Excerpt Monday - The Inspiration behind Twilight Over Moldavia

When I was a young girl, I used to watch "Creature Double Feature" on Saturday's and became convinced that there were beings who went bump in the night like vampires, werewolves, witches, and zombies. Silly me – I thought if I covered my neck with my covers the vampires couldn't get me. Oh, and I never did figure out what happened to all the lint under the bed so I think there was merit to my belief.

All those creatures of the night resonated with that young girls so when I grew up, I wanted to write about them. Being the optimist I am, I gravitated toward romanced writing. When I discovered paranormal writing, I'd knew I'd found my niche.

In 2005, I wanted to write a paranormal romance about a werewolf. Vampires were pretty popular back then and I wanted to explore the wolf. My idea? I wanted to write a fairytale in reverse where the princess had to save the prince. Inspiration had taken root.

I threw a dash of gothic and a pinch of moonlight into the plot and wrote "Twilight Over Moldavia." Prince Stefan had been cursed to become a werewolf on his 18th birthday. Can Caroline's love save him? I wrote the first draft then wrote "The Wolf's Torment," explaining how Stefan came to be cursed. I went through several drafts of each and my self-published "The Wolf's Torment" in 2007 had more horror elements than romantic ones. In 2009, I signed contracts with Desert Breeze for the Moldavian Moon Series. The published version of "Twilight Over Moldavia" is draft #4. It's a story close to my heart because I love how Caroline and Stefan come together to face adversity. I usually don't draw inspiration from music, but for their story, I drew a lot from "Astronomy" by Blue Oyster Cult. Inspiration comes from the willingness to explore.

GIVEAWAY: Read the excerpt. At the end, Caroline asks Stefan a question. Tell me what you think he said and leave your email. I'll pull a winner out of the hat to receive a PDF copy of Twilight Over Moldavia.


ENJOY THIS EXCERPT:
Once everyone was seated, the dinner service began. Stefan sat next to Caroline, with their fathers on either side of them. Stefan glanced at his mother. If Queen Aurora's expression betrayed her disappointment, his mother's expression betrayed deep worry. Interesting. He followed his mother's gaze and found it on Lady Getzi's table. Now that piqued his curiosity. Lady Getzi was one of his mother's dearest friends. What would cause such worry? The word secret popped into his mind and sent a small sliver of unease coursing through him.

"Prince Stefan, do you like your meal?"

He turned at the soft sing-song quality in Caroline's voice, surprised to find it so delicate and feminine after their previous encounter.

"Yes. Roasted pork is one of my favorites."

King Mircea placed a hand over Caroline's and patted it affectionately. "Stefan is your equal. You may address him by his name."

Caroline nodded. Stefan glanced at his father and noticed he had an almost haunted expression on his face, as if he'd recently recalled Mircea's words. Was Stefan a fish out of water? The whole banquet centered around his coming and was offered for his betrothment, yet he sensed much intrigue surrounded their parents.

"Yes, Papa," Caroline replied, smiling.

Stefan sipped his wine and leaned over to Caroline, trying to dispel the uncertainty caused by his observations of their parents. "These occasions are so formal, aren't they?"

"Yes, they are."

"I was pleasantly surprised to discover you are the crown princess of Carpathia," he whispered.

"Surprised, or horrified?" she replied in a whisper.

*****

5 Stars, Long & Short Book Reviews
Twilight Over Moldavia is even better than the first book in the series. It is an excellent story filled with just the right balance of romance, magic, and danger.

5 Hearts, Sizzling Hot Book Reviews
The twisting story line will keep your nose in the book until you have finished. Stephanie's ability to add suspense and mystery to romances gives her stories all the more depth. If you love werewolf stories, romances, or a good book, I recommend Twilight Over Moldavia.

4 Stars, Vijaya Schartz, author
In this novel full of danger and intrigue, sexy scenes, and unspeakable secrets, the werewolves are the villains, and oh how dangerous they are, and unwashed, and uncivilized. The kind of villains you love to hate.

5 Stars, Mona Risk, Author "No More Lies"
Burkhart's writing style grabs the reader from the first page. She keeps you breathless with her suspense as she transports you to exotic areas you will enjoy discovering.

5 Stars, Karen Michelle Nutt, Author of the "Fallen Angel" Series:
"Ms. Burkhart paranormal tale is rich in history, painting a picture as clearly as if the reader is standing beside Stefan and Caroline."

5 Stars, Barbara M. Hodges, Author of "The Blue Flame"
Twilight Over Moldavia whisked me into a part of the world I knew nothing about, and gave me a wonderful love story filled with suspense too. What more could a reader desire?

5 Stars, Reader's Favorites, Brenda Ballard

BUY LINKS:

ALL ROMANCE EBOOKS:
http://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-moldavianmoonbooktwotwilightovermoldavia-667833-139.html

AMAZON KINDLE:
http://www.amazon.com/Moldavian-Moon-Book-Two-ebook/dp/B006RQ7LU8/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1325479348&sr=8-1

PUBLISHER'S BUY LINK:
http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-247/Moldavian-Moon-Book-Two/Detail.bok

B&N NOOK:
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/moldavian-moon-book-two-stephanie-burkhart/1108111730?ean=2940013822177&itm=1&usri=twilight+over+moldavia

FIND ME ON THE WEB AT:
WEBSITE:
http://www.stephanieburkhart.com

TWITTER:
http://twitter.com/StephBurkhart

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https://www.facebook.com/StephanieBurkhartAuthor

GOOD READS:
http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4031660.Stephanie_Burkhart

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Excerpt Monday - From Victorian Scoundrel

Mena Suvari, inspiration for Alice Windsor



"Victorian Scoundrel" is a steampunk romance. Set in London, 1851, Alice "cons" Grayson out of his scent. *wink*
Enjoy!
Steph



He leaned forward. "I would like to see you again, Miss Windsor."

Alice nipped at her lower lip. He smelled of soap with a hint of spice. She wanted to see him again as well, especially since she would need his help getting her necklace back, but what was she going to tell him? That she was a royal from the future and she really didn't have a place to stay right now? That was too unbelievable. Besides, she shouldn't be leaving her fingerprints, either. "Ah, I'm uncertain what my cousin has planned for us."

"Let me remind you that you need your necklace back."

"Indeed I do. Perhaps you can give me your scent, and I'll contact you tomorrow with a whuzzie."

A whuzzie was a small mechanical ball with wings like a bird. It had a small opening on the top to hold handwritten correspondence. On the bottom was a voice recorder and space for the scent of the person you wanted to send the whuzzie to. The whuzzie matched the scent to the person's name and each scent was unique. An ounce of coal powered the whuzzie, which was good for a trip and a return trip. It was the acceptable way to deliver messages in this time period.

He furrowed his brow. "You are an odd one, aren't you?"

"Me? Why do you say that?"


"A gentleman is supposed to be the one to make arrangements to see a lady."

Alice wrinkled her nose, felt her glasses slide down the bridge of her nose, and pushed them back into place. What could she tell him? Oh, in my time it's no big deal for a guy to give a girl his scent?

Grayson cocked his head. Uncertainty pooled in those expressive hazel eyes of his. Alice decided the best approach should be sincerity.

"My Lord--"

"Grayson, please."

"I do know how to properly address you."

"I didn't doubt it for a minute, I would prefer you call me Grayson."

A warm gentle wave washed over Alice. Why did the man have to be so charming? And why did that dimple in his right cheek pop out when his smile was especially deep and wide, confounding her pulse even more? She returned his smile despite her better judgment. "Grayson, quite honestly, this day has been one surprise after another for me. When I woke up, I had no idea I'd be visiting Buckingham Palace."

"I believe you."

"So believe me when I say I have no idea how this day is going to end. I'll know more when I meet with my cousin, Edmund."
He slowly nodded his head, giving his reluctant acquiescence.

"Grayson, I promise if you give me your scent, I'll be in touch with you tomorrow."

He reached into his frock jacket, pulled out a small vial and handed it to her.

"Thank you," she said.
"You're welcome."


BUY LINK PAGE:http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-183/Stephanie-Burkhart-Victorian-Scoundrel/Detail.bok

Excerpt Monday - A Polish Heart

Blurb: When Darrin falls for his beautiful Polish interpreter, will Sophia's faith give him his heart back?
The Set up: Darrin and Sophia are finishing dinner at a local restaurant.

The waiter came and Darrin gave him his credit card.

"I'd invite you shopping with us, but I'm afraid you have a lot of work to do."

Darrin frowned. He did, but he hated to miss the opportunity to learn about the Easter basket and go shopping for it.
"Why don't you join us for mass on Palm Sunday?"

"Really? A mass? I haven't been in months. I'd need a confession."

"Do you want me to ask Father William if it would be permissible for me to translate for him? He takes confessions on Saturday afternoons."

"All right."

"You can work in the morning. I'll call you in the afternoon. Do you mind taking the metro again?"

"That's fine."

"What if he can't take your confession?" asked Sofia.

"I'll still go to mass with you, but I'd like to be able to receive the Eucharist."

Her smile widened, warming his heart.

"I would like that. I'll do my best to help get you a confession."

The waiter returned and Darrin signed the bill. They left. Sofia's car was parked in front of her house. The car ride back to his hotel was silent. She'd given him a lot to think about. How did he want to live his life? Falsely, trying to meet his parents' expectations? Or did he want to let his heart breathe? He was twenty-nine. Wasn't he entitled to let himself follow his own course? He had a good job, a nice apartment – he just had to live the way he wanted. And he had to guard his heart, turn away dishonesty and keep his eyes firmly on the path ahead, as the rest of the verse advised.

Sofia pulled up to the front of the hotel and put the car in park. Darrin turned to face her. The fringes of her lashes cast shadows on her cheeks, softening her expression. He reached out and gently took her hand in his. Her touch sent warm tendrils of desire through him. With the other hand, he cupped her cheek. She closed her eyes, and drew in a sharp breath before opening them again.

Lightly, he rubbed his thumb against her jaw.
"May I kiss you?" His voice was low and husky.

"Yes."

He leaned forward, his lips feather light, touching hers with tantalizing persuasion until she opened up to him. He kept the kiss slow, thoughtful, enjoying the hints of berries and currants that lingered from the malbec. He pulled away gently.
"That was nice," she whispered.
"Call me tomorrow."
"I will."
Darrin opened the door and stepped out. He waved to Sofia and she waved back as she drove away.

Darrin went to his room and revisited his luggage, removing his travel Bible from an inner pocket. He always took it with him, just in case. Opening it up, he went to the book of Proverbs, sat up against the headboard of the bed, and began to read.


Book Trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lC6_397PerU


Buy Links:

Print Book:
Create Space: https://www.createspace.com/3579108

Ebook:
Lulu: (PDF) http://www.lulu.com/product/ebook/a-springeaster-collection-sweet/15166166

Smashwords: (multiple formats) http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/48682

The Anthology is also avail on Amazon as a Print & Ebook for Kindle.



Find me on the Web at:

WEBSITE:
http://www.stephanieburkhart.com

FACEBOOK:
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1357922219

GOODREADS:
http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4031660.Stephanie_Burkhart

My new cover! The Wolf's Torment

Hi all, just wanted to share my latest cover - this one is "The Wolf's Torment" which will be out 1 MAY 2011 with Desert Breeze. The cover artist is Jenifer Ranieri and I love it. I really captures the gothic overtones of the story. I thought today I'd share a blurb and an excerpt from the novel. (Disclaimer: We're in the final stages of editing, but the excerpt might change a little between now and publication. Enjoy!)

Leave a comment and I'll pick one lucky winner to receive a PDF copy of Heart of Moldavia, a prequel short story.

BLURB:

It's 1865 in Moldavia, a country nestled against the shores of the Black Sea, and Crown Prince Mihai Sigmaringen returns after receiving an education in England. His best friend, Viktor Bacau joins him. Mihai is intent on modernizing his nation, but he's also a witch, and it's time he embraces his heritage. The tasks in front of him are many including getting married.

Lady Theresa von Kracken arrives in Constanta as Mihai's intended. Mihai has vowed not to fall in love again, but Theresa manages to break the battlements around his heart.

In an unfortunate twist of fate, Viktor is bitten by a werewolf. Viktor's transformation threatens everyone around him including his wife's safety and Mihai's happiness with Theresa. Viktor's bite is the wolf's torment.

THE SET UP:
Mihai has taken Theresa to his tower in Delfin Castle and they are getting to know each other better:

EXCERPT:

"We'll go as soon as it warms up. Do you have any idea where you would like to go for your honeymoon?" Mihai asked.

She smiled as heat seeped into her cheeks. "I have too many places I'd like to visit. What do you suggest?"

"We could take the yacht to Constantinople."

"All right."
He wrinkled his brow. "That was almost too easy."

"I am very agreeable, but you'll find I do have my opinions."

"I look forward to taking you on several adventures -- and hearing your opinions."

She smiled, glad that he was opening up with her.

"Can I ask you a question? You must promise to keep it between us," he said.
She nodded.

"Did you dream of me during Christmas?"
Her stomach tightened, a little anxious. "Yes, I dreamed of you."
"Were you being chased by a wolf?"
"I was."

His face lit up. "So it's true -- we've been sharing dreams since we were little."

She nodded her head, surprised he was so accepting of it. It had been unnerving at first, but she had learned to enjoy it.
"Do you know why that is?" he asked.

"No, I don't understand it, but I know what I feel."
"What do you feel?"

"Every experience in my dreams was real and true."
He nodded, agreeing with her. "I know why."
"Why?" She rubbed her chin with a finger.

"Again, I must have your confidence."
"Of course."

"My mother was a witch. I have inherited her gifts."
"I know nothing about witches."

Relief crossed his face. "I don't know much myself. My mother died when I was ten and I wasn't trained."

She accepted him at his word, his tone of voice full of conviction.

"Is Sonia a witch?"
"Most likely. We've never really wanted to explore that side of us."

"Why not?"

He scrubbed the back of his head, a little uncomfortable, but remembered Sonia's words. Be honest. "Well, I think we've both been afraid. We didn't want other people to think we were different."

"I wouldn't say you were different, just unique."

"This doesn't bother you?" he asked.

"I may know nothing of witches or witchcraft, but it makes sense how we were able to share dreams, and quite honestly, I liked the dreams we've shared."

"So have I," he replied.

He placed his hand over hers. A spark of warmth trailed up her arm. "I'm starting to learn more about witchcraft, so I hope you won't be afraid. I want to understand my gift."

She studied his expression. This was a deep-seated fear of his. He didn't want to possess these talents, but he was willing to learn more so he understood it and he wanted her to accept this about him. She sensed something deeper from his expression -- he couldn't bear her rejection.

"I will never leave you," she said, softly. And she meant it.

A small smile graced his lips. Again, it grew quiet, but Theresa believed she had earned a certain degree of trust from him.

*******
The Wolf's Torment will be released 1 MAY as an ebook avail on Kindle, Sony ereader, B&N Nook

Excerpt Monday - Shadows & Light

"Shadows & Light" is my science fiction short story in the Borealis II Anthology which will be released by Desert Breeze Publishing on 1 NOV. Here's a bit of an excerpt to tease you... Enjoy!

Elijah Kess hated the stench of sulfur -- and the space dock stunk of it. Other than that, nothing seemed out of the ordinary. Two supply ships had just landed; one from Pith, and one marked with TPP symbols. Shadows refracted off his dark grey uniform. Beams of brilliant white light shined off his gold lieutenant rank square.

The hair on the back of his neck prickled. Something didn't feel right. The air smelled off -- the sulfur stench was thicker. The Borealis space station thrummed to the steady beat of business.

He glanced at the chronometer on his wrist. Thank The Greater Power it was time to go patrol the merchant area. He went to the personal access door and pressed his hand against the rectangular access panel.

"Lieutenant Elijah Kantor. Cleared," came a metallic male voice. The door slid open with mechanical grace. He stepped through. Working deep under cover for the Rebellion, Elijah Kess had become Elijah Kantor. Fellow TPP Enforcer, Dax Hydron, waited for him.

"Hey, Kantor, ready to switch?"
"Yeah. The bay is clear."
"The merchants are--"
"Get it off me!"

Elijah and Dax turned in the direction of the cry. A civilian dressed in a dark green overcoat ran past Korn, the latest bar to open on the main commerce level. He pushed several patrons to the ground as they exited. The civilian's hair was stringy and greasy, his eyes bloodshot, and white foam spewed from the corner of his mouth.

"Bloody Hera! Uudon overdose?" asked Dax.

"Let's hope he's not contagious," said Elijah. "Let's go."

Elijah took off at a sprint, Dax on his heels. The OD locked eyes with Elijah for a split second, then turned and ran. In that second, Elijah saw fear -- primal fear. What could cause that?

His pulse rifle was attached to a suicide strap, but Elijah couldn't fire it -- not a good idea in a crowd of civilians. He slung it over his shoulder so the gun rested on his back.

Civilians rushed to get out of the way. Elijah sidestepped the ones who had been shoved to the ground by the OD.

The OD slowed. Elijah pushed his legs to go faster, pumping his arms, keeping his eyes locked on his prey.

As the OD turned a corner, he shoved a woman right at Elijah. He took the extra second to push her away from him. "I'm sorry," he muttered.

She nodded her head. Elijah sprinted off. That bastard was giving him a good chase.

Dax was three paces behind Elijah. The OD had collapsed. His breathing was labored, his eyes were blood red and white foam dribbled over his chin. A person in a dark cloak ripped off the OD's sleeve. An obsidian patch, two inches in diameter, covered the OD's bicep.

"Stop!" cried Elijah.

Startled, the figure bolted up. Elijah drew in a breath and took off in a sprint. The figure began to run away from the OD, but Elijah was faster. He tackled the figure -- a woman, from the curves of her body. The patch went flying out of her hand.
Elijah reached for her wrists, pinning her against the floor. He could feel her body underneath his -- warm, perfectly shaped. The cloak fell to the side, partially revealing her face.

She had the warmest chocolate brown eyes he'd ever seen. Round and wide -- yet full of apprehension. She had thick raven-black hair, long, down to her mid-back. Her olive-toned complexion was flawless. For a second, he hungered to run his hands through the luscious mane of her hair.

"Who are you?" he asked.

She thrust her body toward his, taking his mouth with a kiss.

Stunned, Elijah allowed her lips to caress his. They were warm, sensual, tasting of honey.

"Persephone."

Her voice in his head startled him.
"Let me go."

******

The Anthology will be avail on Kindle, Sony Ebook Reader, The Nook, All Romance Ebooks, and at the Desert Breeze site. Here's a link:

http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-121/Borealis-Space-Anthology-Stephanie/Detail.bok

Excerpt Monday - The Hungarian

The Set up: Katherine and Matthias meet.


The door squeaked open. Katherine peeked over the top of her book. A tall, muscular man walked in wearing a white button-down shirt and holding his blazer. He paused, as if surprised to find her, and then began to quietly walk toward the window. He moved with wolf-like prowess, his long legs taking cool, calculated steps as his unusual eyes surveyed her. Katherine bit the inside of her lip, returning his measured perusal with one of her own. His silence was unnerving, yet intriguing.

His eyes drew her to him – malachite green with a gold ring around the iris. Dynamic. Expressive. Even now, as he looked at her, they softened and grew translucent. Finally, he stopped in front of the window and casually threw his blazer onto a nearby chair as if he owned the room.

"Hello," he said.
"Hello."
"You're staring."
"I am? I thought you were staring at me."
He chuckled. "Perhaps I was admiring you."
"Me?"
"Who else is here?"

Katherine pursed her lips as her insides warmed from the deep silkiness of his voice. He smiled, and walked over to her chair, slowly gliding around it, tracing his finger over the leather headrest, skirting her curly hair.

"What's your name?" he asked.

"And who is inquiring?" She tried to sound cool and composed, but she had to fight the nervous temptation to play with her hands.

"Romeo, perhaps?"
"Then my name is Juliet."

A teasing smile graced his lips as he walked out from behind her chair and glanced at a bookshelf before turning to look at her again.

"Would you fall for Tristan?"

"Only if my name were Isolde."

He walked over to a wooden table near the window and ran his long finger over a clay mock-up of Excalibur lodged in a stone. "What do you think of 'Arthur?' Do you think it suits me?"

"Only Guinevere would believe your name was Arthur."

He crossed his arms, his eyes sparkling in the sunlight. "Would you believe my name was Matthias?"

"I might, if—"
"If what?"
"If I knew more about you."

Check out "The Hungarian's" Book Trailer at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MZwaF8hAdow

The Hungarian Released on 1 MAY 2010 with Desert Breeze Publishing. Here's a link to the site: http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-87/%3Ci%3EBudapest-Moon-Book-One%3C-fdsh-i%3E-cln-/Detail.bok

Reviews:

5 Stars, Author Tami Dee, "The Mists of Time Series"
Ms. Burkhart's writing is crisp, her imagery vivid. The story is compelling and the reader will find their selves not wanting it to end.

4 Stars, Nalisha Bradford, Reader
You are not lost or confused, and your
interest is held as you are touched by everyone in this story.

This ends with you wanting to continue on with their stories and
where it could lead you next, 'Book Two'.

5 Stars, Shawna K. Williams, Author of "No Other"
This book is a beautiful blend of history and mystique. And it's terribly romantic. Terribly!

5 Stars Margaret Young, Reader
By the time Katherine discovers Matthias's secret, Stephanie has us thoroughly invested in this endearing, page-turning tale of werewolves, witches, friends, and enemies, all striving and driving for one end -- happily-ever-after. This is a must-read for anyone who loves a good love-story with a twist. You won't be disappointed.

Excerpt Monday - From Matchmaking Amusement in the BeMused Anthology

Isolde turned to look and discovered a tall, male muse with an upturned nose and shamrock green eyes -- a pixie muse! He had long, soft brown hair with chestnut highlights and his skin tone was a little darker than most muses, bordering on olive. He had such a rich, inviting smile it warmed her to her bones. She nibbled on her lower lip for a second, realizing he must also recognize her as a pixie muse, took a breath, and flashed him a smile.

"Ah, no."

"You looked a little overwhelmed. Want some help?"

"Sure."

He offered his hand, palm up, in the traditional muse greeting. "I'm Tristan."

She put her hand on his and a zip of warm tingles pulsed up her arm. "I'm Isolde."

He chuckled. "Uncanny. What namesakes we have -- ancient lovers with a passionate story."

Scarlett Johansson, inspiration for "Isolde."
She felt her cheeks prickle. "It was a passionate story."

"Well, you have a lovely name."

"Thank you," said Isolde.

"Ah, so, do you have a hotel?"

"The Wittelsbach."

"I'm there, too." He paused, his lips curving into a sweet smile. "Want to share a cab?"

Isolde loved his friendly demeanor, and his classical pixie looks warmed her to her toes. She wiggled them to make sure they were still tingling.

He pointed to the cab platform and Isolde fell in step beside him. "Are you here on vacation?" he asked.

"Yes."

"How did you hear about this place?"

"Well, my human wrote about it in her last book so I thought I'd check it out," replied Isolde.

They stepped out into the crisp German air. The scent of fresh cut grass made Isolde's wings hum with excitement under her clothes. The sky was cerulean blue without a cloud in the sky, and the sun was as warm as an apple tart pulled right out of the oven. What a lovely place Berchtesgaden was.

They stepped up to the platform and Tristan flagged down a cab.

Isolde helped him load the bags in the back while the cab driver waited in the front seat.

Chace Crawford, inspiration for "Tristan"
"So, you've never been?" he asked.

"Nope."

"I was here once when my writer was in the military. It's lovely. If you want, I can show you around."

"You hardly know me," said Isolde.

He shut the trunk and looked directly at her. His warm, penetrating gaze shot through her heart like an arrow on fire. "But I'd like to get to know you."

Excerpt Monday - The Hungarian

Here's an excerpt from my latest release, "The Hungarian." Sign up to FOLLOW me here on blogspot between now and Friday, 22 MAY and be eligable to win a $6.00 GC from Desert Breeze. Smiles, Steph

*****

Martin struck up the guitar and she kept the beat with her tambourine. Matthias hardly felt rusty even though it had been two years since he had danced the Verbunkos. He easily kept time with the music. The dance involved a lot of jumping as well as clapping. He centered the dance around Resa spinning and twirling around her. It allowed him to keep his concentration on the dance. The music built to a fast pace and then stopped suddenly. Matthias ended the dance with a quick jump and fell to Resa's feet.

"Bravo, Count Duma!" Resa exclaimed.

Matthias got to his feet and smiled. Paul, Liz, and Katherine all clapped.

"Well done, Matthias!" cried Paul. "I've never seen a dance like that."

"Now it's time for you and Miss Archibald to dance," said Resa.

Katherine waved her hands. "I couldn't dance that."

"You don't have to. We can dance the Csándás," said Matthias.

Resa clapped her hands again. "Yes, it's perfect."

"I don't know how."

"I'll show you," said Resa.

"Go on, Kate," said Liz, smiling. "Give it a try."

Katherine took Matthias's hand, and he helped her to her feet. Martin and János played their music at a slow tempo. Resa showed her a couple of steps at a time. It took about ten minutes, but Katherine seemed to pick it up. Matthias danced it slow for her the first time. There wasn't much jumping, but it was a rather square-type dance, and there was clapping involved. When the song ended, Resa approached.

"Let me dance with Count Duma at the normal pace. Watch me. Try to twirl the skirt when I do."

Katherine nodded her head. Again, the music started, and Matthias danced with Resa. From time to time Resa would look at Katherine to make sure she was watching.
Matthias was pleased at how Resa was trying to help Katherine learn the dance.
The dance finished in a flurry of moves, with Matthias wrapping his hands around Resa's waist and Resa resting her head against his shoulder. She quickly parted from him and looked at Katherine. "Remember, it starts off slow but builds up to a quick ending."

"All right," Katherine said.

Matthias took Katherine's hand again. The music began. They danced in front of the fire. Liz and Paul clapped to the beat. They danced around the pit, laughing and clapping. The guitar played faster, the flute hit higher notes. Resa sang in Hungarian. They danced quicker, and when the Csándás ended, Resa threw powder into the fire. The fire crackled. It hissed loudly and then the flames turned colors -- purple, blue, green, and white before slowly returning to yellow. Matthias held Katherine tight against his muscular body. He felt her heart pulsing with energy just like his was.


****

Goodie Time: I'll be giving away two autographed postcards of the cover to two lucky posters. To be eligible to win, just post. I'll pick the winners out of a hat and announce the winners on the blog no later than the next day.

Link to the Book Trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MZwaF8hAdow

Links for the Books:

Desert Breeze Website:
http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-87/%3Ci%3EBudapest-Moon-Book-One%3C-fdsh-i%3E-cln-/Detail.bok

All Romance Books
http://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-budapestmoonbookonethehungarian-427260-139.html

Amazon for Kindle
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