#Spring has finally sprung! This past week has been filled with sweet moments of #hope that we may be emerging from the darkness of #lockdown and into the #light...Sunny weather has arrived, my latest #book is almost ready to release, and #knock wood--we may be getting ready to hit the friendly skies, ships, roads soon!
This week I thought I'd share a few pics of a springtime visit to the Biltmore Estate in Asheville N.C. that we took a few years back. The scenic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains are breathtaking; the gardens a delight to walk through; and for castle lovers, this is one of the best places in the States to get your palatial fixations met!
I was glad to see that this beautiful site is now open for visitors. They are abiding by social distancing, mask mandates and operating restaurants on the estate at 50% capacity at this time. The great thing about this location is that there are so many outdoor exhibits to explore you won't feel too cramped and what a joy to be out in the sunshine at this opulent locale!
Garden inspiration galore!
Where ever you may live, I hope that the lockdown restrictions are lifting and you can start to enjoy some of the freedoms we lost this past year. We haven't been able to get our jabs yet, but hopefully will in the next month or so. We are planning a few road trips and have even (gasp) made restaurant reservations for our Viking Ocean Cruise touring Sweden, Russia, Estonia and Denmark in early June. I'm not so sure countries/borders will be globally opened in time for this cruise to actually embark in June, but for now, we're hopeful!
I've seen a lot of Twitter chat about gardens and plantings this past week. We don't have that much outdoor space here in our California abode for a garden, but I do like to have fresh herbs on hand for salads and seasonings. I always have basil, dill, rosemary, tarragon and parsley planted. I'm very proud to say that a special kumquat tree that was gifted to me after Double Trouble released is now bearing a few fruits. I know how Gemma loves those candied kumquats--I may be making up a batch soon! Here's to a wonderful, bountiful #spring filled with outdoor excursions! It's Wednesday, time for #DearDiary:
Twins in the City release is getting closer (and that's no #AprilFools)!
Busy times, but what a joy to see your book baby getting close to its release! A very special thanks to Bibiana Krall and her Compass Bespoke Creative Services! She's handling all the behind the scenes technical tasks that need to be completed before your book can go on sale. It's a pleasure to work with her and I love the end products! We're on track for the big #AprilFoolsDay release--it's going to be a fun day!
This week I am eternally grateful to one of my ARC readers, Jena Henry. As soon as Twins in the City went live on #Goodreads this past Sunday, Jena posted a fabulous 5⭐ #bookreview for Twins. I cannot tell you how much I appreciate the time taken to read and write the review for my latest book...#Grateful 🙏🌷 It doesn't get much better than this folks...
“My American Almost-Royal Cousin Series” now has a Book 6 in the series! And it has a stunning cover. “Twins in the City- Playtime at Castlewood Manor” by Veronica Cline Barton is the best book in the series. Of course, I say that about every book in this snazzy series- but “Twins in the City” truly is delightful! As I was reading the book, I described it as “stellar- sophisticated, witty, delightful…”
Now that I’ve finished “Twins in the City” I can confidently say that this book has it all. Royalty, almost-royalty, a Bermuda vacation, London luxury, “aristo-chic” fashion, enticing edibles, sophisticated parties, elegant abodes- what more could a reader ask for?
How about a marvelous main character, Gemma, aka Lady Gemma Lancaster Williams, Marchioness of Kentshire? She is a lovely person who has grown into her almost-royal role- beautiful, confident, fun, warm and affectionate. Gemma is a good friend to all. She is married to the perfect gentleman, Sir Kyle, and now they are proud parents. So sweet to read about Gemma and Kyle’s adorable twins who are cuddly, cute and quite entertaining!
Other favorite characters appear and add their flair to the story. Figgy the nanny with her smudge stick and her sister are now beloved figures. Mama, the famous actress and glamorous “Glammie” takes a starring role all in stride. Other friends, royal and non-royal make the story come alive.
And what a story it is! This book series is known for its cozy mysteries and Book 6 involves a theatrical murder. Clever hints are planted, and readers will again be thrilled by the frightening denouement of the whodunnit. And Gemma has a surprising twist to share as well.
The plot flows effortlessly thanks to the storytelling skills of Ms. Cline Barton. “Twins in the City” weaves delightful details of a royal world that is splendid and enticing along with characters that are well-developed and easy to admire and bond with. Humor, despair, happiness and concerns are mixed with a gorgeous lifestyle that guarantee this book will be your favorite. Highly recommend.
Thanks to the author for an advance digital review copy. This is my honest review.
Just WOW! 💖👑 #ThankYou #BookLovers
Trouble in paradise this week from the writers of Twitter...
Author Amy Reade, House of the Hanging Jade, 5⭐
When chef Kailani Kanaka decides to leave the frigid temps in Washington D.C. to return to her roots on the big island of Hawaii, she looks forward to the warm weather activities and having her family close-by once again. A dream job as personal chef for the affluent Jorgensen family gives her a stunning venue to live and work in. All seems perfect at the House of Hanging Jade that overlooks the sea, but she soon finds that the family's personal issues and an ex-boyfriend's unwanted arrival on the island may tarnish her fresh start.
Secret relationships, a sudden death and a shark attack at sea put a strain on Kailani as she slowly bonds with the members of the family and lends a friendly ear to sort out some of the issues they face. Her ex is getting more aggressive as she tries to convince him to stay away, will he ever realize their relationship is over? Strange occurrences and another death bring the police in to investigate. Will they find the person(s) behind the violence?
Author Reade weaves a tale of mystery and intrigue in an idyllic, island setting. As the dangers escalate, you hold your breath, waiting to see what will happen next. This is a thriller that will delight the senses and keep you guessing time and time again. A tale of suspense and family dramas, highly recommended!
Next up in the #reading queue:
Bibiana Krall is on deck this week talking about the all important opening lines! It's a must have #writers, to attract those #readers. See you soon!
Crowns and Kisses,
Veronica
P.S. Twins in the City: Playtime at Castlewood Manor will be available for pre-order soon! Thank you for all your support---Gemma and Rikkhe most definitely approve! 💖👑
We should all meet at the Biltmore! Thank you for featuring my review- it’s always easy to review a delightful book I love! Happy Spring!