When my husband suggested a trip to Death Valley National Park in February, I hesitated. I’m a mountain girl, after all. Give me misty forests, alpine lakes, and snow-dusted peaks, and I’m content. The thought of trading all that for barren salt flats and endless desert seemed… well, a little bleak.
But what I found there? It took my breath away.
Furnace Creek Campground
We rolled into Furnace Creek in our Winnebago Solis campervan, the desert sun charging the van’s solar panels while cool breezes threaded through the open windows. There’s something oddly luxurious about winter camping in a place that bakes in summer—like we’d slipped in through a secret backdoor, welcomed by the land before the heat arrived.
So much to see
Our days were full of wonder. We hiked the golden Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, half-hoping to spot a lost droid or two from Star Wars fame (See title photo above). We drove the winding curves of Artist’s Drive, where the rocks are splashed with wild colors—lavender, green, rose, ochre—as if God got playful with a paintbrush.
We watched the sun melt into the horizon at Zabriskie Point, bathing the landscape in molten light. The view was so dramatic, it felt almost sacred. I thought of Psalm 23:4:
Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me. Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. [NASB]
I find it interesting that in The Message, author Eugene Peterson’s paraphrase of this verse refers to Death Valley by name:
Even when the way goes through Death Valley, I’m not afraid when you walk at my side. Your trusty shepherd’s crook makes me feel secure. [MSG]
Standing there, in a place literally called Death Valley, I didn’t feel fear. I felt awe. And presence. And peace.
We visited the Natural Bridge, wandered through the salt-encrusted cracks of the Badwater Basin (the lowest point in North America!), and had fun discussing geology. With two advanced degrees in geography between us, you can bet we were totally nerding out. Being in the “lowest place” felt almost poetic—like tracing the contours of Earth’s story with our own feet.
We tried to spot fighter jets roaring through Rainbow Canyon (aka Star Wars Canyon), but the Air Force didn’t get our memo. Still, the canyon was worth the visit.
Our favorite hike
Our favorite hike, hands-down, was the loop around Ubehebe Crater. The crater is massive—half a mile wide and over 700 feet deep—and hiking its rim gave us sweeping views of volcanic drama and desert solitude. The stillness of the place gave a sense of the sacred.
The People of Death Valley
We also made a stop at the Harmony Borax Works, wandering through the remnants of the 20-mule team days. There’s something humbling about the grit and determination it took to survive and work in this landscape. Much of the labor was done by Chinese immigrants who spent long days in the heat scraping borax from the salt flats. At night, they camped on-site in tents and crude shelters while the other employees bunked at nearby Furnace Creek Ranch.
Final thoughts
What I expected to be dry and desolate turned out to be deeply moving. Death Valley isn’t barren—it’s honest. Even around the remains of the Borax works, life still clings: desert blooms, curious ravens, resilient lizards. In the park’s wild silence, I found a kind of clarity I hadn’t known I was missing.
I came home with sand in my shoes, salt on my skin, and a heart full of unexpected gratitude. Sometimes it’s in the starkest places that God reminds us—we’re never truly alone.
Have you ever visited Death Valley—or a place that surprised you? I’d love to hear about it in the comments!
Welcome to my blog and another First Kiss Friday! My guest today is Ramona Elmes who has an excerpt from A Rekindled Attraction. We hope you enjoy this first kiss scene. Happy reading, my lovelies!
Excerpt:
London – November 1852
Bennett Hendricks, the Earl of Bromley, had a problem, and he wasn’t sure how he was going to fix it. He stood, hiding in an alcove. The spot was a rather magnificent place to disappear as the alcove was shielded from the ballroom crush by a monstrously large potted plant. He pondered his next steps. His mother, unconcerned with checking with him first, had declared to all the marriage-minded mothers that he was shopping for a bride this season. He. Was. Not.
Bromley wasn’t against marriage. In truth, he imagined himself married someday. The issue was when he took the time to consider who he would wed, there was only one lady suitable. He frowned. Perhaps suitable was the wrong word. Plenty of ladies would suffice from a society standpoint. But there was only one woman he loved and desired. But until a few weeks ago he’d almost forgotten he desired Leonora Walker.
Even to himself, it seemed far-fetched that a man could forget his hunger and want for another, but Bromley had done it. It had started when she’d married more than a decade ago. He’d spent many nights convincing himself that what he thought he felt for Leonora was a figment of his imagination until he eventually believed it. Even after she was no longer married, Bromley didn’t allow himself to hope for more than friendship. Then something happened. Something that Leonora didn’t want to speak about, and he suspected, scared her so much, she was now acting as his mother’s full-time assistant in his bride hunt.
They’d kissed and what was once forgotten became ferociously remembered. It had all been so innocent at first. They’d snuck off to his library to share a drink together, escaping the ball his mother was hosting. From a society standpoint, their actions could be perceived as scandalous, but they weren’t young innocents. Bromley was thirty-three and Leonora was thirty-two.
They’d entered the room laughing and flopped down on a sofa next to each other. Leonora had brought up some drivel about a lady who would make a fine bride. He’d asked her about a potential new husband for her and she’d blushed, saying her marriage days were over. Gentlemen didn’t marry women who were divorced. It would be too scandalous.
Still, that wasn’t what sent them careening down this path so different from just being childhood friends. He closed his eyes, remembering.
“Brom, do you know the worst part?”
“No, love.”
“All the years I was married, not once did I feel desired or wanted. Doesn’t that seem dreadful?”
“You have never shared a kiss with someone other than the man I refuse to call your husband.”
He looked at her. She was a beautiful woman and had become more stunning with the passage of time. Her blonde hair framed a heart-shaped face and her eyes sparkled. Laughter and merriment often lurked in them. Well, at least it did since she stopped being married to her ass of a husband.
She shook her head. He gently grabbed her chin, tilting her face towards him. “Leonora, you are a very desirable woman.”
Her mouth parted and her pink tongue darted out, wetting her bottom lip. His body stirred and without thinking of the consequences, he dipped his head down, pressing his lips to hers. Her soft, yielding mouth beckoned him to explore more. He teased her mouth open while pulling her closer. A gasp escaped her, and he snuck his tongue into her mouth, playing an enticing game with her.
He groaned and moved a hand down her back before caressing her hip. She pulled away, looking at him, bewildered. Her eyes drifted back to his lips, and he leaned in to taste her again. The movement appeared to shock her back to her senses. She jumped up, likely remembering who he was, who she was, and that they did not do these things together. Leonora looked at first as if she would say something, but instead darted from the room.
Bromley sighed and pushed the memory away. He’d tried to talk to her about the kiss, but she’d said it was best forgotten. The problem was Bromley had barely been able to suppress his feelings for Leonora before she was married. Now, she wasn’t. He scowled. Leonora would never consider anything more between them because she was divorced due to scandalous circumstances. He didn’t give a damn.
Yes, she was one of the few ladies in the history of England to obtain a divorce, and Parliament likely only granted it so others could save face and forget about the man who swindled the ton. Prior to being carted off to America to pay for crimes there, Leonora’s husband Tobias Walker had taken massive amounts of money from several lords and then promptly spent it, instead of investing it, as he promised. Society wanted to simply forget about the man.
“I can see you,” the woman he was contemplating said on the other side of the potted plant.
He grabbed her elbow and pulled her back into the alcove. “How did you spot me?”
“You are wearing a vibrant green jacket. Do you really think I wouldn’t be able to find you? We can’t stay here. People will talk if they see us.”
“Let them talk,” he said mulishly.
She sighed as if dealing with a child. “You can’t hide here all night, Bennett.”
He sulked. “Don’t call me that. Only my mother uses that name.”
Bromley hated his given name and never went by it. He knew she was using it to irritate him.
She rolled her eyes. “Fine. Still, you need to come out and mingle.”
“I’ve danced with more ladies this evening than any other man here. I feel like a trinket every lady wants to acquire.”
Her full lips tilted up in a smirk. “Poor Bromley. Come walk with me at least.”
“Promise me we will circle the room at least twice without you making me speak to some young lady?”
She rolled her eyes. “I will do my best.”
He supposed he couldn’t ask for more than that. He held his arm out and they discreetly moved back into the room. Leonora sighed, “If you are trying to hide from all these ladies, maybe you should tone down your clothing.”
Bromley was known for wearing rather bold colors. What could he say? He liked them. Everyone looked better to him in vivid hues. His eyes darted to Leonora, who was in a muted rose colored ball gown. His friend looked beautiful, but in a bright red or vivid rose, she’d have men falling all over her. Perhaps, he should be happy she appreciated the art of the subtle.
“There must be one lady who has struck your fancy?”
They rounded a corner. He leaned closer. “How about I will share with you my thoughts on ladies, when you talk to me about our incident in my library a few weeks ago?”
A blush tinged her cheeks. She frowned at him. “It was an unfortunate mistake. We probably had too much brandy.”
“We’ve had far more brandy together than that.”
She looked away but finally turned back and whispered, “We shared a moment. It isn’t something that can happen again. We are too good of friends to have a liaison. You need to be focused on finding a respectable match, and I don’t fall into that group.”
He opened his mouth to disagree with her, but she held up a hand. “No matter what you say, a divorcée is not a true consideration for a proper gentleman. Deep down, you know this. Can we talk about your realistic options?”
Bromley stopped, causing Leonora to stumble slightly. He helped steady her, then frowned down at her. “Who gets to decide that? I’m not sure I agree with you.”
Her green eyes he loved so much widened in surprise. She sputtered. “Bromley, stop talking nonsense. There are so many lovely ladies looking for a husband right now. Be practical.”
Bromley stared at her, disappointment filling him. “Do you really want me to be?”
She swallowed, drawing his eyes to the beautiful swan-like neck he very much wanted to run his mouth down. “It was just a kiss. Nothing more. You’ve kissed a plethora of women.”
“Leonora—”
“Lady Beatrice, may I have a moment of your time?” she asked as the young woman walked by.
The lady’s eyes widened in confusion. Leonora smiled at him and said, “Excuse me, Lord Bromley.”
A Rekindled Attraction By Ramona Elmes
Welcome to the Ball of Sin series, featuring four steamy novellas set around a decadent annual masquerade ball in Victorian England. Gossip suggests every year a secret matchmaker does everything in their power to encourage one couple to realize their one night together of fun and vice is only the beginning of their happily ever after. Meet the matchmaker’s next couple:
Lord Bromley has always loved his childhood friend Leonora Walker and was shattered when she married a decade ago. In a shocking turn of events, Leonora is now divorced, and London society has deemed her unsuitable for any proper gentleman. Frustrating Bromley, she is unbothered about the prospect of never marrying again and more interested in playing matchmaker for him.
An unexpected searing kiss between them confirms for Bromley that his feelings aren’t one-sided. Unwilling to have anyone but her, he secretly arranges for her to attend the most notorious ball of the season. He has one night to show Leonora that friendship is only the beginning of what exists between them.
The series is in the same character world as the Nouveau Riche series.
Since stealing her first historical romance novel from her mother more than twenty years ago, Ramona Elmes has been all in on the genre. Her infatuation with the historical and steamy stirred her to write her own romances.
Ramona loves to write happily ever afters set in the Victorian era. She believes this period makes an exciting backdrop for fast-paced storylines, steamy moments, dramatic endings, and memorable characters.
When not creating ways to entice and torture her characters, she spends her days in Georgia coordinating her family’s crazy life, refereeing pets, hiking, and reading on her front porch.
Reading is hands-down her favorite way to relax, and she is an avid reader of all romance subgenres. Give her a dramatic storyline, a grand declaration, and heart-filled steamy moments, and she is in.
To get updates on Ramona’s books, follow her on Amazon, Facebook, Instagram, or her website.
Welcome to my First Kiss Friday blog. Today’s guests are Sara Adrien and Tanya Wilde who have an excerpt from their book Dare To Tempt An Earl This Spring. We hope you enjoy this first kiss scene. Happy reading, my lovelies!
Excerpt:
A sudden urge to run a finger along the line of his face filled her, but more than that, a reckless urge to kiss him. She could hardly believe herself, yet there it was, a wild temptation that made her fingers twitch. But then, once she set her mind on a task, she gave it her all. And, well, Ashley refused to miss the perfect opportunity to grab the man by the lapels and boldly rob him of his breath!
So, she did just that.
She yanked him to her, planting her lips firmly on his. The man had the gall to speak of virtue. Well, then, she would have the gall to kiss this vexing mouth into submission! His heart would, hopefully, follow soon enough.
His body tensed beneath her, his hands coming to rest on her waist, probably unsure of whether to pull her closer or push her away. But he didn’t push her away. She wanted to take charge, to sculpt this impulsive moment into something she controlled. But no. Linsey met her passion with an intensity that startled her, a force that left her breathless. His hand cradled the back of her head, a tender gesture that contrasted with the hunger in the kiss.
So good.
Ashley’s senses reeled, torn between the desire to lead and the unexpected thrill of being met with equal force. The air around them pulsed with the heat of their intertwined spirits; even as she fought for control, she couldn’t deny the electricity sparking from his touch, setting her every nerve alight.
Ashley’s senses spiraled, caught between her desire to command and the thrilling shock of his equal thirst. The air between them crackled with electricity, pulsing with heat and tension, every touch sparking a fire along her skin. She could feel the strength in him, the restrained power beneath the gentlemanly bearing, and she hated how much she liked it.
She was in his lap.
Her weight pressed him back into the corner of the bench.
Then why, oh why, did it feel as though he had taken complete control of their kiss? Over her senses?
No! Ashley wouldn’t allow it.
Her free hand cupped the back of his head, pulling him closer, deepening the kiss, intent on reclaiming the reins. She was not one to yield easily!
But then… Oh. His teeth grazed her lower lip before his tongue pushed in. Her heart stumbled, skipping a few beats.
And then it stopped altogether.
The man could kiss.
And how he could kiss!
Every breath, every movement of his lips against hers sent a dizzying thrill through her, unraveling her will power in a way she hadn’t foreseen. This wasn’t a mere kiss. It was a claiming. And it was far too spellbinding.
Ashley had never been so bewildered before.
How was it possible that his mouth could simply touch hers, and her insides leapt with a giddy thrill?
No, it wasn’t merely that.
It was a heady blend of sparkling contact, a fiery dance of tongues, and his intoxicating scent overpowering her senses. Her heart had ceased its rhythmic beats, and her lungs forgot how to draw in air. Breathless and dazed, Ashley’s bones turned to cotton. Kissing like this, the man certainly didn’t seem like the villain who would send another man fleeing from London.
He seemed like just the right man to hold her in his strong arms and kiss her for as long as she existed. Anyone who claimed a woman like that—claimed her like Thomas did—would surely be—
And then it was over.
He pulled away and stared down at her. Ashley stared back, no words ready to fire from her tongue. Was this what they called speechlessness?
Oh dear, it was horrible!
The tips of his fingers brushed over his mouth. “What did you just do?”
“I, I kissed you.” And you devoured me back. She suddenly laughed. “Why? Are you scared?”
Dare To Tempt An Earl This Spring by Sara Adrien and Tanya Wilde
She plans revenge. He wagers his future. But neither bets on love.
Lady Ashley never imagined she’d lose the love of her life because of a heartless wager. And she knows exactly who to blame for her heartbreak. Thomas, the Earl of Linsey, has it all—wealth, prestige, good looks, and his prized thoroughbred horses. Determined to exact her own kind of justice, Ashley hatches a daring scheme to steal the one thing he values most. But as she enters his world, she discovers an infuriatingly charming man with unruly wit and a passion that stirs something deep within her. The closer she gets to stealing his horses, the harder it becomes to shield her heart.
Thomas, the irresistible Earl of Linsey, is a man bound by secrets and a wager that will change his life. If he doesn’t marry before his 25th birthday, he’ll lose more than his dignity to a ruthless rival. But even as time passes, he focuses on preparing his horses for the Royal Ascot. That is, until Ashley saunters into his life. With her sharp tongue and undeniable allure, she’s both the distraction he doesn’t need and the woman who ignites a fire he can’t ignore. Yet Thomas begins to suspect Ashley has ulterior motives, and untangling her secrets may cost him more than his treasured horses.
Their battle of wits sparks undeniable passion, but when deception and betrayal come to light, will Thomas and Ashley risk it all for a love they never saw coming?
Step into a world of glittering ballrooms, fiery attraction, and scandalous secrets in the first book of this steamy Regency romance series by #1 bestselling authors Sara Adrien and Tanya Wilde. Perfect for fans of enemies to lovers, sizzling romance, and the thrill of sweet revenge. Don’t miss this captivating series starter filled with witty banter, dangerous stakes, and a love worth fighting for!
Note: This series is part of Dragonblade’s Flame line, so this is a scorching-hot read with open-door steam.
Wedding Fever Series:
Book 1: Dare to Tempt an Earl This Spring Book 2: How to Lose A Prince This Summer Book 3: How To Seduce A Duke This Autumn Book 4: Ways To Kiss A Marquess This Winter
About the Authors:
Sara Adrien
Bestselling author Sara Adrien writes hot and heart-melting Regency romance with a Jewish twist. As a law professor-turned-author, she writes about clandestine identities, whims of fate, and sizzling seduction. If you like unique and intelligent characters, deliciously sexy scenes, and the nostalgia of afternoon tea, then you’ll adore Sara Adrien’s tender tear-jerkers.
For more information and exclusive sneak peeks, new releases, and more, sign up for Sara Adrien’s newsletter at www.SaraAdrien.com
Tanya Wilde
Award-Winning and International Bestselling author Tanya Wilde developed a passion for reading when she had nothing better to do than lurk in the library during her lunch breaks. Her love affair with pen and paper soon followed, after she devoured all their historical romance books! When she’s not meddling in the lives of her characters or pondering names for her imaginary big, white greyhound, she’s off on adventures with her partner in crime.
Wilde lives in a town at the foot of the Outeniqua Mountains, South Africa. You can read a bit more about her at www.authortanyawilde.com
Hello and welcome back to my First Kiss Friday blog! Today I have my dear friend Cerise DeLand who will share an excerpt from her novel Lie Down With A Lyon that releases April 30th. I just love all the books in the Lyon’s Den Connected World and we know you’ll love Cerise’s next contribution. And that cover! So swoon worthy. Happy reading, my lovelies, and enjoy!
Excerpt:
He stepped around her, his height and breadth a barrier between her and the wind. He lifted her chin. His tormented gaze deepened to a river of regret as the gathering clouds blocked out the sun. Catching her wrists, he pressed the palms of her hands to the flat of his chest. Beneath her flesh, his own pounded. “If I could, I would marry one woman.”
She could not bear to ask if that lady was her. Oh, but she could hope. “What deters you?”
“She and I are star-crossed.”
“Can that chasm not be bridged?”
He brought her hands up to his lips, and the journey they took began with the press of his lips to one wrist, then the other. “No,” he rasped. “She is not mine to have.”
“How…how do you know?”
He opened one palm and licked the skin. She trembled at his ardor.
“She wants, she deserves, more than I can give her.”
“Sometimes,” she ventured, caught between desire and propriety, “love can grant more to a relationship than circumstances provide.” She had no knowledge of that, no understanding. She had heard it whispered among her childhood friends in Crawford’s school, or read of it in books that were in essence fairytales for adults.
He hooded his eyes as he bent and nipped the pad of one thumb, then the other. His lips stirred fresh, hot hunger in her blood.
She threw back her head, her eyes squeezed shut. “Please stop.”
He circled her waist with both arms and pulled her against him. His lips in her hair, he whispered, “I can’t.”
’Twas then she threw all caution to the windy afternoon, reached up, and caught his cheeks. Sliding up against the bulwark of his fabulous body, she put her lips to his.
No man had she ever kissed. She knew not how, exactly. But in that moment, instinct was her guide and she took his lips, parted from him, and took them again. He groaned and crushed his mouth on hers. Heaven, at once, appeared before her.
He was fierce in his claim. Ravenous. His arms were iron, his lips a brand, his tongue a fierce probe she met with a cry of delight. He’d said he was not married. He was gentle, persuasive—an animal who took and gave. He’d said he could not marry because the one he desired was so different. But in the command of his kiss, the claim of his tongue, the groan from his throat, he declared how he wanted her.
She believed him. His fierce possession of her. His words.
And she let him have her. All of her. Her lips, her teeth, her heart. How could he not want to claim her? She wanted all of him!
He broke their kiss.
She gasped for air and marveled at the look on his face.
He was enchanted—torn and furious. He cupped her shoulders. His voice a rasp, he said, “I must go.”
Dazed, she let him steady her on her feet. Insulted, heartbroken, she fought for sanity. He would leave her? After this? Was he a fool?
Lie Down With A Lyon: Lyon’s Den Connected World By Cerise Deland Releases April 30th Preorder for $0.99
He loved her from the moment he saw her… but she was his enemy’s daughter.
Dáire O’Neill never expected to fall in love—especially not with the daughter of the man who ruined his family. But one chance encounter with Blanche changes everything. Her kindness, her laughter, her strength… He’s utterly smitten.
Yet, bound by honor and pride, Dáire refuses to court her. Their friendship is the most he can allow himself.
Blanche Lyon has worked tirelessly to distance herself from her father’s sordid legacy. With a thriving business and a spotless reputation, she dreams of a future filled with stability—and maybe even love. When the man she secretly hoped would offer for her stays silent, she turns to Mrs. Dove-Lyon to find a husband.
But Blanche’s father has other plans—and the man he’s chosen will ruin everything she’s built.
Dáire knows he can’t have Blanche… but he also can’t let her be sacrificed to a future she doesn’t deserve. To save her, he must break his own heart—and perhaps hers.
💔 He’ll never possess her, but he’ll set her free from everything she despises. Even him.
Cerise DeLand loves to write about dashing heroes and the sassy women they adore.
But you knew that!
Did you know that she’s known for her poetic elegance and accuracy of detail?
That she’s an award-winning author of more than 50 novels and was first published in 1991 by Kensington, then Pocket Book, later by St. Martin’s Press and independent presses? That her books have been monthly selections of the Doubleday Book Club and the Mystery Guild? Right. And she’s won awards. Lots of them. Need details? WREite to her. She’ll send you the list!
To research, she’s dived into the oldest texts and dustiest library shelves. She also travels abroad, trusty notebook and pen in hand, to visit the chateaux and country homes she loves to people with her own imaginary characters.
And at home every day? She cooks. Never dusts. Goes swimming or pumps iron once a week and tries (desperately) to grow vegetables in her arid backyard in south Texas! She’s valiant. And dedicated.
Welcome to my First Kiss Friday bog. We’re thrilled you can join us today. Today’s guest is Deb Marlowe who a first kiss scene between Niall Kier and Kara Levett, the two main characters in her Kier and Levett Mystery Series—Victorian Mysteries with a Slow Burn Romance. Deb is also offering a giveaway so be sure to read all the way to the end. Leave a comment to be in the running and enjoy this excerpt. Happy reading, my lovelies, and good luck!
Excerpt:
When they pulled up before the house, Niall craned to look out, but there was no sign of Turner or any of the other servants. The hour must be late indeed. Gently, he reached out to wake Kara.
She came awake slowly. Turning her head, her eyes opened. She caught sight of him and gave a sleepy, contented smile.
It made his heart twist painfully.
The bond of their friendship ran deep. How much better might it be, if he were he free to take it further? What might it be like, to open his eyes every morning to that smile? To know the day ahead—all the days ahead—would be full of her wit and laughter and talent and beauty?
He longed to find out. And his urge to follow that thread was growing as strong as the worries that prevented it.
He climbed down and turned to assist her. The bracing night air prodded her awake, although she gave a great yawn that left him smiling.
She squeezed his hand. The carriage moved on, heading for the stables. They stood alone in the dark, with the sky full of the sparkling beauty of a multitude of stars and his heart full of conflicting emotions.
“Thank you, Niall.”
It was thanks offered for more than his help out of the carriage. He heard the breadth of her meaning in her tone.
He smiled in answer, returned the squeeze and let her go.
With a sigh, she began to move toward the house. He watched her for a moment, before turning toward his forge and the loft above.
The sound of her footsteps in the gravel stopped.
“Niall?”
He turned around. She faced him, her hair coming down a little on one side and wafting in the night breeze. He drank in the beauty of her. She was a mad combination of exuberance, stubborn determination, extraordinary vision and the lovely sweetness of her soul. It almost hurt to look at her.
And suddenly, she was moving. Lifting her skirts and racing toward him. As she drew closer, she let go and reached out—and leapt into his arms.
He caught her. Staggered back a step. And her lips were on his and he was lost.
Her fingers were in his hair. Her legs wrapped around his waist. He braced one hand across her back to hold her close and the other beneath the curve of her bottom, to keep her, high and hot and pressed against him, with her mouth locked to his.
She’d gone soft and pliant. Need sprang to heated life in his chest and he felt the answering sensation in her. Together, their longings rose and combined, whirling between them, spiraling higher and fueling the fervent, dangerous beauty of their kiss.
She was inexperienced. He showed her subtly, delicately, how it was done. An enthusiastic pupil, she let him coax her mouth open. Their embrace deepened, transforming this encounter into something more demanding and desperate. Something that fought and railed against the cold knowledge of its fleeting nature.
She moaned, a low sound of aching want, and he clutched her closer still, wishing he could pull her right inside, so that this might never end.
But end, it did. She pulled away and looked down at him, her face filled with sorrow. Slowly, he let her drop, felt the forbidden slide of her down the front of him. But he could not let go, not yet. He bent his head so that their lips hovered close.
“I wanted to know,” she whispered. “When you are long gone and I am lying awake, making myself miserable with what might have been, I want to know exactly what I will be missing.” She ducked her head, pressing against his chest and gripping him tightly for a moment, before looking back up, her expression gone stern. “Perhaps I wanted you to know, too.”
She whirled, then, and was gone, running for the house.
Links:
The Kier and Levett Mysteries take place in Victorian London. Miss Kara Levett is an artist and creator of automatons and case clocks. Niall Kier is a forge artist from the Highlands with secrets in his past. Follow them to Victorian London as they explore art, science, their own romance . . . and murder.
USA Today Bestselling Author Deb Marlowe grew up with her nose in a book. Luckily, she’d read enough romances to recognize the hero she met at a college Halloween party—even though he wore a tuxedo t-shirt instead of breeches and boots. They married, settled in North Carolina and raised two handsome, funny, and genuinely intelligent boys.
A Golden Heart winner and Rita Nominee, Deb writes Victorian Mysteries, Regency Romance and Regency Fantasy Romance. A proud geek, history buff, and story addict, she loves to talk with readers! Find her discussing books, movies, TV, recipes and Men in Boots on Facebook, Instagram, BlueSky and Pinterest.
Deb will give away an autographed copy of A Killer in the Crystal Palace and some fun Kier and Levett swag. Just comment and tell us: If you could be a professional artist, what kind of art would you create?
Giveaway open through the weekend. Winner chosen on Monday!
Busiest and Least Crowded National Parks of 2021Karen Barnett2022-07-14T22:31:59-07:00
The entire year of 2021 seemed crazy and unpredictable, but millions of people still looked for solace in nature, leading to some seriously crowded national parks. Are you curious which ones were the busiest? Which were the least visited? You might be able to avoid the crowds this summer, if you’re willing to trek to the Arctic, that is. Who’s up for an adventure? I’ve heard it’s stunningly beautiful!
(These numbers are brought to you by the National Park Service, and I’m only including those NPS units officially classified as national parks, not monuments or other types of sites. The most visited site of all was actually the Blue Ridge Parkway at 15.9 million visits. Yikes!)
Did any of these surprise you? I’m trying to figure out why Washington’s North Cascades National Park has such low visitation. That’s one I’ve always wanted to see, and it only takes a few hours to drive there from Seattle. My family is hoping to visit this summer–so we’ll add a few numbers to their count for 2022.
So, which of the national parks would you most like to visit this year?
Happy Birthday, NPS! Book GiveawayKaren Barnett2022-08-25T13:42:10-07:00
The National Park Service was established on August 25, 1916, when President Woodrow Wilson signed the Organic Act. Now, 106 years later, our nation’s park rangers are still going strong. It was a huge honor for me to wear the green and gray uniform when I worked for the NPS back in the… well, a long time ago. Let’s celebrate with a book giveaway! You can enter using the form below. The grand prize winner will receive a signed copy of my newest national park novel, When Stone Wings Fly: A Great Smoky Mountains Novel. Three runners-up will each receive three (random) packets of national park loose-leaf tea blends designed by Simpson & Vail Teas, enough to make 18-24 cups of tea. It might not be the same packets/parks you see in the photo.
Entrants must be over the age of 18 and have a US mailing address (sorry international friends!). The contest will close September 1, 2022 at 12:00 pm.
As C.S. Lewis said, “You can never get a cup of tea large enough or a book long enough to suit me.”
my most recent book, When Stone Wings Fly, and my three other national park novels.
My publisher took notice. And because you made your voices heard (loudly!), I’ve been given a contract with Kregel Publications for two more novels set in our beautiful national parks.
The first of the books won’t release until 2024, but I think it will be worth the wait. This dual-timeline novel will feature two key eras in the history of Redwood National Park
My working title is Standing Tall (but that will probably change).
Here’s (loosely) what it’s about:
In 1972, June is proud to take her place as a ranger in the newly established Redwood National Park, especially since her aunt played a key role in saving these groves of giant trees. June’s doing her best to hide her disability–a result of childhood polio–but learns she may not be the only one harboring a secret. When she discovers Aunt Marion’s celebrated past may have come at a high cost, June has to decide which is more important–keeping up appearances or revealing the truth.
When Stone Wings Fly was chosen as a finalist in both the FOREWORD Indies awards and the Selah awards. Wow!
We should celebrate! How about a giveaway?
Since all of you participated in making this happen, I really want to give something back. I’m already thinking of ways I can thank ALL of you–like mailing out RangerBear stickers or national park postcards. But I still have some logistics to work out.
So, for right now, I’m going to do a single big giveaway.
Enter to win a pack of national park goodies, including a copy of When Stone Wings Fly (or one of my other park books, if you prefer), a box of national park tea blends from Simpson & Vail, and a 20 ounce tumbler decorated with photos from your favorite national parks. I made the tumblers myself, by the way! Sublimation printing is a new hobby of mine. [Small print: Only adults 18+ can enter, must have a valid US mailing address, void where prohibited.]
Sound good? Enter below. You’ll get bonus entries for signing up for my newsletter and for tweeting about the giveaway. If you are already a newsletter subscriber, you can always renew your subscription.
You’ll never know how much I appreciate your interest in my books. I’d love to keep new national park novels coming. So thank you for everything you’ve done to keep the adventure going.
Every national park has its own unique spirit and will impact visitors in different ways. Redwood National and State Parks? They will change you–almost down to the core of your being. My 21-year-old daughter and I visited recently for book research and to try out our new camper van. As I stared up at the ancient and giant trees, I was suddenly aware that the 50-odd years I’ve spent on this planet were but a tiny blip in the lifetime of these gentle giants. Even so, I felt welcomed. Does that sound strange? Maybe so, but I’m not sure how else to describe it.
Here are some of our favorite things we saw in Redwood National and State Parks.
Photo by Karen Barnett
Trees
Well, duh, right? The trees dwarfed everything else–both literally and figuratively. For the five days we were there, we found ourselves routinely pointing out trees to each other. “Look at THAT one!” You’d think it would get old, but it really doesn’t.
Photo by Karen Barnett
Gigantic ferns and trilliums
We were starting to understand the references to Paul Bunyan. Seriously, they grow things ridiculously large in California. The photo shows a well-named “Giant Trillium: (Trillium chloropetalum) with my hand for reference. In my home state of Oregon, we usually see Trillium ovatum which is about 1/3 this size.
Photo by Karen Barnett
Banana slugs and other crawly things.
After the first few hours of hiking, we finally started looking down as well as up. That’s when we spotted some really cool wildlife in the understory. Banana slugs, Pacific sideband snails, beaded lancetooth snails, and tons of yellow-spotted millipedes.
Photo by Karen Barnett
Elk and deer
So. Many. Elk. We enjoyed seeing elk wandering around our campground (we stayed at a nearby RV park since the state park campgrounds were full) and then seeing many more of them grazing in a meadow at Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park. While we were observing the elk herd, a large number of black-tailed deer came out to graze in the meadow as well.
Creative Commons Photo, Richard A. Walker
References to Indigenous Peoples
I was impressed by the number of signs paying honor to the local indigenous peoples. The National Park Service doesn’t have a stellar reputation when it comes to its treatment of tribes, but it looks like the current administration of Redwood National and State Parks is making some positive changes. Nearly every building had a sign explaining the names native tribes use to refer to specific locations. My daughter and I also noticed that when displays discussed indigenous tribes, they used present-tense verbs. It’s a subtle difference, but when you write about tribes using only the past tense, you’re planting the idea that they no longer exist (or at least, no longer play an active role). By using the present tense, you’re recognizing that the indigenous people are still here! This type of wording can make a big difference in how visitors think about the situation. I did get a sense that the parks were coordinating their work with several of the local tribes.
What we took home
How does that saying go? Take only memories, leave only footprints? We’re taking home a lot of memories from our time in the Redwoods–specifically, a sense of our place in the world. I’ve been reading a lot about the history of logging and conservation in this region. But as I laid my hand on the bark of one specific tree and stared up at its impossibly-tall trunk, I thought, are we really caretakers of these trees? Were the Yurok and Tolowa before us? This tree has stood here for as many as 1500 years. With any luck, it might stand for hundreds of more years. That’s a humbling thought. I’m thankful that I got to stand at its base and contemplate my place in God’s intricate creation.
There’s something deeply grounding about stepping into a national park—the hush in the canyons, the scent of sun-warmed trees, the sound of birds calling from beyond the bend in the trail. It’s where many of us go to breathe a little deeper and to appreciate the gift of God’s creation.
But if you’re planning a trip in 2025, you may be worried that things will look a little different. Staffing is down in many parks. Visitor numbers are still high. Services that used to be a given might not be available. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t go—quite the opposite, really. With a little extra preparation and a healthy dose of grace, you can still experience the wonder that drew you there in the first place.
Here’s how to plan ahead and visit with both wisdom and wonder in your pack.
1. Do Your Research Before You Go
In years past, you might have strolled into a visitor center and picked up a paper map, chatted with a ranger about trail conditions, or signed up for a program. With lower staffing, those luxuries might not be available.
Before you leave home:
Visit the park’s official website for current conditions, alerts, and any reservation requirements.
Download trail maps and directions—you can’t count on cell service.
Look into apps like AllTrails or the NPS app to cache your route.
If it’s your first time to that park, read up a bit. A well-loved guidebook or a ranger-led YouTube talk can add layers of meaning to your adventure.
2. Expect Limited Services
With fewer hands on deck, you might find closed restrooms, limited hours at visitor centers, and fewer trash pickups. It’s not ideal, but it’s manageable if you plan ahead.
What to bring:
Your own water, snacks, and lunch (just watch out for the ravens and chipmunks—they’re clever).
A small bag to pack out your own trash.
Extra toilet paper and hand sanitizer for backcountry or vault restrooms.
A little preparation here can turn a frustrating moment into just another story for the campfire.
3. Be Your Own Naturalist
While ranger talks and junior ranger programs might be on hold or scaled back, that doesn’t mean you can’t dive deep into the natural world around you. In fact, learning on your own might make it feel even more personal.
Bring along:
A field guide or plant ID app
A nature journal (even a pocket notebook will do)
Curiosity, always
Let the forest be your teacher. Let your questions lead you.
Podcasts and audiobooks about your park can also make for great pre-trip or on-the-road listening. You might even want to check out Guide Along, which offers audio tours for various parks via your phone. We really enjoyed the Yellowstone one on our last trip.
4. Stick to Designated Trails
Trails are the threads that weave us safely through wild spaces. And in times of low staffing, it’s harder for rangers to keep an eye on fragile habitats and off-trail wanderers.
Staying on marked paths:
Protects delicate plant life
Keeps you safe from hidden hazards
Makes it easier for search and rescue to find you—if that need ever arises
Remember: your footprints matter.
5. Pack Your Patience
You may wait a little longer at the entrance gate. You might find the shuttle bus full or the trail a little more crowded than expected. And you might not see a single ranger on your entire visit.
But you’re still there. Among the trees, beside the river, under the open sky. That’s the gift.
When things get frustrating, take a deep breath and offer grace—to others, to the park staff doing their best, and even to yourself
6. Essentials for your 2025 Adventures
Here’s a quick checklist to help you feel confident and prepared:
Reusable water bottle
Layers for shifting weather
Trail map (downloaded or paper)
Snacks and a meal
First aid kit
Flashlight or headlamp
Small trash bag
Sunscreen, bug spray, hat
An open heart
✅ Bonus: Bring an extra map and share it if you see someone looking lost.
7. Seek the Quiet Moments
While the crowds gather at famous overlooks, try a lesser-known trail, a picnic by a creek, or a sunrise walk through the trees.
It’s in those quiet, unscripted moments when you’ll discover a park’s unexpected blessings.
Final Thoughts
Things might look a little different for our national parks in 2025, but the trails are still calling, the trees are still standing, and the parks are still worth the effort. With a little preparation and a good attitude, you’ll walk away with something unforgettable.
Curious which parks show up in my stories? Browse my collection of national park novels and see where the trails take you!
