Blog Archives
A Celtic Yuletide Carol
A Celtic Yuletide Carol beautifully weaves together the story of Ulla, the daughter of a Viking chieftain who has lost her voice following the tragic deaths of her husband and son, and Cardin, a former knight struggling with grief after losing his wife and estranging himself from his son, Lukaz. Cardin’s reluctant return home, driven by his mother’s dying wish, brings him into Ulla’s life, and as their worlds intertwine, they begin to heal from their shared pain.
Set in 13th-century medieval France, author Jennifer Ivy Walker crafts a captivating love story filled with heartache, healing, and the magic of the holiday season. Both Ulla and Cardin are richly developed characters who have endured years of emotional suffering, and their journey of overcoming trauma and finding love feels authentic and deeply moving. The historical backdrop enhances the story, while the festive atmosphere adds an extra layer of warmth.
Walker’s writing shines throughout the novel. She has a remarkable ability to draw readers into the world she creates, making them feel deeply connected to the characters. The bond between Cardin and Ulla is both tender and powerful and left me convinced that these two souls were destined to find each other. Their relationship unfolds with grace as they help one another overcome their past wounds and form a connection that feels both unique and timeless. Adding a touch of humor, Cardin’s mother brings lightheartedness to the story with her determined efforts to reunite her family. Her antics are both amusing and endearing, capturing the essence of a loving, scheming mother who will stop at nothing to bring her son home.
A Celtic Yuletide Carol is an enchanting and cozy holiday read, perfect for curling up with during the festive season. Walker’s storytelling leaves readers with a heartwarming sense of joy and renewal, making it an ideal pick for those looking for a feel-good tale filled with love, healing, and the spirit of the season.
Pages: 212 | ISBN : 1509257446
Struggling to Survive
The Witch of the Breton Woods follows a woman who is part of the French Resistance who gives aid to an American soldier only to discover she has been betrayed and reported to the leader of a paramilitary organization affiliated with the Germans. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I love the region of Brittany and discovered that there were approximately 35,000 members of the French Resistance in this area of northern France during World War II. I also learned that many of the Allied planes flying American paratroopers into Normandy for the D Day landing were plagued by severe thunderstorms, gale force winds, and German 88mm antiaircraft flak artillery guns. I decided to write a novel where a young healer–a member of the French Resistance, struggling to survive under the Nazi Occupation of France– finds a critically injured soldier. She hides him from the Nazis and la Milice–the French paramilitary organization that collaborated with the Germans and betrayed their own countrymen.
How much research did you undertake for this book to ensure the accuracy of the historical aspects, and how much time did it take to put it all together?
I did extensive research! In selecting the regiment for my American paratrooper protagonist, I chose a division of parachute infantrymen, researching their military orders, uniforms, gear, insignia, obstacles encountered, and adaptive strategies undertaken once they were dropped into Normandy and forged their way into Brittany. I researched Operation Cobra, Operation Neptune, the building of Hitler’s Atlantic Wall, the forced labor camps for Frenchmen under the Third Reich, the Battle of Brittany, and the specific details of the Battle of Saint-Malo, which is where my story culminates. I also researched the ranking of SS Officers, German tanks and artillery, and the Russian Cossack soldiers who were recruited by the Nazis to hunt down members of the French Resistance.
Do you have a favorite scene from your novel? One that was especially enjoyable to write?
One of the most memorable scenes was when Yvette sought “retribution.” I won’t say any more so as to not spoil the suspense for my readers.
What is the next book you are working on, and when will it be available?
I am currently writing Dragon of Denmark, book 1 of a Viking trilogy set in 10th century Normandy. It takes place during the time of Richard the Fearless, the Viking Duke of Normandy, and Harald Bluetooth, the Viking King of Denmark and Norway. I’m integrating historical fiction, Norse mythology, paranormal fantasy, and Viking historical romance into an epic trilogy!
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Website | Amazon
The Witch of the Breton Woods
In The Witch of Breton Woods, Jennifer Ivy Walker transports readers to the closing days of World War II, weaving a tale of resilience, danger, and unexpected romance. The novel follows Yvette, who, despite living alone in the Breton woods, becomes a crucial part of the French resistance led by her brother, les Loups’ leader. With her family’s brutal death at the hands of the Nazis fueling her resolve, Yvette refuses to let the war be confined to the front lines. Her resolve intensifies when she finds herself tending to a handsome American soldier whose plane has been shot down, making the conflict deeply personal as the Allies advance towards Normandy and the Nazis grow increasingly desperate.
Walker masterfully blends the serene beauty of the French countryside with the ever-present threat of the Nazi regime, creating a subtly unnerving atmosphere even in seemingly idyllic settings. The tension escalates when Yvette decides to shelter the injured American soldier, heightening the stakes and adding layers to the narrative. Despite the palpable tension, the novel skillfully manages to maintain a sense of hope and resilience for Yvette, les Loups, and their allies. Each crisis presents a timely and resourceful solution, keeping the story focused on the anticipation of the next challenge rather than dwelling on immediate danger. This approach allows the antagonists to cast a looming shadow over the narrative, adding a suspenseful undercurrent that enhances the readers’ engagement without overwhelming them with despair.
While the romance between Yvette and the American soldier is a central theme, I feel it occasionally overshadows other aspects of the story. The predictable nature of their relationship and the extensive focus on their romance detract somewhat from Yvette’s otherwise compelling character. Her journey from a strong, resourceful woman into a romantic plot device feels like a missed opportunity to explore her rich background and the fascinating dynamics of the resistance movement.
The novel excels in showcasing Yvette’s ingenuity and survival skills. Her ability to barter, grow, and create resources not only for herself but also for les Loups highlights her determination and cleverness. The resistance efforts depicted in the story are captivating, and readers may find themselves wishing for a deeper dive into these elements.
The Witch of Breton Woods captivates with its atmospheric setting and the intriguing premise of a solitary woman’s contribution to the resistance. The novel’s strengths lie in Yvette’s resilience and the tension that permeates her world. Walker offers a blend of historical intrigue and personal struggle, making it an engaging read for those interested in the complexities of war and the unexpected paths of love and survival.
Pages: 184 | ASIN : B0D3MDHMJ2
True Love Can Weather Any Storm
Flames of Flamenco follows a French teacher visiting Paris who falls in love with an artist and dancer and decides to remain in Paris with him. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I had my portrait sketched on la Place du Tertre in Montmartre–the bohemian heart of Paris. The intriguing artist with long black hair and sultry smile was the inspiration for Jean-Luc, the protagonist in Flames of Flamenco. He was also inspired by an intoxicating flamenco dancer named José that I met on a trip to Spain.
Do you believe that “love can conquer all” and that if you truly love someone deeply enough, you can weather any storm that arises, or is this just a dream that makes for great erotic love stories?
I do believe that love can conquer all and that true love can weather any storm that arises. Ella and Jean-Luc’s passion is a testament to that.
One of the challenges with Erotic Fiction is balancing the romance and the storyline; your books do this, allowing the narrative to flow smoothly. Could you tell me how you do this in your novels?
This novella was my first attempt at writing an erotic romance, so I was not at all sure how to balance the two. I wanted the focus to be on the storyline, not the steamy scenes, so I did a lot of research into Paris, Montmartre, la Fête des Vendanges (the annual wine harvest festival), le Musée de la Vie Romantique– as well as the distinct elements of flamenco itself–to develop the plot. I love how it all came together, like a bohemian rhapsody of art and dance, with passion and love at the core.
What is the next book you are working on, and when can your fans expect it to be out?
I am currently writing a Viking romance between a Celtic priestess from Bretagne–daughter of Richard the Fearless, Duke of Normandy–and her forced marriage to the Viking son of Harald Bluetooth, King of Norway and Denmark.
In the meantime, my WWII historical romance novel, The Witch of the Breton Woods, will be published in the spring of 2024. It’s the story of a traumatized young woman who finds and heals a wounded American paratrooper dropped into France for D-Day. Hiding him from the Gestapo and la Milice– the local French paramilitary organization that collaborates with the Nazis– she introduces him to the French Resistance (of which she is a member), and the two of them join the Allies in the Battle of Saint-Malo.
Author Links: Goodreads | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Website | Amazon
When he melts her frozen heart, she decides to remain in Paris and live with him, sharing his atelier as she designs and creates chic couture.
But a beautiful, beguiling curator invites Jean-Luc to display his paintings as the featured artist in the upcoming L’Art de la Danse exhibit, and the lure of international fame threatens his future with Ella.
Will jealousy and greed extinguish their passion, or will the flames of flamenco endure?
Flames of Flamenco
In Flames of Flamenco, by Jennifer Ivy Walker, readers are whisked away on a journey with Ella Jacob, a French teacher whose educational excursion to Paris transforms into an unexpected odyssey of passion. Her path converges with Jean Luc Cortes, a masterful French artist, and together they embark on a whirlwind romance that redefines the depths of desire against the vibrant backdrop of a Parisian summer. As the narrative unfolds, Ella finds herself at a crossroads, contemplating the future of her career and the intense love affair that has unexpectedly taken root. Walker eloquently captures the essence of an unforgettable summer, where the fiery passion of romance is ignited amidst the artistic tapestry of Paris.
Flames of Flamenco caters to the aficionados of erotic romance, delivering a potent concoction of love and sensuality. Walker’s vivid portrayal of the couple’s passionate encounters ensures an immersive experience for readers. The novel’s focus on the primary storyline, devoid of extraneous subplots, allows for an undistracted immersion into Ella and Jean Luc’s fervent journey. The book tantalizes readers with the potential for a richer exploration of Jean Luc’s character, especially his intriguing fears and vulnerabilities. Moreover, the inclusion of conflicts like Colette Ducharme’s scandal intriguingly opens doors for a more evolved and gratifying resolution. The story’s intense romantic core remains its triumphant feature. The author adeptly sustains a palpable sense of excitement and anticipation, captivating readers with the potent and intoxicating allure of a love affair set in the romantic heart of Paris.
Despite treading on familiar ground, Flames of Flamenco guarantees a deeply emotional odyssey, captivating readers and leaving them eager to unravel the destiny of this fervent summer love affair.
Pages: 120 | ASIN : B0CKY742G8
An Unforgettable Experience
Amour in Avignon follows a struggling young woman who travels to Provence, southern France, to visit her aunt and joins a thespian troupe where she finds romance. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I was a high school French teacher and college professor who was one of 15 recipients of a National Endowment of the Humanities Scholarship for Teachers to participate in Le Festival d’ Avignon, the world-famous Festival of Theater which attracts 500,000 people each year to the vibrant city of Avignon, in the south of France. While I was there for the month of July 2009, I studied (and even performed in!) French plays and attended live performances of all types of theater: classical tragedies, puppet shows, flamenco dances, comedies, musicals, and avant-garde presentations of Theater of the Absurd. It was an unforgettable experience and the inspiration for my novella.
Why choose this place and time for the setting of the story?
I LOVE the south of France and the region of Provence, and I was captivated by the city of Avignon, which is famous for le Palais des Papes–the Palace of the Popes–where the papacy was transferred from Rome during the 14th century. I felt that with the rich history, beautiful setting, and vibrancy of the Festival of Theater, Avignon would be the perfect backdrop for a contemporary romance.
What was the inspiration for the love story and the connection the characters have?
While earning my MA in French literature, I read the classical tragedy, Cyrano de Bergerac. I absolutely adored the film of the same name with Gérard Depardieu, Vincent Perez, and Anne Brochet. My novella, Amour in Avignon, is a modern retelling of Cyrano de Bergerac, set amidst the backdrop of le Festival d’ Avignon. As in the original work by Edmond Rostand, Amour in Avignon features two best friends who fall in love with the same woman. My protagonist, Ludovic Brissac, and antagonist, Auguste DesMoulins, are expert fencers, just as Cyrano and Christian are skilled swordsmen in the classic play.
What will the next book in that series be about and when will it be published?
Although Amour in Avignon is a stand-alone novella, I have written another steamy, contemporary French romance, Flames of Flamenco, which takes place in Montmartre, the bohemian heart of Paris. It’s the story of an American teacher who travels to Paris to study language and culture and meets a talented painter who is also a passionate flamenco dancer. She becomes his Muse as he introduces her to the secret delights of the City of Light.
Author Links: Goodreads | Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram
When Lily joins their thespian troupe, portraying the lead female role, she discovers that real life mirrors the play they are rehearsing, for–just as Cyrano and Christian vie for Roxane– Ludo and Auguste become intense rivals for Lily.
Handsome as a Hollywood movie star, Auguste is used to women falling into his bed. But when Lily spurns his amorous advances, drawn instead to the enigmatic Ludo, jealousy drives Auguste to seek revenge.
Will tragedy strike with a cruel twist of fate? Or will love triumph with Amour in Avignon?
la loi salique
Winter Solstice in the Crystal Castle follows a French princess who wishes to become Valkyrie warrior queen but instead is being forced home to marry a man she does not love. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I am a former high school teacher and college professor of French with a passion for medieval French history. I love the region of Bretagne (Brittany in English) and especially the legends and myths from the enchanted Forest of Brocéliande, birthplace of Merlin, the Lady of the Lake Viviane and Lancelot, King Arthur’s First Knight of Camelot.
When I was an undergraduate student, I spent a summer studying abroad in Normandy and was fascinated by the Viking influences and heritage in that region. So, I decided to create a story of a fiery French princess of Finistère in Bretagne whose ancestors were Viking Valkyrie.
What were some of the emotional and moral guidelines you followed when developing your characters?
In the Middle Ages, knights were sworn to the moral principles of chivalry, such as fierce loyalty to God, their king, and their country. They also swore to protect and defend women, children, the weak and the sick.
These moral principles created the inner conflict of my hero, Sir Bastien de Landuc, the royal guard appointed to defend Princess Gabrielle who has suffered an impossible love for her since adolescence.
Historical fiction takes a lot of research to get the right feel even if the storyline is not real.
Did you find anything in your research of this story that surprised you?
No, but I wanted to bring in something I had learned in my studies of French history that I felt was horribly unfair to women. There is an archaic law–la loi salique-– which dates back to the 5th century and the Frankish king Clovis. According to this law, women could not inherit a kingdom nor rule in their own right. Their titles and property became the possession of their husbands. I wanted to show how unfair this law was to Princess Gabrielle, who was facing a forced marriage for this reason.
Will there be a follow up novel to this story? If so, what aspects of the story will the next book cover?
Yes, I have signed a publishing contract for A Celtic Yuletide Carol, the story of Sir Cardin de Landuc–Bastien’s brother– and his struggle with grief and guilt when his young wife dies in childbirth and he forsakes his newborn son. I am also writing another follow-up, the story of Sir Gaultier, Bastien and Cardin’s oldest brother, who defends King Philippe of France’s claim to the distant land of Aquitaine on the Spanish border in southwestern France.
My current work in progress is A Nordic Yuletide Wish, the story of Princess Gabrielle’s ancestor Ylva, the descendant of Rollo, first Viking chieftain of Normandy. It is both a follow up to Winter Solstice in the Crystal Castle and a gateway to a planned Viking trilogy that I will write in the near future.
Author Links: Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram
Chivalrous, solitary knight Sir Bastien de Landuc suffers an impossible love for Gabrielle, the unattainable princess he can never have. Without a title of nobility, he is ineligible to compete in the tournament for her hand in marriage, despite his unparalleled equestrian skills and inimitable swordsmanship.
Yet, Yuletide wishes for a wondrous winter solstice in the glorious Crystal Castle might make impossible dreams come true.
Can the valiant knight win the coveted hand of his Viking Valkyrie?
Amour in Avignon
In Amour in Avignon, author Jennifer Ivy Walker presents a narrative steeped in the rich tapestry of the French Riviera, elegantly intertwining elements of romance and adventure. The protagonist, Lily Greene, finds herself at her aunt’s villa in Provence, France, seeking solitude after a challenging breakup. There, she meets Ludo and Auguste, two compelling fencers whose refined demeanors captivate her.
As Lily volunteers to play the female lead in a local production of Cyrano de Bergerac, involving Ludo and Auguste, she begins to notice parallels between the play’s narrative and her own complex emotions. Walker skillfully uses this setup to explore themes of longing and the intricacies of human relationships. Lily’s interactions with Auguste, known for his romantic pursuits, and the increasingly charming Ludo create a simmering tension that threatens the stability of their friendships. Walker’s narrative prowess is on full display as she crafts a sensual and immersive world in Amour in Avignon. The book is rich in descriptive details, painting a vivid picture of the setting and the internal landscape of desires and tensions experienced by Lily.
This erotic adult fantasy novel is an exploration of intimate connections, offering a captivating journey into the allure of passion. What stands out in this novel is its ability to blend the escapism of travel with the introspective journey of romance. The beauty and culture of Provence serve as a backdrop for the unfolding drama, adding depth to the story. Amour in Avignon is a testament to Walker’s ability to weave a tale that is as much about the discovery of self as it is about the exploration of desire.
For those drawn to narratives that delve into the complexities of romance and sensuality set against a backdrop of cultural richness, Amour in Avignon is a compelling read. It’s an exploration of the nuances of desire and the unexpected paths of the heart, set in a world where every detail is rendered with care and sensuality.
Pages: 94 | ASIN : B0CJH6FSSV
