Book Blast: M.K. McClintock's British Agent Series + Giveaway!!

Please follow M.K. McClintock’s Book Blast for her British Agent Series, from April 13th - April 17th, and enter to win a $25 Amazon Gift Card!!

 

Book One: Alaina Claiborne

 

 

Publication Date: January 8th, 2013
Trappers Peak Publishing
ISBN: 978-0615742502

Series: British Agent Novels, Book One
Genre: Historical Romantic Mystery

 

How far would you go to avenge your family and save the one you love?

 

In nineteenth-century England, Alaina Claiborne had a loving family, a cherished friend, and devoted servants. She spent her days riding across the grassy hills of the English countryside, joyful and at peace.

 

Then tragedy strikes and her world is forever changed. Searching for those responsible is her only focus . . . until she meets Tristan.

​

Tristan Sheffield, a man of many talents, searches out those who don’t want to be found. His past is filled with secrets and deeds he would rather leave deeply buried. However, when his life unexpectedly entwines with Alaina’s, he soon discovers they share more than a mutual desire to catch a murderer.

 

On their hunt for a man driven by greed, Tristan and Alaina find that love is the greatest weapon against evil, and they’ll stop at nothing to survive.

 

 

 

Praise for Alaina Claiborne

 

 

 

“This one is a winner. It broke my heart several times, the poignant moments she describes are so real.” -Deborah from The Bookish Dame Reviews

“Ms. McClintock succeeds in masterfully weaving both genres meticulously together until mystery lovers are sold on romance and romance lovers love the mystery!” -InD’Tale Magazine

“With a strong female lead and a nice mix of both action and romance, this novel tops my list.” -Judge, Writer’s Digest 21st Annual Self-Published Book Awards

 

Official Book Trailer

 

 

Buy the Book



Amazon US | Amazon UK | Nook | Kobo

 

 

Book Two: Blackwood Crossing

 

 

 

Publication Date: June 2, 2014
Trappers Peak Publishing
ISBN: 978-0991330607

 

Series: British Agent Novels, Book Two
Genre: Historical Romantic Mystery

 

 

If you had to make a choice, would it be loyalty or love?

 

Torn between loyalty to her family and refusal to marry a laird she despises, Rhona Davidson accepts a dangerous proposal from a man she knows only as Blackwood.

 

Leaving behind a life of leisure, Charles Blackwood bravely serves his country with honor and the skill of a trained British agent. When his newest case returns him to the wild Highlands of Scotland, he is faced with a choice between killing a man and saving the only woman he has ever loved.

 

Charles and Rhona join their lives, only to discover that their choices will result in bloodshed, unless they can uncover a truth long buried, deep in the Highland soil.

 

 

 

Praise for Blackwood Crossing

 

 

"Historical Romance readers will be delighted with the author’s style and veritable plot line in this clean romance. “Blackwood Crossing” is a wonderful book for the reader to begin their lifelong Historical Romance adventure or continue their HR journey! Bravo Ms. McClintock!” -InD’Tale Magazine, 4 1/2 stars and a Crowned Heart

“MK McClintock has spun an enchanting tale deeply entrenched in the lands of Scotland and England that will leave you riveted to your chair until you turn the last page.” -Donna McBroom-Theriot, mylifeonstoryatatime.com

“This is a wonderful book with suspense to keep me on the edge of my seat and surprises to keep me guessing . . . a feisty heroine and a strong, gentle hero . . . My poetic soul is fed by the beautiful descriptions of nature.” -Verna Mitchell, poet and author of Somewhere Beyond the Blue

Official Book Trailer

 

 

 

Buy the Book

 

 

Amazon US | Amazon UK | Nook | Kobo

 

 

 

Book Three: Clayton's Honor

 

 

 

Publication Date: April 29, 2015
Trappers Peak Publishing
ISBN: 978-0991330652

 

Series: British Agent Novels, Book Three
Genre: Historical Romantic Mystery

 

 

 

How far would you go to avenge your family and save the one you love?

 

In nineteenth-century England, Alaina Claiborne had a loving family, a cherished friend, and devoted servants. She spent her days riding across the grassy hills of the English countryside, joyful and at peace.

 

Then tragedy strikes and her world is forever changed. Searching for those responsible is her only focus . . . until she meets Tristan.

 

Tristan Sheffield, a man of many talents, searches out those who don’t want to be found. His past is filled with secrets and deeds he would rather leave deeply buried. However, when his life unexpectedly entwines with Alaina’s, he soon discovers they share more than a mutual desire to catch a murderer.

 

On their hunt for a man driven by greed, Tristan and Alaina find that love is the greatest weapon against evil, and they’ll stop at nothing to survive.

 

 

Official Book Trailer

 

 

 

Pre-Order the Book

 

 

Amazon (US) Kindle | Amazon (UK) Kindle

 

 

 

About the Author

 

MK McClintock spins tales of romance, mystery, and adventure inspired by the heather-covered hills of Scotland and the majestic mountains of home. With her heart deeply rooted in the past and her mind always on adventure, she lives and writes in Montana.

-2014 RONE Award-Nominee for “Alaina Claiborne”
-2014 Crowned Heart for Excellence from InD’Tale Magazine for “Blackwood Crossing” and “The Montana Gallagher Collection”
-2015 Crowned Heart Heart for Excellent from InD’Tale Magazine for “A Home for Christmas”

Learn more about MK by visiting her website or blog at Books and Benches. You can also find her on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Goodreads.

Sign up for M.K. McClintock’s Newsletter.

British Agent Novels Book Blast Schedule

 

 

Monday, April 13

Mina’s Bookshelf
Let Them Read Books
CelticLady’s Reviews

Tuesday, April 14

Mythical Books

Wednesday, April 15

Passages to the Past

Thursday, April 16

The Lit Bitch

Friday, April 17

Unshelfish
A Literary Vacation
Dreams Come True Through Reading

Giveaway!!!

 

To enter to win a $25 Amazon Gift Card please complete the giveaway form HERE.

 

 

Giveaway starts on April 13th at 12:01am EST and ends at 11:59pm EST on April 17th.

 Giveaway is open to residents in the US only and you must be 18 or older to enter.

 Winners have 48 hours to claim prize or new winner is chosen.

 Please email Amy @ hfvirtualbooktours@gmail.com with any questions.

 

 

Good luck!!

 

 

 

 

 

 





The Witch of Painted Sorrows Blog Tour: Review

Publication Date: March 17, 2015
Atria Books
Formats: Hardcover, Ebook
Pages: 384

Genre: Historical Mystery

LibaryReads March 2015 Pick

Indie Next Choice for April 2015

 

Synopsis

Possession. Power. Passion. International bestselling novelist M.J. Rose creates her most provocative and magical spellbinder yet in this erotic, gothic novel set against the lavish spectacle of 1890s Belle Époque Paris.

Sandrine Salome runs away to her grandmother’s Parisian mansion to escape her dangerous husband, but what she finds is even more menacing. The house, famous for its lavish art collection and elegant salons, is mysteriously closed up. Although her grandmother insists it’s dangerous for Sandrine to visit, she defies her and meets Julien Duplessi, a mesmerizing young architect. Together they explore the hidden night world of Paris, the forbidden occult underground and Sandrine’s deepest desires.

Among the bohemians and the demi-monde, Sandrine discovers her erotic nature as a lover and painter. Then darker influences threaten – her cold and cruel husband is tracking her down and something sinister is taking hold, changing Sandrine, altering her. She’s become possessed by La Lune: A witch, a legend and a sixteenth-century courtesan, who opens up her life to a darkness that may become a gift or a curse.

This is Sandrine’s “wild night of the soul,” her odyssey in the magnificent city of Paris, of art, love and witchery.

 

What Did I Think About the Story?

The Witch of Painted Sorrows, like all other books by M.J. Rose I have read, is an absolute treat for the senses!   The reader is completely submerged in what the characters experience, every touch, smell, sound and feeling so perfectly presented that you feel like you are right there, experiencing the same things. Which, given the sinister undertone lacing through this story, can be quite unnerving.

The revelations that our main character Sandrine comes to realize, in regards to her family's history and the secrets her ancestral home is hiding, are slow burning, as is the insidious presence that begins to take over her life, first by unleashing her inner passions and vibrant artistic talents and finally altering her personality in frightening ways. This slow release makes the whole mystical world swirling around Sandrine chilling as she isn't even quite sure what is happening to her. The reader just has to keep turning those pages to find out what might happen next.

My favorite aspect of the novel would have to be the time Sandrine spends painting and developing her craft.  It is rare that a novel takes you within the head of an artist so that you actually get the experience of seeing what that artist sees when looking at something that, for anyone who isn't an artist, would seem ordinary and watching it transform into something amazing. I wanted to spend more time within Sandrine's head as it was fascinating getting to see the workings of such a talented mind.

My only slight complaint (and given this wonderful story it is slight) is that I found a few of the secondary characters fell somewhat flat for me, especially Sandrine's husband. He is often referenced throughout the story as a horrid man who could pose a huge threat to Sandrine, but when we finally get to meet him it is barely a glimpse and that glimpse just didn't feel necessary. For me, he really only served to get Sandrine to Paris but added nothing else to the overall story.

The Witches of Painted Sorrows brings Belle Epoque Paris to life like only M.J. Rose can do. On top of the exciting and often frightening events discussed, the reader walks the halls of the Louvre, attends class at the Ecole des Beaux-Arts and takes a walk around the Eiffel Tower. I am so very excited to see where Ms. Rose takes this newest series!

What Do I Think About the Cover?

I absolutely adore it! It just might be my favorite cover of the year so far! The dark colors and mysterious woman superimposed over the city perfectly fits the dark mysteries going on within the pages.


My Rating: 4.0/5.0

 



Thank you to Amy at Historical Fiction Virtual Book Tours for providing me with a free copy of The Witch of Painted Sorrows in exchange for an honest review. Be sure to continue below for more information about the author, the book and the rest of the blog tour!

 

 



 

Praise For the Novels of M.J. Rose 

 

 

The Witch of Painted Sorrows

“Rose’s new series offers her specialty, a unique and captivating supernatural angle, set in an intriguing belle epoque Paris—a perfect match for the author’s lush descriptions, intricate plot and mesmerizing storytelling. A cliffhanger ending will leave readers hungry for the next volume. Sensual, evocative, mysterious and haunting.” (Kirkus Reviews)

“Mixes reality and illusion, darkness and light, mystery and romance into an adult fairy tale. [Rose] stirs her readers curiosities and imaginations, opening their eyes to the cultural, intellectual and artistic excitement that marked the Belle Epoque period. Unforgettable, full-bodied characters and richly detailed narrative result in an entrancing read that will be long savored. Library Journal (Starred Review)

“A haunting tale of possession.” (Publishers Weekly)

“Rose is an unusually skillful storyteller. Her polished prose and intricate plot will grip even the most skeptical reader. ” (The Washington Post)

 

 

The Collector of Dying Breaths

 

 

"Breathtaking…combines fascinating history, torrid romance and a compelling mystery into a marvelous package that will entice fans of Anne Rice and Diana Gabaldon.” (Associated Press)

“A page-turning, alluring concoction of fiction infused with fantastical yet actual history. Readers will be charmed by her well-drawn and memorable characters, and they will be mesmerized by her enchanting narrative, which takes them on a mystical and magical journey.” (Library Journal (starred))

“A terrific piece of entertainment.” (CT Post)

“Wondrously original… elegantly written. Rose manages to utterly suspend our disbelief in a book that leaves us, appropriately enough, breathless.” (Providence Journal)

“Mysterious, magical, and mythical…what a joy to read!” (Sara Gruen, New York Times bestselling author of Water for Elephants)


Seduction


“Atmospherically romantic and perfectly toned. Classy and elegant literary seduction of the highest measure. As wondrously crafted as it is original.” (Providence Journal)

“Readers will be enchanted by M.J. Rose’s supernaturally charged novel Seduction, inspired by Victor Hugo’s self-imposed exile on the British island of Jersey in the 1850s.” (USA Today)

“Has just about everything a thriller fan could wish for.” (Philadelphia Inquirer)

“Full of well-researched history, the paranormal, and modern intrigue, this atmospheric tale of suspense is fully engrossing to those willing to suspend their disbelief.” (Library Journal (starred review))


The Book of Lost Fragrances


“A compelling page turner…Once you catch a whiff, you will be enchanted.” (Associated Press)

“M.J. Rose is a bold, unflinching writer and her resolute honesty puts her in a class by herself.” (Laura Lippman)

“The Book of Lost Fragrances resonates with spirit, blending myth with reality, tragedy with triumph, pain with joy. You’ll find yourself questioning everything you believe–and wanting more.” (Steve Berry)

“Provocative…a sweeping sense of romance [and] history.” (Cleveland Plain-Dealer)

Buy the Book

Amazon
Barnes & Noble
iTunes
IndieBound

About the Author

 

 

M.J. Rose grew up in New York City mostly in the labyrinthine galleries of the Metropolitan Museum, the dark tunnels and lush gardens of Central Park and reading her mother’s favorite books before she was allowed.

She is the author of more than a dozen novels, the co-president and founding board member of
International Thriller Writers and the founder of the first marketing company for authors: AuthorBuzz.com. She lives in Greenwich, Connecticut. Visit her online at MJRose.com.

Connect with M.J. Rose on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Goodreads.

Sign up for M.J. Rose’s newsletter and get information about new releases, free book downloads, contests, excerpts and more.



You can check out the whole HF Virtual Book Tour for The Witch of Painted Sorrows HERE.

 







 



Spotlight on Scent of the Soul by Julie Doherty

Please join Julie Doherty as she tours the blogosphere with HF Virtual Book Tours for Scent of the Soul from March 23rd - April 17th!


Publication Date: February 11, 2015
Soul Mate Publishing
eBook; 288p

Genre: Historical Romance


In twelfth century Scotland, it took a half-Gael with a Viking name to restore the clans to their rightful lands. Once an exile, Somerled the Mighty now dominates the west. He’s making alliances, expanding his territory, and proposing marriage to the Manx princess.

It’s a bad time to fall for Breagha, a torc-wearing slave with a supernatural sense of smell.

Somerled resists the intense attraction to a woman who offers no political gain, and he won’t have a mistress making demands on him while he’s negotiating a marriage his people need. Besides, Breagha belongs to a rival king, one whose fresh alliance Somerled can’t afford to lose.

It’s when Breagha vanishes that Somerled realizes just how much he needs her. He abandons his marriage plans to search for her, unprepared for the evil lurking in the shadowy recesses of Ireland—a lustful demon who will stop at nothing to keep Breagha for himself.

Read An Excerpt

 

 

Buy the eBook

 

Amazon

 

 

About the Author

 

Something magical happened in the musty basement of Julie Doherty’s local courthouse. She went there intending to research her ancestry, not lose herself in a wealth of stories, but the ghosts of yesteryear drew her into the past and would not let her go. The trail left by her ancestors in those yellowing documents led her from rural Pennsylvania to the Celtic countries, where her love of all things Irish/Scottish blossomed into outright passion.

She became particularly interested in Somerled, self-styled “King of Argyll” and progenitor of the Lords of the Isles. In 1164, he led a fleet of 164 galleys up the River Clyde in an all-or-nothing attempt to overthrow the Scottish crown. What would lead a man of his advanced years to do such a
thing?


Of course, history records he did so because the king demanded forfeiture of his lands. But the writer in Julie wondered …what if he did it for the love of a woman?

Those early thoughts led to SCENT OF THE SOUL, Julie’s first novel, available now on Amazon.
Readers will notice a common theme throughout Julie’s books: star-crossed lovers. This is something she knows a bit about, since during one of her trips to Ireland, she fell in love with an Irishman. The ensuing immigration battle took four long years to win. With only fleeting visits, Skype chats, and emails to sustain her love, Julie poured her heartache into her writing, where it nourished the emotional depth of her characters.

Julie is a member of Pennwriters, Romance Writers of America, Central PA Romance Writers, The Longship Company, Perry County Council of the Arts, and Clan Donald USA. When not writing, she enjoys antiquing, shooting longbow, traveling, and cooking over an open fire at her cabin. She lives in Pennsylvania with her husband, who sounds a lot like her characters.

For more information please visit Julie Doherty’s Website and Blog. You can also follow her on Facebook and Twitter.

Watch the Book Trailer

 

 

 

 

Scent of the Soul Blog Tour Schedule

 

Monday, March 23

 

Review & Giveaway at Unshelfish
Spotlight at Literary Chanteuse

Tuesday, March 24

Review at The Mad Reviewer
Excerpt & Giveaway at Sexy Siren Book Blog
Spotlight at I Heart Reading

Wednesday, March 25

Spotlight at Genre Queen

Thursday, March 26

Interview at Mythical Books
Spotlight at CelticLady’s Reviews

Friday, March 27

Spotlight & Giveaway at So Many Precious Books, So Little Time

Monday, March 39

Spotlight & Giveaway at Cheryl’s Book Book

Thursday, April 2

Spotlight & Giveaway at Griperang’s Bookmarks

Sunday, April 5

Review at Carole’s Ramblings

Monday, April 6

Review at Book Nerd

Wednesday, April 8

Review at The Lit Bitch
Interview at Sizzling Hot Books
Spotlight at Layered Pages

Thursday, April 9

Spotlight at Deal Sharing Aunt

Friday, April 10

Spotlight at Romance Book Junkies

Wednesday, April 15

Review at With Her Nose Stuck in a Book
Spotlight at A Literary Vacation

Thursday, April 16

Review at Dreams Come True Through Reading

Friday, April 17

Review at The True Book Addict
Spotlight & Giveaway at Boom Baby Reviews

 

 

 

Interview with Danielle Bretancourt, Protagonist of Scent of Triumph + Giveaway!

I am beyond excited to have a fun and unique "interview" with Danielle Bretancourt, the protagonist of Jan Moran's Scent of Triumph: A Novel of Perfume and Passion! I absolutely LOVE getting into the head of the character and seeing what makes them tick. So, without further ado, please welcome Danielle Bretancourt to A Literary Vacation and don't forget to continue below for more information on Scent of Triumph, author Jan Moran, how you can enter to win a SIGNED copy of Scent of Triumph and the rest of the blog tour!

 

Danielle, what is one word that best describes you?

Just one? How about two or three? Creative, determined, and tenacious.

If you took a trip, where would you like to go?

Since I’m from Europe, I’d love to see more of the United States, my adopted country. I’d love to visit San Francisco and New York (I hear there are some excellent, authentic French restaurants there!), and ski the snowy mountains of Utah and Colorado. And I must visit the wineries of Napa Valley. Of course, I’ll always love France; it’s the heart of perfumery, which is my true passion.

How do you relax in your free time?

I love to garden…I love the aromas of fresh spring blossoms and sun-warmed herbs, even moist black dirt.

Do you play sports?

I love to dance! My mother took me to the ballet when I was a young girl in Paris, and I talked her into allowing me to take lessons. But I love all forms of dance—jazz, tango, and all the new dances in America.

What is your favorite saying or quote?

"Plus ca change, plus c'est la meme chose." It's a complicated French phrase, but it means that the more things change, the more they remain the same (literally), but it also means that even though we might change our lives, we often continue to struggle with the same problems. Real change requires a fundamental shift.

What’s the best advice you’d ever heard?

Winston Churchill once advised, “Never give up!”

 What songs do you have on your iPod?

What’s an iPod? Is it like a radio?

 If you won the lottery, what would you splurge on?

I’d buy all the original perfumes I could find.

Thank you Danielle!

 

 

Publication Date: March 31, 2015
St. Martin’s Griffin
Formats: eBook, Paperback
384 Pages

Genre: Historical Fiction/Romance

 

 

When French perfumer Danielle Bretancourt steps aboard a luxury ocean liner, leaving her son behind in Poland with his grandmother, she has no idea that her life is about to change forever. The year is 1939, and the declaration of war on the European continent soon threatens her beloved family, scattered across many countries. Traveling through London and Paris into occupied Poland, Danielle searches desperately for the remains of her family, relying on the strength and support of Jonathan Newell-Grey, a young captain. Finally, she is forced to gather the fragments of her impoverished family and flee to America. There she vows to begin life anew, in 1940s Los Angeles.

 

Through determination and talent, she rises high from meager jobs in her quest for success as a perfumer and fashion designer to Hollywood elite. Set between privileged lifestyles and gritty realities, Scent of Triumph is one woman’s story of courage, spirit, and resilience.

 

 

 

Praise for Scent of Triumph

 

 

“SCENT OF TRIUMPH [is a] World War II epic.” -Los Angeles Times

“Though romance figures importantly in [SCENT OF TRIUMPH], Danielle’s professional life is most appealing, profiting from perfume expert Moran’s (Fabulous Fragrances, 1994, etc.) authentic experience…The casual demeanor with which Danielle always notices scents in her environment helps establish her character and professional credibility in a charming way…Danielle makes for a strong, unusual heroine who doesn’t always make wise decisions, although her resilience, style and knowledge remain admirable…. [A] historical fiction carried by a complex, resourceful heroine with a nose for business.” -Kirkus Reviews

“Warm and well written, with characters who attract the reader’s sympathy and affection. A lovely story well-told, which will appeal to romantics, fashion and perfume devotees, and fans of historical fiction.” -Amy Edelman, founder of IndieReader.com

Buy the Book

Amazon
Apple iBookstore
Barnes & Noble
Books-a-Million
IndieBound
Kobo

About the Author

Jan Moran is a Rizzoli bestselling and award winning author. She writes historical women’s fiction for St. Martin’s Press, contemporary women’s fiction, and nonfiction books. Her stories are smart and stylish, and written with emotional depth. Jan often draws on her international travel and business experiences, infusing her books with realistic details. The Midwest Book Review and Kirkus have recommended her books, calling her heroines strong, complex, and resourceful.

Jan has been featured in numerous publications and on television and radio, including CNN, Women’s Wear Daily, Allure, InStyle, and O Magazine. As an editor and writer, she has covered
fragrance, beauty, and spa travel for a variety of publications such as Cosmopolitan, Elle, Costco Connection, and Porthole Cruise.

A perfume and beauty industry expert, she is the creator of Scentsa, a touch screen fragrance finder in Sephora stores.

From Jan: “I love smart and fierce female protagonists. I hope you enjoy these books, and if you’d like to Skype me into your book club meeting, simply send me a message!”

For more information and to sign up for Jan Moran’s newsletter visit her official website. Jan blogs at Jan Moran Writes. You can also find her on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Google+, Goodreads, and LinkedIn.

 

Special Offer!!!

Jan Moran is running a special incentive on her website for a free digital ebook of her new non-fiction book, Vintage Perfumes, to everyone who purchases Scent of Triumph from March 31st, 2015 to April 30th, 2015! All you have to do is email your receipt to Jan Moran at janmoranbooks@gmail.com, along with a photo of yourself with the Scent of Triumph book, eBook, or your tablet.

 

 

Scent of Triumph Blog Tour Schedule

 

Wednesday, April 1

Interview & Excerpt at Passages to the Past

Thursday, April 2

Review at A Chick Who Reads
Spotlight & Excerpt at Genre Queen

Friday, April 3

Review & Excerpt at With Her Nose Stuck in a Book
Interview at Let Them Read Books

Monday, April 6

Guest Post at The Maiden’s Court

Tuesday, April 7

Review at Flashlight Commentary
Spotlight at CelticLady’s Reviews

Wednesday, April 8

Excerpt at The Never-Ending Book

Thursday, April 9

Review at The Eclectic Reader

Tuesday, April 14

Interview at A Literary Vacation

Thursday, April 16

Guest Post at Book Nerd

Friday, April 17

Review at The Lit Bitch
Guest Post at Mina’s Bookshelf
Interview at Reading Lark

 

Giveaway!!

 

To enter to win a SIGNED copy of Scent of Triumph, please complete the giveaway form HERE.

 

Rules

 

Giveaway starts on April 1st at 12:01am EST and ends at 11:59pm EST on April 17th.
 

Giveaway is open to residents in the US only and you must be 18 or older to enter.
 

Winners will be chosen via GLEAM on April 18th and notified via email.
 

Winners have 48 hours to claim prize or new winner is chosen.
 

Please email Amy @ hfvirtualbooktours@gmail.com with any questions.

 

Good luck!!!

 

 

 

 

Spotlight on Immigrant Soldier by K. Lang-Slattery

Please join K. Lang-Slatter as she tours the blogosphere with HF Virtual Book Tours for Immigrant Soldier: The Story of a Ritchie Boy Blog Tour, from April 6th - 17th!

Publication Date: February 9, 2015
Pacific Bookworks
Formats: eBook & Paperback

Genre: Historical Fiction


Immigrant Soldier, The Story of a Ritchie Boy, based on the true experiences of a refugee from Nazi Germany, combines a coming-of-age story with an immigrant tale and a World War II adventure. On a cold November morning in 1938, Herman watches in horror as his cousin is arrested. As a Jew, he realizes it is past time to flee Germany, a decision that catapults him from one adventure to another, his life changed forever by the gathering storm of world events. Gradually, Herman evolves from a frustrated teenager, looking for a place to belong, into a confident US Army intelligence officer who struggles with hate and forgiveness.

Advance Praise

“In this debut historical novel, a young German Jew flees his homeland before World War II and is later drafted into the US Army, serving closely under the legendary Gen. George S. Patton. Lang-Slattery effectively mines family history to create a solid work of historical fiction from her uncle’s real-life derring-do. . . . In the sunny glamour of the book’s California passages, she effectively evokes the young immigrant’s overflowing hope. . . . Overall, her uncle’s fictionalized adventures never fail to interest, whether he’s slipping behind the lines for Patton or simply attempting to romance the local girls. An often engaging tale of one man’s involvement in the world’s most horrific war.” – Kirkus Reviews

“A captivating book, extremely well written. Thanks to the army’s Camp Ritchie Military Intelligence Training Center for molding soldiers like Herman Lang and to the author for sharing his story with us.” – Ralph M. Hockley, Colonel, US Army (Ret); Career Army Intelligence Officer, 1952-1980; and a Ritchie Boy

“K. Lang-Slattery has uncovered small but significant details that not only add to the fascination of her novel but also bring material before the public never hitherto disclosed. Beyond that, her brief character sketches bring us, in miniature, samples of the “Greatest Generation.” And her style keeps the reader glued to the page!” – Guy Stern, Distinguished Professor Emeritus; Director, International Institute of the Righteous, and Ritchie Boy

“Written by Herman’s niece, Immigrant Soldier, The Story of a Ritchie Boy, has an appealing personal touch. Interwoven through the story is a wealth of well-researched and often little-known information about World War II. Time reading this book is time well-spent, and anyone—from teens to adults, history buffs or not—will enjoy it.” – Marion Coste – Editor and award-winning children’s book author of Kolea.

Buy the Book

Amazon

About the Author

Kathryn Lang-Slattery, a published author of fiction and nonfiction for youth, became fascinated with her uncle’s World War II stories and began taping his conversations in 1996. Soon she knew she had
found a fascinating untold story of Jewish refugees who became silent heroes. More than a decade spent researching, interviewing Ritchie Boys, and turning the true story of her uncle into fiction became an odyssey of discovery that resulted in the novel, Immigrant Soldier, The Story of a Ritchie Boy.

For more information please visit at K. Lang-Slatter’s website and blog. You can also find her on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter.

Immigrant Soldier Blog Tour Schedule

Monday, April 6

Review at Flashlight Commentary
Spotlight at Unshelfish

Tuesday, April 7

Review at Book Nerd

Wednesday, April 8

Spotlight at A Bookish Girl

Thursday, April 9

Guest Post at Just One More Chapter

Friday, April 10

Spotlight at CelticLady’s Reviews

Sunday, April 12

Review at Carole’s Ramblings

Monday, April 13

Spotlight at A Literary Vacation

Tuesday, April 14

Guest Post at Books and Benches

Wednesday, April 15

Spotlight, Excerpt, & Giveaway at So Many Precious Books, So Little Time

Thursday, April 16

Review at Bookramblings

Friday, April 17

Spotlight & Giveaway at Passages to the Past

 



Guest Post by Susanna Calkins, Author of The Masque of a Murderer

Ever since I was working on my PhD in history, I was intrigued by 17^th century England, which is why I set my mysteries featuring Lucy Campion—a chambermaid turned printer’s apprentice--during this time period. Often considered a “world turned upside down,” England during this time was in enduring religious and political upheaval, civil strife and warfare, along with class and gender conflicts.  A strong legal tradition permeated English society, in both civic and ecclesiastic settings, as did a 'bottom-up' tradition of community monitoring and control.  But there was nothing like the police force that emerged in the eighteenth century, nor was the jury and trial system exactly the same.

Woodcut depicting executions at Newgate Prison



The 1660s represented an attempt to regain order, with the restoration of the Stuart line King Charles II (son of Bonny Prince Charles, beheaded at the order of Cromwell's Parliament). Yet, under Charles, theaters were reopened, Puritan stringency was cast aside, and a general frenzied air permeated the first few years of his reign.

Between 1664 and 1666, two great disasters befell England--London most catastrophically.  First, the plague struck heavily, killing thousands and thousands of people. Then, before anyone could even recover, the Great Fire of London swept through much of the city, destroying nearly 13000 homes and rendering thousands homeless. The struggle for order was formidable, and serves as the backdrop of my first novel, A Murder at Rosamund’s Gate.

Consequently, a remarkable social mobility occurred among the survivors, as servants and apprentices took over their master's homes and livelihoods.  While the fire courts sought to deal with these impostors and usurpers,  identity and property theft were widespread, all themes that feature prominently in From the Charred Remains and The Masque of a Murderer.   

 

 

 

About The Masque of a Murderer

 

 

 

Publication Date: April 14, 2015
Minotaur Books/St. Martins Press
Formats: Hardcover, eBook
Pages: 323

Series: Book Three, Lucy Campion Mysteries
Genre: Historical Mystery


In Susanna Calkins’ next richly drawn mystery set in 17th century England, Lucy Campion, formerly a ladies’ maid in the local magistrate’s household, has now found gainful employment as a printer’s apprentice. On a freezing winter afternoon in 1667, she accompanies the magistrate’s daughter, Sarah, to the home of a severely injured Quaker man to record his dying words, a common practice of the time. The man, having been trampled by a horse and cart the night before, only has a few hours left to live. Lucy scribbles down the Quaker man’s last utterances, but she’s unprepared for what he reveals to her—that someone deliberately pushed him into the path of the horse, because of a secret he had recently uncovered.

Fearful that Sarah might be traveling in the company of a murderer, Lucy feels compelled to seek the truth, with the help of the magistrate’s son, Adam, and the local constable. But delving into the dead man’s background might prove more dangerous than any of them had imagined.

In The Masque of a Murderer, Susanna Calkins has once again combined finely wrought characters, a richly detailed historical atmosphere, and a tightly-plotted mystery into a compelling read.

Lucy Campion Mystery Series Titles

 

 

Book One: A Murder at Rosamund’s Gate
Macavity Award Finalist Sue Feder Historical Mystery Award (2014)
Barnes & Noble Bookseller’s Selection (“Mystery Pick” and “Featured New Arrival”)
Chicago Book Review – Best Books of 2013



Book Two: From the Charred Remains (Paperback release on March 17, 2015)
Short-listed for the Bruce Alexander Historical Mystery Award (2015)




Book Three: The Masque of a Murderer (coming April 2015!)

Praise for the Lucy Campion Mystery Series

“…the high-quality writing augurs well for future outings.” -Publisher’s Weekly

“Calkins makes Lucy’s efforts to find the real killer entirely plausible, leading to a nail-biter climax with London in flames. This history-mystery delivers a strong heroine making her way through the social labyrinth of Restoration London.” -Booklist

“Calkins’ debut mystery places her unusual detective in a world rich in carefully researched historical detail.” -Kirkus

“A historical mystery with originality and great attention to detail. Readers are transported to 17th century England, a time when social classes were just beginning to change. The characters are multi-dimensional–including the smart, adventurous Lucy Campion–and the mystery will keep readers turning the pages, and they’ll eagerly await the next book in the series.” RT Book Reviews (4 Stars)

“…an intricate tale of fraud and blackmail, leavened by a touch of romance. Calkins, who holds a doctorate in British history, puts her knowledge to sparkling use in this intriguing mystery, which combines a gripping plot with rich historical detail and one of the most admirable protagonists in the genre.” -The Richmond Times-Dispatch

“Calkins is able to seamlessly weave this romance into the story without making it the main plot line, and keeping the mystery the main focus of the story….The puzzles, anagrams, and many secrets combine to make intertwining plot twists that keep the pages turning. FROM THE CHARRED REMAINS is an exciting, secret filled, historical mystery that will keep readers guessing until the very end.” –Fresh Fiction (Reviewer’s Pick)

“A good yarn and a fascinating look at life in England in a time when things began to change…social classes, positions, servants’ rights…all because of plague and fire.” -Book Babe Blog

“For me, this book was more than a mystery. It was an eye-opening look at what London was like in the mid-1660s, including the plague and fire that ravaged London, class struggle, the plight of women, and the laws of the time. The author’s engaging writing style made it easy to slip back into the past and experience these things with Lucy.” -Book of Secrets

“A Murder at Rosamund’s Gate is Susanna Calkins’ absorbing debut novel. Just a warning that time WILL easily slip away as you become engrossed in this historical fiction mystery.” -1776 Books: A Philadelphian’s Literary Journey

Pre-Order The Masque of a Murderer

Amazon
Barnes and Noble
Book Depository
iTunes

About the  Author

Born and raised in Philadelphia, Susanna Calkins lives in Highland Park, Illinois with her husband and two sons, where she is an educator at Northwestern

University. With a PhD in history, her historical mysteries feature Lucy Campion, a 17th century chambermaid-turned-printer’s apprentice. Her first novel, A Murder at Rosamund’s Gate, was a finalist for the Sue Feder Historical Mystery Award (Macavity). The second in this series, From the Charred Remains, is currently a finalist for the Bruce Alexander Historical Mystery Award. Her third, The Masque of a Murderer, will be released in April 2015.

For more information and to subscribe to Susanna Calkins’ newsletter please visit her website. You can also follow her blog, and connect with her on Facebook, Twitter, and Goodreads.


 

The Masque of a Murderer Blog Tour Schedule

 
Monday, March 16

Review at Bibliophilia, Please

Tuesday, March 17

Review at Flashlight Commentary
Guest Post at Bibliophilia, Please

Wednesday, March 18

Interview at Flashlight Commentary

Friday, March 20

Spotlight at Historical Readings & Reviews

Monday, March 23

Review & Interview at Oh, for the Hook of a Book!

Wednesday, March 25

Review & Interview at The Emerald City Book Review

Tuesday, March 31

Review at With Her Nose Stuck in a Book

Wednesday, April 1

Character Interview at Boom Baby Reviews

Thursday, April 2

Review at Just One More Chapter

Monday, April 6

Review at Ageless Pages Reviews

Tuesday, April 7

Spotlight at The Genre Queen

Thursday, April 9

Review at The Lit Bitch
Guest Post at A Literary Vacation

Friday, April 10

Review at Book Nerd

Monday, April 13

Review at CelticLady’s Reviews

Tuesday, April 14

Review at Book Babe

Thursday, April 16

Review at Jorie Loves a Story
Spotlight at Layered Pages

Friday, April 17

Spotlight & Giveaway at Passages to the Past

 

 

 

 



Spotlight on A Chance to Kill by Paul Letters

Please join author Paul Letters as he tours the blogosphere with HF Virtual Book Tours for A Chance Kill from April 6th - April 10th!


Publication Date: February 26, 2015
Silverwood Books
Formats: eBook, Paperback
Pages: 300

Genre: Historical Fiction


A Chance Kill is a wartime thriller where an old-fashioned love story forges through a conspiracy of authentic, action-filled adventures.

Based upon the author’s grandmother’s experience, seventeen-year-old Polish catholic Dyta Zając finds herself forced away from wartime Warsaw due to her family’s shadowy connections. Dyta’s time on the run sets her on a path towards confronting the ultimate Nazi.

Half a continent away, an RAF bomber crew embarks upon Britain’s little-known first offensive of the war. Courtship edges Dyta’s destiny closer to that of members of the RAF crew – and toward the Allies’ most brazen covert operation to strike at the Nazi elite.

But more dangerous than the enemy, however, is the assumption that your enemy’s enemy is your friend…

Buy the Book

Amazon US
Amazon UK
Barnes & Noble
Book Depository
Kobo

About the Author

Author Paul Letters deals with a physical disability (which is twisted and transposed to a character in A Chance Kill). It prompted Paul to change his life and give up full-time teaching to write. He studied history, education, international affairs and literary journalism at the Universities of Cardiff,

Oxford and Hong Kong.

Paul is from England and now lives in the jungled fringes of Hong Kong. He writes freelance journalism, most often for the South China Morning Post, and is currently working on a World War Two novel set in Hong Kong.

For more information please visit Paul Letters’ website. You can also find him on Facebook, Goodreads, and Twitter. Follow the WWII 75 Years On Twitter page for daily tweets on what happened in history 75 years ago.

A Chance Kill Blog Tour Schedule

Monday, April 6

Review at Flashlight Commentary

Tuesday, April 7

Review at Books and Benches
Spotlight at Beth’s Book Nook Blog

Wednesday, April 8

Review at Quirky Book Reviews
Review at Back Porchervations
Spotlight at A Literary Vacation
Spotlight at With Her Nose Stuck In A Book

Thursday, April 9

Review at History From A Woman’s Perspective
Spotlight at Boom Baby Reviews

Friday, April 10

Review at The Great Reads!
Interview at Back Porchervations
Guest Post at History From A Woman’s Perspective
Spotlight at CelticLady’s Reviews