Holt Medallion for Excellence in Romance Literature.

She has been featured on CBS Sunday Morning and in The Village Voice, The Daily Beast, USA Today, The (London) Daily Mail, The New Delhi Times, The Huffington Post and numerous other national and international publications. Currently she has signed on as a blogger for The Huffington Post. She is also the Authors After Dark 2014 Author of the Year.

“Desiree Holt is the most amazing erotica author of our time and each story is more fulfilling then the last.” (Romance Junkies)

“Holt knows what her fans will love.”

(RT Book Reviews)

“Holt delivers with delicious love scenes, a believable story and characters you care about. “

RT Book Reviews

“Well-written erotica filled with modern-day cowboys.—John Rodzilla, Emerson Univ., Boston The Library Journal

“Desiree Holt delivers smoking hot alpha heroes and red hot romances.” Lea Franczak, USA Today Happy Ever After blog.

“I have read many stories by this author and she never disappoints. She knows how to bring out the best in her characters that help you connect with them.”

Romancing the Book

“Ride the Mustang by Desiree Holt is everything you come to expect from Ms. Holt.”

Sizzling Hot Reads

Learn more about her and her novels here:

www.desireeholt.com

www.desiremeonly.com

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www.facebook.com/desire01holt

Twitter @desireeholt

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Contact Desiree at

desireeholt@desireeholt.com

Piper’s Piping by Dylan Newton 12 Brides of Christmas

Thank you so much for hosting me today for the awesome “12 Brides of Christmas” Author Spotlight! In my book, Piper’s Piping, my werewolf heroine (much as I have always wanted to do!!) travels to Ireland for the holidays. But as with much of Aribella’s life, her long-awaited honeymoon doesn’t quite turn out the way she planned!

For a chance to win a FREE e-copy of “Piper’s Piping”—my holiday story with a werewolf twist—comment below with your answer to my holiday question:

If you could go anywhere for the holidays, where would you go and why?

I can’t wait to hear where you’d go, and because I’m a writer—I’m curious as to WHY you’d choose that location! We writers always need to know the backstory! ☺ I will be choosing one random comment by noon tomorrow for that FREE e-copy, so scroll down and comment below!

Here’s a little bit about my book, Piper’s Piping, including an excerpt and some buy links for you! Thanks again for stopping by, and don’t forget to comment for a chance to WIN!!! ☺

 

“Piper’s Piping” Blurb: 

Werewolf Aribella Lupari-Gray is on her long-awaited honeymoon. Or at least, that was the plan. When she and Mason land in Ireland just before Christmas, their dream holiday turns into a nightmare: the pack’s werewolf children have all vanished.

To top it off, the werewolf king—who was supposed to sanctify Ari’s marriage to a human—is away searching for the missing pups and may not return in time to grant his official blessing, jeopardizing her family’s future status within the pack.

If things don’t change fast, there may not even be a marriage to bless. Ari’s desire to help puts her life—and her relationship with Mason—in jeopardy.

With Mason gone, presumably back to the States and Christmas on the doorstep, Ari sets out on one final mission to find the lost pups. Her life and the pack’s young in the balance, will Ari be able to perform a holiday miracle or will she die trying?

“Piper’s Piping” Excerpt:

Ari unfolded the note, and glitter cascaded down from the folds.

“Santa loves sparkly things,” Keeva said, anxiously eyeing the lost glitter. “So after I wrote my Christmas list, I outlined it in red and green glitter. See?”

Ari’s smile faded as she scanned the child’s crayoned letter.

Dear Santa,

Can you please find my cousins for Christmas? Even Phaedra, but do not give her candy, as she is not a good sharer. 

I know you won’t have room in your sleigh for toys with all those kids, so you don’t have to give me anything else. But maybe you can fit a kitten in your pocket? Mum says no way can a werewolf have a cat, but if you bring one she will have to say yes.

Thank you,

Keeva Carney

P.S. I like black kittens best.

Ari carefully refolded the paper, and Keeva stuffed it into her stocking once more.

“Mum said Santa is busy Christmas Eve, but if that’s all I ask for, he’ll bring them back. He won’t let them miss Christmas, right?” Keeva looked up at Ari.

Ruffling the girl’s ginger hair, Ari mustered a smile. “When a good girl asks Santa for something, how can he resist?”

As Keeva scampered to the kitchen for dinner, Ari stared fixedly at the festive decorations.

Santa was in way over his mythical head.

Buy Links for Piper’s Piping:

Amazon.com (Piper’s Piping):

http://amzn.com/B00OI0AYJU

Wild Rose Press for Dylan Newton (all books):

http://www.wildrosepublishing.com/maincatalog_v151/index.php?main_page=index&manufacturers_id=762

 

Author Bio:

Dylan Newton was born and raised in a small town in Upstate New York where the local library was her favorite hang-out. Despite earning a degree in English Literature, Dylan spent more than a decade sidetracked by an executive position in corporate America where she swears she contracted testosterone poisoning. After leaving, she dedicated herself to more estrogen-rich passions, like motherhood, writing romance novels and her never-ending quest for the perfect date night.

Dylan married her high-school sweetheart and they are busy living out their own happily ever after in sunny Florida with their two incredible daughters.

Visit Dylan at www.DylanNewton.com or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/DylanNewtonAuthor

The Tenth Suitor by Laura Strickland : 12 Brides of Christmas

Please welcome my guest Laura Strickland and author of  The Tenth Suitor: The Twelve Brides of Christmas Book Ten

Genre: Historical Romance

Blurb:

When Edwina Armstrong’s father invites ten titled lords to spend Christmas at his estate so Edwina may choose one for a husband, she finds the idea romantic. She dreams of gazing into the eyes of one of her suitors and falling deep in love. But it soon becomes apparent the lords in question are far more interested in gaining her father’s estate than Edwina’s hand.

Thorstan’s in attendance but he hasn’t been invited and he’s no lord. A former mercenary, he’s come disguised as a fool to get near Edwina, long adored from afar.  Edwina quickly falls for his charm and quirky humor even though she fears her father will never approve of a commoner for her husband.  But when Edwina is abducted, only Thorstan—a skilled swordsman— has hope of rescuing her in time for the promised Christmas wedding.

Excerpt:

Edwina quickened her steps, and the fool drew her arm more closely against his side.  Oh, highly improper, but at the moment she did not care.

A guard stood at the gate.  Edwina nodded to him, and they passed into the chill of the evening, and a wash of moonlight.

A stone wall lay to the left; Edwina urged her escort there and drew a deep draught of air.  “You are right, Lord Fool.  Much better.”

“’Lord Fool’?” he questioned, his mouth beside her ear.

“If you can call me ‘lady,’, I can call you ‘lord.’.”  She turned her head and found her face very near his.  Aye, most improper – but it was such a luxury to be with a man taller than she.

Too bad he was just a fool.

He leaned on the wall beside her.  “My fool’s wisdom tells me you are not enjoying this great pageant staged for your benefit.”

“That I am not.”

“Yet I hear there is much gaiety and frolic yet to come–a play, and even a masked dance.”

“Aye.  Perhaps you can attend as a fool.”

“Perhaps I will.  If I do, will you dance with me?”  He caught both her hands and, in true fool’s fashion, whirled her about in the cold air until her breath came fast and she laughed aloud.  Edwina could no longer hear the music from inside, but the fool hummed a tune in a deep, velvety voice.  The moonlight flickered around them, striping his face in brightness and then shadow until all she could see was the laughter in his eyes.  When they came to rest at last, she leaned against him.

“You should laugh more often,” he said.  “It makes you even more beautiful.”

Suddenly Edwina felt breathless from more than the whirling dance.

Buy links:

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Tenth-Suitor-Twelve-Brides-Christmas-ebook/dp/B00OFAM3JW/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1414942086&sr=1-1&keywords=The+Tenth+Suitor

Barnes and Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-tenth-suitor-laura-strickland/1120674789?ean=2940150723146

The Wild Rose Press: http://www.wildrosepublishing.com/maincatalog_v151/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=242_176_138&products_id=5912

All Romance Books: https://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-thetenthsuitor-1660806-161.html

Author Web Page: www.laurastricklandbooks.com

Author Amazon Page: http://www.amazon.com/Laura-Strickland/e/B001KHSACW/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1414942330&sr=1-2-ent

Faeire Faith by Silver James: 12 Brides of Christmas

Please welcome Silver James author of Faerie Faith

Thank you so much for hosting me today for the fantastic “12 Brides of Christmas” Author Spotlight! In my book, FAERIE FAITH, Abhean, the Fae Harper, has been exiled to the mortal realm and stripped of his memory and his magic. He’s now a street musician in New York City during the Christmas holidays. With so many great Christmas movies set in NYC, I’ve always wanted to experience Christmas in the Big Apple.

For a chance to win a FREE e-copy of FAERIE FAITH—my magical holiday story—comment below with your answer to my holiday question:

If you could go to NYC during the Christmas season, what one thing would be on your Must Do List? Macy’s Christmas Parade? The Rockettes? Ice skating at Rockefeller Center? And because I’m a writer, I want to know why your chose this activity. Don’t forget to leave a comment for a chance to win. You must also leave your email address in your comment so I can contact you if you win! I’ll randomly select a winner on Christmas Eve so make sure I have your emails!

Here’s a little bit about my book, FAERIE FAITH, including an excerpt and the places where you can find it. Thanks again for stopping by, and don’t forget to comment for a chance to WIN!!!

FAERIE FAITH Blurb: 

Abhean, the fae Harper, is exiled to the mortal realm until he finds the other half of his heart. As Venn McLyre, the NYC street musician, he has no memory of his true nature—or his magic. When he steps in to save reluctant bride, Gwyneth Riley, he could lose more than his heart—he could lose his immortality.

Socialite Gwyn Riley is resigned to marrying Sumner Barrett, son of her mother’s best friend. A marriage based on duty to family and convenience, she has no pretensions about love. It takes the magic touch of a poor musician to open her heart to the possibilities. When three couples arrive to remind Venn of his identity, he has only moments to stop Gwyn’s wedding. Is he too late, or will the King of Tir Nan Óg step in to grant Abhean and Gywn their own happy ever after? 

FAERIE FAITH Excerpt:

Hours stretched into days, and finally, Venn could stand it no longer. He grabbed his duffel stuffed with instruments and headed out. He would drown his sorrow in music. He would fill the air with laments until the

whole city’s heart broke and the people wept with him. He caught the subway, traveling close to Times Square before he de-trained. The crowds here were good, filled with holiday cheer. The trains ran on a schedule that gave him time for a song between. He took up his station between the platform and the turnstiles. Setting out his copper pot, he withdrew the soft fiddle case from his duffel and pulled out his violin. After a few tweaks, he pulled his bow across the strings. People paused. He flexed his fingers and began to play.

Notes ripped from the depths of his soul filled the air, each one dripping a tear. His hair flew around his face as he coaxed the tune from wood and string. The violin wailed, baring Venn’s tortured soul. Then it wept but offered no consolation for his loss. Gwyn. Her name was both a prayer and a curse on the tip of his tongue. How could one woman bring him to the depths of despair? He’d sworn never to love, but he’d had no choice. She stole into his heart, surrounding its darkness with light and sweetness, with sunset hair and Galway blue eyes.

He finished the song, one dredged from his soul, on a last sighing note. Silence thundered in his ears. A woman stepped forward, tears streaking her perfect makeup. She dropped money in his pot and moved on.

Buy Links for FAERIE FAITH:

Buy from <a href=”http://smile.amazon.com/Faerie-Faith-Twelve-Brides-Christmas-ebook/dp/B00OFBHFR6/&#8221; target=”_blank”>Amazon</a> | <a href=”http://www.wildrosepublishing.com/maincatalog_v151/index.php?main_page=product_info&amp;cPath=242_177_139&amp;products_id=5917&#8243; target=”_blank”>Wild Rose Press</a> | <a href=”https://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-faeriefaith-1671861-143.html&#8221; target=”_blank”>All Romance</a> and mark it <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/23524964-faerie-faith&#8221; target=”_blank”>WANT TO READ on Goodreads

PLEASE NOTE ALL LINKS ARE SET UP IN HTML CODE. YOU SHOULD BE ABLE TO JUST COPY AND PASTE INTO YOUR WORDPRESS OR BLOGGER POST. AND PLEASE DON’T COPY THIS PART – LOL

Author Bio:

Silver James likes to take walks on the dark side and coffee. Okay. She loves coffee. LOTS of coffee. Warning: Her Muse, Iffy, runs with scissors and can be quite dangerous. She’s the author of two award-winning urban fantasy series, Moonstruck and The Penumbra Papers. She’s been a military officer’s wife, mother, state appellate court marshal, airport rescue firefighter and forensic fire photographer, crime analyst, technical crime scene investigator, and writer of magic and mystery. Now retired from the “real world,” she lives in Oklahoma and spends her days at the computer with two Newfoundland dogs, the cat who rules them all, and myriad characters all clamoring for attention. She writes dark paranormal thrillers, time travel romance, and sexy contemporary romance. To find out more about Silver, visit her at www.silverjames.com, like her on <a href=”https://www.facebook.com/pages/Silver-James/122400874477832&#8243; target=”_blank”>FACEBOOK</a>, or follow her infrequent tweets at <a href=”https://twitter.com/SilverJames_&#8221; target=”_blank”>@SilverJames_.</a> You can also sign up for <a href=”http://silverjames.us9.list-manage1.com/subscribe?u=130d3aa0f4c2ec7850db5a814&id=f23c64a294&#8243; target=”_blank”>SILVER’S NEWSLETTER</a> by clicking.

A Case for Calamity by Mackenzie Crowne:12 Brides of Christmas

Hearing more about A Case for Calamity by Mackenzie Crowne

Blurb:

For Jane Whitmore, agreeing to switch identities with her best friend seems like innocent fun, but spending a romantic night in Paris with a man who doesn’t know her real name turns out to be a lark gone bad. When their one night of passion proves to have lasting results, tracking down Gabe Sutton and telling him he’s about to be the father of her child is just another calamity Jane would rather avoid. After years of avoiding long-term romantic entanglements, Gabe has found a woman he might just be able to build a life with, only to have her disappear. When he finally finds her, his belief in happily-ever-after staggers under the weight of deception, and looming fatherhood leaves him with two choices: fight her for custody of his future child or cling to the promise of true love.

Excerpt:

“He doesn’t even know my name. What am I supposed to do? Walk up to him and say, ‘Hi Gabe. I’m the chick who tricked you into believing I was Michael Austin’s daughter two months ago in Paris. Oh, and by the way, I’m having your baby?’”

“I was thinking more along the lines of, ‘Hi, Gabe. I’m the chick who snuck out of your hotel room in Paris before you could say Good morning, beautiful. By the way, I had a really good time—and six orgasms. Oh, and I’m having your baby. Want to get a pizza?’”

Jane laughed at Shae’s cheeky grin, then shoved her fingers through her hair. “Right. That’ll work.”

“I googled him. You’re right. He’s hawt! He left his number that morning in Paris.” She smiled slyly. “It’s in my phone. You should call him.”

Jane snorted. “I don’t think giving Gabe Sutton a booty call would be a good idea. Besides, I’m on a sabbatical from men.”

Shae waggled her brows. “What’s that old saying? When you fall off a horse, you need to climb right back on?”

Mac’s Question: Solid lights or colors?

 

I prefer solid white lights these days but we simple had to have colors when my boys were little. They proclaimed solid light trees boring. ☺

Giveaway: I’ll be gifting an e-copy of one of my TWRP titles to three separate winners chosen randomly from all commenters. Winners’ choice.

Buy links: The Wild Rose Press Amazon Kobo

Barnes & Noble

Mac’s links:

TheWildRosePressAuthorPage

Amazon Author Page

mackenziecrowne.com

FaceBook Author Page

Twitter @maccrowne

Goodreads

Author bio:

Wife, mother and really young grandmother, Mac lives with her high school sweet heart husband, a neurotic Pomeranian, and a blind cat. She calls Phoenix home because the southwest feeds her soul. Though her friends claim she’s a princess, she disagrees. After all, one can’t raise two rambunctious boys to wonderful men without getting a little dirt under their nails. A lover of the romance genre, her resolve to share her stories with others was sharpened by a bout with breast cancer. Today she is an award-winning, multi-published author and seven year survivor, living the dream.

Seven Swans Bride by Donna Dalton: 12 Brides of Christmas

Promo Kit for Seven Swans Bride—Post on Dec. 19, 2014

Question and my Answer for Blog Posts, including Giveaway Information—simply cut and paste the below directly into your blog post:

Thank you so much for hosting me today for the “12 Brides of Christmas” Author Spotlight! My book, “Seven Swans Bride” is the seventh stanza of the Twelve Days of Christmas which includes seven swans a’ swimming – and of course a bride. This sweet historical romance is set just after the American civil war.

For a chance to win a FREE e-copy of “Seven Swans Bride” comment below with your answer to my holiday question. I will be choosing one random comment by noon EDST tomorrow, so scroll down and leave a comment!

Do you have any holiday traditions that have been passed down through the years from generation to generation? If so, I’d love to hear about them. If not, just list a tradition you’d like to see started.

Here’s a little bit about my book, “Seven Swans Bride”, including an excerpt and some buy links for you! Thanks again for stopping by, and don’t forget to comment for a chance to WIN!!! ☺

Seven Swans Bride Blurb:

Family comes first for Abigail Whitlock. She’ll do anything to make it home to Seven Swans in time for Christmas and to attend her sister’s wedding – even if it means braving unforgiving mountainous terrain, fickle winter weather, and a captivating escort who threatens to steal her heart.

Country and duty come before all else for Major Evander Holt. He’s scheduled to arrive at his new assignment by year’s end, but a rockslide, a wily politician, and a headstrong, impetuous lady put his travel plans on hold. He doesn’t need to come to her rescue, and he certainly doesn’t need to fall in love with her. But there’s something about Abigail he can’t resist…even if it means risking his career.

Seven Swans Bride Excerpt:

Evander moved into the station house and closed the door behind him. Passengers littered the floor like routed soldiers, some sitting on trunks, others standing in small groups, their faces creased with apprehension. Even the children were subdued. The sudden cessation of their trip had everyone battle-shocked.

On the other side of the room near the ticket counter, Miss Whitlock and Congressman Jones had their gazes locked on him. One looked as though she’d swallowed a dose of castor oil. The other wore a satisfied grin. Were those expressions for him? Neither was particularly welcoming.

Miss Whitlock broke off her stare and fiddled with her crooked hat feather. Hair the color of sun-ripened wheat poured out from beneath her hat and framed her pretty face now flushed a charming shade of pink. He couldn’t see her eyes from across the distance, but he recalled their intensity as he held her close after the sudden braking of the train. They were deep blue, like a bottomless ocean, one a less sentient man might drown in.

Buy links:

The Wild Rose Press:

http://www.wildrosepublishing.com/maincatalog_v151/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=241_172_249&products_id=5916

Amazon:

http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss_1?url=node%3D154606011&field-keywords=seven+swans+bride

Author BIO:

Donna Dalton  uses the rich history of her home state of Virginia and the American Civil War to create action-packed, emotional romances. Her favorite pastime is to tour the many battlefields and museums and bring those places to life in her stories. She has four full-length historical novels published with The Wild Rose Press as well as several contemporary short stories. You can visit her at www.donnadalton.net or on facebook at https://www.facebook.com/DonnaDaltonbooks

Six Geese for Monica by Brenda Gayle: 12 Brides of Christmas

Welcome Brenda Gayle author of  Six Geese for Monica

Thank you so much for hosting me today. I love Christmas stories, so when The Wild Rose Press asked me to contribute to its Twelve Brides of Christmas anthology, I jumped at the opportunity. What could be more wonderful than a series that involves brides, Christmas, and one of the “gifts” of the famous Twelve Days of Christmas song? Of course, I hadn’t fully realized considered that I’d have to work “six geese a-laying” into my plot, but that just made it more fun.

For a chance to win a FREE e-copy of Six Geese for Monica let me know: What is a typical Christmas meal at your home? 

I’ll start: Turkey is an absolute essential at my Christmas table. I’ve tried to convince my family to be adventurous and try ham or goose (which would be very awkward this year), but they’ll have none of it. In addition, there’s usually mashed potatoes, green beans, and a squash/carrot casserole. Dessert is generally an assortment of baking my mother has provided, as well as a heated Christmas pudding with a decadent hard sauce (essentially an excuse to eat pure sugar blended with a rich cream).

Here’s a little bit about Six Geese for Monica, including an excerpt and some buy links for you. Thanks again for stopping by today and please come back tomorrow to meet another Twelve Brides author. And, of course, don’t forget to comment for a chance to win the book. I’ll be randomly picking one comment tomorrow.

Six Geese for Monica Blurb:

Seven years ago Monica Stevens left her home town with no intention of returning. Her inability to conceive a child not only devastated her fifteen-year marriage, it made her doubt her appeal as a woman. When her mother has to undergo surgery, she reluctantly agrees to come back and run the Mother Goose Daycare.

Luke Donovan is struggling to balance his career with his duties as a single father to six adopted children. The death of his wife has thrown the adoption of their two youngest sons into limbo. He is further stymied by a dogmatic social worker who questions whether a single parent can adequately care for so many children.

Initially brought together by the children, Monica and Luke quickly surrender to their growing passion. But when she learns about the threatened adoption, Monica wonders if Luke’s interest in her is only as a mother to his children. Is history about to repeat itself, or will a Christmas miracle finally give Monica the family she’s always dreamed of having?

Six Geese for Monica Excerpt:

“Gotta love the Internet. There’s a music stream for every situation.” He took a step toward her and held out his hand. “Wanna dance?”

Monica allowed the music to move through her as she and Luke danced through Culture Club, Olivia Newton-John’s “Physical,” and Hall and Oates’ “Maneater.” She hadn’t heard this music in years and it brought back feelings of being young and free, and a sense of the wild abandon she’d experienced on the high school dance floor.

The mood shifted as the attic filled with the first strains of “Sailing” by Christopher Cross. That, too, brought back high school memories of those awkward moments when you didn’t know if the boy you were dancing with was willing to slow dance with you or if he was going to abandon you on the dance floor.

Luke didn’t hesitate. He wrapped both arms around her waist as if it was the most natural thing in the world. She reached up to encircle his neck, and rested her head against his chest. She could hear his heart beating, steady and firm. He was steady and firm. He smelled wonderful, a mixture of his woodsy aftershave with the softly sweet scent of the soap used by both him and his children.

He was a good dancer, his moves confident and clear. It was obviously something he’d done a lot of. Jeff hadn’t liked to dance—typical jock—and she’d missed it during their time together—and after. How long since she’d been held on a dance floor? Or not on the dance floor, for that matter?

A good dancer. A good husband. A good father. Why couldn’t she have met Luke, or someone like him, twenty years ago?

Buy Links: 

Amazon Kindle: http://www.amazon.com/Geese-Monica-Twelve-Brides-Christmas-ebook/dp/B00OQECIJM

The Wild Rose Press (all books): http://www.wildrosepublishing.com/maincatalog_v151/index.php?main_page=index&manufacturers_id=494

Author Bio:

I’ve been a writer all my life but returned to my love of fiction after more than 20 years in the world of corporate communications—although some might argue there is plenty of opportunity for fiction-writing there, too. I have a Master’s degree in journalism and an undergraduate degree in psychology. A fan of many genres, I am drawn to contemporary romance and enjoy creating deeply emotional stories with elements of mystery and suspense.

I live in eastern Ontario (Canada) with my wonderful husband, two fabulous children, a rescued cat, two Siberian Huskies, and assorted aquatic wildlife. You can connect with me through my website at www.BrendaGayle.com, Facebook, Twitter, or Goodreads.

The Mystery of the Claddagh Rings (Twelve Brides of Christmas Book 5) by Kallie Lane

The Mystery of the Claddagh Rings (Twelve Brides of Christmas Book 5)

Welcome to my blog, KallieLane

Blurb:

Worried about her family, Fiona returns home to find her mother in danger when the Claddagh rings resurface along with the hit men searching for them. Approached by an FBI agent who offers to protect her in exchange for the rings, she must decide—trust a mysterious stranger who is not all he seems. Or go it alone and lose everything…maybe even her life.

Under pressure to retrieve the rings, Agent O’Shea is willing to do whatever it takes to get the job done, even if it means putting Fiona in the crossfire. He never imagines her strength and spirit will touch his heart, leaving him with a choice—give in to his desire for her or ignore the danger she’s in to clear his father’s name.

As they join forces to beat the odds, will he be able to keep her safe…or will he surrender to the legacy of the Claddagh rings and let her go?

I loved writing this short story. Fiona’s celebrity mother attracts danger like a moth to a flame. Her former indiscretion has far reaching consequences, plunging Fiona headfirst into danger…and straight into the arms of Special Agent Ryan O’Shea. Fiona’s loyalty is divided between her mother and Ryan. Ryan’s allegiance wavers between Fiona and the case he must solve. The Claddagh rings hold the secret to millions intended to fund a terrorist organization—a treasure the old guard IRA is willing to kill to possess. Now it’s up to Ryan to protect Fiona while keeping his eye on the prize.

A digital copy of this book will be given away on December 24th. Please leave a comment on this site along with your email address for a chance to win!  

Book Links:

Amazon http://amzn.to/1w1gDLf

B&N http://bit.ly/1yMq5Cj

Chapters/Indigo http://bit.ly/1u2XUMn

The Wild Rose Press http://bit.ly/1zjr7bn

About the Author:

Kallie Lane writes suspenseful romantic fiction with a touch of humor to lighten the dark moments. She understands the rough edges of alpha males and loves to write about them, helping them find the women who complete them in every way that matters. She excels at hard hitting action and complex relationships that end with the heroine and hero building a life together.

Kallie loves to write stories with realistic characters, intricate plots, and happy endings. With her Shadow Soldier series, she has had the pleasure of meeting many military men who fit the bill. And while she loves doing extensive research, many of the locations and perils in her stories stem from personal experience. The isolated cottage in Dark Abandon is her own, her boating disasters serving as inspiration for her heroine’s. Her recent release, Reckless Abandon, takes place at a rodeo where she spent much of her time. She was thrilled when the novel was rated Best Book by Long and Short Reviews.

Kallie lives in Canada, was born and raised there, and loves winter in the cool blue North.  Ever the optimist, she claims a hot toddy by the fire can work wonders after dragging oneself through snowdrifts and -45C degree temperatures. The perfect setting for hatching romantic suspense novels.

To learn more about Kallie, visit her website at http://www.kallielane.com/ or follow her on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/KallieLaneAuthor or Twitter at https://twitter.com/KallieLane.

“Til the World is Safe for Dreams by Fleeta Cunningham: 12 Brides of Christmas

Please welcome Fleeta Cunningham author of “til the World is Safe for Dreams. 

Thank you so much for hosting me today for the “12 Brides of Christmas” Author Spotlight! My book, “Till the World is Safe for Dreams” is the third stanza of the Twelve Days of Christmas which includes three French hens—and a World War II bride. It’s a sweet story set in the turbulent days of 1942.

 

 

For a chance to win a FREE e-copy of “Till the World is Safe for Dreams” comment below with your memory of a Christmas when things just didn’t work out the way you planned. I will be choosing one random comment by 6:00 p.m. Central Time tomorrow, so leave a comment! Thanks again for stopping by, and please leave your comments.

Here’s a little about the story including an excerpt and some buy links:

Till the World is Safe for Dreams–blurb

A lot of dreams were put on hold when bombs hit Pearl Harbor, including Kay and Jeremy’s wedding plans. Now he’s half a world away, injured, and Kay is hiding her worry about his wounds from her meddlesome grandmother and aunts who disregard the realities of war and are determined to plan a fairytale wedding. Kay is carrying on, spending her days in a war plant, forging bonds with other women who worry and wait. The she hears—Jeremy’s injuries are serious, life threatening. Will he come back? If he does, will he be the same? Will the world ever be safe for dreams?

Excerpt

 

 

Buy Links for TILL THE WORLD IS SAFE FOR DREAMS

http://www.amazon.com/World-Dreams-Twelve-Brides-Christmas-ebook/dp/B00OWLKC8S/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1418098501&sr=8-2&keywords=fleeta+cunninghamAmazon.com (Till the World is Safe for Dreams)

The Wild Rose Press for Fleeta Cunningham

http://www.wildrosepublishing.com/maincatalog_v151/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=241_172_249&products_id=5935

QUESTION

In “Till the World is Safe for Dreams”, you often mention rationing and the shortages the folks at home faced during World War II. How did families manage Christmas with so many staples of holiday cooking rationed?

During the war, everyone faced hard times with ingenuity and ‘make-do’ determination. Women with small children were hard pressed to create a holiday meal for their families. And finding a way for Santa to bring presents to the children was no easy task. Newspaper columns, like the one Kay’s mother writes in the story, offered special recipes, making use of every substitute, so some flavor of the holidays was maintained. Sugar was scarce and so was coffee. But honey and molasses were available so many cake and candy recipes used them to replace sugar. Most homes had a small “Victory Garden”, often converted from a flowerbed to a vegetable patch, and home canning kept meals healthy and colorful. Though meat was rationed, chicken wasn’t, and many a festive meal featured a baked hen as the main course. On Christmas Eve, not many stockings were filled with candy, but an orange was a special treat. Many a little girl was thrilled to have a rag doll, created from the odds and ends from her mother’s scrap bag. Fortunate was the boy who received a homemade set of bow and arrows constructed in Grandpa’s garage.

If you really want to try living on the rations of 1942, here’s a typical week’s provisions for one adult (children would be apportioned half as much):

Weekly ration for 1 adult

• Bacon & Ham 4 oz
• Meat to the value of 1 shilling and sixpence (around about 1/2 lb minced beef)
• Butter 2 oz
• Cheese 2 oz
• Margarine 4 oz
• Cooking fat 4 oz
• Milk 3 pints
• Sugar 8 oz
• Preserves 1 lb every 2 months
• Tea 2 oz
• Eggs 1 fresh egg per week
• Sweets/Candy 12 oz every 4 weeks

You might want to try the cake Kay’s aunt created for Christmas; here’s the recipe.

Sugarless, Eggless Cake

3/4 c. molasses
1/4 c. oil
1 1/4 c. flour
*1 c. corn flour
1 c. milk
4 tsp. baking powder
2 tsp. cinnamon
1/4 tsp. cloves
1 c. raisins

*Grind corn meal until it is fine as flour.

Beat molasses and oil. Add flours and milk, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, and cloves, stirring just until smooth. Add raisins. Pour into loaf pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 60 minutes.

Christmas didn’t work out quite the way Kay and her family expected. Maybe you had one that had an unexpected twist, too. Tell us about it and you might win a copy of “Till the World is Safe for Dreams”. Look forward to hearing from you.

Author BIO

A fifth generation Texan, Fleeta Cunningham has lived in a number of small Texas towns. Drawing on all of them, she created Santa Rita and its inhabitants. After a career as a law librarian for a major Texas law firm, writing a monthly column for a professional newsletter and other legal publications, she returned to her home in Central Texas to write full time. Along the way, she and her mother had a successful wedding design business, numbering celebrity weddings and ‘unique’ events in their twenty-five years of partnership. Fleeta has been writing in one form or another since the age of eight. When she isn’t writing, she teaches creative writing classes, serves as the wedding coordinator for her church and keeps house for her feline roommates. Her other musings can be found at http://www.authorsbymoonlight.com or her website http://www.fleetacunningham.com. She loves to hear from readers. The Santa Rita Series includes DON’T CALL ME DARLIN’, BLACK RAIN RISING, ELOPEMENT FOR ONE, HALF PAST MOURNING, and CRY AGAINST THE WIND. The first book in her new series Confronting Destiny, BAL MASQUE, was released earlier this year. Her story “Help Wanted: WIFE” was named Book of the Month by Long and Short Reviews.