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Monday, June 17, 2019

Two Historical Romances, Each With a Mystery to Solve! Welcome, Author Linda Weaver Clarke!

Welcome, Author Linda Weaver Clarke! 

A Willow Valley Historical Romance

Angel’s Serenade is a Historical Romance with a mystery to solve. This story is set in 1836 in the United States. You will learn about the infamous River Pirates, the remedies for illnesses of that time period, the effects that music has on a person, and you will fall in love all over again.

Emmeline Scott is raising her sister’s two children and is surprised when she finds out the new doctor in town is helping her nephew adapt to his surroundings. As Emmeline gets to know the charming doctor, they become intrigued by her neighbor’s mysterious behavior. Will they discover his secret? And who is the leader of the River Pirates, who is causing so much havoc?

“This book, combining children, doctors and music with a little bit of a mysterious pirate gang, is a lovely way to relax and enjoy positivity! Ms. Clarke has a gift for writing homey dialogue, and a deep understanding of children’s needs and feelings – all combined into a developing love story in the not-so-long-ago past. All of this results in an enjoyable read.” –Author Sherrill Cannon

When Emmeline is given the responsibility of raising her sister’s children, she finds out that it is not as easy as she thought. The children have a difficult time adapting to their new surroundings. Would giving them an education and all her love be enough? After her nephew meets the good doctor, Emmeline wonders why Sam is so drawn to him? When Doctor Lucas Golden finds out that he’s being picked on at school, he wants to help young Sam but his advice is unusual and Emmeline is not happy about his interference.

“Clarke has created a sweet romance that will warm the heart, and it’s wrapped up in fascinating yesteryear details of courting, medical practice and river pirates. I highly recommend the book to those who enjoy sweet romance with a bit of mystery.” –Author Gail Pallotta

Emmeline Scott is an accomplished pianist and teaches piano to young students. Every day at five o’clock, after her last student is gone, she sits down at the piano and plays her favorite pieces. Unbeknown to Emmeline, the new doctor across the street sits outside on his porch and listens to her play. Lucas closes his practice at 5:00 and looks forward to being serenaded. It relaxes him after a long day at work. They haven’t been introduced, but he has dubbed her “Angel Lady” because of her music.

How about the mystery surrounding this story? Emmeline is worried about her neighbor. Why is Mr. Miller acting suspicious and meeting with disagreeable men in private? Is her neighbor harboring a secret, which may prevent him from winning the election? Is it possible that Emmeline can help or is it best to not get involved?


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The first book in the Willow Valley Historical Romances is One Last Dance. In this story, Felicity Brooks is an artist but her career is cut short when her father passes away. When Felicity meets their new neighbor, a fine-looking bachelor, she soon discovers that he is hiding his true identity. Nicholas Adams is on a quest. But that is not all. When she finds out that someone is after a valuable heirloom…a precious treasure that her father had discovered in his attic, her life takes a new turn.

“One Last Dance is a historical romance with a mystery to add to the tale. Felicity has always been a strong and independent woman. Amongst mystery, loss, paintings, and a career, she is going to have to decide if love has a place in her heart.” --Author Anna Del C Dye

Linda’s Website: www.lindaweaverclarke.com



Here is a Video link for One Last Dance:


                                                        About Linda Weaver Clarke


Linda Weaver Clarke was raised among the Rocky Mountains of southern Idaho and now lives among the red hills of southern Utah. She is the author of Historical Romance, Mystery Suspense, Cozy Mysteries, Swashbuckling/Adventure Romance, a Children’s Book, and Nonfiction. Linda teaches a class about writing your family history that is free to the public at the Family Search Center in St. George, Utah. She is also a missionary at the Family Search Center where she helps people find their ancestors so they can learn about their heritage. To learn more, visit www.lindaweaverclarke.com.

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Linda has graciously offered to give away both books to the person who wins the drawing at the end of her visit. So be sure and leave a comment to be eligible! Thank you, Linda!

Monday, March 11, 2019

Welcome, Author Linda Weaver Clarke! And a Giveaway!




Linda Weaver Clarke is not only a fantastic author and friend, she is a true keeper of historical facts and a preserver of the authenticity of yesteryear. In One Last Dance, she demonstrates her outstanding writing skills in writing clean and sweet romances, sweeping the reader away to another place and time in history.

GIVEAWAY!! Linda is so generous, too. She has offered an ebook copy to readers who answer the question: "Why do you enjoy reading clean historical romances?" Leave your reply and make sure you don't miss out on this great offer from a wonderful writer!


The Inspiring Story Behind 'One Last Dance'

Often times we hear about authors who write a story based upon a dream they had, but that never happened to me until now. One night I had a dream that was unforgettable. It had been a year since I had seen my father, and I never had a chance to say good-bye before he passed away at the age of 91. But I finally had that chance. In my dream, I was at a ball. Turning to my mother, I told her that I wanted to go home. “But I would like to have one last dance with Dad first,” I said.

When I turned around, I saw my father standing before me, looking handsome and youthful. When he slipped his coat off, I noticed he was wearing a suit. Looking up at him, I asked, “Dad? Could I have this one last dance before you go?”

He nodded and placed his hand around my waist, holding out his other hand for me to take. I felt the softness of his palm in mine and it felt so real. As we danced the waltz, I didn’t notice anyone else on the dance floor. It was just me and my father. When I leaned my head on his shoulder, it felt grand. As the dance came to an end, I looked up into his eyes and said, “Thanks, Dad, for one last dance.”

After waking up, it took me a while to realize that it had been a dream. It felt so real. After a few seconds, it dawned on me that I had danced with my father because I needed to say good-bye.

So this story begins with One Last Dance. Set in 1835, Felicity Brooks is a talented artist but her career is cut short when her father passes away. Realizing the importance of family, she travels home to care for her mother. When Felicity meets their charming new neighbor, a fine-looking bachelor, she soon discovers that he is hiding his true identity. Nicholas Adams is on a quest. But that is not all. Will one last dance heal her broken heart?

The Boston Waltz has an intriguing past. It received much criticism. After years of dancing at arm’s length, it was not readily accepted. To embrace one’s partner was unheard of and drew much criticism, especially among the pastors. In 1834, Lorenzo Papatino introduced this American Waltz, which was referred to as the Boston Waltz. It was much slower than the original waltzes in Germany and France. The waltz became popular among the country folk, but the upper class didn’t want to overstep the bounds of propriety. After a while, the waltz was gradually accepted.

“One Last Dance is a historical romance with a mystery to add to the tale. Felicity has always been a strong and independent woman. Amongst mystery, loss, paintings, and a career, she is going to have to decide if love has a place in her heart.” --Author Anna Del C Dye

When Felicity finds out that someone is trying to steal a valuable treasure that her father discovered, the adventure begins. With the help of her neighbor, Nicholas Adams, they search for evidence. Who is breaking into her home? What are they after? While Nicholas and Felicity search for clues, they attend a county fair, enter a horse race, and toss a piece of cow dung in a contest.







“One thing that always keeps me reading this author’s books is her characters. They are engaging, funny and passionate. One Last Dance kept me guessing until the end and left me wanting to read this book all over again. If you like Historical Romance with a mysterious touch and well-developed characters, this book is a must-read.” --Author Katrina Hart

In One Last Dance, Felicity has the opportunity of dancing with her father in a dream. Some time later, she gets the opportunity of dancing the Boston Waltz with Nicholas Adams. At first, she hesitates because it hasn’t been completely accepted in society. Here is an excerpt:

“The Boston Waltz?” Nicholas winked at her. “How about it? It’s become quite popular lately.”

Felicity loved the waltz so much, that she was even dreaming about it. Ever since the Boston Waltz was introduced, the dance steps intrigued Felicity and she enjoyed the rhythm of the new dance. Looking around, Felicity noticed that everyone was staring at them. What was she to do? Many felt it wasn’t proper behavior. But apparently Nicholas didn’t care for convention. What would her aunt think if she chose to dance the waltz?

“Come on,” coaxed Nicholas. “Let’s show them how it’s done.” With his hand firmly around her waist, he extended the other toward her. “Take it. It’ll be fun.”

When she saw Louise frowning with both hands on her hips, Felicity took a deep breath and placed her hand in his. Then she placed the other on his shoulder. “I’m ready. Let’s do it.”

Within seconds, she was gently whirling around the room. Nicholas knew his steps very well and she had no problem following him. When he smiled at her, an inner joy crept through her. She was really enjoying herself. Suddenly, everyone and everything around her seemed to disappear. It was just the two of them and she felt as if she were floating about the room. When Felicity felt his breath upon her cheek, she looked up and noticed that he was watching her. She could feel his hand gently squeezing hers, giving her the message that he was enjoying himself. The touch of his hand upon her waist seemed to draw her near. The catchy rhythm, along with the close physical contact, made the dance quite desirable. He was having a wonderful time and so was she.

As the waltz came to a close, he looked into her eyes and said, “Wasn’t that fun? We should do it again sometime.”

One Last Dance is a Historical Romance with a mystery to be solved. You will learn the art of watercolor, dance the Boston Waltz, and watch romance blossom before your eyes.

Here is a Book Trailer that sets the mood of this story.

About Author: Linda Weaver Clarke was raised among the Rocky Mountains of southern Idaho and now lives among the red hills of southern Utah. Linda is the author of 24 books. She has written in several different genres, which include: historical romances, romantic cozy mysteries, a mystery suspense series, children’s book, and non-fiction. All her books are family friendly.

Linda’s Website: www.lindaweaverclarke.com



Tuesday, October 30, 2018

Welcome, Author Linda Weaver Clarke!





A Historical Mystery Romance: One Last Dance

One Last Dance: Felicity Brooks is a talented artist but her career is cut short when her father passes away. Realizing the importance of family, she travels home to care for her mother. When Felicity meets their new neighbor, a fine-looking bachelor, she soon discovers that he is hiding his true identity. Nicholas Adams is on a quest. But that is not all. When she finds out that someone is after a valuable heirloom…a precious treasure that her father discovered in his attic, her life takes a new turn. This Historical Romance is set in 1835.

Awesome Reviews:

“One thing that always keeps me reading this author’s books is her characters; they are engaging, funny and passionate. I especially liked Mr. Adams’ character as he was both witty and charming with an air of mystery about him. I was impressed by Felicity’s character. She was a strong woman who had seen some of the world, only to end up back home where everything feels different. I liked the quirky bond between Mr. Adams and Felicity. He has her pegged from the start and from the moment they meet you can tell at some point sparks will fly, and they will challenge each other’s perspectives on the problem at hand, which made this book rather gripping. One Last Dance kept me guessing until the end and left me wanting to read this book all over again. If you like Historical Romance with a mysterious touch and well-developed characters, this book is a must-read.” --Author Katrina Hart

“One Last Dance is a historical romance with a mystery to add to the tale. Felicity has always been a strong and independent woman. Amongst mystery, loss, paintings, and a career, she is going to have to decide if love has a place in her heart.” --Author Anna Del C Dye



Linda Weaver Clarke’s links:
Linda’s Website: www.lindaweaverclarke.com

About Author: Linda Weaver Clarke was raised among the Rocky Mountains of southern Idaho and now lives among the red hills of southern Utah. Linda is the author of 24 books. She has written in several different genres, which include: historical romances, romantic cozy mysteries, a mystery suspense series, children’s book, and non-fiction. All her books are family friendly. To learn more, visit www.lindaweaverclarke.com.

Saturday, October 13, 2018

Welcome, Author Gail Pallotta with a New Release: "Hair Calamities and Hot Cash"! Plus a Giveaway!

https://www.facebook.com/AuthorsandMore








Author Gail Pallotta grew up at the foothills of the North Carolina Mountains.
Gail will give away a Kindle copy of "Barely Above Water", and "Hair Calamities and Hot Cash" is on pre-order for .99 cents (the link is below). 



Welcome to my blog, Gail. What is your newest book about?

A New York stockbroker, Philip, crashes his rental car into Eve Castleberry’s beauty shop in a mountain town in North Carolina. On the same day the young widow’s defective hair products cause wild hairdos. Philip’s attracted to the distraught top-notch hairstylist and asks her out. 

She starts dating him, but stops because she falls too hard for a wayfarer who’ll leave and break her heart. When there’s another catastrophe in the shop, Philip comes to Eve’s rescue and convinces her to go out as friends. Later he solicits her help to find the thieves who stole his client’s cash. 

Then they trail two of the FBI’s most-wanted criminals. Romance blossoms amid danger, suspense and Eve’s hair-brained plan to get back the money.


Where did you get your inspiration for this novel?

My mother’s beauty shop in a small town at the foothills of the North Carolina Mountains inspired it. Her shop echoed the warm, friendly atmosphere of the community. Clients discussed what to do about world affairs and everything in between, including family relations, births, deaths and weddings. They planned showers, graduation parties and get-togethers for new neighbors while my mother shampooed and rolled hair. They had close friends, acquaintances, people they tolerated and those they kept at a distance. As in most areas where everyone knows everyone else, they gossiped and could be nosey. 
However, when someone grieved for a loved one, suffered from an illness or any other crisis, prayers went up and casseroles went out no matter whether the person was a best friend or someone held at a distance. They all were God’s children.



What kind of research did you do for this book?
Techniques and supplies for beauty shops have changed over the years, so that required research. However, the ambiance of a beauty shop remains pretty much the same. As far as the setting, I borrowed from the atmosphere of the town where I grew up, but set the book at a higher elevation to allow for breathtaking views.


What intrigues you most about writing these stories?
Many things about writing interests me. However, if I’m selecting one, I’ll say the characters. It’s fun to see how they change from the beginning of the story to the end and to find out what predicaments they’ll get themselves into.


Tell us a bit about your other books.



I wrote "Barely Above Water" to give people a better understanding of Chronic Lyme Disease. At the same time, I wanted the book to be upbeat, so I added a romance and a fun, kids’ swim team. It is a Reader’s Favorite 2017 Book Award winner. In the book an illness comes out of nowhere and strikes Suzie Morris. Her boyfriend dumps her. She has no living family, and her physician can’t diagnose the malady. Suzie relies on her Christian faith as she faces the uncertainty of the disease, and turns to a renowned alternative doctor in Destin, Florida. She takes a job coaching a county-sponsored summer swim team. She’s determined to turn the fun, sometimes comical, rag-tag bunch into winners. Her handsome boss renews her belief in love, but learns of her mysterious affliction and abruptly cuts romantic ties. Later he has regrets, but can he overcome
his fear of losing a loved one and regain Suzie’s trust?


I have two novellas that are part of a series.





"Mountain of Love and Danger" is book five in the Fairwilde Fairy Tale series. It’s a retelling of Jack and the Beanstalk. Jack’s girlfriend has been kidnapped and taken to a mountain accessible only by helicopter. He must figure out how to scale the dangerous cliff, pry her from the giant- sized man holding her captive and bring her back to safety.





The other novella is "Breaking Barriers", book number eight in Prism Book Group’s "Love Is..."series. In this romantic suspense, the church is under attack. Ann Jones forms True Light Guardians to keep it safe from terrorists. She’s attacked, but rescued by James Crawford. The love inside him seeps into her heart, cold from her father’s abuse. However, she narrowly escapes more attempts on her life, and James can’t cope with losing her. He breaks up with her. Then an unlikely ally brings them together, but he puts all three of them in danger.





I also have a book of poems and short stories, "Messages: Poems and Short Stories to Live By". A nice gift book, it offers inspiration for our hectic times in straight-forward poems for happy and sad days. It features three stories. Getting the Goat peeks into the early 1900s when mountain
life was tough. In Stitches in Love Rose's deep love for her grandmother motivates others to share their gifts. Robert Horner is tempted in The Stranger, but does he succumb to the lure?


When you have time to read, who are some of your favorite authors?
That’s a difficult question because I love to read. I’m not a genre person. Even though I lean toward mystery and suspense, I find pleasure in any good story. I’ve read and enjoyed books by many authors. Some Christian fiction bestsellers I read include James Scott Bell, Nancy Mehl and Loree Lough.


Let’s get personal for a moment:
What is your favorite meal? Fresh fish, especially grouper, red snapper, halibut or cod.

What city would you love to visit and why? Honolulu, Hawaii. I love the sea and tropical places.



To learn more about Gail, visit her website at gailpallotta.com. You’ll find all her books and buy links at this site.




Readers, "Hair Calamities and Hot Cash" is on pre-order on Amazon for only .99 cents for a limited time.

Thank you for visiting, Gail. Best wishes on your new book and in your writing career. Please come back again soon and visit "the World", it is always a joy to chat with you!