Tag: Historical Romance

Regency Turns 80 — Royal Escape

Silhouettes of a man and woman in Regency dress against a background of the number 80

Royal Escape stands alone in Georgette Heyer’s oeuvre, since it is the only novel she wrote which is set in the Cromwellian period and focuses on England’s Civil War. Today, Alicia Quigley, reader and writer of romance novels, shares her views on this unique Heyer story. The hero of this tale is the dashing and charming young Charles II. Though Alicia tells us there are no traditional romantic elements in this novel, might there be some non-traditional ones? The hero is certainly the gallant and irresistible young prince, but is the heroine, the woman who cares for him, the author of this book or the reader?

All visitors are welcome to share their ideas about this story and historical novels, romantic or otherwise, in comments to this article.

Continue reading “Regency Turns 80 — Royal Escape“ →

Regency Turns 80 — Cousin Kate

Silhouettes of a man and woman in Regency dress against a background of the number 80

There are at least a few of Georgette Heyer’s readers who have found her novel, Cousin Kate, something of an anomaly within her oeuvre. In today’s article, best-selling author, Heather Hiestand, explores what makes this novel unique among Heyer’s Regency romances. In fact, do you think this novel qualifies as a romance? And, would you use the same abbreviation to label the heroine as Heather has applied to her?

Whether you have views on Cousin Kate or the Regency genre in general, please feel free to post them in comments to this article.

Continue reading “Regency Turns 80 — Cousin Kate“ →

Regency Turns 80 — The Conqueror

Silhouettes of a man and woman in Regency dress against a background of the number 80

Georgette Heyer’s second Medieval novel is The Conqueror. However, unlike her first Medieval, Simon the Coldheart, this story is not about a fictional character. It is about a real character from history, William, Duke of Normandy, the only man ever to conquer Britain. Today, romance author, Regan Walker, gives us some insights into this historical novel which is populated with a host of real characters from Medieval European history. Though Regan finds the romance between the main characters sadly lacking, she does share with us that a pair of secondary characters do find true love in this book. Do you prefer historical novels populated only with fictional characters, or do you like a few real historical figures thrown into the mix?

All are welcome to post their views on this novel, or historical romance in general, in comments to this article.

Continue reading “Regency Turns 80 — The Conqueror“ →

Regency Turns 80 — Black Sheep

Silhouettes of a man and woman in Regency dress against a background of the number 80

We have a very special treat in store for us today. Romance author, Cara King, has invited along her particular friend to discuss Black Sheep, one of her favorites among Georgette Heyer’s Regencies. Cara and her friend, Bertie, have rather different views on the characters and the setting of this story. They even differ on whether this tale is a romance richly laced with humor or a dismal tragedy. As you read through the transcript of their conversation, you will have to decide which of them best understands Black Sheep.

Dear Readers, please do favor Cara with answers to her questions in comments to this article.

Continue reading “Regency Turns 80 — Black Sheep“ →

Regency Turns 80 — Beauvallet

Silhouettes of a man and woman in Regency dress against a background of the number 80

Though Georgette Heyer wrote dozens of historical novels, she only wrote one set in the Elizabethan period. Today, Regency romance author, Mary Moore, tells us why she enjoyed this novel, even though it is not set in our favorite period. In addition, she explains why this novel is unlikely to meet most publishers’ criteria for a romance in the twenty-first century. And yet, she found it quite the page-turner. Have you read Beauvallet? If so, do you agree with Mary? If you have not read it, will you now put it on your list of Heyer’s novels which must be read?

Everyone is welcome to share their views on Beauvallet, or any aspect of historical romance, in comments to this article.

Continue reading “Regency Turns 80 — Beauvallet“ →

Regency Turns 80 — Frederica

Silhouettes of a man and woman in Regency dress against a background of the number 80

Frederica is one of a handful of Regencies which Georgette Heyer titled with the heroine’s first name. In today’s article, historical romance novelist, Miranda Neville, gives us some tantalizing glimpses into both the humor and romance of the story, combined as only Heyer could. What is your view with regard to Frederica’s late recognition of her love for Alverstoke? Do you consider it a flaw in the story, or the typical response of a young woman of her time and station in life?

All visitors are welcome to share their opinions on Regency romance, or Frederica in particular, in comments to this article.

Continue reading “Regency Turns 80 — Frederica“ →

Regency Turns 80 — False Colours

Silhouettes of a man and woman in Regency dress against a background of the number 80

False Colours is almost certainly the first switched twin story set in Regency England, since it was written by Georgette Heyer, the originator of the Regency romance genre. Today, Regency romance author and reader, Alicia Quigley, shares her memories of reading this story for the first time. She also gives us a glimpse of some of the more interesting characters who play a part in this tale of missing relatives, spendthrift parents and outlandish family friends who complicate the budding romance between the hero and the heroine. In addition, Alicia notes the plethora of Regency cultural information which is to be found in this book. Like Alicia, do you learn new details of the Regency when you read the novels of Georgette Heyer?

All are welcome to post their views on this story, or Regency romances in general, in comments to this article.

Continue reading “Regency Turns 80 — False Colours“ →

Regency Turns 80 — Simon the Coldheart

Silhouettes of a man and woman in Regency dress against a background of the number 80

Over the course of her career, Georgette Heyer wrote only three novels set in medieval times. Simon the Coldheart was the first. In today’s article, romance author, Becca St. John, explains why it is unlikely any romance publisher today would accept this as a new manuscript. But she also shares with us some of the things which attracted her to this story of a strong, determined and honorable man who does seem to have a cold heart. Until he meets an equally "cold" woman who makes the sparks fly between them. Once you have read Becca’s article, will Simon the Coldheart go on your list of must-read Heyers?

All are welcome to share their views on this novel, or the historical romance genre in general, in comments to this article.

Continue reading “Regency Turns 80 — Simon the Coldheart“ →

Regency Turns 80 — The Nonesuch

Silhouettes of a man and woman in Regency dress against a background of the number 80

Best-selling Regency author, Kate Pearce, and her mystery-writing alter ego, Catherine Lloyd, have something in common with Georgette Heyer, whose creation of the Regency romance we are celebrating this year. Like Kate/Catherine, Heyer wrote mysteries as well as romance novels. She even wrote some Regencies which incorporated a mystery. In today’s article, Kate shares her views on The Nonesuch, one of Heyer’s Regencies which begin in London, but then sweeps us off to a remote country village, peopled with a host of fascinating characters. It must be noted that the only mystery in The Nonesuch is what Sir Waldo is going to do with the property he inherited, but this novel is one of Heyer’s best-loved Regencies.

Everyone is welcome to share their views on the Regency romance genre, or this novel in particular, in comments to this post.

Continue reading “Regency Turns 80 — The Nonesuch“ →

Regency Turns 80 — A Civil Contract

Silhouettes of a man and woman in Regency dress against a background of the number 80

Today, award-winning Regency romance author, Julia Justiss, tells us about her very favorite Georgette Heyer novel, A Civil Contract. This is a very delicate love story, one which a modern reader might not fully appreciate on first reading. But once you are prepared with Julia’s insights into this romance, you should find it just as delightful as she does. So, can a plain, shy young lady find true love with a handsome viscount?

All are welcome to share their thoughts on this story, or Regencies in general, in comments to this post.

Continue reading “Regency Turns 80 — A Civil Contract“ →

Regency Turns 80 — The Great Roxhythe

Silhouettes of a man and woman in Regency dress against a background of the number 80

Today, romance author, Andrea K. Stein, enlightens us on what may be Georgette Heyer’s most obscure historical novel, The Great Roxhythe. It is unlikely that many reading this article have ever read this book, for reasons which Andrea will explain. It has been included in Beau Monde’s Regency Turns 80 celebration of Heyer’s work, though sorely it stretches the definition of a romance, as Andrea also explains. Nevertheless, it is one of Heyer’s historical novels, and in the interest of completeness, it deserves our attention.

Whether or not you have read this novel, you are welcome to post your comments to this article.

Continue reading “Regency Turns 80 — The Great Roxhythe“ →

Regency Turns 80 — The Unknown Ajax

Silhouettes of a man and woman in Regency dress against a background of the number 80

Did you know that Georgette Heyer’s Regency novel, The Unknown Ajax has a Shakespearian connection? In today’s article, award-winning Regency romance author, Sheri Cobb South, explains the connection. She also explains why she is particularly fond of this particular story. In addition, she shares her memories as an avid reader of Georgette Heyer in quest of more of her books.

Please feel free to share your views on this book or on Regencies in general in comments to this post.

Continue reading “Regency Turns 80 — The Unknown Ajax“ →

Happy Birthday, Georgette Heyer!!!

Silhouettes of a man and woman in Regency dress against a background of the number 80

Georgette Heyer, whom the Beau Monde is celebrating this year as the "founding mother" of the historical romance genre and the Regency romance sub-genre, was born on Saturday, 16 August 1902. That makes today her one hundred-and-thirteenth birthday. We could not let this momentous occasion pass without marking it with a salute to the author who has given us so many entertaining stories as well as paving the way for all of us who love to write historical romance, especially Regencies.

All visitors are welcome to post their own tributes and birthday greetings to Georgette Heyer in comments to this article.

Continue reading “Happy Birthday, Georgette Heyer!!!” →

Regency Turns 80 — The Convenient Marriage

Silhouettes of a man and woman in Regency dress against a background of the number 80

Romance author Lillian Marek discusses Georgette Heyer’s The Convenient Marriage in today’s article. This Georgian romance was published in 1934, just one year before Regency Buck, the very first Regency novel. The Convenient Marriage is Heyer’s first romance which involves a marriage of convenience, though it would not be her last. Like Lillian, do you enjoy romances which revolve around a marriage of convenience?

Please feel free to share your opinions in comments to this article.

Continue reading “Regency Turns 80 — The Convenient Marriage“ →

Amy Quinton – Featured Beau Monde Author

Amy Quinton is today’s featured Beau Monde author.

Photo of Regency Romance author, Amy QuintonAmy Quinton is an author and full time mom living in Summerville, SC. She enjoys writing (and reading!) sexy, historical romances. She lives with her British husband, two boys, and two cats. In her spare time, she likes to go camping, hiking, and canoeing/kayaking… And did she mention reading? When she’s not reading, cleaning, or traveling, she likes to make jewelry, sew, knit, and crochet (Yay for Ravelry!). Her favorite place to visit is England and the Isle of Skye, Scotland.

Cover image for What The Duke Wants by Amy Quinton
WHAT THE DUKE WANTS
by Amy Quinton
Released: 01/26/15 ISBN: 978-1-62210-184-9 (ebook) 978-1-50330-469-7 (Print)

Continue reading “Amy Quinton – Featured Beau Monde Author” →

Regency Turns 80 — The Black Moth

Silhouettes of a man and woman in Regency dress against a background of the number 80

Almost a century ago, a teenage boy, suffering from hemophilia, was ordered to bed for an extended period of rest. To a bright, eager thirteen year-old, this was a devastating sentence of unutterable boredom. At this time, there were no game consoles, computers, the Internet, or even television. The radio had only recently become available to the public, but the sets were expensive and stations only broadcast a few hours each day. Most of the time, the air waves were silent. Oh, the tedium of it all!

Fortunately, this boy had an older sister who was very fond of him. Like him, she was an avid reader, especially of adventure stories by authors such as Baroness Orczy, Rafael Sabatini and H. Rider Haggard. The children’s father had always encouraged them to read, and there were many books in the house, but after a time, the teenage boy was running out of new stories. His sister decided to write a story for him in the form of a serial, producing multiple new installments for his amusement, which she usually read aloud to him as they were finished. This story was set in the mid-eighteenth century and was filled with much swashbuckling and derring-do. The boy’s name was Boris, and this special gift from his sister, Georgette, would be edited to become her very first published novel, The Black Moth.

Continue reading “Regency Turns 80 — The Black Moth“ →

New Regency Releases for March

New Releases For March 2014
 
 
Wareeze Woodson
AN ENDURING LOVE IS WORTH KEEPING
Soul Mate Publishing
Historical/Some Sexual Contact
Print/eBookBorn and raised in Latvia, Rebecca Balodis marries Rhys Sudduth, an English diplomat. Shortly thereafter, he is summoned home to attend his father’s death-bed. Rebecca cannot accompany him at the time and becomes trapped in the turmoil plaguing her country. He is informed she died in the upheaval.Nearly four years later, she escapes and arrives in London with their son in tow. Arriving in the middle of his sister’s ball is very awkward, especially since Rhys plans to announce his betrothal to a young debutante later in the evening.Trouble, tangled in suspense and danger, follow her from Latvia. Can this pair ever find or even recognize an enduring love? Is it worth keeping?March 26 2014
http://www.wareezewoodson.com/
 
Regan Walker
WIND RAVEN
Boroughs Publishing Group
Historical/Some Sexual Contact
Print/eBookOrdered by the Prince Regent into the Caribbean, English sea captain and former privateer Jean Nicholas Powell has no time for women onboard the Wind Raven, especially not Tara McConnell. The impudent American forced herself aboard, and so she’ll get more than she bargained for: Instead of a direct sail to Baltimore, she’ll join their quest to investigate a rampaging pirate, the infamous Roberto Cofresi.But the hoyden thinks she can crew with his men, and though he bans her from the rigging, Nick is captivated watching her lithe, luscious movements on deck. Facing high seas, storms, cutthroats and the endless unknown, he must protect his ship, his passenger, his crew. But on this voyage, with this woman, there is a greater danger: to his heart.March 7 2014
http://www.reganwalkerauthor.com/
 
Alyssa Everett
AN HEIR OF UNCERTAINTY
Harlequin/Carina Press
Historical/Some Sexual Contact
Print/eBookYorkshire, 1820Lina, Lady Radbourne, thought being a countess would rescue her from poverty. Unfortunately, her young groom failed to plan for the future, and his drunken accident left her widowed and pregnant. Now Colonel Winstead Vaughan—Win—will inherit her late husband’s fortune…unless she gives birth to a boy. Win is her natural enemy, so why can’t she stop thinking about him?Win is stunned to learn he stands to inherit a vast fortune. He’s even more surprised to find himself falling for the beautiful, spirited Lady Radbourne, who is the one woman who stands in the way of a life he’d only imagined.When someone tries to poison Lady Radbourne, suspicion falls on Win. There’s a clever killer in their midst, and if Win doesn’t solve the mystery fast, Lina may perish. He needs to win her trust, but how can he prove it’s she he wants, and not the fortune?March 10 2014
http://alyssaeverett.com/
 
Jo Ann Brown
A BRIDE FOR THE BARON
Harlequin Love Inspired Historical
Inspirational/Nothing more than kissing
Print/eBookVera Fenwick is everything a vicar’s sister should be—helpful, modest and sensible. She knows the perils of falling for a man above her station, but it does no harm to admire Edmund Herriott, Lord Meriweather—from afar. She’s perfectly content to help him restore the local rectory…and she’s much too reasonable to risk her heart.Working alongside Vera to rebuild the church and foil a smuggling ring is restoring the confidence Edmund lost in battle. Vera may be sure she’s not suited to be an aristocrat’s wife, but Edmund is utterly confident of one thing—that this unexpected love was built to last.Sanctuary Bay: Where three war heroes find the healing power of love.March 4 2014
http://joannbrownbooks.com/
 
Katherine Bone
DUKE BY DAY, ROGUE BY NIGHT
EsKape Press
Historical/Some Sexual Contact
Print/eBookCONSTANCE DANBURY is desperate to escape an arranged marriage to a man nearly twice her age. Her only hope is to board a merchantman bound for Spain to enlist her aunt’s help. Her plans go awry when she’s captured by pirates. Even more alarming, her traitorous body longs for the man who’s returning her to England! Pushed into a marriage of convenience, she’s caught between two men—one owns her heart, the other is bent on stealing it.PERCIVAL AVERY is a member of Nelson’s Tea, an elite group assigned to protect England’s shores at any cost. On a mission to avenge his sister’s death, Percy infiltrates the gang of cutthroats responsible. When his vessel attacks a merchantman, Percy must choose between vengeance and saving the life of his commander’s niece. His only choice is to mutiny, but mutiny obliterates his well-laid plans. Forced on a new course that leads straight back to Constance Danbury, Percy has to make a decision—chase revenge or allow himself to love again.March 4 2014
http://www.katherinebone.com/
 
Amylynn Bright
THE DUKE OF MOREWETHER’S SECRET
Historical/Some Sexual ContactThea Ashbrook comes to London on a mission to do right by her half-brothers — not to find a husband. Homesick for Greece, she causes an incident at a Salon lecture on Greek architecture where she is introduced to the annoyingly handsome Duke of Morewether. The gossips have told her of every deviant escapade for which he’s so famous, and she is not impressed. When she discovers that his love of family mirrors her own, she gives herself permission to open her heart to him.Christian, Duke of Morewether, is infamous for his scandalous ways. He thinks his life lacks nothing, until he meets Miss Althea Ashbrook and, for the first time in his life, he finds himself tongue tied. When his past comes back to haunt him, it will take all his powers of persuasion to convince Thea he is worthy of her love.The duke has a secret – one that Thea thinks she could never forgive and sends her racing for home. To find redemption and win her back, Christian must realize mistakes can’t be ignored forever.March 1 2014
http://www.amylynnbright.com/
 
Aileen Fish

CHARMING THE VICAR’S DAUGHTER (The Bridgethorpe Brides #3)
Traditional/ Nothing More than Kisses
eNovella

What’s a gentleman to do when the local Widows’ League insists on a marriage over a simple misunderstanding? How does he honor his family name without damaging that of a vicar’s daughter?  For Neil Harrow, the journey to obtain a matched pair of horses for his new curricle has taken a wrong turn. While his uncle is not insisting Neil marry Patience Cookson, in his heart he knows it’s the thing to do.

Patience wants nothing to do with the popinjay who came to her aid, no matter how the situation appeared. The meddling old widows are a formidable opponent, but Patience will do everything in her power to avoid such an ill-suited match. As charming Mr. Harrow might be, Patience is determined to only marry a man she can love with all her heart.

March 25 2014
http://aileenfish.com
 
Callie Hutton
THE DUKE’S QUANDARY
Entangled – Scandalous
Historical/Some Sexual Contact
Print/eBookLondon 1814…Drake, Duke of Manchester is searching the Marriage Mart for a perfect bride. He wants a woman who is poised, sophisticated, and worthy of the title Duchess. But most of all, he wants a woman who does not want the useless emotion of love.Socially awkward Miss Penelope Clayton isn’t meant for marriage. A serious botanist, she has no desire to wed, so being forced by her guardian to participate in the Season to find a husband is torture. She’ll never fit in with the ton, especially if they discover she’s been pretending to be a man within the scientific community.As Drake’s family makes over Penelope, turning her from naive bluestocking to enchanting debutante, he is put upon to introduce her to society and eligible bachelors. Despite dance lessons and new gowns, Penelope is the opposite of poised and sophisticated as she stumbles from one mishap to the next. Why then, does he find it so hard to resist her?March 10 2014
http://calliehutton.com/
 
Vicky Dreiling
WHAT A RECKLESS ROGUE NEEDS
Grand Central: Forever Romance
Historical/Graphic Sexual Contact
Print/eBookWILL THE ROGUE’S PERFECT PLAN . . .Colin Brockhurst, Earl of Ravenshire, has no desire to wed, this season or any other. So when his father demands he give up his wild ways and take a wife, Colin refuses. But his father raises the stakes and threatens to sell the ancestral home if Colin doesn’t comply. Now Colin has no choice but to find a wife. Unfortunately, the only woman he wants is the one whose heart he broke years ago.LEAD TO THE PERFECT SEDUCTION?Regardless of the ton’s whispers, Lady Angeline Brenham won’t settle for anything less than true love. After rejecting more than her share of suitable suitors, spinsterhood looms before her-until the devilishly handsome Colin reappears in her life with a proposition. Angeline vows to keep her feet on the ground and her heart in check. That is, until one searing kiss melts her resolve and reignites a burning desire for more . . .March 25 2014
 
Regina Jeffers
CAPTAIN FREDERICK WENTWORTH’S PERSUASION
White Soup Press
Historical/Inferred Sexual ContactHe has loved her from the moment their eyes met some eight years prior, but Frederick Wentworth is determined to prove to Anne Elliot that she has made a mistake by refusing him. Persuaded by her family and friends of his lack of a future, Anne had sent him away, but now he is back, and it is Anne whose circumstances have brought her low. Frederick means to name another to replace her, but whenever he looks upon Anne’s perfect countenance, his resolve wavers, and he finds himself lost once again to his desire for her. Return to the Regency and Austen’s most compelling love story. Jeffers turns the tale upon its head while maintaining Jane Austen’s tale of love and devotion.February 26 2014
http://www.rjeffers.com/
 
Julie Johnstone
DANCING WITH A DEVIL
Historical/Some Sexual ContactA Lord Chained To His Past…Lord Trent Rutherford’s past has left him guarded, jaded and perfectly content to spend the rest of his life moving from one meaningless affair to the next. Until he meets Lady Audrey Cringlewood, an innocent beauty who makes him question everything he believes. His devilish demeanor guards more than a wounded heart. Behind his swagger lie secrets he’d rather forget than face, but the price of forgetting may be his second chance at life.A Lady Determined To Shape Her Future…Audrey Cringlewood longs to marry for love, not convenience. After several months of flirtatious banter, secret smiles and three very unforgettable kisses, Trent Rutherford, the rake known as Sin, proves himself the man of her dreams. Audrey suspects she understands the pain he hides behind his devil may care attitude, but when the truth comes to light, is her love enough to heal all wounds or will the secrets Trent guarded so carefully tear them apart forever?February 27 2014
http://juliejohnstoneauthor.com/
 
Sandy Raven
LOVING SARAH
Sandy Raven LLC
Historical/Graphic Sexual Contact
Print/eBookLady Sarah Halden stows away on the wrong boat when she thinks to enter a sailing race with her brother. She lands in the company of Lucky’s business partner, Ian Ross-Mackeever, heir to the Earl Mackeever. Sarah finds the gruff captain handsome and desires him in ways she’d never wanted a man before. With the help of a salacious little book filled with erotic images, Sarah decides to seduce her captain. At the halfway point of the race, instead of simply letting her return home with him, Lucky forces Sarah and Ian to marry.Ian Ross-Mackeever doesn’t believe in family. His own father sends him away when he is a boy to live in a different country with his grandfather who despises him and aunts who don’t know what to do with him. He is immediately sent away to school where he becomes friends with Lucky Gualtiero, a young man whose family is everything Ian’s is not.After a rocky start upon discovering his stowaway, Ian warms to Sarah’s presence in his life during the voyage home from New York. Her sense of adventure and unwavering love for family forces Ian to embrace her affections and the possibilities of a future with her at his side. Sarah shows Ian that running from destiny is more difficult than accepting fate, and every day spent not cherishing and loving those who love you is a day wasted.February 24 2014
http://www.sandyraven.com/
 
Tammy Jo Burns
TO LOVE AND PROTECT (Reluctant Lords Book Three)
Traditional/Some Sexual ContactLady Clarissa Blackerby enjoyed the peaceful life she and her father lived among the ton. That is until he remarried. Clarissa does not trust her new step-mother nor her step-mother’s brother, but being an only child she has no one to look to for help. When her father disappears and she is attacked, she turns in desperation to her aunt.When Lord Justin Southerby receives a plea from his godmother he dreads what he will walk into. Expecting to have to save her from another of her madcap capers, he instead finds her niece in desperate need of protection.As they join forces to find her father, Clarissa and Justin find themselves being pulled into a deeper intrigue. As they find themselves in more danger, they realize they can only trust each other. Will they find answers before it is too late? Will the trust they develop lead them to a love that will last a lifetime? Or will the past drive a wedge between them that not even love can span?March 5 2014
http://www.tammyjoburns.com/
 
Suzi Love
SCENTING SCANDAL
Historical/Some Sexual ContactThe second in my scandal series with heroines whose scientific knowledge and intellect are an affront to early Victorian’s increasingly staid society.The second Jamison sister uses her extraordinary olfactory senses to sniff out her perfect match, a husband who fits her scientific criteria. She joins forces with the earl to stop a mad-woman eliminating other investors in Britain’s railways. Richard evades marriage, but by accepting each other’s strengths and weakness, Laura and Richard discover a passion neither counted on.February 24 2014
http://suzilove.com/
 
Heather Boyd
AN ACCIDENTAL AFFAIR
Historical/Graphic Sexual ContactLondon’s ballrooms and bedrooms thrive on scandal and decadent pleasure and the summer of 1814 will be no exception for the Distinguished Rogues in Heather Boyd’s latest Regency romance.An Accidental AffairWidowed beauty, Arabella Lawson, Lady Farnsworth, knows the value of independence after being trapped in a marriage that left her unfulfilled. Although she longs for a lover at last, she’s expected to chaperone her flirtatious niece during her first season. However, given the way the girl keeps disappearing every chance she gets, there is little hope of a good or speedy result. While searching for her charge yet again, she blunders into one of Lord Rothwell’s scandalous assignations. This time it’s Arabella’s turn to be on the receiving end of his hungry kisses, and she’s far from prepared to make the most of the opportunity.Gossip may paint Merrick Bishop, the Earl of Rothwell, as a notorious scoundrel when it comes to women, but this season his intentions are honorable.March 12 2014
http://heather-boyd.com/
 
Shelley Munro
MISTRESS OF MERRIVALE
Samhain Publishing
Historical/Graphic Sexual ContactA marriage of convenience…full of inconvenient secrets.Jocelyn Townsend’s life as a courtesan bears no resemblance to the life she envisioned in girlish dreams. But it allows her and her eccentric mother to live in relative security—until her protector marries and no longer requires her services.Leo Sherbourne’s requirements for a wife are few. She must mother his young daughter, run his household, and warm his bed. All in a calm, dignified manner with a full measure of common sense. After his late wife’s histrionics and infidelity, he craves a simpler, quieter life.As they embark on their arrangement, Leo and Jocelyn discover an attraction that heats their bedroom and a mutual admiration that warms their days. But it isn’t long before gossip regarding the fate of Leo’s first wife, and his frequent, unexplained absences, make Jocelyn wonder if the secrets of Merrivale Manor are rooted in murder.March 25 2014
http://www.shelleymunro.com/
 
Darlene Marshall
THE PIRATE’S SECRET BABY
Amber Quill Press
Historical/Graphic Sexual ContactThe captain of the Prodigal Son has a deserved reputation as the deadliest (and best dressed) pirate in the Caribbean, but Robert St. Armand’s totally at sea when it comes to “Marauding Mattie”, the daughter he never knew he had. How in the world can he deal with the littlest pirate, one who prefers knife-throwing to arithmetic lessons, and who’d rather be keelhauled than eat her beets? He needs help!Lydia Burke is living a safe life, separated from England by an entire ocean. It’s exactly what she needs and she’s not going to risk her boring, but secure, position as a governess to consort with pirates, especially one who’s too pretty for his own good or her peace of mind.No self-respecting governess would be willing to come aboard the notorious Prodigal Son, but Robert didn’t fight his way to the top by letting small obstacles like scruples stop him. If he can’t hire Lydia Burke, he’ll steal her and take her to England with them, certain he can charm her into his bed along the wMarch 11 2014
http://www.darlenemarshall.com/
 
Rose Lerner
SWEET DISORDER
Samhain
Historical/Graphic Sexual ContactEver since a bullet sent former infantry officer Nick Dymond home to his emotionally distant, politically obsessed family, he’s lived alone with his depression. But with his younger brother desperate to win the local election, Nick has a new set of marching orders: dust off the legendary family charm and maneuver the beautiful Phoebe Sparks into a politically advantageous marriage.One marriage was enough for Phoebe. Under her town’s by-laws, though, she owns a vote that only a husband can cast. Much as she would love to simply ignore the unappetizing matrimonial candidate pushed at her by the handsome earl’s son, she can’t. Her teenage sister is pregnant, and Phoebe’s last-ditch defense against her sister’s ruin is her vote—and her hand.Nick and Phoebe soon realize the only match their hearts will accept is the one society will not allow. But as election intrigue turns dark, they’ll have to cast the cruelest vote of all: loyalty…or love.March 18 2014
http://www.roselerner.com/
 
Aubrey Beck
JUST ONE NIGHT
Nightshift Publishing
Erotica/Graphic Sexual Contact
AudiobookBlurb Good things come to those who wait, and James Armstrong, the wicked Earl of Haswell has been waiting a very long time to spend just one night with Emma, Lady Alnwick; a night that neither of them will ever forget.March 18 2013
 
Aubrey Beck
LADY MISTAKEN 
Night Shift Publishing
Erotica/Graphic Sexual ContactWhen Grace Garwood entered Berridge Downs in search of her wayward brother, she never imagined she’d be mistaken as a lightskirt by the notorious Lord Simon Berridge. And she certainly never imagined that she’d allow the man such wicked, shocking, and yet surprisingly delightful liberties.March 25 2014
 

Jane Lark ~ Featured Beau Monde Author

Jane LarkWhen Jane completed her first novel it was because she was determined not to reach forty still saying, I want to write.
You might think Jane was inspired to write by Jane Austen, especially as she lives near Bath in the United Kingdom, but you would be wrong. Jane’s favourite author is Anya Seton, and the book which drew her into the bliss of falling into historical imagination was ‘Katherine’ a story crafted from reality.
 
Jane has drawn on this inspiration to discover other real-life love stories, reading memoirs and letters to capture elements of the past, and she uses these to create more realistic plots.
 

Illicit Love

Now she is writing Regency Romance for Sapphire Star Publishing, and her debut novel, Illicit Love, was released May, 2nd.

More New Books From Beau Monde Authors

cropped-vic-lady-writing-at-desk1212

New Releases from Authors of The Beau Monde Chapter (Regency Historical) of Romance Writers of America

 

Illicit Love by Jane Lark

Illicit Love

Sapphire Star Publishing; ISBN 978-1-938404-55-9
Regency Hi
Can Love redeem a life of sin?storical Romance
Ellen glanced over the top of her fan at the gorgeous man across the table. Was it very wrong for her sinful body to want Edward Marlow? Choice was a holy grail; a cup fallen woman longed to drink from. She chose Edward.
Twitter @janelark
May 2013

Miss Goldsleigh’s Secret by Amylynn Bright

Miss Goldsleigh's SecretRegency Historical
When Henry Cavendish, Marquess of Dalton, leapt to catch the fainting woman before she hit the cobblestone, he never thought that one chivalrous act would set his well ordered life on end.  His ingrained need to protect her has every bit as much to do with her enchanting beauty as it does his desire to wipe the hunted look from her startling blue eyes. He thinks he has everything in hand, but the lady has secrets that puts everything he loves at risk.
Olivia Goldsleigh just wants to live without terror, but a gunshot in the night proves things can always get worse. The beautiful and god-like Lord Dalton swears to protect her, to make the danger go away. She wants the man, the life, the family, the bliss he promises, but her secrets are certain to destroy them all.
twitter / @amylynnbright
facebook: AmylynnBright
May 2013

 

Bewitched By His Kiss by Barbara Monajem

Bewitched By His KissHarlequin Historical Undone, 978-1-460-31308-4
Regency Historical Novella (with a touch of the paranormal)
Lucasta Barnes knows the folly believing in magic can lead to, and won’t accept that her illicit tryst with a notorious rake was the result of anything more than pure lust–or that it has bonded them together forever. Yet she can’t deny that she yearns for just one more night in his arms… David, Earl of Elderwood, is used to women being enchanted by him, but ever since a passionate encounter with Lucasta three years ago, he desires only her. How can he convince his thoroughly practical paramour that love is the greatest magic of all?
@BarbaraMonajem
May 2013

The Cardos Ruby by Shannon Donnelly

The Cardos RubyCielito Lindo Press 978-0-9850265-3-0
Traditional
A scoundrel haunted by scandal…
After being wounded in the Peninsular War, Captain Desford Cardros returns home with plans for revenge against the man who swore Cardros stole the legendary family gem, the Cardros Ruby. That man is his brother. But an injured rider-and his beautiful sister-pull Cardros into their more pressing problems; someone seems set on murdering young Lord Seaford. Caught up with the lovely Helena’s schemes to catch a murderer, Cardros can’t resist the attraction to her. But Helena is a woman already half-promised to his brother-and a lady who has little use for rogues such as him.
A lady expected to marry well…
As the granddaughter of an earl, Helena Seaford knows her duty to marry well-and she has Lord Althorn courting her. But her brother’s death would leave her a rich woman, so how can she trust any man’s interest when her brother is threatened by mysterious accidents. Now she has one man courting her and another flirting with her, but can she trust either with her heart-or her brother’s life? She has no answers, other than to follow her heart, wherever it may lead.
A fabulous ruby, secrets to hide, and a star-crossed love…
During a killing Yorkshire winter frost, a country house part becomes host to hidden truths that must come out, to a romance that may be doomed, and to a life that might be forfeit.
May 1, 2013

Conduct Unbecoming of a Gentleman by Wareeze Woodson

Conduct Unbecoming of a GentlemanSoul Mate Publishing
Regency Historical
A young widow struggles against the laws of the era to remain in her young son’s life. In light of the prejudices held by her son’s new guardian against beautiful blonds, will he help her against a jewel thief or let her perish at the hands of her husband’s killer.
Available in print later through Soul Mate Publishing, Amazon, B&N
May 2013

Highlander’s Hope by Collette Cameron

Highlander's HopeSoul Mate Publishing, ISBN 9781619351974
Regency Historical
Not a day has gone by that Ewan McTavish, the Viscount Sethwick, hasn’t dreamed of the beauty he danced with two years ago. He’s determined to win her heart and make her his own. Heiress, Yvette Stapleton, is certain of one thing; marriage is risky and, therefore, to be avoided. At first, she doesn’t recognize the dangerously handsome man who rescues her from assailants on London’s docks, but Lord Sethwick’s passionate kisses soon have her reconsidering her cynical views on matrimony. On a mission to stop a War Office traitor, Ewan draws Yvette into deadly international intrigue. To protect her, he exploits Scottish law, declaring her his lawful wife-without benefit of a ceremony. Yvette is furious upon discovering the irregular marriage is legally binding, though she never said, “I do.” Will Ewan’s manipulation cost him her newfound love?
Available in print later
@Collette_Author
May 2013

The English Lily by Kae Elle Wheeler

The English LilyWild Rose Press, ISBN: 978-1-61217-731-1
1790s Historical w/magical element (30k)
Lady Kendra Frazier is devastated. The love of her life just married another, and now all she desires is to be as far away as possible. Viscount Lawrie, Joseph Pinetti Gray, is facing financial ruin and needs a wealthy heiress.  Luckily for him, Kendra’s impetuous nature has handed him the fortuity he requires to save his family’s downfall. But Joseph’s carefully cultivated plans come to a grinding halt when he finds himself falling in love for what should have only been a marriage of convenience. How does an old cursed doll help?
@kathylwheeler  (@kathylwheeler)
May 2013

New Books From Beau Monde Authors

cropped-vic-lady-writing-at-desk1212

New Releases from Authors of The Beau Monde Chapter (Regency Historical) of Romance Writers of America

 

Honour’s Choice (The Honour Series Book Two) by Joan Vincent

Honour's ChoiceDe Rigueur Press   978-0-9852913-2-7
Regency
1809 England  Tortured and left to die by a malicious French spy Hadleigh Tarrant is nursed back to health by Lady Sarah.  Their hearts choose each other but secrets intervene.  Then the malicious French spy reappears intent upon revenge that threatens Sarah and Hadleigh’s very lives.  Hadleigh must unmask the spy before he and Sarah can decide between dishonor and HONOUR’S CHOICE.
**** RT Book Reviews –There’s more suspense than romance in the second entry to Vincent’s Honour series, but both keep the reader on the edge as finely-wrought characters tell an exciting tale. Unresolved circumstances leave the reader eager for book three.  Reviewed by Donna M Brown
A very limited number of print books will be available.  Preorder at http://joanvincent.net/booksChoice.php
Ebook: Amazon and B&N
May 2013

A Dead Bore by Sheri Cobb South

A Dead BoreCreateSpace, ISBN: 978-1483958613
Regency Mystery
Escaping scandal following her husband’s death, Lady Fieldhurst accepts an invitation to a house party. Tragedy follows her when the vicar, author of a dull local history, dies in a fire. She suspects murder, and sends to Bow Street for John Pickett. Posing as her footman, he investigates from belowstairs while she gathers information above. But Pickett finds her assistance both a help and an all-too-pleasant hindrance. “What a delightful tale!…John Pickett had me when he showed up as a footman. He is a sweet man, a little young, but wholly delectable.” –All About Romance
Trade paperback re-issue of the 2008 Five Star hardcover edition
May 2013

What a Wicked Earl Wants by Vicky Dreiling

What a Wicked Earl WantsForever, 13: 978-1455522873
Regency Historical
Will A Rake’s Wicked Ways Lead The Lady Astray
Andrew Carrington, Earl of Bellingham, welcomes the opportunity to help Laura Davenport, a dazzling young widow with a rebellious stepson. Her gratitude he hopes will take an amorous form. But from the moment he sets foot in her drawing rooom, he gets far more than he bargained for.
It was a moment of desperation. On the brink of losing her stepson, Laura turned to the notorious Lord Bellingham for help. Suddenly, she, a vicar’s daughter, is in the precarious position of resisting his tantalizing advances. How Bell earned his wicked reputation is clear; the surprise is how much more there is to him…
Facebook: Vicky Dreiling
May 2013

One More Kiss by Mary Blayney

One More KissBantam Books
978-0-553-59314-3
Regency Historical
Step into the world of a Regency house party where twin daughters of a wealthy merchant are honored guests. Complications abound as attachments are formed, old scandals reawakened and futures compromised as two innocents are introduced to love.
MaryBlayney.com
April 30, 2013

The Secret Life of Lady Julia by Lecia Cornwall

The Secret Life of Lady JuliaHarperCollins/Avon 978-0-06-220245-1
Regency Historical
Lady Julia Leighton succumbs to the charms of a stranger at a ball
celebrating her betrothal to another man. The steamy encounter changes
her life, and when she meets her seducer again Julia is no longer an
earl’s daughter, or a duke’s bride-to-be, but an outcast, and the paid
companion of a lady who used to be her equal.
Thomas Merritt is a thief with a secret past. He came to steal her
jewels, but he left with Julia’s heart instead.
When they meet again in a Vienna rife with scandal, dangerous secrets
and political intrigue, a perilous secret is about to come to light,
and the only one who can save the day is Thomas, thief of jewels and
hearts.
May 28, 2013

Lady Vivian Defies a Duke by Samantha Grace

Lady Vivian Defies a DukeSourcebooks, ISBN? 978-1402258404
Regency Historical
“Grace supplies another winning marriage of romance and wit in this delightful Regency.” (Starred Review) Publisher’s Weekly
May 2013

The Angel and St. Clair by Diana Hussey (awa Constance Hussey)

The Angel and St. ClairJupiter Gardens, LLC  ISBN: 978-0-9839726-9-3
Regency Historical
A daring English lord-a lovely young woman-a dangerous attraction
Haunted by an unknown danger, injured and penniless, Juliette Deveneau agrees to accompany the compelling English lord to France. She needs his protection but she has only his word that he will explore the mystery of her past-and that he has no knowledge of her prior to this fateful night.
Hunted by the traitorous Frenchman who abducted her, the unraveling secrets in Juliette’s past put more than her life at risk; they could tear her from Lord Lynton’s arms forever. Fate has thrown them together, but can this staged marriage turn into something real once she regains her memory?
Facebook: constancehussey
May 2013