Holiday
Historical Fiction Blowout!
This full length novel is 99 cents at Bookstrand. The link is listed below. I've also included a blurb, excerpt and reviews.
What was it like in a Roman Bath? Here's some interesting facts.
The Roman philosopher Seneca lived over a Roman baths in ancient Rome. He complained in letters about the noise!
Things he really hated:
Men exercising hard at the baths and grunting as they did so.
Hair-pluckers wandering about the baths, yelling for customers and then making their customers yell as they plucked out their arm-pit hairs with tweezers. (Ouch!)
Men 'dive-bombing' into the plunge pool.
Cake and sausage sellers shouting about their goodies all round the baths.
Here's details about my historical romance, 'Flavia's Secret' set in and around the baths of Aquae Sulis.
Spirited young scribe Flavia hopes for freedom. She and her fellow slaves in Aquae Sulis (modern Bath) have served the Lady Valeria for many years, but their mistress' death brings a threat to Flavia's dream: her new master Marcus Brucetus, a charismatic, widowed officer toughened in the forests of Germania. Flavia finds him overwhelmingly attractive but she is aware of the danger. To save her life and those of her 'family' she has forged a note from her mistress. If her deception is discovered, all the slaves may die. For his part torn between attraction and respect, Marcus will not force himself on Flavia. Flavia by now knows of his grief over the deaths of his wife Drusilla and child. But how can she match up to the serene, flame-haired Drusilla?
As the wild mid-winter festival of Saturnalia approaches, many lives will be changed forever.
Excerpt
| Excerpt Britannia, 206 A.D. Flavia was sweeping leaves when he came out of the villa. Carrying a brazier, he strolled down the steps and passed the frosted lavender bushes with that loose-limbed stride of his, looking as if he owned the place. Which he did, she conceded. Marcus Brucetus now owned the villa and everyone inside it. She clutched the broom close and darted behind one of the columns fringing the square courtyard and its central open space, whispering, ‘Please.’ Please do not see me, she meant. She wanted him to leave, to be an absentee landlord of this small estate in provincial Britannia. It would be safer for everyone if he left. He had been watching her at the funeral, scrutinizing her with thoughtful dark eyes. She hoped he had forgotten her since then. She risked peeping round the column. He had set the brazier in the middle of the courtyard, beside the ivy-clad statue of the god Pan, and was coaxing the fire into leaping tongues of flame. In the red glow of dawn and the orange glare of the brazier, she could see him plainly: tall and long legged, his simple dark red tunic showing off muscular shoulders. Above tanned, lean features his short, dark brown hair looked as tough and straight as a boar’s pelt. He was a tribune, off-duty and no longer in armor, but still a soldier and a Roman, one of the conquerors of her country. ‘Come here, Flavia,’ he said quietly, without raising his head. Disconcerted at being discovered and more so by his remembering her name, Flavia stepped out of the shadows of the peristyle and approached, her rag-shod feet soundless on the icy gravel path. ‘Gaius said that I would find you out here.’ Another shock, she thought. He spoke her language perfectly. Satisfied with the fire, he looked her up and down, studying her flyaway hair and wiry figure, her baggy, patched dress of undyed wool, one of the cook’s cast offs. She gasped as he took the broom from her. ‘I ask you again—is sweeping not Sulinus’ job? He is the gardener.’ ‘He's chopping wood,’ Flavia stammered, ashamed and alarmed at having missed Marcus Brucetus’ first question. She was conscious of his height and strength, both in stark contrast to the frail, elderly bodies of the male household slaves. ‘Sweeping is one of your tasks?’ Flavia nodded. ‘When Lady Valeria was alive, she wanted the courtyard kept tidy. We are a small household, sir. My mistress preferred to live quietly, with a few close attendants.’ ‘Four ageing slaves and you,’ Brucetus corrected, ‘My adopted mother’s female scribe.’ He shook his head, tossing the broom casually from hand to hand. ‘Valeria never liked a man to tell her anything, and she always did pick the unusual over the conventional.’ Ignoring his amusement at her expense, Flavia fought down panic. Surely this Roman would not be so cruel as to sell the older servants? Surely he would not separate Gaius from his Agrippina, or Sulinus from Livia? She swallowed the rising knot in her throat. ‘We are all loyal, sir, and we know what the house needs to run smoothly.’ ‘Indeed.’ Looking into Flavia’s bright gray eyes, he smiled and gave the broom back to her. ‘Be at peace. I don’t throw servants out into the streets to starve: loyalty cuts both ways. When you know me, you will see this.’ ‘Sir?’ Flavia felt confused by this unexpected candor. She knew that she, more than any of the household, should be wary of this Marcus Brucetus, but she could also still feel the warmth of his hand on the broom handle. Over the crackle of the brazier fire, she could hear his steady breathing. ‘Thank you,’ she murmured, and turned to go. ‘Wait,’ he commanded. ‘I have some questions. Now that the official mourning period is over, it is time.’ Flavia’s heart began to race, but she did not think she had betrayed herself until Marcus said firmly, ‘Don't stand there shivering. Warm yourself by the brazier. That is why it is out here, so we can talk in private.’ Flavia took a sideways step towards the glowing charcoal. She was trembling, but not from the cold. She was afraid of what he might ask. |
Bookstrand Publishing 2008
1606010832
$12.99 Paperback
$5.99 Ebook
'Flavia's Secret' is just 99Cents from Bookstrand
Reviews
Romantic Times:
'The ancient locale that is now modern Bath lends a vivid backdrop to a tender love story surrounded by mystery, danger and deceit. Readers will appreciate Townsend's thorough research and fluid style. Well-written secondary characters complement the action.'
Historical Novels Review Online (amongst reviews for May 2009):
Townsend has a great ear for snappy dialog, and even her most minor characters spring instantly to life with a carefully-chosen sentence or description. Most details of Roman Britain at the time are faithfully rendered, although at its heart, this is a timeless story of two people finding love where they least expect it. Flavia’s Secret is cheerfully recommended.
Historical Romance Club:
Lindsay Townsend's novel, Flavia's Secret, is an enjoyable romantic suspense set in an exotic time and place. The heroine's plight is touching and endearing. The plot, with its evil villain, engages the reader well. This is a good, light historical romance novel that is perfect for summer reading.
Dear Author:
The historical details are lovely. The time and place are very well done. Brava for picking a spot other than Londinium or the border with the wild Caledonians. I have to admit that while reading the scenes in the baths, I couldn’t help but think of all the Regency and Georgian era books I’ve read with all the characters trooping down to take a glass of the healthful waters – hold your nose while you drink that nasty, sulfurous stuff!
And the conflict between the hero and heroine – i.e. the source of the title of the book – is fantastic. Now here’s a real reason for the heroine to hold her tongue and keep things from the hero. When faced with the possible fate meted out to slaves whose master dies suddenly, I’d do just what Flavia does and then some.
Red Roses for Authors:
The romance between Flavia and Marcus is strong and passionate and the mystery is intriguing. Very enjoyable.
Romance Junkies:
FLAVIA’S SECRET is a passionate historical romance. Set in ancient England during Roman rule, I enjoyed reading about these two wonderful characters as well as the setting and town in which the novel took place. Marcus and Flavia were perfect for each other and this book was the perfect read for my ancient history loving soul. Thumbs up Ms. Townsend! I loved every word of FLAVIA’S SECRET!
Long and the Short Reviews:
Other Books in the Holiday Historical Fiction Blowout
(December 1st)
A
Similar Taste in Books – by Linda Banche
Historical Period: Regency
Synopsis:
Book 1 of Love and the Library: Clara and Justin
"Pride and Prejudice" has always brought lovers
together, even in the Regency.
Justin has a deep, dark secret—he likes that most despised form
of literature, the novel. His favorite novel is "Pride and
Prejudice", and, especially, Miss Elizabeth Bennet. Intelligent, lively,
fiercely loyal Miss Elizabeth. How he would love to meet a lady like her.
Clara’s favorite novel is "Pride and Prejudice" and
Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy. Intelligent, steadfast and willing to admit when he is
wrong. Can such a splendid man exist? And can she find him?
One day in the library, they both check out copies of their
favorite book. When Justin bumps into Clara, the magic of their similar taste
in books just might make their wishes come true.
A sweet, traditional Regency romantic comedy novella, but not a
retelling of "Pride and Prejudice".
On sale for 99 cents at Smashwords only with coupon code FF67C (not case sensitive)
(December 2)
Kingdom of Rebels – by
Derek Birks
Historical Period: Fifteenth Century – the Wars of the Roses
Sales links
Synopsis:
When all hope is gone, only death lies in wait…
England in 1468 is a nervous kingdom. King Edward IV has fallen
out with his chief ally during the Wars of the Roses, the powerful Earl of
Warwick.
Ned Elder, a young lord whose sword helped to put Edward on the
throne, has been forced out of England by Warwick.
Far away on the Scottish border, a beleaguered fort, Crag Tower,
desperately awaits Ned’s return. Led by his fiery sister, Eleanor, the
dwindling garrison is all that remains of his brave army of retainers. Unknown
to all except the loyal knight, Ragwulf, Eleanor has Ned’s young son in her
charge - a son who has never seen his father. But, as border clansmen batter
the gates with fire, the castle seems certain to fall.
One by one Ned’s
family and friends are caught up in Warwick’s web of treason. The fate of the
Elders and those who serve them lies once more in the balance as all are drawn
back to Yorkshire where they face old enemies once more. Eleanor can only hope
that Ned will soon return. She must fight to keep that hope alive… and when
Lady Eleanor fights, she takes no prisoners...
(December 3)
Search for the Golden
Serpent
(Servant of the Gods, Book 1) – by Luciana Cavallaro
(Servant of the Gods, Book 1) – by Luciana Cavallaro
Historical
period – 600 BCE Ancient Greece
Synopsis:
The
story is about Evan, an architect whose been having strange dreams. He received
an unexpected phone call from an entrepreneur from Greece who wants Evan to
restore his Family’s home. He dismissed the caller and regarded the person as a
crank. During a dream, he met the mysterious entrepreneur, Zeus, who catapulted
him back in time, five hundred years before the birth of Christ. Evan, an
unwilling participant finds himself entangled in an epic struggle between the
gods and his life.
(December 4)
Children of Apollo (Eagles
and Dragons – Book I) – by Adam Alexander Haviaras
Historical
Period: The Roman Empire, A.D. 202
Synopsis:
At
the peak of Rome’s might a dragon is born among eagles, an heir to a line both
blessed and cursed by the Gods for ages.
Lucius
Metellus Anguis is a young warrior who is inspired by the deeds of his glorious
ancestors and burdened by the knowledge that he must raise his family name from
the ashes of the past. Having achieved a measure of success in the emperor’s
legions in North Africa, Lucius is recalled to Rome where he finds himself
surrounded by enemies, cast into the deadly arena of Roman politics.
Amid
growing fears of treachery, Lucius meets a young Athenian woman who fills his
darkening world with new-found hope. Their love grows, as does their belief
that the Gods have planned their meeting, but when an ancient oracle of Apollo
utters a terrifying prophecy regarding his future, Lucius’ world is once more
thrown into chaos. Ultimately, he must choose sides in a war that threatens to
destroy his family, his faith and all that he has worked for.
Available
here on Amazon, iBooks, and Kobo: http://eaglesanddragonspublishing.com/books/children-of-apollo-eagles-and-dragons-book-i/
(December 5)
Sea Witch (Voyage
One) – by Helen Hollick
Historical
Period: The Golden Age of Piracy – 1716
Synopsis:
Escaping the bullying of
his elder half brother, from the age of fifteen Jesamiah Acorne has been a
pirate with only two loves - his ship and his freedom. But his life is to
change when he and his crewmates unsuccessfully attack a merchant ship off the
coast of South Africa.
He is to meet Tiola
Oldstagh an insignificant girl, or so he assumes - until she rescues him from a
vicious attack, and almost certain death, by pirate hunters. And then he
discovers what she really is; a healer, a midwife - and a white witch. Her
name, an anagram of "all that is good." Tiola and Jesamiah become
lovers, but the wealthy Stefan van Overstratten, a Cape Town Dutchman, also
wants Tiola as his wife and Jesamiah's jealous brother, Phillipe Mereno, is
determined to seek revenge for resentments of the past, a stolen ship and the
insult of being cuckolded in his own home.
When the call of the sea
and an opportunity to commandeer a beautiful ship - the Sea Witch - is put in
Jesamiah's path he must make a choice between his life as a pirate or his love
for Tiola. He wants both, but Mereno and van Overstratten want him dead.
In trouble, imprisoned in
the darkness and stench that is the lowest part of his brother's ship, can
Tiola with her gift of Craft, and the aid of his loyal crew, save him?
Using all her skills Tiola
must conjure up a wind to rescue her lover, but first she must brave the
darkness of the ocean depths and confront the supernatural being, Tethys, the
Spirit of the Sea, an elemental who will stop at nothing to claim Jesamiah
Acorne's soul and bones as a trophy.
Amazon
Author link: viewAuthor.at/HelenHollick
Universal
Amazon link: viewBook.at/SeaWitch
(December 6)
INCEPTIO – by Alison
Morton
Historic Period:
Modern/Roman (alternate history)
Synopsis:
New York, present day, alternate timeline. Karen Brown, angry and
frightened after surviving a kidnap attempt, has a harsh choice - being
eliminated by government enforcer Jeffery Renschman or fleeing to mysterious
Roma Nova, her dead mother's homeland in Europe.
Founded sixteen centuries ago by Roman exiles and ruled by
women, Roma Nova gives Karen safety, at a price, and a ready-made family in a
strange culture she often struggles with. Just as she's finding her feet, a
shocking discovery about her new lover, Praetorian special forces officer
Conrad Tellus, isolates her.
And the enforcer, Renschman, is stalking her in her new home and
nearly kills her. Recovering, she is desperate to find out why this Renschman
is hunting her so viciously. Unable to rely on anybody else, she undergoes
intensive training, develops fighting skills and becomes an undercover cop. But
crazy with bitterness at his past failures, Renschman sets a trap for her,
knowing she has no choice but to spring it...
website: http://alison-morton.com
Link to 99Cents promotion http://alison-morton.com/2015/12/01/holiday-historicals/
Link to 99Cents promotion http://alison-morton.com/2015/12/01/holiday-historicals/
Purchase links:
(December 7)
Men of
the Cross (Battle Scars I) – by Charlene Newcomb
Historical period: Medieval - 12th century
Synopsis:
War, political intrigue and passion… heroes… friends and lovers…
and the seeds for a new Robin Hood legend await you…
Two young knights’ journey to war at Richard the
Lionheart’s side sweeps them from England to the Holy Land in this historical
adventure set against the backdrop of the Third Crusade.
Henry de Grey leaves Southampton in high spirits, strong in his
faith and passionate about the mission to take Jerusalem back from Saladin’s
army. Stephan l’Aigle’s prowess on the battlefield is well known, as are his
exploits in the arms of other men. He prizes duty, honour and loyalty to his
king above all else. But God and the Church? Stephan has little use for either.
Henry’s convictions are challenged by loss and the harsh
realities of bloody battles, unforgiving marches, and the politics of the day.
Man against man. Man against the elements. Man against his own heart. Survival
will depend on more than a strong sword arm.
Blog link to 99Cent offer http://charlenenewcomb.com/2015/11/30/holiday-historical-fiction-blowout
(December 8)
Flavia's Secret – by
Lindsay Townsend
Historical
Period: Ancient Roman Britain, 206 AD
Synopsis:
Spirited young scribe Flavia hopes for freedom. She and her fellow slaves in Aquae Sulis (modern Bath) have served the Lady Valeria for many years, but their mistress' death brings a threat to Flavia's dream: her new master Marcus Brucetus, a charismatic, widowed officer toughened in the forests of Germania. Flavia finds him overwhelmingly attractive but she is aware of the danger. To save her life and those of her 'family' she has forged a note from her mistress. If her deception is discovered, all the slaves may die.
For
his part torn between attraction and respect, Marcus will not force himself on
Flavia. Flavia by now knows of his grief over the deaths of his wife Drusilla
and child. But how can she match up to the serene, flame-haired Drusilla?
As
the wild mid-winter festival of Saturnalia approaches, many lives will be
changed forever.
Welcome to my main blog, where you can find out all about my books.
2 comments:
Day eight of eight - and what a book and fantastic author to finish the tour on!
Thanks, Helen! It's been great!
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