Now Available: YESTERDAY'S TREASURES--Time-Travel Regency!

It’s time to discover... YESTERDAY’S TREASURES... the newest time-travel Regency by Susanne Marie Knight now available.

A Regency themed photo shoot, a magical wedding dress, and a mysterious “uncle” send Mattie Newcastle back to the past.

YESTERDAY’S TREASURES is now available on Amazon.com https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D8ZVT368

Coming soon to Smashwords

Universal Link: https://books2read.com/u/4jpey2

In Print: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D92BBZX4

A FAUX BRIDE

Mattie Newcastle agrees to pose as a bride in a photo shoot to advertise her Uncle Ward’s second-hand-shop, Yesterday’s Treasures. Everything for the shoot looks period-piece authentic, especially the mouthwateringly hunky groom dressed in a tailcoat, top hat, and a cravat. Imagine Mattie’s surprise when after she signs the chapel’s register book, she finds out that she’s actually married to an English marquess; she’s now in London; and the year is 1816. Her husband, George, declares she’s bought and paid for and insists on obtaining his conjugal rights. Sure, he’s as handsome as a dream, but she has no intention of becoming his “brood mare.” How did this impossible thing happen and how is she going to get back to the twenty-first century?

A REAL HUSBAND

The Marquess of Chesterton, George Dunning, has a gambling addiction. His latest debacle at cards has cost him 150,000 guineas payable to his arch nemesis... and, unless George marries immediately, his family’s ancestral diamond ring. He can handle the enormous debt, but the shame of the ring not staying within the family is too high a price to pay. He must enter the parson’s mousetrap... without delay. His man of business, Edward, arranges for an appropriate, amenable, eligible, biddable, and sight-unseen young woman to be George’s bride. The more George is around Matilda Newcastle, the more he is quite happy with the marriage, except... he soon realizes she has no intention of granting a husband’s privileges. How can he convince his new marchioness that she truly belongs to him?

PRAISE FOR YESTERDAY’S TREASURES:

* 5 Stars! Another exciting Regency Time-Travel Romance from popular author Susanne Marie Knight. Due to receive her masters from graduate school, Mattie Newcastle has a very bright future ahead of her. However, her life takes a sudden detour when she models as a bride in a period-piece photo shoot. In a blink of an eye, she finds herself in the year 1816, in London, and married to a very aristocratic marquess! How in the world did this happen? Determined to discover the truth, Mattie crosses swords with a voluptuous rival, a badly used new friend, a woebegone Duke, an on-the-shelf lady, a gambling mother-in-law, and a very eager bridegroom, not to mention a pointy-earred... No spoilers! Don’t miss this unique Regency romp!--Regency Fiction World

* What happens when Mattie Newcastle agrees to help her uncle with an advertising photo shoot for his second-hand shop, Yesterday’s Treasures? Instead of a faux wedding ceremony, it turns out to be the real thing... but back in the past during the Regency era! Surprise! After reciting her vows, she discovers she’s actually married to the Marquess of Chesterton, and he... he expects her to be his wife in every meaning of the word. Follow Mattie’s adventures as she tries to figure out just how she traveled back in time and ended up being married to a finger-licking-good lord of the realm. 5 stars: A highly enjoyable story!--Twists On Romance Reviews

YESTERDAY’S TREASURES is available for purchase electronically at Amazon.com, coming soon to Smashwords.com, and Universal Link.

Available in Print!

Regency novels by Susanne include:

New! Yesterday’s Treasures (Time-Travel)

Wishing For A Duke (Time-Travel)

An Unusual Masquerade (Time-Travel)

Timeless Deception (Time-Travel)

An Impossible Alliance (Time-Travel)

A Delicate Condition (Time-Travel)

The Magic Token (Classic)

Lord Darver’s Match (Time-Travel)

The Contrary Contessa (Classic)

Regency Society Revisited (Time-Travel)

The Reluctant Landlord (Classic)

Have Christmas Card... Will Travel (Time-Travel)

A Continental Marriage (Classic)

The Questing Box (Time-Travel)

A Caixa Mágica--Versão em Português

Paging Miss Galloway (Classic)

Sojourn Through Time (Time-Travel)

A Noble Dilemma (Classic)

Enjoy!

Susanne Marie Knight

http://www.susanneknight.com

Read outside the box: award-winning Romance Writing with a Twist!

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AN INDEPENDENCE DAY TREAT--An Interview With Author Jessica Scachetti

July 4^th in the US of A is an important holiday to remember and give thanks to those who helped make this country free and independent--past, present, and future. Fireworks, barbecues, and celebrations with family and friends are definitely on the agenda for this holiday weekend.

As an Independence Day treat for you, we have an interview with author Jessica Scachetti. She has kindly taken time out of her busy schedule to give us a private fireside chat as she talks about what makes Jessica Scachetti tick. Read on to learn more about this exciting author!

1. Let’s begin at the beginning! Tell us about yourself. On your website, you describe yourself as an indie author of gritty Christian Romance. Can you tell us more about this?

My faith inspires my writing. I'm a believer in unconditional love and forgiveness, which are the values that Christianity teaches. I truly believe no human is beyond reprieve. God can forgive us for anything, and we are to forgive others just the same. Of course it's not always as simple as that. Easier said than done, right?

I did have a bit of a rough upbringing. Not the worst. I know in many ways I'm very fortunate. However, having been tossed back and forth between a split family with differing values and beliefs, it impacted my life in such a way that I got to see two sides of the coin in a manner of speaking. On one hand, my mother was a preacher's wife - my stepfather a pastor - with strict guidance and religious principles projected onto us. On the other, my father and stepmother were faithless, carefree and at times volatile. They partied, fought and didn’t spend much time with us. You will see much of this double perspective reflected in my writing.

I write romance because my own story is a beautiful yet gritty one. I haven't felt moved to share all the deets about it with the reading world just yet but maybe one day I will.

2 What do you enjoy most about writing Christian Romance?

Love is what I enjoy most about writing Christian Romance. Jesus loved us so much that he died for our salvation. There is nothing more beautiful than that. I want to share it with the world through my stories.

3. About your writing: How did you get started? Are your family and friends supportive of your writing?

I have always loved to write. I have an old box full of stories that I wrote as a kid.

Publishing was never really a forethought, until COVID. During lockdown, I was able to find the time to put together an actual book and research how to publish it. The digital age has certainly made things easier for indie authors like myself to self-publish our works.

My friends and family have been so supportive of this journey, and many authors and writers I've met along the way have been amazingly supportive as well.

4. What’s a typical writing day like for you?

I'm taking a break from writing at the moment to push my published works. I work a full-time job and have two young kids, so when I was writing, it was mainly on breaks and late at night when the kids went to bed.

5. How do you define your writing? What are your future goals for your writing?

I would define my writing as fast-paced, short length novels, thus far. Because I'm so busy, that's what I typically have time to read. So, of course I write it as well. Perhaps when life slows down, I will have time to sit down and write a longer, more filling novel.

6. You have a three book series: Wonder of Light. What is the series about? What inspired you to write this series? Are you planning more books?

This series follows a group of seniors in high school and college over the first two books. Starting with Evan and Sarah; two of Belton high's polar opposite students. Sarah is the popular Christian girl and Evan is the emo outcast.

The series covers topics of abuse, bullying, revenge, love, and redemption.

Book 2 involves friends of Evan and Sarah and is military-inspired.

The third and final installment covers the next generation, involving their children.

I came up with the story line for book 1, after watching the movie "I Am Not Ashamed" on Pureflix, which was based on the Columbine shootings that had taken place when I myself was a Christian girl in high school. Having reflected back on that time, coupled with emotions from so many other shootings that happened since that time, is what inspired me to come up with this fictional tale.

7. How do you promote your books? Do you have any favorite promotional sites? Any success stories or horror stories in marketing your books?

For a while now, I've mostly been promoting with bookfunnel. It's helped me build a good chunk of my newsletter following and is the main source of getting my book sales. It's also fairly inexpensive. Bookfunnel provides a tracking link to share each group promo (book fair) that occurs periodically (typically each month). I share the links on all my social media platforms. X seems to be the most fruitful in getting my links visibility.

Pubby has gotten me many of my book reviews. It's a read-and-review-to-get-your-books-read-and-reviewed-style platform. For the most part it's fantastic. I've gotten lots of different feedback. Some good, some bad. The only downside is there are those few readers that leave a pretty bland review, which makes you wonder if they actually even read the book.

I also tried booksprout which was complicated, unsuccessful, and expensive.

8. What’s your latest Work-In-Progress? Do you have any future projects planned?

I have started my second mafia-style Christian romance book. It will be my next published work when I start writing again. I won't publish this piece until the series is complete because I feel bad that I've left readers waiting so long for the next installment, while I'm on a break.

9. Do you ever suffer with writers’ block and if so, how do you work through it?

The only time I really experience writer's block is when my brain is overwhelmed. Too much going on at once. However, I do suffer from lack of motivation, which is why I decided to take a break.

10. What are you passionate about outside of writing?

Aside from spending time with my family, I love to sing, dance, and make candles outside of my writing. I have a candle business on Etsy that I promote as well. I sell locally which has been very productive. Online selling, not so much.

11. What else would you like to share with readers about yourself?

A few more tidbits about me.

I have two kittens, four dogs, two turtles and pot-belly pig.

I just joined the over 40 crowd this year.

I love to support others. It truly delights me to lift up my fellow creatives by sharing and promoting their works.

12. Where can we find more information about you and your books?

You can find more information about me and my books at my website: https://jscachetti.wixsite.com/authorsite

You can find updates, announcements, features (such as authors, books, book-related services, small businesses, and more) in my monthly newsletter. Subscribe here: https://author-jessica-scachetti.mailerpage.io/

All my important links can be found at my linktree: linktr.ee/jessicascachetti_author

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Many thanks again to Jessica for sharing her inspirational story with us. Be sure to check out Jessica’s books and website. We hope you enjoyed this holiday chat!

Happy Reading over the July 4^th holiday!

Susanne

Susanne Marie Knight

www.susanneknight.com

Read outside the box: award-winning Romance Writing With A Twist!

The Scoop On BREAKS AN EGG

Here’s Book Two, BREAKS AN EGG, in the Sedona West Mysteries series. Sedona is trying to move forward in her life but her dead husband keeps pulling her back in!

The titles of the series:

SLEEPS WITH THE FISHES--Book One

BREAKS AN EGG--Book Two

PUSHES UP DAISIES--Book Three

BREAKS AN EGG --Book Two

Just when she thought she was out, she gets pulled back in!

Sedona West wants to move on from the unfortunate murder of her ex husband, however Jervis still has a trick or two up his dead sleeve. He stole two million dollars--now missing--and the Mob thinks she knows where the money is. Her cabin burglarized and shots fired, she turns to the town’s hunky sheriff and the swoon-worthy celebrity psychologist for support. She’d rather turn to them for romance, but gangsters and thugs, masquerading as tourists, have other ideas. More than anything she needs to put the past behind her and live a normal life, but not yet. Sampling the “candy store” goodies of Harrison and Doug will have to wait. Right now Sedona is worried about staying alive!

Sedona’s dead ex husband keeps putting her at risk. Two million dollars that he stole has gone missing, and the Mob thinks she knows where the money is. But she doesn’t... or does she?

 Available on Amazon.com and Smashwords.com.

Universal Link: https://books2read.com/u/bp1wDJ

 The print copy is also available http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1797870319/

This book is part of the Intriguing Mysteries line.

Here’s a fabulous review:

* 5 Stars! The second book of the Sedona West Murder Mysteries Series revisits Sedona’s ex husband and his missing wallet. Sedona just wants to move forward but unfortunately keeps getting pulled back behind. Familiar characters and some new ones play a part in this delightful story. Susanne Marie Knight’s superb writing brings her characters to life and keeps you turning the pages. A really fun series filled with suspense and humor, and also recalls memories of dates that have gone south. I’m on the edge of my seat for the last book in the series: PUSHES UP DAISIES.--Mystery Maven’s Reviews

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Here’s my “Tidbit From Real Life”: Dr. Harrison Oakdale, or rather Dr. Harrison James Oakdale, is a celebrity psychiatrist who questions Sedona on the origin of her name. When she asks about his name, he says, “I was named after my great great grandfather, James Harrison Oakdale. My parents just switched the names around, to dub me Harrison James Oakdale.” One of my great great grandfathers was also named James Harrison... James Harrison Knight, not Oakdale! James served twice in the American Civil War. After being released due to a leg injury, he then re-enlisted and became a captain in the 2^nd Tennessee Cavalry Regiment. In 1865, he was mustered out of service at Nashville, TN. Here is a picture of the metal awarded Civil War veterans. 

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I hope you enjoy Sedona West’s second adventure in BREAKS AN EGG! Next up and the finale is PUSHES UP DAISIES.

Happy reading,

Susanne Marie Knight

www.susanneknight.com

Read outside the box: award-winning Romance Writing With A Twist!

The Scoop On: SLEEPS WITH THE FISHES

The Sedona West Mysteries are a three book series detailing how a lovely young woman recovers from nasty divorce, how she handles being involved in not one murder but too many, and how she finally gets her happily ever after... or does she??

Here are the titles:

SLEEPS WITH THE FISHES--Book One

BREAKS AN EGG--Book Two

PUSHES UP DAISIES--Book Three

I started this series because I missed being able to spend more time with my characters as I did in my Minx Tobin murder mystery series. Watching Sedona recover and grow from her circumstances was very satisfying for me. She also becomes very resourceful. And here’s a secret... I had one man in mind for her when I began but it turns out she chose somebody else! Let me tell you, that was a surprise!

So here is the info on SLEEPS WITH THE FISHES.

SLEEPS WITH THE FISHES--Book One

Sedona gets more than she bargains for when she moves to the idyllic town of Cozy Haven. Her intention is to piece together her shattered life. But Fate decides to throw major roadblocks in her way. First, the hunky sheriff has his eye on her. Second, a celebrity psychologist tries to get her on his private couch. Third, her disreputable ex husband unexpectedly makes an appearance. And fourth, a Girl-Night party turns into an actual Murder party... with all the guests drugged by sedatives in the wine. Talk about a major hangover! And now, Sedona finds herself under the sheriff’s scrutiny as a possible murder suspect. She had the means, the motive, and the opportunity to kill the deceased so how can she convince everyone that she’s innocent?

fter waking up with the hangover of the century, Sedona is shocked to learn she is a murder suspect! Can she actually be the killer?

Available on Amazon.com and Smashwords.com

Universal Link: https://books2read.com/u/m0alwl

The print copy is also available at http://www.amazon.com/dp/1797870319.

This book is part of the Intriguing Mysteries line.

Here are some fabulous reviews:

5 Stars! I adore Ms. Knight’s Minx Tobin Murder Mystery series so I was very excited to learn of this new one: the three book Sedona West Mystery series. Book 1: SLEEPS WITH THE FISHES tells of a newly divorced woman starting over. Will she get her second chance at love? Spoiler Alert: Not in this book, she doesn’t. But things look hopeful that Sedona will decide on her man in Book 2 or 3. As we soon learn, Sedona is in a “candy store” phase when it comes to men... and oh, what men to chose from! In this book, we have a very satisfying murder (!) that then comes with a satisfying conclusion. Looking forward to Book 2: BREAKS AN EGG.--Mystery Maven’s Reviews

5 Kisses! We first discovered this author in the 90s (!) and Ms. Knight keeps getting better and better. SLEEPS WITH THE FISHES is the first in a 3 book series, where, to be blunt, a murder victim sleeps with the fishes! Realistic characters, idyllic setting (except for the murder), and an evolving love story, this mystery novel has it all. Highly recommended.--The Romance Guide

5 Stars! This cozy has it all, romance, mystery-murder and humor. Sedona West has moved to the small town of Cozy Haven, Montana to recover from a nasty divorce and finds herself smackdab in the middle of a murder--her ex-husband. And wouldn't ya know, just when she's sworn off men she's garnered the interest of two hunky males.

The author did a wonderful job of world and character building, helping the reader to dive right into the story. I found it to be a very enjoyable read. A book to be appreciated by cozy murder mystery fans and readers who just want a few hours of escapism.--Sandra Cox Review

5 Stars! An interesting and compelling mystery! I became engaged in this novel from the very first page: The characters, the story line, and the evocative way that Knight sets the scene for the reader. I continued to be engaged as I read the rest of the book. Sleeps with the Fishes shows Knight’s usual deft touch with constructing mystery stories. You will be surprised when you find out who the killer is! Sleeps with the Fishes is part of Knight’s Sedona West series. Sedona is an attractive character, so you will probably find that you want to read about more of her adventures. I will definitely be reading more of this author’s books, and I recommend that you do, too. Steve Arnett Review

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For my “Tidbit From Real Life” that I always like to include in my books, I’ll tell you about an inside joke. Dr. Harrison Oakdale is a celebrity psychiatrist with a little too much ego for his own good. When he sees what he thinks is an interloper on his vacation rental land, he assumes she, Sedona, is there to provide him with a night of pleasure--a celebrity groupie. Then he spots a book cover by her side that is identical to one of his bestsellers. I’ll let Harrison describe his first encounter with Sedona:

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“Of course, you’re reading the perfect book.” He gestured to the hardcover on the dock, next to her lounger chair, and then smirked.

But she didn’t get the connection. She glanced down at the book, and then up at him. Her eyebrows formed a vee of confusion. “This book?”

He’d forgive her for being obtuse. “Certainly. My book was on the New York Times best-seller list for thirty weeks in a row last year.”

Sure, he was bragging, but he was entitled to gloat every now and then.

“This is your book?” she asked.

He didn’t come out here to talk about his books. “Naturally.”

“You wrote The Creative Writing Workbook?”

“What? No, I...” He took a good look at the book and sure enough, the title was as she said, not his Grow Into Your Life best-seller. The Creative Writing Workbook was authored by a woman.

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The joke here is that the book in question is my book. Here’s the cover: 

I certainly had fun with that one!

I hope you enjoy Sedona West’s first adventure in SLEEPS WITH THE FISHES! Next up is BREAKS AN EGG.

Susanne Marie Knight

www.susanneknight.com

Romance Writing With A Twist!

The Scoop On: PAGING MISS GALLOWAY

 WINNER of the prestigious Awe-Struck Regency Award and

EPIC eBook Award Finalist for Best Historical Romance 

My award-winning Regency romance, PAGING MISS GALLOWAY, is my homage to a popular Regency theme: a lady who disguises herself as a boy or a man. Danielle Galloway has a most noble reason for this masquerade. She fears her beloved brother is dangerously ill, and yet her unfeeling father refuses to allow her to travel to Bath so that she can nurse her brother back to health. What’s a headstrong young lady to do?

The answer is obvious: do the unthinkable! Dress as a servant boy so she can safely travel the countryside with no questions asked. Alas! How good intentions often go astray! I really enjoyed the challenges of making Danielle/Danny act as the Earl of Tremaine’s page!

A determined young miss, a battle-weary lord, and a reckless masquerade.

More Than She Bargained For:

Danielle Galloway is determined to visit her convalescing brother. She won’t let her father’s lack of permission stand in her way. Disguising herself as Danny, a servant boy, she takes to the road to begin her grand adventure...only to have her money stolen and her face battered by street ruffians. How will she get to the resort town of Bath now?

More Than He Bargained For:

The Earl of Tremaine rescues a down-on-his-luck young lad. Against his better judgment, he takes Danny on as his page as he journeys to Bath. But this boy harbors a shocking secret. What’s the earl going to do when he discovers his latest act of kindness might hurl him into the parson’s mousetrap?

PAGING MISS GALLOWAY was published by Awe-Struck Books (Mundania Press) and had been with them for many years.

I decided to have the rights returned to me for all my Awe-Struck books--a total of twelve. PAGING MISS GALLOWAY is now available on Amazon.com and Smashwords.com! The universal link is at: https://books2read.com/u/mgYjz6.

What will the Earl of Tremaine do when he discovers his page’s shocking secret?

Amazon.com and Smashwords.com.

https://books2read.com/u/mgYjz6

This book has garnered an impressive list of awards and reviews including WINNER of the prestigious Awe-Struck Regency Award; EPIC Award Finalist for Best Historical Romance; Readers Top Pick Award at Romance Readers At Heart; and FIVE star reviews at Fallen Angel Reviews, Amazon.com, and Goodreads, in addition to being on the Awe-Struck and Fictionwise.com best seller lists.

For those of you who like to read reviews, here they come!

5 Angels! Regency fans will recognize the storyline. A lady disguised as a boy. A lord attracted to the disguised girl. The high jinx that ensues. Except there are enough twists and turns from the standard story to keep Paging Miss Galloway interesting... Paging Miss Galloway is a delightful Regency read.--Fallen Angel Reviews.

Top Pick Award! Danielle is a character that you can’t help but to be drawn to... Her drama along the way was amusing... Paging Miss Galloway was never boring... This was not a long story, which gave me more incentive to read it fast to see how the ending turned out. I was not disappointed.--Romance Reader at Heart

4.5 Books! “Paging Miss Galloway is a lighthearted novel of regency times... I found this book very entertaining and enjoyable. I could feel an invisible string drawing the characters closer to each other, while each fought to maintain the distance required by their positions in life... the writing was strong and easy to read. I would recommend this book to lovers of Regency, especially those with a sense of humor.--Fallen Angel Reviews

4.25 Stars! Susanne Knight does a wonderful job of weaving a story of two mis-matched lovers who quickly have readers hoping for them to find their way to each other. This is a wonderful romp through Bath that leaves the reader eagerly turning pages to see what Danielle and Edward will do next....this wonderful Regency romance...[leaves] us wanting more.--Night Owl Romance Book Reviews.

4 Stars! You Need to Read! Paging Miss Galloway by Susanne Marie Knight is an irrepressibly fun comedy of hidden agendas and mistaken identities all done in the tradition of the late, great Georgette Heyer... Ms. Knight does an exceptional job of keeping the tension uppermost in her readers‘ minds as she keeps Danny from revealing her true identity to Edward while we watch her feelings for him grow deeper. The multiple subplots embedded within the story are a great literary technique. Rather than detracting from the main theme of love recognizing its match in spite of life’s obstacles, the subplots only add to and bolster the story even more. I found Paging Miss Galloway to be a very entertaining and enjoyable romance, just the right book to read when you want to relax for a few hours, and escape in the past.--You Gotta Read Reviews

4 Shamrocks! ... this was rather cute with a couple of twists that made it quite interesting. This was a light read with what seemed two mismatched leads making for some very humorous moments. It was shored up with the addition of Tremaine’s best friend Xavier Raleigh whose sometimes ribald comments put the blush on Danny’s cheeks, a clue which Tremaine figure out just what seemed off about his page. Bottom line: This was a wonderful romp through Regency England complete with mild sensuality that was fun and leaves the reader thoroughly entertained.--CK2sKwipsandKritques

“Paging Miss Galloway is a cute Regency tale of disguises, deception, and unexpected love... A fun, quick read!”--Joyfully Reviewed

5 Stars! A fun read! I chose this book because the heroine was dressed as a boy, and no one knew it! This was a fun book to read. I would recommend it to anyone who loves regency stories!--Amazon.com

5 STARS! This is super.--Goodreads

Hell of a story!--K.M.

I read PAGING MISS GALLOWAY and loved the story!--G.M.

My copy of PAGING MISS GALLOWAY arrived on Saturday. I immediately started reading it. I love it!!--C.K.

I loved every minute of PAGING MISS GALLOWAY! I had to stay up way past my bedtime to finish reading this delightful book!!--N.W.

The book is as clever as the trailer!--T. M.

Just wanted you to know how I enjoyed PAGING MISS GALLOWAY. I finished PAGING MISS GALLOWAY yesterday. That twist at the end was so unexpected. And I loved Edward!--G.B.

This is just fabulous! You are a very talented writer.--J.R.

For PAGING MISS GALLOWAY: YOU are good!--K.S.

I've got this book on my ereader. Can't wait to read it. It's first on my list.--R.C.

PAGING MISS GALLOWAY has THE magic!!--D.C.

There's no substitute for a truly traditional regency, with a plucky (and sometimes naive) heroine, gender disguises, on-the-road adventures, and a great deal of comedy just from the situations the heroine finds herself in. I very much enjoyed...Paging Miss Galloway. C.G.

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This book is part of the prestigious Elegant Regencies line.

Here’s an excerpt from PAGING MISS GALLOWAY that was inspired from real life, I’m sorry to say! Many years ago I wasn’t much of a wine drinker, just like our heroine, Danielle. And because I wasn’t used to the intoxicating power of wine, I forgot an important rule: never drink on an empty stomach. Two glasses of the stuff at an afternoon gathering proved my undoing: I had to “cast up my accounts” just as Danielle did!

Scene set-up: During a picnic nuncheon with her employer, the Earl of Tremaine and his friend Lord Raleigh, Danielle, in her disguise as Danny the page, drinks her first glass of potent Madeira wine.

The Earl of Tremaine held up his wine goblet. "Let us not concern ourselves with business. Fill my glass, Danny, and keep it filled. The same for Raleigh and you."

Danielle did as she was bid, with Lord Raleigh holding the third glass for her. Sitting as the men sat, with one knee up and the other resting on the ground, was a very liberating sensation. As was the sweet, fortified wine.

Soon her head swam in an agreeable haze. The men engaged in conversation that didn’t interest her, so she allowed her mind to wander. She gazed out at the peaceful countryside. A plentitude of tiny wild daisies dotted gentle slopes of unruly green grass. The horses took their fill of the grass, stopping only to quench their thirst at a nearby babbling stream.

Leaning back to rest her weight on her right hand, she sipped at the wine with her left. She smiled, in harmony with one and all. "This is so lovely."

She turned at Lord Raleigh’s laughter.

"Look at the red cheeks on the lad. Pure scarlet! I believe the dear boy’s a bit bosky." He grinned. "I will wager your head is spinning, Danny."

Her smile widened. "Maybe. Only a bit."

His laugh deepened. "No? Not three sheets in the wind yet? Just wait!"

Before she could blink, Lord Raleigh set her glass aside and grabbed her hands. He pulled her up and out from the elm tree’s shade. Still holding her hands, he ran with her in a tight circle, humming a tune and laughing at the same time.

At first she enjoyed the sensation, then her head really did start spinning. She tried to pull away, but he didn’t release her hands.

The next thing she knew, Lord Tremaine had wrenched her free from Lord Raleigh. But she still spun. Wide-eyed, she stared at the moving images of the earl. Then her stomach revolted. She clapped her hand over her mouth. Good heavens, she was going to do the unthinkable: cast up her accounts right in front of him!

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I hope you enjoy my take on this popular Regency theme, and also Danielle and the Earl of Tremaine’s story!

Susanne Marie Knight

http://www.susanneknight.com

Read outside the box: award-winning Romance Writing with a Twist!

The Scoop on: A SESTERCE FOR HER THOUGHTS

A SESTERCE FOR HER THOUGHTS is a completely different genre for me. Time-travel to Ancient Rome? Two thousand years into the past? Omigosh! What am I thinking??

The truth is, the idea intrigued me. So here’s how this seed of a storyline grew. I was in the middle of my Sedona West murder mystery series when I received as a gift the DVD set for the BBC production,” I, Claudius.” I’d watched some of the programs over the years, but not the entire series. Honestly, it was a real treat to sit down and “binge watch” them. I already had in my library some of the historical sources dealing with this time period: Suetonius and Tacitus so I was familiar with this fascinating retelling of Roman events. And Claudius, dear unusual Claudius... what actually happened in Rome all those years ago?

What if... what if I could go back in time and interview him? Yep, my writer’s mind was working furiously. I’d already planned a time travel Regency as my next book, but I think it was when Claudius’ invasion of Britannia was mentioned on the DVD that the light bulb went off. The emperor’s military campaign came to a head in Colchester, known as Camulodunum back then. And this meant I could still do a time travel to England... but back to the year 43 AD instead of Regency times!

The more I thought about it, the more convinced I was to try to write this novel. But what did I know about Ancient Rome? About Roman legions? About everyday life for the nobility, freedmen, and slaves? Not too much, I can tell you. So I read non-fiction and fiction books on all topics imaginable. I watched many DVDs to get a feel for the flavor of life back then. As for Latin... yikes. That was super hard.

After a few months of massive research, I was ready to weave together my story: a forensic anthropologist, Olivia, who inadvertently time-travels back to 43 AD; a weary Roman legate, Quintus, who yearns for retirement; and the Emperor Claudius, who was a bit mysterious, even back then.

A SESTERCE FOR HER THOUGHTS:

Olivia Kent knows a brass sesterce is an ancient Roman coin with a value roughly calculated to be one fourth of a day’s pay. What she doesn’t know is that one particular sesterce is going to transport her two thousand years back in time to 43 AD and Rome’s invasion of Britannia. With the help of a Druid priestess, Olivia dresses as a Roman soldier, and meets Emperor Claudius, along with a handsome legion commander. She changes both of their lives for the better... and her own as well. But here’s her dilemma: should she remain back in the first century where she can make a difference? Or should she take a chance and try to return to her own time?

A QUARTER FOR HIS THOUGHTS:

Quintus Antonius Avitus, commander of Legio XX Valeria Victrix, has served Rome faithfully but is weary of war. On this invasion, he comes across a puny, injured soldier, Livius. The soldier states that he is an American from a land to the west of Britannia--which is impossible since there are no lands past Britannia. But Livius is full of surprises, and also turns out to be a comely female named Olivia. Perhaps she is telling the truth? She is unlike any woman he has known. However, she insists that she cannot stay and must return to her home, despite the fact that Emperor Claudius wants her to accompany him to Rome. Quintus is torn: omnia vincit amor facit--does love conquer all? Or should he continue to auxilio imperatoris--help his Emperor?

An ancient coin transports Olivia two thousand years back in time to the Roman invasion of Britannia and into the arms of a hunky legion commander!

Available on Amazon.com and Smashwords.com.

Universal Link: https://books2read.com/u/ml6AWY

This book is part of the Exciting Time-Travels line.

 * 5 Sesterces... and 5 Stars! I confess I’m new to the genre of Ancient Roman romance and all that, and I have to say now, after reading A SESTERCE FOR HER THOUGHTS, I’m hooked!! Olivia, our fish-out-of-water from the twenty-first century, has to quickly adjust to the brutal world of Imperial Rome. Fortunately she has help, otherwise it’s for certain she would’ve been in more danger than just the initial beating at the beginning of her adventure. Her concern for the Emperor Claudius is touching, and as for Quintus, well, he is a warrior with macho integrity. As a couple, they have a huge divide in cultures and expectations to overcome. Thankfully, they concentrate on the things they have in common, instead of the differences. And then, of course, comes Olivia’s dilemma... For a peek into a creative imagining of what may have happened two thousand years ago--an alternate reality, do yourself a favor and read A SESTERCE FOR HER THOUGHTS.--Just Imagine Fanzine

* 5 Stars! Quite a different read: part creative and part historical. Ms. Knight shows just how very different life was two thousand years ago, and yet people still had the same needs driving them. I enjoyed how she sprinkled Latin into the conversations to show how Olivia had to slowly translate and interpret Roman conversations. Frankly, I enjoyed everything: we discover each piece of the puzzle, to then put it all together to learn the surprise twist... or twists at the end. Excellent!--Norwood Reviews

* 5 Stars! An Outstanding Time Travel Adventure! The charming and delightful novel allows the reader to time travel back to the Roman Empire... You will be captivated by [Olivia’s] adventures--if you are like me, you will also probably learn a lot about ancient Rome that you didn’t know before!--Amazon Review

I am devouring this book!! Very, very few novels set in ancient times, even fewer romances, and as for time-travel... basically zip. Wonderful story!--Reader Comment

* 5 Stars! Delighting travel to Ancient Rome! Forensic anthropologist Olivia Kent is invited to participate in an archeological discovery of the remains of a settlement from the early Roman Imperial period in Colchester, England, once known as Camulodunum. She's insecure and suspicious about the invitation as she had recently graduated and the fact that her bossy older brother, Mathias, is also part of the team. Gathering her few belongings and her courage, she goes to England and meets the team at the old Kingston Castle. Once there, while digging, she found an ancient roman coin and is thrown two thousand years back. It's amazing how Ms. Knight builds this riveting story and shows us glimpses of Ancient Rome history. It's a page-turning romance with an unexpected and surprising end (no spoilers!) I highly recommend it!--Amazon Review

Onto my tidbits from real life. A pair of dice plays an important role in A SESTERCE FOR HER THOUGHTS. As it turns out, dice-playing was a favorite activity of the emperor’s. It’s documented that Claudius even wrote a book on it. So I had Olivia bring her lucky pair of dice with her on her trip to Colchester. Here’s a picture of the blue dice, below. They are mine and really were a souvenir from Las Vegas. As for winning $500 there, well, no, that didn’t happen, unfortunately!

In front of the large blue dice is a pair of gold dice I purchased online based on an Ancient Roman pair that the emperor might have actually owned.

Here’s the scene where Quintus, given the dice by Olivia, hands them over to Claudius.

 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

With a frown, the Emperor took the small bag. He opened the drawstring and looked inside. “B-By the sacred she-wolf of Rome!” Two dice tumbled out into his hand; two colossal-sized dice the color of a moonlit sea. And just as transparent.

Claudius fingered each one. “These are very finely made, Quintus. And what are they made from? My own set of gold dice seems paltry next to these Am-American wonders.”

“Look at the side with the number ‘Two’, sir. A strange phrase: ‘Las Vegas.’ What can that mean?”

Claudius pulled out his gold dice and handed them to Quintus. As tiny as the dice were, they felt heftier than the overly large set of dice.

 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

For a highly unusual time-travel romance with a heavy dose of history, give A SESTERCE FOR HER THOUGHTS a try. I hope you enjoy Olivia and Quintus’ extraordinary story!

Susanne Marie Knight

http://www.susanneknight.com

Read outside the box: award-winning Romance Writing with a Twist!

The Scoop on: THE AWAY PLACE

The genesis for my fantasy/paranormal romance, THE AWAY PLACE, is a little different from my other books. In this tale, I wanted to create a magical place for the heroine to heal, but I also wanted to include storylines from two unfinished short stories that I’d worked on in the past.

The first short story was entitled “Do-Over”. I started writing this for an online publisher with the idea that the heroine, doomed to die, would be getting a magical “do-over”. For various reasons, I didn’t get very far with this.

The second short story was “Educating Mr. Wrong”, where the hero was rather uncouth and the heroine would make him see the error of his ways. Again, I didn’t get very far with this because other projects came my way so I dropped it.

I also decided to include an actual fairytale that I’d written for a writer’s course. Now retitled “The Princess’ Soulmate”, this fairytale includes the magical North Wind... who is an integral character in THE AWAY PLACE.

From the book’s blurb, you can see how “Do-Over” plays an important part and also how “Educating Mr. Wrong” fits in, too!

A HEALING HEARTS ROMANCE

THREE STRIKES AGAINST HER:

Marta Jordan has hit rock bottom... and she’s only twenty-one. Her parents are killed in a tragic accident, her new husband steals from her, and a serious health diagnosis threatens her life. Marta is in desperate need of an intervention. Enter her fairy godmother and fairy godfather: Sola and Quill--the East and North Winds. Providing an enchanted cabin so Marta can heal, they also offer her a do-over... and a chance to walk on the wild side. Will Marta throw all caution to the wind (pun intended!) and listen to her magical helpers?

SECOND TIME’S A CHARM:

Joe Noble is every woman’s Mr. Wrong. So much so that his wife not only divorced him, but their ten-year-old son, Nicky, too. Now only looking for a good time with no strings attached, Joe gets a wake-up call when the consequences of his irresponsible actions finally catch up to him. He has a choice: he can continue to drift or he can “man up” to become a good father, in addition to wooing and winning the woman of his heart, Marta.

BONUS: The fairytale, “The Princess’ Soulmate” is also included!

 Down-and-out Marta Jordan gets a second chance when the magical North and East Winds stage an intervention. Will she accept their challenge and to learn to love again?

Amazon.com and Smashwords.com.

Universal link: https://books2read.com/u/47vQXL

In print at Amazon.com.

THE AWAY PLACE is available at Amazon.com and Smashwords.com, in addition to other internet locations. Universal link: https://books2read.com/u/47vQXL

It’s received great reviews including 5 Stars on Amazon!

Here are some wonderful reviews:

* 5 Stars! A romantic, sweet, and unforgettable fairytale! THE AWAY PLACE serves up two opposites, Marta and Joe, who are both recovering from the slings and arrows of life. Throw in the magic of a delightful godmother and an incredibly sexy godfather, and you have the ingredients for a delightful story that will please all romance readers! THE AWAY PLACE is a wonderful place to leave your everyday burdens at the door!--Twists on Romance Reviews

* 5 Stars! THE AWAY PLACE delivers! You’ll find magic, romance, sexy encounters, second chances, precocious children, healing hearts, and an original classic fairytale: “The Princess’ Soulmate.” Young Marta Jordan has been hit so many times by tragedy, she’s begging for a do-over. The Four Winds of Myth and Legend decide to grant her request... in the form of good-time bad boy, Joe Noble. But whiskey-drinking, love-‘em-and-leave-‘em Joe is nobody’s hero. Or is he? Escape from your ordinary world with Ms. Knight’s latest fantasy, THE AWAY PLACE!--Just Imagine Fanzine

S. A. Santos Review

Vicky Whedbee Review

5 Stars! Love and Magic. Who would expect to encounter magic, especially in the form of the east and north winds? But that's what happens when Marta Jordan decides to end it all after a series of tragic events leaves her bereft of hope. Not only do the delightful winds--Sola and Quill--intervene, they introduce sexy Joe Noble into her life, who's dealing with his own set of issues. After that the magic begins. This charming tale deftly combines love and magic in a modern day fairytale.--Review by author Sandra Cox R

This book is part of the Magical Fantasies line and the Uncanny Paranormals line.

Here’s a real life tidbit. Marta is a professional artist. I, on the other hand, dabbled. I had training in art, graduating from New York’s High School of Music and Art, but I never saw this as my profession. Back in the day, acrylics weren’t de rigueur yet, so the mediums available were oil and water paints, in addition to charcoals, pencils, etc. But acrylics... wow. Acrylics are so much more versatile than oil paints. Below is one of the many paintings I have displayed in a room that I call my “Happy Room”!

Marta decides to take up painting again and here are some of her thoughts about this medium:

 

Working in acrylic had many benefits. The paint dried quickly and was very forgiving with mistakes. Soon she blocked in the main area of the painting--the lake--starting with the shallow, clear waters near her and then out beyond to the opposite shoreline.

 

And:

 

All she had to do when she got back to the cabin was to wash paintbrushes. That was another good thing about acrylics. The paint was water soluble, not like oil paints.

 

I hope you enjoy Marta and Joe’s magical story.

Susanne Marie Knight

http://www.susanneknight.com

Read outside the box: award-winning Romance Writing with a Twist!