Joyce DiPastena dreamed of green medieval forests while growing up in the dusty copper mining town of Kearny, Arizona. She filled her medieval hunger by reading the books of Thomas B. Costain (where she fell in love with King Henry II of England), and later by attending the University of Arizona where she graduated with a degree in history, specializing in the Middle Ages. The university was also where she completed her first full-length novel…set, of course, in medieval England. Later, her fascination with Henry II led her to expand her research horizons to the far reaches of his “Angevin Empire” in France, which became the setting of her first published novel, "Loyalty’s Web" (a 2007 Whitney Award Finalist).
When she’s not writing, Joyce loves to read, play the piano, and spend time with her sister and friends. A highlight of her year is attending the annual Arizona Renaissance Festival .
Joyce is a multi-published, multi-award winning author who specializes in sweet medieval romances heavily spiced with mystery and adventure. She lives with her two cats, Nyxie and Calypso, in Mesa, Arizona.
Lucianna thinks herself too old to love again until Sir Balduin persuades her otherwise. But Lucianna’s brother appears without warning, threatening to revive a secret that will destroy Lucianna’s second chance at love.
Heléne de Laurant has not forgotten how the Earl of Gunthar destroyed her father’s castle during the king’s war with his sons. When someone tries to murder Gunthar and suspicion falls on her family and friends, she races against time, and dark secrets of the past, to unmask the would-be killer. But can she reveal the truth before it claims the life of the man she has unexpectedly learned to love?
Medieval author Joyce DiPastena is always on the lookout for authentic medieval names for her characters. This book is a compilation of her 30-plus years of research into medieval Christian names. Here you will find over 800 female names and over 1500 male names. This book will prove a treasure trove for historical fiction writers, fantasy writers, gamers, or anyone who just enjoys names!
When Burthred comes courting on Christmas Eve, Meg makes him swear on her box of holy relics that he will not pursue her. But her reliquary box holds a secret, one that will either join their hearts together or tear them apart. "Her stories will transport you through time." ~ Aimee Brown, "Getting Your Read On"
Constant Hearts, Inspired by Jane Austen's Persuasion
on June 13, 2011
Donna Hatch has done it again! "Constant Hearts" is a beautifully written Regency romance novelette. Donna is a master of clean romances that are nevertheless filled with heart-pulling emotion and passion. A wonderful read!