Title: The Wicked Sister
Author: Virginia Barlow
Genre: Historical Romance
Book Blurb:
With her stepfather’s sudden death, Lady Anastasia Covington goes from living a privileged lifestyle to selling vegetables in the village marketplace in the blink of an eye. Alone and at the mercy of her nefarious stepsister, she yearns for love and acceptance.
Disguised as a simple soldier, Prince Percival catches a dark-haired emerald-eyed beauty in his arms. He is bewitched. The more he sees her, the more intrigued he is by her contradictions. Forced to keep his identity a secret, he must somehow convince Lady Anastasia he is the right man for her.
But time is running out. Lady Anastasia’s mother is determined to find a proper suitor and see her wed-and someone wants her dead.
Excerpt:
As she walked down the narrow streets, she realized how empty they were. The villagers had all gone to their homes, leaving the streets pretty much deserted. Anastasia decided she better hurry. As she walked along, she became aware of heavy footfalls behind her. Who was following? Was it a man? The sounds were too heavy to belong to a woman or a child. Anastasia hurried faster. The footfalls behind matched her speed. Anastasia crossed the road and quickened her pace. She heard the footfalls cross the street, also. Her breathing became fast and erratic. Fear caused her to trip. She caught herself against a building and stiffened as the footfalls came closer. Oh God! She started to run, and as she ran past a narrow alley, she was caught about the waist. A man’s strong arm pulled her around the corner. Anastasia let go of her baskets and hit the man with her fists. The man was very large and her puny attempts to fend him off had no effect. The man pulled her tightly into his chest, wrapped both his massive arms around her slight form, and covered her mouth with his!
She breathed in deeply preparing herself to fight, and suddenly, she knew who was kissing her. Val! His wonderful scent was all around her, his arms holding her close. She was pressed against the heat of him from chest to knee. He tipped her head a little to the side and licked at her lips. She gasped in surprise and he thrust his tongue into her mouth. His tongue began to stroke her tongue and to explore her mouth. She trembled with emotion and sensations such as she had never known before. Fear heightened her senses and now she was keenly aware of his scent, his strength, his warmth, and his mouth. Anastasia wrapped her arms around his waist and pressed herself closer to him. Somehow despite the assault he unleashed on her senses, she knew she was safe. She knew he would protect her and keep her from harm.
Buy Links:
Barnes and Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-wicked-sister-virginia-barlow/1135068669?ean=9781509228218
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My favorite way to combat stress is to go for a walk. I also like to play with my grandchildren. They make me happy.
Why is your featured book a stress busting read?
My book is a classic fairy tale with a twist. It is familiar, like an old friend. Comforting like a cup of coffee on a cold morning and intriguing as a new type of wine. It will take you to a different place and time with plenty of action and drama. There is family and friends, and there is love. It will leave you with a warm feeling like a soft fuzzy blanket on a winter’s night.
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Open internationally.
Runs May 1 – June 3.
Drawing will be held on June 4.
Author Biography:
I have read romance books for years. I started when I was twelve. My mom kept them hidden under her bed and my sister and I would sneak them out and read them. When I got older, they became an escape for me. I would put my children to bed and read to destress. I am often asked which author influenced me the most. It is hard to pick one favorite when I have so many that I admire. I am easy maintenance. I enjoy crocheting and knitting. I cook and bake, not because I enjoy it, but because it is a necessary evil. I sew and quilt. But mostly, I write. It is where I get my happy from.
Social Media Links:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Virgini35142126
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/virginia.barlow/
AllAuthor: https://allauthor.com/author/virginiabarlow/