Book Review: For Love of Sarah by Hazel Statham

Regency romance at its finest awaits you in For Love of Sarah by Hazel Statham.

Five years ago, Alexander Markham, Earl of Thorne, discovered his wife, Sarah, had abandoned him. For reasons unknown, the beautiful wife he cherished disappeared without a trace. When he spots her in the marketplace in Yorkshire, the feelings he worked desperately to subdue in the years since she left, come flooding back.

Sarah dared to think she was safe from the secrets that haunt her. Seeing Alexander again after all this time, makes her realize how precarious her situation is. When a flood threatens her home, she is forced to take Alexander up on his offer to board at her former home. As the days pass, the risk of discovery grows, and she doubts their love is strong enough to triumph over the secrets of her past.

For Love of Sarah is a moving Regency romance with a unique plot and a sense of adventure. Filled with love, a quest for the truth, and forgiveness the reader is treated to a romance novel that begs to be devoured. Masterfully told, Statham has created characters you love--or in some instances, love to hate--and whose story totally captivates you from the very first word.

I rarely have the chance to read a book in one sitting, but I stayed up late into the night to finish this one. Having read several of Statham's books, I was thrilled when she asked me to review For Love of Sarah. I have never been disappointed in her work and each book I read is better than the last. That this romance novel deals with a married couple overcoming obstacles to be reunited makes this book unusual, but also very special. Statham takes a risk and it works well.

If you love Regency romance, you must read For Love of Sarah!

Paperback (also available in electronic formats)

Publisher: Montlake Romance (January 8, 2013)

Language: English

ISBN-10: 1612186831

ISBN-13: 978-1612186832

Pre-order now for a January release!

I received a free electronic copy of this book from the author. This review contains my honest opinions, for which I have not been compensated in any way.

This is the 52nd book I've read for the following challenge:

It is the 30th book I've read for the following challenge:

 

Book Review: My Dearest Friend by Hazel Statham

A superb Regency romance awaits you in My Dearest Friend by Hazel Statham.

Robert Blake, Duke of Lear, is filled with guilt and grief over the death of his younger brother, Stefan, in the Peninsular War. When Jane Chandler appeals to the Duke for help in bringing her gravely wounded brother home from Portugal, Robert insists upon joining Jane on the trip.

Little does he know how quickly their friendship will develop into love.

Their young love is soon put to the test by a treacherous tenant of Jane's former home, who fans the flames of jealousy that ignite Robert's intense emotions.

Can their love conquer the emotions that threaten to tear them apart?

What a fascinating conclusion to the Dukes of Lear trilogy! In My Dearest Friend, Statham has done what she knows how to do best: create characters you care about and wish to see conquer all in the name of love.

Robert is not only coping with the loss of his younger brother. This man of intense emotions was also once done wrong by a member of the fairer sex, making him certain not to be played the fool again. He does not expect to be drawn to Jane so deeply, but he won't let his love blind him. Jane is an independent, strong heroine, who is determined to succeed in her mission, despite the many obstacles that stand in her way. She is surprised by the level of assistance the Duke provides, but is thankful to have him along. When a former tenant creates problems between her and Robert, she's determined to be loyal to the man she loves.

My Dearest Friend is such a sweet romance. There are passionate moments, but the door is closed before things get too far, leaving the reader to explore the possibilities within her imagination. Statham has been steadfast in keeping her romances clean so that they my be enjoyed by a wide audience. I appreciate that about her work, knowing I don't have to be afraid to share her books with others.

Each book of this trilogy--Consequence, Dominic, and My Dearest Friend--is a perfect stand alone. They don't have to be read in order. I have only read two of the three. The remaining one (Dominic) is on my Kindle crying for my attention. I can't wait to read it. Regency romance lovers will definitely enjoy My Dearest Friend.

Title: My Dearest Friend
Author:  Hazel Statham
Publisher Write Words, Inc.
ASIN: B0053QW8TM

SRP:  $6.50

Will be available in paperback in November 2011.

The author paid me to promote this book through a virtual book tour with Pump Up Your Book. That fee did not include a review. This review contains my honest opinions, for which I received no monetary compensation.

The Portrait by Hazel Statham Giveaway Winner!

Our congratulations go out to Apple Blossom, winner of a copy of The Portrait by Hazel Statham. I'll be emailing the winner today. She'll have 72 hours to contact me. If I haven't heard from her by then, I'll select a new winner.

Thanks to all who participated in this giveaway. I've read most of Hazel's books. I felt The Portrait was one of her best books yet. I hope you'll consider picking up a copy if you didn't win.

We have other giveaways running through Sunday. So check out our sidebar for more information.

The Portrait Giveaway Ending Soon!

The last day to enter our giveaway for The Portait by Hazel Statham is tomorrow. All comments must be posted by 11:59 PM Eastern.

If you or someone you know enjoys Regency romance, you won't want to miss this one. Click here for details!

Good luck to all who enter.

February Romance Novel Event: The Portrait by Hazel Statham Giveaway!

England 1812

Severely injured at the battle of Salamanca, Edward Thurston, the new Earl of Sinclair, returns home to his beloved Fly Hall. Determined not to present his prospective bride with the wreck he believes himself to have become, he decides to end his betrothal, unaware that Lady Jennifer, for vastly differing reasons, has reached the selfsame decision.

Throughout the campaigns, Edward was often seen relying greatly on a miniature he carried, and it is to this token he clings upon his return. Will he eventually find happiness with the girl in the portrait, or will he remain firm in his resolve not to wed? Reason dictates one course, his heart another.

Read the excerpt!

Entering the hallway at Fly, Jennifer asked her cousin Eleanor, who acted as chaperone, to await her there. Despite the impropriety, she wished for no witness to the interview with her betrothed, desiring whatever words were spoken to remain private. It took much persuading, but eventually Eleanor, much against her better judgment, succumbed to her young relative’s pleadings and allowed herself to be cozily seated by the large fireplace, glad of its welcoming warmth after the chills of the carriage.


****



Hearing the sounds of arrival, the earl rose from his chair in the morning room and prepared to meet his intended. Something in the region of his chest clenched at the thought of the impending interview, but he schooled his countenance to greet her with an equanimity he was far from feeling.



Almost immediately, the door opened and Brough announced Lady Jennifer. Full of resolve, her skirts swishing with the crispness of her step, she came quickly into the light-filled, blue and gold salon. As the door closed quietly behind her, she came to an abrupt halt.



Finding it difficult to advance further into the room, she visibly blanched at the extend of Sinclair’s injuries, her expressive eyes wide at sight of his altered appearance. Nothing could have prepared her for the emotions the mere sight of him evoked, and whatever words she would have uttered, died unsaid.



Ignoring his wildly leaping emotions at seeing her once more, Edward drank in the delicacy of her features and form and, gathering his cloak of resolve about him, quickly closed the gap between them. Taking her cold fingers in his warm clasp, he raised them dutifully to his lips, feeling them tremble in his hold. His eyes never left her face, and he realized that there was no guile about her as he watched the mix of emotions that chased across her pale countenance. In that instant, he knew that he had made the right decision to end the betrothal.



“My lord, I…..” she began, but her voice failed and he saw the tears well up into her beautiful eyes.



“Will you not be seated, Lady Jennifer?” he said, leading her to a chair by the hearth. “Brough will bring refreshments and after a cup of tea I am sure you will feel more the thing.” Releasing her hand he stood before her as she sank into the chair. He found it necessary to concentrate, to keep his voice neutral, so that she would not be aware of his inner turmoil. Grateful that he was at least allowed to retain his pride, he was relieved that he showed no signs of the physical weakness that had laid him so low.



“I realize my appearance must come as quite a shock to you,” he said with an incongruous smile.



She half rose but he held up his hand to forestall her and she once more sank back against the cushions. All former irritation forgotten, she was unable to put into words what she was feeling at that precise moment and was relieved when a light tapping on the door heralded an interruption.



Brough came into the room with a tray full of a light repast which was placed on a low table set at their side, whilst a butler brought in a tea tray and set it on a small table beside Jennifer.



Busying herself with the pouring of the tea, she set up a flow of inconsequential conversation in the hope of presenting a diversion. She never allowed her eyes to wander from her task, dreading the moment when she would be forced to acknowledge the situation. However, as she handed the cup to Sinclair, the words died on her lips as she became aware of his intense scrutiny.

Seeing her unease, Edward straightened himself in his chair, saying in a subdued tone, “Lady Jennifer, I think it only fair that I bring about a swift end to your disquiet. I see what affect my injuries have on you, and believe me when I say that I quite understand. I am not so insensitive as to not realize just how devastating it would be if you were forced to ally yourself to such an individual as I have become. I would not wish it on you.”



She would have given an answer but he slowly shook his head. “There is no need to attempt to put the matter delicately. I am quite sure you realize, as do I, that to continue with the engagement would be disastrous. Therefore, I will not prevaricate on the issue. I release you from your promise. The wedding will not take place.”



“It is not your wish that we should marry?” she asked paling still further.



“It is not. I will send a retraction to the Gazette immediately. It will be seen that I have been too long away and who should blame us if our sentiments have undergone a change during that time. Indeed, it will be seen that I am the cause of the rift, so you need not fear censure.”



“Are my feelings on the matter not to be considered then, sir?” she demanded.



“I don’t think you know what your feelings are at this precise moment,” he replied, noting the indignant tilt of her chin and the militant look in her eye. “If you would but be guided by me, I’m sure you will see the right of it, and will be relieved to be rid of me.”



“I am beginning to think that I shall,” she said, coming abruptly to her feet and nearly upsetting the tea tray in the process. “I’m excessively grateful to you for pointing it out to me. You have saved me the need to deliberate further on the matter.”



He too came to his feet and bridged the distance between them to take her hand in his.



“You may not think it now, but you will come to be grateful to me for making the decision,” he said earnestly. “Let not your sentiments at this moment in time cloud your judgment. You see me as a case for pity, and it’s not what I would wish. I will not allow you to take me when such emotions rule.”



“You are quite right, sir,” she snapped, withdrawing her hand from his warm clasp. “I would not wish that you should think I take you out of sympathy, therefore I see the sense of it.” She did not understand why his words piqued her so. Had it not been her own intent to end the betrothal?



An unfathomable look came in his eyes. “I hope we may still meet as friends?”



“As friends? I see no reason why we should not,” she replied coolly, deciding her reaction was that of resentment because it had been he who had uttered the words that ended the betrothal and not she.



Relieved, he smiled. “Then we are in agreement?”



“Most certainly. You have taken a burden from my mind. I too had wondered at the sense of continuing with the engagement and had reached the same decision as have you. Now we are both free to continue with our lives unhindered!”



“Have you felt the betrothal a hindrance?” he asked with some concern.



She colored with confusion. “Yes…no…I don’t know what I have felt. We had become as strangers and you were so far away….” Her voice faltered and she refused to meet his gaze.



“Then the decision to end it is the right one and you may recommence your life without its burden. Now that the matter is settled, we can be easy in each other’s company. Won’t you be seated and take some tea with me? Talk to me for a while. I am in dire need of civilized conversation.

****

When the time came for Jennifer to leave Fly, Edward escorted his former betrothed and her companion to their chaise. Watching from the shallow steps that led to the gravel drive, he raised his hand in farewell as the equipage disappeared down the long driveway, waiting until it disappeared from view before turning back to the hall.



Repairing immediately to his apartment, he went straight to the dresser and pulled wide the drawer. Without taking it from its resting-place, he opened up the handkerchief and looked once more at the delicate face in the portrait.



“The deed is done, my love. The deed is done,” he said quietly, and once more folding the cloth, he gently closed the drawer.

Blurb from my review: "Regency romance novels don't get any better than The Portrait by Hazel Statham."

More reviews!

"I recommend this novel with a high flying 5 star review and will definitely be checking out more of Ms. Statham's books in the near future!"

--Book Reviews by Molly

"Hazel Statham depicts a wonderful tale of friendship and love with this heartwarming tale. Edward's obsession with THE PORTRAIT really captured my interest right away and I couldn't help but wonder who the woman is and why she's so vital to him. That mystery alone was enough to keep me glued to the pages. I eagerly anticipated each scene where their younger brothers, Perry and Freddie, would find themselves involved in some sort of trouble and require their help to extract themselves. I loved how Edward and Jennifer's friendship is so obviously based on more than just simple affection and they'd both go out of their way to help each other. THE PORTRAIT is a lovely romance with unexpected occurrences and fun characters who will charm their way into your hearts. This is definitely a story I'd highly recommend reading."

--C. Dionne, Oregon


"I very highly recommend this book. It's an absolute delight! It's well written, the story line is light and fun and entertaining. It kept me turning the pages and I couldn't put it down. The characters stole my heart. It's positive, heart-warming, sweet and romantic! I would love to read more books like this one from this author!"

--Life in Review

Now that I've really made you want to own a copy of this book, here's how you can win a free copy for yourself.

1) You must be a follower of The Book Connection to win.

2) For your first entry, visit the author's website at http://www.hazel-statham.co.uk/index.htm and leave a comment here telling me which of her books you have read or would like to read. Please be sure to include a valid email address. You cannot win if I don't have your email address.

3) One additional entry if you friend me on Facebook. Leave a comment with your profile link to show you're friending me.

4) One additional entry if you follow me on Twitter. Leave a comment with your profile link to show you're now a follower.

5) One additional entry if you follow Hazel on Twitter. Leave a comment with your profile link to indicate you requested to be a follower.
6) You must be 18 or older and reside in the U.S. or Canada to be eligible to win.

Deadline for entries is 11:59 PM Eastern on Sunday, February 27, 2011. Winner will be selected out of all entrants who followed the rules governing this contest. Winner will have 72 hours after being contacted to email me their mailing address. If I have not heard from the winner within that time frame, I will select a new winner. The Book Connection is not responsible for lost or damaged goods.

Book Review: The Portrait by Hazel Statham

A sweet Regency romance is what you'll find in The Portrait by Hazel Statham.

Edward Thurston and Lady Jennifer were engaged to be married. But that was before the war. Edward is severely injured at the battle of Salamanca. He spends time recuperating and then returns to his beloved Fly Hall, as the new Earl of Sinclair.

Unable to offer the wreck he has become to his prospective bride, he ends his betrothal, unaware that Lady Jennifer has also come to the same decision.

During the campaigns, Edward relied greatly on a miniature he carried. He continues to cling to it upon his return, though he doesn't realize others know if its existence.

Will Edward stand firm in his resolve not to marry or will he find happiness with the girl in the portrait?

I am familiar with some of Statham's other work--His Shadowed Heart and Lizzie's Rake--but I have to admit this time I think she has outdone herself.

Staying true to her "sweet romance" fans, in The Portrait, the author delivers an engaging story that builds on the attraction of two characters without taking those feelings into the bedroom. For very different reasons, Edward and Lady Jennifer have decided to call off their engagement, yet they cannot deny their feelings for each other, no matter how hard they try to hide them.

An incident involving Edward's and Lady Jennifer's young brothers finds them thrust together on a journey that might leave their reputations in tatters. The antics of their siblings, Edward's sense of humor, and Jenny's determination not to admit what she feels for the Earl of Sinclair all find the reader eagerly turning the pages. I don't believe it took me more than three nights to get from beginning to end, and then I was ready to start all over again.

What Statham has always done extremely well is create characters you care about; men and women who are for whatever reason spending a good deal of the time denying their feelings. Because the author takes the time to explore the many facets of these characters and why they deny themselves the glory of love, the reader can't help but be thrilled when they finally admit what they knew all along.

Regency romance novels don't get any better than The Portrait by Hazel Statham.


Title: The Portrait
Publisher: Avalon Books
ISBN-10: 0803477872
ISBN-13: 978-0803477872
SRP: $23.95

Lizzie's Rake by Hazel Statham--Book Review

Be swept away by an historical romance that will leave you feeling satisfied, in Lizzie's Rake by Hazel Statham.

Infamous rake and Corinthian, Maxim Beaufort, Earl of St. Ive, winds up in possession of a property in Yorkshire after a card game. Traveling to see what fixes would be necessary to make Briarfield ready for sale, the earl finds the former owner's daughter, Elizabeth Granger and her siblings living on the estate. Maxim is drawn to Lizzie, but she refuses to have anything to do with the man who plans to steal her home.

When a suspicious fire destroys Briarfield, Maxim makes plans for Lizzie and her younger siblings to temporarily live on his estate. Sharing an appreciation for horses, but little else, Elizabeth rejectes Maxim's proposal of marriage. Her trust having been betrayed before, Lizzie doesn't find it easy to trust anyone, and the earl's reputation with the ladies certainly doesn't win her over. But the earl is known as "The Indomitable" and he's not about to give up.

This is the second book by Hazel Statham that I've read, and I know I'll be first in line when her next book comes out.

In Lizzie's Rake, Statham has once again created a cast of interesting and complex characters who pull you immediately into the storyline. Other than her complete knowledge of the Regency era and her ability to paint the picture for her reader, Statham's greatest strength is her characters. Multi-faceted, and yet, seemingly simple and straightforward at times, Lizzie, Maxim, and a host of other characters make this Regency romance a charming and delightful read.

A romance novel that every reader will feel comfortable sharing, the perfect combination of characters, an interesting plot, a tiny bit of mystery, and a love of horses work together to create a story that you'll want to read more than once.

Lizzie's Rake by Hazel Statham is Regency romance at its finest.


Title: Lizzie's Rake
Author: Hazel Statham
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
ISBN: 1-60154-465-0
SRP: $11.99 (U.S.)

The Art of Writing Regency Romance by Hazel Statham

Hazel Statham returns to The Book Connection today to talk about the art of writing Regency Romance. Her latest release, Lizzie's Rack (The Wild Rose Press) is now available at Amazon.

Hazel lives in Staffordshire, England. She started writing at fifteen and has written on and off ever since. She has always been fascinated by history and writes mainly in the Regency and Georgian eras, although she has had a short Medieval story published. Her first two novels were published in 2005.

She has been married to her husband Terry since 1969 and they have a grown daughter and beautiful grandson. Apart from reading and writing historical novels, her other ruling passion is animals and until recently, she was treasurer for an organization that raised money for animal charities. She currently shares her home with two lovely yellow Labradors named Lucy and Mollie, who are her constant companions. They are real sweeties, but it’s not always easy working at the computer with a large Labrador trying to get on your knee!



Can a rake reform his ways and truly love? Lizzie's head tells her one thing, her heart another.

Infamous rake and Corinthian, Maxim Beaufort, Earl of St. Ive, finding himself in possession of a property in Yorkshire, is unprepared for the changes it will bring into his life. Irresistibly drawn to Elizabeth Granger, the former owner’s daughter, he attempts to help the family, finding himself filling the role of benefactor.

When the house is razed to the ground, he arranges for temporary accommodations for Elizabeth and her siblings on his estate and when Elizabeth rejects his proposal of marriage, he is nonetheless determined to win her over.

However, events and his reputation conspire to thwart his efforts and his course is one fraught with dangers.

Trust does not come easily and determined to protect her heart, Elizabeth struggles to resist her own longings. At times, their difficulties appear insurmountable but the earl is widely known as ‘The Indomitable’ and the name was not lightly earned.


Hazel Statham returns to The Book Connection today to talk about the art of writing Regency Romance. Hazel lives in Staffordshire, England. She started writing at fifteen and has written on and off ever since. She has always been fascinated by history and writes mainly in the Regency and Georgian eras, although she has had a short Medieval story published. Her first two novels were published in 2005.

She has been married to her husband Terry since 1969 and they have a grown daughter and beautiful grandson. Apart from reading and writing historical novels, her other ruling passion is animals and until recently, she was treasurer for an organization that raised money for animal charities. She currently shares her home with two lovely yellow Labradors named Lucy and Mollie, who are her constant companions. They are real sweeties, but it’s not always easy working at the computer with a large Labrador trying to get on your knee!

You can find out more about Hazel and her books at www.hazel-statham.co.uk.

Hazel's turn:

The Art of Writing Regency Romance


For me, writing in the Regency period has always been easy. It has often been joked that I was born in the wrong century as my writing voice is of that period.

I find I have an empathy for those times, especially during the time of the Peninsular Wars. You will find many of my stories relate to this period in British history. I find it difficult to explain my ‘feel’ and knowledge of the era but I suppose it relates to the fact that I have devoured Regency and other historical books from my early teens. Georgette Heyer has always been a great inspiration to me and nothing pleases me more than when my work is likened to hers.

However, in writing Regency it’s important to get it ‘right’. It’s the author’s responsibility to create a feel of the early nineteenth century. If I state facts, they are as accurate as I can make them and the use of traditional speech patterns also helps to create an atmosphere. Over the years many words have changed their meaning and usage so it is important not to give a modern day feel to the dialogue.

Romance itself has changed very little over the years but one must observe the mores of the day. To me, it is wrong to transpose the morals of today’s world onto earlier eras.

I am fascinated by the romance and elegance of the Regency period and this is what I hope to recreate in my work. So much emotion can be conveyed with merely a glance or a word.

I write Traditional Regency Romance and close the bedroom door when my hero and heroine retire. In true Regency tradition, the romance is in the characters and situations I create. I don’t write to a formula but there is humor and pathos and sometimes heart-rending situations, but always there is a happy ending.

If I succeed in bringing the era alive in my readers imagination and even for only a moment transport them into this wonderful time in history, then I am delighted to share my Regency world with then.

To follow the rest of Hazel's virtual book tour, stop by http://virtualbooktours.wordpress.com/ during the month of June.

Anyone who leaves comments at any of the blogs hosting Hazel during her virtual book tour, will be entered in a drawing to win either a $50 gift certificate from Amazon.com (non-authors) or a free virtual book tour (authors).

LIZZIE’S RAKE VIRTUAL BOOK TOUR JUNE ‘09

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Join Regency romance author Hazel Statham as she travels the blogosphere in June 2009 with Pump Up Your Book Promotion Public Relations on her fourth virtual book tour to discuss her latest release, Lizzie’s Rake (The Wild Rose Press).

When infamous rake and Corinthian, Maxim Beaufort, Earl of St. Ive, finds himself in possession of a property in Yorkshire, he is irresistibly drawn to Elizabeth Granger, the former owner’s daughter. Whilst attempting to help the family, he ends up filling the role as benefactor. When the house is razed, he arranges temporary accommodations for Elizabeth and her siblings on his estate but when he proposes to Elizabeth he is rejected.

Trust doesn’t come easily for Elizabeth and determined to protect her heart, she struggles to resist her longings, especially considering the earl’s reputation. At times, their difficulties appear insurmountable but the earl is widely known as ‘The Indomitable’ and the name was not lightly earned.

PRAISE FOR LIZZIE’S RAKE:

“Lizzie's Rake… is so well written with delightful characters, one is caught up in events making this a most satisfying story of a rocky road to love.” – Camellia, Long and Short Reviews

PRAISE FOR OTHER BOOKS BY HAZEL STATHAM:

“His Shadowed Heart by Hazel Statham is a richly detailed and well-written historical romance.” – Christina, Romance Junkies

“My Dearest Friend is a very tender love story… The reader cannot help but be caught up in their life.” — Cherokee, Coffee Time Romance

Hazel Statham lives in Staffordshire, England. Her first two novels were published in 2005. She has been married to her husband Terry since 1969 and they have a grown daughter and beautiful grandson. Apart from reading and writing historical novels, her other ruling passion is animals and until recently, she was treasurer for an organization that raised money for animal charities. She currently shares her home with two lovely yellow Labradors named Lucy and Mollie, who are her constant companions.

You can find Hazel online at www.hazel-statham.co.uk.

If you would like to follow Hazel Statham on her virtual book tour, visit the official Pump Up Your Book Promotion Virtual Book Tour site at http://virtualbooktours.wordpress.com/.

Hazel Statham’s virtual book tour is brought to you by Pump Up Your Book Promotion Virtual Book Tours, a virtual book tour agency for authors who want quality service for an affordable price. More information can be found on their website at www.pumpupyourbookpromotion.com.

February Featured Novel - His Shadowed Heart by Hazel Statham

I had never read Regency romance before picking up His Shadowed Heart by Hazel Statham, but I was so glad I had the chance to review this one and will certainly be on the lookout for more of Hazel's books.

In His Shadowed Heart, we find Richard, the Earl of Waverly, plagued by the death of his wife. Now alone and caring for his daughter, he enters into a marriage of convenience to Caroline Northam. Little does the Earl know how much he will come to love her.

But their love is jeopardized by strange happenings that are blamed on the ghost of his first wife. Can their love survive?

The details that Statham includes in this novel paint a perfect picture of the era. Her work has been compared to that of Georgette Heyer and I truly believe that all Regency romance fans will love Hazel's books.

If I remember correctly, Statham has two new books coming out this year. See her website for more information.

His Shadowed Heart by Hazel Statham--Book Review

An enjoyable, romantic read is what you'll find in Hazel Statham's His Shadowed Heart.

The Earl of Waverly might never love again. After the death of his wife, he believes his heart irreparably damaged. Entering into a marriage of convenience to young Caroline Northam, the Earl settles in to a life with his daughter and new bride. Little does he know the affect Caroline will have on him.

But their new-found happiness is jeopardized by strange happenings and heinous acts attributed to the ghost of his first wife. Will their love be strong enough to survive?

This is the first Regency romance I've read, though I am a huge fan of historical fiction and historical romance novels. The story opens with the Earl of Waverly's (Richard's) sister, Lady Victoria Stanton, trying to bully her younger brother into remarrying, even if just for his daughter's sake. The entertaining exchange sets the mood for the remainder of their conversations, which I found almost as enjoyable as the tense moments between the earl and his cousin, Gerald Dent. The author goes to great extents to create Richard and it shows in every emotion and movement he feels and performs.

The rich details draw the reader right into the time period and through Statham's eloquent prose the reader discovers how much meaning can be found in a brief glance, a caress, a tender kiss to an upheld hand.

I only wish I had not discovered the identity of the perpetrator earlier than when it was openly revealed. Perhaps if one or two clues had not been dropped in previous chapters I might have been more surprised. This did not, however, take anything away from the delightful ending--which I believe is perfect.

His Shadowed Heart by Hazel Statham should be on every historical romance lovers wish list.


Title: His Shadowed Heart
Author: Hazel Statham
Publisher: Wings ePress, Inc.
ISBN: 978-1-59088-756-8
U.S. Price: $16.95

Regency Romance by Hazel Statham

In honor of Regency Romance author Hazel Statham's third virtual book tour with Pump Up Your Book Promotion, The Book Connection is featuring a spotlight on Hazel's work. Hazel's latest novel is His Shadowed Heart, which is available at Wings ePress, Amazon.com, and Fictionwise.com.






My Dearest Friend

Devastated by the death of his younger brother, Stefan, in the Peninsular War, Robert Blake, Duke of Lear, is wracked with guilt and grief, believing himself responsible for his death as he had purchased his commission.

He is approached by Jane Chandler, the sister of a fellow officer of Stefan’s, to help hire a craft to bring her seriously wounded brother back from Portugal. Without Jane’s knowledge, he decides to take a hand in the young soldier’s deliverance and together they embark on the hazardous journey.

However, the journey holds more revelations than they anticipate, not least of all, the growing love between the two travelers. When they return to England however, the perfect life they had envisioned is rudely interrupted when events take an unexpected turn and their love is put severely to the test when the tenant of Jane’s former home invades their life.

It is a story of deliverance, retribution, misunderstandings and love.

Author's reflections:

The idea for My Dearest Friend came from a dream. I had written the beginning several years ago and put it aside, but when I had to finish working through ill health, I thought it was time to take another look at it. All the old enthusiasm for Robert and Jane’s story came back to me and I couldn’t wait to begin working on it again.

Even though I had mapped the story out, and knew exactly where I wanted it to go, on several occasions, my characters decided to add yet another aspect. For me, writing a novel is like watching a play unfold or eavesdropping on my characters’ conversations, and frequently, I find words coming out of their mouths that I never expected. Stefan’s illegitimate daughter came as quite a surprise to me. The sergeant took me quite by surprise when he marched in and announced it. I loved writing this book and was quite sorry when it reached its natural conclusion.


Read an excerpt from My Dearest Friend here.

Available at Wings ePress, Amazon.com, and Fictionwise.





Dominic

London, 1775

Dominic Blake, Earl of Vale, is a young man of privilege and breeding whose world is turned upside down by Jack, a beautiful young girl in boy’s clothing whom he finds sheltering on his doorstep after fleeing an attack by her brother.

Despite leaving his protection, Jack is once more destined to enter Dominic’s life when, injured in a horse race, Dominic is forced to rusticate to his father’s estate and again meets Jack in her boyish guise. In turn, she becomes his pupil and his love.

Despite danger and misunderstandings, this is the story of their unconventional and delightful courtship.

Author's reflections:

Although Dominic is the story of Robert’s father, I wrote it after completing My Dearest Friend. So loath was I to leave the family that I decided to write about the previous Duke of Lear. Dominic, then the Earl of Vale just strode onto the scene and told his own story – I just went along for the ride. He was a fun character to write and frequently made me smile.

Despite being a man of his time, Dominic is charming and very hard to resist, as Sophie found out quite early in their acquaintance and this is the story of their unconventional and delightful courtship.

Although the story is set in England, I wrote a fair piece of it whilst on holiday in Orlando. The wind and rain raged and the trees outside our hotel window were horizontal, I wrote and my husband slept and it was one of the best holidays we have ever had.

Read and excerpt of Dominic here.

Available at Wings ePress, Amazon.com, and Fictionwise.com.




And Hazel's latest novel...



His Shadowed Heart

Can a shadowed heart revive? After the death of his first wife, the Earl of Waverly, believing his heart irreparably damaged, enters into a marriage of convenience.

Amidst conspiracy, can Caroline, his young wife, prove his salvation and bring joy into his life or will nefarious deeds and ghostly happenings destroy their chance of happiness? Only time will tell if their love is strong enough to stand the test.

Author's reflections:

I began thinking of the plot line for His Shadowed Heart as I neared the conclusion of Dominic. I don’t know what sparked the thought but I began thinking of this nobleman who was devastated after his wife’s death. The thought started with a central but pivotal scene and grew outward. I had to make sure that I understood the earl’s reasons for remaining unwed before attempting to tell his story.

Not only does the Earl of Waverley have to deal with his shattered emotions but there is a dual aspect to the story where nefarious and strange happenings invade his life and he wonders if his torment will ever ease. Despite his determination to remain unwed, in Caroline, he finds his perfect mate and together they face the haunting memories of his past.

Read an excerpt of His Shadowed Heart here.

Now available at Wings ePress, Amazon.com, and Fictionwise.com.


The HIS SHADOWED HEART VIRTUAL BOOK TOUR '08 will officially begin on July 7, 2008 and continue all month long. You can visit Hazel's tour stops at www.virtualbooktours.wordpress.com in July!

As a special promotion for all our authors, Pump Up Your Book Promotion is giving away a FREE virtual book tour to a published author with a recent release or a $25 Amazon gift certificate to someone not published who comments on our authors' blog stops. More prizes will be announced as they become available. One winner for each author will be announced on the virtual book tour blog on July 31!

This virtual book tour has been brought to you by:

Historical Romance author Hazel Statham and My Dearest Friend

January has been a month of great authors here at The Book Connection. And today is no exception. Joining us is historical romance author Hazel Statham. She is touring with Pump Up Your Book Promotion for the second time and we'll be talking about her latest release, My Dearest Friend.

Welcome to The Book Connection, Hazel. It's great to have you with us.

Thank you so much for inviting me.

Before we begin talking about My Dearest Friend, can you tell us a bit about yourself? How long have you been writing? What is the first story you can remember putting down on paper? Are you a full-time novelist? What do you like to do in your spare time?

I have written on and off since I was fifteen and wrote my first novel, 'Goldacre' at sixteen. I wrote three books in two years but, sadly, they disappeared when we moved house. I wish I had them now so that I could compare them to what I currently write. Now that I am 'officially' retired, I can write as and when the mood takes me, go I guess you can call me a full-time novelist.

I live in the UK and when I am not writing, I love spending time with my family, especially my six-year-old grandson who is a pure delight. In quieter moments I like to read and it is a family joke that you can leave me anywhere as long as I have a book.

Have you always written historical romance? What draws you to this genre?

I have always been fascinated by history, especially the romance and elegance of the Regency and Georgian eras, and it is this that encourages me to attempt to recreate them in my work.

What is the greatest challenge of writing an historical novel?

If I am stating fact, I try to ensure that I get it right. I believe that you should make the story fit the fact, not the fact fit the story.




Let's move on to My Dearest Friend. Tell us about this story.

Here is a brief blurb:

Robert Blake, Duke of Lear, is a man of intense emotions who loves deeply and protects fiercely. Devastated and wracked with guilt by the death of his younger brother, Stefan, in the Peninsular War, he readily agrees to aid Jane Chandler to bring her seriously wounded brother back from Portugal.

Much against Jane’s wishes, he decides to accompany her and together they embark on the hazardous mission to retrieve the young soldier. However, the journey holds many revelations, not least of all the abiding friendship and growing love between the two travellers.

That special love is put severely to the test by the treachery that awaits them upon their return to England, when a tenant of Jane’s former home invades their lives, maliciously creating jealousy and misunderstandings for his own nefarious reasons.

Can their friendship and love conquer the emotions that threaten to tear them under?

My Dearest Friend is set in London in the early 1800's. What about this setting appeals to you?

It is the time of the Peninsular War which has always been of great interest to me and the war is integral to the plot. It is the war that is responsible for Stefan's death and Harry's injuries and the reason why Jane and Robert undertake their journey into Portugal.

In the first chapter, we meet Robert Blake, Duke of Lear. He is playing cards with a young man and is beating the pants off of him. Why did you choose to start the story off this way?

Ah, although the reader doesn't yet know it, this is a very important part of the story. To say more would give the plot away.

In the first chapter we also meet Jane Chandler. What can you tell us about her?

Jane is desperate to retrieve her wounded brother from Portugal. She is so determined to set out on the journey that, in an effort to reach him before it’s too late, she is prepared to embark on the mission alone. This selfless decision makes Robert aware of her caring and devoted nature and leaves a lasting impression on him.

When the two meet, Robert has been in mourning the loss of his brother who died in the war. How does this impact his relationship with Jane?

At first, he believes his decision to accompany Jane on her hazardous mission is merely his desire to prevent another youth from suffering the same fate as his brother and doesn't recognise his attraction to her. It's only later that he realises his twofold desire.

Robert and Jane embark upon a journey together and their feelings for each other deepen. Why will readers care what happens to them? Why will they want Robert and Jane to be together?

In Jane, Robert finds his soul mate, a woman who succeeds where so many have failed in capturing his heart. She encourages him to unburden his grief and offers understanding and, for the fist time since his brother's death, he is able to respond. In her, he sees his redemption and his love.

For Jane, he is her protector and rock, a man of strength and courage who shows unparalleled kindness. They are a perfect foil for each other and deserve a blissful future but when treachery comes into their lives and secrets cannot be told, that future is far less than certain.

Please tell us where readers can purchase a copy of My Dearest Friend.

Currently it is available as both an e-book and in print from http://www.wings-press.com/Bookstore/My Dearest Friend.htm but will also be available from Amazon.com and Fictionwise.com later in the month.

What is up next for you? Are there future projects you would like to share with our readers?

I have another Regency, ‘His Shadowed Heart’, due for release with Wings ePress on June 1st, 2008 and a further two, ‘Consequence’ and ‘Lizzie’s Rake’ with Highland Press in 2008 (I do not have the exact dates as yet).

Is there anything you would like to add?

I love to hear from my readers and promise to answer all my mail. You can email me at hazel.statham1@ntlworld.com

Thank you for spending some time with us today Hazel. I wish you continued success.

Thank you so much, it has been a pleasure talking to you.


This virtual book tour has been brought to you by: