Tag: Historical Romance Page 2 of 46

Young Men, Beware Scheming Ladies!

On September 25, 2024

Romance in the Snow

Dear Reader,

We have another most interesting report of a romantic liaisons to share with you.

It has come to the notice of the Teatime Tattler that a certain Miss A, a young woman—I hesitate to say ‘lady’—in her third season has at last managed to obtain a spouse, and one with a future title, at that. Or, at least, she has extracted the promise of one, as the deed is not yet done. Mr P may yet manage to extricate himself from the situation, for it appears that some subterfuge was involved by the young lady in bringing herself to his notice.

A certain Lady F informs me that the young woman was aided by the recent heavy snowfall, which incarcerated such members of the house party who had already arrived for some days longer than they expected to remain. That was not the only benefit to her schemes, however, for she managed not once, but twice, to fall in the snow when Mr P was nearby, and took advantage of his gentlemanly actions in assisting her. Surely two such falls cannot be accidental?

Will the young man escape the toils of the schemer? Time will tell, but be sure that the Teatime Tattler will report on any developments.

A Winter’s Romance: A Regency Anthology

Jayne Davis is pleased to present her short story, Advice to Young Ladies, which will be part of an anthology including stories by Penny Hampson, Christina Dudley, Judith Hale Everett, Audrey Harrison, and GL Robinson.

Advice to Young Ladies

Ben Paynton is in no hurry to find a spouse. Neither is Kate Ardley, but she accompanies her stepmother and sister to Lady Paynton’s house party. When snow prevents most of the male guests arriving, Ben is thrown into the company of the young women his mother has invited rather more than he had planned, and begins to think that Kate might be someone he could spend the rest of his life with. Then an unexpected discovery shows Kate in a very different light.

Extract

Kate chose a vantage point from which to make her sketch. She wouldn’t have much time to draw before her fingers froze, but she relished the challenge of depicting this mostly white, snow-covered landscape. Her spot chosen, she took a step away from the cleared path and unfastened her satchel.

Absorbed in the drawing taking shape on her paper, Kate didn’t hear the quiet crunching of approaching footsteps on the path.

“Good morning, Miss Ardley.”

Startled, Kate turned to face Mr Paynton and took a step back. A step into snow that gave way beneath her foot. Her sketchbook, pencil, and the contents of the satchel all went flying as she waved her arms in an attempt to keep her balance, but to no avail. She fell, landing on her back in deep snow, seeing only sky above her. Snow found its way inside the neck of her pelisse and soaked through her stockings and boots, making her shiver. She struggled to sit up—not easy with her legs stuck in the snow.

“Are you hurt?” Mr Paynton gazed down at her.

“No.” No thanks to him. She managed to roll over and pushed herself to her feet, soaking her hands and arms in the process.

“I’m sorry I startled you. Take my hand.”

She reached up; his grip was firm, and she gasped as he hauled her effortlessly to his own level, then put a hand in the small of her back to steady her as she staggered towards the cleared path. “Thank you, sir.”

He gingerly stepped down into the hole she had made in the snow, and handed her satchel up to her. “Allow me to escort you back to the house.”

“No need, thank you, sir.” She had no wish to prolong the embarrassing encounter. Looking on the bright side of things, her undignified fall must have killed any interest he might have had in her, so she had no need to worry about that. Unfortunately, that thought did little to cheer her.

About the Author

Jayne Davis was hooked on Georgette Heyer and Jane Austen from her teens, and always wanted to be a writer, but it was several decades and several careers before she self-published her first Regency Romance. Now she has 14 romances published, all set in the Regency or Georgian Eras, and has also co-authored Writing Regency England to help other authors with their own writing.

Author Links

Website: https://www.jaynedavisromance.co.uk/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jaynedavisromance/

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/17587608.Jayne_Davis

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.co.uk/jaynedavis142/

Was a Proverbial “Beast” Importuning a Charming Beauty?

By Alina K. Field

On September 18, 2024

In Teatime Tattler

A Shocking Tale out of Bath

Dear Readers,

In our quest to provide you with the latest on dits, we have recently obtained a copy of a correspondence from two ladies with some interesting information from Bath. Read on!

Dear Felicity,

I hope you continue well and that your recent visit here to take the waters has proved beneficial. I did so enjoy being able to share with you the delights of this pleasant town and hope that your good health continues.

Now, do you recall Molland’s, the charming pastry shop we visited on Milsom Street, the one with the delicious pastries? I’m sure you do, we both rather indulged ourselves, if I recall.

Anyway, that is by the by. Feeling the need for some sustenance, I made another visit to Molland’s only the other day. As you know, I am not one for gossip, but I must tell you what I observed.

I took my usual seat near the window as it gives one a wonderful view of the passers-by. I ordered a pot of tea and a Bath bun, to which as you know, I am very partial. I’d barely poured the first cup when a most imposing gentleman came in. I say imposing, he was very tall and what I could see of his face at that point, for it was obscured by a hat pulled down low, was rather dark complexioned. My guess is he had recently returned from overseas.

The gentleman then took himself to the darkest corner of the shop; I could only view him by contorting my neck to such an extreme that I quite thought I’d do myself a mischief.

But what a sight! I very near had to resort to my vinaigrette, such was the horror of his visage. So badly scarred that it was not fit to be seen by any female with pretensions to sensibility.

Thank goodness, I have a strong constitution, so the enjoyment of my Bath bun was not curtailed.

Some time later, the gentleman left (I thought it wise to remain and observe which direction he should take before I myself departed). Having crossed the road, he seemed about to enter Earl’s Emporium. What should happen, but he collided with a young woman, almost knocking her over. She appeared a respectable young woman, dressed plainly, not the showy sort at all.

Now, I cannot say for certain that this collision was deliberate, but the following events would seem to suppose that it was. He took her by the arm, and after a short discussion, he led her into the shop. Now, my dear, what do you think? Had he importuned an innocent young lady? I cannot sleep for thinking about it. Should I have abandoned my tea and bun to forestall what I am sure will be the ruination of an innocent young lady?

I’m afraid that I do not know the outcome of this event as I was forced to leave Molland’s shortly after – any longer, and it would have been necessary to order another pot of tea, which was beyond my pecuniary means.

Yours ever,

Cassandra

A Winter’s Romance: A Regency Anthology

Penny Hampson, Audrey Harrison, Christina Dudley, GL Robinson, Jayne Davis, and Judith Hale Everett are pleased to present a collection of short stories perfect for warming you up this winter! A Christmas Wish, by Penny Hampson, will be of interest to anyone reading Cassandra Cavendish’s letter: When a disfigured army officer inherits the guardianship of a young girl, he never dreams she would be in the charge of a charming and pretty teacher.

Available for preorder on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Winters-Romance-Regency-Anthology-ebook/dp/B0DG3R12L1

Penny Hampson writes mysteries, and because she has a passion for history, you’ll find her stories also reflect that. A Gentleman’s Promise, a traditional Regency romance, was Penny’s debut novel and the first of her Gentlemen Series. There are now three novels in the series, with the fourth, An Adventurer’s Contract, due to be released by the end of 2024.

Penny lives with her family in Oxfordshire, and when she is not writing, she enjoys reading, walking, swimming, and the odd gin and tonic (not all at the same time).

For more on Penny’s writing, visit her blog: https://pennyhampson.co.uk/blog/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/penny_hampson

Facebook: www.facebook.com/pennyhampsonauthor

Instagram: @pennyhampsonauthor/

Penny’s books are all available on Amazon: viewauthor.at/Pennysbooks

Scandal Among the Stones

By Alina K. Field

On August 7, 2024

In Guest author, Teatime Tattler

Dearest Readers,

It is really too much, ladies and gentlemen of the Ton. One finds it difficult to write with decorum when such an affront to our society has been revealed. There is, I regret to inform you, a family hiding among us who does not belong. These brazen parvenus are jewelers by trade, dripping in riches yet utterly devoid of noble blood that would warrant their place amongst our esteemed ranks.

Now, before you clutch your pearls in horror, rest assured that many of you have already unknowingly contributed to their advancement. Yes, indeed, many of you have purchased some of the finest bracelets, medallions, and diamond rings from these imposters. Their craftsmanship is undeniable, but let us not be fooled—merit alone will not earn them a place in our society.

The jewelers must not infiltrate the Ton by merit alone. It’s a privilege only bloodlines can give. Don’t you agree with me?

However, a twist of fate has arrived, one that promises both excitement and dread. The Prince Regent himself has announced a grand competition. Twelve jewelers, the best in London, have been selected, and only one will be chosen at the winter ball. Should this family of clandestine upstarts win, they will earn their place at Court in St. James.

It must not come to pass! Such an outcome would be a travesty, shaking the very foundations of our social order. I, Lady Carol Bustle-Smith, pledge to unleash my wrath upon them. I shall do my very worst to thwart their success and any burgeoning love stories they might entertain along the way.

So, dear readers, keep your eyes sharp and your wits sharper. This winter ball shall be a spectacle, and you can trust that your devoted Lady Carol will leave no stone unturned to ensure these jewelers remain precisely where they belong—on the fringes of our society.

Yours, devotedly,

Lady Carol Bustle-Smith

Read the trilogy and find out how the jewelers triumph and earn their place in society while forging bonds along the way that even the evil gossip of the Ton, Lady Carol Bustle-Smith, can’t break.

Book1 – Margins of Love – Fave’s story
Book 2 – The Pearl of All Brides – Arnold’s story
Book 3 – A Kiss After Tea – Lizzie’s story

“One of the Best Regency Romance Novels in 2022 . . . a Masterful Combination of Historical Romance with Jewish Fiction”
– Yahoo! News

About the Author

Bestselling author Sara Adrien writes hot, heart-melting regency romance with a Jewish twist. As a law professor-turned-author, she writes about clandestine identities, whims of fate, and sizzling seduction. If you like unique and intelligent characters, deliciously sexy scenes, and the nostalgia of afternoon tea, then you’ll adore Sara Adrien’s tender tear-jerkers. She is the author of the series Infiltrating the Ton, Diamond Dynasty, Check Mates, and Miracles on Harley Street. Get 50% off her #1 bestselling 9-book bundle https://www.saraadrien.com/products/diamond-of-the-ton-collection-1

Instagram: @jewishregencyromance

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorSaraAdrien

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/22249825.Sara_Adrien

Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/sara-adrien

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/s?i=digital-text&rh=p_27%3ASara+Adrien

A Shocking Sight at the Covent Garden Market

By Alina K. Field

On July 10, 2024

In Teatime Tattler

Dear Readers, today we have a most interesting report from one of our regular correspondents:

As we have all been speculating about the missing Siltsbury heir, who was finally located in an island in the West Indies, I must report a shocking sight a reliable source recently witnessed. That very heir, who has finally made an appearance in Town, was seen at the Covent Garden market in the company of none other than his housekeeper.

Who would not want to be on the arm of such a dashing rogue. That lustrous hair, that exemplary physique, and those full lips that curve up into a mocking smile are enough to make even a staid matron like myself swoon. But I digress (as I fan myself).

My source said the woman had the audacity to take his arm as they strolled about. Can you believe it? Of course the new Earl of Siltsbury might be accustomed to associating with women who are, shall we say, not of the highest class? It’s said he served on sailing ships and engaged in something called Cornish wrestling, until the family solicitor traced his whereabouts and brought him home.

He has been seen at Jackson’s Boxing Saloon, Tattersalls, and White’s as the guest of Lord Ralston, whose wife is his cousin. But while he is now invited everywhere by those of us whose curiosity must be assuaged, the man has declined to appear in society, dashing hopes of the dozen or so suitable debutantes in search of a rich husband. Did I mention the Siltsbury fortune? Of course, such a topic is not suitable for this esteemed publication. I do beg your pardon.

During his visit to the market he was seen carrying parcels. I am not jesting. No other servant accompanied them and the lady, or I should say female, seemed quite taken with him when they departed in a hired hackney. Not the Siltsbury carriage!

My impeccable source also whispered that the housekeeper seemed vaguely familiar. In fact, she bore a subtle resemblance to the wife of the late Baron Colford who died tragically nearly two years ago.

Oh, I do love a mystery, don’t you? I’m sure all will be revealed before the household removes themselves from town.

Your humble correspondent,

Lady W.

The Reluctant Earl

Gerren Stafford, sailor and Cornish wrestler, ran away to sea when his gentle older brother was taunted and killed in a duel, and vowed never to set foot in his homeland again. When a stranger informs him he is the new Earl of Siltsbury, Gerren reluctantly returns to England with a hidden purpose, and to assume a role for which he is woefully unprepared.

Then he meets Anna.

Anna Jeffries is a baroness who is keeping her aristocratic connections a secret. She uses her new position as Siltsbury housekeeper to hide from her late husband’s successor, a man she suspects arranged her husband’s death and is now threatening her with harm if she “dares to spread her vile rumors.”

Drawn together by friendship, loneliness, and hidden emotional wounds, Anna and Gerren find solace in passion. But can they find an enduring love or are there too many secrets and lies between them?

Excerpt

When the wrestling match began Gerren circled his opponent, slightly bent at the waist, his arms hanging loosely at his sides. Then he made his move. He aimed for the legs then picked up the man and slammed him on his back, getting an elbow in his nose for his effort. When the fellow rose, they danced around until a second slam kept his opponent on the floor. It took five minutes, not ten, to be declared the winner. The man signaled his moves and Gerren read them easily.

Wiping away the blood trickling over his mouth and chin with the back of his hand, he concentrated on his next opponent and easily outwitted him. Some nights the matches were more even and despite the rules, he’d had fingers broken and a shoulder dislocated that a sawbones had to wrench back into place.

The last brute was a big ‘un, taking all of his strength as they danced around each other in a gruesome minuet, grappling, grunting, and finally slamming each other to the floor several times. At the end of the hour Gerren had more pins and remained undefeated. When the announcement was made, the crowd went wild. The noise in the crowded room didn’t abate until someone began singing a bawdy song and others joined in.

Gerren slipped away to his personal bucket of water outside the back door where he could clean himself in peace. When he finished wiping the blood from his face, he wasn’t alone.

Shiny boots appeared first, followed by a silver-headed walking stick. Sluicing the last of the water over his head and shoulders, he toweled himself dry and hoped he wouldn’t miss that nice tankard of ale waiting for him down the street.

“Oy, what do you want? If it’s to rebuke me for winning when you bet on the other lads, come back next week and wager on the winner this time.” Gerren set his towel aside and pulled on a clean shirt. “State your business. I have a place I need to be.”

“Are you Gerren Stafford from Falmouth?”

“I am although I make my home here in Kingston for now. Haven’t been back in a dozen years. Why?”

“Is there somewhere we can talk privately.”

Gerren glanced at the darkened alley behind the warehouse. “I guess you can say this is as private as it gets. State your business.”

“Your father was Charles Stafford, younger brother of Mathew Stafford, the late Earl of Siltsbury. Charles predeceased his two older brothers.”

“You been studying my pedigree? Say what you’re here to say and be done with it.”

The man took a packet from an inside pocket of his coat. “Gerren Alexander Stafford, my name is Harold Jenkins. I’m the solicitor for the Siltsbury estate and I’ve been looking for you for more than a year.”

“Out with it, man.” Gerren’s body, even in a win, took a beating and he wanted his ale and a woman’s soft bed and body. He had no patience for a fool on a fool’s errand.

“In November, 1818, Mathew Stafford, sixth Earl of Siltsbury, succumbed to a wasting disease in Baltimore, Maryland. He had no male heir, nor did he have any living brothers. Your deceased grandfather and your father were the only ones with male issues and your uncles, like your father, have all predeceased you.”

“What in bloody hell is this about?”

“Congratulations, my lord. It is my duty and my pleasure to inform you that you are the new Earl of Siltsbury and I’m here to take you home.”

Buy link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D92P368D/

About the Author

Author of eight books on California history and twenty-two romance novels, Pamela Gibson is a former City Manager who retired with her husband to the Southern Nevada desert. Having spent several years messing about in boats, a hobby that included a five-thousand-mile trip in a 32-foot Nordic Tug, she now spends most of her time indoors happily reading, writing, cooking and keeping up with the antics of Ralph, her Siamese cat. She loves dry red wine, all kinds of chocolate, old Jimmy Buffet sailing songs, and curling up with a good book. You can find her in these places:

Bookbub: www.bookbub.com/profile/pamela-gibson

Facebook: www.facebook.com/pamgibsonwrites/

Twitter (X): www.twitter.com/pamgibsonwrites

Instagram: www.instagram.com/authorpamelagibson

Threads: www.threads.com/authorpamelagibson

Website: www.pamelagibsonwrites.com

Goodreads: www.goodreads.com/pamgibsonwrites

Amazon: www.amazon.com/Pamela-Gibson/e/B00MKVB4XE

A Most Intriguing Game of Love and Strategy

By Alina K. Field

On July 3, 2024

In Teatime Tattler

High Stakes, in Chess–and Love!

Ladies and Gentlemen, gather your teacups and prepare your fans for fluttering, for today’s tittle-tattle traverses the tantalizing tale of Baron Gregory Stone, known in the shadows of London’s candlelit corridors as the Black Knight. Not for his sable attire nor for his darkly handsome visage, but for his prowess on the chessboard, where he reigns supreme. Yet, it appears our Baron has found himself in a game far more perilous than chess—a game of the heart.

Miss Hermione “Hermy” Ellsworth, a gem of the countryside, once radiant in the glow of London’s ballrooms, has found herself in a predicament most dire. Exiled due to a scandal that whispers cannot name, she seeks independence from the shackles of an arranged marriage, dictated by her late brother’s will. Her guardian, none other than our Black Knight himself, holds the key to her future. But dear readers, it is not only her freedom at stake but also her heart—for it once beat fervently for the Baron.

Baron Stone, amidst the intrigue of Parliament and the cutthroat tactics of chess, now faces his greatest challenge. With but two weeks to alter the course of Miss Ellsworth’s fate, he is drawn into a web of societal pressures and villainous schemes. A correspondence chess game, shadowy in its intent, becomes the battleground for her independence, his career, and the well-being of their mutual friends, the Pearlers.

The stakes? Nothing less than the Baron’s lost love and the very fabric of society itself.

Will our dashing Black Knight outmaneuver his adversaries both on the board and in the ballrooms? Can love indeed trump the rigid dictates of Regency London? This tale weaves through the heart of a battle for love and liberty, promising intrigue at every turn.

“Baron in Check” promises a tour de force of romantic adventures, with suitors bold and socialites cunning. Our characters dance through the glittering backdrop of Regency London, each move calculated, each glance significant. And amidst the sparkling wit and whispered secrets, one question remains—will the Black Knight capture his queen, or will the game of love prove too treacherous?

Dear readers, keep your eyes peeled and your ears open, for in this season of romance and strategy, every move counts. And remember, in the game of love and chess, it’s the heart that’s the true prize.

With all the affection—and a sprinkle of mischief—I remain,

Your devoted chronicler of hearts and secrets as I will make an impression in this story myself,

Baroness Sophia von List

Blurb

Baron in Check is the first book in the Check Mates series. It has been a #1 bestseller in several categories on Amazon and has received outstanding feedback from readers. The story brings Gregory Stone back who’s proven himself as a devoted friend in the Infiltrating the Ton and Diamond Dynasty series. Get 50% off the book bundle and save on the Check Mate series at www.SaraAdrien.com.