Sunday, January 31, 2016

February Recommendation: The Unlikely Lady

In an effort to dig my way through my TBR pile, which I'm determined to approach 'in order', I recently reached a book that I've been looking forward to reading ever since I received it at the RT convention in Texas last year. It's The Unlikely Lady by Valerie Bowman, whose writing is just as much fun as she is. In fact, this is probably the funniest romance novel I've ever read!!! I Absolutely LOVED it! So, so good!!! So, if you'd like a romance novel that's bound to put you in a good mood, I suggest that you give this one a try. As for me, I'm going to stock up on more of Valerie's books :)


 

FOR THE BACHELOR AND THE BLUESTOCKING…
Certain that no man wants a bluestocking for a wife, Miss Jane Lowndes is careful to wield her books and her spectacles as weapons against matrimony. Convincing her ambitious mama that she's content to stay a spinster is easier said than done, however. It's a good thing Jane is not above a bit of manufactured scandal if it will keep her from the altar, and the argumentative, contrary Lord Garrett Upton…

ROMANCE IS NEVER BY THE BOOK

With the war over, Garrett is determined to enjoy his bachelor's life while he can, even when it means attending a house party in celebration of a friend's wedding―and suffering Jane's notorious disdain. But when a masquerade ball leads to a mistaken kiss, he's surprised to learn that Jane's bookish exterior hides a truly passionate soul. When two such headstrong people are determined to remain unattached, can love lead to a happy ending?




Saturday, January 30, 2016

Storyfinds Author Spotlight - His Scandalous Kiss

I'm on Storyfinds today with the first chapter of His Scandalous Kiss!!! So if you'd like to take a sneak peak at this Phantom of the Opera inspired romance, please step on over.
I'll get you started below :)

Chapter One

Thorncliff Manor, 1820
A gentle breeze stirred the air, carrying with it the smooth murmur of violins as Richard gazed out over the terrace of Thorncliff Manor. The grand estate and guesthouse where his parents and siblings had chosen to spend the summer while their own home was being renovated, sat solidly at his back—a welcome retreat for those who were wealthy enough to afford it. Standing to one side, Richard watched the guests, their gemstones scattering the torchlight while feathers bowed and swayed.
Although they wore masks, he was able to recognize a few of those present. Certainly, he had seen many of them from his bedroom window since arriving at Thorncliff a few weeks earlier. But there were those whose acquaintance he’d never had the pleasure of, like the young ladies who’d made their debuts since 1815—a year he would not soon forget. In any event, it was a long time since he’d spoken to any of these people. Some, he reflected, had been friends once . . . His heart beat slowly, dulled by the lead that now flowed through his veins. 

Thursday, January 28, 2016

Historical Romance Movies Online

A while back I posted about historical romance movies available online (for FREE) for those of you who subscribe to Hulu, Netflix and Amazon Prime. After spotting the Keira Knightly version of Pride and Prejudice, I realized that it was time for an update. And now I see that Anna Karenina is there too!!! The reviews for that one aren't very good but I'll definitely have to watch it anyway - especially with Keira Knightly and Jude Law starring.
Unfortunately I cannot include any links to these movies as you have to sign into your individual accounts, but it will give you something to search for and enjoy during the cold winter season :)
So, without further ado, here are my 'free for subscribers' recommendations:

On Netflix

Pride And Prejudice - 2005


Mansfield Park - 1999

Monday, January 25, 2016

Introducing - His Scandalous Kiss

You can't imagine how difficult it has been for me not to post about this book after I saw the amazing cover the Avon art department had created for me with the help of artist James Griffin. But, it was added by online retailers when The Earl's Complete Surrender was approaching release, and I didn't want to take focus away from that book.
So...Finally, I present to you my next release, His Scandalous Kiss, which will go on sale on July 26th 2016.


Isn't it stunning? I just love the red dress and the night-time setting. Yes, the night-time setting is so very appropriate for this book since much of this book takes place after ten in the evening. Why? Well, it's a Phantom of the Opera inspired romance starring a wounded hero (Richard Heartly, whom you may recall from Lady Sarah's Sinful Desire), a heroine who sings like an angel, and a secret cave below Thorncliff's foundations. There's adventure, a creepy villain, the threat of scandal, a duel (but of course!), and a conflict so great that it will take serious insight, understanding and forgiveness for the hero and heroine to overcome.




Blurb

Thorncliff Manor is the perfect setting for a masquerade ball . . . where the heart’s secret desires are about to be uncovered in this scintillating Regency romance from Sophie Barnes
Richard Heartly has exiled himself from society since the war, plotting his revenge for a terrible betrayal. A masked ball at Thorncliff Manor is intended to be a brief diversion. Instead, he encounters a fascinating young woman as entranced by the music as he is. He can’t reveal his identity to Lady Mary. But her siren song keeps drawing him back, and their clandestine meetings could be hazardous to his plan—and to her virtue . . .
Avoiding an unwanted marriage was easy when Lady Mary was ignored by the ton. Thanks to her dazzling appearance at the masquerade, she’s a wallflower no longer. Eligible suitors abound, yet the only man she wants is the brooding, seductive companion who keeps his face hidden. A man who tempts her to disclose her own shocking secret, one that could divide them forever . . .

Friday, January 22, 2016

Goodreads Giveaway - The Earl's Complete Surrender - One SIGNED copy available

Goodreads Book Giveaway

The Earl's Complete Surrender by Sophie Barnes

The Earl's Complete Surrender

by Sophie Barnes

Giveaway ends January 30, 2016.

See the giveaway details at Goodreads.

Enter Giveaway

Wednesday, January 20, 2016

Fresh Pick for January 20th, 2016


The Earl's Complete Surrender has been selected as the Fresh Pick for January 20th, 2016!!! Naturally, I am beyond thrilled :) What an awesome way to start the day!


"An exciting Regency tale of danger and passion"

"Sometimes Surrender Leads To Victory"

Check out the post and reviews HERE



Tuesday, January 19, 2016

The Earl's Complete Surrender - Quote

I think we can all agree with this statement - taken from a conversation with Chloe Heartly



Grab your copy on Amazon and read the whole story. It "...delivers everything historical romance readers crave, including vividly etched characters, an involving plot shot through with intrigue and danger, and plenty of passionate romance." - Booklist 

Monday, January 18, 2016

This week's book bundle giveaway

Happy Monday everyone! It's time to get started with this week's giveaway :) There are five identical book bundles ready to be won  (please see picture below). I'll pick the winners at random today through Friday and post the results on my Facebook Page on Saturday. Please comment on the original post if you'd like to be included in this drawing - I will not be following shares. U.S. ONLY unfortunately - apologies to international readers.
Also: this giveaway is in no wa sponsored, endorsed or administered by Facebook. I hereby release Facebook of any liability.
To see the post, click HERE



Saturday, January 16, 2016

Writing mistakes, positive characters and a bit about His Scandalous Kiss

I cannot believe that it's already been four years since my first novel, How Miss Rutherford Got Her Groove Back went on sale. Since then, I've had nine other releases, transitioning from ebook/print on demand, to full on print. There have been a slew of blog tours, giveaways and signings, during which I've learned a great many things. I've also grown as an author, becoming increasingly aware of what my strengths and weaknesses are.
When I wrote How Miss Rutherford Got Her Groove Back, the character point of views were dancing all over the pages. Why? Because I wanted the reader to know what everyone was thinking! I've since found other ways of achieving that goal. Of showing rather than telling and of taking advantage of the fact that the reader doesn't always have to know what everyone is thinking.
Writing dialogue is one of my favorite things to do, so this has now become my most important weapon. After all, it flows more naturally if a character talks about their emotions and thoughts rather than the writer explaining what they are - an obvious observation perhaps, but a trap that many aspiring authors often fall into.
But I digress...
When I initially started writing, my primary aim was to tell a good story. It still is. But with every book I've written, it has also become something more than that. Now, I want to tell a good story with strong characters who set good examples. I want flawed heroes and heroines who eventually make the right choices - selfless and honorable choices - that readers can admire. I don't want them to lie and keep secrets from each other once they decide that they might share a future - unless they have a REALLY good reason that can later be forgiven. Instead, I prefer honesty and trust, developing a solid friendship on which to build a romantic relationship later. Isn't that more realistic anyway? Tension can be external, compounded by insecurities and fear. In my most recent novel, The Earl's Complete Surrender, Chloe has just escaped a horrible marriage, so the last place she's heading for is the altar. Meanwhile, James' work as a spy/investigator for the king makes an attachment difficult since he fears risking other people's lives by association. In spite of the obvious attraction between them however, it isn't until they start working together that they begin thinking about sharing a future - once they realize how much they have in common and how well they click. Conversation is a great way in which to achieve this.
The same holds true for His Scandalous Kiss. Due for release on July 29th 2016 and inspired by The Phantom of the Opera, this story is all about overcoming insecurities and fear while putting the person you love ahead of yourself. It's about acceptance, change and the inevitable decision to risk it all in the quest for true love. The plot will take readers on a wonderful journey beneath the foundations of Thorncliff, allowing for an element of adventure. But at the end of the day, it is the romance that takes the lead in this book, offering a tortured hero and a kind heroine who are much to be admired.



The Earl's Complete Surrender - Quote


Thursday, January 14, 2016

Fresh Review of The Earl's Complete Surrender

The Earl's Complete Surrender
Sophie Barnes

Reviewed by Linda Green
Posted January 12, 2016
It is 1820, and James, the Earl of Woodford, has received his latest mission as a spy for the King. But this mission is much more close to his heart. He has been charged to discover the identity of The Electors, a group of ruthless, powerful men who shape the political landscape for their own gain - the men who murdered his parents when he was a boy. To achieve his goal, James must travel to Thorncliff Manor to find a book, which would be simple except for the myriad of people and social obligations involved in a house stay. And Woodford likes to be alone...until he sees her.
Lady Chloe Newbury is dipping her toe back into society after the death of her husband. Having suffered much abuse at the hands of that man, she is glad she is finally free. But her confidence and self-belief has been shaken. The only good result from her marriage is her discovery of the existence of a book, which would finally uncover who had murdered her grandfather, and Chloe is determined to discover it.
As Chloe and James are forced to work side-by-side, their undeniable chemistry is hard to ignore. But for two people who have sworn never to take a chance on love, can this adventure open their hearts to more?
With danger, scoundrels, betrayals and sizzling passion, THE EARL'S COMPLETE SURRENDER by Sophie Barnes is one of the most entertaining Regency romances I have ever enjoyed. A well developed plot with intelligent characters, plenty of suspense, and just enough twists and turns to make it interesting, this novel has it all. James and Chloe are lovable, frustrating and endearing, and as a reader you cannot help but wish they grab a chance at love together. THE EARL'S COMPLETE SURRENDER by Sophie Barnes is the perfect example of what a Regency romance should be.

Originally posted by Fresh Fiction

The Earl's Complete Surrender - Quote

Upon realizing that the man she saw in the carriage is The Earl of Woodford:



Harlequin Junkie Spotlight & Giveaway

Harlequin Junkie Romance Reviews has kindly invited me for an interview today. We're chatting about The Earl's Complete Surrender so come take a look and post a comment for a chance to WIN an ebook copy of my latest release!



Discover some random facts about this book, when the first kiss takes place and what I have in store for you later this year by clicking HERE