Book excerpt: The warriors of Asgard Island are keeping a secret from their new brides… Kidnapped from a trade fair by a mysterious swordsman, Lady Avril de Varennes awakens on Asgard Island, an enchanted paradise cloaked in mists and mystery, kept secret from the world for centuries. Against her will, Avril weds her arrogant captor, Hauk Valbrand—even as she vows to escape. Hauk believes himself beyond the reach of love, until his fiery captive bride begins to melt his heart of ice. But soon he must reveal the stunning truth about Asgard and its people—and Hauk and Avril must choose between love and honor, duty and desire...now and forever. "Powerful. From the very first page you're whisked away to a world where anything is possible." -The Atlanta Journal-Constitution “An involving, beautiful story. I thought about the characters often at work, at the grocery store, in my car—wherever I was until I could get back to the book. A definite keeper. Five hearts (highest rating).” -TheRomanceReader.com "An utterly absorbing read! With its richly drawn characters, powerful conflict and vividly imagined setting, His Captive Bride is a romantic fantasy lover's dream. When it comes to sweeping, sizzling historical romance, Shelly Thacker is a shining star!" -Lara Adrian, New York Times bestselling author “If I could give this book more than 5 stars I would! I loved Asgard Island and Shelly’s descriptions made it feel so real, as if I’m there with them. Highly recommended. I loved all the books but this was by far my most favorite!” – Goodreads reviewer “I'm in awe of this author's talent. Thacker has made me want to read all her books. She is so skilled at telling a story with strong, well defined characters and original storylines. This one blew me away!” – Goodreads reviewer “Take me to Asgard Island, please! His Captive Bride is totally engrossing, passionate and SEXY! The chemistry between Avril and Hauk is electric. I highly recommend every one of the books in this series as perfect escape reads.” – Reading Between the Wines Originally published by Dell under the title Timeless. This revised and expanded Author's Preferred Edition includes new scenes never before published. The Stolen Brides Series These regal brides are about to discover that falling in love with a warrior is the most dangerous adventure of all. Each book is a stand-alone, steamy historical romance: Book 1: HIS STOLEN BRIDE (Darach and Laurien) Book 2: FOREVER HIS (Gaston and Celine) Book 3: HIS FORBIDDEN TOUCH (Royce and Princess Ciara) Book 4: HIS CAPTIVE BRIDE (Hauk and Avril) Book 5: HIS SCOTTISH BRIDE (Henri and Aileen)