Friday, March 15, 2024

99 cent sale. Only a few days left for this award winning Historical Western.

 Perfect for this snowy weekend, 
                or save for a lazy summer afternoon!

A man for hire and a widowed goat rancher. Will the total eclipse unite more than the sun and moon? And why does the old prospector keep tabs on the town and show up just when needed? 

What does he desire most, the woman or the artifacts? Until he met Una MacLaren, he’d have chosen the relics. Now this Scottish lass has him rethinking the direction of his life.  

Spirits long dead are not resting easily, and a more recent murder has yet to be solved. Will the return of the mythical white cougar lead them to answers or destruction? 

 



                                                Available here

Best Historical Western of the year! 
Best secondary character 
                                               Available here

#99centromance #historicalwesternromancesale #romance99cents

Wednesday, March 6, 2024

99 Cent Sale, Award winning Break Heart Canyon

March 6th thru March 20th
99 cent sale 



When cattlemen try to burn down Una MacLaren’s ranch, two loveable donkeys help MacTavish the Deerhound protect their mistress. 

                 Best Historical Romance of the Year.
from Colorado Author's League 
                                                                    
     
Best Secondary Character 
        from Still Moments Magazine 


99 Cents
  
  A man for hire and a widowed goat rancher. Will the total eclipse unite more than the sun and moon? And why does the old prospector keep tabs on the town and show up just when needed? 


Then the mythical white cougar is seen prowling the cliffs, and old myths and legends reawaken. Will Una and Ryker reveal the love in their heart, or are happy endings never to be had in Break Heart Canyon? 
                              

Blurb: 
   Unearthing artifacts in Colorado sounded like easy money to Ryker Landry. Then he met the woman who owned the land. 
   Una MacLaren vows no fortune hunter will desecrate the ancient relics of Break Heart Canyon—even if the man is a handsome scoundrel. Fighting to keep her goat farm afloat as local cattlemen hatch deadly schemes to make sure she fails, she has enough to worry about. 
    Captivated by the courageous redhead, Ryker joins forces with Una and her Deerhound, MacTavish. But what does he desire most, the woman or the artifacts? 
    When the mythical white cougar again prowls the rocky cliffs, the legend of Break Heart Canyon draws them into a web of danger. Now only daring and blind trust can save them. 
99 cents
                      




Blog www.ginirifkin.blogspot.com

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/people/Gini-Rifkin-Author/100001680213365

Amazon author              https://amzn.to/2R53KA9

The wild rose press       https://www.thewildrosepress.com/authors/gini-rifkin

Pinterest                         https://www.pinterest.com/ginirifkin/pins/

Goodreads                     http://bit.ly/2OnHbrK

Barnes and Noble          http://bit.ly/2xPs9S4

AudioBooks                  https://adbl.co/2OlWbGJ

LinkedIn                        https://www.linkedin.com/in/gini-rifkin-15950489/


#99centsaleromance #westernromance #historicalromance

Wednesday, February 28, 2024

Now part of the Cowboy Kisses group.


WOOO HOOO

                Today, my first post at Cowboy Kisses goes live! 

Ride on over to theVisit me at Cowboy Kisses and check out this fun website. You will find an amazing group of authors posting information on romance, the west, writing, and what new westerns have recently hit the shelves. 

Stories about cowboys, cowgirls, and westerns in general, have long stolen our hearts, and this is the place to find your next hero and heroine. 

                                   So don't be shy, 
                  Come on over, take a peek and stay a while.

https://cowboykisses.blogspot.com/2024/02/the-bones-war.html  



 

Sunday, December 24, 2023

Gini Rifkin featured in Colorado Sun Magazine

 So proud and excited to be honored with a feature article in the Colorado Sun Magazine. Read what inspired my book Break Heart Canyon and what I do in my "spare" time. 



Read article here!


Winner of Best Wester Romance of the Year 
from Colorado Author's League


Grab Your Copy Here


Unearthing artifacts in Colorado sounded like easy money to Ryker Landry. Then he met the woman who owned the land. 

Una MacLaren vows no fortune hunter will desecrate the ancient relics of Break Heart Canyon—even if the man is a handsome scoundrel. Fighting to keep her goat farm afloat as local cattlemen hatch deadly schemes to make sure she fails, she has enough to worry about. 

Captivated by the courageous redhead, Ryker joins forces with Una and her Deerhound, MacTavish. But what does he desire most, the woman or the artifacts? 

When the mythical white cougar again prowls the rocky cliffs, the legend of Break Heart Canyon draws them into a web of danger. Now only daring and blind trust can save them. 


#ColoradoSunMagazine #bestwesternromance #Romancenovels



Friday, December 15, 2023

Promise Me Christmas is a finalist!

                                   Thank you N.N. Light 
                                  5+ stars


"Promise Me Christmas is a heartwarming story of love and honor and keeping one’s promise, all wrapped in a medieval adventure sprinkled with humor and sweet romantic moments." 


$2.99
     The nights are growing longer and the winter snows are coming—Darkenwald Castle is under siege.  
    Lord Guy Blackthorne is prepared to lay down his life for his children, his wife, and all who seek his protection. But as renegades, mercenaries, and political intrigue surround his ancient family stronghold, he’s forced to stay his hand against those who would dare to attack his fortress.  
     As supplies and hope dwindle, Lady Vespa fears Yule will not be one of good cheer, and the children shall have no gifts this year. At least she and Guy have one another, for that she is thankful. But there are few private moments to share their love, and every endeavor to satisfy their passion is interrupted when the enemy attempts to invade the castle. 
     On Christmas Eve, when a battle to the death begins, Guy faces his greatest challenge. Now Vespa’s wish for a happy Yule celebration turns to a prayer for her beloved’s safety. 


N.N. Light's review 
As enemies attack on Christmas Eve, Lord Guy prepares to die to save his family while Lady Vespa prays for her husband’s life. Will this Yule be draped in greenery or black? Promise Me Christmas is a heart wrenching medieval romance I couldn’t put down. The descriptive narration is poignant and draws the reader into the story. The setting is historically accurate. The world-building is immersive. The characters, though, are what make Promise Me Christmas a book worth reading this holiday season.
 
Let’s start with the characters. The characters are well-written, emotive, and right in line with the era. I connected with both Lord Guy and Lady Vespa. Such a lovely couple who finds happiness when and where they can. Even with the threat of war, their love is unwavering. The rest of the characters are expertly written.
 
The narration is very detailed with impressive world-building. The tone and foreshadowing speak volumes about the time period. Every scene is described down to the last detail. I found myself becoming a part of the story the more I read.
 
I love medieval romance and this medieval holiday romance spoke to my heart. Brilliant from start to finish, Promise Me Christmas took my breath away. I can honestly confess it’s a gem and a reread.
 
My Rating: 5+ stars









Friday, December 8, 2023

Christmas stories galore and a chance to win $75 gift card.

                    Calling all holiday-themed readers! 
                          N.N. Light Festival 
                    a great place to shop and 
              you could win a $75 Amazon gift card.
        
43 holiday-themed books including
Promise Me Christmas 
a medieval romance 
to warm your heart all season long. 
 
I’m thrilled to be a part of this event. My book, Promise Me Christmaswill be featured on Dec. 8th.             But you can you can sign up any day.
Then scroll down to bottom of page! 

                             

Blurb:

   The nights are growing longer and the winter snows are coming—Darkenwald Castle is under siege.  

    Lord Guy Blackthorne is prepared to lay down his life for his children, his wife, and all who seek his protection. But as renegades, mercenaries, and political intrigue surround his ancient family stronghold, he’s forced to stay his hand against those who would dare to attack his fortress.  

     As supplies and hope dwindle, Lady Vespa fears Yule will not be one of good cheer, and the children shall have no gifts this year. At least she and Guy have one another, for that she is thankful. But there are few private moments to share their love, and every endeavor to satisfy their passion is interrupted when the enemy attempts to invade the castle. 

   On Christmas Eve, when a battle to the death begins, Guy faces his greatest challenge. Now Vespa’s wish for a happy Yule celebration turns to a prayer for her beloved’s safety. 

Enter contest here 

(then scroll down to bottom of page!)



                    

                              Happy Holidays!


#medievalromance #holidayread #nnlightbookhaven #



Tuesday, November 14, 2023

RELEASE DAY for Promise Me Christmas.

           

                    Thank you Mistress of Book Reviews
         for the cover art, editing, and making this possible.
                      Mistress of Book Reviews
    
Back cover Blurb:
    The nights are growing longer and the winter snows are coming—Darkenwald Castle is under siege.  Lord Guy Blackthorne is prepared to lay down his life for his children, his wife, and all who seek his protection. But as renegades, mercenaries, and political intrigue surround his ancient family stronghold, he’s forced to stay his hand against those who would dare to attack his fortress.  
    As supplies and hope dwindle, Lady Vespa fears Yule will not be one of good cheer, and the children shall have no gifts this year. At least she and Guy have one another, for that she is thankful. But there are few private moments to share their love, and every endeavor to satisfy their passion is interrupted when the enemy attempts to invade the castle. 

On Christmas Eve, when a battle to the death begins, Guy faces his greatest challenge. Now Vespa’s wish for a happy Yule celebration turns to a prayer for her beloved’s safety. 

               

                  Grab your copy here....only $2.99
           5  STARS Still Moments Magazine 
                           Reviewed by Darlene  

This medieval historical romance was a captivating read. I enjoyed the twist of having the main characters married. Their lives were already intertwined, but during war-filled times, they had to always be prepared to defend their home and livelihood, which created a distance they longed to fill. 

    The plot and characters were well-developed, giving the story a smooth reading flow. The author has a great descriptive voice that places you in the scenes.

   Guy listening and taking Vespa's ideas into consideration on how to help defeat the enemy shows his love, devotion, and respect for his wife, which strengthens their relationship, and makes this story a perfect holiday read. I highly recommend picking up a copy of this book. Rating 5 Stars Reviewed by Darlene

                       ---------------------------

 5 STARS Mistress of Book Reviews 

 When it comes to romance, in most cases the book ends with the happily ever after motto. But did you ever wonder what happened to all those stalwart handsome warriors and their brave ladies?  Well, I can tell you Gini Rifkin certainly did when it comes to her book.  She takes the reader inside a marriage and shows that to find happiness forever, you must battle life.  Especially in the 13th century when you do not always know who the enemy is until it’s almost too late.

  Guy Blackthorne and his beloved wife, Vespa, of Darkenwald are a couple that will sweep you into their lives purely because it shows the truth of marriage, war, and love. Remember not everything is tied up with ribbons and pretty paper. Sometimes the best love stories are those that are lived, loved, and linger in the minds of not only the hero and heroine but readers as well.  This book is one of those. And if you believe that married couples aren’t as sexy as single ones, then you are wrong and missing out on a relationship that most married people would love.

Guy has always known Vespa was the woman for him.  Sent away at an early age to fight in the Crusades, he not only brought home scars but his abiding love for her.  After being wedded and bedded both Lord and Lady Blackthorne endure what life sends their way. Never doubting their love is as secure as the keep they live in. But now Christmas is drawing nigh, supplies are dwindling, and the enemy is at the door. Vespa knows Guy is the bravest warrior she’s ever known, but sometimes his inability to listen to the weaker sex is frustrating and could lead to his wife taking matters into her own hands.

The insight into this couple of warriors, for they both are warriors, regardless of gender, is awesome. And the steps they take to protect their own is extraordinary.  With little at hand, but faith that is strong, the Blackthorns' of Darkenwald fight to leave a legacy for their children.  Will they win? Well, the truth about life is that nothing is for certain, so pick up your copy of Promise Me Christmas by Gini Rifkin and find out for yourself. This book blessed me as a woman, a reader, and a book reviewer. 

Tag Gini Rifkin pairs love, marriage, and battle into a beautiful tale of life in medieval times. Promise Me Christmas is a must read!

Excerpt:   Northumbria, England, December 1264

     “I can feel it in the air, Thomas. Like the land is holding its breath.” Lord Guy Blackthorne directed his remark to the man riding at his side. Thomas glanced at the murky forest nearby. “Far be it from me to doubt your words. In the past, your deep awareness of our surroundings has saved our backsides more than a time or two.” As they traversed the cleared area surrounding Castle Darkenwald, Guy’s gelding tossed its head and sidestepped a few paces. Did the gray brindle also sense trouble brewing? Guy trusted his horse’s reactions nearly as much as the unease twisting through his gut.

    The renegade barons roaming Mercia were now reported to be heading toward Northumbria. Thankfully, Guy had taken the safeguard of sending a runner south to alert his brother. And the

perimeter sentry he’d posted had yet to see anyone lurking about. All remained peaceful on his hundred. Still, at the moment, the feeling of disquiet spoke otherwise, and he was glad today he had ordered the castle soldiers to train outside, and his bowmen to be stationed on

the battlements.

    A large group of villagers and tenants had recently come to Darkenwald seeking protection, and this morning, several of them labored outside near the castle walls collecting the last of the dried garden herbs and sweet chestnuts. His wife, Vespa, was among those toiling on this temperate winter day. The sight of her gladdened his heart, just as her touch this morning when they were still abed, had pleased his body and heartened his soul—a recollection to be cherished.

     At the sudden warning blast from the border guard’s hunting horn, Guy jerked to attention. His pleasant memories were crushed, replaced with his worst nightmare. The distant and unmistakable sound of men and horses crashing through the forest soon followed.

     The call to arms he’d sensed coming was upon them.

     “Run, Vespa. And don’t look back until you reach the castle. Do you hear me, Vespa? Run, and don’t look back.”

                                     ✠ ✠ ✠ ✠

     Her husband, Lord Guy Blackthorne, sounded roaring mad, his words sharp with worry for her safety and ringing with anger for this unprovoked attack.

     “I hear you,” she shouted to him. And dear Lord, keep him safe, she silently added.

    Released from shocked immobility, Vespa scrambled over the rough terrain, her desperate plea echoing through her mind. Keep him safe, keep him safe, keep him safe.

     Not daring to glance back at the man she loved with all of her heart, she gritted her teeth and ran harder, faster. Guy would watch her progress all the way to the stronghold risking his own wellbeing, dividing his attention until he knew she was out of danger.

     The soles of her everyday footwear offered poor protection from the sharp stones, and she nearly tripped over an abandoned basket spilling forth the sweet chestnuts they’d been gathering.    

    Farther up the stony incline, her friend Edith urged her onward. Reaching the woman, she grasped the extended hand, and side by side they rushed to the entrance of the barbican. Only then, did Vespa stop and turn to witness the carnage unleashed beyond the castle proper. Her husband had survived many a battle—today was her first encounter with the ugly face of warfare.

    Sword drawn and turning his beloved gray gelding to face the enemy, Guy made a stand, buying time for all who had been caught outside the protective walls. He rallied the house soldiers to fight for their heartland, and as metal met metal, voices cried out in pain and triumph, and the ravens circled the battlefield.

     Outnumbered, Guy and his soldiers fought with their hearts and souls as well as their swords as they defended the land and their families. By shear will, they drove the traitors and mercenaries back into the surrounding woods. And when the last of the villagers who’d come seeking protection flooded through the castle gate, Guy called for his men to also return to Darkenwald.

     First to the battle line and last to retreat, Guy then ordered the portcullis to be lowered as he followed behind his men. In a hail of arrows and riding for all he was worth, he barely crossed the threshold as the obedient guardsmen in the tower sent the heavy iron grillwork crashing to the ground.

       They were safe—safe and trapped inside.