What's Regency???

When I tell people what I write, their response is usually one of two things; “Regency? Oh, I love Regency!” Or “What is Regency?”

To those who ask that second question, Regency is a specific time period in England. It officially began when King George III, who had frequent periods of madness, was finally declared mad. His son, the Prince of Wales, was officially name Regent in his father’s stead, although most historians agree the queen really ran the country. This happened in 1811 and the Prince, sometimes referred to as “Prinny” was Regency until 1820 when King George III died and the prince was crowned King George IV.
The expanded Regency era is often thought of as the time of Jane Austen and the Napoleonic War, until the time Queen Victoria ascended the throne. Some historians believe the growing influence of the non-Anglican churches had more to do with the changing values that became the Victorian ideals. Victoria also had a very serious, possibly even prudish husband who probably affected society.

Clothing fashions underwent a dramatic change. The influence of the charismatic Beau Brummel took men out of bright colors, satins and ruffles that make one think of a peacock, and put them into more subdued colors and styles that evolved into the modern day tuxedo. People lost the powdered wigs and began bathing on a regular basis. The wealthy even had indoor plumbing. Josephine Bonaparte, who was influential in France, created the simpler women’s fashions of flowing, empire-style gowns reminiscent of Greek gowns, which were quickly adopted by the English who, no doubt, were grateful to rid themselves of corsets, panniers, and laughable headdresses.

While images of hedonistic pleasures often come to mind, the Regency era was also steeped in manners, honor, and duty. If a girl was discovered to have been alone with a man, she was instantly considered ruined. The family expected the man to marry her, thus saving her from such a terrible fate. No one considered a ruined girl a good match. People shuddered at the thought of addressing a person to whom they had not yet been properly introduced. It was always best to be introduced by someone who knew them both. And ladies who walked up to a gentleman and addressed him was considered ill-mannered.

The Regency era was also a time of great change. The Industrial revolution was making commoners wealthier than some aristocrats, education became more readily available to the average person, and new churches preached morality to the lower classes. The nobility feared a repeat of the French Revolution because of the riots and the American revolution and, more recently, the War of 1812.

I love Regencies because I love the way they spoke so eloquently. Reading Jane Austen is almost like ready poetry. Each word was carefully chosen for its beautiful wording, imagery and cadence. There was no mauling the language by the upper classes. They also had a great deal of wit. Indeed, wit was prized and they excelled in using the understatement.

Women had more freedom than in the Victorian era. Women, particularly widows, had money, power and fun unlike the Victorian era which turned widows into black-clad hermits expected to mourn all their lives. In the Regency era, men did not keep their wives under their thumb. In fact, they each had their own interests, hobbies, and friends.

Regency men were educated and were taught to dance, read and recite poetry from a young age. They were athletic; they hunted, raced, fenced, rode horses. They were manly. Strong. Noble. Resolute. Honorable. And that is why I love them.

Free Read Book Group

At the request of a couple of readers, we're starting a free read book group, details on my website. If this interests you, we'd love to have you join us.



Deja Vu Lover by Phoebe Matthews, Vintage Rose

The 19th Amendment Declared Constitutional

February 27 – the 19th Amendment Declared Constitutional

On August 18, 1920, women were finally given the federal right to vote with the ratification of the 19th amendment. But the fight didn't end there. An evident appeal (because a quick google search is not finding the information I want) to the courts on the the constitutionality of the amendment ended on February 27, 1922 with the court ruling that the amendment giving women the right to vote was indeed constitutional.

The amendment reads:
Section 1. The right of the citizens of the United States to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of sex.
Section 2. Congress shall have power to enforce this article by appropriate legislation.

And it took from 1776 until 1920, and thousands of women and men, to get the right to vote for women.

Abigail Adams, wife of the future president, wrote to her husband John, who was then a member of the Continental Congress, to “Remember the Ladies.” But he shouldn't be thought of too badly when he didn't. The right vote, at that time, was not as equal as it is now, not even for white men, but that's another story.

In 1848, Seneca Falls, NY hosts the first women's rights convention in the United States. A “Declaration of Sentiments and Resolutions” is signed by participants. The declaration outlines the issues, concerns and goals of the woman's movement. Seneca Falls was the first of many woman's rights meetings.

In 1869, Wyoming organizes with a woman's suffrage provision. When it's admitted into the Union in 1890, the provision intact. Wyoming is the first state to allow women to vote.
In 1872, Susan B. Anthony is arrested in Rochester, NY for attempting to vote in the Senatorial election. She is tried in June of 1873 and found guilty by a judge who made up his mind before the trial had even started. Judge Hunt declares, "The Fourteenth Amendment gives no right to a woman to vote, and the voting by Miss Anthony was in violation of the law." For a detailed description of this case check out The Trial of Susan B. Anthony.

In 1878 A Woman Suffrage Amendment is introduced into Congress. It does not pass.
In 1893, Colorado adopts a state amendment enfranchising women.

By 1912, nine western states have adopted women suffrage legislation. Others have challenged male-only voting laws in the courts.

Montana elects and sends to Congress the first female Representative, Jeannette Ranks in 1916.
On May 21, 1919, the House of Representatives passes the amendment first introduced in 1878. It is relatively unchanged from when it is first brought before Congress. Two weeks later, the Senate follows suit. Tennessee is the 36th state to ratify the amendment on August 18, 1920, thus making it law.

It is not to be thought, however, that this was an easy road, from introduction to ratification. Susan's arrest and trail was only one of many hardships women faced in their pursuit to equal voting rights. Perhaps the most shocking was the arrest of protesters by the command of none other than the President of the United Sates, Woodrow Wilson.

From the day before he takes into office on March 13, 1913, suffrage supporters hound him. Alice Paul manages to gather 5,000 people from every state in the union to march on Washington the day before the inauguration. Through the next several years, Paul organizes the protests outside the White House with banners reading “Mr. President, what will you do for woman suffrage?” and the like. The police stood by and watch as angry crowds punch, kick, choke and drag the protesters.

First harassed, then arrested, the protesters are sent to a work house for 60 days as punishment. There, they suffer beatings, forced feeding, and unsanitary conditions. When Paul goes on a hunger strike to protest her treatment, she is forced fed with a tube and threatened with commitment to an insane asylum. All because she wants to vote. Paul remains unfaltering in her belief. Wilson is forced to realize he is in a political land mine and needs to act.
The U.S. involvement in the World War I actually helps the movement. How can we claim we are bringing freedom to the world, while deny half our population the fundamental right to vote? Between the human rights we claim to be giving in the war and the treatment of the suffragans at home, Wilson finally declares his support for the amendment.

For more information and Wilson and Paul's actions during this time, check out PBS's page on Wilson and the Alice Paul page.

So, women, rejoice....on this day, the U. S. Supreme Court upheld as constitutional our right to vote!

Here's a detailed timeline of the history of suffrage.

Anna Kathryn Lanier
http://www.aklanier.com/

Release Day

Sometimes I thought this day would never come! But RD--Release Day--is upon me! I'm very excited that Black Swan is now available. I was thrilled with my beautiful cover and with all the help I received from my editor.

Black Swan is the story of lovers separated by differences greater than fear of commitment and fear of abandonment. Tristan is a vampire, and Carol is a Black Swan, mortals who willingly submit to the vampire to experience the euphoria of the Kiss.

The Claddagh Ring released today!

Hi everyone. I'm so excited to have The Claddagh Ring, a St. Patrick's Day book released today. And what better time to get in the spirit of the wearin' of the green! It's a book about finding love when wearing an ancient ring with a magic spell. Come by and visit my website for a peek at the book trailer and a chance to win a Claddagh Ring on St. Patrick's Day. Good luck! Here's a bit about the story. Thanks for reading.

THE CLADDAGH RING is now available. To celebrate, I am having a contest!

Do you believe in the magic bestowed in the Claddagh? According to legend, the wearer of The Claddagh Ring will be blessed with love, friendship and loyalty forevermore
This ancient tradition has been going strong for over three hundred years. Want to win a Claddagh Ring blessed with the wink of St. Patrick himself?
Visit my website for rules and you will be entered in my contest. A winner for this gold ring with an emerald stone will be announced on my website on St. Patrick’s Day!

This contest runs from February 25 to March 17th. Good luck!

And don’t forget to visit my website for a peek at the book trailer.
www.sharonadonovan.com

The Claddagh is said to bring eternal love and lasting friendship to its wearer. The design consists of two hands holding a heart and a crown on top of the heart. The heart represents love, the hands friendship—and the crown designates loyalty. But in order for the ring to cast its mystical spell, it needs to be worn in a certain way.
If worn on the right hand with the heart facing outward, this means the heart is open to love. If worn on the left hand with the heart facing outward, it means the wearer is taken. But when the ring is worn on the left hand with the heart facing inward, the wearer has found true love for all eternity and will be forever blessed.

Being part Irish, I was born with a superstitious nature. Totally awed by this legend, I was inspired to write The Claddagh Ring, a White Rose rosette of 34 pages. Because I had the pleasure of touring the Atlantic Breakers and the Cliffs of Moher, part of my book takes place in County Clare.

The Atlantic Breakers pound the west coast of the county, sculpting the grey limestone into a myriad of shapes, the most notorious the Cliffs of Moher. A rich plethora of birdlife as puffins and shags dominate these rugged cliffs, adding to the savage grandeur. Beneath the rocks, the waves have spread a thin dusting of golden sand, said to be sprinkled by angel wings. Standing on these cliffs with the wind at my back and the sun on my face, I truly enjoyed writing The Claddagh Ring. Here is a blurb and excerpt.

“To live in the hearts we leave behind is to never die.”
Thomas Campbell

Struggling with her faith after her mother’s death, Meghan O’Malley finds comfort in wearing her Claddagh Ring, said to be blessed by St. Patrick. And when Meghan meets Rork, she finds love, loyalty and friendship. But before everything comes full circle, Meghan must face the biggest challenge of her life.

Rork McGuire is ruggedly handsome, sings Celtic music straight from his soul—and has a deep secret. When he sees Meghan O’Malley tending bar at her club, he falls hopelessly in love with her and wants to give her his heart. Will the secret he harbors pull them together—or break them apart?

Excerpt

As Meghan mixed drinks from behind the bar of The Wild Irish Rose, the fiddle and violin captured the true essence of Ireland. The tantalizing aroma of Irish stew, corn beef and cabbage and Irish soda bread wafted through the room.
Suddenly, all activity came to a halt as the eerie wail of bagpipes keened through the bar. The lead singer took center stage with his rendition of Danny Boy, the haunting lyrics crawling into Meghan’s skin. Mesmerized by his hypnotic blue eyes, she stopped what she was doing and met his penetrating gaze. With the exception of her mother, she’d never heard anyone pluck the strings of the harp with such finesse. The Claddagh Ring on her right hand felt hot, the heart pressing into her skin. By the time the song ended, Meghan’s green eyes were misty with tears.
“Well now, darlin’,” he touched her cheek. “If I knew Danny Boy would make you cry, I’d a sung When Irish Eyes are Smiling.”
Meghan Shannon O’Malley lost herself in pools of midnight blue.
“I’m Rork,” the corners of his eyes crinkled when he smiled. He took her right hand and kissed the heart on her ring. “Single and looking, are ya?”
“Huh?”
“The Claddagh Ring, darlin’,” he kissed it again. “On your right hand with the heart facing outward, means you’re single and looking for romance.”
“Ah…I have no idea what you’re talking about; it’s just a ring, a gift from my mother.”
“Ah, come on now, darlin’ girl,” he got a little closer, staring into her eyes. “Ya can’t fool an Irishman. My mother bought one for each of my sisters. I’ll have ya know they’re all married.”
Meghan felt lightheaded. “My mother gave me this ring the night before she died. It’s a family heirloom, said to be blessed by St. Patrick himself. Mama promised me by wearing the Claddagh, everything in my life would come full circle. So before you go thinking I’m wearing it to find a husband, think again.”
“Do you believe in love at first sight?” his blue eyes seared into hers like lasers. “What do ya say, Meghan, darlin’ girl of my heart.”

The Claddagh Ring Available Now!
www.thewildrosepress.com
Sharon Donovan
Romantic Suspense with a Twist of Faith

Three weeks till Seventh Heaven’s release!

By Cate Masters
On March 19, visit http://catemasters.blogspot.com/ for a chance to win a copy of Seventh Heaven! That’s the day TWRP will release my Vintage Rosette story set in the late 1960s. I incorporated the music I loved while growing up in the Lambertville/New Hope area, where the story is set. The hero, James, is named for James Paul McCartney (pardon me, I should say “Sir” these days), my childhood idol. The Music Circus existed until the late Seventies, and Judy Collins did perform there, as she does in my story. But I won’t give too much away – you’ll have to come back on March 19 to try to win a copy, or go to the Wild Rose Press site and purchase a copy!
The excerpt follows the trailer, below.



Here’s the excerpt:
James stands in the open doorway. The choker gleams from his neck. “I came by to say thanks.”
The distance she’d felt between them last night is gone. His warm eyes search hers, reaching again for a connection.
“I didn’t know it was you.” She steps from behind the counter. No more barriers between them.
He closes the door. “So. Thanks.”
“You’re welcome. It looks good. It’s an--”
“An ankh. I know.” Something seems to be holding him back, but somehow she knows she must be patient, let him come to her.
“The Egyptian symbol of eternity.” She doesn’t know what to do with her hands, and her breath is jagged. “Sorry. I mean, Ben told us. It really stinks you’re leaving.”
He runs a finger across a glazed jug. “Bad timing.”
She clasps her hands in front of her. “I guess it’s never a good time…”
He glances up and flashes a switchblade smile. “I mean, I wish we had more time.” His soft voice rushes at her like the wind and billows the sails of her heart’s rocky boat.
The air thins, seems rarified. “Me, too.”
He takes a step closer. Time feels maddeningly slow. She wants to run to him, fill her arms with him.
She folds her arms. “I hope you’ll write me, if you get a chance.”
“Yeah?”
He’s within arm’s reach. His gaze flows over her inch by inch, over every curve and hollow.
The floor needs sweeping. And needs to be smaller. Or his steps need to be more expansive. “Sure, I’ll keep you up on the local gossip. Send you goodie packages.” A lock of her hair. A photo of herself so he’ll think of her every day. And night.
His eyes lock on hers. “That’d be nice.”
“We’re going to miss you around here.”
“You will?” The timbre of his voice rumbles inside her like an earthquake.
With his last step, he is so close her skin tingles with his heat. “No one can make a margarita like you.”
He fingers her hair, tucks a strand behind her shoulder. “Come back tonight. I’ll make you all the margaritas you can drink.”
In her head she is already there, sipping at a wide-rimmed glass, serenaded by Dylan in the background, James attending to her alone. “OK.”
“See you about seven, then?”
She smiles. “Seven it is.”
He backs toward the door, slowly, as if still taking her in. The silver ankh winks in the light as he turns to leave.

Visit Cate Masters online at http://catemasters.ning.com/ or http://catemasters.blogspot.com or friend her on Facebook (as C.A. Masterson)

Bow Street Runners

Bow Street Runners, Legends and Facts

Next to Robin Hood’s Merry Men, few other groups inspire images of mystery and intrigue quite as well as Bow Street Runners. They were a unique and unprecedented fighting force that paved the way for the modern police. They are also no longer in existence, and very little is actually known about them. Hence the mystery. And the tragedy.

Before they were formed, there was no organized police. The few constables in London were untrained and failed to do much to protect the innocent or bring justice to the guilty. There was a night watch that was supposed to be served on a rotating basis by the men in a particular district, but most working class men wouldn’t or couldn’t be up all night keeping watch. Besides, it was dangerous. So they hired out others to take their turn, often elderly men who needed the money because they could no longer work. These night watchmen typically huddled in groups around the nearest light and hoped no one would harass them. Needless to say, they were too feeble to affect much of a threat to a thief.

Therefore, the majority of the arrests were performed by the average citizen. The citizen who’d been wronged had to gather all his own evidence, perform the arrest, drag the person before the magistrate (judge) and convince the magistrate this was their man. Investigator, policeman, and lawyer all in one. A daunting task, to be sure. Although since the accused were considered guilty unless proven innocent, receiving a guilty verdict was usually a no-brainer.

Into this ineffective chaos step the Fielding brothers. Henry Fielding was a magistrate who operated his office on Bow Street. In 1750, he organized an elite fighting force of highly trained and disciplined young men known as the Bow Street Runners. Nick-named the “Robins Redbreasts” for their distinctive red waistcoats, they knew how to conduct investigations including a rudimentary forensics, and question witnesses and victims. They even carried handcuffs. How early they began carrying them and wearing the red waistcoats is anyone’s guess but there are Bow Street Runners with handcuffs and red waistcoats in a book by Robert Louis Stevenson.

In the early years, there were only six Bow Street Runners in London and for some reason, that number was kept constant. But later, those figures grew and there was even a mounted patrol who protected the highways from the dreaded and dangerous highwaymen. The patrol changed safety, and therefore nature, of travel.

While the office of a magistrate belonged exclusively to gentlemen of the nobility or gentry, the Bow Street Runners were working class men. They were smart, skilled and cunning, and hand-picked by the Fielding brothers. Though they typically remained in the London area, there are accounts of them tracking fugitives as far as the Scottish border. They drew a modest salary from Bow Street, so most of their pay came in the form of a bounty or reward, usually paid by the victim or a group who had a vested interest in solving the crime. Runners could also be hired out to conduct special investigations, or act as body guards. I have found no evidence of any foul play or briberies taken, suggesting that they were men of honor and that they had a strong loyalty to their magistrate.

Other magistrates followed the Fielding’s example by having a specific group of investigators, but none achieved the acclaim that the Runners did.

In 1830, when Scotland Yard was organized, the Bow Street Runners became obsolete. Much of Scotland Yard’s procedures were adopted from those created by the Runners, and I can only assume that many Runners became investigators for Scotland Yard. Progress is usually a good thing, but I feel a sense of loss whenever such a unique organization is swept away to make room for something better. And yes, I’m plotting a book with a Bow Street Runner as the hero.

Your fortune cookie for the coming week -

Deja Vu Lover by Phoebe Matthews, Vintage Rose

He broke her heart in another lifetime and now he's back!

April could have used a good fortune cookie. Here's one for next week:

2/23 Monday - AN EXHAUSTING WEEK, A FEW CONFRONTATIONS, BUT HEY, THERE IS EVERY CHANCE THAT CONFLICT WILL LEAD TO GROWTH. HANG IN THERE, PRACTICE PATIENCE AND THROW IN A LITTLE KINDNESS.
Check Phoebe's website for more information, video, free read offer and more -

Inspiration for the Writer's Soul

Writing is hard. It’s a tough business filled with highs and lows, and countless hours of isolation. Your non-writer friends and family won’t understand “why” your novel isn’t published yet. They don’t understand the publishing business and there’s no use trying to put it into perspective. They won’t get it. Think back to the first minute you decided you wanted to write a novel. At that time, did you have any idea what time and effort you would expend to make that dream a reality? One of my favorite quotes is by Ernest Hemingway: “There is nothing to writing. All you do is sit down at a typewriter and bleed.”

Writers tap into their innermost fears, desires, and pain and instill them into their characters. Where else can you kill off your enemies and not go to jail for life? I can admit to exacting revenge on the ex-husbands of two of my daughters. I’m looking forward to plotting the demise of my boss very soon. Then there’s the romance. I am very much in love with my husband and I wouldn’t dream of cheating on him in real life, but I do take great pleasure in creating a hero who…well, never mind. You get the gist.

And why do I write? Because I can’t NOT write. Writers are driven to bleed onto the blank screen, painstakingly eking out every word, every sentence, every scene. So take heart. Whenever you feel like giving up, remember each of us goes through the same doubts, fears, highs and lows. You aren’t alone.


ISBN: 978-1601543219
2009 CAPA Nominee
2009 EPPIE Finalist

Carol Ann Erhardt
My Website
Inside the Writer's Mind
Keeping Hope Alive
White Roses in Bloom

Wishing you love and good fortune -

2/16 Monday - A WEEK FOR OLD FRIENDS AND IDEAS TO COME TOGETHER, BUT DON’T GO OVERBOARD WITH THE EMOTIONS. COOL PREVAILS, GETS RESULTS. THIS WEEK ENDS WITH SECRETS. YOURS? SOMEONE ELSE’S?
- for more check http://phoebematthews.com

"He broke her heart in another lifetime and now he's back!"  Deja Vu Lover by Phoebe Matthews.  This Vintage Rose book takes you from modern Seattle to 1925 Hollywood for a love story that will warm your heart.

The Sweetheart Dance

My latest release, The Sweetheart Dance, is out today. Isn't my cover gorgeous? Thanks, Angela Anderson. I thought I’d drop in and post an excerpt for your reading pleasure! Happy Valentine's Day!

THE SWEETHEART DANCE
Patti Ann Colt

Back Cover Blurb:
Although Echo Falls high school teacher Meg Applegate aches to belong to Bret Cara body and soul, he maintains a hands-off policy. She is wife material and violates his no relationship philosophy based on years with combative parents. But when a practical joker spikes Meg’s drinks at the Valentine’s Day Sweetheart Dance, Bret comes to her rescue – and she astounds him with a hot, sensual kiss.

Assisting the police department in tracking teen felons, Meg takes the opportunity to snag the handsome cop’s attention and they launch an affair based on Bret’s ‘no strings’ rules. But each searing encounter conflicts with her beliefs and dreams. She cannot maintain their bargain forever, but despite making love he seems no closer to giving her what she needs. When Meg’s conscience demands more from him, will Bret walk away or deliver his heart?

Excerpt:
“Why don’t you explain not interested to me?” Meg's quiet tone challenged. “I could have sworn interested was the message you sent when we kissed.”
Bret’s heart jumped into his throat. This was exactly what he feared. “I don’t have relationships. I have women in my life for sex.”
She shrugged. “Okay. Let’s have sex.”
He choked on his spit. “No,” he finally managed. He seized her plate of half-eaten pie and retreated to the kitchen sink.
She licked her fork and dogged him. “Why not? I’m more than willing.”
He hardened at the thought, his jeans becoming painfully tight. “Because you won’t have sex with me and walk away. Your heart will get involved. You’ll expect things, and that’s where I can’t comply, so it’s better not to start.”
She leaned against the door frame and stared at him, then licked her fork one more time. Shivers raced up his arms and into his hair. He couldn’t take his eyes off her tongue.
“You don’t know that.” She offered him her fork.
He snatched the cold steel utensil from her hand and put it in the dishwasher. “So you’ll walk into my bedroom, stay naked for a couple of days of hot, wild sex, and then leave?” He stared at the touchable, ivory skin just above her neckline.
She licked her lips. “So, you’ve thought about hot wild sex, too.”
He closed his eyes, a hair’s breadth away from losing control.

Yes, Valentine's Day Is Evil

But that's the cynic in me talking. Though this year will be a good one for me. See Megan Run has been nominated for Best Book of the Week at the Long and Short of it Review site. I just may wake up tomorrow morning with a spring in my step, smile on my face, and flutters of nerves in my stomach.

So, what do ya have to do. VOTE FOR SEE MEGAN RUN. I've made it easy for you by linking it twice in this blog.

And, if you want to know more about who I am. *You know if you don't recognize me from the brillant Publishing Limbo posts* You can find me here. Or here.

If that isn't enough linkage in one post, you can read my Free Short Story. Just for Valentine's Day. Yes, I wrote one even though I think the day is evil. I'm so contrary.

~Melissa Blue and I'm out.~

Is Valentine's Day Evil?

St. Valentine is known as the patron saint of lovers, and was an Christian martyr in 3rd century Rome. Unfortunately, historians, don’t know who, exactly, he was.

Some say he was bishop who converted a Roman family to Christianity.

One of the most popular accounts identify him as Valentinus, a Roman priest who defied the decree of Claudius II which forbade Romans to marry (apparently he believed married men were weak soldiers and wanted a strong army). Supposedly the priest Valentinus secretly married many couples. Although he had the blessings of the underground Christian church, his actions were a crime in Roman law. He was discovered, imprisoned, and ultimately executed. I read one account that claimed while he was in prison, he befriended the jailer's daughter and cured her blindness. He is said to have left her a farewell letter, which he signed "from your Valentine."

In 496, Pope Gelasius declared February 14 as a day to honor St. Valentine.

St. Valentine's Day has become a day to exchange love messages and gifts. In the 18th Century, people exchanged decorated Valentine cards. These Valentines were handmade and often quite elaborate. The tradition grew and became widely popular during the Victorian Era.

I’m a hopeless romantic. I love everything to do with love and Valentine’s day is no exception. I must admit, sometimes upon learning that my children are having valentine’s parties, my first reaction is to groan because now I must add to my always daunting “to do” list, is ‘pick up Valentines and candy’ for them to exchange with their classmates However, I love the day to remind me to take time to show my husband how much he means to me.

He, unfortunately, has the opposite reaction. Because my expectations are there, he sees Valentine’s Day as a time that puts pressure on him. We’ve had some memorable Valentine’s Days, either because they were terrible and resulted in feelings of rejection or inadequacy, or because one or both of us took the time to plan something really romantic. We’ve also had some forgettable Valentine’s Days.

The thing is, whatever my husband does, I’m just happy he came through and put a little thought into his gift or time with me.

I guess I’m happy I’m not a guy. I mean, men are pretty simple.
He’s happy something if I bake or buy a special dessert or dress up in a sexy negligee, they appear happy. One year we planned to meet and home and go out to lunch. I sprinkled rose pedals from the front door to the bedroom and we had lunch at home. He loved it. It can't be that easy for men.

I think most men see it as some kind of test to see if they remember how to be romantic. They seem to feel like they’re on the spot for Valentines. Perhaps that they have to compete with past years and try to top it or face an unhappy wife, girlfriend, or significant other.

I’m sure most men think Valentine’s Day is evil and that we should just boycott it.

So, girls, we need to rescue the men.
Step one: Go ahead and mention a few reminders that Valentine’s Day is coming up. Don’t rely on TV or radio to remind them. One year, I even sent him to the store to pick up something for dinner, and mentioned how I’d been there earlier and what cute Valentine’s stuff they had sitting out. He came home with exactly what I’d sent him to find. And nothing for Valentine’s Day. That fits into a memorable Valentine’s Day. In a bad way.

Step two: when he asks you what you want or what you want to do, tell him. Don’t think if he really knew you, he’d know. Men are loveable, but clueless. Spell it out for him. His lack of imagination or planning has nothing to do with his feelings for you.

Men, here’s what she wants:
If the lady in your life says "I don't know." What she means, is do something that requires thought and planning and surprise me. She’s probably trying to take the pressure off by not making unreasonable demands. Odds are, what she really wants to spend time, alone, with you.

My new story: Taking Advantage

I now have a cover for my new Vintage Rose story, Taking Advantage. The setting is high school in 1949. Zack and Gloria are seniors and Zack has been in love with her since she came from a nearby Junior High school but he's afraid to tell her. She's been basketball queen for four years now and her mother thinks she should only date the sports figures in school. Zack couldn't make any of the teams. Zack's own feeling of inadequacy, Gloria's strict mother and the three arrogant jocks stand in his way.

As soon as I get a release date I'll pass that along and include an excerpt. Thanks to Nicola for the nice cover and Nan for editing this story.

Broken Hero gets an award!

I'm happy to see that my WWII romance novel Broken Hero came thirteenth on the best romance category and equalled tenth in the best cover awards at the P & E website!

Thanks for your votes!

Anne Whitfield

http://www.annewhitfield.com

A LOVE LONG DESIRED CAN QUICKLY BE DESTROYED

At last wed to the woman he has desired for so long, Riven kan Ingan discovers that old hatreds and long ago grudges aren't absolved by wedding vows. In an attempt to protect his young wife from his enemies, he accepts a title from the Margrave, taking her away to lead the dull existence of a country noble's lady. Married life may have made Riven a love-struck fool, but he refuses to be a cuckold when he returns from battle to discover his beloved Barbara pregnant with a child he couldn't have sired. In fury at her supposed unfaithfulness, he risks the wrath of the gods and sends her to her death, only to find himself driven from his domain by a deadly curse. Haunted by Barbara's memory, Riven begins a quest to find the one who accursed him. In the years that follow, his journey will take him to the land of his birth, where he'll discover long-hidden family secrets and find himself dependent upon a barbarian woman's gentle mercy to help him rid himself of the remnants of the Blood Curse.





Blood Curse is now available as an ebook or in print from Double Dragon Publications, www.double-dragon-ebooks.com/ It is the second book in The Chronicles of Riven the Heretic series. Book One--Bloodseek--is also available as a download or paperback.

DEJA VU LOVER, had she but known -

She thinks her memories of 1925 Hollywood and a romantic actor are all a dream. 

What April needed was a good fortuneteller to guide her to her true love.

Here is next week's fortune so that you can plan ahead -

2/9 Monday - YOU STILL HAVE GOOD IDEAS GOING FOR YOU IF YOU USE THEM TO WIND UP PROJECTS. ON WEDNESDAY, YOU MIGHT LEAN MORE TOWARD PERSONAL CREATIVITY. THIS COULD APPLY TO YOUR LOVELIFE, UM, YAH, TIME TO KEEP THOSE PROMISES TO YOUR VALENTINE.

If you love a heartwarming love story, order Deja Vu Lover by Phoebe Matthews thru Vintage Rose.

Win a free print book today!

I am featured on the On the Write Track blog today. You can win a free copy of my hot-off-the-presses print Faery Rose DO YOU HEAR WHAT I HEAR?, HOOFBEATS & HEARSTRINGS BOOK ONE. All you have to do is leave a comment on the blog for your chance to win. Easy peasy.

Here's the link for the blog:

http://www.on-the-write-track.blogspot.com/

And here's a litte bit about the book!

Blurb:

As a child, Simone Littleton adores the European folktale that animals are given the gift of speech at midnight on Christmas Eve. She makes a wish to talk to animals “forever and ever” and, when her pet Dalmatian asks her for a biscuit, she discovers her wish has been granted. Now Simone is all grown up and she uses her unique gift to rehabilitate unwanted horses. When race horse trainer Chet Wallace rolls into San Antonio, with chocolate eyes and dimples blazing beneath his black Stetson, romantic sparks fly. He is immediately drawn to the beautiful woman who has a mesmerizing affect on both his horses and his dog, but his less than enthusiastic response to Simone’s claims threatens their budding romance. It takes a scheming Jack Russell terrier and a fresh batch of rescue horses to convince Chet she just may be telling the truth.

What the critics are saying:

Do You Hear What I Hear named Fallen Angels Review Recommended Read with a 5/5 Angels rating!

"I was so enchanted with this charming tale that I read it straight through in one sitting. I loved the special affinity for animals, and Simone’s conversations with some of the animals were cute and funny. But the way some of the other people in the story treated Simone almost broke my heart; it seemed so unfair. Human nature often fears and ridicules what they don’t understand so it was very believable. This story is my first taste of the work of Teri Wilson but it will not be my last. Ms. Wilson imparts a style and spirit into her work that I love, and I want to read all her works. If you love magic, romance, and animals, Do You Hear What I Hear? is a must read Christmas story. I highly recommend this enchanting, magical tale! And as a special bonus this book promises to be just the first of a series of books by Ms. Wilson called Hoofbeats and Heartstrings. I can’t wait for the next installment!"Reviewed by: Stephanie B., Fallen Angels Reviews

Do You Hear What I Hear named Recommended Read by CK2S Kwips & Kritiques with a 5/5 rating!

"I was totally charmed by this book from the first page. Teri Wilson creates a wonderful slate of characters, human, canine and equine, that grab your heart and won’t let go. Do You Hear What I Hear? was well developed and the perfect reading choice for the holiday season when we all need a break from the hustle and bustle and long to curl up in a soft corner with a steaming cup of cocoa and a heartwarming read. I loved the unique career that Simone had developed for herself and enjoyed all the scenes about the horse rescue ranch. While part of a series, this book stands alone.

Animal Rescue organizations have a special place in my heart, so discovering that Do You Hear What I Hear? was benefiting horse rescue was particularly gratifying. As described on the author’s website: Hoofbeats & Heartstrings is a series of romance novels celebrating love, miracles and the beauty of horses. A portion of the proceeds from all the Hoofbeats & Heartstrings novels will go directly to help horses in need at Saddlebred Rescue. For more information about this wonderful organization, you can visit their website at http://www.saddlebredrescue.com/ Do yourself, and the rescue horses benefiting from the sales of this book, a favor and pick up your copy today. You are sure to be enchanted. The second book in the series is due out in March."
Reviewed by Crystal, CK2S Kwips & Kritiques

Do You Hear What I Hear?, Hoofbeats & Heartstrings Book One is available NOW in print at Amazon.com.

Blessings, Teri

Teri Wilson ~ Romancing the pet lover's soul

www.teriwilson.net

New Release ~ Dilemma of the Heart

My post-Civil War Inspirational romance story, Dilemma of the Heart, released yesterday. I’m very excited about this release as it is my first historical with The Wild Rose Press.

Blurb:
Cassandra Huddleston has a dilemma. Her heart still resides with her sweetheart, Frederick Adair, reported as killed in action at the close of the Civil War. Now she has a new suitor, Emerson Bryce, powerful, attractive, and dominant; he usually gets what he wants. Cassandra must decide if she can forget the man of her heart and learn to love the man offering her a future.

As she struggles with her feelings, Cassandra is faced with the possibility that Frederick’s death might have been greatly exaggerated. If that is true, will Emerson be willing to let her go?

Excerpt #1
Placing her hat on the bench, she removed the golden charm from around her neck and held it in the palm of her hand. She opened it and admired the lock of lovely golden brown hair held inside. She touched the strands of Frederick’s hair, the softness causing deep emotions to stir within her. A hand came to her mouth to stifle the sob forming in her throat. With him, she had formed all her hopes and dreams. All that was gone. Now the future only seemed to spread before her like an empty, desolate land.

Lord, why? Why did you allow Frederick to die? Why did he have to leave me? Why? Huge tears began to tumble down her cheeks.

Snapping the locket shut, she shot to her feet as her hands bunched into fists. These thoughts were a poison to her soul. It was as if she was determined to make herself continue in perpetual grief. Her life had become a vale of tears and she was tired of it. She had to let him go if only to allow her heart to rest. She knew that would only come by allowing God to heal her pain but she couldn’t. If she permitted herself to stop hurting over Frederick, it would be like admitting she had forgotten him.

Excerpt #2
Frederick began to move toward her, his strides determined and sleek. “And how shall I address you when you’re married?” His voice drawled into a low and provocative tone, making her heart give a little leap.

She made the mistake of gazing into those deep, wonderful eyes of his and forgot to breathe as his eyes, no longer playful, seared into her, down to her beating heart. When she was finally able to gulp some air, her lungs began to pump again. “You may call me Cassandra as you always have…I hope.” Her voice came out breathy and weak.

“Oh, no, I don’t believe that would be proper.” He stepped right in front of her face and touched his forehead to hers. In that moment, it felt as if a dozen butterflies had been released inside her stomach. He grabbed her around the waist, but before he had the chance to kiss her, she returned to her senses. Pushing off from his chest, she moved down toward the stalls, keeping her back to him as she held a hand over her galloping heart.



Available Now at The Wild Rose Press.


Cindy
http://cindykgreen.com/
http://cindykgreen.blogspot.com/

WIN A TEN DOLLAR GIFT CERTICATE

Hi. Win a THE WILD ROSE PRESS gift certificate by visiting my website and commenting on my guest book. This month's question asks you to tell about one of your favorite authors and books. On or about March 1st, I'll draw a winner for a ten dollar gift certificate from THE WILD ROSE PRESS.

www.aklanier.com

The hot dusty town of Salvation, Texas has more than its share of secrets in 1873 when Laura Ashton's stage rolls into town. Sheriff David Slade has no idea what baggage his mail-order bride is bringing into his life. Throw in the nightmares from his Civil War days and he's got more than courting to contend with. Laura's a woman ahead of her time, a woman trained in medicine. And she's got a will that could move mountains. Unfortunately, the only mountains in Salvation are in Sheriff Slade's memory. Can the determined doctor heal his pain, or will the dark secret in her past turn up to steal his Salvation Bride?

Anna Kathryn Lanier
http://www.aklanier.com/

Broken Hero review!

Just found this lovely review done by Sandie at FAR for my WWII romance, Broken Hero!
http://www.fallenangelreviews.com/2009/January/Sandie-BrokenHero.htm

Buy From Amazon

http://www.amazon.com/Broken-Hero-Anne-Whitfield/dp/1601542267/ref=ed_oe_p

Regards, Anne.~

http://www.annewhitfield.com/

http://annewhitfield.blogspot.com/