text:
using base::StringPiece;
using std::map;
using std::numeric_limits;
using std::ostream;
using std::string;

namespace net {

size_t GetPacketHeaderSize(const QuicPacketHeader& header) {
  return GetPacketHeaderSize(header.public_header.connection_id_length,
                             header.public_header.version_flag,
                             header.public_header.sequence_number_length,
                             header.is_in_fec_group);
}

size_t GetPacketHeaderSize(QuicConnectionIdLength connection_id_length,
                           bool include_version,
                           QuicSequenceNumberLength sequence_number_length,
                           InFecGroup is_in_fec_group) {
  return kPublicFlagsSize + connection_id_length +
      (include_version ? kQuicVersionSize : 0) + sequence_number_length +
      kPrivateFlagsSize + (is_in_fec_group == IN_FEC_GROUP ? kFecGroupSize : 0);
}

size_t GetStartOfFecProtectedData(
    QuicConnectionIdLength connection_id_length,
    bool include_version,
    QuicSequenceNumberLength sequence_number_length) {
  return GetPacketHeaderSize(connection_id_length,
                             include_version,
                             sequence_number_length,
                             IN_FEC_GROUP);
}

size_t GetStartOfEncryptedData(
    QuicConnectionIdLength connection_id_length,
    bool include_version,
    QuicSequenceNumberLength sequence_number_length) {
  // Don't include the fec size, since encryption starts before private flags.
  return GetPacketHeaderSize(connection_id_length,
                             include_version,
                             sequence_number_length,
                             NOT_IN_FEC_GROUP) - kPrivateFlagsSize;
}

QuicPacketPublicHeader::QuicPacketPublicHeader()
    : connection_id(0),
      connection_id_length(PACKET_8BYTE_CONNECTION_ID),
      reset_flag(false),
      version_flag(false),
      sequence_number_length(PACKET_6BYTE_SEQUENCE_NUMBER) {
}

QuicPacketPublicHeader::QuicPacketPublicHeader(
    const QuicPacketPublicHeader& other)
    : connection_id(other.connection_id),
      connection_id_length(other.connection_id_length),
      reset_flag(other.reset_flag),
      version_flag(other.version_flag),
      sequence_number_length(other.sequence_number_length),
      versions(other.versions) {
}

QuicPacketPublicHeader::~QuicPacketPublicHeader() {}

QuicPacketHeader::QuicPacketHeader()
    : packet_sequence_number(0),
      fec_flag(false),
      entropy_flag(false),
      entropy_hash(0),
      is_in_fec_group(NOT_IN_FEC_GROUP),
      fec_group(0) {
}

QuicPacketHeader::QuicPacketHeader(const QuicPacketPublicHeader& header)
    : public_header(header),
      packet_sequence_number(0),
      fec_flag(false),
      entropy_flag(false),
      entropy_hash(0),
      is_in_fec_group(NOT_IN_FEC_GROUP),
      fec_group(0) {
}

QuicPublicResetPacket::QuicPublicResetPacket()
    : nonce_proof(0),
      rejected_sequence_number(0) {}

QuicPublicResetPacket::QuicPublicResetPacket(
    const QuicPacketPublicHeader& header)
    : public_header(header),
      nonce_proof(0),
      rejected_sequence_number(0) {}

QuicStreamFrame::QuicStreamFrame() : stream_id(0), fin(false), offset(0) {
}

QuicStreamFrame::QuicStreamFrame(const QuicStreamFrame& frame)
    : stream_id(frame.stream_id),
      fin(frame.fin),
      offset(frame.offset),
      data(frame.data) {
}

QuicStreamFrame::QuicStreamFrame(QuicStreamId stream_id,
                                 bool fin,
                                 QuicStreamOffset offset,
                                 StringPiece data)
    : stream_id(stream_id), fin(fin), offset(offset), data(data) {
}

uint32 MakeQuicTag(char a, char b, char c, char d) {
  return static_cast<uint32>(a) |
         static_cast<uint32>(b) << 8 |
         static_cast<uint32>(c) << 16 |
         static_cast<uint32>(d) << 24;
}

bool ContainsQuicTag(const QuicTagVector& tag_vector, QuicTag tag) {
  return std::find(tag_vector.begin(), tag_vector.end(),  tag)
      != tag_vector.end();
}

QuicVersionVector QuicSupportedVersions() {
  QuicVersionVector supported_versions;
  for (size_t i = 0; i < arraysize(kSupportedQuicVersions); ++i) {
    supported_versions.push_back(kSupportedQuicVersions[i]);
  }
  return supported_versions;
}

QuicTag QuicVersionToQuicTag(const QuicVersion version) {
  switch (version) {
    case QUIC_VERSION_24:
      return MakeQuicTag('Q', '0', '2', '4');
    case QUIC_VERSION_25:
      return MakeQuicTag('Q', '0', '2', '5');
    default:
      // This shold be an ERROR because we should never attempt to convert an
      // invalid QuicVersion to be written to the wire.
      LOG(ERROR) << "Unsupported QuicVersion: " << version;
      return 0;
  }
}

QuicVersion QuicTagToQuicVersion(const QuicTag version_tag) {
  for (size_t i = 0; i < arraysize(kSupportedQuicVersions); ++i) {
    if (version_tag == QuicVersionToQuicTag(kSupportedQuicVersions[i])) {
      return kSupportedQuicVersions[i];
    }
  }
  // Reading from the client so this should not be considered an ERROR.
  DVLOG(1) << "Unsupported QuicTag version: "
           << QuicUtils::TagToString(version_tag);
  return QUIC_VERSION_UNSUPPORTED;
}

#define RETURN_STRING_LITERAL(x) \
case x: \
return #x

string QuicVersionToString(const QuicVersion version) {
  switch (version) {
    RETURN_STRING_LITERAL(QUIC_VERSION_24);
    RETURN_STRING_LITERAL(QUIC_VERSION_25);
    default:
      return "QUIC_VERSION_UNSUPPORTED";
  }
}

string QuicVersionVectorToString(const QuicVersionVector& versions) {
  string result = "";
  for (size_t i = 0; i < versions.size(); ++i) {
    if (i != 0) {
      result.append(",");
    }
    result.append(QuicVersionToString(versions[i]));
  }
  return result;
}

ostream& operator<<(ostream& os, const Perspective& s) {
  if (s == Perspective::IS_SERVER) {
    os << "IS_SERVER";
  } else {
    os << "IS_CLIENT";
  }
  return os;
}

ostream& operator<<(ostream& os, const QuicPacketHeader& header) {
  os << "{ connection_id: " << header.public_header.connection_id
     << ", connection_id_length:" << header.public_header.connection_id_length
     << ", sequence_number_length:"
     << header.public_header.sequence_number_length
     << ", reset_flag: " << header.public_header.reset_flag
     << ", version_flag: " << header.public_header.version_flag;
  if (header.public_header.version_flag) {
    os << " version: ";
    for (size_t i = 0; i < header.public_header.versions.size(); ++i) {
      os << header.public_header.versions[i] << " ";
    }
  }
  os << ", fec_flag: " << header.fec_flag
     << ", entropy_flag: " << header.entropy_flag
     << ", entropy hash: " << static_cast<int>(header.entropy_hash)
     << ", sequence_number: " << header.packet_sequence_number
     << ", is_in_fec_group:" << header.is_in_fec_group
     << ", fec_group: " << header.fec_group<< "}\n";
  return os;
}

bool IsAwaitingPacket(const QuicAckFrame& ack_frame,
                      QuicPacketSequenceNumber sequence_number) {
  return sequence_number > ack_frame.largest_observed ||
      ContainsKey(ack_frame.missing_packets, sequence_number);
}

void InsertMissingPacketsBetween(QuicAckFrame* ack_frame,
                                 QuicPacketSequenceNumber lower,
                                 QuicPacketSequenceNumber higher) {
  for (QuicPacketSequenceNumber i = lower; i < higher; ++i) {
    ack_frame->missing_packets.insert(i);
  }
}

QuicStopWaitingFrame::QuicStopWaitingFrame()
    : entropy_hash(0),
      least_unacked(0) {
}

QuicStopWaitingFrame::~QuicStopWaitingFrame() {}

QuicAckFrame::QuicAckFrame()
    : entropy_hash(0),
      largest_observed(0),
      delta_time_largest_observed(QuicTime::Delta::Infinite()),
      is_truncated(false) {}

QuicAckFrame::~QuicAckFrame() {}

QuicRstStreamErrorCode AdjustErrorForVersion(
    QuicRstStreamErrorCode error_code,
    QuicVersion version) {
  return error_code;
}

QuicRstStreamFrame::QuicRstStreamFrame()
    : stream_id(0), error_code(QUIC_STREAM_NO_ERROR), byte_offset(0) {}

QuicRstStreamFrame::QuicRstStreamFrame(QuicStreamId stream_id,
                                       QuicRstStreamErrorCode error_code,
                                       QuicStreamOffset bytes_written)
    : stream_id(stream_id),
      error_code(error_code),
      byte_offset(bytes_written) {
  DCHECK_LE(error_code, numeric_limits<uint8>::max());
}

QuicConnectionCloseFrame::QuicConnectionCloseFrame()
    : error_code(QUIC_NO_ERROR) {
}

QuicFrame::QuicFrame() {}

QuicFrame::QuicFrame(QuicPaddingFrame* padding_frame)
    : type(PADDING_FRAME),
      padding_frame(padding_frame) {
}

QuicFrame::QuicFrame(QuicStreamFrame* stream_frame)
    : type(STREAM_FRAME),
      stream_frame(stream_frame) {
}

QuicFrame::QuicFrame(QuicAckFrame* frame)
    : type(ACK_FRAME),
      ack_frame(frame) {
}

QuicFrame::QuicFrame(QuicMtuDiscoveryFrame* frame)
    : type(MTU_DISCOVERY_FRAME), mtu_discovery_frame(frame) {
}

QuicFrame::QuicFrame(QuicStopWaitingFrame* frame)
    : type(STOP_WAITING_FRAME),
      stop_waiting_frame(frame) {
}

QuicFrame::QuicFrame(QuicPingFrame* frame)
    : type(PING_FRAME),
      ping_frame(frame) {
}

QuicFrame::QuicFrame(QuicRstStreamFrame* frame)
    : type(RST_STREAM_FRAME),
      rst_stream_frame(frame) {
}

QuicFrame::QuicFrame(QuicConnectionCloseFrame* frame)
    : type(CONNECTION_CLOSE_FRAME),
      connection_close_frame(frame) {
}

QuicFrame::QuicFrame(QuicGoAwayFrame* frame)
    : type(GOAWAY_FRAME),
      goaway_frame(frame) {
}

QuicFrame::QuicFrame(QuicWindowUpdateFrame* frame)
    : type(WINDOW_UPDATE_FRAME),
      window_update_frame(frame) {
}

QuicFrame::QuicFrame(QuicBlockedFrame* frame)
    : type(BLOCKED_FRAME),
      blocked_frame(frame) {
}

QuicFecData::QuicFecData() : fec_group(0) {}

ostream& operator<<(ostream& os, const QuicStopWaitingFrame& sent_info) {
  os << "entropy_hash: " << static_cast<int>(sent_info.entropy_hash)
     << " least_unacked: " << sent_info.least_unacked;
  return os;
}

ostream& operator<<(ostream& os, const QuicAckFrame& ack_frame) {
  os << "entropy_hash: " << static_cast<int>(ack_frame.entropy_hash)
     << " largest_observed: " << ack_frame.largest_observed
     << " delta_time_largest_observed: "
     << ack_frame.delta_time_largest_observed.ToMicroseconds()
     << " missing_packets: [ ";
  for (SequenceNumberSet::const_iterator it = ack_frame.missing_packets.begin();
       it != ack_frame.missing_packets.end(); ++it) {
    os << *it << " ";
  }
  os << " ] is_truncated: " << ack_frame.is_truncated;
  os << " revived_packets: [ ";
  for (SequenceNumberSet::const_iterator it = ack_frame.revived_packets.begin();
       it != ack_frame.revived_packets.end(); ++it) {
    os << *it << " ";
  }
  os << " ] received_packets: [ ";
  for (PacketTimeList::const_iterator it =
           ack_frame.received_packet_times.begin();
           it != ack_frame.received_packet_times.end(); ++it) {
    os << it->first << " at " << it->second.ToDebuggingValue() << " ";
  }
  os << " ]";
  return os;
}

ostream& operator<<(ostream& os, const QuicFrame& frame) {
  switch (frame.type) {
  case PADDING_FRAME: {
      os << "type { PADDING_FRAME } ";
      break;
    }
    case RST_STREAM_FRAME: {
      os << "type { RST_STREAM_FRAME } " << *(frame.rst_stream_frame);
      break;
    }
    case CONNECTION_CLOSE_FRAME: {
      os << "type { CONNECTION_CLOSE_FRAME } "
         << *(frame.connection_close_frame);
      break;
    }
    case GOAWAY_FRAME: {
      os << "type { GOAWAY_FRAME } " << *(frame.goaway_frame);
      break;
    }
    case WINDOW_UPDATE_FRAME: {
      os << "type { WINDOW_UPDATE_FRAME } " << *(frame.window_update_frame);
      break;
    }
    case BLOCKED_FRAME: {
      os << "type { BLOCKED_FRAME } " << *(frame.blocked_frame);
      break;
    }
    case STREAM_FRAME: {
      os << "type { STREAM_FRAME } " << *(frame.stream_frame);
      break;
    }
    case ACK_FRAME: {
      os << "type { ACK_FRAME } " << *(frame.ack_frame);
      break;
    }
    case STOP_WAITING_FRAME: {
      os << "type { STOP_WAITING_FRAME } " << *(frame.stop_waiting_frame);
      break;
    }
    case PING_FRAME: {
      os << "type { PING_FRAME } ";
      break;
    }
    case MTU_DISCOVERY_FRAME: {
      os << "type { MTU_DISCOVERY_FRAME } ";
      break;
    }
    default: {
      LOG(ERROR) << "Unknown frame type: " << frame.type;
      break;
    }
  }
  return os;
}

ostream& operator<<(ostream& os, const QuicRstStreamFrame& rst_frame) {
  os << "stream_id { " << rst_frame.stream_id << " } "
     << "error_code { " << rst_frame.error_code << " } "
     << "error_details { " << rst_frame.error_details << " }\n";
  return os;
}

ostream& operator<<(ostream& os,
                    const QuicConnectionCloseFrame& connection_close_frame) {
  os << "error_code { " << connection_close_frame.error_code << " } "
     << "error_details { " << connection_close_frame.error_details << " }\n";
  return os;
}

ostream& operator<<(ostream& os, const QuicGoAwayFrame& goaway_frame) {
  os << "error_code { " << goaway_frame.error_code << " } "
     << "last_good_stream_id { " << goaway_frame.last_good_stream_id << " } "
     << "reason_phrase { " << goaway_frame.reason_phrase << " }\n";
  return os;
}

ostream& operator<<(ostream& os,
                    const QuicWindowUpdateFrame& window_update_frame) {
  os << "stream_id { " << window_update_frame.stream_id << " } "
     << "byte_offset { " << window_update_frame.byte_offset << " }\n";
  return os;
}

ostream& operator<<(ostream& os, const QuicBlockedFrame& blocked_frame) {
  os << "stream_id { " << blocked_frame.stream_id << " }\n";
  return os;
}

ostream& operator<<(ostream& os, const QuicStreamFrame& stream_frame) {
  os << "stream_id { " << stream_frame.stream_id << " } "
     << "fin { " << stream_frame.fin << " } "
     << "offset { " << stream_frame.offset << " } "
     << "data { " << QuicUtils::StringToHexASCIIDump(stream_frame.data)
     << " }\n";
  return os;
}

QuicGoAwayFrame::QuicGoAwayFrame()
    : error_code(QUIC_NO_ERROR),
      last_good_stream_id(0) {
}

QuicGoAwayFrame::QuicGoAwayFrame(QuicErrorCode error_code,
                                 QuicStreamId last_good_stream_id,
                                 const string& reason)
    : error_code(error_code),
      last_good_stream_id(last_good_stream_id),
      reason_phrase(reason) {
  DCHECK_LE(error_code, numeric_limits<uint8>::max());
}

QuicData::QuicData(const char* buffer,
                   size_t length)
    : buffer_(buffer),
      length_(length),
      owns_buffer_(false) {
}

QuicData::QuicData(char* buffer,
                   size_t length,
                   bool owns_buffer)
    : buffer_(buffer),
      length_(length),
      owns_buffer_(owns_buffer) {
}

QuicData::~QuicData() {
  if (owns_buffer_) {
    delete [] const_cast<char*>(buffer_);
  }
}

QuicWindowUpdateFrame::QuicWindowUpdateFrame(QuicStreamId stream_id,
                                             QuicStreamOffset byte_offset)
    : stream_id(stream_id),
      byte_offset(byte_offset) {}

QuicBlockedFrame::QuicBlockedFrame(QuicStreamId stream_id)
    : stream_id(stream_id) {}

QuicPacket::QuicPacket(char* buffer,
                       size_t length,
                       bool owns_buffer,
                       QuicConnectionIdLength connection_id_length,
                       bool includes_version,
                       QuicSequenceNumberLength sequence_number_length)
    : QuicData(buffer, length, owns_buffer),
      buffer_(buffer),
      connection_id_length_(connection_id_length),
      includes_version_(includes_version),
      sequence_number_length_(sequence_number_length) {
}

QuicEncryptedPacket::QuicEncryptedPacket(const char* buffer,
                                         size_t length)
    : QuicData(buffer, length) {
}

QuicEncryptedPacket::QuicEncryptedPacket(char* buffer,
                                         size_t length,
                                         bool owns_buffer)
      : QuicData(buffer, length, owns_buffer) {
}

StringPiece QuicPacket::FecProtectedData() const {
  const size_t start_of_fec = GetStartOfFecProtectedData(
      connection_id_length_, includes_version_, sequence_number_length_);
  return StringPiece(data() + start_of_fec, length() - start_of_fec);
}

StringPiece QuicPacket::AssociatedData() const {
  return StringPiece(
      data() + kStartOfHashData,
      GetStartOfEncryptedData(
          connection_id_length_, includes_version_, sequence_number_length_) -
      kStartOfHashData);
}

StringPiece QuicPacket::BeforePlaintext() const {
  return StringPiece(data(), GetStartOfEncryptedData(connection_id_length_,
                                                     includes_version_,
                                                     sequence_number_length_));
}

StringPiece QuicPacket::Plaintext() const {
  const size_t start_of_encrypted_data =
      GetStartOfEncryptedData(
          connection_id_length_, includes_version_, sequence_number_length_);
  return StringPiece(data() + start_of_encrypted_data,
                     length() - start_of_encrypted_data);
}

RetransmittableFrames::RetransmittableFrames(EncryptionLevel level)
    : encryption_level_(level),
      has_crypto_handshake_(NOT_HANDSHAKE),
      needs_padding_(false) {
}

RetransmittableFrames::~RetransmittableFrames() {
  for (QuicFrames::iterator it = frames_.begin(); it != frames_.end(); ++it) {
    switch (it->type) {
      case PADDING_FRAME:
        delete it->padding_frame;
        break;
      case STREAM_FRAME:
        delete it->stream_frame;
        break;
      case ACK_FRAME:
        delete it->ack_frame;
        break;
      case MTU_DISCOVERY_FRAME:
        delete it->mtu_discovery_frame;
        break;
      case STOP_WAITING_FRAME:
        delete it->stop_waiting_frame;
        break;
      case PING_FRAME:
        delete it->ping_frame;
        break;
      case RST_STREAM_FRAME:
        delete it->rst_stream_frame;
        break;
      case CONNECTION_CLOSE_FRAME:
        delete it->connection_close_frame;
        break;
      case GOAWAY_FRAME:
        delete it->goaway_frame;
        break;
      case WINDOW_UPDATE_FRAME:
        delete it->window_update_frame;
        break;
      case BLOCKED_FRAME:
        delete it->blocked_frame;
        break;
      case NUM_FRAME_TYPES:
        DCHECK(false) << "Cannot delete type: " << it->type;
    }
  }
  for (const char* buffer : stream_data_) {
    delete[] buffer;
  }
}

const QuicFrame& RetransmittableFrames::AddFrame(const QuicFrame& frame) {
  return AddFrame(frame, nullptr);
}

const QuicFrame& RetransmittableFrames::AddFrame(const QuicFrame& frame,
                                                 char* buffer) {
  if (frame.type == STREAM_FRAME &&
      frame.stream_frame->stream_id == kCryptoStreamId) {
    has_crypto_handshake_ = IS_HANDSHAKE;
  }
  if (buffer != nullptr) {
    stream_data_.push_back(buffer);
  }
  frames_.push_back(frame);
  return frames_.back();
}

void RetransmittableFrames::RemoveFramesForStream(QuicStreamId stream_id) {
  QuicFrames::iterator it = frames_.begin();
  while (it != frames_.end()) {
    if (it->type != STREAM_FRAME || it->stream_frame->stream_id != stream_id) {
      ++it;
      continue;
    }
    delete it->stream_frame;
    it = frames_.erase(it);
  }
}

SerializedPacket::SerializedPacket(
    QuicPacketSequenceNumber sequence_number,
    QuicSequenceNumberLength sequence_number_length,
    QuicEncryptedPacket* packet,
    QuicPacketEntropyHash entropy_hash,
    RetransmittableFrames* retransmittable_frames,
    bool has_ack,
    bool has_stop_waiting)
    : packet(packet),
      retransmittable_frames(retransmittable_frames),
      sequence_number(sequence_number),
      sequence_number_length(sequence_number_length),
      entropy_hash(entropy_hash),
      is_fec_packet(false),
      has_ack(has_ack),
      has_stop_waiting(has_stop_waiting) {}

SerializedPacket::~SerializedPacket() {}

QuicEncryptedPacket* QuicEncryptedPacket::Clone() const {
  char* buffer = new char[this->length()];
  memcpy(buffer, this->data(), this->length());
  return new QuicEncryptedPacket(buffer, this->length(), true);
}

ostream& operator<<(ostream& os, const QuicEncryptedPacket& s) {
  os << s.length() << "-byte data";
  return os;
}

TransmissionInfo::TransmissionInfo()
    : retransmittable_frames(nullptr),
      sequence_number_length(PACKET_1BYTE_SEQUENCE_NUMBER),
      sent_time(QuicTime::Zero()),
      bytes_sent(0),
      nack_count(0),
      transmission_type(NOT_RETRANSMISSION),
      all_transmissions(nullptr),
      in_flight(false),
      is_unackable(false),
      is_fec_packet(false) {
}

TransmissionInfo::TransmissionInfo(
    RetransmittableFrames* retransmittable_frames,
    QuicSequenceNumberLength sequence_number_length,
    TransmissionType transmission_type,
    QuicTime sent_time,
    QuicByteCount bytes_sent,
    bool is_fec_packet)
    : retransmittable_frames(retransmittable_frames),
      sequence_number_length(sequence_number_length),
      sent_time(sent_time),
      bytes_sent(bytes_sent),
      nack_count(0),
      transmission_type(transmission_type),
      all_transmissions(nullptr),
      in_flight(false),
      is_unackable(false),
      is_fec_packet(is_fec_packet) {
}

}  // namespace net


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Tag: Karen Witemeyer
Interview with Karen Witemeyer & a Giveaway
By romancinghistory
In Author Interviews, Historical Romance Fiction
I'm so thrilled to welcome historical romance author and sweet friend, Karen Witemeyer to Romancing History today. I had the pleasure of meeting Karen at the American Christian Fiction Writers conference in 2016, but I'd been a fan of her books way before that. In fact, meeting Karen in person was similar to a little girl meeting her favorite Disney princess.
Karen's newest release, In Honor's Defense, released June 7 and is the 3rd book in her Hanger's Horseman series. Here's a link to my review on BookBub.
And don't forget to visit the Giveaway section below and enter to win a print copy of In Honor's Defense and a pair of bookish socks (sorry, giveaway open to U.S. residents only). Many thanks to Karen for her generous donation for our drawing.
Before we chat with Karen, here's a little bit about her and her new book.
For those who love to smile as they read, bestselling author Karen Witemeyer offers warmhearted historical romance with a flair for humor, feisty heroines, and swoon-worthy Texas heroes. Voted #1 Readers' Favorite Christian Romance Author in 2019 by Family Fiction Magazine, Karen is a multiple award-winning author and a firm believer in the power of happy endings. She is an avid cross-stitcher, tea drinker, and gospel hymn singer who makes her home in Abilene, TX with her heroic husband who vanquishes laundry dragons and dirty dish villains whenever she's on deadline.
Connect with Karen:
The Posse (Karen's FB Group) Amazon BookBub Inspired by Life & Fiction Blog
He's Faced Countless Perils on the Battlefield, but Nothing so Dangerous as Falling in Love.
Luke Davenport has been fighting all his life–for respect, for country, and for those unable to fight for themselves. But now that his Horsemen brothers are domesticated, he's left alone to battle the wildness within. When an opportunity arises to take a job on his own, tracking down a group of rustlers, he jumps at the chance.
Damaris Baxter has mastered the art of invisibility. Plain and quiet, she hides in books and needlework, content to be overlooked. Until her brother dies suddenly, leaving her custody of her nephew. She moves to Texas to care for Nathaniel, determined to create the family for herself that she never thought she'd have and to give him the family he desperately needs.
When Nate finds himself knee-deep in trouble, Luke's attempt to protect him leaves Damaris feeling indebted to the Horseman. But suspicions grow regarding the mysterious death of Damaris's brother. And the more questions they ask, the more danger appears, threatening the family Luke may be unable to live without.
Amazon Baker Book House B&N Christianbook.com
Interview with Karen Witemeyer
1. Colin Firth or Matthew Macfadyen as Mr. Darcy? (I should warn you, there is only ONE right answer, LOL!)!
Colin Firth – He was my first Mr. Darcy and remains my favorite. (Excellent answer, Karen!)
2. Night Owl or Early Bird?
Early Bird. It's rare for me to stay awake past 10:30 pm.
3. Dark or Milk chocolate? Dark.
4. Downton Abbey or Call the Midwife?
Downton Abbey – although I only watched the first few seasons.
5. Kindle, Audio book, or Paperback?
Tough call – I use all three. I'll go traditional, though, and say paperback.
Me, too, but I tend to listen to more audio books these days.
RH: You're a pretty well-known author to Romancing History readers. Rather than giving us the typical back of the book author bio, please share something quirky about yourself?
KW: Here are a few random quirks you might not know about me:
I love groan-worthy puns
I'm super competitive when it comes to board games (though my sweet disposition masks my desire to stomp my opponents into the ground)
I can't start writing for the day until I've cleared out all the unread email in my inbox.
My feet are perpetually cold, so I always have a pair of socks on when lounging around the house.
In keeping with the previous item, I collect book-related socks.
I am a horrible horticulturist. Only the hearty survive.
I love avocados but hate guacamole.
RH: Those are absolutely fun quirks! As a member of the Posse, I've learned about your propensity for puns, which by the way, I also find very punny. I also knew you loved board games but had no idea you were so competitive. You are too sweet so I'm finding that very hard to believe. Fans of romantic fiction love a cute meet. How did you and your hubby meet?
KW: We met at church my freshman year in college. I recognized his roommate from a church camp reunion I attended back in California where I was from, and the three of us became good friends. My husband often led singing at our church, and one Sunday I happened to be sitting in the pew next to him when he was leading singing (we were not yet dating). After services, an elderly member came up to shake his hand and asked to be introduced to his wife – indicating me! It became a joke with us until the day we went out to lunch to celebrate our faux anniversary and Wes admitted he had true feelings for me and wanted to change our faux dates into real ones. Things progressed from there, and this month we celebrated our 30th wedding anniversary. The happily-ever-after is still in full swing.
RH: Aww, that is such a sweet story. Friends is the best way to start. It's the foundation of everything. Speaking of love—well, book love anyway—I have LOVED the Hangar's Horseman series. Matt and his compadres are swoon worthy heroes. Can I be terribly indiscreet and ask if you had a favorite horseman?
KW: That's such a hard question! I love them all for different reasons. Matt for his courage, leadership, and dependability. Mark for his ability to tease and laugh while still being a man of depth. Jonah for his quiet strength, compassionate nature, and the way he never shirks away from something just because it's hard. Luke for his protective nature, sacrificial spirit, and dedication to God's Word. If I had to pick, I'd probably pick Luke because he is freshest on my mind, and because I'm a sucker for a wounded hero. Luke's backstory made me ache to write him the sweetest happy ending I could.
RH: Hahaha! Aren't I mean? I agree that was a hard question and I would've answered the same—with a wonderful reason why each would deserve the title of "My Favorite Hanger's Horseman Hero." That's probably because you excel at writing swoon worthy heroes. That brings another question to mind. What do you think is the most difficult thing about writing characters of the opposite sex?
KW: I love writing the male point of view. Maybe because I like believing that I know what a man is thinking. Ha! However, it can be challenging to make the male POV sound authentic. I'm a natural explainer. I love giving lots of details and rationales. I like to look at things from all angles. Yet, when I'm writing in the male POV, I have to curtail these more feminine tendencies. Sentences must be shorter. Decisive. To the point. Fewer descriptions. More action. My cowboy heroes are not likely to be thinking in long, poetic phrases about their ladies, and they sure won't be talking that way. Finding the balance between giving myself and my female readers the romance we want from our leading men while still being authentic to their characters requires a deft hand, one I'm constantly working to perfect.
RH: I think those are excellent points. While I love your humility, it would be hard to imagine anyone better at writing the male POV than you. Preach was a favorite of mine throughout the series and I was anxiously waiting to see who he'd "ride off into the sunset with." Preach and his leading lady, Damaris Baxter, are very different characters in everything except faith. Does that make a romance easier or harder to write?
KW: I love to explore what brings people together, and while it's a common idea that opposites attract, I've always believed that there must be some core commonalities beneath the differences to bind a couple together for a lifetime. So, while Luke and Damaris seem to be stark opposites—he an adventure-seeking soldier used to solving problems with guns and fists; she a quiet, proper lady used to escaping problems with books and needlework—they actually have several core commonalities. They both seek belonging and family, they both value God's Word, and they both have a strong, protective instinct toward those they care about. This core common ground is what serves as the foundation for their relationship.
RH: Speaking of Damaris, she seems by far the most timid of all the ladies in the Hangar's Horsemen series. Why did you choose that personality type for her?
KW: It's challenging as an author to create fresh characters for every book. Each heroine needs to be unique. I love strong, feisty heroines, yet I believe there are different types of strength. Damaris has a quieter strength. She's introverted and shy, content to be invisible in most situations, yet she has a steel core when it comes to family. She will never give up on them and do whatever it takes to keep them safe and heal their emotional wounds. Luke looks like a mountain of a man from the outside—tall, muscular, good in a fight—yet deep down he carries hidden vulnerabilities that convince him he is not worthy of being loved or having a family. Damaris is timid on the outside, but she is an emotional lioness inside. The two fit together perfectly, each having what the other needs to be whole.
RH: I love that. Do you have a favorite quote from In Honor's Defense?
KW: This is one of my favorites:
"He's a Horseman…As opposite from my quiet bookish existence as one can be. Yet he actively seeks my opinion. Not only seeks it but honors it. Honors me. He looks at me as if I were a rare treasure he'd never thought he'd find, and when I look at him…It's as if all my odd, misshaped edges finally fit somewhere."
That is a great quote, and fits in perfectly with what we've been talking about—how opposites attract but need a common foundation to support the relationship, often fitting together like a jigsaw puzzle only the other can complete.
Just for fun, here's one of my favorite quotes from In Honor's Defense:
"I'll stay as long as you need me." The promise he made days ago reflected in his eyes.
Her heart thumped out the question she didn't have the courage to ask out loud. What if I need you forever?
RH: Sigh. That quote still gives me goosies! This is the final installment of the Hangar's Horsemen series. Did that make it bittersweet to write? Or is there a certain satisfaction in bringing their stories to completion?
KW: It's always hard to say goodbye to favorite characters, yet I find great satisfaction in bringing a series to its conclusion. I loved bringing all the Horsemen back together in this story, giving them all a final moment to shine and celebrating the special bond of brotherhood they share. I like to imagine them continuing to live and love and adventure together as they raise their children and overcome the obstacles of life. They live on in my heart, hopefully inspiring me to be brave, to stand up for those the world dismisses, and to hold tight to the relationships that matter most.
RH: Dang, Karen, you're gonna make me cry. Whenever I tell my husband that a character's story is making me teary, he asks if we should pray for them? LOL! But, I suppose that's because the author has skillfully made them come to life, made them our friends and we're deeply invested in their lives (a.k.a. stories). Any chance we can get a sneak peek at what's next for you?
KW: I'm starting a new series where I will take familiar fairy tales and give them a Texas twist. I'm working on a version of Snow White first, featuring a Texas Ranger hero, a villainess with a fondness for mirrors, and seven retired drovers at the Diamond D ranch. Should be fun!
RH: That's such a great idea! I loved how you did you put a Texas twist on A Christmas Carol in your novella, Under the Texas Mistletoe. I'm looking forward to your new series.
I had so much fun chatting with you, Karen. Thanks for visiting with my readers today.
Giveaway*
This giveaway is now closed!
Congratulations to our winner, Lynsay F!
Karen has graciously offered an autographed copy of In Honor's Defense and a pair of bookish socks to one Romancing History reader.** To enter, tell me your first Karen Witemeyer story.
*Giveaway ends at midnight, June 29, 2022.
**Sorry, giveaway open to U.S. residents only.
Book Review: The Heart's Charge by Karen Witemeyer & a Giveaway!
In Book Reveiws, Historical Romance Fiction
Title: The Heart's Charge
Series: Hanger's Horsemen, Book #2
Author: Karen Witemeyer
Genre: Historical Romance
Book Info: Bethany House Publishers, June 1, 2021, 381 pages
For Years They've Been Nomads for Justice, but a Final Mission May Just Lead Their Hearts Home.
Members of the legendary Hanger's Horsemen, Mark Wallace and Jonah Brooks arrive in Llano County, Texas, to deliver a steed, never expecting they'd help deliver a baby as well. Left with an infant to care for, they head to a nearby foundling home, where Mark encounters the woman he nearly married a decade ago.
After failing at love, Katherine Palmer has dedicated her life to caring for children, teaming up with Eliza Southerland to start Harmony House. Eliza understands the pain of not fitting society's mold, being illegitimate and of mixed ancestry. Yet those are the very attributes that lead her to minister to outcast children. The taciturn Jonah intrigues her by defying all her stereotypes of men, but there are secrets behind his eyes–ghosts from wars past and others still being waged.
When the Horsemen hear rumors of missing children, they stay to investigate, sticking close to Harmony House and its beautiful owners. As they work together to uncover the truth, love and danger grow hand in hand until a final sinister scheme threatens to destroy them all.
CBD Barnes & Noble Amazon
Karen Witemeyer's books keep getting better and better! Just call me a sucker for handsome, strong, godly soldier types. I wasn't sure about reading a story with four points of view. I wondered if one of the couples would take center stage while the other lingered in the background but that wasn't the case with The Heart's Charge. Both Jonah and Eliza's story line, as well as Mark and Kate's, were well-developed, compelling romances nestled in a mystery about missing children. And I didn't see the culprit coming either!
I also want to give Witemeyer a shout out for writing such endearing children. Oftentimes children in romance novels are just underfoot and underdeveloped characters. Not so in The Heart's Charge. Kate and Eliza run a home for Foundling Children and these sweet children, especially Abner, stole my heart. The boxcar children, orphan boys who ride the rails, were also well thought out characters that added to the story.
With The Heart's Charge, Witemeyer delivers another solid dose of scriptural truth, humor, mystery, and romance that is sure to delight every reader. My only complaint was I wanted more of Matthew and Josie Hanger and Preach from book one.
I'm definitely looking forward to book number three in the Hanger's Horseman series!
"But if each man and woman were defined solely by their greatest sin, what hope would there be for any of us?"
"Regrets are heavy, son. The fewer you carry around the better off you'll be. But when they come, and they will, remember you got a Father who will carry them for you if you let him."
"God don't need fancy words," Jonah encouraged, "just true ones."
For those who love to smile as they read, bestselling author Karen Witemeyer offers warmhearted historical romance with a flair for humor, feisty heroines, and swoon-worthy Texas heroes. Recently voted #1 Readers' Favorite Christian Romance Author by Family Fiction Magazine, Karen is a two-time winner of the ACFW Carol Award and three-time RITA® finalist. Karen is a firm believer in the power of happy endings. . . and ice cream. She is an avid cross-stitcher, and makes her home in Abilene, TX with her husband and three children.
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Congratulations to our winner, Lori Smanski!
I'm giving away a Kindle copy of The Heart's Charge to one commenter. To enter, tell us your favorite Karen Witemeyer book!
**Giveaway ends at midnight, Thursday, June 24th
Book Review, Serving Up Love
In 19th Century America, 20th Century America, Book Reveiws, Historical Romance Fiction
Title: Serving Up Love: A Four-in-One Harvey House Brides Collection
Author: Various, see below
Book Info: (Bethany House Publisher, November 5, 2019, 384 pages)
On the Menu for These Ladies?
Adventure, Independence, and a Big Serving of Romance!
A storied part of American history, Harvey Houses offered women a unique chance to gain independence and see amazing parts of this great country. Celebrated historical romance writers Tracie Peterson, Karen Witemeyer, Regina Jennings, and Jen Turano offer four fun, romantic tales of Harvey girls whose western adventures lead to love.
Tracie Peterson – A Flood of Love
Returning home to New Mexico for the first time in years to fill in at the Harvey House, Gretchen Gottsacker is sure the past is behind her. But nothing can be that simple. When the man she loved long ago steps back into her life–with a daughter, no less–will she ever be the same?
Karen Witemeyer – More Than a Pretty Face
Rosalind Kemp becomes a Harvey Girl, clinging to the promise of one day transferring even farther west, someplace her youthful indiscretion won't catch up to her. But the past is hard to escape, and when the worst occurs, will anyone stand up for her?
Regina Jennings – Intrigue a la Mode
When Willow Kentworth is warned that strange things are happening in the railyard after dark, she never intends to get involved. That is, until a handsome new employee at the Harvey House–who has secrets of his own–needs her assistance.
Jen Turano – A Grand Encounter
After her fiancé abandons her, Miss Myrtle Schermerhorn flees New York's pity for a position at the El Tovar Hotel on the rim of the Grand Canyon. She's determined to hold fast to her life of independence–but a rugged, frequent guest of the hotel makes that vow difficult to uphold.
I tend to be a bit hard on novellas. Often times, the plots are too grand and the author is left to tie up all the loose ends too quickly for my satisfaction. Happily, that is not the case for Serving Up Love which earns five stars across the board. Each novella was filled with just the right amount of captivating characters and swoon-worthy heroes mixed with a dash of adventure to leave this historical romance junkie's heart satiated.
Harvey Girl Uniform, Photo by Jot Powers
As a big history lovin' nerd girl, I was tickled pink to learn of this novella collection centering around Harvey Girls. I'd first heard about Harvey Girls on a vacation through Missouri, Kansas, and Colorado a few years ago. Fred Harvey was an American entrepreneur who opened a series of cafes and restaurants aligned with railroad stations in the western United States. He provided high quality food in a timely manner. Train travelers new to expect great food and excellent service in any of his establishments. Harvey Girls were the women who provided that outstanding service. Each one had to be single and of impeccable character. Housing was provided above the restaurants for these women who were not allowed to fraternize with the customers, at least not in the cafes themselves. Once a woman was engaged, her employment would be terminated.
There was so much to love about each of these stories — the railway setting, life as a Harvey Girl, and handsome customers just to name a few. In Peterson's A Flood of Love, spunky child character, Katieann, captures the readers heart from the get go and not long after, Gretchen's as well. I'd never read Tracie Peterson before but she penned a delightful story and I'll be seeking more by this author. I loved the humor weaved into Intrigue a la Mode and Grand Encounter. Regina Jennings developed an intriguing plot involving smugglers along the railroad that kept me turning the pages. Jen Turano doesn't disappoint readers used to the hilarious shenanigan's of her characters and the author's quippy dialogue like "Mr. Tall, Dark, and –need I say Delicious is here again and sitting in your section." I just about spit out my tea! But I'd have to say it was Witemeyer's, More Than a Pretty Face, that stole my heart. Rosalind, the heroine, is running from a mistake in her past, something we can all relate to. When it blows up BIG in her face, her sweetheart, friends, and co-workers all rally behind her, and Witemeyer weaves in a beautiful lesson about the power of forgiveness and the desire we all have to create a future not defined by past transgressions.
This is a wonderfully charming novella collection from an amazing set of historical romance authors. You'll not only be "served up love," but plenty of faith, humor, and warm fuzzies on the side.
***I received a complimentary copy from Bethany House on behalf of the authors and was under no obligation to write a favorable review. All opinions are my own.
Links for purchase
Amazon Barnes & Noble CBD
A recipient of the ACFW Lifetime Achievement Award, Tracie Peterson is well-known for her numerous award-winning, bestselling historical romances. She lives near Missoula, Montana. Visit her at www.traciepeterson.com.
Karen Witemeyer is a winner of multiple Carol Awards and has been a finalist for the RITA Award and National Readers' Choice Award. She lives in Abilene, Texas. Visit her at www.karenwitemeyer.com.
Regina Jennings is the acclaimed author of The Fort Reno Series. She lives outside Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, with her husband and four children. Visit her at www.reginajennings.com.
Jen Turano, the USA Today bestselling author of over a dozen books, lives in a suburb of Denver, Colorado. Visit her at www.jenturano.com.
Book Review–More Than Words Can Say
Title: More Than Words Can Say
Series Info: A Patchwork Family Novel, Book #2
Genre: Christian Historical Romance
An Impossible Situation. An Unlikely Couple.
A Recipe for Love?
After fulfilling a pledge to a dying friend, Zacharias Hamilton is finally free. No family entanglements. No disappointing those around him. Just the quiet bachelor existence he's always craved. Until fate snatches his freedom away when the baker of his favorite breakfast bun is railroaded by the city council. Despite not wanting to get involved, he can't turn a blind eye to her predicament . . . or her adorable dimples.
Abigail Kemp needs a man's name on her bakery's deed. A marriage of convenience seems the best solution . . . if it involves a man she can control. That person definitely isn't the stoic lumberman who oozes silent confidence whenever he enters her shop. Control Zacharias Hamilton? She can't even control her pulse when she's around him.
When vows are spoken, Abigail's troubles should be over. Yet threats to the bakery worsen, and darker dangers hound her sister. Can she put ever more trust in Zach without losing her dreams of independence?
"Choosing a husband was much like choosing a good baguette. One looked for a strong outer shell, a tender interior, and most importantly, a tractability of dough to hold whatever shape the baker deemed appropriate. Abigail needed a good baguette by the end of the week."
With writing like that, it didn't take long to remember why Karen Witemeyer remains one of my favorite Christian historical romance authors.
I have to admit I'm a sucker for a good marriage-of-convenience story and this one was just thoroughly entertaining. I loved that Abby found herself doing the asking so she could get a man's name on the deed to her bakery in order to save her family business. Right from the beginning the subtle attraction between these two lit curiosity in me wondering how in the world they'd find love inside their hasty marriage. Witemeyer delighted me with witty and often charmingly-awkward moments between Abby & Zach and I found myself rooting for them from the very beginning.
But if you want to know my favorite part of this book, it's that the heroine, Abigail Kemp, had a less than perfect figure. As a woman who has had a life-long struggle with this issue, I definitely related to Abby's self-doubts and insecurities. And Witemeyer's hero, Zacharias Hamilton, endeared himself to me immediately because he never minded Abby's fuller curves. Instead, he relished them. I think we often put too much emphasis on the physical appearance of the opposite sex and don't concern ourselves enough with our potential spouse's character. Zacharias saw both in Abby and helped her see that about herself. My only regret is that Bethany House publishers didn't choose a cover model that more accurately represented the heroine.
In More Than Words Can Say, Witemeyer has the perfect blend of well-developed characters and an intriguing plot, then she tosses in a hearty helping of humor, hope, and love which just might mean that More Than Words Can Say is the perfect recipe for a wonderful read!
I received a copy of the book from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.
"Her fingers twined with his, and for the first time in nine years, the weight on his soul lessend just a little."
"His glare was fierce enough to fire her bread oven without kindling."
"Just because they'd lost didn't mean the battle hadn't been worth waging. A man did what was right even when the odds were stacked against him."
"They had laid their hearts bare to each other, exposing the raw and ugly places. Anger, jealousy, and self-derision had swirled within her, yet Zach hadn't shrunk back. Even when the muck inside her spilled onto him. Instead, he stepped into the fray, fought for her—for them."
"The future is in God's hands, Zach. Not yours, and not mine. Trusting him to bring about what is best is the only choice we need to make."
Spiritual Takeaway
"I can believe all the ones that tell me I'm not good enough, or pretty enough, or brave enough and let them skew my perception of events, or I can push aside the clamor and seek out the voice that tells me I'm fearfully and wonderfully made."
"We have to let God heal our wounds so we can move forward."
Oh, Abby, I feel you, girl.
I could relate to Abby's angst and self-doubt because I'd worn those garments myself for way too long. I think if Abby were a real person we'd sit in her lovely bakery and chat about our struggle with body image. Abby's spiritual journey to overcome self-doubt and learning to see herself as the beautiful woman God made her to be is one many women will relate to. Unfortunately, it is easier to believe the lies, but just as the above mentioned quote states, we have to choose to believe the truth about who God says we are.
I'm going to get a little preachy now so please forgive me. In case you're not sure what that is, here is just a sampling about what the Bible has to say about who God thinks you are:
1 Thes.1: 4 You are chosen and dearly loved of God.
Ps. 139:14 You are fearfully and wonderfully made.
Zech. 2:8 You are the apple of God's eyes. (I just love that one!)
2 Cor. 5:17 You are a new creation in Christ.
John 1:12 You are a child of God.
Col. 1:14 You have been forgiven.
Rom. 8:1 You are free forever from condemnation.
Eph. 2:6 You are his masterpiece. (Can you just imagine?)
If you're ever tempted to listen to the ugly words Satan will whisper in your ear, repeat these words of life to yourself instead.
Choose truth.
Amazon Barnes & Noble Christian Book Distributors
Other Books in the Series:
More Than Meets the Eye (A Patchwork Family Novel, Book #1)
When Her Family Is Threatened, She Doesn't Expect Falling in Love to Be Their Best Defense
Many consider Evangeline Hamilton cursed. Orphaned at a young age and possessing a pair of mismatched eyes–one bright blue, the other dark brown–Eva has fought to find her way in a world that constantly rejects her. Yet the support of even one person can help overcome the world's judgments, and Eva has two–Seth and Zach, two former orphans she now counts as brothers.
Seeking justice against the man who stole his birthright and destroyed his family, Logan Fowler arrives in 1880s Pecan Gap, Texas, to confront Zach Hamilton, the hardened criminal responsible for his father's death. Only instead of finding a solitary ruthless gambler, he discovers a man not much older than himself with an unusual family. When Zach's sister, Evangeline, insists on dousing Logan with sunshine every time their paths cross, Logan finds his quest completely derailed. Who is truly responsible for his lost legacy, and will restoring the past satisfy if it means forfeiting a future with Evangeline?
For those who love to smile as they read, bestselling author Karen Witemeyer offers warm-hearted historical romances with a flair of humor, feisty heroines, and swoon-worthy Texas heroes. A transplant from California, Karen came to Texas for college, met a cowboy disguised as a computer nerd, married him, and never left the state that had become home.
Winner of the HOLT Medallion, ACFW Carol Award, Inspirational Reader's Choice Award, National Reader's Choice Award, and a finalist for both the RITA and Christy Awards, Karen is a firm believer in the power of happy endings. . . and ice cream. She also loves to reward her readers. Every month she gives away two inspirational historical novels to someone from her newsletter list and offers substantial bonus content on her website. To learn more about Karen and her books, or to join her subscriber list, please visit www.karenwitemeyer.com.
Christmas Book Bonanza–Historical Romance Edition
In Holiday
With Christmas just around the corner, I thought I'd share some wonderful Christian Historical Romances with a holiday theme that will warm your heart and help you get into the Christmas spirit.
Books are not listed in any preferential order, simply alphabetical by author. Each title will have the back cover blurb and a purchase link.
12 Days at Bleakly Manor: Book 1 in Once Upon a Dickens Christmas by Michelle Griep
A mysterious invitation to spend Christmas at an English manor home may bring danger…and love?
England, 1851: When Clara Chapman receives an intriguing invitation to spend Christmas at an English manor home, she is hesitant yet feels compelled to attend—for if she remains the duration of the twelve-day celebration, she is promised a sum of five hundred pounds.
But is she walking into danger? It appears so, especially when she comes face to face with one of the other guests—her former fiancé, Benjamin Lane.
Imprisoned unjustly, Ben wants revenge on whoever stole his honor. When he's given the chance to gain his freedom, he jumps at it—and is faced with the anger of the woman he stood up at the altar. Brought together under mysterious circumstances, Clara and Ben discover that what they've been striving for isn't what ultimately matters.
What matters most is what Christmas is all about . . . love.
Purchase Link: https://amzn.to/2K0WVfR
A Tale of Two Hearts: Book 2 in Once Upon a Christmas by Michelle Griep
London, 1853: Innkeeper's daughter Mina Scott will do anything to escape the drudgery of her life, for there's nothing more mundane than serving customers day after day. Every minute she can, she reads and dreams of someday becoming a real lady—and catch the eye of William Barlow, a frequent guest at the inn.
William is a gentleman's son, a charming but penniless rogue. However, his bachelor uncle will soon name an heir—either him or his scheming cousin. In an effort to secure the inheritance, William gives his uncle the impression he's married, which works until he's invited to bring his wife for a visit.
William asks Mina to be his pretend bride, only until his uncle names an heir on Christmas Day. Mina is flattered and frustrated by the offer, for she wants a true relationship with William. Yet, she agrees. . .then wishes she hadn't. So does William. Deceiving the old man breaks both their hearts. When the truth is finally discovered, more than just money is lost.
Can two hearts survive such deception?
Purchase Link: https://amzn.to/2B4a2tF
A Holiday by Gaslight: A Victorian Holiday Novella by Mimi Matthews
A Courtship of Convenience
Sophie Appersett is quite willing to marry outside of her class to ensure the survival of her family. But the darkly handsome Mr. Edward Sharpe is no run-of-the-mill London merchant. He's grim and silent. A man of little emotion–or perhaps no emotion at all. After two months of courtship, she's ready to put an end to things.
A Last Chance for Love
But severing ties with her taciturn suitor isn't as straightforward as Sophie envisioned. Her parents are outraged. And then there's Charles Darwin, Prince Albert, and that dratted gaslight. What's a girl to do except invite Mr. Sharpe to Appersett House for Christmas and give him one last chance to win her? Only this time there'll be no false formality. This time they'll get to know each other for who they really are.
Purchase Link: https://amzn.to/2FlGw72
Circle of Blessings by Deborah Raney
Young Stella Bradford is determined to win the love of James Collingwood, her English professor at the university where Stella is studying to be an architect. But the object of Stella's affection seems to hide a dark secret from his past, and even if Stella could capture his attention, she is certain her father would not approve of the match. But neither James, nor Stella has an inkling that his secret is woven into her own past in a way that will ultimately bring blessing to them both.
Inspired by a Raney family Christmas tradition, Circle of Blessings was first published in the novella collection A Currier & Ives Christmas in 2002 and then in A Prairie Christmas Collection in 2010.
Purchase Link: https://amzn.to/2Pw4lxK
Novella Collections
The Christmas Heirloom Collection: 4 Holiday Novellas of Love through the Generations
Legacy of Love by Kristi Ann Hunter
Sarah Gooding never suspected returning a brooch to an elderly woman would lead to a job . . . and introduce her to the woman's grandson, a man far above her station.
Gift of the Heart by Karen Witemeyer
Widow Ruth Albright uses the family brooch as collateral for a loan from the local banker. But the more she comes to know the man behind the stern businessman, the more she hopes for a second chance at love.
A Shot at Love by Sarah Loudin Thomas
Fleeta Brady's rough-and-tumble childhood means she prefers hunting to more feminine activities. She never expected her family's brooch might be how a fellow hunter turns her attention from competition to romance.
Because of You by Becky Wade
Maddie Winslow has spent years in love with a man whose heart was already spoken for. When a church Christmas project brings them together and she stumbles upon an old family brooch, might it finally be her turn for love?
Purchase Link: https://amzn.to/2z8f7ja
The Victorian Brides Collection: 9 Women Dream of Perfect Christmases in the Victorian Era
Experience a Dickens of a Christmas
Faced with the daily extremes of gluttony and want in the Victorian Era, nine women seek to create the perfect Christmas celebrations. But will expectations and pride cause them to overlook imperfect men who offer true love?
Paper Snowflake Christmas by Vanessa Riley
1837 Framlingham, England
How can widow Ophelia Hanover give her son a perfect Christmas when his guardian, the Earl of Litton, arrives early to take permanant custody of the boy?
One Golden Ring by C.J. Chase
1855 Devonshire, England
Wounded soldier Tristram Nowell returns home to indulge his mother's wish for a family Christmas–and encounters Marianna Granville. Can he forgive the former heiress who jilted him years before?
Love Brick by Brick by Kathleen L. Maher
1857 Elmira, New York
SarahAnn Winnifred overcomes orphanhood apprenticing with pioneering doctors. Rufus Sedgwick, relocating his English estate, seeks help for his ailing Mum. Christmas reveals the secret wish of both hearts–for love.
The Sugarplum Ladies by Carrie Fancett Pagels
1867 Windsor, Ontario, Canada and Detroit, Michigan
When Canadian barrister Percy Gladstone finds his aristocratic British family unexpectedly descending upon him for Christmas, he turns to American social reformer Eugenie Mott and her fledgling catering crew for help.
Star of Wonder by Susanne Dietze
1875 County Durham, England
This Yuletide, Bennet Hett, Viscount Harwood, offers Lady Celeste Sidwell matrimony and the Star of Wonder diamond necklace, as their fathers arranged. When the diamond disappears, will they find a greater treasure?
Father Christmas by Lorna Seilstad
Chicago, Christmas 1880
Widowed harpist Beatrix Kent believes love can only come once in a lifetime, but this Christmas, carpenter Hugo Sherman hopes to pull on the musician's heartstrings and prove her wrong.
The Perfect Christmas by Erica Vetsch
1880s London
Melisande Verity might be in over her head trying to create the perfect Christmas window display, but if she succeeds, will she finally attract the attention of her boss, Gray Garamond?
A Christmas Vow by Gabrielle Meyer
London, England, Christmas 1899
Lady Ashleigh Pendleton is hosting a houseful of guests for Christmas when railroad executive Christopher Campbell unexpectedly arrives from America with a mysterious agreement signed by their fathers before their birth.
The Holly and the Ivy by Rita Gerlach
1900. Small town along the Potomac near Washington DC
A glass ornament. Love letters tied in red Christmas ribbon. Lily Morningstar and British antiquities expert Andrew Stapleton are drawn into a family secret that binds their hearts together.
Purchase Link: https://bit.ly/2TaN8YH
A Christmas Stocking Bundle from Julie Lessman
(PLEASE NOTE! THIS BOOK IS A SWEET INSPIRATIONAL WITH A STRONGER LEVEL OF ROMANTIC & SPIRITUAL PASSION.)
Fall in love at Christmas with a close-knit and passionate Irish family beginning with A Light in the Window, the prequel novel to the award-winning Daughters of Boston and Winds of Change Series (See the video on Julie's Amazon Author Page). Then curl up with two heart-warming Christmas novellas featuring this same wonderful family, A Whisper of Hope and The Best Gift of All. This delightful Christmas collection wraps up with a sweet and funny frontier Christmas novella, The Gift of Grace, so grab a coffee or hot chocolate and bundle up with a Christmas bundle that will warm your Christmas heart and soul!
A Light in the Window: An Irish Christmas Love Story (Award-winning Novel)
One Woman. Two Men.
One stirs her pulse, the other her faith.
But who will win her heart?
Marceline Murphy, a gentle beauty with a well-founded aversion to rogues, catches the eye of two of Boston's most notorious. Patrick O'Connor and Sam O'Rourke are best friends with a bond like brothers … until they meet one woman neither can have.
Overseeing St. Mary's Christmas play—A Light in the Window—Marcy wrestles with her attraction to both. But when disaster strikes, she's destined to discover the play's message firsthand. For although two men have professed their love, only one has responded to the light in the window.
A Whisper of Hope: An O'Connor Christmas Novella
She's desperate for a baby.
He's desperate for an empty nest.
Love is desperate to surprise them both.
With a husband dead set against adoption, Charity O'Connor Dennehy has barely a whisper of hope for more children, but if hope doesn't disappoint … will it be enough to find a precious bundle under her tree?
The Best Gift of All: An O'Connor Christmas Novella
She longs to be the perfect mother.
He just longs for his wife.
Until they receive … the best gift of all.
Everyone knows Lizzie and John Brady have the perfect marriage. But when Lizzie's desire to be a good mother eclipses her desire for her husband, the honeymoon is definitely over. Can the spirit of Christmas heal their hearts when Lizzie gives John the best gift of all?
The Gift of Grace: A Frontier Christmas Novella
She's the Accident to His Prayers …
Pastor Cole McCabe isn't sure he'll survive the holidays with his new housekeeper and nanny. She's caught fire to the kitchen, dyed his long johns pink, and scorched nearly everything she cooks. But he's desperate, and she's as destitute as they come.
Even though she's no good with her hands, Grace sure has a way with her heart. She's brought a warmth into Cole's home, added color to his daughters' lives, and broken down the wall he's built up since his beloved wife died. But when Grace's past threatens Cole's family, she's given one last chance to be home for Christmas . . . if she hasn't burned it down yet.
Purchase Link: https://amzn.to/2za4TyX
I hope you'll find something here to snuggle up by a cozy fire and take a few minutes for yourself this Christmas season.
What good Christmas books have you read lately?
Penny Dreadful's Legacy
In 19th Century America, British History, U.S. Civil War, U.S. History, Victorian
"To her and none other. Swear to give the girl to me to do with as I please, and I will agree that for every person now in yonder town, a death notch shall be made."
"Red Hatchet agrees. When he can count the death notches of all his sworn enemies, and is free to go back to his once pretty village, he will deliver Siska to the Devil Dwarf to do with as he pleases."
"Then call the girl. We will tap a vein in her arm, and seal this compact with a draught of her blood!" the avenger said.
~~Excerpt from Deadwood Dick's Doom (or Calamity Jane's Last Adventure)
Sweeney Todd, 1842
If you love to read like I do, you may be surprised to learn that stories like Deadwood Dick's Doom (above) paved the way for your favorite author today. These stories, originally known as Penny Dreadfuls, were the first successful mass market paperbacks. First popularized in Victorian Britain, Penny Dreadfuls, sometimes referred to as Penny Bloods, were lurid serial fiction stories published in weekly eight or sixteen page installments, with each part costing one penny. The term quickly became applied to any publication featuring sensational fiction such as story papers and booklet libraries.
Also known in Britain as Shilling Shockers, these stories could best be described in one word, melodramatic. Filled with what today's editor's would gleefully strike through as purple prose, these tintillating stories drew readers by romanticizing danger and hardship with larger-than-life heroes defeating villains and rescuing damsels in distress. Rambling plot lines emphasized heinous acts of poisoning, strangling, burglary and narrow escapes from sexual assault that by today's standards would be considered racist and misogynistic.
Their authors, who might keep ten of these stories spinning simultaneously, were paid at the rate of a penny a line, which had a direct effect on the text. Skilled practitioners quickly learned that short staccato-like sentences not only were the most profitable but increased the dramatic effect as well.
Penny Dreadfuls were printed on cheap pulp paper and were aimed primarily at the working class who saw a sharp rise in literacy rates with new laws requiring mandatory education for all of Britain's children through age nine. In addition, the proliferation of the railroad made the distribution of Penny Dreadfuls affordable to the masses at a time when traditional full-length novels by authors like Charles Dickens sold for a dollar each.
The fad took hold on this side of the Atlantic as well when brothers Erastus and Irwin Beadle published Ann Stephens' "Maleska the Indian Wife of the White Hunter" in 1860. Promoting the work as "a dollar book for a dime," it was an instant success selling an estimated 300,000 copies in its first year. A feat any author today would would eagerly aspire to repeat.
Beadle's early publications were printed in orange wrapper papers with no illustrations on the cover. Eventually cover art appeared enticing the curiosity of consumers with illustrations depicting scenes of mayhem and bloodshed.
Drawing on the Beadle's success, other publishers quickly followed suit and it seemed the American reading public couldn't get enough of their serialized fiction. Subjects in the early days were pioneer and revolutionary war stories but other adventure genres, such as pirate tales and trapper adventures, also appeared frequently. After the civil war, the focus of the novels turned to the wild west and the detective genres and remained popular through the 1950's. In the twentieth century the genre became known as pulp fiction after the cheap paper they were printed on.
Early cover art for Beadle's Dime Novels
Early full cover art for dime novels
1933 cover, still selling for ten cents
Dime Westerns, as they became known in America, were often based on real people like Jesse James, Buffalo Bill, Kit Carson, and Calamity Jane. Although purely fiction, these stories helped create a new national identity of patriotism and adventure. In addition, they helped level the playing field between the social classes as people began to judge the ideal man by his actions rather than his wallet.
Just like violent video games and movies today, dime novels were blamed for an upsurge in violence in American society. The New York Tribune published this article in June, 1884, blaming societal ills on the popularity of "cheap" literature, particularly dime novels. People complained that the deviant characters in novels influenced real people, particularly young men, to behave aggressively. "The work of the dime novel is being performed with even more than usual success. The other day three boys robbed their parents and started off for the boundless West. More recently a lad in a Philadelphia public school drew a revolver on his teacher, and examination showed that seven other boys present were armed with revolvers and bowie-knives […] The class of literature which is mainly responsible for all this folly is distributed all over the country in immense quantities, and it is distinctly evil in its teachings and tendencies."
While penny dreadfuls and dime novels focused on fantastic, escapist fiction for the general masses, there is no denying they encouraged the working class to read and influenced generations of authors and publishers. British bookseller, C.A. Stonehill, noted in 1935 that "It is highly probably that in its day more people read Thomas Prest's "First False Step" or "The Maniac Father" than had ever heard of a book published in the same decade, entitled Jane Eyre."
Although I may prefer to read of Jane's trouble with the enigmatic Mr. Rochester over "Keetsea, Queen of the Plains," or "Crack Skull Bob," I think it would be fun to write a character who is secretly hooked on the scintillating stories with the melodrama pouring over into her own life as she suspects something heinous has occurred to a missing neighbor. In her novella, "The Husband Maneuver," With This Ring?: A Novella Collection of Proposals Gone Awry , Karen Witemeyer (one of my favorites) created a hero whose adventures as a bounty hunter were immortalized as Dead-Eye Dan in a series of dime westerns. Talk about a fun read!
How would you incorporate a Penny Dreadful into a novel's plot line?
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redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


Marta is an unique villa situated between Arona and Meina with private pool and panoramic views over Lake Maggiore. This villa can sleep up to 8 people in 4 bedrooms and is suitable for families and groups of friends. The villa is only four kilometres away from the charming town of Arona with its beautiful lakeside promenade and many shops and restaurants. On the main floor is a spacious and bright living room with dining table, comfortable couches and open fireplace. It is stylishly furnished and has all modern conveniences such as satellite TV, wireless internet, and DVD player. There is a separate fully equipped kitchen with access to the terrace. On the main floor is one double bedroom, one twin bedroom and two bathrooms: one with bathtub and other one with shower and Turkish bath. On the first floor are two further twin bedrooms (beds can be joined together) with air conditioning and also a bathroom with shower. The house is set in an elevated position with impressive views over Lake Maggiore. Outside you'll find a covered terrace with table and chairs, a lovely garden with landscaped lawn and a swimming pool (4.5 x 9m) with sun loungers. Covered parking space is also available for the guests and the property is fenced and secured with an electronic entrance gate. From the charming town of Arona you can easily hop on a ferry and explore the delights of Lake Maggiore. Arona's railway station connects directly to the centre of Milan and only 15 kilometres away is Stresa, the most popular tourist town on the lake, with regular ferries to the famous and spectacular Borromeo Islands.
Air conditioningThe electricity for the air conditioning (bedrooms upstairs) is metered with a bonus included of 50€. Any extra usage will be detracted from the deposit.
Tourist taxTourist tax: to check upon arrival if applicable. Depending on local legislation.


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Grand Slam Tennis (known as Grand Chelem Tennis in France) is a tennis video game, developed by EA Canada, and released for the Wii in 2009. Versions for the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 were planned to be released Autumn 2009, but they have been "delayed indefinitely". Instead, a sequel, Grand Slam Tennis 2, was released exclusively for those consoles in February 2012.

Some features for the Wii version include online play, Wii MotionPlus functionality, pick up and play, a Grand Slam career mode, and all four Grand Slam locations, including Wimbledon. The Wii version was also the first title in Europe to be bundled with the Wii MotionPlus.

The in-game music was created by Paul van Dyk, who wrote and produced all the tracks in the game.

Gameplay
Grand Slam Tennis features 23 total players, including 10 retired legends and 13 of today's top players at the time of the game's release. It also includes a "Create-A-Player" mode. In the "Create-A-Player" mode, players can create their own unique player for use in all modes of the game. The player can customize their created player with branded clothing, racquet styles, accessories and physical appearance. Up to nine players can be created at any one time. Pat Cash serves as the commentator even when he is playing in a match. Grand Slam Tennis offers 12 different authentic stadiums from all four Grand Slam venues to play in, and is the first video game since Top Spin 2 to feature a licensed Wimbledon.

Play Now is a  mode allows players to enter either a singles or doubles match. This mode is available for both single and multiplayer forms of play. The player is able to select their venue, and to choose settings such as set length, number of sets, difficulty and the option of a tie-break.

Grand Slam mode allows players to embark on a career with their created player. The career involves travelling to each of the four Grand Slam tournaments and attempt to achieve the Grand Slam by winning every tournament. Each tournament begins with a warm-up match against a fellow fictional rookie of average ability. The player can then challenge a legend or current player to a match in an attempt to learn the players special ability, e.g. Rafael Nadal's forehand topspin, or Björn Borg's fitness. If the player is successful with their challenge, they may equip that special ability for use in future matches. The player can equip only one ability to start with, however as the player increases in skill, they will be able to equip multiple abilities at one time. Then the player will take part in a party style mini-game form of tennis along with fictional players, before starting the tournament. Every tournament starts at the round of 32 stage (round 3).

Party Mode is a collection of mini-games that are each a slightly altered form of tennis, with slight rule changes:
Tag Team: 2 on 2 with players rotating and taking turns hitting the ball.
Aussie Doubles: 2 on 1 and the players rotate after each set.
Drop and Lob: use the drop shot and lob winners for double points.
Champs: time based game, take turns swinging, win the rally to become a champ.
King of the Court: beat the king to become king, only the king earns points.
Net-masters: Net shots are worth double points.
Triplets: Similar to Aussie doubles where (2 on 1) but the players do not rotate around.

Online multiplayer consists of ranked or unranked matches where you can play anyone around the world. Ranked earns the player points when they beat someone and these points decide what overall ranking you are in the world. Unranked matches are friendly and do not earn any points for the player's online profile. It is good for people who are preparing to hit the leaderboards. When players win ranked matches they do not only win points for themselves but also for their country. There is a national leaderboard which shows which country has the best players.

Reception

Grand Slam Tennis received "generally favorable reviews" according to the review aggregation website Metacritic. In Japan, where the game was ported for release on July 2, 2009, Famitsu gave it a score of one eight, two sixes, and one seven for a total of 27 out of 40.

411Mania gave it a score of eight out of ten and said, "If you are a big fan of the sport, and even engage in the sport in your free time, you will no-doubt enjoy this game. Grand Slam is a fun way to prepare you for the game's real online draw. If you've just been settling for Wii Tennis over the past few years, then now is the time to act, because Grand Slam Tennis is likely as good as it is ever going to get for the sport on the Wii." The Daily Telegraph similarly gave it eight out of ten, saying, "Though ultimately lacking the precision a truly great tennis game needs, EA should be commended for a superb Wii effort which amply demonstrates the publisher's commitment to the format. If not quite the revolution it promised to be, Grand Slam Tennis shows enough promise that next year's iteration should be a classic." Teletext GameCentral also gave it eight out of ten, saying, "EA's tennis and Wii MotionPlus debut is a success after all and an encouraging sign for the future."

References

External links
Grand Slam Tennis

2009 video games
Cancelled PlayStation 3 games
Cancelled Xbox 360 games
EA Sports games
Electronic Arts franchises
Electronic Arts games
Multiplayer and single-player video games
Tennis video games
Video games developed in Canada
Wii games
Wii-only games
Wii MotionPlus games

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


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Category: News Posted by: C. DENNIS SCHICK
The following are people in magic who The Linking Ring learned since last month, had died. We honor them for their contributions to magic, including bringing joy and laughter to many people over the years. Note that several of the obituaries include places to which memorial contributions may be made in their names.
BILL L. ADAMS
Bill Lee Adams, 86, of Green River, Utah, died September 29, 2014. He held I.B.M. member number 30561 since 1976. He was a member of the Order of Merlin Shield (thirty-five years a continuous member). He also was a member of the Society of American Magicians and the Pacific Coast Association of Magicians. Born in Santa Barbara, California, he served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. He used one of his great loves, magic, to entertain fellow servicemen; as well as used two other talents, music and making films in the service. He had a career as owner of Capitol Roof in Santa Barbara, but he also had many unique side hobbies. He owned "Lamp Productions," which produced an evangelistic film for Youth for Christ, as well as a documentary about Central America and the ancient Mayans. He also owned a magic shop and produced many fine magic effects under the name "Bill Adams World of Magic." His stage character was "Ling Lee" the Chinese magician, often assisted by his wife. They entertained throughout the world, from Korea, China, Japan and Singapore, to Canada and even at the bottom of the grand Canyon. He hosted three PCAM conventions. A man of faith, he was a choir director, Sunday School teacher, and youth leader. He led many groups on river trips, and loved filming and documenting the wilderness. He and his wife moved to Utah in 1991, continuing his church work there. Survivors include his wife of sixty-one years, June; son Troy; daughter Crystal (Brian) Boecker; grandchildren Bayley and Isabella; brother Glen (Eleanor) Adams; and sister-in-law Marjorie Kiefer. Memorial contributions may be made in his name to the Youth Building Fund, Green River Bible Church, P.O. Box 308, Green River, UT, 84525.
EARL J. ARTLE
Earl James (Jim) Artle, 63, of Highlands, New Jersey, died September 18, 2014 after a long struggle with ALS. His I.B.M. number was 36354, and he had been a member since 1981. He was a member of the Order of Merlin (twenty-five years a continuous member). He also was a member of the Magic Castle, where he performed. Born in West Virginia, he grew up in Warren, Ohio. He was a paramedic for forty-three years in New Jersey. He was hired to entertain the street crowds surrounding Barnes & Nobel in New York City for the new releases of the Harry Potter book series. In 1984 he became the Senior Balloon Technician for the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, working there for thirty-three years. He retired in 2013, but not before passing on his balloon knowledge to another generation. His sister recently published his work, "A Fifth of Card Tricks -- With Coin Trick Chasers." Survivors include his great love, Sandy Rafferty; daughters Casey (Michael) Christiernsson, and Kaitlin Faler; brothers Sam and Joe; sisters Lana Artle, Debbie (Michael) Wilson, and Bev (Joe) Reyes; and grandchildren Sarah and Caleb. Memorial contributions may be made to PALS, P.O. Box 8157, Red Bank, NJ 07701.
JOE M. BERTUZZI
Joe M. Bertuzzi, 73, of Lake Eisinore, California, died September 28, 2014 after several years of declining health, suffering a stroke at the end. His I.B.M. member number was 28828 and he had been a member since 1975. He was a member of the Order of Merlin Shield (thirty-five years a continuous member). He also was a member of Ring 76 (San Diego), serving in every officer position in the Ring. He had retired as an executive with a trucking services agency. He worked tirelessly for the I.B.M. since joining. He served as the California TVP for ten years. He was elected for three terms as an I.B.M. Trustee, and actively recruited new members to the I.B.M. He made significant contributions to the Endowment and Development Fund through various projects he created and implemented. He was named an Honorary Member of the I.B.M. in 2002. There are only six living recipients of this honor. Survivors include two daughters, Kate Bertuzzi and Kelly Gillum; and his brother, James. Memorial contributions may be made in his name to the I.B.M. Endowment and Development Fund, 13 Point West Blvd., St. Charles, MO 63302-4431. Call (636) 724-2400 for credit card contributions.
RICHARD A. DAVIS
Recently the I.B.M. Headquarters learned that Richard A. Davis, 84, of Rancho Mirage, California, died April 27, 2014. His I.B.M. member number was 43439, and he had been a member since 1988. He was a member of the Order of Merlin (twenty-five years a continuous member). He also was a founding member of Ring 291 (Palm Desert, California). His two great loves of life besides his family were magic and flying. He loved to perform magic and especially liked to share his knowledge with anyone who was interested. He was a willing volunteer for charity fund-raisers, and was much loved and respected by his fellow magicians. Among survivors are his wife, Marie.
CARL DIETRICH
Carl "Bud" Dietrich, 92, of St. Louis, Missouri, died September 24, 2014. His I.B.M. member number was 10852, and he had been a member since 1948. He was a member of the Order of Merlin Excelsior (sixty years a continuous member), and was a Lifetime Member of the I.B.M. He also was a member of the Society of American Magicians and a former member of the Magic Castle. He was a member of Ring 1 (St. Louis), and was one of the founders of the Midwest Magic Jubilee in St. Louis in 1956. Born in East St. Louis, he was a World War II U.S. Army veteran. He had a long and distinguished career as a full time magician, performing for forty-four years before retiring in 2000. He lectured all over the United States and Europe, invented magic tricks, and wrote a book on magic. For over twenty years he specialized in working trade shows, and often was called the "Fortune 500 Magician." His friend, Terry Richison, said "Bud and his late wife were icons in the St. Louis community. He always had something good to say about everything and everyone. He mentored many." Survivors include his son Paul (Laura), and daughter Joan; sister Betty Rogers; and brother-in-law Richard Effinger. Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association, 9370 Olive Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63132.
SANFORD KARTZMAN
Sanford Kartzman, 85, of Oak Ridge, New Jersey, died September 27, 2014. He held I.B.M. number 14644 since 1954, and was a member of the Order of Merlin Excelsior (sixty years a continuous member). He also was a member of Ring 106 (Parsippany, New Jersey), and Ring 113 (Bergen County, New Jersey). He graduated from Upsala College, and retired after twenty-five years as an English teacher at Lakeland High School in Wanaque, New Jersey. He also worked many years as an auctioneer and a talent agent in the entertainment sales industry. He was a U.S. Army veteran. In addition to magic, he enjoyed photography and competitive target shooting. Survivors include his wife of fifty-three years, Ethel; son Paul; son-in-law George Ollwerther; grandson Andrew, and granddaughter Erika. Memorial contributions may be made to Chabad Center of Passaic County, 194 Ratzer Road, Wayne, NJ 07470-5441, or Compassionate Care Hospice, 350 Sparta Ave., Suite B2, Sparta, NJ 07871.
LAWRENCE D. LANNING
Recently the I.B.M. Headquarters was notified that Lawrence Donald (Don) Lanning, 79, of Spruce Pine, North Carolina, died May 26, 2013. His I.B.M. membership number was 67594, and he had been a member since 2008. He was a member of Ring 334 (Myrtle Beach, South Carolina).
KLAAS G. LINKER
Klaas G. Linker, 70, of Dondrecht, Netherlands, died October 10, 2014 after a long illness. His I.B.M. membership number was 36033, and he had been a member since 1980. He was a member of the Order of Merlin (twenty-five years a continuous member). In addition to being a magician, he was the owner of Goochelstudio Kali, a magic store in the Netherlands. Recently he retired. Survivors include his wife, Anke Linker-Vandegraaf; son Edwin (Theresa); daughter Evelien (Wilco) Van der Meer; and four grandchildren, Noah, Ralf, Mara, and Joey.
RENEE LORAYNE
Renee Lorayne, 87, of Water Mill, New York (The Hamptons), died September 11, 2014. She was best known as the wife and partner of memory expert, cardician, and magician Harry Lorayne. They met in 1944 when Harry got out of the Army and went to work for the General Accounting Office in New York City, where Renee was working. They started going together in 1945, and got married January 31, 1948. They started performing as "Harry Lorayne & Renee" in 1949, and were a "club date" act, performing in a different venue every night. They performed their memory act for twenty years, until one night, according to Harry, she said she didn't want to do the act anymore and wanted a child. So she had their son, Robert, and Harry turned to the lecture and corporate speaking market. They lived in West Greenwich Village in Manhattan for forty-seven years. He told their story in his recent "rememoir," Before I Forget. Harry will now move to Massachusetts to be near his son and family. The Loraynes were on the cover of Genii in 1963 and 2001, and were featured in The Linking Ring In the November 2010 issue. Survivors include her husband of sixty-six years, Harry; son Robert (Elizabeth); granddaughter Genevieve (Vivi); and sister, Marilyn. Memorial contributions may be made to the I.B.M. Endowment and Development Fund, 13 Point West Blvd., St. Charles, MO 63301.
TONI PERRINE
Toni Perrine, 89, of Carlsbad, California, died May 9, 2014. Her I.B.M. membership number was 63143, and she had been a member since 2002. She was a member of Ring 76 (San Diego, California), and Ring 292 ( Vista, California). Toni Perrine was born Pamela Young in Brighton, Sussex, England. As it turns out, she was born to perform and to travel, and spent her entire life doing both. Her life story reads like both a travelogue (Europe, North America, Asia, South America, and beyond), as well as a ten-ring circus (ballet dancer, clown, magician, actress, singer, mime, belly dancer, ice skater, ballroom dancer, acrobat, teacher, etc.). And she was still performing well into her eighties. She came to the United States with the circus in her early twenties, and stayed -- marrying and having two children while living in Las Vegas. Later she moved to California, marrying Bill Perrine in 1968; he died in 1980. Ever the adventurer, she took up belly-dancing at age fifty-seven, and clowning soon after. Both became new passions to add to her colorful repertoire. In writing her life story for the Gilded Serpent, Belly Dance News & Events, she wrote in 2009: "I want my ability to pursue my dreams and passions to be an inspiration to others. When I become interested in something, I chase it with unbridled enthusiasm and passion." Talk about a full and abundant life well lived.
ANDREW G. PUGENS
Andrew (Andy) G. Pugens, 62, of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, died September 4, 2014. His I.B.M. member number was 23876, and he had been a member since 2011. He was a member of Ring 41 (Milwaukee, Wisconsin); Assembly 61 of the Society of American Magicians, and the Houdini Club of Wisconsin. His interest in magic began in his youth and by age twelve he was performing at magic club functions and at birthday parties. He graduated from the Chavez Magic School in his mid-teens, where he perfected Channing Pollock-inspired dove act. He won over a dozen first place trophies from various junior magician competitions. He served in the U.S. Army as an "Entertainment Director." He worked for the Ambrosia Chocolate Factory. Survivors include his wife of forty-two years, Angie; daughters Jackie and Diana; and five grandchildren.
LEWIS E. WRIGHT
Lewis (Lew) Edward Wright, 74, of Oxon Hill, Maryland, died September 16, 2014, from pancreatic cancer. His I.B.M. member number was 33064, and he had been a member since 1978. He was a member of the Order of Merlin Shield (thirty-five years a continuous member). Born in Springfield, Illinois, he graduated from the prestigious American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York City, then settled in Los Angeles where he worked briefly at the MGM Studios before being called to duty with the California Air National Guard in 1963. In 1969 he moved to the Washington, D.C. area. He lived briefly in Branson, Missouri before moving back to D.C., performing magic shows. He briefly owned a small magic store in Drummer's Village in Alexandria, Virginia, and worked at Al's Magic Shop designing new magic tricks. He also enjoyed building cuckoo clocks. He worked as a bartender for the Sea Shell Restaurant until they closed, moving on as a bartender and bar manager at "The Game Room & Grill" in Fort Washington. He was known for his signature drink, "Lew's Zombie." He entertained customers and employees with his magic tricks, pranks and jokes. Survivors include his brother Gil (Diane); and cousins Juanita (Joe) Brower and Barbara (Gene) Allen.


Copy of a photograph showing the original 1881 Pullman Clocktower/Administration Building with north and south wings and Lake Vista om front.
Description Copy of a photograph showing the original 1881 Pullman Clocktower/Administration Building with north and south wings and Lake Vista om front.
Creator Newspaper Division, Field Enterprises, Inc.


The Steve Marshall Auto Group consists of many different dealers with their own distinct used-car inventories. For each of these inventories, you'll find a broad selection of used SUVs, cars, trucks, and crossovers from an equally broad range of manufacturers. But here at the Steve Marshall Auto Group site, we've amalgamated these inventories into one massive database so you can cover more ground in your search! This combined inventory is full of used and lightly owned models located throughout the Victoria Island and Vancouver areas.
As an auto group of used-car dealerships in the region, we are able to provide our customers with a superior selection of used vehicles in Vancouver Island at competitive prices. You'll find a selection of Lincoln, Mazda, Nissan, Honda, and Ford brands to choose from, and all these vehicles are fully inspected for all mechanical and aesthetic qualities.
Our comprehensive inventory of used vehicles in Vancouver Island changes on a daily basis, and we're sure to have a unique vehicle that appeals to you. Don't see the vehicle you're looking for online? The Steve Marshall Auto Group can reach out to its dealerships and beyond to find the exact used car, truck, SUV, or crossover you are looking for, and bring it in. Our inventory is accessible for shoppers all throughout the Campbell River, Courtenay, Vancouver, Nanaimo, and Victoria areas.
Looking for complete peace of mind with a Steve Marshall Auto Group Certified Pre-Owned Vehicle? Each of the Lincoln, Mazda, Nissan, Honda, and Ford manufacturers have their own, distinct Certified Pre-Owned Programs to ensure their vehicles are the absolute best-quality used vehicles on the market.
These vehicles can qualify for eligibility in the programs only if they pass complete, exhaustive inspections from the Service Technicians belonging to the Steve Marshall Auto Group. The inspection covers the important components of the vehicle, including the powertrain and chassis. Amenities are also covered, and the overall condition of the vehicle must meet or exceed manufacturer standards to receive certification. Often, a full CarProof Vehicle History Report is included, detailing the vehicle's ownership history. Special interest rates are also available!
We will do everything in our power to help you find the vehicle of your dreams. That's why our dealerships offer their own competitive used-car financing options. Many of our second-hand vehicles also carry remainders of their factory warranties, offering you that additional layer of protection. And to protect your investment, we also have offer our own comprehensive used-car warranty.
Please contact our individual dealerships to find out more about these financing options, or contact us today to be redirected to your nearest dealership! Or if you're about ready to start browsing, take a look in our Used Vehicle Inventory on Vancouver Island!