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In The Last Fatal Hour , a budding socialite haunted by war steps into the Brooklyn Heights world of whispers, seances, and murder. Perfect for readers who crave atmosphere, intrigue, and a touch of the supernatural. At a Glance — The Last Fatal Hour Genre:  Historical Fiction / Historical Mystery Setting / Period:  Post–Civil War era, Brooklyn Heights, New York Tone & Themes:  Atmospheric, suspenseful, and haunting; explores grief, reputation, justice, and the lingering scars of war Great for Readers Who Enjoy:  Historical whodunits, séances and supernatural intrigue, strong female protagonists, and layered social dramas set in 19th-century America About The Last Final Hour by Jan Matthews A budding socialite haunted by war steps into the Brooklyn Heights world of whispers, seances, and murder. For Leona Gladney, former woman soldier of the Union Army, life goes on despite the echoes of the battlefield in her heart. Now a suffragist and budding socialite in Brooklyn Heights, she yearns for a literary life and family. But her husband’s business partner embezzles their money and disappears. The society matrons of Brooklyn Heights turn a gimlet eye on Leona after the suspicious death of a wealthy friend. Leona will do anything to find justice for her friend and clear her own name, but she finds only secrets, seances, and murder. Buy the Book Amazon  | Barnes & Noble | Apple | Kobo  | More retailers Meet the Author Jan Matthews Jan Matthews is an American expat living in the sunshine in Portugal. She is (finally) retired from HIM and writes historical mysteries from the Middle Ages to World War I. When not writing or drinking coffee and wine in nearby cafes, she knits and crochets for charity and reviews books on her blog. coffeeandinkbooks.wordpress.com Twitter/X | Facebook | Instagram | BlueSky BookBub | Amazon Author | Goodreads Book Information/Metadata Book Title: The Last Fatal Hour Author Name: Jan Matthews Publication Date: April 7, 2026 Publisher: Coffee and Ink Press Pages:310 Genre: Historical Fiction, Historical Mystery This online book tour is hosted by The Coffee Pot Book Club .   Thank you for visiting Books & Benches. If The Last Fatal Hour  captures your interest, consider adding it to your reading list — and check out more historical mystery books in our archives.

In Witness in the Shadows , danger, secrets, and unexpected alliances collide. When a former FBI agent investigating a brutal murder teams up with a man willing to do whatever it takes to keep her safe, the two must race against time to protect a young witness—while a relentless killer closes in. At-a-Glance Genre:   Romantic Suspense Themes:  Survival, redemption, justice, resilience Tone:  Tense, fast-paced, emotionally charged, and gritty Setting:  The rugged mountains and colorful mountains of North Carolina, with a brief time in the Colorado mountains Great for Readers Who:  Enjoy romantic suspense with high stakes, protective heroes, determined heroines, and serial killer investigations. Witness in the Shadows by Blaire Morgan In this gripping romantic suspense set in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, danger closes in and trust may be the only way to survive. A woman tormented by her past. For eight years, FBI Agent Alexa Kyndall relentlessly pursued justice, leaving no room for the guilty to escape. In Witness in the Shadows , her dedication draws her into a deadly hunt for a serial killer—and into the path of the most unexpected criminal of her career. A man willing to do whatever it takes to save her. When a child witnesses a brutal slaying, Alexa’s life becomes intertwined with Craig Pierson’s, a man with his own haunted past. They join forces, only to discover they must put everything on the line in a pulse-pounding struggle to protect and survive. A killer closing in. As the shadows deepen and danger tightens its grip, Alexa and Craig must risk everything to survive. Witness in the Shadows - Book Links Kindle | Paperback | BookBub Genre: Romantic Suspense Published by:  Blaire Morgan Books Publication Date:  March 16, 2026 Number of Pages:  256 Series:  Kyndall Family Suspense Series, Book 1 Meet the Author: Blaire Morgan Blaire Morgan is a pseudonymous American author blending danger, emotion, and high-stakes storytelling into gripping romantic suspense. She lives wherever the next adventure takes her—usually somewhere with a lot of trees, or a place that exists only in her imagination. ​ Find her online at www.blairemorgan.com . Catch Up With Blaire Morgan blairemorgan.com | Amazon Author Profile | BookBub Limited-Time Tour Giveaway This is a giveaway hosted by Partners in Crime Virtual Book Tours for Blaire Morgan. See the widget for entry terms and conditions. Void where prohibited. The giveaway is for one $20 Gift Card to either Amazon.com OR Bookshop.org . Enter the Limited-Time Giveaway If Witness in the Shadows  sparks your interest, e xplore more romantic suspense .

What starts as a wilderness diversion program quickly spirals into a deadly fight for survival in Diversion  by Cindy Goyette. When a Phoenix probation officer and her troubled teens become targets of a ruthless killer, courage, grit, and second chances collide in the wild. At-a-Glance Genre:   Mystery, Suspense Themes:  Survival, redemption, second chances, justice, resilience Tone:  Tense, fast-paced, emotionally charged, and gritty Setting:  The rugged Arizona wilderness, where wildfire, flash floods, and predators heighten the danger Great for Readers Who:  Love high-stakes survival stories, strong female leads, romantic tension, and suspense with heart Diversion by Cindy Goyette Phoenix probation officer Casey Carson could use a change of scenery to clear her head and make some major life decisions. When the opportunity arises to take on a side job wrangling juvenile delinquents on a wilderness adventure for a diversion program, she’s skeptical. But she wants to support her cousin, who was hired as a counselor. The extra cash in her pocket sweetens the deal. Unfortunately, one of Casey’s clients—an escaped murderer after one of her charges—threatens to upend her plans. Facing wildfire, flash floods and an angry mountain lion are nothing compared to the murderous intentions in store for one of the kids. On a crash course with the killer and with her faithful pup Felony by her side, Casey desperately tries to lead the group to safety. She doesn’t realize that her two love interests, ex-husband Betz, and hunky ex-neighbor, Marcus, are frantically looking for the group. Casey must utilize every negotiating skill she possesses to not fail, or she’ll lose all she holds dear. Diversion - Book Links Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop.org Goodreads | BookBub Genre: Mystery, Suspense Published by:  Level Best Books Publication Date:  February 24, 2026 Number of Pages:  320 Series:  A Probation Case Files Mystery, Book 3 Enjoy an Excerpt from Diversion Prologue The girl held her breath, hoping her pounding heart wouldn’t give her away. She’d squeezed herself under her parent’s four-poster bed, between totes of out-of-season clothes. It had been her favorite place to hide when she was little… but she was almost full grown now. A stupid choice. Wouldn’t it be the first place they looked? Fear wouldn’t let her chance a move. The roar in her head made it difficult to hear what was happening in the other room. Still, she listened. She knew one thing. Her parents were dead. She’d heard their pleas, their screams. Then gunshots. Silence after that. She fought back her tears. Swallowed hard. Held her breath. Now, the killer was rummaging through the house. Looking for something. Looking for her. Heavy footsteps sounded in the hall and then stopped at the bedroom doorway.  She clamped her hand over her mouth. Tears dripped down her cheeks, gathering at the cleft of her chin before landing soundlessly on the carpeted floor. Scuffed black boots walked across the room and came to a stop at the foot of the bed. So close, she could reach out and touch them. She squeezed her eyes shut, unable to face her fate as it unfolded. She was next. But a cell phone chimed, and the boots turned. The footsteps moved away and toward the door. She opened her eyes and risked a small breath. In her hand, she gripped the key her father had passed to her just before he’d told her to hide. Chapter One Six months later I stuffed crackers in my mouth and washed them down with a Diet Coke before leaving my desk and heading for the probation department’s training room. It was early morning, and I felt like I had a killer hangover. Strange, because I’d had nothing to drink in the last few days. I’d thought about calling in sick, but I’d never done that before, and I didn’t want to ruin my perfect record. Even if no one else was keeping track. Plus, this training was mandatory. I’d put it off until the last class offering, and I needed to get it done. Most of the seats in the cramped room were already taken. I didn’t have a record of being on time, so I didn’t sweat it. “Casey,” my coworker Claire called from across the room. “I saved you a seat.” I dropped into the chair next to her, took another drink, and placed my Big Gulp on the table. “I can’t take another day of this,” I said, under my breath. “Sorry to hear that,” the trainer said, reaching around me and placing a binder in my lap. “Just for that, you get to go first.” I cringed. “Sorry. Didn’t know you were standing there.” “Obviously not.” The trainer walked over to the dry-erase board, picked up a marker, and opened the cap with a flourish. I didn’t know her well, but she was on the fast track to becoming a supervisor. I also didn’t know she hated me until now. “So, Casey, give us your greatest weakness.” Right now, it was my stomach. The leftover burrito I’d eaten for dinner last night must have been spoiled, but that wasn’t what she meant. I hated this question. The goal was to name something that you could turn into a strength. Nothing came to mind. Hands shot up around the room. Apparently, not the case for those around me. “Impatient,” someone yelled. “Opinionated!” “Sarcastic!” “Workaholic!” The trainer couldn’t write fast enough. “Okay, that’s plenty,” I said. I loved my job but clearly had to work on my reputation. The list was moving into a second column when my work cell vibrated in my pocket. I pulled it out. Betz, my ex-husband. Well, he was more than that, but I’d pumped the brakes on reconciling while I figured some things out. Still, taking his call was a good excuse to escape the room and the assassination of my character my peers were treating like a game show. “Gotta take this’” I got to my feet and hurried from the room. “It’s a detective.” “Evasive,” someone added to the list before I silenced them by closing the door. I answered as I walked down the hall. “What’s up?”  “Sorry to interrupt your day,” Betz said. I could picture him rubbing the back of his neck. Didn’t matter what he was calling about, most times when we talked, he rubbed his neck, shook his head, and I’m pretty sure his blood pressure rose. And yet, he wanted us to get back together. If we reconciled, he’d probably stroke out at the young age of thirty-five from the stress I caused him. Still, he loved me. “No problem,” I said. “You’re saving me from a painful day of training. Please tell me you have something that can get me out of finishing the class.” “You supervise Martin Phillips?” “I do.” “He’s a suspect in a double murder that happened six months ago. Think it’s over drug money. We want to take him into custody, but we don’t want to spook him since he's armed and dangerous. Think you can trick him into showing himself?” My adrenaline kicked in, stomach problems vanishing. A double murder was nothing to sneeze at. And if it had happened months ago, before he was on probation, there was nothing I could have done to stop it. Now we had to get my client off the street. “I can text him. Tell him I need to do a field visit, and I need him to be home.” Typically, we didn’t warn our clients we were coming. But sometimes, if we had enough failed attempts, we’d set something up. Anyway, Phillips was fairly new on supervision. He didn’t know the drill. But he knew we had to do regular home visits, and he was due. He’d probably fall for it. “That should work,” Betz said. “Gear up, and I’ll meet you at the employee entrance in ten.” I disconnected the call and took the stairs two at a time to my cubicle. I loved playing with cops. Although I never wanted to be one. Too much blood and guts for me. Excerpt © Cindy Goyette Meet the Author Cindy Goyette Cindy Goyette is a former probation officer who had a front-row seat to the criminal justice system. She kept her sanity by finding humor in most situations. A mix of these things helped her create The Probation Case Files Mystery Series. Book one, OBEY ALL LAWS, won a Public Safety Writer’s Association award, and it has been a finalist for Lefty and Silver Falchion Awards. Book two: EARLY TERMINATION released in 2025. She also authors The Wiggle Butt Manor Mystery series. DIAMOND IN THE RUFF is book one. After spending over twenty years in Arizona, Cindy lives in Washington state with her husband and two Cocker Spaniels. Catch Up With Cindy Goyette ccgoyette.com | Amazon Author Profile Goodreads | BookBub | Instagram | Twitter/X | Facebook Limited-Time Tour Giveaway This is a giveaway hosted by Partners in Crime Virtual Book Tours for Cindy Goyette. See the widget for entry terms and conditions. Void where prohibited. The giveaway is for 2 $15 bookshop.org gift cards. Enter the giveaway If Diversion  sparks your interest, e xplore more romantic suspense .

A high-stakes mystery, a broken trust, and a love that refuses to stay buried— Last to Fall  delivers suspense to the last page. At-a-Glance Genre:  Christian Fiction, Romantic Suspense, Romance Series: Gossamer Falls, Book #3 Vibes:  High tension • Emotional second chance • Small-town danger Themes/Tropes: Second-chance romance · Forced proximity · Protector hero · Family secrets Perfect for readers who love: Faith-forward romantic suspense with heart-pounding stakes and emotional payoff Last to Fall by Lynn H. Blackburn GOSSAMER FALLS   She's caught in a deadly game. He's the only one who can help her win. Bronwyn Pierce has poured everything into The Haven, her family's exclusive mountain resort in Gossamer Falls. But when financial discrepancies surface and the numbers suggest something far darker than simple mismanagement, she's forced to call on the one person with the skills to help her: Mo Quinn, a former Army intelligence officer, her first love, and the last person she ever wanted to trust again. Mo has spent years avoiding the woman he once loved and the secrets that tore them apart. But when Bronwyn calls, he can't walk away--especially when it's clear someone wants her gone for good. As they dig deeper into the treacherous motives behind a blackmail scheme, their proximity reignites long-buried feelings neither of them are ready to face. And when the evidence points to an unexpected culprit, Mo faces an impossible choice: trust the proof in front of him or trust his heart. With danger closing in and no one else to turn to, Bronwyn must break years of silence with Mo to uncover who's trying to destroy The Haven. They'll have to risk everything--including their hearts--to expose the truth before it's too late. The finale to Blackburn's Gossamer Falls series is an exhilarating romantic suspense novel packed with tension. This gripping read will hook fans of the family rivalry, bodyguard, small town, second chance romance, and forced proximity tropes. Last to Fall - Book Links Amazon | Kindle | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop.org | ChristianBook Goodreads | BookBub | Baker Book House   Published by:  Revell   Publication Date:  March 3, 2026   Number of Pages:  368   ISBN:  9780800745387 (ISBN10: 0800745388) Enjoy an Excerpt from Last to Fall Read in PDF Meet the Author Lynn H. Blackburn is the award-winning author of Never Fall Again , as well as the Dive Team Investigations and Defend and Protect series. She loves writing swoon-worthy Southern suspense because her childhood fantasy was to become a spy, but her grown-up reality is that she's a huge chicken and would have been caught on her first mission. She prefers to live vicariously through her characters by putting them into terrifying situations while she sits at home in her pajamas. She lives in Simpsonville, South Carolina, with her true love, Brian, and their three children. Catch Up With Lynn Blackburn LynnHBlackburn.com | Subscribe to Lynn's Newsletter | Amazon Author Profile Goodreads | BookBub | Instagram | Twitter/X | Facebook | Pinterest Limited-Time Tour Giveaway This is a giveaway hosted by Partners in Crime Virtual Book Tours for Lynn H. Blackburn and Revell. See the giveaway page for entry terms and conditions. Void where prohibited.   The giveaway is for: a $25 Barnes and Noble gift card and a copy of the book (1 winner). US only. Enter the Giveaway If Last to Fall  sparks your interest, e xplore more clean reads  and romantic suspense .

In West of Santillane , Brook Allen brings to life Julia Hancock Clark, the wife of famed explorer William Clark. While history remembers Clark for charting the American frontier alongside Meriwether Lewis, this novel turns its gaze to the woman standing beside him—and the moral frontier she must navigate. At-A-Glance: West of Santillane Genre:  Historical Fiction Setting:  Early 19th-century America Themes:  Marriage, moral conviction, slavery, westward expansion, forgiveness, female agency Great for Readers Who Enjoy: Strong, conflicted heroines; Frontier-era American history; Stories that explore love tested by ideology; Behind-the-scenes glimpses of famous historical figures About the Book West of Santillane by Brook Allen Desperate to escape a mundane future as a Virginia planter’s wife, Julia Hancock seizes her chance for adventure when she wins the heart of American hero William Clark. Though her husband is the famed explorer, Julia embarks on her own thrilling and perilous journey of self-discovery.   With her gaze ever westward, Julia possesses a hunger for knowledge and a passion for helping others. She falls in love with Will’s strength and generous manner, but, like her parents, he is a slave owner, and Julia harbors strong opinions against slavery. Still, her love for Will wins out, though he remains unaware of her beliefs.   Julia finds St. Louis to be a rough town with few of the luxuries to which she is accustomed, harboring scandalous politicians and miscreants of all types. As her husband and his best friend, Meriwether Lewis, work to establish an American government and plan to publish their highly anticipated memoirs, Julia struggles to assume the roles of both wife and mother. She is also drawn into the plight of an Indian family desperate to return to their own lands and becomes an advocate for Will’s enslaved.   When political rivals cause trouble, Julia’s clandestine aid to the Indians and enslaved of St. Louis draws unwanted attention, placing her at odds with her husband. Danger cloaks itself in far too many ways, leading her to embrace the courage to save herself and others through a challenge of forgiveness that will either restore the love she shares with Will or end it forever. Buy the Book Kindle | Amazon | Barnes & Noble At the time of this posting, this title is available to read on Kindle Unlimited. Praise for  West of Santillane   '"West of Santillane" is not just an account of historical events but also a story of love, resilience, and self-discovery. Brook Allen successfully blends romantic, historical, and adventurous elements, offering readers a captivating and memorable reading experience. The book is a warm recommendation for those who appreciate well-documented historical fiction and engaging life narratives.' ~ The Historical Fiction Company   'Brook Allen’s novel  West of Santillane  is guaranteed to tug at your heartstrings, so have some tissues nearby. This book is so captivating that it begs to be adapted into a movie. Seeing these characters brought to life on the big screen would be amazing. This book will definitely be remembered as one of my favourite reads of the year.' ~ Ellie Yarde, 5* Editorial Review, The Coffee Pot Book Club   Enjoy an Excerpt from West of Santillane by Brook Allen Sheheke prodded the fire, and Lodge plopped down next to his mother, shaking a buffalo-bladder rattle and grinning playfully with his sparse teeth. Yellow Corn spoke some solemn-sounding words to Sheheke, and he nodded in obvious agreement, not taking his eyes off of me.   Clearing his throat, he said, “I learn much from these years on this journey to see the Great White Father, but my greatest lesson is that the season of my people is changing. It is a storm I cannot stop. None of the Hidatsa, Lakota, Arikara, or Omaha can stop it. This storm is a blizzard of white men that will change these lands forever.”   I glanced at Yellow Corn, dismayed to see her cheeks wet with tears.   “Jefferson, your Great White Father, spoke peace,” Sheheke continued, “but he also spoke power. My own eyes saw the white man’s cities, armies, and people who number like kernels of corn at harvest. Jefferson’s words invited peace— or  it will be war. Americans have more guns, more people, more warriors. I saw this. I know this to be true.”   My pulse pounded, for Sheheke saw what Will saw—what I saw now too. The west’s gateway had been flung open, and nothing would ever be the same. How long the process of transition and change would take, none of us knew, not Sheheke and certainly not me. Would it be peaceful or forceful, with lives lost? Would it come in my lifetime? In Will’s? Would there be enough room for white settlers and Indians to share?   Yellow Corn had risen and gone to a satchel, rummaging. She pulled out a long calumet—the traditional sacred pipe smoked by the Plains peoples, solemnly presenting it to her husband. Sheheke removed dried plant matter from a pouch at his waist, tamping it down into the clay pipestem. It made me smile, thinking of Papa or Meriwether doing the same thing.   He raised the pipe, a long eagle feather dangling from the stem and strings of buffalo-horn beads and a bushy coyote tail embellishing its length. In a high, mournful voice, he began crooning, chanting.   I bowed my head. There was no telling what his song was about, other than the sound of it was moving, reverent, timeless—a sort of blessing.   When it ended, I looked up, and Sheheke slowly brought the pipe back down. Yellow Corn brought over a braid of smoldering sweetgrass to light it. When I could smell its earthy scent at last, Sheheke placed it to his lips, inhaling deeply and pausing before releasing a lengthy exhale.   He spoke, “Lone Man—a great spirit—did not bring us the pipe. No, our people and those of other tribes say that a woman brought us the first pipe and taught us to use it. It was sacred and good. Since then, we share pipes with those we wish to trust and call our own.”   He extended the pipe to me with both hands, and tentatively I accepted, bringing it to my mouth. I inhaled a little—not much. I didn’t want to dishonor myself or Sheheke by coughing, thereby not meeting his expectations.   Acrid, bitter—a gag started at the base of my windpipe, but I held my breath and sat motionless until the sensation eased, blowing the smoke out in a swift puff. Forcing myself to swallow hard, I took several rapid breaths, preventing myself from hacking, swallowing several more times, my eyes watering.   I gave the pipe back. He took another draw, waiting again and then sighing the smoke back out with relaxed ease, handing it over to me again. This went on a while until finally, after eight or nine exchanges, Sheheke handed the calumet back to Yellow Corn. He stood, motioning me to rise too, and as I did our hands joined above the small fire that continually burned inside the lodge.   I wasn’t at all sure where this was leading.   “We have not traveled too far a distance together, but we have come many miles, we four,” Sheheke said, nodding at his family. “Today, you brought news making my heart glad. Today, you have become my daughter. From now on, I will call you Óti shí Mííhe—Kind Lodge Woman, for you have come bringing goodness through your gifts and your time. You have helped us make a home where we were not welcome.”   On the other side of the lodge, Yellow Corn began singing in the same high-pitched, wailing sort of vocalese with which they made music.   It was the most moving experience I’d ever had in my life.   While riding home, I cried off and on. I was so filled with wonder and pride. What would Mama and Papa think? Their youngest daughter from Santillane being adopted by Sheheke—Chief of the Mandans. Excerpt © Brook Allen Buy the Book Kindle  | Amazon  | Barnes & Noble At the time of this posting, this title is available to read on Kindle Unlimited. Affiliate links in use. Meet the Author Brook Allen Author Brook Allen has a passion for history. Her newest project, West of Santillane , spotlights history from a little closer to home in Botetourt County, Virginia. It’s the story of Julia Hancock, who married famed explorer, William Clark. Each character of this thrilling, adventurous period was researched throughout southwest Virginia and into Kentucky, Missouri, Montana, Idaho, and North Dakota. It launched in March of 2024.   Brook belongs to the Historical Novel Society and attends conferences as often as possible to study craft and meet fellow authors. In 2019, her novel Antonius: Son of Rome  won a silver medal in the international Reader’s Favorite Book Reviewers Book Awards, then won First Place in the prestigious Chaucer Division in the Chanticleer International Book Awards, 2020. West of Santillane  garnered international attention in Summer 2025 by becoming a Silver Medalist in the Independent Publishing Book Awards for best Mid-Atlantic Fiction. Also, it was a finalist for the Virginia Romance Writers Holt Medallion. Most recently, Brook appeared in Season 8 of Blueridge PBS’s WRITE AROUND THE CORNER. Though she graduated from Asbury University with a B.A. in Music Education, Brook has always loved writing. She completed a Masters program at Hollins University with an emphasis in Ancient Roman studies, which helped prepare her for authoring her award-winning Antonius Trilogy. Brook recently retired from public education and her personal interests include travel, cycling, hiking in the woods, reading, and spending downtime with her husband and big, black dog, Jak. She lives in the heart of southwest Virginia in the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains. www.brookallenauthor.com   BookBub | Goodreads | Amazon Twitter/X | Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Bluesky Book Information/Metadata Book Title: West of Santillane Author Name: Brook Allen Publication Date: March 2024 Publisher: Dawg House Pages: 373 Genre: Historical Fiction, Historical Romance Any Triggers: N/A This online book tour is hosted by The Coffee Pot Book Club . Thank you for visiting Books & Benches. If West of Santillane  captures your interest, consider adding it to your reading list — and sharing this post with a fellow reader who loves richly told stories from the past.

A spirited Highland lass. A rugged Montana mountain man. When Ainslee McConnell arrives at Hawk’s Peak, sparks fly, hearts are tested, and the wild Montana winds carry the promise of adventure—and love in Wild Montana Winds . Perfect for readers who love strong heroines, slow-burning romance, and sweeping Western settings. Wild Montana Winds At-a-Glance Tone: Romantic, adventurous, and heartfelt Setting: Montana mountains, fiction town of Briarwood, and fictional Hawk’s Peak ranch Genre: Historical Western romance Focus: Adventure, romance, self-discovery, and taming the heart Best for readers of:  Western romance, strong heroines, mountain adventures, and slow-building love stories About the Book Wild Montana Winds by MK McClintock What happens when a mountain man tries to tame the heart of a Highland lass? Ainslee McConnell turns down every eligible bachelor who asks for her hand, for she knows none can quiet her adventurous spirit. When she travels from Scotland to visit family and seek new experiences, she discovers a life more rewarding than she could have imagined. Raised in the wilds of the Montana mountains, Colton Dawson lives as rancher, mountain man, and tracker. He is content . . . until one day a spirited Scottish lass crosses his path on her way to Hawk’s Peak. When a moment in Colton’s past revisits him, he fights to keep safe those he loves most. Return to Briarwood and Hawk’s Peak to experience a timeless western romantic adventure that will sweep you away on the wild Montana winds. Get the Book Amazon ​| Bookshop.org | Large Print “I just finished a six-book series by MK McClintock, the Montana Gallaghers . It is honestly the best series I have ever read. Each person is developed into a star and given their own book, but all the other characters are given their own time and investment in that book. Wow! What a series. I guarantee you won't be able to stop reading. Well done MK!”— Pioneer Hearts Reader Genre: Historical Western Romance Publisher: Trappers Peak Publishing Type: Novel Series: Montana Gallaghers, book 6 Content Note: 3 Hearts In the author's words . . . Dearest Reader, ​ Whether you have been with us from the beginning or are meeting us for the first time, it brings me great joy to have you here, for you are now a part of the Gallagher family. I do not know what I had once imagined would happen to this delightful group of people when I first met them, but with each story came new ideas and characters with whom I was not ready to part. Wild Montana Winds experienced many changes over the course of its writing. I always knew the story would be about Colton Dawson: ranch hand, tracker, mountain man, and of course a member of the Hawk’s Peak family. However, the woman meant for him changed a few times in my mind. All the others in this series had met their perfect match, and I could not rest until Colton found his. Ainslee McConnell proved to be that match—and then some. I love them together and I love them as individuals, proving once again that Hawk’s Peak is one of my favorite places to spend time. This book has been written to stand on its own. You will meet previous characters and read mention of events from the first five Montana Gallagher books. They are here to enhance Colton and Ainslee’s story, for neither would have his or her own tale without those who came before. I hope you enjoy reading this romantic western adventure as much as I did writing it. Be well, be kind, and stay bookish! ~ MK McClintock Enjoy an Excerpt from Wild Montana Winds Somewhere Outside of Briarwood, Montana Territory August 5, 1884 Her hands slipped for the second time. She struggled to remove her gloves and remain on the wagon bench. A few more minutes and she would lose the battle with speed and gravity. She reached for the reins and prayed for a miracle. The driver was slung over the bench, lying between Ainslee and the brake. Not far ahead, she saw a turn in the well-traveled dirt road. Beyond the bend was a thick copse of pines. “I’m so sorry, Mr. Sykes.” Ainslee heaved with all her strength and rolled the body off the bench. The pair of geldings pranced at the sudden shift of weight. Ainslee fought to maintain her balance while keeping the reins in her grasp. She failed. One of the leather straps flew forward, snapping against the right horse's rump before flailing to the side of the speeding animal. She glanced up. The turn was no more than a few hundred yards, and the horses would cover the distance faster than she could regain control—a doubtful prospect. Her untamed riding over the hills in her beloved homeland did not prepare her for a runaway team of horses and a wagon more suited to the firebox. With one strap in hand and a silent prayer, Ainslee pulled, much to the annoyance of the animals. They tugged and she pulled again. "Please! Dinna dae this to me now, laddies!" Excerpt Copyright © MK McClintock. "I have loved all of the books by MK McClintock through the years, but although we waited patiently for this book, it was so worth it. I have fallen in love with all of the Gallagher family, their experiences, hardships and enjoyed the love they share with each other. Her readers had hoped she would find love and a lifelong companion for Colton, and in Ainslee ... we did. If you love adventure, romance, thrillers, mysteries, you will find all of these in a MK McClintock book." - M.L. Sullivan Get the Book Amazon  ​| Bookshop.org  | Large Print Meet the Author MK McClintock is an award-winning author of historical romantic fiction about chivalrous men and strong women who appreciate chivalry. Her stories of romance, mystery, and adventure sweep across the American West to the Victorian British Isles with places and times between and beyond. She also writes contemporary when she's in the mood. MK enjoys a quiet life in the northern Rocky Mountains. You can find her online at www.mkmcclintock.com .​ ••• Her works include the Montana Gallagher, Crooked Creek, British Agent, and Whitcomb Springs series. She has also written A Home for Christmas, a heartwarming collection set in 1800s Montana, Wyoming, and Colorado, and The Case of the Copper King, a romantic and adventurous western mystery set in 1899 Colorado. She is always writing her next book. Thank you for reading and visiting Books & Benches. If Wild Montana Winds interests you, consider sharing it with a friend who enjoys historical western romances. Explore more western romances  in our archives.

If you love contemporary romances with emotional depth and a strong sense of place, this one’s for you. Book Review of Whispers Under a Southern Sky Delightful and refreshing! Whispers Under a Southern Sky is a charming contemporary romance of forgiveness, trust, hope and second chances. I haven't read Joanne Rock's previous stories in her Heartache series, but I didn't have any trouble following her characters, Amy and Sam. Whispers Under a Southern Sky tells the story of Amy, who, after an absence of ten years, returns to her hometown of Heartache to support her sister, Heather, in a judicial case. Except going back there means she'll remember secrets from her past that she would rather forget, but she needs to move on. Enters back into her life, Sam, the town sheriff, who will probably upset her even more. Is the flame still burning between these two? Will she forgive him? Will she trust him again? Their relationship is complicated because they are complex characters. Can they get a second chance and start fresh, a new, solid relationship that could end on a happy note! I really enjoyed this sweet and romantic tale! It's well-written, with a tight plot that held my attention from the first page to the very end. Get the Book Amazon Book Information/Metadata Title: Whispers Under a Southern Sky Author: Joanne Rock Publisher: ‎Harlequin Series: Heartache, TN, Book Four Publish Date: September 1, 2016 Reviewed by: Nicole L. Content Rating: 4 1/2 Hearts Review Disclaimers / Notes The copy reviewed was provided by the publisher. This review reflects the opinion of the reviewer and does not necessarily represent the opinions of all other reviewers (past, present, future) who review for Books & Benches. Because we do not have a professional editor volunteer, this post was edited by the Books & Benches team with help from ProWritingAid, Grammarly, or Wix. The review and all opinions/thoughts within are the reader’s. Affiliate links are used in this post. If you click on an Amazon or Bookshop link and make a purchase, this site will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you — helping us maintain the site and share more books. About the Book Whispers Under a Southern Sky (Retailer Description) Her past…or her future?   It's taken Amy Finley ten years, but she's finally ready to return to her hometown of Heartache, Tennessee, and face the past. She just never expected that would include reuniting with her high school sweetheart and now town sheriff, Sam Reyes. Or that Sam's latest case would lead right back to the darkest chapter in her life.   The attraction between Amy and Sam is definitely still there, not to mention that she's sure she could quickly grow to love his cute baby son. But can he forgive her for keeping her secrets? Can she forgive herself? ​ Get the Book Amazon If Whispers Under a Southern Sky  sparks your interest, e xplore contemporary romance .

When the world feels too loud, this is the kind of book I reach for. Heartsong Cottage  by Emily March is like a gentle breeze in a tumultuous world—quiet, comforting, and restorative. Book Review of Heartsong Cottage Heartsong Cottage is like a gentle breeze in a tumultuous world. I picked this book up because it made me think of Christmas, though I didn't get a Christmas vibe while reading.  This is the first book I've read by Emily March, and it won't be the last! I really like her writing style, character development, and description of the settings. I felt as though I was there in the Colorado Rockies. I liked Shannon O'Toole all the way through. She's resilient, hard-working, and blends well with the other characters. I liked Daniel Garrett—a lot—up until one point in the story because of something he said. I find some actions easier to forgive than words. After that, I kind of liked him, but I lost all respect for him as a character, so that was a letdown, but I still enjoyed the romance. The secondary characters are absolutely delightful, and I imagine the entire series would be worth reading. The author did a great job creating the community and the surrounding area. A big bonus is that the book is clean while still offering a sweet, believable romance that culminates in a satisfying ending.  Get the Book Amazon  | Bookshop Book Information Series: Eternity Springs Genre: Contemporary Romance Release: Nov 3, 2015 Pages: 320pp Publisher: St. Martin's Reviewed by: MK Content Rating: 2 Heart s Review Disclaimers / Notes The copy reviewed was from the reviewer's personal library. This review reflects the opinion of the reviewer and does not necessarily represent the opinions of all other reviewers (past, present, future) who review for Books & Benches. Because we do not have a professional editor volunteer, this post was edited by the Books & Benches team with help from ProWritingAid, Grammarly, or Wix. The review and all opinions/thoughts within are the reader’s. Affiliate links are used in this post. If you click on an Amazon or Bookshop link and make a purchase, this site will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you — helping us maintain the site and share more books. About the Book Heartsong Cottage (Retailer Description   Daniel Garrett is no stranger to heartache or tragedy. Haunted by the loss of his wife and son, he left the police force to devote his life to finding missing children. But he still hasn’t found a way to mend the wounds of his past—until he attends a wedding in the small town of Eternity Springs…and meets a beautiful woman who opens his heart to the healing power of love. Shannon O'Toole isn't looking for romance. Ever since her fiancé's death, she's thrown herself into her work renovating houses. But she can't deny her attraction to the sexy stranger she meets at a wedding. Daniel makes her feel things she hasn't felt in years—and one night in his arms has her yearning for more. But can Shannon trust a detective with her darkest secret? Is Daniel ready to take a second chance at love? In Eternity Springs, anything—and everything—is possible. Get the Book Amazon  | Bookshop (Affiliate links in use) If Heartsong Cottage sparks your interest, explore more clean reads and contemporary romance .

Looking for a Regency romance that delivers on every level? Mrs. Drew Plays Her Hand  by Carla Kelly is charming, clever, and quietly wonderful. Book Review of Mrs. Drew Plays Her Hand Mrs. Drew played every hand exceptionally well, and so did author Carla Kelly. I lay in bed reading this book and actually caught myself smiling many times. I couldn't remember the last time I had so thoroughly enjoyed a book. Roxanna Drew is an absolutely delightful and endearing heroine. Her strength, resilience, and love for her daughters are beautiful. The relationship she has with her children is so wonderfully written , and each of them has a very distinctive personality, yet at the same time , you can clearly tell they are related. Our lovely Fletcher, or Lord Winn , as he's known for most of the book, is charming, straightforward , and fun! Yes, he is so much fun. Despite his moments of seriousness and stubbornness, he's wonderfully fun, and the relationship between him and Roxanna is not only sweet, but they truly enjoy each other. I laughed with them many times. The love is not instant between them, but rather a friendship that grows into an affectionate bond between two people who respect and care for one another. The love story is indeed lovely and develops at a very nearly perfect pace. It's also a wonderfully clean historical romance! The setting is just as it should be. The descriptions of the dower house and manor are clear, but not too detailed as to distract from the story. The trek to Scotland--excellent! You'll have to read it to know what I'm talking about. This is one of the best Regency romances I have ever read, and I don't say that lightly. My only disappointment is that it had to end. Mrs. Drew, Lord Winn, and Carla Kelly get five stars and then some.    Get the Book Amazon  | Bookshop  | CedarFort Book Information Genre: Historical Romance Release: Sept 11, 2012 Pages: 368pp Publisher Sweetwater Books Reviewed by: MK Content Rating: 1 Heart Reviewer's Top Pick Book Review Disclaimers / Notes The copy reviewed was provided by the publisher. This review reflects the opinion of the reviewer and does not necessarily represent the opinions of all other reviewers (past, present, future) who review for Books & Benches. Because we do not have a professional editor volunteer, this post was edited by the Books & Benches team with help from ProWritingAid, Grammarly, or Wix. The review and all opinions/thoughts within are the reader’s. Affiliate links are used in this post. If you click on an Amazon or Bookshop link and make a purchase, this site will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you — helping us maintain the site and share more books. About the Book Mrs. Drew Plays Her Hand (Retailer Description) After her husband's death, Roxanna Drew is left with more beauty than fortune. Now, desperate to escape the perils of her past life, she must learn to trust the dashing Lord Winn---a broken man with a past of his own. This award-winning romance by bestselling author Carla Kelly is a moving and memorable book you won't be able to put down. ​ Get the Book Amazon  | Bookshop  | CedarFort (Affiliate links in use) If Mrs. Drew Plays Your Hand sparks your interest, e xplore more clean reads .

Last to Fall  by Lynn H. Blackburn is a suspenseful, emotionally rich story that blends clean and wonderful romance, faith elements, and nonstop tension into a can’t-put-it-down read. Last To Fall  — At a Glance Genre:  Romantic Suspense Series:  Gossamer Falls, Book 3 Favorite Elements:  Slow-burn chemistry, strong family dynamics, steady suspense Themes:  Trust, family, faith, healing, courage under pressure Overall Take:  A gripping, emotional read and my favorite in the series Book Review of Never Fall Again by Lynn H. Blackburn Last to Fall  by Lynn H. Blackburn delivers everything I was hoping for. After enjoying book one, I’ve been eagerly waiting for Mo’s story, and it did not disappoint. The chemistry between Mo and Bronwyn is amazing, filled with raw emotion that comes through even in their quiet moments. The suspense grabs hold from the very first page, and the characters—especially Mo and Bronwyn—are richly developed. I also loved the strong family dynamic, which adds warmth and depth to the story. Faith is woven naturally throughout the narrative. It never feels overwhelming and instead complements the storyline beautifully. This is one of those books that makes you lose track of time—I stayed up late to finish it. While I enjoyed the other two books, Last to Fall  is easily my favorite in the series and one I know I’ll revisit. Get the Book Amazon | Bookshop | Barnes & Noble (Affiliate links in use) Book Information/Metadata Title: Last to Fall Author: Lynn H. Blackburn Publisher: ‎ Revell Publication date: ‎ March 3, 2026 Print length: ‎ 368 pages ISBN-13: ‎ 978-0800745387 Book 3 of 3: ‎ Gossamer Falls Reviewed by: MK Content Rating: 2 Hearts Reviewer's Top Pick Book Review Disclaimers / Notes The copy reviewed was provided by the publisher via NetGalley. This review reflects the opinion of the reviewer and does not necessarily represent the opinions of all other reviewers (past, present, future) who review for Books & Benches. Because we do not have a professional editor volunteer, this post was edited by the Books & Benches team with help from ProWritingAid, Grammarly, or Wix. The review and all opinions/thoughts within are the reader’s. Affiliate links are used in this post. If you click on an Amazon or Bookshop link and make a purchase, this site will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you — helping us maintain the site and share more books. About the Book Last to Fall by Lynn H. Blackburn (Retailer Description) She's caught in a deadly game. He's the only one who can help her win. Bronwyn Pierce has poured everything into The Haven, her family's exclusive mountain resort in Gossamer Falls. But when financial discrepancies surface and the numbers suggest something far darker than simple mismanagement, she's forced to call on the one person with the skills to help her: Mo Quinn, a former Army intelligence officer, her first love, and the last person she ever wanted to trust again. Mo has spent years avoiding the woman he once loved and the secrets that tore them apart. But when Bronwyn calls, he can't walk away--especially when it's clear someone wants her gone for good. As they dig deeper into the treacherous motives behind a blackmail scheme, their proximity reignites long-buried feelings neither of them are ready to face. And when the evidence points to an unexpected culprit, Mo faces an impossible choice: trust the proof in front of him or trust his heart. Get the Book Amazon  | Bookshop  | Barnes & Noble If Last to Fall  sparks your interest, e xplore more clean reads and romantic suspense .

Never Fall Again  by Lynn H. Blackburn is a fast-paced Christian romantic suspense filled with strong chemistry, rising tension, and a gentle thread of faith that keeps the story grounded. Never Fall Again  — At a Glance Genre:  Christian Romantic Suspense Tropes:  Protective hero, single mother, starting over Leads:  Artist heroine & former Marine hero Pace:  Fast-moving with rising tension Romance:  Clean, emotional, and well-developed Perfect For:  Readers who enjoy faith-forward suspense with strong chemistry Book Review of Never Fall Again by Lynn H. Blackburn Never Fall Again  by Lynn H. Blackburn is a nicely-paced Christian romantic suspense that delivers on both tension and heart. With strong chemistry between the leads and a steadily escalating sense of danger, the story pulls you in quickly and keeps the pages turning. Blackburn balances suspense and romance well, weaving faith naturally into the characters’ lives without slowing the momentum. The emotional stakes feel real, the protective-hero energy is strong, and the story offers just the right mix of hope, danger, and connection. This is a satisfying read for fans of clean romantic suspense who want both thrills and depth. I look forward to reading the rest of the series. Get the Book Amazon | Bookshop | Barnes & Noble (Affiliate links in use) Book Information/Metadata Title: Never Fall Again Author: Lynn H. Blackburn Publisher: ‎ Revell Publication date: ‎ March 12, 2024 Print length: ‎ 348 pages ISBN-13: ‎ 978-1493444724 Book 1 of 3: ‎ Gossamer Falls Reviewed by: MK Content Rating: 2 Hearts Reviewer's Top Pick Book Review Disclaimers / Notes The copy reviewed is from the reviewer's personal library. This review reflects the opinion of the reviewer and does not necessarily represent the opinions of all other reviewers (past, present, future) who review for Books & Benches. Because we do not have a professional editor volunteer, this post was edited by the Books & Benches team with help from ProWritingAid, Grammarly, or Wix. The review and all opinions/thoughts within are the reader’s. Affiliate links are used in this post. If you click on an Amazon or Bookshop link and make a purchase, this site will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you — helping us maintain the site and share more books. About the Book Never Fall Again by Lynn H. Blackburn (Retailer Description) Landry Hutton has spent three years rebuilding her life behind the secure gates of The Haven, an exclusive resort on the outskirts of Gossamer Falls, North Carolina. After serving as the artist-in-residence, Landry is finally ready to settle in permanently to give her daughter, Eliza, a safe home in which to grow up. Former Marine Callum Shaw always knew he would someday join his family's construction business in Gossamer Falls. He longs for a family of his own but has almost given up on that ever happening. The beautiful artist who has hired him to build her new house is funny, gifted, and everything Cal could ever want in a partner, but he vows to keep his distance. He's loved--and lost--someone like her before. When Landry's pottery is destroyed in a suspicious fire, it becomes clear that Landry and Eliza are in grave danger--but from whom? Cal will have to risk his heart again if he has any hope of protecting them. Get the Book Amazon  | Bookshop  | Barnes & Noble If Never Fall Again  sparks your interest, e xplore more clean reads and romantic suspense .

In the gritty streets of Victoria-era London, The Whitechapel Widow draws readers in with a blend of suspense and rich character development. This story follows Emma Langley, a young woman whose life is upended when her husband mysteriously disappears. For fans of historical mystery, this book is an engrossing mix of intrigue, and emotion featuring interesting women sleuths of strength and courage. Book Review of The Whitechapel Widow by Emily Organ From the immersive experience the author creates with her depictions of 1888 London to a mystery that leaves the reader guessing enough to keep turning the pages, the author does a great job drawing the reader in from the first page. Penny Green, a character from another of the author's series, makes an appearance, and as a first-time reader of Emily Organ, and not having read the other series, I did not feel lost with the introduction of Penny into the story. Their camaraderie shows the strength of women navigating a male-dominated world, bravely challenging societal norms. It's not all about Jack the Ripper in Whitechapel. The Whitechapel Widow is a well-written story that blends historical context and imagery with an absorbing mystery. A promising start to the Emma Langley Victorian Mystery series. I will most certainly be reading more from this author. About the Book The Whitechapel Widow by Emily Organ (retailer description) London hunts the Ripper. A widow hunts her husband's killer. London, 1888. While Jack the Ripper's reign of terror grips the city, Emma Langley's world shatters when her husband is found murdered in Whitechapel. But grief is quickly overshadowed by a startling discovery: William Langley was not the man she thought she knew. As panic fills London's streets, Emma delves into her husband's secret life, uncovering a web of lies that stretches from glittering society drawing rooms to the seedy gambling dens of the East End. Aided by Penny Green, a former reporter with a nose for trouble, Emma follows a trail of blackmail and corruption. But exposing her husband's killer could make her the next victim and in the shadows of gaslit streets, a murderer waits, ready to strike again… From the bestselling author of Penny Green comes a spellbinding new Victorian mystery series introducing Emma Langley. Buy the Book Amazon Kindle Title: The Whitechapel Widow Author: Emily Organ Publisher: ‎Storm Publishing Publication date : March 27, 2025    Genre(s): Historical Mystery, Victorian Mystery Language: ‎English    Read by: Lizzie Review Copy Source: NetGalley Disclaimers: A copy of this book was provided by the author or publisher via NetGalley. This review is the opinion of the reviewer and does not necessarily represent the opinions of all other reviewers (past, present, future) who review for Books and Benches. Because we do not have a professional editor volunteer, this post was edited with help from ProWritingAid or Grammarly. The review, and all opinions/thoughts within, are the reader's. Affiliate links are in use on this post. If you click on an Amazon or Bookshop link, and make a purchase, this site will earn a small commission. It costs you nothing and helps us to maintain this website and pay for books to share.