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Guilty of Stealing His Heart
Nancy Lynn White’s Guilty of Stealing His Heart is a well-crafted Historical Western Romance that elegantly traces the transformative journey of Carrie Wagner. As a young and initially naive woman, Carrie embarks on a quest for a fresh start, fleeing the shadows of her criminal husband and her parents’ misdeeds. Her odyssey from Ohio to California is not just a geographical shift but an emotional voyage filled with dreams, aspirations, and a deep-seated desire to build a nurturing family she has always yearned for, yet never experienced.
In this novel, White deftly weaves a tapestry of intricate emotions and compelling characters. The plot, which initially unfolds at a leisurely pace, gradually gains momentum, blossoming into a rich narrative replete with mystery and intrigue. The character development is exceptional, with each persona, particularly Billy, being meticulously crafted with unique and original traits that enhance the story’s allure. White’s writing is imbued with a sweet nostalgia befitting the genre of historical romance.
The dynamic between Carrie and JT is particularly captivating, characterized by a magnetic push-and-pull romance. Their mutual determination to resist falling for each other only intensifies the tension and suspense, adding layers of depth to the narrative. This romantic tension is balanced by themes of new beginnings, faith, justice, and mystery, making the novel not just a romance but a multi-faceted exploration of human resilience and growth.
Despite her initial naivety and inexperience, Carrie emerges as an empathetic character. Readers will find themselves connected to her journey, rooting for her at every turn. Guilty of Stealing His Heart is a riveting read, brimming with inspiration, skillful dialogue, and a narrative drive that makes it difficult to put down. Nancy Lynn White has delivered a novel that is a delightful and profound exploration of love, growth, and redemption.
Pages: 605 | ASIN: B0C7LY9K65
It is Complete
End of Morrow is the gripping conclusion to the trilogy following the lives of an English archaeologist from 1850 AD and a Guardian of the East from 2300 BC whose actions will determine the fate of humankind. What was the initial idea behind this story, and how did that transform as you were writing the trilogy?
The initial idea for the conclusion of the trilogy was born during my first research phase. I identified the Akkadian period, circa 2300 BC, as an ideal time setting. King Sargon of Akkad also stood out as a fascinating antagonist. He was building the world’s first empire and this was changing the known world. I thought, what if this God-King was challenged and not by another ruler but by an individual? This was the seed for the David vs. Goliath battle that would take me two decades to complete. My research was ongoing. I wanted to ensure that my story adhered to historical knowledge of the period and, importantly, King Sargon’s fate. The greatest transformation in my perceived path to the trilogy’s climax occurred through the individual characters taking on lives of their own. Everything is interconnected and I marvelled at the way the characters worked with or against each other towards the inevitable end.
What was one of the hardest parts in End of Morrow for you to write?
The hardest part in writing the final novel in the trilogy was telling myself that it was complete. There was part of me that did not want to let it go. I’m a perfectionist, so I was examining all the character arcs and conflicts. I reworked the end of the final chapter and I was emotional when I re-read this part. When I shared the new end with my partner, she told me that she liked the character Fred Baker for the first time. That was my sign that it was complete.
Where do you see your characters after the book ends?
I feel that the characters in my novels took on lives of their own that were somewhat outside of my control. In writing, I would always ask the character what they would do? I believe readers will be able to easily imagine the future lives of those who survive. The futures of some key characters are purposely left ambiguous and this is because life is ongoing and I want these characters to live on in their active state, rather than as a person who once lived.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
My next novel is set much closer to home in a small country town in Australia. I wrote a screenplay for this story when my trilogy was being edited, so it will be an easy write for me. I’m not ready to reveal the idea but I can tell you that it involves a butcher, a kangaroo, a reporter and, ultimately, the whole world. It is based on a true story and I hope to film a documentary to accompany the novel. My prediction is that it will be available in 2025. I look forward to sharing updates with my followers.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website
1850 AD. English archaeologist Fred Baker has identified the location of the lost city of Assur. To lay claim on the site he must venture into the heart of the Ottoman Empire. Luckily, he has something rarely afforded to archaeologists, the written accounts of ancient guides-the Guardians of the East.
2300 BC. Kar, a Guardian of the East, has travelled west to the Great Sea to rescue a peaceful people from Akkadian domination. If successful, he can pursue his ultimate quest, fighting the illusive God King, Sargon, thus challenging his mortality. King Sargon has his own plans and a second assault on the Guardians’ homeland looms.
East and West clash in this final book in the Guardians of the East trilogy. The mystery of the Tree and all that will be hereafter is revealed. Here be told the fate of the Guardians, the fate of the last God King and the inherent fate of all humankind.
Literary Titan Book Award – Dec 2023
With innovative themes and a knack for turning words into elegant prose, these stunning books effortlessly elevate the art of storytelling. Here’s to the brilliant authors who’ve turned fresh ideas and heartfelt narratives into beautifully written journeys. Your remarkable talent deserves every bit of this recognition.
Award Recipients
FastFlight 540: In Search of Xander by M.M. Mesldorf
Thrive: Ghosts in the Glades by Staci Andrea
The Miracle that made us a United Nation by Betty Lou Rogers
Power by Chuck Fair
The Wood Sprite by James Dobie
Soar a Burning Sky: Echoes of EonThera: Book One
Visit the Literary Titan Book Awards page to see award information.
Literary Titan Book Awards – Dec 2023
Honoring the talent of brilliant authors who captivated us with unique writing styles, vivid worlds, and compelling characters. Delve into a universe of original ideas, celebrating books that stand out with their innovative concepts and extraordinary narratives. Join us in applauding the dedication and hard work of these exemplary authors as we spotlight and praise the magnificent realms they’ve brought to life.
Award Recipients
Shipwreck in Paradise by Konstantinos Gustad C
Visit the Literary Titan Book Awards page to see award information.
Always Stay True to the Characters
My Dearest Miss Fairfax follows a young woman who is forced to hide her engagement to the man she loves as she navigates the lies the two have created. What was the idea, or spark, that first set off the need to write this story?
MDMF is my third Jane Austen-inspired book. Jane Austen Lied to Me is a modern romantic comedy, and A Woman’s Persuasion is a modern LGBTQ translation (I went through Persuasion chapter by chapter and rewrote it to prove that Persuasion is ABSOLUTELY relevant to modern audiences… when you have the stakes right!). In order to work on marketing my other novels, I was learning about how to join groups – including Reddit. I found subreddits for historical fiction for other books I’ve written, and historical costuming subreddits – and the Jane Austen subreddit. You don’t just jump on there and sell your book – you go take part in conversations. It’s so much fun!
So I got into this involved conversation, that somehow or other turned to Emma. The girl everyone loves to hate. I must be a very cantankerous person, I have a fondness for the characters that everyone loves to hate. Mrs. Bennet. Emma. (And after writing this book, Frank Churchill.) The thread that ended up in me writing this novel started with me writing a defense of Emma. We need to look at her without the modern lens. Women at this time have only ONE opportunity in her life to improve her situation – by marrying well. Is it terrible that Emma is focusing on helping Harriet marry well? Or is it selfless?
It was a very long and interesting conversation! And like a good conversation, it wandered over many interesting points and topics. Somehow, it came to the point that there isn’t much written in Jane Austen Fan Fiction on Jane Fairfax. Someone said there is a book out there, but it’s actually really bad. So now, I’m intrigued. I re-read Emma, watching for the bits of Jane and Frank’s story. I went and bought a used copy of Emma, and took a pink highlighter to it while I re-read it again.
The hints to Frank and Jane’s story are all over Emma!
Now I needed to write this story.
What were some of the emotional and moral guidelines you followed when developing your characters?
The biggest guideline that I follow for all my stories is to always stay true to the character. In this particular case, my characters are not mine – they are Jane Austen’s. I cannot violate that guideline! I have to, have to, have to stay true to Austen’s characters. The first thing I did was to take all the hints in Emma that we have about Jane’s romance with Frank, and put them in chronological order. And then start asking questions, and look for the most logical answers whenever there is a gap in the information.
What was your favorite scene in this story?
Probably the proposal. The scariest thing to write.
Scenes that aren’t part of Emma are the most terrifying part – when there is NO information to go on, and I have to rely on the Weymouth Historical Society, and Jane Austen reddit fans and JASNA members. To me, it’s absolutely imperative that the story rings true. It needs to feel like the truth. It needs to be what Jane Austen would have written had she chosen to tell us that part.
What Mrs. Dixon’s first name is, that was concerning. Sophia Dixon nee Campbell gets her first name from one of King George and Queen Charlotte’s children. Why are there so many Janes and Elizabeths in England? Names of queens. How did Frank and Jane meet? That was the second most frightening thing to write. So, “write what you know;” it’s based on a visit to a restaurant in Madison when I’d gone back for a visit. When it came time to write the proposal, I was terrified. It needed to be romantic. It needed to be unique. It needed to ring true with Janeites (even though JA never gives details on proposals in her books). And it needed to be memorable.
To this day, I can’t tell you where it came from. The muses paid me a visit one day, I started writing, and suddenly the scene was done, and I sighed with satisfaction. It felt right.
What is the next book you are working on, and when will it be available?
Sadly, right now my personal life is going through some chaos, so it is going to be a little while until I get back to the research and writing. But for those who expand beyond reading regency era books, I am working on a third book to finish out the Scions of Pittsburgh books. Wealth and Privilege and Brains and Beauty are set in Pittsburgh between 1875 and 1889. I get to write about bustle dresses instead of bonnets and spencers. The third book will be called Deceptions and Desires.
As for Jane Austen inspired books? I’ve had a few ideas, but nothing that has driven me yet to go buy a used copy of the book and get out my pink highlighter. Historical fiction is my first love, and after My Dearest Miss Fairfax, I don’t think I want to go back to modern interpretations.
I’m working on making Audiobooks of all my novels. But that’s EXPENSIVE. But for a reason. Talented people have to put in a lot of hours recording and editing an audiobook. The only way to avoid that expense is AI – which I can’t condone using instead of an actual talented person… so I have a GoFundMe to raise the money to pay for a narrator! Please check out my GoFundMe HERE.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website | Instagram | YouTube
Miss Jane Fairfax has spent her life—though poor and expecting the eventuality of a governess position—by the side of a Colonel’s daughter, living beyond the means she was born into. When she meets the enigmatic and handsome Frank Churchill in Weymouth, she can’t help but fall for him. It’s love at first sight.
Mr Frank Churchill, the heir to his aunt’s fortune and dependent on her goodwill, knows that he cannot marry without Mrs Churchill’s permission. Desperate to marry Jane, he proposes not only marriage but a plan to hide their engagement until his aunt approves of the match. The couple travel separately to their same small hometown of Highbury, where Jane’s ridiculous aunt and the notorious Emma Woodhouse threaten the understanding between them, and as the months pass by, Jane worries that they will be secretly engaged forever, with no happy ending in sight.
As their lies and deceits pile up, can their love survive the social pressures that threaten to tear them apart?
The Count
Rod Taylor’s The Count is an engaging blend of economic crime thriller and historical fiction and a nod to the classic works of Alexandre Dumas and Edgar Allan Poe. The novel follows Nicholas Cameron, a British banker, as he navigates a perilous world of espionage, theft, and cover-ups, reshaping his life in unimaginable ways.
Taylor skillfully crafts a narrative that delves into the history of the Cossack peoples, the intricacies of economic crime, and the dynamics of 1970s-80s Russia with remarkable clarity. He effectively intertwines these diverse elements, ensuring each detail contributes to the story. This synergy of elements makes The Count a captivating read. Additionally, the inclusion of references to support historical assertions adds a layer of authenticity, appealing to fans of well-researched historical fiction.
While the novel’s pacing occasionally presents challenges, with some plot developments feeling abrupt and requiring re-reading for clarity, these moments are minor when weighed against the strength of the overall story. Fans of thrillers and historical narratives will likely find these elements minor and remain absorbed by the compelling plot.
The Count offers a gripping, emotionally resonant story that keeps readers engaged and entertained. Its strong historical grounding and thrilling plot make it recommended for those who appreciate a well-crafted story rooted in historical context.
Pages: 232 | ASIN : B0CLDBHTRJ
A Sailor’s Tale: Miss Judith 1902-1904 Miss Molly
In A Sailor’s Tale: Miss Judith 1902-1904 Miss Molly, author E.G.’ Lusko continues to captivate readers with the latest installment in this engaging historical fiction series. Set during the early 20th century, the narrative follows the life of a sailor, affectionately known as Old Salt Dog, through a series of letters to his niece. His journey takes him to places like Bodie Island, Cape May, Nassau, and the Caribbean, where he encounters a rich tapestry of characters, each bringing their own perspectives and experiences that paint a vivid picture of the era.
The novel, written in an epistolary style, retains the charm and likability of the sailor-narrator, reminiscent of Mark Twain’s Huck Finn or Tom Sawyer. One of the book’s unique features is the minimal description of the narrator, perhaps a deliberate choice by ‘Lusko to make him an everyman figure, representative of any sailor from that era.
We notice subtle changes as we follow our sailor protagonist into the fourth volume. He’s slightly older and a bit more world-weary, hinting at a desire to leave his seafaring life behind. This internal conflict adds depth to his character, showcasing his development and the author’s growth in storytelling.
While I thoroughly enjoyed the story, I believe adding more descriptive detail about the narrator’s physical appearance and inner thoughts would enrich the reader’s connection to him. However, enthusiasts of maritime adventures and historical fiction will undoubtedly find this aspect of the narrative appealing.
A Sailor’s Tale: Miss Judith 1902-1904 Miss Molly is a compelling continuation of a sailor’s life at sea, blending adventure, historical insights, and character growth to create an immersive reading experience.
Pages: 344 | ISBN : 195907198X
A Sailor’s Tale: Miss Judith 1898-1902 Miss Molly
A sailor, identified as QMC, is writing letters to his niece while aboard a ship in the years 1898-1902. QMC, who is well educated, is able to convey to his niece what is happening to him as he spends time in the Caribbean and Mediterranean Seas. He also has several eventful sojourns on shore. His life is fraught with peril, and he encounters pirates, rough weather, and all manner of other dangers. A bluff and hardy man, QMC proves a capable narrator as he explains to his sheltered niece what his days are like as he tries to make his living.
A Sailor’s Tale: Miss Judith 1898-1902 Miss Molly, by E.G.’ Lusko, is a work of historical fiction written in the form of letters, similar to Dracula or The Color Purple. This choice by the author limits the scope of his writing to some extent. The reader cannot see from the other character’s point of view, as would be the case with a third-person narrative style. However, this does not make this novel any less compelling, as QMC furnishes the reader with rich period details that paint a vivid and fascinating portrait of his life and times.
It’s evident that E.G.’ Lusko knows the world about which he’s writing. The conversations between QMC and the individuals who enter his orbit are believable, and some of them are quite touching. As for the narrator, though he’s rough and uncouth in some ways, he also reveals unexpected depths of feeling at certain moments. He makes a living with his brawn and seafaring know-how, but he can also report on the motivations of those around him with surprising insight.
A Sailor’s Tale: Miss Judith 1898-1902 Miss Molly was thought-provoking and enjoyable. It’s interesting to hear about what was happening in the world at this point in history. Being in the hands of a gifted and creative storyteller elevates the narrative beyond the level of comparable works of historical fiction.
Pages: 386 | ISBN : 1959071963
LITERARY TITAN 