Catherine E. Chapman

Biography

I write women's fiction and historical and contemporary romance. My longer works have been described as accessible character fiction; they are often humorous.

For tasters of my writing, five short stories are available to download for free from Smashwords & their retailers.

Many thanks to all who have reviewed, recommended and rated my books; I really appreciate feedback from readers.

My seven short historical romances, set in periods ranging from Medieval times to the Twentieth Century, are available, digitally and in print, in one volume, 'Collected Romances.' My full-length historical romances include 'Miss Millie's Groom,' a subtle romance set during the Great War, and 'The Knight's Falconess,' a sensual Medieval romance.

'The Laird's Right-Hand Lady,' a contemporary romance set in the Scottish Highlands, and 'Art & Grace,' a novel set in Regency England, are amongst my most recent publications on Smashwords. Some of my books and stories are available as Audiobooks from Google Play and other retailers.

Smashwords Interview

When did you first start writing?
I wanted to write from being a teenager but I think I believed that life had to be exciting in order to warrant writing about it. It wasn't until I was older that I realised life as lived could be the source of fiction. Of course, the fictional worlds you create are very different from real life but I think, once you get beyond a belief that your own life has to be remarkable in order to inform your writing, then you can actually get somewhere with starting to write.
How has Smashwords contributed to your success?
Smashwords has been invaluable in helping me to develop as an indie writer. There are other publishers catering for the needs of indies but Smashwords seems to be unique in regarding its authors as stakeholders in the development and success of the indie publishing movement, of which it is at the forefront. That sense of being part of something bigger is both empowering and fulfilling.
Read more of this interview.

Books

Art & Grace
Price: $2.99 USD. Words: 75,730. Language: English. Published: February 10, 2021 . Categories: Fiction » Romance » Multicultural & Interracial, Fiction » Historical » Regency
Bristol, England, in the early 19th Century. The slave trade has been abolished but slavery itself has not been outlawed. Bess, a young woman of mixed heritage, has an ambiguous role in the Liston family. When Richard Liston introduces Captain Adam Bryce, a Royal Naval officer of repute, to his sister, Artemisia, Adam encounters Bess and a web of deceit begins. "A story that will have you hooked."
The Laird's Right-Hand Lady
Price: $2.99 USD. Words: 40,680. Language: English. Published: January 24, 2018 . Categories: Fiction » Romance » Contemporary, Fiction » Women's fiction » Chick lit
(4.00 from 1 review)
Jess is Cameron’s newly-appointed PA. Instantly attracted to Cameron, Jess begins to suspect that her feelings are reciprocated. But Cameron’s father is determined that his son should make a match fit for a Laird. Will Cameron live up to his father’s expectations or follow his heart? "Who doesn't love a Scottish castle and a handsome Laird-in-waiting?" (4-star Review, Goodreads).
The Fight for Dolores
Price: $0.99 USD. Words: 16,840. Language: English. Published: October 28, 2017 . Categories: Fiction » Romance » Contemporary, Fiction » Women's fiction » Chick lit
When Cal McCoy, American heir to a business empire, shows an interest in buying West Lough Lodge in rural Ireland, his real estate agent, Maggie O’Reilly, does her best to put him off. She has good reason to prevent the sale and can’t abide Cal. He is determined to get his palatial, lakeside residence but, before long, the pursuit of Maggie becomes his main goal. "A sweet, cute, short story."
Miss Millie's Groom
Price: $2.99 USD. Words: 41,410. Language: English. Published: March 10, 2017 . Categories: Fiction » Romance » Historical » General, Fiction » Women's fiction » General
It is the summer of 1914 and Britain teeters on the brink of war. Society girl, Millicent Awbridge, is oblivious to the impending conflict and preoccupied with the recent shooting of her horse. When she confronts the culprit, Ryan O'Flynn, a groom in her father's service, Millie finds romance rather than hostility. But can she and Ryan ever be truly united? "Great read," (5-star review).
Collected Romances
Price: $2.99 USD. Words: 62,480. Language: English. Published: July 14, 2015 . Categories: Fiction » Romance » Historical » General, Fiction » Romance » Short stories
Seven of Catherine E. Chapman's short historical romances collected in one volume, to give you an overall novel-length read. Stories ranging in time and tone from the subtle wartime tale, 'The Hangar Dance,' to the darkly sensual, 'Danburgh Castle,' set in Norman Britain. "These are good stories ... I enjoyed them all," (5 star review, Feb. 2015, Goodreads).
High Sea
Price: $0.99 USD. Words: 10,290. Language: English. Published: February 5, 2015 . Categories: Fiction » Romance » Historical » Victorian, Fiction » Romance » Clean & wholesome
Samantha, a seamstress, stows away on a ship bound for Australia, disguised as a boy. Discovered by the ship's doctor, she becomes his assistant but rapidly finds that her growing feelings for Doctor John mean that her disguise is a hindrance, rather than a help. When the feisty Estelle McEwan enters the scene, things become even more complicated for Sam. "A very good story," (5-star review).
The Office Party
Price: Free! Words: 2,170. Language: English. Published: August 1, 2014 . Categories: Fiction » Romance » Workplace, Fiction » Women's fiction » General
In the run up to their Christmas works' party, Maria's colleague, Clair, has her eye on the new guy, Alex. But it's Maria herself who finds she's the object of unexpected attention. A short story for Christmas. 'Well-written,' (Goodreads). 'Cute,' (Barnes & Noble).
The Family Tree
Price: Free! Words: 2,280. Language: English. Published: May 17, 2014 . Categories: Fiction » Women's fiction » General, Fiction » Mystery & detective » Short Stories
When Jack finds a wooden box in his grandma's attic, a family secret is unearthed and his grandma faces a dilemma: should she keep it in the family or keep it to herself? A short story. "A nice, well-edited, mystery," (Nook Review). "Well-written short story ... a sweet but sad tale," (Goodreads Review).
Three Medieval Romances: Braggot Park, Danburgh Castle & Rhiannon
Price: $1.99 USD. Words: 27,090. Language: English. Published: March 3, 2014 . Categories: Fiction » Romance » Historical » General, Fiction » Romance » Short stories
A collection of three sensual romances, set in the Medieval and Elizabethan eras. 'The plot was tight and kept me engaged; good characterisation meant I truly cared about what was happening,' (4-star review, Danburgh Castle). 'Very well-written and fast-paced,' (4-star review, Braggot Park). 'A bed-time story for grown-up girls,' (4-star review, Rhiannon). 'Enjoyable short reads; talented author.'
Braggot Park
Price: $0.99 USD. Words: 9,550. Language: English. Published: February 2, 2014 . Categories: Fiction » Romance » Historical » General, Fiction » Romance » Gothic
(4.00 from 1 review)
Eliza, lady-in-waiting to Lady Jane, is sent to work in the household of the noblewoman's brother-in-law, Sir Richard. Upon arrival at Braggot Park, Eliza encounters his son, Lorenzo, and swiftly falls under his spell. But all is not as it seems at Braggot Park; Eliza faces a dilemma: should she tell Sir Richard the truth? A short, sensual Elizabethan romance. "Very well-written and fast-paced."
Opening Night
Price: Free! Words: 1,840. Language: English. Published: January 2, 2014 . Categories: Fiction » Women's fiction » Chick lit, Fiction » Romance » General
(4.50 from 2 reviews)
Lisa is invited to the opening night of the local am-dram production by her friend, Maddie. There she encounters Jason, an old flame, but she's daunted by the glamorous young woman on his arm. Just who is Alice? "A sweet short story; a second chance with first love. A well-written read," (Goodreads). "Fun," (4-star review, Smashwords).
Clifton
Price: $0.99 USD. Words: 30,790. Language: English. Published: December 14, 2013 . Categories: Fiction » Women's fiction » General, Fiction » Romance » General
Michelle, involuntarily single thirty-something, is living beyond her means but desperate to retain the flat and urbane lifestyle she enjoys in the sought-after suburb of Clifton. When she meets Lawrence, successful businessman, she thinks her prayers may have been answered. A darkly comic novella about two love affairs played out against a backdrop of aspiration and ambition.
All The Trimmings
Price: Free! Words: 1,340. Language: English. Published: October 22, 2013 . Categories: Fiction » Romance » General, Fiction » Women's fiction » Chick lit
A short story for Christmas. Issy is nervous about introducing her new boyfriend to her family on Christmas Day. "A well-written, cute, short read," (Goodreads).
Three Romances: Brizecombe Hall, Kitty & The Hangar Dance
Price: $1.99 USD. Words: 25,830. Language: English. Published: September 10, 2013 . Categories: Fiction » Romance » Historical » General, Fiction » Romance » Short stories
(4.00 from 1 review)
Collection of three historical romances that are short & sweet: "5 stars; perfect for a quick romance fix!" Brizecombe Hall - set in Victorian England, 'A young woman must value, above all else, her virtue.' Kitty - "Captured the spirit of our well-loved Regency romances far better than some lengthier works." The Hangar Dance - set during World War II, "A story about love, innocence and loss."
Kitty
Price: $0.99 USD. Words: 9,930. Language: English. Published: July 18, 2013 . Categories: Fiction » Romance » Regency, Fiction » Romance » Clean & wholesome
(4.00 from 4 reviews)
Kitty Lewis travels with her younger sister to join their family for the season in Bath. With time, her plan to keep her head firmly fixed in a book and avoid all the nonsense going on about her goes gradually awry. "Captured the spirit of our well-loved Regency romances far better than some lengthier works." "I recommend it to all who need a small diversion from life," (4-star review).
The Hangar Dance
Price: $0.99 USD. Words: 8,030. Language: English. Published: January 22, 2013 . Categories: Fiction » Romance » Historical » General, Fiction » Historical » United Kingdom
Sylvie is a girl who longs to be a woman. When she is invited to a dance at the local airfield, where a US squadron is based, she knows she has to go, even if it means lying to her parents. Upon meeting Jack, a young American airman, life becomes even more complicated. A short World War II romance, set in rural England. "Sweet story about love, innocence and loss," (Review, May 2013).
Danburgh Castle
Price: $0.99 USD. Words: 10,060. Language: English. Published: December 30, 2012 . Categories: Fiction » Romance » Historical » General, Fiction » Romance » Short stories
Lord Robert, Norman ruler of a region of England, spares the life of Emma, the widow of an Anglo-Saxon rebel. When his wife dies in childbirth he asks Emma to become nurse to his son at Danburgh Castle. But not everybody welcomes Emma's arrival at the stone keep. Lady Fiona, Lord Robert's fiancée, is suspicious of the nurse. A short, sensual Medieval romance. "A good quick read," Goodreads.
The Ramblers
Price: Free! Words: 2,790. Language: English. Published: July 9, 2012 . Categories: Fiction » Romance » General, Fiction » Women's fiction » Chick lit
(3.60 from 5 reviews)
Two friends, Sandy and Angela, join a rambling group in the hope of finding love. The girls are unused to walking and ill-equipped for their expedition. Early in the walk Angela hurts her ankle but she refuses to give up. Events that follow challenge both girls' first impressions of their fellow ramblers. "A really cute, well-written story, for ages 12 and up," (5-Star Review, Barnes & Noble).
Rhiannon
Price: $0.99 USD. Words: 8,160. Language: English. Published: April 24, 2012 . Categories: Fiction » Romance » Historical » General, Fiction » Romance » Gothic
(4.00 from 1 review)
Rhiannon, a Welsh farmer’s daughter, is smuggled into a walled English garrison town. Harboured by a merchant and his son, her happiness is shattered when her presence in their home is discovered. Taken to the castle, Rhiannon’s fate lies in the hands of Lord Edward. Will he believe Rhiannon’s claim that all she wants is to be a lady? "A bed-time story for grown-up girls," (4-stars, Goodreads).
The Beacon Singer
Price: $0.99 USD. Words: 119,740. Language: English. Published: December 5, 2011 . Categories: Fiction » Women's fiction » General, Fiction » Romance » General
(3.50 from 2 reviews)
Disillusioned jazz singer, Jane Lake, returns home to find herself at the centre of amorous intrigue. Embarking upon an emotional journey that brings chaos to her circle of friends, Jane teeters between personal jeopardy and a burgeoning self-knowledge that might just permit the prospect of love... "I loved this book ... Many LOL moments. A very satisfying read," (Review, March 2013).
Brizecombe Hall
Price: $0.99 USD. Words: 8,520. Language: English. Published: July 20, 2011 . Categories: Fiction » Romance » Historical » General, Fiction » Romance » Regency
(4.57 from 7 reviews)
‘A young woman must value, above all else, her virtue.’ Ann Rhys, daughter of a minister, is employed by Charles Brindley, the widowed Master of Brizecombe Hall, as governess to his two children. Her initial feelings of apprehension regarding her employer are rapidly surpassed by other emotions that are new to Ann. "I love when true love overcomes social standing," 5-star review.
Elizabeth Clansham
Price: $2.99 USD. Words: 57,350. Language: English. Published: June 20, 2011 . Categories: Fiction » Women's fiction » General, Fiction » Romance » Romantic Comedy
(3.80 from 5 reviews)
Elizabeth, reluctant teacher and aspiring author, retreats to a croft house in the Scottish Highlands to write a novel and avoid real life. Real love, however, proves harder to elude. Andrew maintains it’s the things you don’t do in life that you regret but is it ever too late for love to blossom? "A finely-crafted tale of social interactions, love and finding yourself," Review.

Catherine E. Chapman's tag cloud

1940s romance    ambitious characters    american airman    american hero    anglosaxon heroine    aristocratic hero    aristocratic heroine    aspirational characters    bronte sisters    bwwm romance    charlotte bronte    chick lit    christmas romance    christmas short story    christmas story    christmas womens fiction    coming of age    contemporary romance    dark comedy    darkly comic novella    doctor and nurse romance    doctor hero    downton abbey    elizabethan romance    family mystery    family saga    family secret    female friendship    fiction womens chick lit    first impressions    first world war romance    free book    free short read    friendship    gothic romance    governess romance    great war romance    heroine disguised as boy    heroine in disguise    heroine who is a jazz singer    heroines at sea    historical romance    historical romance anthology    hogmanay romance    holidays romance    interracial romance    irish hero    irish heroine    jane austen    jane eyre    lady chatterleys lover    ladyinwaiting heroine    land girl    lord hero    love in conflict    love in war    love triangle    lovehate relationship    maid heroine    medieval romance    mystery cozy    new years romance    noble hero    nobleman hero    norman lord hero    northanger abbey    novella    offbeat romance    office romance    persuasion    pride and prejudice    quick read    quirky romance    redemptive romance    rediscovery of an old flame    regency innocent herione    regency naval hero    regency romance    renaissance romance    rivalry between friends    rom com    romance 1100s    romance 1300s    romance 1500s    romance 1800s    romance 1900s    romance and adventure    romance contemporary    romance elizabethan    romance gothic    romance historical    romance in a castle    romance medieval    romance regency    romance regency short story historical    romance sensual    romance set in a castle    romance set in elizabethan england    romance set in english lake district    romance set in georgian bath    romance set in ireland    romance set in medieval britain    romance set in medieval wales    romance set in norman britain    romance set in scotland    romance set in swing era    romance short historical    romance short story    romance victorian    romance with family conflict    romance with lords and ladies    romance wwii    romance1800s    romantic comedy    scottish highland romance    scottish highlands    second chance    second chance romance    secretary heroine    short historical romance    short regency romance    short romance    short romance set in the countryside    short romantic comedy    short romantic story    short romantic story set at christmas    short story    short story for young adults    sibling rivalry    sisters    slavery    social comedy set in britain    teacher heroine    tragedy    victorian historical romance    victorian romance    victorian romance set in england    war horse    wartime romance    wealthy hero    womens fiction    worklife imbalance    world war one love story    ww ii romance    wwii romance   

Smashwords book reviews by Catherine E. Chapman

  • Try Me (Three Romantic Short Stories) on Sep. 21, 2012

    My attention was drawn to this book because I recognised its author's name. Della Galton is a celebrated writer of short fiction for UK women's magazines. If you like romance and are unused to this short fiction format, 'Try Me' is a great introduction to it. Della Galton's writing is pacey and direct, with lots of dialogue and characters who are appealing despite the limited opportunity for character development in a couple of thousand words. I enjoyed 'The Naked Truth' for the humour behind the scenario and the clever way the plot was handled. 'Saint or Sinner' was, I thought, quite profound for such a short and seemingly light story. Overall, this collection is well worth a read!
  • No Going Back on Nov. 10, 2012

    I was drawn to 'No Going Back' amongst David Blake's works because of the book's categorisations as historical fiction and erotica - it seemed an intriguing generic combination. The first thing to say about 'No Going Back' is that it is well-written. In particular, I like the fact that the first person narrator's voice seems authentic for the time in which the book is set. Furthermore, the great level of descriptive detail in Blake's writing serves to set the scene in post-WWII rural Wales very effectively. Reading 'No Going Back' it does feel rather like a book in two halves: the first part is a fairly gentle reminiscence, which would have universal appeal to adult readers; the second part is undoubtedly correctly classified as erotica and some readers may be uncomfortable with the juxtaposition of the two distinct elements of the story. I enjoyed reading 'No Going Back' for what it was but I felt the story had scope to be developed in ways that would blend the narrative and romantic content in ways that would make the overall work more meaningful. As it stands, 'No Going Back' is technically a novelette. If Blake wanted to develop it as a novel or novella, there seem to be many avenues to explore. Personally, I was intrigued by the character of David - surely the fact that he reads suggests that he isn't the insensitive oaf he seems to be? What does he recall of his childhood friendship with Rob? What did it mean to him? Overall, 'No Going Back' suggests that David Blake is a gifted writer with the potential to pursue many genres of fiction writing successfully.
  • Frank The Friendly Ogre on Oct. 13, 2014

    Ah, a short and very sweet story for kids. Reinforces the message that belonging is not, as we are led to believe, about location, location, location, but about people (well, ok, ogres and giants!). I think children would love it and would want to read / hear more.