In Memorium

Prayers and thoughts to the people of Paris.

Saturday Sampler: LOVE'S TRIUMPH by Rohn Federbush

Love's Triumph

by Rohn Federbush
Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Genre: Historical Inspirational Romance
Release Date: April 4, 2014
Length: 192 Pages

Abigail Breckenridge is studying to become Ann Arbor’s second female attorney, but a scandal interrupts her studies and sends her off to Europe to avoid the town gossips.

Charles Van Aker, a 6′ 5″ poet, is the oldest of eight and at the age of 18 helps run his father’s furniture company. Charles and Abigail have been friends since grade school, so when the scandal surrounding Abigail violently erupts, Charles and his large family of brothers and sisters stand by Abigail.

Through scandal, distance and lost faith, the love between Abigail and Charles grows steadily, but can it survive the tragedies that a typhoid epidemic buries them under?

The Book Excerpt

Excerpt 1

Ann Arbor, Michigan, June 1879

Humidity from a threatening storm wilted the starched-lace on the pleated front of Abigail’s engagement gown. At the head of the table, Grandpa drained his water glass and then dabbed at his substantial white moustache with his napkin. Hoping for twilight’s first shift of air, Abigail directed the butler, “Isaac, the windows.”

Isaac followed the Breckenridge house rules and pulled the dark green shades below the table top’s level, in order not to let breezes snuff out the candles. Behind the blinds and white filigree curtains, fly-paper curls ambushed insects drawn to the savory aroma of roast duck. Cooler air reached Abigail’s ankles, but harsh barking from the neighbor’s collie only added to the jangled state of Abigail’s nerves as did Grandpa’s continuing challenges to her darkly, handsome fiancé, George Lott.

Grandpa’s subject was George’s finances. “You think you can keep this girl in fancy dresses?”

George stiffened in the straight-backed, dining-room chair. “All she will ever ask of me.”

On her left, Charles Van Aker, her blond, curly-headed friend since grade school, smiled and then attempted to lighten the mood. “You could terrorize our Abigail, so she’ll never open her mouth.” No one cracked a smile, but Charles plowed forward. “Or, keep her in the house so no one will notice she’s out of fashion, no longer in harmony with society.”

George didn’t raise his eyes from his plate. Abigail scowled a warning at her grandfather, but he refused to look her way. Finally, Grandpa realized the ill-advised line of questioning. He frowned and then smiled at Abigail, his faded blue eyes twinkling with mischief. “Did I tell you, Abigail, they found Confederate gold out at the Husted’s?”

Abigail relaxed with the change of subject. Under cover of the tablecloth, she raised her skirt above her knees to take full advantage of the cooling breeze. She planned to share this secret of staying serene with Dolly Colt at the next opportunity. Where was her beautiful, redheaded friend? Dolly’s empty chair across from Charles reminded Abigail of their Jewish neighbor’s Seder celebration, where an extra place was set for an absent, invited guest. The prophet, Elijah, was welcome to occupy the Breckenridge chair any time, but she expected Dolly Colt.

Lightning struck nearby, shaking the house and making the candles flicker. The collie outside hushed.

Then Abigail screamed jumping up to escape whatever had grabbed her knees.

About Rohn Federbush

Website | Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Google+ | Pinterest | Goodreads | Amazon Author Page

Rohn Federbush retired as an administrator from the University of Michigan in 1999. She received a Masters of Arts in Creative Writing in 1995 from Eastern Michigan University. Frederick Busch of Colgate granted a 1997 summer stipend for her ghost-story collection. Michael Joyce of Vassar encouraged earlier writing at Jackson Community College, Jackson, Michigan in 1981.

​Rohn has completed fourteen novels, with an additional mystery nearly finished, 120 short stories and 150 poems to date.

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Veterans Day

On the 11^th hour on 11-11-18, World War I came to an end. It seems like I always knew that. Probably because one of my brothers was born on November 11^th and my parents told us about the significance of that date.

Originally, the day was known as Armistice Day, honoring those who served in WWI—the war to end all wars. It evolved into Veterans Day in 1954, honoring all who served and are serving in the U.S. Armed Forces.

Like many holidays, this isn’t just a day when federal offices are closed, when we receive no mail, when some students have the day off. It’s not just another excuse for sales.

We put out our flags that says to our neighbors “Thank you, Veterans, for your sacrifices, for protecting us.”

#SFRBrigade Showcase: The Protector

The SFR Brigade Showcase is the chance for Science Fiction Romance authors to showcase excerpts from their latest releases, snippets from a work-in-progress, a new cover for their book or just have fun with something silly, like a character interview! Be sure to check out all the great posts this month.

For my showcase, I’m sharing an excerpt from the third book in my Outer Rim series, The Protector. It’s a standalone book, which means you don’t have to read the previous two to enjoy. But I hope you will.

Blurb:

After tavern owner Rissa Dix rescues two girls from a slave ship, she must rally the townsfolk to prevent traffickers from raiding the frontier colony. She’s met with apathy and disbelief. Because she lost her own baby to traffickers, she’s determined that no other mother will suffer the same heartache. Industrialist heir Dillan Rusteran aids her in rescuing more children. Little do they know they’re about to tangle with a trafficking ring that puts Rissa in danger. Dillan’s loved her for years despite her claim she’s too old for him. As they fight the traffickers, will she finally see him in a new light?

Excerpt:

When she heard the rustle, Rissa stopped in the middle of the sanitary. “Whoever you are, come out. Right now.”

Another rustle then the sound of feet lightly hitting the floor. The lock slid open then slowly the door moved.

“Please,” a soft voice whispered. “Don’t hurt us.”

That sounded like a young girl.

“Come out where I can see you.” Rissa, too, whispered.

A tall, dark-haired teen stepped out, followed by a smaller girl with light brown hair. They both looked terrified. Their hair was matted and dirt smudged their faces. Their clothes were filthy. The smells emanating from them contributed to the general san-fac odors. Rissa did her best not to react.

Holding the other girl behind her, the tall one stepped forward, jutting out her chin. “We are not going back.”

“O-kay. Back where?”

“You can’t make us. We’ll escape again.”

Rissa had to admire her bravado. “You escaped? From where?”

“Did they send you in here to get us?”

Since the taller one seemed to be the spokesperson, Rissa kept her eyes on her. Something about her was compelling. Rissa could be looking at herself at the same age. Then it hit her hard, like a blow to the stomach. That was what Miri would have looked like at that age. Same strong Traishan features—olive skin, dark hair and eyes. Same strong will.

Rissa took a deep breath to steady herself before locking the outer door. “Nobody sent me. You asked for help. What can I do?”

“Get us out of here before they discover we’re gone.” Despite the strength in the tall girl’s voice, she worked hard to keep her chin from wobbling.

“Who?” Rissa was afraid she knew.

“Those men. The Chellians. We can’t go back. We won’t.”

By the Matriarch, traffickers.

Her lungs seized, her heart hurt so badly Rissa clutched her chest. Be strong, she told herself. Pull yourself together. No traffickers had ever come to Astron Colony before. Or even to Galeriana. She had to help the girls get away.

She glanced at the window on the far wall.

“We couldn’t open it,” the smaller girl sobbed. “We were trying when you came in. We thought you were them.”

Since Rissa was taller, she could easily reach the window. With a shove, she got it open. “Come.” She motioned to the tall girl. “You first. You can catch your friend. She’s too small to catch you.”

She cupped her hands for the girl’s foot. “Hide outside. I’ll come around and take you somewhere safe.” At the girls’ wary looks, she added, “I promise. Now go before someone comes looking for us.”

Rissa boosted her up to the open window. The tall girl hoisted herself through, disappeared for a moment then stuck her head inside.

“The ground is higher out here. Come, Anaris.” She held out her arms.

The small girl, Anaris, gave Rissa a panicked look. “You’ll come for us?”

The door rattled. “Hey,” a male yelled. “Open up.”

Anaris gave her a panicked look.

“Gimme a min,” Rissa yelled back.

“I promise to come for you,” Rissa whispered then gave her a boost. Like the tall girl, Anaris disappeared through the window.

As Rissa reached to close it, the tall girl was there about to do the same. “Thank you.” She shut the window and ducked out of sight.

Hoping they would wait for her, Rissa walked out of the san-fac. A mech glared at her. “Whadda mean by locking the door?”

“Didn’t want you walking in on me.” She glanced over at a commotion near the freighter where she’d delivered the supplies. “What’s going?”

The pilot was yelling and his two crewmen were darting between ships, searching.

“Damn offworlder.” The mech brushed past her into the san-fac.

When the pilot saw her, he yelled, “What did you do with them?”

Rissa looked around to see who he was shouting at.

“You there.” He stormed up to her. “Where are those two girls?”

She affected a confused expression. “What girls?”

“My cargo, I mean passengers. Damn you to Lexol’s Fire. How did you get them out?”

The pilot’s slip confirmed what Rissa feared. The girls she helped escape had been cargo. The pilot and crew were slavers, bastards who trafficked in children. A primal urge swept through her. Kill them. Kill them now.

The Protector is available at: Amazon ~ Kobo ~ Smashwords ~ B&N ~ iTunes

Stop by the Showcase page to visit all the other Showcase authors! You’re sure to find some interesting reads.

#IWSG: What Keeps Me Going

The first Wednesday of the month comes sooner and sooner. Once again it's time for the Insecure Writers Support Group, whose mission is to share and encourage. Writers can express doubts and concerns without fear of appearing foolish or weak. Those who have been through the fire can offer assistance and guidance. It’s a safe haven for insecure writers of all kinds! IWSG is the brainchild of Ninja Captain Alex J. Cavanaugh Thanks, Alex, for starting this group and keeping it going. And thanks to this month's awesome hosts: Stephen Tremp, Karen Walker, Denise Covey, and Tyrean Martinson!

Since many writers are participating in NaNoWriMo, I'll make this month's post short. Yesterday during a visit here, Nancy Gideon--friend, mentor, butt-kicker when I'm down, and #91 on the IWSG list--said about her career: 

So far, it’s been a winding road with sharp curves put together by smooth patches. A wild ride I’ve never regretted taking.

I could say the same about my career.  Last month, I compared it to a roller coaster ride. It's easy to keep going when times are good. But how do you weather those sharp curves that life throws at you? Nancy has some advice on that, too.

 Persevere, adapt, overcome.  It should be a tattoo.

I couldn't say it better.

Hope to see you next month.

Click here to find others on the Insecure Writers Support Group Blog Hop. Or go to IWSG on Facebook to see who’s blogging today.

A Visit from Nancy Gideon

I'm happy to welcome back my friend Nancy Gideon who's been busy, busy, busy this year, re-releasing my favorite vampire, shifter, and just plain romance books. I thought it was high time to pin her down for an interview so here goes.

Write your bio as if it were a tweet (140 characters or less).

            Nancy Gideon-Romance by any other name. Historical, series contemporary suspense, paranormal with a horror chaser! Dark heroes, sleepless nights!

Very good, especially the last sentence. What 3 authors who inspire you? Why?

            Dean Koontz, Norah Roberts and Cassandra Clare.  Awesome at their craft. They always leave me wanting more!  And soon!

What 3 things have you learned that makes you a better writer?

            Persevere, adapt, overcome.  It should be a tattoo.

That's for sure. What was a turning point in your writing career?

            So far, it’s been a winding road with sharp curves put together by smooth patches. A wild ride I’ve never regretted taking.

How do you get to know your characters?

            I sleep with them first.  Literally.  I mull over scenes and conversations and plot points before drifting off at night until I’m comfortable in their skin. That doesn’t sound perverted or serial killerish, does it?

No, because I do the same. Never thought of it as "sleeping with them" though. LOL

Tell us about your two series—By Moonlight and Touched by Midnight. How did you come up with the series’ names?

            “By Moonlight” is a dark paranormal shape-shifter series, now numbering 10 books with the release of UNLEASHED BY SHADOWS. The series follows Max Savoie, leader of an outcast clan in New Orleans, and his unlikely love affair with NOPD detective Charlotte Caissie in the “Moonlight” books and expanded stories regarding strong secondary characters in the “Shadows” books.  All can be read alone, but once you start, you’ll go through them like candy. Sweet, sinful, addictive candy. UNLEASHED BY SHADOWS, the latest book, concerns the new king in a rival clan who endangers his life in an underground Shifter fight club in New Orleans in order to pay a debt that darkens his soul and his queen who is forced to shed her innocence in order to protect him.

            “Touched by Midnight” is a vampire romance series that begins in Regency London and follow a cursed family as they elude their enemies and search for a cure through the centuries. Currently, the entire nine book series is being rereleased with all new covers, a book a month, by ImaJinn Books. Book four MIDNIGHT ENCHANTMENT should be rising up at any time.

            Titles? Moonlight/Midnight. Shape-shifters/vampire.  Nuff said.

What are you working on now?

            After falling hard for the Terriot princes in UNLEASHED BY SHADOWS, I’m giving them their own novellas in a “House of Terriot Foursome.”  Now, which one to start with?

Now share with us your latest.

 

UNLEASHED BY SHADOWS

How to protect a prince turned king made pawn?

Burdened by the weight of his secrets and his father’s sins, the need for redemption pulls Cale Terriot from his duty to his clan and the arms of his new mate into deadly intrigues in a rival territory.  His dangerous masquerade in a high-stakes Shifter fight club is about to be exposed to those who would show no mercy – if he can survive in the ring.

Can her love tear him from an unbreakable vow that can only end in death?

Fearing she’s about to lose her soulmate to the darkness he carries inside, Kendra Terriot, newly made queen in the Shape-shifter House of Terriot, must provide him with an heir in order to save his life . . . and his soul.  But first she must risk all to coax him back from the edge of violence inherited with his crown.

     “Every delicious word Nancy Gideon puts on the page exhilarates with a sensuous ferocity.   Hopelessly addicted.” 

—Darynda Jones,

NY Times Bestselling Author 

Diane here:  I totally agree with Darynda. Here's an excerpt.

“You’re in no position to make threats.”

     Cale leaned in, not a muscle moving in his face as he vowed through clenched teeth, “You don’t know that. You don’t know me, who I am, what I’ve done, what I’m capable of. I am not weak. I am not desperate or confused. I became king in the House of Terriot on the bones of many, and I am nobody you want to mess with. You have my queen and my sister, and if they are more than mildly inconvenienced before they’re returned to me, you will die the second I learn of it. A Terriot kneels to no one.”

UNLEASHED BY SHADOWS is available at:

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Unleashed-Shadows-By-Moonlight-Book-ebook/dp/B016FUGSRM/ref=pd_rhf_gw_p_img_2?ie=UTF8&refRID=1JD26KY1H1V6YHKTK2J6

B&N:  http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/unleashed-by-shadows-nancy-gideon/1122839808?ean=2940151190565

Kobo:  https://store.kobobooks.com/en-us/ebook/unleashed-by-shadows

All Romance Ebooks: https://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-unleashedbyshadows-1911330-143.html

Nancy Gideon is the author of over 58 novels ranging from Regencies, historicals and contemporary suspense to dark paranormal romance, with a couple of horror screenplays thrown into the mix.  When not at the keyboard or working full time as a legal assistant in Southwest Michigan, she can be found feeding her addictions for Netflix and all things fur, feather and fin, enjoying Grammy time (usually watching The Avengers), and meeting new friends and readers through her GoodReads “Nancy Gideon by Moonlight” group. Her books can also be found under the pen names Dana Ransom, Rosalyn West and Lauren Giddings.

Website:  http://nancygideon.com

Blog: http://nancygideon.blogspot.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/#!/NancyGideonAuthor

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/NancyGideon

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/282919.Nancy_Gideon