Cover Reveal: Rhapsody by Mitchell James Kaplan

Rhapsody by Mitchell James Kaplan

Publication Date: March 2, 2021

Gallery Books

Hardcover, eBook, Audiobook; 352 pages

Genre: Biographical/Literary/Historical

One evening in 1924, Katharine “Kay” Swift—the restless but loyal society wife of wealthy banker James Warburg and a serious pianist who longs for recognition—attends a concert. The piece: Rhapsody in Blue. The composer: a brilliant, elusive young musical genius named George Gershwin.

Kay is transfixed, helpless to resist the magnetic pull of George’s talent, charm, and swagger. Their ten-year love affair, complicated by her conflicted loyalty to her husband and the twists and turns of her own musical career, ends only with George’s death from a brain tumor at the age of thirty-eight.

Set in Jazz Age New York City, this stunning work of fiction, for fans of The Paris Wife and Loving Frank, explores the timeless bond between two brilliant, strong-willed artists. George Gershwin left behind not just a body of work unmatched in popular musical history, but a woman who loved him with all her heart, knowing all the while that he belonged not to her, but to the world.

Available for Pre-Order
Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Indiebound

Praise

"Mitchell James Kaplan pens a lilting, jazzy ballad as catchy as a Gershwin tune, bringing to vibrant life the complicated relationship between classically trained composer Kay Swift and free-wheeling star George Gershwin. Their musical bond is as powerful as their passion, and jazz-soaked gin-drenched Broadway is their playground through the tumultuous years of the Great War and Prohibition. Rhapsody will have you humming, toe-tapping, and singing along with every turn of the page." –Kate Quinn, New York Times bestselling author of THE ALICE NETWORK and THE HUNTRESS

"We all know Gershwin, but how many know he was 'the man behind the woman," the conflicted, extraordinary Katherine 'Kay' Swift? Mitchell James Kaplan illuminates her in Rhapsody, bringing his impressive knowledge of history, composition, and the heart’s whims to bear on this shining rendition of Swift and Gershwin’s star-crossed love." –Therese Anne Fowler, New York Times bestselling author of Z and A GOOD NEIGHBORHOOD

“In Rhapsody, Mitchell James Kaplan brings to lyrical life the romance between Kay Swift and George Gershwin. A gifted musician in her own right, Kay was no mere accompanist to Gershwin’s genius; she was a true partner, unfortunately little remembered today. Kaplan’s vivid prose and empathetic characterization shines a spotlight on this remarkable woman who contributed so much to American music.” –Melanie Benjamin, New York Times bestselling author of The Swans of Fifth Avenue and Mistress of the Ritz

“Mitchell James Kaplan’s Rhapsody shines a blazing light on the celebrated George Gershwin, uncovering the man behind the legend through the story of the woman he loved, Kay Swift, a brilliant musician caught in the swiftly moving mores of New York’s Jazz Age. Rich with history and packed with intricate detail, Rhapsody soars.” –Randy Susan Meyers, bestselling author of THE WIDOW OF WALL STREET and WAISTED

“Mitchell James Kaplan has captured a whole world in his luminous journey through the jazz age in fast-paced New York City with this love story of composer Kay Swift and the brilliant but elusive George Gershwin. Kay first heard him playing his Rhapsody in Blue, but she was married to a wealthy man and Gershwin could be faithful only to his own genius. Through Broadway theaters and concerts, he was rising so fast that neither the Great Depression, nor the darkening rise of Hitler across the sea, nor the impossible difficulties of writing the first black folk-opera Porgy and Bess could stop him. Through their love affair, Gershwin and Kay gave fire to each other’s music until nothing could derail his meteoric success but time." –Stephanie Cowell, American Book Award-winning author of CLAUDE AND CAMILLE and THE PHYSICIAN OF LONDON

About the Author

Mitchell James Kaplan graduated with honors from Yale University, where he won the Paine Memorial Prize for Best Long-Form Senior Essay submitted to the English Department. His first mentor was the author William Styron.

After college, Kaplan lived in Paris, France, where he worked as a translator, then in Southern California, where he worked as a screenwriter and in film production.

He lives in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia with his family and two cats.

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

Cover Reveal Schedule

Monday, October 26
Novels Alive

Tuesday, October 27
Gwendalyn's Books

Wednesday, October 28
The Lit Bitch

Thursday, October 29
Locks, Hooks and Books

Friday, October 30
Donna's Book Blog

Sunday, November 1
Passages to the Past

Monday, November 2
Chicks, Rogues and Scandals

Tuesday, November 3
Pursuing Stacie

Wednesday, November 4
History from a Woman’s Perspective

Thursday, November 5
Crystal's Library

Friday, November 6
Jessica Belmont

Sunday, November 8
Older & Smarter

Monday, November 9
Books, Cooks, Looks

Tuesday, November 10
Reading is My Remedy

Wednesday, November 11
Coffee and Ink

Thursday, November 12
CelticLady's Reviews

Friday, November 13
A Darn Good Read
Tangents and Tissues

Blog Tour and Giveaway: Fair Weather Enemies by Sawyer North

Fair Weather Enemies by Sawyer North

Publication Date: February 10, 2020

Entangled Publishing/Scandalous

Paperback & eBook; 270 Pages

Genre: Historical Romance

The Hancocks and Ashfords have had a long-standing feud between their families long before Miss Jane Hancock couldn't stand the sight of gentleman farmer Adam Ashford. But after both families fall on hard times and an unscrupulous creditor forces Jane and Adam to sign a devil's bargain, they'll finally understand the true meaning of keeping your enemies close at hand. The terms of this bargain? Locate a lost treasure shrouded in deception and mystery. The catch? Only one can claim it to win...the loser is left to ruin. As Jane and Adam embark on a trek throughout England they plan to hate their adversary, no matter how attractive, generous, and kind they are. Sometimes, plans change...

Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Kobo

About the Author

After self-publishing science fiction novels over a period of years, I made the truly odd move into historical romance. Although romance is a strong thread in nearly all my works, I came to straight-up, nothing-but-romance only after turning fifty. Since then, I am plagued by the question, “What took me so long?” My awakening began rather innocuously when I casually watched the 2015 version of Poldark. Before I knew, I was falling headlong into the abyss of historical romance and read fifteen such novels over a three-month span. However, no number could sufficiently scratch my itch for more, so I did what any writer would do and began constructing stories of my own. In April of 2019, I received my first contract with Entangled Publishing.

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

Blog Tour Schedule

Monday, February 10 

Review at Historical Romance Lover 

Tuesday, February 11 

Review at Gwendalyn's Books 

Wednesday, February 12 

Excerpt at Historical Fiction with Spirit 

Saturday, February 15 

Review at Historical Graffiti 

Sunday, February 16 

Review at Locks, Hooks and Books 

Tuesday, February 18 

Interview at Passages to the Past 

Wednesday, February 19 

Excerpt at Chicks, Rogues and Scandals 

Saturday, February 22 

Excerpt at The Lit Bitch 

Monday, February 24 

Review at Passages to the Past 

Tuesday, February 25 

Excerpt at What Is That Book About

Giveaway

During the Blog Tour, we are giving away a $10 Amazon Gift Card! To enter, please use the Gleam form below. Giveaway Rules – Giveaway ends at 11:59 pm EST on February 25th. You must be 18 or older to enter. – Paperback giveaway is open to US only. – Only one entry per household. – All giveaway entrants agree to be honest and not cheat the systems; any suspicion of fraud will be decided upon by blog/site owner and the sponsor, and entrants may be disqualified at our discretion. – The winner has 48 hours to claim prize or a new winner is chosen. Fair Weather Enemies



My Review

Sawyer North's Fair Weather Enemies is a fabulous historical romance debut. I love historical fiction, but I have to say Regency Era can be a hit or miss for me and not my favorite. This one is definitely a hit. Mr North has written a delightfully fun romance. Within the first couple of chapters, I was hooked and did not want to put the book down. I enjoyed Adam and Jane's story. I loved the humor in some of the scenes.

I am giving Fair Weather Enemies a very well deserved five plus stars. I can not wait to read more books by this author.

I received this book from the publisher. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.

Blog Tour and Giveaway: Across the Great Divide (The Clouds of War #1) by Michael L Ross

Across the Great Divide by Michael L. Ross

Publication Date: May 14, 2019

Elm Hill

eBook, Paperback, Hardcover

Series: The Clouds of War, Book One

Genre: Historical/Christian/Military

Lexington, Kentucky, 1859. After saving John Hunt Morgan from a puma attack, fifteen-year-old farm boy Will Crump joins Hunt’s militia, the Lexington Rifles. Morgan mentors Will and enrolls him in the local university, where he hopes to study law. As tensions rise between the North and South, Will is torn between his loyalty to Morgan and his love for his family. Will’s father, sisters, and sweetheart follow the Union, while Morgan and Will commit to the South. As part of Morgan’s band, Will participates in ambushes and unconventional warfare until his first real battle at Shiloh. He fights bravely, but increasingly questions what the war is accomplishing, and whether his devotion to honor has led him astray. And where is God in all this killing? Will’s sister Albinia, friend of the Clay family, becomes increasingly aware of the plight of the slaves. When she finds Luther, a slave she knows, trying to escape, she must decide between her conscience, and her friends. She becomes involved in the Underground Railroad, helping slaves to freedom – but will it cost her love and her freedom? Will’s other sister, Julia, is approaching spinster status and despairs of ever meeting a man who can give her more than life on a farm until she meets Hiram Johannsen, a son of immigrants who owns a steamship company. They marry and she makes a new life in the North. When Hiram answers the call to fight for the North, Julia runs the steamboat company in her husband’s absence and uses her boats to help Albinia ferry escaped slaves to freedom. Her business relations put her in the perfect position to spy for the North. When the Confederates capture her, will she survive? Luther is one of the first slaves Albinia helps flee the South after his master cruelly abuses his mother and sister. He escapes with his family, and when war breaks out, he fights for the North as an auxiliary of the Third Ohio Cavalry, alongside Julia’s husband, Hiram, and against Morgan and Will. Luther has to confront the demons of his past, an abusive master, and a slave catcher that kills his little sister. Will the desire for revenge destroy him? Throughout the war, Will is forced to examine and question everything he believes in—his faith in God, his love for his family, his loyalty to Morgan, and his worth as a human being. Will and his family must somehow mend the torn fabric of relationships to find peace, and reach Across the Great Divide.

Amazon | Barnes and Noble | IndieBound

"Ross’s gripping story follows a Kentucky family of modest means and the enslaved people they helped toward freedom. The depictions of slavery ring true, and the use of both historical and fictional characters fills out the probable feelings of people attaining liberty in the bloodiest of all our wars." -Daniel C. Snell, Ph.D., emeritus professor, University of Oklahoma, and scholar of the history of slavery

"Like a great roller coaster, Michael Ross’ debut novel goes up and down with personal crises and national conflict, but it also twists about unexpectedly from character to memorable character in a sprawling story of the Civil War. Will, an earnest young man whose faith and honor sometimes put him at odds with those he loves, is caught up in the struggles of a country grappling with its own destiny. The issues that compel and separate people in ‘neutral’ Kentucky as the war breaks out echo our own era. We, too, are caught in a great divide. If you love a good story pulled from history, and if you are person of faith, you will find it hard to put down “The Great Divide” until the last page." -Daniel A. Brown, PhD, Author of “Embracing Grace,” Pastor, International Speaker

About the Author

Michael Ross is a lover of history and great stories. He's a retired software engineer turned author, with three children and five grandchildren, living in Newton, Kansas with his wife of thirty-eight years. He was born in Lubbock, Texas, and still loves Texas. The main character of "Across the Great Divide", William Dorsey Crump, is one of the founders of Lubbock and Shallowater, Texas. Michael knew Will's granddaughter when he was a child. He has written a scholarly article on Will Crump for the Texas Historical Society, published in the Handbook of Texas Online, and has sold short stories in the past. This is his first novel and the first in the Across the Great Divide series. Michael attended Rice University as an undergraduate, and Portland State University for his graduate degree. He has degrees in computer science, software engineering, and German. In his spare time, Michael loves to go fishing, riding horses, and play with his grandchildren, who are currently all under six years old. He sees many parallels between the time of the Civil War and our divided nation of today. Sanctuary cities, immigration, arguments around the holiday table, threats of secession - all are nothing new. Sometimes, to understand the present, you have to look at the past- and reach Across the Great Divide.

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

Blog Tour Schedule

Monday, October 7 Review at Historical Fiction Reviews Tuesday, October 8 Excerpt at Maiden of the Pages Thursday, October 10 Feature at I'm All About Books Friday, October 11 Review at Red Headed Book Lady Saturday, October 12 Review at Reading is My Remedy Monday, October 14 Review at Al-Alhambra Wednesday, October 16 Review at Stories Can Make Us Fly Friday, October 18 Excerpt at The Book Junkie Reads Sunday, October 20 Review at Locks, Hooks, and Books Wednesday, October 23 Feature at The Caffeinated Bibliophile Friday, October 25 Guest Post at Passages to the Past Monday, October 28 Review at Passages to the Past Tuesday, October 29 Feature at CelticLady's Reviews Thursday, October 31 Review at Older & Smarter? Friday, November 1 Interview at Passages to the Past Monday, November 4 Excerpt at Myths, Legends, Books & Coffee Pots Wednesday, November 6 Review at Just Another Reader Thursday, November 7 Feature at Coffee and Ink

Giveaway

During the Blog Tour, we are giving away a paperback copy of Across the Great Divide! To enter, please use the Gleam form below. Giveaway Rules – Giveaway ends at 11:59 pm EST on November 7th. You must be 18 or older to enter. – Paperback giveaway is open internationally. – Only one entry per household. – All giveaway entrants agree to be honest and not cheat the systems; any suspicion of fraud will be decided upon by blog/site owner and the sponsor, and entrants may be disqualified at our discretion. – The winner has 48 hours to claim prize or a new winner is chosen.
  Across the Great Divide

My Review

Across the Great Divide is the exciting start to Michael Ross's series, The Clouds of War. I thought the author did a fantastic job to portray the divisions during the American Civil War. I liked the inspiring themes he used that made me deeply think about those times.

I am giving Across the Great Divide a well deserved five plus stars. I am eagerly waiting for the second installment from The Clouds of War series to release. I highly recommend this one.

I received this book from the publisher. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.

Blog Tour and Giveaway: Above the Walls by Steve Physioc

The Walls of Lucca by Steve Physioc

Publication Date: March 26, 2018

eBook & Paperback; 509 Pages

Genre: Historical Fiction

Winner of the 2019 Reader Views Historical Fiction Award Winner of the 2019 Tyler R. Tichelaar Award for Best Historical Fiction When Franco, a weary Italian soldier who’s seen some of the worst of World War I, stumbles onto the Martellino vineyard, he’s looking for work — not love. But he finds that and much more with Isabella, the feisty young woman who works there. Franco pours himself into the vineyard, trying to create a wine that will save it from financial ruin and rescue him from his dark memories of war. But it’s not easy when Mussolini's evil shadow continues to loom over all of Italy. It’s even harder when Susanna, the vineyard’s matriarch, invites that shadow to the vineyard with her involvement in Fascist politics — and one very sinister political operative. Influenced by the teachings of A Course In Miracles, The Walls of Lucca is historical fiction that shows readers the power of love and forgiveness in the face of evil. Compelling, colorful characters populate an authentic, inspiring story of friendship, faith, love and loss in a tumultuous time in European history.

Amazon | Barnes and Noble | IndieBound

Praise for The Walls of Lucca

“An absorbing, well-researched saga.” — Kirkus Reviews “The Walls of Lucca is a tender, suspenseful and touching story sure to please fans of romance, political stories, and historical novels.” — BlueInk Review "Author Steve Physioc has really managed to find the perfect balance of romance and real life." - Readers' Favorite

Above the Walls by Steve Physioc

Publication Date: February 1, 2019

eBook & Paperback; 484 Pages

Genre: Historical Fiction

For eight years, the Fascist politician Alfredo Obizzi has kept quiet about his affair with Susanna Martellino, the matriarch of the Martellino vineyard. Now in 1938 Italy, Obizzi uses his growing political power to seek revenge on his past enemies, and Susanna and the vineyard’s spiritual sage, Isabella, are at the top of his list. Will faith and forgiveness be enough to lead the vineyard and its inhabitants through the bloodshed and heartbreak of World War II and Obizzi’s vengeance? Meanwhile, the vineyard’s next generation, DeAngelo and Lily, have been best friends since they were born. But now — is it more? The star-crossed lovers must push through war, distance and outside forces to find out.

Praise for Above the Walls

“Once again, Physioc brings wartime Italy to vibrant life…Convincing historical fiction with a spiritual slant.” - Kirkus Reviews “It was a delight to step back into the Martellino vineyard and to author Steve Physioc’s unique blend of romantic drama and harrowingly austere pre-war conditions.” - Readers Favorite “To write I am astounded by Above the Walls is an understatement; this captivating book captured me and held me prisoner until the very end.” - Red Headed Book Lover blog

Amazon | IndieBound

About the Author

As an Emmy-winning radio and TV broadcaster for football, baseball and basketball, Steve Physioc has been telling stories for 40 years. After a trip to Italy with his wife, Stace, he was inspired to tell a different kind of story — his novels, The Walls of Lucca and Above the Walls. He and Stace live in Kansas City and love to visit and spend time with their children, Ryan and Kevin, and three grandchildren.

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | Instagram | Goodreads | BookBub

Blog Tour Schedule

Sunday, October 6 Review at Locks, Hooks and Books (The Walls of Lucca) Tuesday, October 8 Excerpt at The Book Junkie Reads Thursday, October 10 Review at The Book Reader Friday, October 11 Feature at Maiden of the Pages Sunday, October 13 Review at Locks, Hooks and Books (Above the Walls) Tuesday, October 15 Interview at Passages to the Past Thursday, October 17 Review at Coffee and Ink Saturday, October 19 Review at Just Another Reader (The Walls of Lucca) Monday, October 21 Feature at CelticLady's Reviews Wednesday, October 23 Excerpt at Myths, Legends, Books & Coffee Pots Friday, October 25 Review at Just Another Reader (Above the Walls) Review at WTF Are You Reading?

Giveaway

During the Blog Tour, we are giving away a paperback copy of The Walls of Lucca and Above the Walls! To enter, please use the Gleam form below. Giveaway Rules – Giveaway ends at 11:59 pm EST on October 25th. You must be 18 or older to enter. – Paperback giveaway is open to the US only. – Only one entry per household. – All giveaway entrants agree to be honest and not cheat the systems; any suspicion of fraud will be decided upon by blog/site owner and the sponsor, and entrants may be disqualified at our discretion. – The winner has 48 hours to claim prize or a new winner is chosen. Steve Physioc

My Review for Above the Walls:

Above the Walls is the second installment from Steve Physioc’s Martellino series. I enjoyed the first book and this one does not disappoint. I thought this book was a great read. It was great to catch up with the characters and meeting new ones as they all head to yet another world war.

I am giving Above the Walls four and a half stars. I highly recommend it for readers who love to read historical fiction.

I received this book from the publisher. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.

Blog Tour and Giveaway: The Walls of Lucca by Steve Physioc

The Walls of Lucca by Steve Physioc

Publication Date: March 26, 2018

eBook & Paperback; 509 Pages

Genre: Historical Fiction

Winner of the 2019 Reader Views Historical Fiction Award Winner of the 2019 Tyler R. Tichelaar Award for Best Historical Fiction When Franco, a weary Italian soldier who’s seen some of the worst of World War I, stumbles onto the Martellino vineyard, he’s looking for work — not love. But he finds that and much more with Isabella, the feisty young woman who works there. Franco pours himself into the vineyard, trying to create a wine that will save it from financial ruin and rescue him from his dark memories of war. But it’s not easy when Mussolini's evil shadow continues to loom over all of Italy. It’s even harder when Susanna, the vineyard’s matriarch, invites that shadow to the vineyard with her involvement in Fascist politics — and one very sinister political operative. Influenced by the teachings of A Course In Miracles, The Walls of Lucca is historical fiction that shows readers the power of love and forgiveness in the face of evil. Compelling, colorful characters populate an authentic, inspiring story of friendship, faith, love and loss in a tumultuous time in European history.

Amazon | Barnes and Noble | IndieBound

Praise for The Walls of Lucca

“An absorbing, well-researched saga.” — Kirkus Reviews “The Walls of Lucca is a tender, suspenseful and touching story sure to please fans of romance, political stories, and historical novels.” — BlueInk Review "Author Steve Physioc has really managed to find the perfect balance of romance and real life." - Readers' Favorite

Above the Walls by Steve Physioc

Publication Date: February 1, 2019

eBook & Paperback; 484 Pages

Genre: Historical Fiction

For eight years, the Fascist politician Alfredo Obizzi has kept quiet about his affair with Susanna Martellino, the matriarch of the Martellino vineyard. Now in 1938 Italy, Obizzi uses his growing political power to seek revenge on his past enemies, and Susanna and the vineyard’s spiritual sage, Isabella, are at the top of his list. Will faith and forgiveness be enough to lead the vineyard and its inhabitants through the bloodshed and heartbreak of World War II and Obizzi’s vengeance? Meanwhile, the vineyard’s next generation, DeAngelo and Lily, have been best friends since they were born. But now — is it more? The star-crossed lovers must push through war, distance and outside forces to find out.

Praise for Above the Walls

“Once again, Physioc brings wartime Italy to vibrant life…Convincing historical fiction with a spiritual slant.” - Kirkus Reviews “It was a delight to step back into the Martellino vineyard and to author Steve Physioc’s unique blend of romantic drama and harrowingly austere pre-war conditions.” - Readers Favorite “To write I am astounded by Above the Walls is an understatement; this captivating book captured me and held me prisoner until the very end.” - Red Headed Book Lover blog

Amazon | IndieBound

About the Author

As an Emmy-winning radio and TV broadcaster for football, baseball and basketball, Steve Physioc has been telling stories for 40 years. After a trip to Italy with his wife, Stace, he was inspired to tell a different kind of story — his novels, The Walls of Lucca and Above the Walls. He and Stace live in Kansas City and love to visit and spend time with their children, Ryan and Kevin, and three grandchildren.

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | Instagram | Goodreads | BookBub

Blog Tour Schedule

Sunday, October 6 Review at Locks, Hooks and Books (The Walls of Lucca) Tuesday, October 8 Excerpt at The Book Junkie Reads Thursday, October 10 Review at The Book Reader Friday, October 11 Feature at Maiden of the Pages Sunday, October 13 Review at Locks, Hooks and Books (Above the Walls) Tuesday, October 15 Interview at Passages to the Past Thursday, October 17 Review at Coffee and Ink Saturday, October 19 Review at Just Another Reader (The Walls of Lucca) Monday, October 21 Feature at CelticLady's Reviews Wednesday, October 23 Excerpt at Myths, Legends, Books & Coffee Pots Friday, October 25 Review at Just Another Reader (Above the Walls) Review at WTF Are You Reading?

Giveaway

During the Blog Tour, we are giving away a paperback copy of The Walls of Lucca and Above the Walls! To enter, please use the Gleam form below. Giveaway Rules – Giveaway ends at 11:59 pm EST on October 25th. You must be 18 or older to enter. – Paperback giveaway is open to the US only. – Only one entry per household. – All giveaway entrants agree to be honest and not cheat the systems; any suspicion of fraud will be decided upon by blog/site owner and the sponsor, and entrants may be disqualified at our discretion. – The winner has 48 hours to claim prize or a new winner is chosen. Steve Physioc

My Review for The Walls of Lucca:

The Walls of Lucca begins the Martellino series by Steve Physioc. Mr Physioc’s talent shines through in this book and I thought it was pretty good. I loved getting to know Isabella. I admired her strength, bravery and determination. I found it interesting to learn a little bit what it would have been like to live in Italy post World War I.

The Walls of Lucca was getting four and a half stars from me. I look forward to the sequel to the Martellino series, Above the Walls, to see what happens next.

I received this book from the publisher. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.

Blog Tour and Giveaway: Farewell My Life by Cynthia Sally Haggard

Farewell My Life by Cynthia Haggard

Publication Date: April 7, 2019

eBook & Paperback; 586 pages

Genre: Historical Fiction

Angelina led a life which required her to fib. When Angelina, the black sheep of the Pagano family, meets the mysterious Mr. Russell, she has no idea that she has seen him before…in another country. And so begins Farewell My Life, a novel in three parts, which spins an operatic tale of dangerous love and loss. The Lost Mother, the first part of this novel, slices back and forth between time and space, opening in the charming village of Georgetown, Washington D.C. while reflecting a family’s troubled past in the lovely village of Marostica in the Italian Veneto. An Unsuitable Suitor, the second part of the novel, is a Cinderella-ish tale with not-so-charming princes who inhabit the edgy setting of 1920s Berlin. Farewell My Life, the last part of the novel, set again in Berlin, Germany, during the dark 1930s as the Nazis gain power, takes comfortable lives, assumptions and civilizations and crumbles them into ash.

Amazon | IndieBound

Praise for Farewell My Life

"A unique, deftly scripted, and extraordinary novel by an author with a distinctive narrative storytelling style that will hold the readers dedicated attention from beginning to end, "Farewell My Life: Buona Notte Vita Mia" is an impressive and unreservedly recommended addition to both community and academic library Contemporary Literary Fiction collections. One of those rare novels that will linger in the mind and memory long after the book itself has been finished."--Mid-West Book Review "The author knows her characters very, very well; this shows in the consistent and very individual way they act. This is not a plot-driven story; it's character-driven. In this book, the characters are the jam which holds everything together. The best example of this is Grace, the talented violinist, who, simply, jumps off the page. I loved her."--Wishing Shelf "This is not your typical mystery; it's for fans of thrilling action and historically­-inspired events...Contra to the status quo of the genre, the men are the romantics - though in a deranged manner - and the women showcased are the core strength of the novel."--BookLife Prize. "The author...adeptly summons the era in all its manners and details with her descriptive prose...Her omniscient, third-person narrator effectively flits through the heads of various characters, offering momentary glimpses of their inner lives."--Kirkus Reviews "I loved the elaborate descriptions of all the places in this book. This is the kind of book that shows instead of just telling. The characters are very well-developed and interesting to read about. Angelina is a fascinating character, as is Grace. Along the duration of the book, Grace learns a lot about herself. I was amazed by her quiet yet vibrant personality, and her brilliant talent."--Pavani Mathur (The Voracious Bibliophile)

About the Author

Cynthia graduated with an MFA in Creative Writing from Lesley University, Cambridge MA, in June 2015. Her first novel, Thwarted Queen, a frustrating tale (hence the title) of Lady Cecylee Neville (1415-1495) who was nearly crowned Queen of England, was shortlisted for many awards, including the 2012 Eric Hoffer New Horizon Award for debut authors. To date, sales have surpassed 38,000 copies. Her forthcoming novel, Farewell My Life, is a Cinderella-ish tale with not-so-charming princes who inhabit the edgy setting of 1920s Berlin. When she’s not annoying everyone by insisting her fictional characters are more real than they are, Cynthia likes to go for long walks, knit something glamorous, cook in her wonderful kitchen, and play the piano. You can visit her at www.spunstories.com. You can also find Cynthia on Facebook, Twitter, and Goodreads.

Blog Tour Schedule

Monday, September 9 Interview at Passages to the Past Tuesday, September 10 Feature at Books In Their Natural Habitat Thursday, September 12 Excerpt at A Darn Good Read Friday, September 13 Excerpt at Maiden of the Pages Monday, September 16 Review at girl-who-reads Tuesday, September 17 Feature at Beth's Book Nook Blog Wednesday, September 18 Review at Locks, Hooks and Books Thursday, September 19 Review at Gwendalyn's Books Saturday, September 21 Excerpt at Broken Teepee Monday, September 23 Feature at The Book Junkie Reads Tuesday, September 24 Review at Unabridged Chick Friday, September 27 Excerpt at Coffee and Ink Sunday, September 29 Review at Reading is My Remedy Monday, September 30 Interview at Unabridged Chick Saturday, October 5 Review at Passages to the Past Tuesday, October 8 Feature at I'm All About Books Wednesday, October 9 Excerpt at Chicks, Rogues and Scandals Excerpt at Myths, Legends, Books & Coffee Pots

Giveaway

During the Blog Tour, we are giving away two eBooks of FAREWELL MY LIFE! To enter, please use the Gleam form below. Giveaway Rules – Giveaway ends at 11:59 pm EST on October 9th. You must be 18 or older to enter. – Giveaway is open to the US only. – Only one entry per household. – All giveaway entrants agree to be honest and not cheat the systems; any suspicion of fraud will be decided upon by blog/site owner and the sponsor, and entrants may be disqualified at our discretion. – The winner has 48 hours to claim prize or a new winner is chosen. Farewell My Life

My Review

After reading Cynthia Sally Haggard’s Thwarted Queen Saga, I was looking forward to her newest release, Farewell My Life. I was not disappointed. She has a special talent of transporting her readers back in time, feel as though they are part of the story, and living in that moment in history.

Farewell My Live gets a very well deserved five plus stars from me. I highly recommend it and plan on reading it again in the near future. It is definitely a keeper.

I received this book from the publisher. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.

Blog Tour and Giveaway: Sign of the White Foal by Chris Thorndycroft

Sign of the White Foal by Chris Thorndycroft

Publication Date: July 1, 2019

eBook & Paperback; 327 Pages

Series: Arthur of the Cymry Trilogy (Book 1)

Genre: Historical Fiction

A generation after Hengest and Horsa carved out a kingdom in the east, a hero of the Britons rises in the west... 480 A.D. The sons of Cunedag have ruled Venedotia for fifty years but the chief of them – the Pendraig – is now dying. His sons Cadwallon and Owain must fight to retain their birthright from their envious cousins. As civil war consumes Venedotia, Arthur – a young warrior and bastard son of the Pendraig – is sent on a perilous quest that will determine the fate of the kingdom. The Morgens; nine priestesses of the Mother Goddess have found the cauldron of rebirth – a symbol of otherworldly power – and have allied themselves with the enemy. Arthur and six companions are dispatched to the mysterious island of Ynys Mon to steal the cauldron and break the power of the Morgens. Along the way they run into the formidable Guenhuifar whose family have been stewards of Ynys Mon for generations. They need her help. The trouble is, Guenhuifar despises Arthur’s family and all they stand for… Based on the earliest Arthurian legends, Sign of the White Foal is a rip-roaring adventure of Celtic myth and real history set in the ruins of post-Roman Britain.

Amazon | IndieBound

About the Author

Chris Thorndycroft is a British writer of historical fiction, horror and fantasy. His early short stories appeared in magazines and anthologies such as Dark Moon Digest and American Nightmare. His first novel under his own name was A Brother's Oath; the first book in the Hengest and Horsa Trilogy. He also writes under the pseudonym P. J. Thorndyke. For more information, please visit Chris Thorndycroft's website. You can also find him on Twitter and Goodreads.

Blog Tour Schedule

Monday, July 22
Review at Gwendalyn's Books 

Tuesday, July 23 

Review at Passages to the Past 

Wednesday, July 24 

Review & Interview at Jorie Loves a Story 

Thursday, July 25 

Review at My Reading Chronicles 

Friday, July 26 

Guest Post at Gwendalyn's Books 

Monday, July 29 

Review at Coffee and Ink 

Review at Faery Tales Are Real 

Tuesday, July 30 

Interview at Gwendalyn's Books 

Review at Locks, Hooks and Books 

Wednesday, July 31 

Review at Hoover Book Reviews 

Friday, August 2 

Review at Stephanie's Novel Fiction

Giveaway

During the Blog Tour, one winner will receive an eBook of Sign of the White Foal by Chris Thorndycroft! To enter, please use the Gleam form below. Giveaway Rules – Giveaway ends at 11:59 pm EST on August 2nd. You must be 18 or older to enter. – Giveaway is open internationally. – Only one entry per household. – All giveaway entrants agree to be honest and not cheat the systems; any suspicion of fraud will be decided upon by blog/site owner and the sponsor, and entrants may be disqualified at our discretion. – The winner has 48 hours to claim prize or a new winner is chosen. Sign of the White Foal



My Review: 

Sign of the White Foal is a novel involving the days from the legend of King Arthur in England. I thought it was a good read. It was interesting to see the author's vision for this time period. The action is throughout the book that made me want to keep reading.

I give Sign of the White Foal four stars. I would love to read more by this author. I recommend this one for readers who love early English history, myths and legends.

I received this book from the publisher. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.

Blog Tour and Giveaway: No Woman's Land by Ellie Midwood

No Woman's Land by Ellie Midwood

Publication Date: May 31, 2019

eBook; 368 Pages

Genre: Historical Fiction

“It was very dangerous for him, and he knew it. But his love for me was stronger than fear.” - Ilse Stein This novel is based on the inspiring and moving love story of Ilse Stein, a German Jew, and Willy Schultz, a Luftwaffe Captain in the Minsk ghetto, who risked his life to save the one he loved the most. When the last of the Jews’ rights are stripped in 1941, Ilse’s family is deported to a Minsk ghetto. Confined to a Sonderghetto and unable to speak the locals’ language, Ilse struggles to support the surviving members of her family. Befriended by a local underground member Rivka, Ilse partakes in small acts of resistance and sabotage to help her fellow Jews escape to the partisans. A few months later, after losing almost his entire brigade of workers to one of the bloodiest massacres conducted by the SS, a local administrative officer Willy Schultz summons the survivors to form a new brigade. Ilse’s good looks immediately catch his eye, and he makes her a leader of the new unit and later, an office worker. Soon, an unlikely romance blossoms amid death and gore, moving a Nazi officer to go to great risks to protect not only Ilse but as many others as possible and allowing a Jewish girl to open her heart to the former enemy. Knowing that the ghetto would soon be liquidated, Willy Schultz swears to save Ilse, even if the cost would be his own life. “We live together, or we die together,” - an ultimate oath of love in the most harrowing setting. Dark, haunting, but full of hope, “No Woman’s Land” is a testament to the love that is stronger than fear and death itself.

Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Kobo

About the Author

Ellie Midwood is a best-selling, award-winning historical fiction writer. She's a health-obsessed yoga enthusiast, a neat freak, an adventurer, Nazi Germany history expert, polyglot, philosopher, a proud Jew and a doggie mama. Ellie lives in New York with her fiancé and their Chihuahua named Shark Bait. Readers' Favorite - winner in the Historical Fiction category (2016) - "The Girl from Berlin: Standartenfuhrer's Wife" Readers' Favorite - winner in the Historical Fiction category (2016) - "The Austrian" (honorable mention) New Apple - 2016 Award for Excellence in Independent Publishing - "The Austrian" (official selection) For more information on Ellie and her novels, please visit her website. You can also find her on Facebook, Amazon, and Goodreads.

Blog Tour Schedule

Friday, July 19 Review at Passages to the Past Saturday, July 20 Review at Amy's Booket List Monday, July 22 Review at Locks, Hooks and Books Tuesday, July 23 Feature at Words and Peace Review at Books In Their Natural Habitat Wednesday, July 24 Review at Impressions In Ink Thursday, July 25 Review at Bibliophile Reviews Friday, July 26 Review at 100 Pages a Day Interview at Let Them Read Books Saturday, July 27 Feature at What Is That Book About Monday, July 29 Review at Red Headed Book Lady Tuesday, July 30 Feature at Coffee and Ink Wednesday, July 31 Feature at Broken Teepee Review at Lost_in_a_book_reviewer

Giveaway

During the Blog Tour, we are giving away one paperback copy of No Woman's Land! To enter, please use the Gleam form below. Giveaway Rules – Giveaway ends at 11:59 pm EST on July 31st. You must be 18 or older to enter. – Giveaway is open to the US only. – Only one entry per household. – All giveaway entrants agree to be honest and not cheat the systems; any suspicion of fraud will be decided upon by blog/site owner and the sponsor, and entrants may be disqualified at our discretion. – The winner has 48 hours to claim prize or a new winner is chosen. No Woman's Land

My Review

No Woman's Land: A Holocaust Novel is Ellie Midwood's newest release. It is a fabulous read. Miss Midwood's talent shines through in this one. It tells the powerful story of the tragedies many suffered from the Nazis during World War II. It is, also, a gripping story of hope and survival.

No Woman's Land: A Holocaust Novel is most definitely a must read and I highly recommend it. I am giving it a well deserved five plus stars. I hope to read more by this author in the future. She has earned herself a new fan.

I received this book from the publisher. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.

Blog Tour and Giveaway: A Lady's Guide to Gossip and Murder by Dianne Freeman

A Lady's Guide to Gossip and Murder by Dianne Freeman

Publication Date: June 25, 2019

Kensington Publishing

Hardcover, eBook, AudioBook

Genre: Historical Mystery

How far will some go to safeguard a secret? In the latest novel in Dianne Freeman’s witty and delightful historical mystery series, the adventurous Countess Harleigh finds out... Though American by birth, Frances Wynn, the now-widowed Countess of Harleigh, has adapted admirably to the quirks and traditions of the British aristocracy. On August twelfth each year, otherwise known as the Glorious Twelfth, most members of the upper class retire to their country estates for grouse-shooting season. Frances has little interest in hunting—for birds or a second husband—and is expecting to spend a quiet few months in London with her almost-engaged sister, Lily, until the throng returns. Instead, she’s immersed in a shocking mystery when a friend, Mary Archer, is found murdered. Frances had hoped Mary might make a suitable bride for her cousin, Charles, but their courtship recently fizzled out. Unfortunately, this puts Charles in the spotlight—along with dozens of others. It seems Mary had countless notes hidden in her home, detailing the private indiscretions of society’s elite. Frances can hardly believe that the genteel and genial Mary was a blackmailer, yet why else would she horde such juicy tidbits? Aided by her gallant friend and neighbor, George Hazelton, Frances begins assisting the police in this highly sensitive case, learning more about her peers than she ever wished to know. Too many suspects may be worse than none at all—but even more worrying is that the number of victims is increasing too. And unless Frances takes care, she’ll soon find herself among them...

Amazon | Barnes and Noble | IndieBound

Advance praise for A Lady’s Guide to Gossip and Murder

“Readers will enjoy playing amateur sleuth as they learn what really might be going on behind closed doors in 1899’s best British homes.” —Heather Redmond, author of A Tale of Two Murders “The full cast of talkative aristocrats, the lighthearted tone, and the fast pace will keep readers actively engaged. This would make a wonderful introduction to cozy mysteries for fans of Regency or Victorian romance, and it will also hit the mark for followers of Elizabeth Peters and Deanna Raybourn.” —Booklist “A charming period mystery with enough sexual tension and credible suspects to keep the reader guessing.” –Kirkus

Praise for A Lady's Guide to Etiquette and Murder

“Fans of Georgette Heyer will appreciate the hints of romance, while aficionados of Deanna Raybourn or D.M. Quincy will delight in the banter-filled dialog and period details.”—Library Journal, Starred Review “Fans of witty, lighthearted Victorian mysteries will be enthralled.”- Publishers Weekly Starred Review “This lighthearted debut tale of mystery, love, and a delightful sleuth will leave you wanting more—which is presumably just what Freeman has in mind.”– Kirkus Reviews “A delightful tale of shenanigans among the British aristocracy. Lady Frances feels very real—not too smart and spunky but no shrinking violet either.” —Rhys Bowen, New York Times bestselling author

Excerpt

“What is our next step?” 

He turned back to me, his lips drawn in a thin line. “I’ve been wondering about that myself,” he said. “I should be able to get an update from”—he paused mysteriously—“my contact. Find out what the police have learned from their canvass and from the coroner. They may have found some useful evidence from her home and spoken to her family.”

I felt a sudden surge of excitement. “I could speak to her family. As a friend of Mary’s, I must call on her sister when she arrives in town, and it would certainly be reasonable for me to pay a condolence call on her late husband’s family as well. After you find out what the police learned, you can tell me if there is something you still need to know. As a social equal, I may be able to wheedle those personal details the family may have held back from the police.”

“I don’t know if they would consider themselves your social equals, Countess,” he said with a grin.

“They are new money, to be sure, but our social lives intersect a great deal.” I gave him a careless shrug. “And if they view me as a step above them, it will be only that much easier to gain answers to impertinent questions.”

He pursed his lips again, the muscles in his jaw tightening.

“What?”

“I don’t want you to put yourself in any danger. Right now, we only know Mrs. Archer was murdered; we have no idea why. Just because the police have a theory, doesn’t mean it’s correct. What if one of the family murdered her? I don’t want you asking leading questions of a murderer.”

“I think you are rather putting the cart before the horse. Why not wait and see what you find out by tomorrow and what you still need to learn? I promise not to ask any questions of potential suspects before discussing it with you first. Will that make you feel better?”

He gave me a suspicious smile. “It might if I didn’t think your promise rather ambitious for you. Don’t forget, the last time you investigated on your own someone tried to murder you.” He raised a brow. “You will consult me before taking any action?”

I widened my eyes in an expression of innocence. “This is your investigation. Just the fact that you’re willing to let me participate will keep me on my best behavior. I promise to abide by all your rules and have a care for my safety.” 

I caught a glimpse of self-satisfaction on his face. What was he up to? “I hesitate to look a gift horse in the mouth, George, but I must know why you’re willing to cede some of your responsibility to me.”

He picked up my hand in his. Turning it, he placed a kiss on my wrist, just above the lace of my glove. “I like the idea of you working with me, Frances. I think you’d make an excellent partner. And in this particular matter I truly need your help.”

His words and actions confused me beyond all measure. When he said partner, did he mean in the investigation, or something more? 

“Will you be able to help Charles?” I asked.

He nodded. “This will be a difficult case. Perhaps the only thing worse than no suspect is too many suspects. It would be far too easy to make a case against Charles and forget all about the potential blackmail issue.”

“Unless I find a more likely suspect among Mary’s notes.”

“That’s my hope.” 

So, we were to be partners for this investigation. How silly of me to imagine otherwise. But if it was only my imagination, why was he still caressing my hand?

About the Author

Dianne Freeman is a life-long book lover who left the world of corporate finance to pursue her passion for writing. After co-authoring the non-fiction book, Haunted Highway, The Spirits of Route 66, she realized her true love was fiction, historical mystery in particular. She also realized she didn’t like winter very much so now she and her husband pursue the endless summer by splitting their time between Michigan and Arizona. She's been nominated for an Agatha and the prestigious Mary Higgins Clark Award, and won the 2019 Lefty Award for Best Debut Mystery.

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

Blog Tour Schedule

Tuesday, June 25 Review at Book Frolic Review at The Lit Bitch Wednesday, June 26 Review at Macsbooks Excerpt at To Read, Or Not to Read Thursday, June 27 Review at A Chick Who Reads Friday, June 28 Excerpt at The Book Junkie Reads Saturday, June 29 Feature at Historical Fiction with Spirit Sunday, June 30 Review at Oh, The Books She Will Read Monday, July 1 Review at Mama's Reading Corner Tuesday, July 2 Interview at Maiden of the Pages Wednesday, July 3 Review at Bibliophile Reviews Thursday, July 4 Interview at Passages to the Past Friday, July 5 Review at A Darn Good Read Review & Excerpt at Locks, Hooks and Books Saturday, July 6 Review & Interview at Jorie Loves A Story

Giveaway

During the Blog Tour, one winner will receive a paperback copy of A Lady's Guide to Gossip and Murder and a $10 Amazon Gift Card! To enter, please use the Gleam form below. Giveaway Rules – Giveaway ends at 11:59 pm EST on July 6th. You must be 18 or older to enter. – Giveaway is open to the US only. – Only one entry per household. – All giveaway entrants agree to be honest and not cheat the systems; any suspicion of fraud is decided upon by blog/site owner and the sponsor, and entrants may be disqualified at our discretion. – The winner has 48 hours to claim prize or a new winner is chosen. Lady's Guide to Gossip and Murder

My Review

A Lady's Guide to Gossip and Murder, book two from Dianne Freeman's series, A Countess of Harleigh Mystery, is a fun read. Even though this is felt it could be read as a stand alone. I would still love to read the first one to see what happened prior to this one. I found Frances to be a delightful and entertaining character. The mystery she was pulled into kept guessing how it would all end.

I am giving A Lady's Guide to Gossip and Murder five stars. I look forward to more from A Countess of Harleigh Mystery series in the future.

I received this book from the publisher. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.