Welcome to My World of Historical Hilarity!

Welcome to My World of Historical Hilarity!

I like comedy and I like Regency. So, when I decided to write a romance, naturally I wrote regencies, and comedy became an integral part of each tale.

And my comedy is not the type for wan smiles, but has some pretty wacky stuff.

There’s An Inheritance for the Birds, where the hero must compete with his late great-aunt’s companion in order to inherit her estate. Their task: make the deceased lady’s pet ducks happy. Are you kidding? How do you make ducks happy? Quack at them? Well, my hero and heroine must figure out how to make waterfowl happy, waterfowl that have names like Obadiah, Ulrick, Urania and Felizarda, to name a few.

Or how about Gifts Gone Astray, where the heroine gives the hero a gift--a book on a subject in which they share an interest. The hero is flattered beyond words--until he opens the book. Hell and the devil, how could such a demure lady have an interest in this?

Then there’s Mistletoe Everywhere, a Christmas story in which the hero sees mistletoe over the lady who jilted him, or whom he jilted (who’s right?), and no one else can see the plant. Is the hero insane or making everything up? Why would he? If nothing else, he becomes the butt of mistletoe jokes.

In Pumpkinnapper, someone’s stealing the heroine’s pumpkins and the hero, Henry, decides to catch the culprit. Trouble is, the heroine’s large, mean pet goose, also named Henry, is very attached to his mistress and takes umbrage. Henry the man has no choice but to compete with Henry the goose for the heroine’s affections. Quite a comedown for a young, rich, handsome nobleman, especially since the goose usually gets the upper hand.

Lady of the Stars is my time travel, and sparks as well as comedy fly when the twenty-first century heroine goes back to the Regency to meet the hero. The humor  comes from the juxtaposition of incongruities. The hero has trouble understanding her speech. The heroine can’t figure out why everyone has to wear hats. And is that a chamber pot under her bed?

Then there's my self-published book, A Similar Taste in Books (Book 1 of Love and the Library),  wherein the hero and heroine meet at the library over a copy of Pride and Prejudice. At the time, novels were considered the lowest form of literature, in part because women liked them, in many ways like the romances of today. The hero covers his preference for Pride and Prejudice by saying he's taking the book out for his sister, while the heroine despairs because she thought she had met her very own Mr. Darcy.

You can find humor in some of the most unexpected places.

Blurbs and excerpts are available on my website, http://www.lindabanche.com

My books are available at Barnes and Noble, Amazon,  Smashwords, and other places ebooks are sold.

To give you an idea of my writing, here's the blurb and excerpt for An Inheritance for the Birds.

BLURB:
Make the ducks happy and win an estate!

Mr. Christopher "Kit" Winnington can't believe the letter from his late great-aunt's solicitor. In order to inherit her estate, he must win a contest against her companion, Miss Angela Stratton. Whoever makes his great-aunt's pet ducks happy wins.

A contest: What a cork-brained idea. This Miss Stratton is probably a sly spinster who camouflaged her grasping nature from his good-natured relative. There is no way he will let the estate go to a usurper.

Angela never expected her former employer to name her in her will. Most likely, this Mr. Winnington is a trumped-up jackanapes who expects her to give up without a fight. Well, she is made of sterner stuff.

The ducks quack in avian bliss as Kit and Angela do their utmost to make the ducks--and themselves--happy.

A sweet, traditional Regency romance.


EXCERPT:
Yawning, he shut the door behind him. Enough ducks and prickly ladies for one day. After dropping his satchel by the bed, he dragged off his clothes and draped them over the chair back. He dug a nightshirt from the valise and donned the garment before he blew out both candles.

Bates had already drawn back the bedclothes. The counterpane was soft under Kit's palm, and covered a featherbed. He grinned. By any chance, had they used the down from the pet ducks to stuff the mattress and pillows?

After tying the bed curtains back, he settled into the soft cocoon and laced his fingers behind his head. Tomorrow, he would have it out with Miss Stratton about the steward's residence, but that was tomorrow. He fluffed up his pillow and turned onto his side…

"QUACK!"

A bundle of flapping, squawking feathers exploded from the depths of the covers and attacked him. Throwing his arms over his head for protection, Kit fell out of bed. He scrambled to his feet and bolted for the door, the thrashing, quacking explosion battering him. A serrated knife edge scraped over his upper arm. "Ow!" Batting at the avian attacker with one hand, he groped for the latch with the other.

The door swung open. Miss Stratton, her candle flame flickering, dashed into the chamber. "Esmeralda, you stop that right now!"

The feathered windstorm quacked once more and, in a graceful arc, fluttered to the floor.

Kit lowered his arms and gave a mental groan. A duck. He should have known.

Have fun.

Thank you all,

Linda

Linda Banche

Welcome to My World of Historical Hilarity!

http://www.lindabanche.com
http://lindabanche.blogspot.com

Review: Texas Pride by Leigh Greenwood

Penniless nobility, female ranchers, treachery, action, and loads of romance set in 1870’s Texas--Texas Pride has it all.

Impoverished Polish prince Ivan came to America ten years ago to seek his fortune. What he found were the privations of war as a soldier, backbreaking work as a cowhand, and betrayal from someone he thought a friend. When that same false friend offers him half a ranch he won in a card game if Ivan works it for a year, he is understandably wary. But selling his half of the ranch will net him enough money to return to Poland. And the ranch’s other owner is a woman beautiful enough to make a man forget his homeland. But is everything as it seems?

Furious at her younger brother for losing his share of their ranch, Carla must now deal with this usurper. She wants to hate him, but she can’t. He’s handsome, kind and able to pull his weight as a cowhand. Even better, he likes her as the feisty female she is and doesn’t want her to change, as every other man does.

Generally, westerns are not my first choice of romance. I prefer my historicals set on foreign shores. I also don’t usually read romances written by male authors. Men tend to make the hero a superman and the heroine a simpering idiot who blindly worships the god-like male. Ugh.

But not Mr. Greenwood. His Texas Pride contains all the elements I like--a story with action and mystery, a hero and heroine I love, and tons of romance. Ivan is heroic, but Carla matches him in gumption and intelligence. A true partnership, not a master and slave. And their romance is scrumptious.

Ivan is my favorite type of hero, the honorable man. I especially like honorable men who make their own way. Even better are honorable men who face treachery and come through the experience even better men. And he’s blond (I love blond heroes) and gorgeous, too. What’s not to like?

Carla is my favorite kind of heroine. I like a heroine who fights against the artificial constraints imposed by the male establishment and wins. I like even more a male author who writes with approval of such a woman. Good for you, Mr. Greenwood. I wish you loads of success.

Texas Pride has everything I love in a romance. Enjoy.

Thank you all,
Linda
ARC provided by Sourcebooks

Review: MISS HILLARY SCHOOLS A SCOUNDREL by Samantha Grace

Samantha Grace’s debut Regency historical, Miss Hillary Schools a Scoundrel, is a laugh-out-loud tale of two unlikely lovers and the obstacles to true love, most of which they created themselves.

After breaking her engagement to a fortune-hunting rake, heiress Lana seeks a man who wants her and not her money. Lord Andrew is rich enough not to care about her dowry, but he’s still a rake with no interest in marriage. Her mother has picked a foreign nobleman for her, but Lana doesn’t care for him. She prefers Andrew, unsuitable as he is. What is she to do?

Andrew doesn’t want to marry. He’s having too much fun with wine, women and song. But Lana is different. What does she have that all the other ladies don’t? And he doesn’t like that foreigner who’s fawning over her. Something about the man strikes him as wrong.

Miss Hillary Schools a Scoundrel is a light-hearted (for the most part) Regency with heiresses, rakes, fortune hunters, mysterious noblemen, protective brothers, lovelorn yearning, crossed signals and people who are not what they seem. As well as two appealing lovers who refuse to believe they’re right for each other until they finally realize they are. Ms. Grace also leaves us wondering what will happen next with her tantalizing glimpses of Lana’s brother, Jake, and Amelia, the lady he wants but who doesn’t want him. Or so she thinks.

If you enjoy Regency romps, you’ll enjoy Miss Hillary Schools a Scoundrel.

Thank you all,
Linda
ARC provided by Sourcebooks

Review: THE LORD OF ILLUSION by Kathryne Kennedy

Tender love, furious action and a life-and-death struggle bring Kathryne Kennedy's The Lord of Illusion, the final book in her Elven Lords trilogy, to a crashing finale.

All his life, Drystan has been an outcast because of his magical visions. These dreams have led him to a lonely and frustrating job as a researcher, where he sifts through long-unread records in search of the woman in his visions. That sad, beautiful lady may hold the key to defeating the Elven lords. Her sorrow also tears at his heart. Is she as lonely as he? He yearns to find her and wipe away her sadness. When his researches at last provide a clue about her, he masquerades as a nobleman and travels to the palace of the Elven lord of illusion to find the lady of his dreams.

The slave Camille has suffered abuse from men all her life. Suddenly, a handsome aristocrat arrives who protects her. He's a kind man and she had encountered too few. But she is wary. What does he really want?

The Lord of Illusion is a story of how people can change when circumstances require, but especially when love smooths the way. Both Drystan and Camille, shunned by their compatriots, tentatively search for happiness with each other. Drystan is magnificent as the strong yet gentle man who coaxes the terrified Camille to love him. Camille is heroic as she rises above her abusive situation to help in the humans' fight for freedom from the elven lords. The magical wonders along the way are exciting, well-thought out and lovely in their fierceness, but the real beauty in this novel is the growing love and trust between Drystan and Camille.

Ms. Kennedy also gives us tantalizing glimpses of other couples who have brought us to this ending. May she someday fill in the gaps.

In The Lord of Illusion, with its awe-inspiring world full of dragons, fire fountains, water steeds and other magical marvels, Ms. Kennedy demonstrates yet again that the one true and most powerful magic is love.

Thank you all,
Linda
ARC provided by Sourcebooks

Review: MIDNIGHT WALTZ by Jennifer Blake

I've loved every Jennifer Blake book I've read. Midnight Waltz is no exception.

In antebellum Louisiana, young wife Amalie settles into marriage with her new husband, Julien. Handsome, rich and charming, Julien is everything a woman could ask for, but slightly distant--until he comes to her bed at night. Then he turns into the wildly passionate lover of every woman's dreams.

The difference confuses and alarms Amalie, especially when attraction develops between her and Julien's newly arrived cousin, Robert. Secrets abound in a society that owes its existence to strict conformity, and Amalie's placid life ruptures when long-hidden truths surface.

Vivid descriptions and lush storytelling rocket you through this vibrant and compelling historical romance. Ms. Blake's extensive research and detailed descriptions insert you firmly into 1850's Louisiana plantation life. As a product of her time, Amalie starts out as a bit of a doormat, but her difficult situation rapidly transforms her into a woman capable of directing her own course, even if society disapproves. The hero (and I won't tell you who he is) is again my favorite type, the decent man.

While Midnight Waltz is everything a romance novel should be, the story is also a sad commentary on the futility and the tragedy of obeying society's precepts at any cost.

First published in 1984, Midnight Waltz remains a winner.

Thank you all,
Linda
ARC provided by Sourcebooks

Review: THE LADY OF THE STORM by Kathryne Kennedy

Kathryne Kennedy's The Lady of the Storm, the second installment of her Georgian fantasy, The Elven Lords, is a rousing story of adventure and the coming of age interspersed with magical marvels galore.

Half-human Cecily, bastard daughter of the elven lord of Dewhame, never wanted the powers over storm and stream she inherited from her father. And for years, thanks to her stepfather's magical safeguards and the watchful eye of Giles, whom her stepfather appointed as her protector, she lived as an ordinary girl. But Giles longs for action and adventure, and chafes in his role as blacksmith in a provincial village, especially since he desires Cecily. Cecily also desires Giles, but her stepfather has forbidden their yearning.

Then Cecily's stepfather disappears, and so do his shields. The water lord discovers his powerful daughter is still alive and moves to eliminate her. Cecily and Giles flee to the humans who fight to regain England from the elven overlords, and undertake a dangerous quest that leads them straight into the water lord's palace.

Ms. Kennedy has created another fascinating blend of history and magic in the elven kingdom of Dewhame. Merging magic and mores, she again captures Georgian sensibilities against the background of a world of magical wonders. And the magical water wonders are indeed wonderful and fit seamlessly into the story.

But The Lady of the Storm is also a study of heroism. Giles and Cecily, so human in their determination to seek their desires, achieve heroism and their yearned-for love when they finally accept the roles fate has thrust upon them.

Another fine effort from the master of historical magical romance.

Thank you all,
Linda
ARC provided by Sourcebooks

GIFTS GONE ASTRAY Reviews

I note the reviews that contain spoilers.

5 Hearts out of 5 from TJ at The Romance Studio
"A truly wondrous tale of gift-giving, misunderstandings, and unexpected love. There were blushing beauties, scholarly studs, nefarious schemers, mischievous children, and kindly uncles all wrapped in Ms. Banche's prim and proper Regency prose, that once opened revealed a sweetly racy story that was perfect. The writing was vivid and captured the time exactly."
http://www.theromancestudio.com/reviews/reviews/goneastraybanche.htm


5 stars, Recommended Read from Icy Snow at Two Lips Reviews
"...may be a sweet romance, but it does have its racy moments. Double entendres abound. There are very neat turns of phrase...They...prove that one may write an arousing tale without being graphically explicit."
http://www.twolipsreviews.com/content/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=8690&Itemid=67
 
5 stars from Lindsay Townsend (To Touch the Knight)
"Gifts Gone Astray by Linda Banche is a delightful romantic comedy of misunderstandings, ghastly relations (old and young) a sinister suitor and two very different books sent as gifts to the 'wrong' people."
http://www.amazon.com/Gifts-Gone-Astray-ebook/dp/B0058V64XS/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&m=AG56TWVU5XWC2&s=books&qid=1309696840&sr=1-5

4 out of 5 stars from The Romance Reviews (Contains spoilers)
"Linda Banche's new novella, GIFTS GONE ASTRAY, is a charming Regency love story, which I enjoyed very much...so put your feet up for a few hours and enjoy!"
http://www.theromancereviews.com/viewbooksreview.php?bookid=2842


4 out of 5 stars from Emery at Romantic Historical Fiction Lovers
"Gifts Gone Astray is an entertaining romantic comedy of errors that I highly recommend for those who, like me, need  the indulgent pleasure of a good Regency romp every now and then."
http://romantichistoricallovers.wordpress.com/2012/11/29/gifts-gone-astray-and-mistletoe-everywhere-by-linda-banche/


4 out of 5 stars from Romance Writers Reviews (Contains spoilers)
http://www.romancewritersreviews.com/index.php?option=com_sobi2&sobi2Task=sobi2Details&catid=11&sobi2Id=127&Itemid=30

3.5 Stars from Long and Short Romance Reviews (LASR)
"A Regency screwball comedy? Linda Banche’s latest romantic offering, Gifts Gone Astray, comes pretty darn close...The comedy that runs throughout the book will have you laughing out loud (I certainly did) ...If you’d like to experience laughter as the hero and heroine fall in love, this is the book to read! "
http://longandshortreviews.blogspot.com/2011/08/gifts-gone-astray-by-linda-banche.html

3 Stars from RT Book Reviews (Contains spoilers)
http://www.rtbookreviews.com/book-review/gifts-gone-astray
"A sweetly written historical romance. The story is about two lonely people trying to fit into Regency England’s strict societal structure, but not finding a place they feel comfortable until they meet each other."

3 Roses out of 5 at Romancing the Book
http://www.romancing-the-book.com/2012/01/review-gifts-gone-astray-by-linda.html
"Ms. Banche, has a good story here and one that is enjoyable...overall a good light read."

Blurb and Excerpt here.

Available at The Wild Rose Press, Amazon, Barnes and Noble, All Romance eBooks and other places where ebooks are sold.

Thank you all,
Linda

Release Day! GIFTS GONE ASTRAY, Regency comedy

At long last, today is the release day for my latest Regency comedy novella, Gifts Gone Astray!

BLURB:
A gift is a wonderful surprise. Or maybe not.

At the Earl of Langley's family gathering, everyone receives a gift, including the servants. Tutor Stephen Fairfax expects a small token, but the present from family member Mrs. Anne Copely, the widow who's caught his eye, is a dream come true.

Until he opens it. What a gift! How did that demure lady acquire such a book? And she wants to "study" it with him? If he accepts her offer, tempting as it is, he could lose his job.

Anne has no idea why Mr. Fairfax is in such a flutter. Her present is a simple book of illustrations. The subject interests them both, and she would like nothing better than to examine the book--and Mr. Fairfax--more closely.

EXCERPT:
She glanced at the mantel clock. "Oh, look at the time! I must return to the drawing room. So much to do before the family party tonight. But, before I leave..." She swallowed. "We had some trouble with the gifts today. Yours went missing. I apologize—"

"But I received a gift. Someone left it outside my door."

"Thank the stars." She pressed her hand to her bosom.

Stephen's gaze followed her hand down and his throat dried.

"I worried your present was lost."

She worried about me. Capital! He tore his eager gaze from her breasts and lifted his head. "I have not yet unwrapped it. A book, I take it?"

"Yes. The volume belonged to my husband. He was a scholar, and that book was one of his favorites. Mine, too. We spent many happy hours enjoying it." Another dazzling smile curved her lips. "I selected it with you in mind."

His pulse thumped. I have a chance. "You flatter me with your consideration."

"My pleasure." She flashed another of her heart-stopping smiles. "As much as I long to, I will not ruin the surprise by telling you what the book is." She smoothed her face into a blank stare, but her glorious chocolate eyes twinkled.

So, she wanted to play games. He gave an inward smirk. He would love to play games of a different sort. But he would settle for a guessing game. For now.

Available at:

The Wild Rose Press

Note, depending where you are, the links might not yet be active.

Thank you all,
Linda
Linda Banche
Welcome to My World of Historical Hilarity!
http://www.lindabanche.com

Review: WICKHAM'S DIARY by Amanda Grange

In Wickham's Diary, Amanda Grange has written a cautionary tale of how circumstances and personality can conspire to make a man go wrong.

In Georgian and Regency England, birth was all. No matter how brilliant, hardworking or even wealthy, a person's place in the natural hierarchy trumped all. But if a man was not born to wealth and power, he could obtain some if he used his opportunities.

Wickham, son of the elder Darcy's steward, was the younger Darcy's childhood playmate and friend. As such, Wickham had access to the highest circles of society. In addition, the elder Darcy paid for the boy's education at Cambridge, which the Wickhams could never have afforded. Wickham was always a bit wild, but his mother's guidance kept his more undisciplined tendencies in check. She urged him to better himself by using his acquaintances among the upper classes, but she died while he was still in Cambridge. Unchecked, Wickham's always-present resentment toward Fitzwilliam Darcy's privileges took root and festered, with the culmination of his attempt to elope with Georgiana.

I found this story sad in that a basically good young boy went wrong because of a lack of guidance. I am also angry at the adult Wickham, who had advantages others of his class could only dream of, and yet squandered them all. But I am angry as well at a world that produced sycophants like Mr. Collins, malcontents like Wickham, and the sanctimonious Fitzwilliam Darcy who took his exalted place for granted.

Kudos to Ms. Grange for portraying Georgian England in such a true light as to bring out both reactions.

Thank you all,
Linda
ARC Supplied by Sourcebooks

Review: THE LANDLORD'S BLACK-EYED DAUGHTER by Mary Ellen Dennis

The Landlord's Black-Eyed Daughter by Mary Ellen Dennis is a riveting, fast-paced story of a man battling for justice in an unjust era and a woman struggling for her independence in a male-dominated society.

In this intense, brooding retelling of Alfred Noyes's The Highwayman, past lives, reincarnation, dark emotions and forbidden love collide in the story of Elizabeth and Rand, two misfits in Georgian England. Elizabeth, an independent woman who earns her own way as an author, is a menace to the oppressive status quo, symbolized by the evil magistrate, Walter, whose desire for her conflicts with his need to destroy her. Soldier turned highwayman Rand, disgusted with the platitude-spouting hypocrisy of the powerful that crush anyone who defies them, strikes back as a Georgian Robin Hood, stealing from the rich to give to the poor. Sparks fly when these two kindred souls meet. Increasing their blazing attraction for each are glimpses of unfinished business from the past, when they were also lovers.

Ms. Dennis plunges you deep into Elizabeth and Rand's time right from page one. Rich in historical detail, The Landlord's Black-Eyed Daughter sweeps you along on waves of atmosphere and passion as a desperate Elizabeth and Rand seek a haven in a world determined to subjugate them. Rand is another version of my favorite kind of hero, a decent man. And Elizabeth is smart and tenacious, a fighter in a repressive age that demolished most women's resistance.

I couldn't put The Landlord's Black-Eyed Daughter down. Am I glad I read it.

Thank you all,
Linda
ARC provided by Sourcebooks

Review: MY LOVE, MY ENEMY by Jan Cox Speas

Set during the War of 1812, My Love, My Enemy by Jan Cox Speas is a story of conflicting loyalties and how the fate of individuals can diverge from the fate of nations. Ranging from America to Bermuda, France and England, the story is a cornucopia of historical detail interwoven with a fast-paced adventure story and, of course, romance.

In 1813 Annapolis, Maryland, Page saves suspected British spy Joss from hanging by Americans furious at the encroachments of the occupying British. As they sail back to her father's house, the British capture them. Page, now a prisoner, is forced to sail away from her home. But the British Joss protects Page from the harsh realities of nations at war. Love blossoms between these two people separated by national loyalties. But individuals compose nations, and Page and Joss must decide if their love can surmount their differences.

I love stories that combine rousing adventure and tons of accurate history with the romance. Ms. Speas succeeds on all accounts. Without ever being intrusive, she weaves history, sea lore, adventure and romance into an exciting tale of the choices people at war must make. Joss was a little too much of an overbearing superman for my taste, and Page too reckless and too young (eighteen). But the characters are true to their era, and the novel, written in 1961, is also a reflection of its time.

For those of us who like action and adventure with our romance, My Love, My Enemy is a welcome addition to our libraries.

Thank you all,
Linda
ARC provided by Sourcebooks

Review: FIERCE EDEN by Jennifer Blake

Fierce Eden by Jennifer Blake is a sweeping, vibrant historical tale of love, honor, betrayal and adventure.

In 1729 Louisiana, long-simmering tension erupts into violence as the beleaguered Natchez Indians attack the French Fort Rosalie, destroying the fort and the surrounding farms and slaughtering the settlers.

Widowed French landowner Elise, after suffering marriage with an abusive husband, has no wish to submit to any man. But in the chaos after the massacre, she must accept the attentions of the half-French Natchez prince, Reynaud, as the price for his protection of her and her little band of survivors.

And so begins a far-ranging tale of culture clash and divided loyalties. Rich in in-depth historical detail and fast-paced action, Ms. Blake's superb novel sweeps you away into a vastly different time and place. Never dull, she draws you into the story of Elise's and Reynaud's increasing love for each other against the background of a world in violent transition.

Fierce Eden immerses you in cultures far different from our own, but where human nature remains the same. Elise, while a woman of her time, is no passive victim. She fights against her fate, and fails and succeeds in turn. Reynaud, as both French and Natchez, is torn between two worlds and must make the wrenching decision of where to place his loyalties.

I love Jennifer Blake. Her novels are exactly the kind of meaty read I adore. Ms. Blake wrote Fierce Eden in 1985 and the good news is--she's still writing. Even better, she still writes the same wonderful type of story. May she write for a long time to come, so we fans can enjoy her new novels along with her treasures of the past.

Thank you all,
Linda
ARC provided by Sourcebooks

Mistletoe

A Regency Christmas story wouldn't be complete without the hero and heroine celebrating their love with a kiss under the mistletoe. Long a symbol of fertility, mistletoe, with its glossy green leaves and white berries, has become a Christmas symbol of love and marriage.

Mistletoe is an evergreen, a spot of life in the brown, dormant landscape of a northern winter. At this low point of the year, Regency people decorated their houses with mistletoe, along with other seasonal greens such as Christmas rose (Hellebore), evergreen boughs, holly, ivy, hawthorn, laurel, rosemary and bay, as a reminder that spring would return.

In England, mistletoe, which is a parasite, grows most often on apple trees, but also on blackthorn, hawthorn, lime, poplar, rowan, oak and willow. Although its range extends from Devon to Yorkshire, the plant grows mainly to the south and west, and is particularly abundant around London.

Some of the myths surrounding mistletoe originated with the Druids, who deemed the plant a sexual symbol--the juice from the white berries resembles semen--and, by extension, an aphrodisiac. As part of their winter solstice ceremonies, they cut mistletoe from oak trees, providing a link to the later holiday of Christmas.

The origin of kissing under the mistletoe may derive from the Norse legend of the death of the sun god, Balder, killed by a sprig of mistletoe hurled by his enemy, Loki. When Balder's mother, Frigga, the goddess of love, cried over her son, her tears resurrected him. In gratitude, she kissed everyone who came under the mistletoe.

A lesser known legend declares mistletoe the plant of peace. Enemies meeting under the mistletoe had to embrace and declare a truce until the next day. This goodwill and embrace may also be the source of the kiss under the mistletoe.

Regency people used mistletoe in the form of a kissing bough--a simple arrangement of mistletoe decorated with ribbons and hung over a doorway or entrance. The gentleman would kiss his lady and then pluck a white berry which he then presented to her, perhaps as a symbol of the child he could give her. When all the berries were gone, that sprig of mistletoe could no longer be used to steal kisses, although many people disregarded the berries' absence.

My Regency Christmas story, Mistletoe Everywhere, incorporates the myth of enemies--in this case, the estranged hero and heroine--declaring a truce under the mistletoe.

Short blurb: A man who sees mistletoe everywhere is mad--or in love.

More info at my website, http://www.lindabanche.com

Universal Buy Link: https://books2read.com/u/478kLR

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all.

Thank you all,
Linda

The painting is Mr. Fezziwig’s Ball (1843). Hand colored etching by John Leech from A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens. From https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:A_Christmas_Carol_-_Mr._Fezziwig%27s_Ball.jpg

 

Review: NEVER A BRIDE by Amelia Grey

Never A Bride by Amelia Grey is a delightful tale of a determined lady, a flummoxed gentleman and the avenging of an innocent.

Mirabella kisses gentleman. Way too many by her erstwhile fiancé's estimate. But then, who is Camden to cast stones? He promised to wed her six years ago and he's only just returned to Regency London from America. While he sought his fortune to pay off his father's monstrous gambling debts, she has been unable to seek another husband.

Mirabella, unable to confide in anyone, must find the man who drove her friend to suicide. The villain has a scar on his collarbone and kissing gentlemen is the only way she can feel under their cravats. What's the loss of a reputation when she can prevent some other unfortunate's ruin? Besides, she will never marry, not since her unfeeling fiancé left her for so long.

While their attraction grows more and more intense, Mirabella proceeds on her course to the exasperation of a mystified Camden. I love the honorable Mirabella, who continues a quest that may cause her harm. And I love Camden, as his feelings for Mirabella war with his upbringing that labels her a wanton. Ms. Grey keeps you wondering right to the end if these two people, so right for each other, will overlook their differences. A truly enjoyable read.

Thank you all,
Linda
ARC provided by Sourcebooks

Review: To Conquer Mr. Darcy by Abigail Reynolds

To Conquer Mr. Darcy is the latest in Abigail Reynolds's series of Pride and Prejudice sequels that ask "What if?" In this case, what if, after Elizabeth Bennet refuses his badly bungled marriage proposal, Mr. Darcy returns to Merryton and courts her?

The story opens as a despondent Darcy comes to his senses and determines to win Elizabeth. In a subtle campaign of tolerance of her family, more sociability towards those he formerly considered his inferiors, and tender escalating attentions toward Elizabeth, he overcomes her doubts.

Since she read his letter explaining the situation with Wickham, Elizabeth's low opinion of Darcy has undergone a radical change. Her feelings toward him, while still unsure, have softened. While she tells herself and him that they can only be friends, his efforts lead to much more than friendship.

Ms. Reynolds does a stunning job of chronicling their growing emotional attachment as their passions flare higher and higher. Suffice it to say that in this version, they marry much sooner than in Pride and Prejudice.

I love Ms. Reynolds's portrayal of the always-certain-of-herself Elizabeth confused and unsure, as logic tells her to maintain her distance from Darcy, while her feelings draw her nearer.

But the best part of the book is Mr. Darcy. Jane Austen created a hero for the ages in Mr. Darcy, but Abigail Reynolds has made him even better. He's breathtaking in his emotional journey to win Elizabeth's love--determined, tender, vulnerable, willing to change and madly in love. May we all find a hero like him.

Thank you all,

Linda

ARC provided by Sourcebooks

Review: THE FIRE LORD'S LOVER by Kathryne Kennedy

The Fire Lord’s Lover by Kathryne Kennedy is a dark tale of intrigue, treachery, and unexpected love in a fantasy Georgian England where malicious elves rule their despised human slaves with a brutal hand.

This first book of the series takes place in Firehame, the domain of the Fire Lord, Mor'ded. Dominic, Mor'ded’s half-human son and general of his army, has just won the latest of the war games the elves wage to amuse themselves. He returns home to wed Lady Cassandra in an arranged marriage. He also returns to his father’s continued scorn of his human side.

Cass, assassin for the humans of the Rebellion, weds Dominic to get close enough to his hated father to kill him. In spite of her intentions, she falls in love with Dominic, but he disdains her. A confused Cass wonders how she can convince him to return her love.

His father's cruelty has forced Dominic to bury his human emotions deep. He does his best not to fall in love with Cass. But when he does, his contempt is a mask to protect her from Mor'ded, who has tortured to death everyone for whom Dominic has ever cared.

Those of you who read my posts know that I like nice guy heroes, decent men who’ve been kicked around and it’s made them even better men. In Dominic, Ms. Kennedy has created a spectacular version of my favorite hero. Literally tortured by his father in an effort to eradicate his humanity, Dominic emerges more human than ever and the kind of hero I never tire of finding.

Kathryne Kennedy will guest here on Wednesday, July, 21.

Thank you all,
Linda
ARC provided by Sourcebooks

Review: UNCERTAIN MAGIC by Laura Kinsale

If you've never read a Laura Kinsale novel, read one. Now. I'd heard how wonderful her historical romances were, but, somehow, I never got around to reading one.

What a mistake.

Uncertain Magic is a vivid, atmospheric tale of deceptive appearances, high stakes, and wrenching emotion. Set in late Georgian England and Ireland, the novel adds Irish magic and mystery to a can't-put-down, sweeping drama of two misfits who find their fit with each other.

Roderica can read minds. The constant intrusion of others' thoughts is so painful, she fears she will never wed--until she encounters Faelan, "The Devil Earl", the only man whose mind is opaque to her power. Faelan needs money to resurrect his impoverished estate. Roderica has a large dowry. Without telling him of her unusual ability, she encourages him to seek her hand in marriage. Faelan harbors his own secrets. Is he really the devil, as his nickname implies?

Against the terror and tumult of the doomed 1798 Irish rebellion, Roderica and Faelan, afraid to trust each other, risk their love, their sanity, and their very lives.

Uncertain Magic was first published in 1987 and time hasn't diminished the power and appeal of this early paranormal. I especially like that Ms. Kinsale has written two of my favorite characters, the strong heroine and the wronged, decent hero.

Uncertain Magic is a keeper. I look forward to my next Laura Kinsale novel.

Thank you all,
Linda

ARC provided by Sourcebooks

Guest Blogger Amelia Grey: My Own Special Hero

Today I am delighted to host fellow Regency author, Amelia Grey. Sourcebooks will release her latest book, An Earl to Enchant, this month.

Sourcebooks will give away two copies of An Earl to Enchant. Leave a comment with your email address for a chance to win one. Amelia will select the lucky winners, and I will contact them by email. Check the comments to see who won, and how to contact me to claim your book. If I cannot contact the winners with a week of their announcement, I will award the books to alternates. Note that Sourcebooks can mail only to addresses in the USA and Canada. The winners are Beth Caudill and Susan. Susan, please email me at linda@lindabanche.com by May 5 so I can have your book sent to you.

Welcome Amelia!

Good morning! Thank you for having me, Linda.

You know, I think one of the reasons I’m such a fan of romance books, Regencies in particular, is because of the heroes. Earlier this year my wonderful husband, Floyd, and I celebrated our wedding anniversary. The day was as special for me as the day we married. He’s my high school sweetheart, and I’ve been blessed to call him my best friend all these years. He’s the man I look to as my hero. That said, I do enjoy writing heroes who are not the typical modern-day husbands.

Inasmuch as Floyd is my knight in shining armor, I love to create a larger than life man! A dark-haired Earl wearing shiny Hessian boots and sitting tall in the saddle, a hint of arrogance on his chiseled face, is the perfect escape between the pages of one of my Amelia Grey books.

While my heroes are works of fiction, their deep-rooted, fine character comes from the man I am married to. My husband has been very encouraging of my career. I’ve often told him he supports me in ways he’ll never know. I’m so fortunate he’s proud of what I do. Thinking back to my wedding day, I could have never foreseen all that we have experienced together or even that we would still be together. The years have been full of surprises and joy, some not so easy times in the early years--but we’ve had each other and that’s all that’s mattered.

I absolutely adore Regency gentlemen because they truly wanted to make a woman feel beautiful, tempting, and cared for. And back then, a lady expected a man to open her door, pull out her chair, and mind his language and manners in front of her.

What I enjoy writing most is that first meeting between the two main characters, and I think back to myself as that young high school girl with a secret crush on my hero. Little did I know when I first met Floyd, I would become his wife. Much like Arianna Sweet, my heroine in An Earl to Enchant, which is the third book in my Rogues’ Dynasty Series and on sale now at your favorite local or online bookstore. Arianna definitely vexes Lord Morgandale with her headstrong ways. I would like to say that I didn’t resist Floyd as coyly as my heroine, but he may have another story!

In a romance novel, we all know the happily ever after conclusion before we start a Regency, but it’s how the hero and heroine fall in love that keeps readers turning the pages. The journey is so much fun just as the journey has been with my own true love.

So join me in celebrating over thirty years and counting. Share with me something about the very special person in your life.

The first chapter of my latest book An Earl to Enchant, the third book in the Rogues’ Dynasty Series is available on my website. I invite you to stop by and give it a try.

I’m always happy to hear from readers. Please e-mail me at ameliagrey@comcast.net or visit my website at ameliagrey.com.

Thank you for coming, Amelia. Come back any time.

AN EARL TO ENCHANT by AMELIA GREY—IN STORES APRIL 2010
He’s determined not to be a hero…

Lord Morgandale is as notorious as he is dashing, and he’s determined no woman will tie him down. But from the moment Arianna Sweet appears on his doorstep, he cannot resist the lure of her fascinating personality, exotic wardrobe, and tempting green eyes…

She has a deadly secret…

Arianna Sweet never imagined the significance of her father’s research until after his untimely death. Now she is in possession of his groundbreaking discovery, one that someone would kill for. She can’t tell Lord Morgandale her secret, but she knows she needs his help, desperately…

About the Author
Winner of the Booksellers Best Award and the Romantic Times Award for Love and Laughter, Amelia Grey's books have been sold in Europe, Russia and China. Married for twenty-five years to her high school sweetheart, she has lived in Alabama, Connecticut, New Hampshire, and now calls Panama City Beach, Florida, home. For more information, please visit www.ameliagrey.com.

Review: THE DARCY COUSINS by Monica Fairview

Monica Fairview's The Darcy Cousins is a book full of surprises, and the surprises start with the title. This follow-on to The Other Mr. Darcy continues the saga of the American Darcys, but this book is the coming-of-age tale of the very English Georgiana, Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy's sister.

Three years have passed since Pride and Prejudice. Shy, retiring Georgiana is still unsure of herself after the debacle with Wickham. She awaits the start of her first Season, when into her life swoops her American cousin, Clarissa. The younger Clarissa is everything Georgiana wants to be--confident, outgoing and attractive to men, especially the handsome, charming Mr. Channing, to whom both girls take a fancy.

Mr. Channing's friend, Mr. Gatley, also handsome but not so charming, disapproves of Georgiana's infatuation and her attempts to ape Clarissa, and he makes no bones about telling her so. Each takes the other in dislike, and they spar constantly, refusing to admit their growing attraction. As Georgiana learns to be herself, with her own strengths and weaknesses, she at last sets to rest the ghost of Wickham. Mr. Gatley, so confident he is always right, realizes he can make mistakes, too.

Ms. Fairview has written a tale true to the Regency era, yet at the same time brimming with strong women. Clarissa is strong in an outgoing way. Georgiana is quieter but equally determined. The delightful surprise is the fate of Anne de Bourgh, the down-trodden daughter of the domineering Lady Catherine.

For those who can't get enough of Pride and Prejudice, The Darcy Cousins is sure to please.

Note, for a chance to win a copy of The Darcy Cousins, see my previous post here.

ARC supplied by Sourcebooks.

Thank you all,
Linda

MISTLETOE EVERYWHERE - Release Date November 3, 2010

Happy Easter, everyone!

On this holiday, we may as well look forward to another. The Wild Rose Press will release my Regency Christmas novella, Mistletoe Everywhere, on November 3, 2010.

BLURB:
A man who sees mistletoe everywhere is mad--or in love.

Charles sees mistletoe. Not surprising, since he's spending Christmas at Mistletoe Manor. But why does no one else see it? And why does it always appear above Penelope, the despised lady who jilted him after their last meeting?

Penelope wants nothing to do with the faithless Charles, the man who cried off after she accepted his marriage proposal. But he still stirs her heart--and he stares at her all the time. Or rather, he stares at the empty ceiling over her head…What does he see?

According to folklore, mistletoe is the plant of peace. Can Penelope and Charles, so full of hurt and anger, heed the mistletoe's message and make peace?

EXCERPT:

After Charles had heaped his plate with more food than he wanted, he took one of the empty chairs at the table bottom, as far from Penelope as possible.

His tensed muscles eased as he joked with his friends. Smythe made a comment and Charles turned to answer. He caught sight of Penelope…and a monstrous bunch of mistletoe above her.

"Gordon? What is it?" Smythe swiveled in the direction Charles was staring. He looked up and down, and from one side to the other. "I say, with your mouth hanging open like that, you must see something spectacular, but damned if I know what it is."

With an audible click, Charles clamped his jaw shut. "I thought I saw…" He forced his gaze back to his companion. "Nothing. I imagined I saw mistletoe."

Smythe's eyebrows rose. "Mistletoe?"

"Yes. The house is named 'Mistletoe Manor', so the place is filled with mistletoe decorations. Pictures, wall hangings, ceiling trim, whatnot."

"Indeed." Smythe's eyebrows rose higher. "That 'mistletoe' you saw is over that Miss Lawrence. Lovely little filly." His lips curved into a knowing grin. "My jaw dropped the first time I saw her, too."

Charles stiffened. "I was not looking at Miss Lawrence. I believed I saw mistletoe over her."

"'Mistletoe'." Symthe's grin widened. "Of course."

And on April 7, my guest is Monica Fairview, who talks about her latest release, The Darcy Cousins.

Thank you all,
Linda