Category: Teatime Tattler Page 100 of 152

Much Ado about a Great Book

On October 20, 2018

Dear Mr. Clemens,

There has been much ado about Follow Your Star Home, the latest offering from the Bluestocking Belles. I want to say one more word in praise of this collection of holiday stories. Readers can do themselves no greater favor to themselves, can give little better gift to friends, family, and even strangers than to read these stories. This collection of tales honors trust, loyalty, faith in a higher power, and the miracle of love between family as well as lovers. What could possibly be wrong with such stories. I admit to some bias. As one of the authors and a privileged reader of the first drafts, I’ve witnessed the evolution of each tale from rough to polished draft. The attention paid to detail by the Belles is meticulous and rewarding in both historical information, human behavior, and matters of the heart. I am honored to be in the company of these very talented women. To prove my point, I include a line from each story. These small samples, will show the stories written by the Belles to be irresistible. Mark my words, sir, the Bluestocking Belles are a literary force to be reckoned with and their stories are experiences not to be missed.

Sincerely,

Rue Allyn

“Come on, now, you lazy piece of vermin,” she said crossly. “Wake up, and help me help you.” A Yule Love Story by Nicole Zoltack

“What witchery is this that you come afore me in my dreams?” he all but growled out. “This is my dream, you crazy ghost!” One Last Kiss by Sherry Ewing

“I take it that my father is willing to accept Lady James and our children with the same enthusiasm?” Paradise Regained by Jude Knight

Glancing around, he stepped closer, lifted the locks off her neck and kissed the soft white skin beneath. Somewhere Like Home by Lizzi Tremayne

“Heed me, lad. You must follow this plan to the letter. No skipping steps. No combining steps. And no funny business.” The Umbrella Chronicles: James and Annie’s Story by Amy Quinton

“You’re a toad, Caibre, and I wouldn’t marry you if you were the last toad on earth.” A Wish for All Seasons by Rue Allyn

“How can I produce a marriage certificate if you won’t give me leave to get married? The Last Post by Caroline Warfield

“Well that’s fine thanks!” she called. “I get you a job and you get yourself run over!” A Fine Chance by Elizabeth Ellen Carter

Follow Your Star Home will be released on November 4, 2018 and is available for pre-order now.

Buy Links

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Belles-Christmas-Title-Still-Under-ebook/dp/B07H4ZY517/

Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/894110

Kobo: https://www.kobo.com/nz/en/ebook/belles-christmas-2018-box-set-title-still-under-wraps/

Blurb: Forged for lovers, the Viking star ring is said to bring lovers together, no matter how far, no matter how hard.

In eight stories, cvering more than half the world and a thousand years, our heroes and heroines put the legend to the test. Watch the star work its magic, as prodigals return home in the season of good will, uncertain of their welcome.

25% of proceeds benefit the Malala Fund.

More information about The Bluestocking Belles is available here:

Website: https://bluestockingbelles.net
Teatime Tattler: https://bluestockingbelles.net/category/teatime-tattler/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bellesinblue/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BellesInBlue
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/bellesinblue/

Gossip in the 19th Century

By Guest author

On October 17, 2018

In Guest author, Teatime Tattler

Mr. and Mrs. Fottingham’s maid was found in the stable with a young craftsman? And they were sitting beside one another on bales of hay?

Emma Collins said she missed the church service due to illness, but was seen looking quite healthy beyond a window by a neighbour?

Someone stole chickens from the coop behind the house where Florence Bickle lives? To which someone replied, “Who else could it be but one of the rude, poor, lazy unkempt boys who hang around town begging for handouts?

Mrs. Blanchard actually has grey hair but uses hair dye regularly so no one can tell?

***

The word gossip has negative connotations pretty much around the world. The Oxford English Dictionary states that the earliest recorded use of the word was in the 11^th century, but it’s meaning was different than it is today. The word gossip referred to a child’s godparent and started off as godsibb or god sibling. Because godmothers often assisted with childbirth and were present in most women-only events, the word became synonymous with women who talked … a lot.

By the mid-eighteen hundreds, gossip was in regular use. It was considered delectable and titillating. By the mid-nineteenth century, gossip sheets and columns were highly popular with readers, if not with the people mentioned.

Victorian Town

Abby Parker planned out her whole life: complete her final year of high school, go to college, get a job, move away from her insane family, stay best friends with Jessica.

But that was before she broke into the nearby tourist attraction and unwittingly answered a call from a centuries-old spirit who dragged her into the 19th century.

Now she must solve a Victorian mystery without getting herself killed, or worse, spend a lifetime trapped in the past, leaving behind everyone she loves and altering their lives forever.

When she meets gorgeous Benjamin, the future looks a lot like wreckage.

Meet Nancy Thorne

An acclaimed author of short stories, Nancy Thorne’s debut novel Victorian Town is a time-hopping, paranormal romance featuring a high-school girl out to solve a century-old murder. She lives just outside of Toronto with her two sons and an energetic fox-red Labrador.

Hers for the taking…

By Sherry Ewing

On October 13, 2018

In Sherry Ewing, Teatime Tattler

Fira stomped her foot, frustration etched its way across her face. Why, oh why, whenever she started to have feelings for a man did he turn around and give his affection to another. She stormed into Berwyck’s kitchen but not before she turned back to gaze into the hall one more time.

There she was… another woman who found her way to the castle to create a buzz as several knights began vying for her attention. A lady, Fira had been told, but the stranger did not act like any lady she had served before. Most demanded Fira’s time to fulfill their every little whim. This woman had yet to ask anything of a mere serving girl.

“He is a handsome one, isna he, Fira?” One of the women in the kitchen sighed while the rest giggled.

Sir Gaillard de Rowen was indeed a man who knew how to catch a woman’s eye. Did he not just yester eve hint he would like to get to know her better? “Oh, aye,” Fira answered with a dreamy smile. “Gaillard makes me swoon just thinking of him.”

The women broke out in laughter causing Fira to frown.

“Have ye no eyes in yer head, lass?” Cook chimed in. “We were talking about Sir Thomas.”

Fira went back to the entry to the hall. Hope lingered in her heart thinking she might still have a chance. Where Sir Thomas was dark, Sir Gaillard was fair. Her attention focused on the trio across the hall. The two men were now with Lady Jade and Sir Thomas did not look pleased. As Fira watched the woman take Sir Thomas’s hand as he led her to the raised dais, Fira’s heart soared. She still had a chance with Sir Gaillard!

“I prefer the other knight,” Fira finally replied.

One woman spoke up from the table as she kneaded dough. “Ye best stay clear of the likes of him, if ye know what’s good for ye, Fira” she said with a smirk.

“He is good for me,” Fira retorted, “and has been nothing but kind.”

“He only wants one thing from ye,” another called out, “and he can get the same from any of the whores in the village.”

Fira whirled upon the group with a raised fist. “I tell ye, he does care for me!”

“Why would he settle for a serf when he can have some rich liedy?” another asked.

“The only thing Sir Gaillard is good for is eating, drinking,…”

“…and puttin’ a babe in yer belly,” another finished whilst the women once more erupted in laughter.

Fira ignored them, along with their crude comments that continued to cause laughter in the kitchen. Grabbing another pitcher of wine, she put a smile on her face and went back to serving. If she played the game well, she just might find herself wed to Sir Gaillard before the new lady at the castle realized what a catch the man really was!

You can learn more about Sir Thomas, Jade, and Gaillard in One Last Kiss: The Knights of Berwyck, A Quest Through Time novella found in the Bluestocking Belles’ 2018 box set, Follow Your Star Home.

Sometimes it takes a miracle to find your heart’s desire…

Scotland, 1182: Banished from his homeland, Thomas of Clan Kincaid lives among distant relatives, reluctantly accepting he may never return home… until the castle’s healer tells him of a woman traveling across time…

Dare he believe the impossible?

Present Day, Michigan: Jade Calloway is used to being alone, and as Christmas approaches, she’s skeptical when told she’ll embark on an extraordinary journey. But when a ring magically appears, and she sees a ghostly man in her dreams…

Dare she believe in the possible?

Follow Your Star Home
Release Date: November 4, 2018
Special pre-order price of $2.99

Divided sweethearts seek love and forgiveness in this collection of seasonal novellas.

Forged for lovers, the Viking star ring is said to bring lovers together, no matter how far, no matter how hard.

In eight stories covering more than a thousand years, our heroes and heroines put this legend to the test. Watch the star work its magic as prodigals return home in the season of goodwill, uncertain of their welcome.

Buy Links:

Bio:

Sherry Ewing picked up her first historical romance when she was a teenager and has been hooked ever since. A bestselling author, she writes historical and time travel romances to awaken the soul one heart at a time at night. You can learn more about Sherry and her published work at the links below.

Find Sherry Ewing at:

Website & Books: www.SherryEwing.com
Bluestocking Belles: https://bluestockingbelles.net/
Hearts Through Time: http://heartsthroughtime.com
Amazon: http://amzn.to/1TrWtoy
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/sherry-ewing
Facebook: https://www.Facebook.com/SherryEwingAuthor
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/goodreadscomsherry_ewing
Instagram: https://instagram.com/sherry.ewing
Pinterest: http://www.Pinterest.com/SherryLEwing
Tumblr: https://sherryewing.tumblr.com/
Twitter: https://www.Twitter.com/Sherry_Ewing

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Groundbreaking Ceremonies Take Place for New Religious Compound Outside Reno, Nevada

By Bluestocking Belles

On October 10, 2018

In Guest author, Teatime Tattler

From the Reno Gazette-Journal

Easter Sunday-1865

While Easter Sunday services were held today in nearby Virginia City, residents of the growing town of Reno were curiously invited to the groundbreaking of Christ’s Community Compound, an endeavor spearheaded by two of Lake’s Crossing’s original founding members, Rufus and Katherine Monroe. The couple, along with their daughter Elizabeth and her husband, Reverend Lionel Bane, braved the freezing temperatures and blistering wind to pray at the site of the place the Banes will eventually call home.

The plans submitted to Reno’s newly formed advisory board provide for a large chapel, dormitories for single men and women as well as married couples, a stately home for the Banes, stables, a large meeting hall with an adjacent kitchen, and a workshop. Reverend Bane shared his thanks with those in attendance, saying, “The Lord’s work will continue here in this new state of Nevada, and God will bless us all.”

Funding for the project seems to be a subject of mystery. All financial records submitted are in the name of the Monroes, but some townfolk believe that Reverend Bane and his brothers, William and Nathaniel, came to Lake’s Crossing four years ago with dubious intentions and there are rumors that they have obtained a strange hold over the Monroes and others in their employ. Since their arrival, tales of extortion, coercion, and ill-gotten gains have followed their every move, especially after their youngest brother, Jonah Bane, disappeared with Monroe’s daughter Julianna, and their youngest daughter Victoria died in a tragic fall from the Inn at Lake’s Crossing.

The Journal staff have attempted to interview those close to the Monroes to no avail. The size and scale of this compound have neighbors worried. One businessperson in town went so far as to claim the Banes were in league with some sort of demonic entity, but there has been no evidence to back up her accusations. The Journal went so far as to send one of its junior reporters to the Inn at Lake’s Crossing, and that reporter, Nigel Glasgow, has not been seen since. The Journal will keep the community apprised of any developments.

About The Book…

The Banes of Lake’s Crossing: Origins

The Biggest Little City in the World was founded on a lie. History tells us that the city called Reno, Nevada, was founded as a gambling haven for silver miners and later the divorce capital. But it goes deeper than that. It goes as deep as the lines from which the silver came. In 1860, four brothers tunneled beneath the surface, looking to find the next Comstock Lode. They left their families behind in search of the valuable metals being brought forth from the Earth in order to do the Lord’s work.

Legend has it that the four men who went down into the Earth as good, solid Christian men returned as something more sinister, their good intentions abandoned. They became possessed by a force more evil than could be imagined, and their hold on the residents of what was known then as Lake’s Crossing allowed them to gain unfathomable powers.

“Each installment of this compilation will tantalize and terrify you. An absolute must read!”

Kerrigan Byrne
International bestselling author of the Victorian Rebels Series

________________________________________

The Fourth Man by R.L. Merrill

Lake’s Crossing was a fairly new settlement in 1862, but Julianna Monroe had already seen the worst of humanity cross their bridge seeking shelter. One blustery fall night, four well-dressed men enter her family’s inn, and she immediately senses their otherness. Despite her concerns for self-preservation, she is drawn to the fourth man. Quiet, brooding, and different from his elder brothers, Julianna is intrigued by Jonah and soon realizes it is time to choose a husband before the choice is made for her. But when the elder Bane brothers threaten her safety, will Jonah be strong enough to stand up to them and protect her? Or will she become yet another victim of the Banes’ evil influence?

Hell’s Belles by Ellay Branton

When her most loyal client and friend falls under the mysterious control of the Bane brothers, Arabella Kimpton knows she has to do something to save him. Convincing Zach Upton that his little brother is in big trouble won’t be easy. The sexy rancher knows all about her business as an owner of Hell’s Belles Saloon – and that she spends a lot of time alone with his brother. Arabella will have to risk everything to gain Zach’s trust and save Jerry. But the gamble might leave her with a broken heart…if she survives the wrath of the sinister Bane brothers.

The Silver Brooch by Kimberlie L. Faye

Miss Penelope Webb is ready to start fresh. A midwife with a gift and a pure soul, she’s hired by Lionel Bane for the birth of his second child. She’s determined to start anew in Lake’s Crossing and leave her past behind her. Little does she know the Bane brothers rule the town and folks are not quite themselves. Penny has caught the ire of William, the large and imposing younger brother. He oozes menace and disdain and darkness is embedded in his soul. Despite his danger, she’s inexplicably drawn to him.

Should she risk her heart and her secrets for a chance at love with a man who has a damned soul?

The Banes Of Lake’s Crossing – Origins is the first of a trilogy set in this world. A follow-up short story featuring Nathaniel Bane was released in March 2018. Look for part two in October 2018.

The Banes of Lake’s Crossing: Origins: https://goo.gl/2ezZck

The Redemption of Nathaniel Bane: https://goo.gl/vh9kRK

For more information, you can find us at the following sites:

R.L. Merrill: www.rlmerrillauthor.com

Ellay Branton: https://www.ellaybranton.com/books

Kimberlie L. Faye: https://www.kimberlielfaye.com/

Writers Needed; The Newsroom Quakes

By Bluestocking Belles

On October 6, 2018

In Teatime Tattler

The Tattler newsroom is in an uproar. Lady Caroline Warfield swept into the premises summoned—summoned!—by Sam Clemens. She slammed his door so hard the wall vibrated and now the staff: printers, correspondents, ink boys, paper sellers, and all held their breath. Did she know she would find that Mrs. Knight had already arrived? Of course she must know. The Bluestocking Belles communicate constantly.

Milly, the maid of all work, stood with her ear to the door. “She told him the Belles ‘have their hands full,’ and she said its his fault for printing all those letters attacking their Teatime Tattler book, Follow Your Star Home.” Milly grinned over her shoulder. “Sam said, ‘Spelled yer names right din’t they?'”

The staff smirked in unison. Trust Sam. He taught them all publicity is good as long as they spell your name right. That tight-rumped clergy fellow Blowworthey set off a firestorm, but he brought the readers in didn’t he?

Milly leaned down again, “The Knight woman says the Belles have been so busy undoing the damage they didn’t get their usual story in today, and it serves us right.”

“Serves us right?” Ian Pennywhistle, a junior correspondent, demanded. He scribbled down the words. He’d been documenting the whole incident.

“She says we ought to recruit more Wednesday guest author stories and not leave it to them to do.” Pennywhistle wrote that down. Milly shrugged and leaned over to listen and was almost knocked over when the door swung open and the two women left.

“The ladies swanned out leaving Clemens in a fine rage…” Pennywhistle said, putting pen to paper. “I always wanted to write a sentence with ‘swanned,'” he said with self-satisfied glee.

Clemens glared at the young man. “We don’t get 1000 views and more a month because people like your vocabulary. They read to sop up the gossip behind authors’ books, the good stuff, not your drivel. We need more. The schedule is almost empty aside from two weeks in November. January’s even emptier. Bring me some writers.”

The newsroom emptied in a flash.

Read the high-performing articles below to find out what Sam loves to see in the Teatime Tattler, or sign up to write your own, and to advertise your book (new or one from your backlist).

The Mistress and The Wife — by Laura Libricz

A Guillotine Widow Takes Tea on the Isle of Guernsey — by Regan Walker

Lady Farrow Determined to See Her Daughter Wed — by Nadine Millard

The Mistress and the Wife — The Soldier’s Return, by Laura Libritz

A base-born son, a hasty marriage — The Bastard’s Iberian Bride, by Alina K. Field

Mrs Bingham tries again — The Rake and His Honour, by Beth Elliott

Be Careful What You Ask a Hero — Only a Hero Will Do, by Alanna Lucas

Duke in Disguise — To Dodge a Duke, by Naomi Bloom

Overheard at the Courtesan’s Ball — The Pleasure House Ball, by Suzi Love