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Moonlight and Magic
Heartstrings
Advertising for a man to father the baby she intends to bear for her childless sister, Theodosia Worth hires Roman Montana to be her bodyguard against the onslaught of applicants and finds that he is more concerned with saving her from herself. Original.
464 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published August 1, 1994
22 people are currently reading
135 people want to read
About the author
Rebecca Paisley
21 books62 followersI wanted to write things ever since I learned to write my name. I started with letters to my grandmother like: “Der Grammey, I went on the ralerode trax today and finded a big pees of gum by the raleing. I piked it up and ate it. It was bananna. I chwed it till it did not have inymor flaver in it. Aftr I swaloed it I kind of thot I had sum majic in me frum the persen who first ate it. Mama sayed wat I did was veree nasty but I beeleeve in that majic.”
To this day, I remember that gum and the way it made me feel. I continued to write about things that happened to me. Sometimes they were pure non-fiction. But other times they were invented, like when I wrote a one page story about my father being Superman. He was an Air Force Fighter Pilot and often had to leave on secret missions he was forbidden to tell us about. He told us his Superman costume was hidden in the flight bag he always took with him when he left. So I wrote a page about how he didn't need his jet on that mission. No, he flew in the plain air and directed the other pilots where to go. Because of his instructions, all the enemies scattered and were never seen again.
And then I grew up and became a woman, but not before I wrote hundreds of stories. When I was about 28 or so, I wrote a very long historical romance…with my 2 year old son hanging on my leg the whole time. I sent that manuscript to every publishing house in NYC, and the editors rejected it every single time. You want to know why? Because I was writing what I thought the publishing houses wanted to buy. I was copying other authors’ styles. I didn't know any better.
After 17 rejections, I decided to write the book I wanted to read. Not a book for an editor or even readers. Freedom, at last! Freedom to invent characters that made sense to me. Characters whose thoughts mirrored mine, whose ways of doing things were my ways of doing things.
Whose hearts were offspring of mine.
I never thought to submit that manuscript to anyone. It was going to be mine, all mine, and no one else’s business because the heroine was so wild, so outrageous and different. She was not a romance heroine, Chickadee McBride. She defied every romantic heroine in the publishing rules.
But I did end up sending her and story in, and Avon Books bought her. The editor told me Chickadee McBride was a gamble, but Avon was willing to try her out. That book was THE BAREFOOT BRIDE.
After that sale, I never again wrote what other authors wrote. I stayed true to what I loved, what made me cry and laugh and be surprised. I never knew what my characters were going to do or why. I just wrote.
And eventually I became a Publisher’s Weekly Bestselling Author, which gained me a place on Romance Writers of America’s Honor Roll and the accomplishment of becoming a RITA finalist. I won Romantic Times’ Lifetime Achievement Award and Career Achievement Award as well as a Reviewers’ Choice Award for Historical Romance Fantasy and a Best Love and Laughter Award.
None of these things would have happened for me had I not decided to write a book that appealed to my quickness to laugh, my love for the outrageous, my deep sensitivity. . .
. . . or the belief that if I can dream it up, it can happen.
To this day, I remember that gum and the way it made me feel. I continued to write about things that happened to me. Sometimes they were pure non-fiction. But other times they were invented, like when I wrote a one page story about my father being Superman. He was an Air Force Fighter Pilot and often had to leave on secret missions he was forbidden to tell us about. He told us his Superman costume was hidden in the flight bag he always took with him when he left. So I wrote a page about how he didn't need his jet on that mission. No, he flew in the plain air and directed the other pilots where to go. Because of his instructions, all the enemies scattered and were never seen again.
And then I grew up and became a woman, but not before I wrote hundreds of stories. When I was about 28 or so, I wrote a very long historical romance…with my 2 year old son hanging on my leg the whole time. I sent that manuscript to every publishing house in NYC, and the editors rejected it every single time. You want to know why? Because I was writing what I thought the publishing houses wanted to buy. I was copying other authors’ styles. I didn't know any better.
After 17 rejections, I decided to write the book I wanted to read. Not a book for an editor or even readers. Freedom, at last! Freedom to invent characters that made sense to me. Characters whose thoughts mirrored mine, whose ways of doing things were my ways of doing things.
Whose hearts were offspring of mine.
I never thought to submit that manuscript to anyone. It was going to be mine, all mine, and no one else’s business because the heroine was so wild, so outrageous and different. She was not a romance heroine, Chickadee McBride. She defied every romantic heroine in the publishing rules.
But I did end up sending her and story in, and Avon Books bought her. The editor told me Chickadee McBride was a gamble, but Avon was willing to try her out. That book was THE BAREFOOT BRIDE.
After that sale, I never again wrote what other authors wrote. I stayed true to what I loved, what made me cry and laugh and be surprised. I never knew what my characters were going to do or why. I just wrote.
And eventually I became a Publisher’s Weekly Bestselling Author, which gained me a place on Romance Writers of America’s Honor Roll and the accomplishment of becoming a RITA finalist. I won Romantic Times’ Lifetime Achievement Award and Career Achievement Award as well as a Reviewers’ Choice Award for Historical Romance Fantasy and a Best Love and Laughter Award.
None of these things would have happened for me had I not decided to write a book that appealed to my quickness to laugh, my love for the outrageous, my deep sensitivity. . .
. . . or the belief that if I can dream it up, it can happen.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
May 5, 2024
Un libro muy divertido y a la vez muy dulce y tierno. Por momentos me he reído a carcajadas cosa rara en mi leyendo un libro.
Román Montana el protagonista me ha encantado es divertido, carismático y dulce y tierno me ha enamorado.
La protagonista theodosia es muy inteligente sabelotodo pero a la vez muy ingenua.
Y Juan Bautista el loro es desternillante.
Me ha parecido un libro sencillo, pero a la vez buenísimo. Con una trama sencilla y con mucho humor logra llegarte al corazón.
Para mi sin ser un gran libro con una gran trama ha conseguido divertirme y emocionarme y solo por eso ya se merece las 5 estrellas.
Es una lastima que de esta autora solo hayan traducido dos libros. Porque me parece buenísima. La recomiendo muchísimo.
Román Montana el protagonista me ha encantado es divertido, carismático y dulce y tierno me ha enamorado.
La protagonista theodosia es muy inteligente sabelotodo pero a la vez muy ingenua.
Y Juan Bautista el loro es desternillante.
Me ha parecido un libro sencillo, pero a la vez buenísimo. Con una trama sencilla y con mucho humor logra llegarte al corazón.
Para mi sin ser un gran libro con una gran trama ha conseguido divertirme y emocionarme y solo por eso ya se merece las 5 estrellas.
Es una lastima que de esta autora solo hayan traducido dos libros. Porque me parece buenísima. La recomiendo muchísimo.
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December 12, 2015I thoroughly enjoyed reading this. Ms. Paisley created two characters who were complete opposites, and she did so masterfully. Roman Montana lives up to the image his name creates, and Theodosia is delightfully cerebral. Read it. You'll probably enjoy it!
May 6, 2024
I bought a bunch of paperback 80s and 90s romance novels yesterday please don’t judge 😂😂 but I actually loved this book. A little bit cheesy but original and made me laugh out loud
March 16, 2015
Setting: Post civil war Texas
Genre: Western romance
I gave this 3 stars because the premise, though not new, has a cute slant. More importantly, the writing shows that Ms Paisley paid attention in her grammar, literature, and writing classes. Or maybe she's in one of those writing groups that can benefit any author. The usage and rhythm in this novel are good, and she doesn't talk down to her audience, as if we're in grade school, nor does this come across like a doctoral thesis. There is also some funny situations and dialog.
The premise, in a nutshell is Theodosia is a Boston genius who gets hooked up with Roman, a drop-dead gorgeous do-anything-for-money man, when he is hired to take her to a job interview. To flesh that out a little-- Dr. Wallaby is (I think) an entomologist, who had been studying in Brazil when his funds ran out. He is waiting in Texas for some backers so he can continue his research. While there, he has agreed to consider T. for an assistant position. He sent Roman to escort her the 3 days ride from the train station to Templeton, TX. A back plot is regarding her sister. Lillian has miscarried her 4th pregnancy. She refuses to adopt. T. feels like it is her fault that Lillian can't carry to term because she and her husband put off having a child until T. was grown. Let's see... T. was orphaned at the age of 5 and went to live with L. There's a 16 year difference in the sister's age (making the elder 21at that time) and she's going to put off a family of her own until baby sister can leave the nest? Oh come on! I understand L.'s wanting to put off having a baby just yet, but 15 or 20 years? Just wait 5 years and you've got a built-in poor relative to assist with childcare. Hey, she's a genius! She can tutor the kids too. Puh-leez. L. is going to put off her first pregnancy until she's somewhere between 31 & 36? In 1880's Boston? But there's more! Without talking to her sister and brother-in-law, Upton, about it, she has decided to surrogate a baby for them with Dr. Wallaby (who apparently resembles Upton). Yeah, that takes us to...
My most hated plot device - stupid. One of the protagonists is a space case, a little - ummm - let's say eccentric, or outright too stupid to live. And let's face it ladies, it's usually a woman. She has to do something to imperil herself, and our hero has to save her from her stupidity. Well, Theodosia is a genius, but the author has to show that Roman is the true alpha of the couple. It really pisses me off when stupid is used to move the story forward. Then there's miscommunication.... Arrrrgh!
I am not saying not to read this book. It really is well-written, and if you think I'm a little whacked for noticing these things, it will be worth your while. Or maybe you'd find one of her more recent books enjoyable, as she has had 20 years to work the stupid heroine out of her system.
Genre: Western romance
I gave this 3 stars because the premise, though not new, has a cute slant. More importantly, the writing shows that Ms Paisley paid attention in her grammar, literature, and writing classes. Or maybe she's in one of those writing groups that can benefit any author. The usage and rhythm in this novel are good, and she doesn't talk down to her audience, as if we're in grade school, nor does this come across like a doctoral thesis. There is also some funny situations and dialog.
The premise, in a nutshell is Theodosia is a Boston genius who gets hooked up with Roman, a drop-dead gorgeous do-anything-for-money man, when he is hired to take her to a job interview. To flesh that out a little-- Dr. Wallaby is (I think) an entomologist, who had been studying in Brazil when his funds ran out. He is waiting in Texas for some backers so he can continue his research. While there, he has agreed to consider T. for an assistant position. He sent Roman to escort her the 3 days ride from the train station to Templeton, TX. A back plot is regarding her sister. Lillian has miscarried her 4th pregnancy. She refuses to adopt. T. feels like it is her fault that Lillian can't carry to term because she and her husband put off having a child until T. was grown. Let's see... T. was orphaned at the age of 5 and went to live with L. There's a 16 year difference in the sister's age (making the elder 21at that time) and she's going to put off a family of her own until baby sister can leave the nest? Oh come on! I understand L.'s wanting to put off having a baby just yet, but 15 or 20 years? Just wait 5 years and you've got a built-in poor relative to assist with childcare. Hey, she's a genius! She can tutor the kids too. Puh-leez. L. is going to put off her first pregnancy until she's somewhere between 31 & 36? In 1880's Boston? But there's more! Without talking to her sister and brother-in-law, Upton, about it, she has decided to surrogate a baby for them with Dr. Wallaby (who apparently resembles Upton). Yeah, that takes us to...
My most hated plot device - stupid. One of the protagonists is a space case, a little - ummm - let's say eccentric, or outright too stupid to live. And let's face it ladies, it's usually a woman. She has to do something to imperil herself, and our hero has to save her from her stupidity. Well, Theodosia is a genius, but the author has to show that Roman is the true alpha of the couple. It really pisses me off when stupid is used to move the story forward. Then there's miscommunication.... Arrrrgh!
I am not saying not to read this book. It really is well-written, and if you think I'm a little whacked for noticing these things, it will be worth your while. Or maybe you'd find one of her more recent books enjoyable, as she has had 20 years to work the stupid heroine out of her system.
February 23, 2021
Oh My Gosh! What an Awesome romance story. Not your typical Western but Rebecca Paisley's own charmingly unique writing style were she weaves hilarious situations, a very funny parrot and realizing what is truly important in life. Heartstrings has characters that are well thought out and you find yourself drawn into their story, clever, witty and funny banter, a story that is well-written, with a good plott, drama and intrigue. With setting descriptions and action sequences that are wonderfully vivid which brings this read together perfectly.
May 20, 2021
Fantastic author
A superb story told with humour, with and charm. The two main characters played each other off delightfully and kept the story interesting and humerous. Well written, by Rebecca Paisley and I do hope there are more books by her to read.
A superb story told with humour, with and charm. The two main characters played each other off delightfully and kept the story interesting and humerous. Well written, by Rebecca Paisley and I do hope there are more books by her to read.
November 27, 2020
Interesting read. Some what different to your normal westerns. The heroine is a genius who has studied literally all her life and now her ambition is to go to Brazil. Her dreams change somewhat when she decides to get pregnant so she can give the baby to her childless sister. The hero is her guide and along with her pet parrot make for an interesting trip. The parrot repeats everything that is said so you can image a female genius (who knows nothing about the basics of life) and a sort of illiterate male guide trying to have a conversation and what the end results are when the parrot interferes. She places ads for a male stud to impregnate her while he ends up being her bodyguard. He gets jealous and the parrot adds his piece into the conversations. Fun sort of read. HEA ending.
February 16, 2018
4.5 stars oldie but goodie
July 8, 2020
Argumento descabellado y protagonista excéntrica.
Para forzar las notas de humor, la autora inventa situaciones poco creíbles.
No dejo a mitad.
Para forzar las notas de humor, la autora inventa situaciones poco creíbles.
No dejo a mitad.
January 11, 2024
Typically. As a person who is socially and intellectually curious, it infuriates me to comprehend a person (in this case the female character in this story) who does not understand how society works. I understand she was bookish and raised in New England but I find it hard to believe she didn’t have some social cues.
The opposites attract trope was something new. I very much liked how it delved into both characters’ and their back stories. However some intense conflict was resolved far too soon and “too easy” for my tastes.
I did however enjoy the love story
The opposites attract trope was something new. I very much liked how it delved into both characters’ and their back stories. However some intense conflict was resolved far too soon and “too easy” for my tastes.
I did however enjoy the love story
May 9, 2015
I read the blurb for this book and thought I just have to read this. It sounded possibly like a hoot. Oh was is ever! I couldn't help but laugh at the antics of Theodosia Worth and Roman Montana.
Theodosia is a very smart, educated woman, who knows a lot of things (except for the everyday things to keep herself out of trouble). She says what she thinks without knowing the consequences. She comes to Texas for one purpose. Then, on here her way, she decides to find the man to father a child she badly wishes to give her sister.
Roman may not be as book smart as Theodosia, but he has lots he can teach her. He is paid to escort her to her destination. The moment they meet, she drives him crazy. He thinks he can finally wash his hands of her till he gets wind of her plans and decides she needs saving from herself.
From the time these two meet sparks fly. Roman can't understand half of what she says, with the big words she uses for simple things. Theodosia doesn't know why he gets so upset with her. As they learn from each other, things get steamy!
".....In this mind of yours are a thousand things. Lessons you haven't forgotten. It's time you learned another......"
Theodosia is a very smart, educated woman, who knows a lot of things (except for the everyday things to keep herself out of trouble). She says what she thinks without knowing the consequences. She comes to Texas for one purpose. Then, on here her way, she decides to find the man to father a child she badly wishes to give her sister.
Roman may not be as book smart as Theodosia, but he has lots he can teach her. He is paid to escort her to her destination. The moment they meet, she drives him crazy. He thinks he can finally wash his hands of her till he gets wind of her plans and decides she needs saving from herself.
From the time these two meet sparks fly. Roman can't understand half of what she says, with the big words she uses for simple things. Theodosia doesn't know why he gets so upset with her. As they learn from each other, things get steamy!
".....In this mind of yours are a thousand things. Lessons you haven't forgotten. It's time you learned another......"
August 7, 2010
Fun historical romance of Boston genius Theodosia who goes to Texas to find man to sire a baby and hires astute rancher wannabe Ramon as a bodyguard. Her extensive vocabulary and talking parrot add humor to the story. My rating is only 3.5* because middle got repetitive ... about 100 pages with any set of bad guys could have been cut out.
June 22, 2012
I kept my expectations low, turned off my brain and thoroughly enjoyed this goofy, fluffy romance. It's fun to have a brainy/geeky female lead although I do wish sometimes they weren't quite so completely incompetent in every other way. But the love story was sweet. Reminded me of an Amanda Quick story.
January 5, 2022
The story had me laughing at so many instances. Roman (the bodyguard) and Theodosia are at logger heads because she invariably brings trouble to herself. Not forgetting her pet parrot, who repeats sentences at the wrong times! Roman couldn't resist needling Theodosia. Wonderful book. Well written.
August 5, 2011
More humorous than romantic, but perhaps that's why I like it so.
March 23, 2015
I enjoyed this book so much. I love books that have some humor in it and this one was full of it. I laughed out loud at many points and the romance was wonderful.
April 12, 2015
Cute and sweet and rather funny, at first. Think maybe this author is just not for me.
April 18, 2015
A cowboy, a bookworm and a parrot. Hilarity ensues... I laughed myself to tears several times while reading this book.
June 7, 2015
Definitely different characters, but damaged as children and worked through this damage together- all with an old west twist.
July 13, 2015
I enjoyed this book. how she had planned on going to Brazil. How she planned on having a child to her sister and brother in law. When Roman taught her how to have fun.
November 22, 2008
VERY funny book!
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews