In the dim and distant past – magic, sorcery, witchcraft and superstition vied with religion in an attempt to explain the mysteries of the age. Those privy to the workings of such matters kept their knowledge a closely guarded secret, for it could mean the difference between life and death. Places intended for the indulgence of such matters were selected for their relative isolation; quite often a fortress or a castle such as the one that still stands today overlooking a bleak moor. Always appearing a dark, brooding, forbidding place; forever, it seemed, cloaked in a grey mist. Built upon a small tor (hill) it had a commanding view of the grim vista below and beyond. It dominated the scene for miles, like a malign blot on the landscape and could be seen from at least three leagues away, if the weather ever cleared.

It was rumoured to have a curse upon it. People avoided it like a plague. Local villagers kept shy of it. Travellers gave it wide berth as they passed. No animals grazed or foraged nearby and no birds flew over it. Folklore has it that this sentinel was a place of evil, a fortress of malevolence best left alone to crumble to dust and take its black secrets with it.

No one had lived there for centuries. It was believed the spawn of dark powers did reside within its walls. Bad luck and worse befell anyone foolish enough to have dealings there. Plunderers of its stones came to grief. They who would chance ransacking its rooms either died or went mad. Although barren and deserted for ages, on moonless nights it was reported that strange lights had been seen emanating from within. No one in his right mind dared to investigate. The castle’s eerie fables were too awe filling, too frightening and too powerful to ignore.

One rain-soaked and Godless night, a luckless old beggar had taken shelter there from a storm. He was found the morning after rambling on the moors – mad delirious. He never regained his sanity and died in an asylum. To the end of his days, he ranted about the castle’s occupant; the spirit of its one time lord, an evil man who dabbled in sorcery and abominations.

For his past sins, the lord had been cursed to roam the castle for eternity until able to make atonement. Only then would the powers that condemned him release him from his earth-bound purgatory. Without human intervention, the spirit of the old lord was unable to atone for his sins in life - therefore his tormented soul still haunted the castle.

Bill Haworth's first attempt is a fine piece of fiction. Robert and Faye travel to the 'Castle On The Moor' to renovate it, only to find it already occupied. This is where the story gets interesting as we find out what happened. Can Robert and Faye help resolve what is wrong with the castle? Thank You Mr. Haworth for sending We Really Dig Romance Novels this book to review.

Ideas for a Romantic Vacation Getaway By Vince L. Paxton

Millions of families take summer vacations together each year. Travel with the entire family can be a wonderful experience, but there are times when you and your partner need some time alone. A romantic getaway may be just what you need and, fortunately, there are several options to choose from.

The first thing to consider when selecting a romantic summer getaway is what romance means to you. Some feel as if certain activities or settings ruin “the mood.” For this reason, think about what it is you need and what you want to get out of the vacation.

If a beautiful tropical climate is what you are looking for, you might want to examine Barbados more closely. Barbados is an eastern Caribbean island in the Atlantic Ocean and is well-known for its fantastic coastal vacations which are ideal for romantic getaways. Barbados also offers an array of unique shops, entertainment venues and restaurants.

Tahiti is also another possibility. Located in the Pacific Ocean, it is referred to as the “most beautiful island in the world.” This amazing island offers romantic summer vacations unlike any other. With so many romantic resorts from which to choose, restaurants and activities for couples, you will surely have the romantic getaway you need in Tahiti.

The Pocono Mountains in Pennsylvania is another popular getaway for couples. Pocono resorts are known for their wintertime activities, but the resorts are open all year. During the off-season, the temperature may not be tropical, but they do offer privacy and a great place to escape to when you need to get away from the daily routines and activities.

Similar to the Pocono resorts, Paris France is not a tropical location but it is considered one of the most romantic places in the world. You will notice the romance as soon as you arrive in the city. In addition to the romantic hotels, you will find many amazing attractions. Many couples reaffirm their love and reconnect at The Eiffel Tower, one of the most popular attractions in the area if not the most popular.

Another option is to go on a romantic cruise. Several popular cruise lines offer ships specifically for couples, and the length of the getaway can vary anywhere from three to ten days, sometimes longer. On board, you are likely to find many relaxing, romantic and exciting activities you and your partner can enjoy.

Additionally, cruise ships often dock at several ports and a ship with a romantic theme is more likely to stop at ports with romantic settings. Though it varies by cruise ship, you are often permitted several hours or an entire day to explore the port area. Many couples find this exploration to feel like a separate holiday experience.

Keep in mind that the destination ideas above are only a few of the popular choices for couples. If these are not within your reach as far as budget or travel proximity, do not worry. There are thousands of other destinations like the picturesque Alicante in Spain where you can choose to go.

The collaborator Vince Paxton is interested in news associated with Alicante. You can find his articles on pictures of alicante spain and Alicante at http://www.alicante-spain.com

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