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First Kiss Friday with C.H. Admirand & a Giveaway! – Sherry Ewing

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Welcome to my First Kiss Friday blog. I’m so happy to have you here with us today including my friend and guest C.H. Admirand. C.H. has an excerpt from her new release The Duke’s Lance! We hope you enjoy this first kiss scene and be sure to read all the way to the end to learn about her giveaway! Happy reading, my lovelies.

Excerpt:

She struggled to her feet, braced a hand to the wall, and dug deep to ignore the tearing pain shooting through her wrist. Biting her lip, she put distance between herself and where her captor and the auburn-haired member of the duke’s guard fought. Would he set her free? With her back to the wall, she inched her way to the other window, stumbling twice, but catching herself before she fell. Her half boots crunched on the broken glass in counterpoint to the sound of flesh pounding flesh. Finally, she felt the edge of the window frame. Her prayer of thanks was cut off when strong hands wrapped around her waist and pulled her backward through the window!

“Ye’re safe now, lass.”

The voice she’d never thought to hear again soothed her jagged nerves. She was spun around until she could look into the eyes of her rescuer. “O’Malley! How did you find me?”

He brushed a lock of hair out of her eyes and gently took hold of her hands, swearing when she cried out in pain. “Where are ye hurt, lass?”

“Please, don’t leave me here?”

“I did not come all this way just to leave ye behind, lass. Where are ye hurt?”

Helen didn’t answer him fast enough. He grabbed hold of her wrists, and she groaned.

“Forgive me, lass, but if ye’d have answered me…” He gentled his hold on her. “Which wrist?”

“The right one.”

“Is that yer only injury?” She shook her head and moaned, while he frowned. “Where else?”

“My chin aches, and the side of my face stings.”

He gently cupped her face and studied her closely. “Ye’ve a few cuts and scrapes, nothing deep.” Helen started to lift her hand, and O’Malley took hold of it. “Yer hands have a bit of dirt and grit on them—’tis best not to get any of that on yer face. Let’s get ye out of here. I’ve arranged for ye to be tended to.”

“How did you know where to find me?”

“There aren’t that many roads north to Flemington Gatehouse.” His expression darkened. “From the look of yer hands, and the disturbed dirt Flaherty and I found where ye tried to save yerself when ye tripped over that rock in the road, we guessed someone must have come up from behind ye.”

“How did you know? Were you there? If you were, why did you let him take me?”

“Ah, lass, did ye hit yer head then?”

“I don’t… No, I did not! I was grabbed from behind and a large hand covered my mouth and nose.”

O’Malley gritted his teeth, then cleared his throat to speak. “Could be the terror of what happened that has ye rattled, lass. Ye’re not thinking straight if ye believe that of me. I was not there, and I never would let any blackguard abduct ye.” He reached into his frockcoat pocket and pulled out a black cloth. “Easy now, while I wrap this around your poor wrist.”

“Is that a cravat?”

“Aye, the lads and I carry spares—they’re handy for binding wounds, or tying a blackguard’s hands together.” He trailed the tip of his finger along the line of her jaw and tapped her chin. “’Twill only take a moment. If it helps, close yer faery eyes, lass.”

She did without hesitation, trusting him, while he immobilized the joint with the cravat. She could not hide her wince of pain as he fastened the knot. “I’m sorry to cause ye discomfort, but we need to ensure that if yer wrist bones are cracked, or broken, that they don’t shift out of place.” He lifted her in his arms and carried her over to a fallen tree…a distance away from the building. Setting her on it, he warned, “I’ll try not to hurt ye, but I need to fashion a sling for ye, and I need both hands to do that.”

She was silent as he moved her arm. “Hold it against yer waist for a moment. There’s a lass. I’ve already used me spare, and will have to use the one I’m wearing. I hope ye don’t mind.” Helen watched as he removed the cloth from around his neck and explained, “I’m going to slide a corner of me cravat under yer arm now.” He paused and told her, “I’m not after startling ye, lass, but I cannot fashion a knot behind yer neck without moving the hair that slipped from its pins.”

She lost the ability to speak, positively mesmerized by the intensity in his eyes and the sight of his strong neck. She nodded.

“I need to pull ye closer, lass, otherwise I may bump yer wrist, which I do not want to do. May I?”

Her gaze locked on his, and this time she answered, “Yes.”

Helen could not look away from the width of his neck and muscles of his throat.

His voice rough, he grumbled, “Ye’d best stop looking at me like that, lass. ’Tis not the time or place to be thinking what ye’re thinking.”

She licked her dry lips. Even in the waning light, she could see that his eyes had darkened. “How do you know what I am thinking?”

“Ah, sweet Helen, ye’re innocent to be sure if ye’re asking me that. I’ll kiss ye senseless once I tie off this knot. Mayhap it’ll satisfy yer curiosity until Flaherty and I deliver ye to Widow Dawson.”

Confused, she wondered if the widow was a close friend of O’Malley’s. She had heard that some bachelors preferred forming an attachment with a widow rather than an unmarried woman. The thought of him with another woman had her rubbing the ache in her heart.

“Are ye feeling pain in yer chest?”

The concern and intensity of his gaze had her answering honestly. “I am.”

“How long has it been happening?” She didn’t answer quickly enough. He took hold of her arms and pulled her closer. “Yer heart may be reacting to yer fear, but it could be something more serious, lass. Answer me question!”

Unable to control the reaction she always had whenever she was worried, she bit her bottom lip.

“God in Heaven, lass. Don’t be biting yer lip now!”

It was then that it hit her… O’Malley was not just worried about her. He cared for her…mayhap even deeply! “Which would you have me do first, answer your question or stop biting my lip?”He scooped her into his arms, stared deeply into her eyes, and lowered his mouth toward hers. His lips hovered over hers for a heartbeat. With a moan, he took her mouth in a possessive, devastating kiss that numbed her body from head to toe. The last thing she remembered was the wondrous thought that O’Malley had indeed kissed her senseless.

The Duke’s Lance (Book 12)
By C.H. Admirand

“Who in the world would marry me, just to ensure that I stayed at Wyndmere Hall?”
“That would be me, lass.”

The winsome, ebony-haired lass with the violet faery-eyes captures O’Malley’s heart when she steps down from the carriage, but it is the ugly dark bruise on her cheek that has his protective instincts offering his strength and the protection of his name.

O’Malley’s stubborn pride takes a hit when the lass thanks him, but refuses his offer.

Helen Langley accompanied her mistress, the duke’s ward Emily, to Wyndmere Hall after a perilous journey from London. The broad-shouldered, green-eyed, handsome giant barely knows her, yet offers her marriage.

Helen cannot accept O’Malley’s offer, her past could ruin their future!

O’Malley is willing to wait when she leaves for the Borderlands intent on securing a position as a companion. But the man who murdered Emily’s father has Helen in his sights and follows her. When she is abducted-twice-Helen must decide whether to trust O’Malley and accept his offer, or keep her past hidden and live with the pain of her broken heart for the rest of her life.

Danger stalks in the night, but it will have to get past The Duke’s Lance before he will let harm come to those he has sworn to protect with his strength, his honor, and his heart.

Buy Links:

Amazon US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DY2XZ3J6
https://www.amazon.com/Dukes-Lance-Regency-Historical-Romance/dp/1967169047

Amazon UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0DY2XZ3J6
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Dukes-Lance-Regency-Historical-Romance/dp/1967169047

Amazon AU: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B0DY2XZ3J6
https://www.amazon.com.au/Dukes-Lance-Regency-Historical-Romance/dp/1967169047

Amazon CA: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0DY2XZ3J6
https://www.amazon.ca/Dukes-Lance-Regency-Historical-Romance/dp/1967169047

About the Author:

If we have not met yet, I’m delighted to meet you! Here’s a little bit about me…

I have been writing romance novels for almost half my life, well at least for the last 30 years. I’m a diehard romantic and have to confess the broad shoulders and wicked glint in the brilliant green eyes of a stranger had my breath snagging in my breast, my heart beating madly, and my future flashing before my eyes. At the age of seventeen, I’d met the man I knew I was going to spend the rest of my life with.

I write Historical & Contemporary Romance featuring characters that I know so well: hardheaded heroes and feisty heroines! They rarely listen to me and in fact, I think they enjoy messing with my plans for them. Over the years I have learned to listen to them! I have always used family names in my books and love adding bits and pieces of my ancestors and ancestry in them, too!

C.H.’s Social Media Links:

Website:

https://www.chadmirand.com

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/C.-H.-Admirand/author/B001JPBUMC

BookBub:

https://www.bookbub.com/authors/c-h-admirand

Facebook Author Page:

https://www.facebook.com/CHAdmirandAuthor

GoodReads:

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/212657.C_H_Admirand

Dragonblade Publishing: https://www.dragonbladepublishing.com/team/c-h-admirand/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/c.h.admirand

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRSXBeqEY52VV3mHdtg5fXw

Giveaway Opportunity!

C.H. Admirand is giving away the e-book copy of The Duke’s Lance or winner’s choice from her website. The first day of Spring happened last week. Bring on the warmer weather! To be in the running for her giveaway, tell us something about he Spring Season you look forward to. C.H. will leave this giveaway open through the weekend and a winner will be selected on Monday. Good luck, everyone, and thanks for stopping by. Good luck!

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می 21, 2025
Christmas Eve in Regency England

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One of our family traditions is to decorate the day after Thanksgiving, unless we’re out of town, and no later than the first Saturday in December. We like to enjoy the decorations for as long as possible. Our decorations include lights, inside and out, artificial garlands, nutcrackers, angels, Santas, and lots of nativity scenes as well as a large, artificial, pre-lit tree decorated with blue, silver, and gold balls, and a few sentimental pieces I’ve been given or purchased at memorable events such as the Nutcracker Ballet. Christmas Eve, we focus on the miraculous birth of the baby Jesus. Christmas Eve traditions in Regency England were very different. Like today, English Regency traditions depended on the area and family preferences. Still, many wide-spread English traditions have ancient origins.

Greenery

Photo credit; tomas-williams-nT8hZNpTN_4-unsplash

Dating back at least as far as the dark ages, people in nearly every cottage, hut, and castle decorated their homes with all manner of evergreens on Christmas Eve. These evergreens included holly, ivy, laurel, hawthorne, and hellebore (Christmas rose). Wreaths, garlands, and boughs adorned every surface and corner. Leaving them up until Twelfth Night or Epiphany, which is January 6, supposedly brought good luck in the coming year.

Photo by Clement BB on Unsplash

Mistletoe

A distinctively English tradition, the kissing ball or kissing bunch is made up of thin wooden hoops fastened together, decorated with mistletoe and other greenery; herbs including rosemary and bay leaves; and even fruit such as apples or oranges. Ribbons often adorned these balls.

If a gentleman found a lady under the kissing bough, he could kiss her without censure. After the kiss, he plucked a berry from the mistletoe. Once all the berries had been picked, all such privileges ceased. If the object of his kiss happened to be a servant, he also gave her a coin as a courtesy. Some maids may have deliberately lingered under the mistletoe ball to earn a few extra coins.

A variation of the kissing ball is the holy bough. Inside were beautifully-made paper dolls representing Mary, Joseph, and the infant Christ child. The holy bough might also be adorned with greenery, herbs, and fruit similar to the kissing bough.

Photo by Nanna Moilanen on Unsplash

The Yule Log

This custom comes to us from the Vikings. For years, “yule” was a term used mostly in Northern England due to its Norse roots, but eventually the name and custom spread all over Europe. Traditionally, families burned the log for the entire twelve days of Christmas. For that, one needed a big hearth and a big log. The choice of a yule log was supposed to be specific and felled that day from the nearby forest, although folklore mentions a tree root. Once the log searchers found a suitable prize, they wrapped it in hazel twigs and it dragged in an impromptu parade home, sometimes with the aid of a team of farm hands or using horses. They then lit the new log with a lump of charcoal or ashes saved from the previous year’s Yule Log. This tradition erased all mistakes and faults from the current year and brought in the new year with a clean slate. It also supposedly brought protection from evil and prosperity to the household.

Family Time Christmas Eve

After spending all day decorating and bringing home the Yule log, some families had their most distinctive feast on Christmas Eve. Other families had their Christmas fest on Christmas Day. Many families played games or danced until the church bells rang, calling them to the midnight service.

Christmas Candle

Also known as the Yule Candle, this large candle stood at the head of the dining table and the head of the household lit it at sunset. Once placed, this candle was never moved nor allowed to burn out or be blown out for 24 hours. If it couldn’t last, the head of the household snuffed out and lit a new one. By the Yule candle’s light, an even number of people sat down to the meal at the same time. At the meal’s conclusion, the diners must all leave the table together. Failing to perform any of these could bring dire consequences to the household, even potential death. If treated properly, the Yule candle brought good luck, healing, and protection. As you can see, many English Christian customs retained elements of ancient pagan superstitions.

Christmas Feast

This sumptuous meal boasted any number of meats including roast beef, roast goose, brawn, fish, poultry, and boar’s head. Usually, the boar’s head with an apple stuffed in its mouth took the spotlight. It was carried into the dining room with much ceremony including singing. Other Christmas dishes might include Yorkshire pudding, mincemeat pie, and plenty of breads.

Sweet dishes included elaborately molded jellies, sugar cake or shortbread, trifles, rice puddings, plum pudding, apple dumplings, marzipan, and fruit cake.

Country church, copyright Donna Hatch

Christmas Eve Church Service

To this day, church bells ring on Christmas Eve in every English village to call the faithful to services. Both members of the Church of England and Catholics could attend midnight mass. Christmas Eve service began with a parade of sorts. While singing carols, children dressed as camels, donkeys, wise men, and other characters from the bible story and walked toward the altar where Joseph and the Virgin Mary waited with an empty manger. A young person carried a doll representing the infant Jesus and placed Baby Jesus into the manger. Holy Mass began with the choir singing.

The 1848 engraving of the royal family decorating a tree.
HULTON ARCHIVE//GETTY IMAGES

Christmas Trees

Queen Charlotte, a German Princess who married King George III, introduced her German custom of a decorated Yew branch in 1799. The next year, she placed a full-size, decorated tree in the main room in Windsor Castle. Some sources say the members of court and upper classes adopted the Christmas tree in their own family Christmas celebrations, but most agree that the Christmas tree didn’t become a widely-established tradition in England until later. In 1840, Prince Albert, also of Germany, married Queen Victoria and in 1848, an engraving of the Royal Family celebrating Christmas at Windsor was published in the newspaper which showed Victoria and Albert standing with their children around a Christmas tree. Since the English adored Queen Victoria, and that year’s royal celebration was so widely known, the general populace adopted the custom of a Christmas tree with ornaments. By the 1850’s, every drawing room in England had a Christmas Tree.

However, most people living in the Regency Era had not yet heard about Christmas trees or began including them in their decorations.

St Nicholas?

Hanging stockings for old Saint Nick had not yet become a custom in England. For that, we must wait for the Victorian Era.

Which of these historical customs have made their way into your family celebration?

Many of these traditions are featured in my Christmas romances, pictured below. All are on Amazon Kindle and most are in also print. (Links are below)

“A Christmas Reunion” https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00OFAVKBY
“Mistletoe Magic” https://www.amazon.com/dp/B006MI3M36
“A Winter’s Knight” https://www.amazon.com/dp/B018YCCQ6G
Christmas Secrets https://www.amazon.com/dp/B076B6Z7GZ
Merry and Bright Regency Duet https://www.amazon.com/dp/170848888X

Sources:
Christmas Customs and Traditions, their history and significance by Clement A. Miles
Regency Christmas Traditions, A Jane Austen Christmas by Maria Grace
https://www.historytoday.com/archive/history-matters/first-christmas-tree
https://www.britannica.com/plant/Christmas-tree
https://www.regencyhistory.net/2012/12/did-they-have-christmas-trees-in-regency.html
https://www.allaboutjesuschrist.org/origin-of-the-christmas-tree-faq.htm

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می 20, 2025
A Special SALE just for you through May 20th! – Sherry Ewing

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I’m heading to the fabulous Book Lovers Con in Las Vegas that starts on Thursday and you get to reap the benefits too!

Love a Regency with romantic suspense? My novel, Nothing But Time: A Family of Worth (Book One), is just what you need and it’s on sale for #FREE. How about a medieval romance with an unrequited love story? A Knight to Call My Own: The MacLarens (Book Two) has a hero that will become your next book boyfriend and its only $0.99! And last but not least, everyone loves a medieval/time travel and To Follow My Heart: The Knights of Berwyck, A Quest Through Time (Book Three) will take you on a trip through time and back again. It’s also on sale for only $0.99.

Hurry… this sale last only until May 20^th. Grab your copies now and happy reading, my lovelies!

Find the buy links for all three of these page turning novels at the tabs above or here:

Nothing But Time: https://sherryewing.com/regency-books/nothing-but-time/
A Knight To Call My Own: https://sherryewing.com/medieval-time-travel/a-knight-to-call-my-own/
To Follow My Heart: https://sherryewing.com/medieval-time-travel/to-follow-my-heart/

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می 19, 2025
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer – Donna Hatch

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An Excerpt by Donna Hatch, Regency Romance Author

Available on Amazon

Mrs. Hancock beamed as Alicia reached her side, put an arm around Alicia, and brought her into their circle. “Miss Alicia Palmer, allow me to introduce Lord Amesbury.”

Even more devastating up close, Lord Amesbury turned to her. His piercing blue eyes threatened the strength in her knees. Though taller than most ladies, Alicia still had to look up to meet his gaze. No other color existed in those eyes; no green or gray, only deep, dark blue, like the fathomless depths of the ocean.

All the other men she had met lately, namely those her uncle insisted she consider for a husband, had taken careful note of her figure. But this gentleman only looked into her eyes. Very deeply.

Lord Amesbury inclined his head. “Miss Palmer.” His resonant, bass voice touched her very soul.

Alicia met his frank gaze and a sensation she did not quite understand stirred within her until breathing became a conscious effort. Mrs. Hancock discreetly coughed, and Alicia realized she’d been locked in eye contact with the Viscount much longer than appropriate.

Unable to pull her eyes away, Alicia sank into a curtsey. “My lord.”

No longer merely polite, his smile broadened, warmed, transforming an already handsome face into a perfectly stunning visage. Sensuality radiated off him, not in a manner that left her feeling threatened, but in a way that left her breathless for more. More of what, she did not know. But she wanted to find out.

“Miss Palmer,” Lord Amesbury said, “May I have the next dance?”

Alicia blinked. She looked back at Elizabeth who smiled encouragingly. Mrs. Hancock also smiled and nodded, but a touch of disappointment tainted her approval, reminding Alicia the dear lady had hoped her own daughter would attract the attention of the very eligible Lord Amesbury. That he’d singled out Alicia seemed a dream.

She squelched all hope that she might hold his interest. Surely only politeness motivated him to dance with the plainest girl first. He’d soon turn his attention to the beautiful ladies.

Finding her voice, Alicia replied, “I would be delighted, my lord.”

As the final notes of the current dance ended and the next began, Lord Amesbury offered his arm. She took it, an unfamiliar quiver beginning in her stomach. The art of dancing, she found as the set began, had not abandoned her as completely as her wits. The handsome viscount danced with athletic grace, his attention focused upon her. The warmth of his hand seeped through their kidskin gloves. He held her gently, firmly.

A playful glint touched his sapphire eyes. “I must warn you. Now that we’ve danced, my aunt will take it upon herself to ask you your opinion of me. She will most certainly interrogate me regarding you.”

She met those probing eyes and her mouth curved. “Oh? Has your aunt become your self-proclaimed matchmaker?”

A wry smile touched his lips. “Of course. I’m thirty and not yet married. She feels it her duty to ensure I produce an heir before I’m too old. Despite my efforts to delay that obligation, she persists.”

Alicia nodded, her smile deepening at his indelicate statement. “That is a dilemma.”

“Since you and I have only just met, it will be difficult to offer a fair assessment of your character. And if I say anything positive about you, she’ll plan the wedding.” His smile brightened, lighting up his stunning face.

Alicia missed her step. Even while dancing with the very handsome Duke of Suttenberg two Seasons ago, such a keen attraction for a man had never overcome her as it did tonight. Yet she was nearly twenty, for heaven’s sake, not a missish schoolgirl!

“Your aunt is a strong woman and a kind lady, my lord. I am sure you can reason with her.”

“I suppose she possesses a good heart deep, deep down inside, but be truthful; she’s sharp-tongued and outspoken.”

She laughed and then clapped her hand over her mouth. “My lord! She might hear you.”

He chuckled. “Fear not. We needle each other as frequently as possible. I say worse things to her face. I enjoy watching her squirm and plot a counter- attack.”

That reminded her of the playful banter she shared with her cousin Robert. “I don’t recall her ever mentioning you, my lord.”

His smile turned self-deprecating. “I’m one of those relations no one mentions.”

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می 18, 2025
First Kiss Friday with Ruth A. Casie – Sherry Ewing

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Welcome to my First Kiss Friday blog. It’s always a pleasure when I can have my dear friend Ruth A. Casie on my blog. Take it away, Ruth, and happy reading, my lovelies!

A Kiss Measured in Heartbeats: A First Kiss from A Dilemma for the Duke
By Ruth A. Casie

I’m delighted to return to First Kiss Friday. Thank you, Sherry, for having me again! Today’s kiss comes from A Dilemma for the Duke, the second book in my Barrington’s Brigade series.

This is a slow-burn, high-stakes Regency romance filled with stolen glances, secret identities, and a romance that simmers until it can no longer be denied.

Lady Lora Preston is intelligent, independent, and fiercely committed to social reform. Garrett, Duke Rockford, is a former soldier, disciplined, guarded, and loyal to a fault. He’s returned home on assignment to root out a dangerous conspiracy. She’s hiding the very secrets he’s meant to expose.What begins as a reluctant alliance deepens into something neither of them expected, something dangerous and undeniably real.

How Their First Kiss Came About

Lora and Rockford have known each other for years. But the man who has returned from war is different, quieter, more haunted, more restrained.

They’ve been working together uneasily to investigate a troubling pattern of coded messages and intercepted letters. With danger pressing in, they’ve grown close… but never crossed the line. Until now.

On a quiet evening, a conversation turns too honest. A long-held silence breaks. And in the stillness that follows, something shifts.

The First Kiss

“You’re not what I expected,” he said, voice low.

“Is that a compliment?” she asked, barely above a whisper.

His mouth curved slightly. “It’s a truth.”

She wanted to laugh, but something in his expression made her breath catch. He was rarely this bare, this unshielded. She felt the weight of everything they weren’t saying.

“You’re not exactly what I expected, either,” she replied softly. “You hide behind your title and your mission. But I see the man beneath.”

A long pause. Then, “And what do you see?”

She didn’t answer. Didn’t need to.

Instead, she reached up and touched his hand…just lightly, just enough to still him.

He didn’t move.

His fingers curled around hers slowly, deliberately, and he stepped closer.

When he kissed her, it was with reverence. A brush of lips that deepened, breath by breath, into something warm and sure. He kissed her like a man who had thought about this, wanted this, for far too long.

Her hands found his coat, clutching it like it was the only thing tethering her to the ground. She could feel the truth of it in her pulse, in his touch, in everything between them.

When they finally pulled apart, she looked up into his eyes. They were clear, steady, and searching.

“That was—” she began.

“A mistake?” he asked, gently.

She shook her head, a slow smile forming. “No. A beginning.”

About the Book

A Dilemma for the Duke

Book Two in Barrington’s Brigade

Lady Lora has spent years forging her independence through quiet rebellion, charitable work, and a secret identity that risks everything.

Duke Rockford’s duty is to protect the realm… and uncover a traitor who may be far closer than anyone suspects. But when suspicion falls on Lora, his heart and honor collide.

As danger draws nearer and deception deepens, Rockford and Lora must decide whether trust can be rebuilt and whether love is worth the risk.

This Regency romance is full of tension, secrets, and a love story that builds in the shadows. Perfect for fans of strong heroines, brooding dukes, and high-stakes historical intrigue.

Available now from Dragonblade Publishing

Read it in Kindle Unlimited!

So Far from Barrington’s Brigade

A Dilemma for the Duke is Book Two in my Barrington’s Brigade series, a collection of Regency romances following six titled men drawn back into danger after the war.

Each book is a complete romance, with overarching intrigue that ties the Brigade together.

Book One: A Marriage for the Marquess

A marriage of convenience, a game of hearts.

Ewan must wed to save his inheritance. Juliet needs a husband to escape scandal. Together, they must outwit a secret society before it destroys them both.

Available here

Book Two: A Dilemma for the Duke.

In the shadows of power, can love and truth prevail?

Rockford’s duty is to protect the realm. Lora’s secret identity may threaten everything he’s sworn to defend. But when danger strikes, will they choose trust or lose each other?

Read now

Book Three, A Redemption for the Baron (Coming, July 2025)

What began as a battle of wills became a fight for their hearts.

Another chance at love, another brush with danger, and another member of the Brigade who just might lose his heart.

A Soundtrack of the Story
Want to hear what inspired the mood of these romances?

After Dark captures the tension and intimacy of the story’s emotional heart.
Contemporary offers a modern echo of their journey.

A Marriage for the Marquess
After Dark Playlist | Contemporary Playlist

A Dilemma for the Duke
After Dark Playlist | Contemporary Playlist

About the Author
Ruth A. Casie writes stories of honor, adventure, and love, where strong heroines challenge equally strong heroes, and history hides a touch of mystery. She is the author of several beloved romance series, including Barrington’s Brigade and The Ladies of Sommer-by-the-Sea, and contributes to multiple historical romance worlds. When not writing, Ruth enjoys sipping tea, chasing plot twists, and immersing herself in the past.

Learn more at www.ruthacasie.com

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می 17, 2025
Food in Regency England – Luncheon or Nuncheon

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An Excerpt by Donna Hatch, Regency Romance Author

Available on Amazon

Mrs. Hancock beamed as Alicia reached her side, put an arm around Alicia, and brought her into their circle. “Miss Alicia Palmer, allow me to introduce Lord Amesbury.”

Even more devastating up close, Lord Amesbury turned to her. His piercing blue eyes threatened the strength in her knees. Though taller than most ladies, Alicia still had to look up to meet his gaze. No other color existed in those eyes; no green or gray, only deep, dark blue, like the fathomless depths of the ocean.

All the other men she had met lately, namely those her uncle insisted she consider for a husband, had taken careful note of her figure. But this gentleman only looked into her eyes. Very deeply.

Lord Amesbury inclined his head. “Miss Palmer.” His resonant, bass voice touched her very soul.

Alicia met his frank gaze and a sensation she did not quite understand stirred within her until breathing became a conscious effort. Mrs. Hancock discreetly coughed, and Alicia realized she’d been locked in eye contact with the Viscount much longer than appropriate.

Unable to pull her eyes away, Alicia sank into a curtsey. “My lord.”

No longer merely polite, his smile broadened, warmed, transforming an already handsome face into a perfectly stunning visage. Sensuality radiated off him, not in a manner that left her feeling threatened, but in a way that left her breathless for more. More of what, she did not know. But she wanted to find out.

“Miss Palmer,” Lord Amesbury said, “May I have the next dance?”

Alicia blinked. She looked back at Elizabeth who smiled encouragingly. Mrs. Hancock also smiled and nodded, but a touch of disappointment tainted her approval, reminding Alicia the dear lady had hoped her own daughter would attract the attention of the very eligible Lord Amesbury. That he’d singled out Alicia seemed a dream.

She squelched all hope that she might hold his interest. Surely only politeness motivated him to dance with the plainest girl first. He’d soon turn his attention to the beautiful ladies.

Finding her voice, Alicia replied, “I would be delighted, my lord.”

As the final notes of the current dance ended and the next began, Lord Amesbury offered his arm. She took it, an unfamiliar quiver beginning in her stomach. The art of dancing, she found as the set began, had not abandoned her as completely as her wits. The handsome viscount danced with athletic grace, his attention focused upon her. The warmth of his hand seeped through their kidskin gloves. He held her gently, firmly.

A playful glint touched his sapphire eyes. “I must warn you. Now that we’ve danced, my aunt will take it upon herself to ask you your opinion of me. She will most certainly interrogate me regarding you.”

She met those probing eyes and her mouth curved. “Oh? Has your aunt become your self-proclaimed matchmaker?”

A wry smile touched his lips. “Of course. I’m thirty and not yet married. She feels it her duty to ensure I produce an heir before I’m too old. Despite my efforts to delay that obligation, she persists.”

Alicia nodded, her smile deepening at his indelicate statement. “That is a dilemma.”

“Since you and I have only just met, it will be difficult to offer a fair assessment of your character. And if I say anything positive about you, she’ll plan the wedding.” His smile brightened, lighting up his stunning face.

Alicia missed her step. Even while dancing with the very handsome Duke of Suttenberg two Seasons ago, such a keen attraction for a man had never overcome her as it did tonight. Yet she was nearly twenty, for heaven’s sake, not a missish schoolgirl!

“Your aunt is a strong woman and a kind lady, my lord. I am sure you can reason with her.”

“I suppose she possesses a good heart deep, deep down inside, but be truthful; she’s sharp-tongued and outspoken.”

She laughed and then clapped her hand over her mouth. “My lord! She might hear you.”

He chuckled. “Fear not. We needle each other as frequently as possible. I say worse things to her face. I enjoy watching her squirm and plot a counter- attack.”

That reminded her of the playful banter she shared with her cousin Robert. “I don’t recall her ever mentioning you, my lord.”

His smile turned self-deprecating. “I’m one of those relations no one mentions.”

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می 16, 2025
Walking the Valley of of Death: Death Valley National Park

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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!

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می 15, 2025
Another catfishing sapphic fiction author

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I want to make one thing very clear because when the Adam Gaffen scandal happened, some transphobic people tried to blame trans people for what Adam had done. They equated all the lying and catfishing Adam had done with trans women writing sapphic fiction, and I strongly resent and reject that notion.

To the best of our knowledge, neither Adam nor Sean are trans.

We’ve combed all of Sean’s social media, and nothing points to him being anything but a cis man who deceived everyone about his identity by posting photos of a woman, claiming to be her. (By the way, I’m using he/him pronouns for Sean because that’s what he’s doing in his social media and blog).

In fact, in one of his blog posts, he makes a comment that is both misogynist and transphobic, so if he were trans, that would mean he has a lot of internalized transphobia to work through.

Of course, we can’t rule it out entirely. Only Sean can know for sure. Whether or not Sean is trans isn’t the issue, though.

The trans women who are part of our community as writers and readers are not deceiving anyone. They don’t claim to be women; they are women. For some, it might not be safe to be fully out, but none of them go around posting pictures of someone else and claiming that this is them. They live their lives as authentically as is possible while still trying to stay safe.

If Sean were trans, he would have every right to write sapphic fiction under a female pen name and to interact with people as a woman.

If he were struggling with his gender identity, I would have supported using his writing as a tool to explore it. I have friends who only through writing sapphic fiction came to understand that they are not as straight or not as cis as they assumed themselves to be. I think a lot of writers can empathize with that. My writing certainly helped me understand my own identity as a queer woman better too.

So I wholeheartedly embrace anyone who wants to write sapphic fiction, may they be straight or queer, cis or trans, male or female or nonbinary. I don’t want to gatekeep who gets to write sapphic fiction. I want the doors wide open and support everyone who loves sapphic fiction.

The only people I want to keep out are those preying on the community, those who think it’s fun to play games with people and build friendships based on lies and deception.

What Sean did went way beyond a writer possibly exploring their gender through their writing or their pen name. Sabrina lied about everything, not just their gender. Their age. Where they live. Their girlfriend. When photos were taken and by whom. If Sean were trans, he would be a mid-fifties trans woman from Arizona. But he interacted as a 30-year-old woman living in Carlsbad. It was all one big fabrication, and that’s the issue.

So please, don’t add more harm to the community by trying to turn this into a trans issue. It’s not.

The issue isn’t an author’s gender; it’s their harmful behavior—lying and deceiving people for years, undermining the trust within our community.

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می 14, 2025
Discovering Clotted Cream – Donna Hatch

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An Excerpt by Donna Hatch, Regency Romance Author

Available on Amazon

Mrs. Hancock beamed as Alicia reached her side, put an arm around Alicia, and brought her into their circle. “Miss Alicia Palmer, allow me to introduce Lord Amesbury.”

Even more devastating up close, Lord Amesbury turned to her. His piercing blue eyes threatened the strength in her knees. Though taller than most ladies, Alicia still had to look up to meet his gaze. No other color existed in those eyes; no green or gray, only deep, dark blue, like the fathomless depths of the ocean.

All the other men she had met lately, namely those her uncle insisted she consider for a husband, had taken careful note of her figure. But this gentleman only looked into her eyes. Very deeply.

Lord Amesbury inclined his head. “Miss Palmer.” His resonant, bass voice touched her very soul.

Alicia met his frank gaze and a sensation she did not quite understand stirred within her until breathing became a conscious effort. Mrs. Hancock discreetly coughed, and Alicia realized she’d been locked in eye contact with the Viscount much longer than appropriate.

Unable to pull her eyes away, Alicia sank into a curtsey. “My lord.”

No longer merely polite, his smile broadened, warmed, transforming an already handsome face into a perfectly stunning visage. Sensuality radiated off him, not in a manner that left her feeling threatened, but in a way that left her breathless for more. More of what, she did not know. But she wanted to find out.

“Miss Palmer,” Lord Amesbury said, “May I have the next dance?”

Alicia blinked. She looked back at Elizabeth who smiled encouragingly. Mrs. Hancock also smiled and nodded, but a touch of disappointment tainted her approval, reminding Alicia the dear lady had hoped her own daughter would attract the attention of the very eligible Lord Amesbury. That he’d singled out Alicia seemed a dream.

She squelched all hope that she might hold his interest. Surely only politeness motivated him to dance with the plainest girl first. He’d soon turn his attention to the beautiful ladies.

Finding her voice, Alicia replied, “I would be delighted, my lord.”

As the final notes of the current dance ended and the next began, Lord Amesbury offered his arm. She took it, an unfamiliar quiver beginning in her stomach. The art of dancing, she found as the set began, had not abandoned her as completely as her wits. The handsome viscount danced with athletic grace, his attention focused upon her. The warmth of his hand seeped through their kidskin gloves. He held her gently, firmly.

A playful glint touched his sapphire eyes. “I must warn you. Now that we’ve danced, my aunt will take it upon herself to ask you your opinion of me. She will most certainly interrogate me regarding you.”

She met those probing eyes and her mouth curved. “Oh? Has your aunt become your self-proclaimed matchmaker?”

A wry smile touched his lips. “Of course. I’m thirty and not yet married. She feels it her duty to ensure I produce an heir before I’m too old. Despite my efforts to delay that obligation, she persists.”

Alicia nodded, her smile deepening at his indelicate statement. “That is a dilemma.”

“Since you and I have only just met, it will be difficult to offer a fair assessment of your character. And if I say anything positive about you, she’ll plan the wedding.” His smile brightened, lighting up his stunning face.

Alicia missed her step. Even while dancing with the very handsome Duke of Suttenberg two Seasons ago, such a keen attraction for a man had never overcome her as it did tonight. Yet she was nearly twenty, for heaven’s sake, not a missish schoolgirl!

“Your aunt is a strong woman and a kind lady, my lord. I am sure you can reason with her.”

“I suppose she possesses a good heart deep, deep down inside, but be truthful; she’s sharp-tongued and outspoken.”

She laughed and then clapped her hand over her mouth. “My lord! She might hear you.”

He chuckled. “Fear not. We needle each other as frequently as possible. I say worse things to her face. I enjoy watching her squirm and plot a counter- attack.”

That reminded her of the playful banter she shared with her cousin Robert. “I don’t recall her ever mentioning you, my lord.”

His smile turned self-deprecating. “I’m one of those relations no one mentions.”

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می 14, 2025
First Kiss Friday with Ramona Elmes – Sherry Ewing

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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.

Buy Link: https://books2read.com/u/mqaV2Q

About the Author:

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.

Find Ramona at:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RamonaElmes

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elmes_ramona/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RamonaElmes

Website: https://ramonaelmes.com

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می 13, 2025