While doing research, I often uncover true stories that make their way into my books in an altered version. Stories of duels can be particularly fascinating. My latest books features a duel between two men that is based on a true story.
One man accused the other man of cheating at poker. When neither man backed down, they decided on a duel. They agreed that two guns would be placed on a table beneath a blanket, only one of which was loaded. The combatants would toss a coin into the air and the winner of the toss would select a gun and fire immediately.
The man who won the toss picked his gun and fired, but his gun was unloaded. Prepared to die, the first man crossed his arms over his chest and waited for the bullet. The second man took aim, then slowly pointed his gun at the ceiling and fired. The gunman had decided that no man who showed such bravery could have cheated.
The two men became fast friends after the aborted duel.
This was a much better choice than the two men who decided to cut off each others fingers until someone showed pain. The first man to show pain would be killed. Yuck! True, but odd. I know women do crazy things, but I feel like men have cornered the market.
I'm excited to preview my February book with you as well: The Engagement Bargain
Rock-solid and reliable, confirmed bachelor Caleb McCoy thought nothing could rattle him, until he discovers he needs to pose as Anna Bishop's intended groom. After saving her life, his honorable code bid Caleb watch over the innocent beauty. And a pretend engagement is the only way to protect her from further harm.
Raised by a single mother and suffragist, Anna doesn't think much of marriage, and she certainly doesn't plan to try it herself. But playing Caleb's blushing bride-to-be makes her rethink her independent ways, because their make-believe romance is becoming far too real.
Sherri Shackelford is an award-winning author of inspirational, Christian romance novels for her dream publisher, Harlequin.
A wife and mother of three, Sherri’s hobbies include collecting mismatched socks, discovering new ways to avoid cleaning, and standing in the middle of the room while thinking, “Why did I just come in here?” A reformed pessimist and recent hopeful romantic, Sherri has a passion for writing. Her books are fun and fast-paced, with plenty of heart and soul. Visit her at sherrishackelford.com, connect with her on facebook and twitter, or email her at sherrishackelford @ gmail.com
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Mismatched socks huh? My son's socks all match, but they are all different sizes. I think he has white socks from kindergarten, second, and now fourth grade in his drawer, even though I cull every once in awhile.
ReplyDeleteOr maybe when I mean to cull, I merely go to his room and think: Why did I come in here.
Cool beans leaving me wondering why she needs protecting.
There's always a leftover sock....
ReplyDeleteLove that the duel situation you used as inspiration turned out so positively. I imagine most did not.
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