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If you love heart-pounding suspense, compelling characters, and a romance forged under pressure, Shadow of Betrayal by Blaire Morgan delivers an unforgettable reading experience. This gripping romantic suspense novel blends danger, corruption, and emotional depth into a story that will keep readers turning pages late into the night. Why Readers Will Love Shadow of Betrayal Fast-paced romantic suspense filled with twists and tension A strong, determined heroine facing impossible odds A protective hero willing to risk everything Atmospheric Maine and Blue Ridge Mountain settings that add to the story’s suspense A compelling blend of mystery, danger, and romance Perfect For Fans Of... Readers who enjoy romantic suspense packed with action, emotional intensity, and high-stakes intrigue will find plenty to love in Shadow of Betrayal. The novel delivers the perfect balance of thrilling suspense and heartfelt romance, creating a story that keeps readers invested until the very last page. If you're looking for a captivating read where danger and desire collide, Shadow of Betrayal deserves a place on your reading list. Get your copy of Shadow of Betrayal. Shadow of Betrayal by Blaire Morgan In this chilling romantic suspense, U.S. Marshals investigator Heather York stumbles into danger at a Maine lakeside lodge, with Jordan Kyndall’s protective instincts as her only hope. A woman hunted by corruption. Heather York thought her life was ordinary—until a sudden threat pulls her into a deadly game. In Shadow of Betrayal, she’s forced to question whether she’s a target—or collateral damage. A man who won’t walk away. Jordan Kyndall planned a weekend celebrating his college roommate’s wedding. Instead, he finds a grisly scene in the woods—a woman’s lifeless body—and a surge of protective instinct binds him to Heather in ways he never expected. A danger that could destroy them both. As threats multiply and secrets surface, Heather and Jordan must navigate corruption, desire, and deadly stakes—trusting each other may be the only way to survive. Get your copy of Shadow of Betrayal. Read an Excerpt from Shadow of Betrayal Prologue The drive to the dingy bar outside of the city had been rough when the directions led him down a series of dirt roads before reaching what managed to loosely be called civilization. The bell above the door chimed a dull sound, barely registering his presence. He shook his rain-soaked umbrella, drawing a few curious glances his way before the three men at the bar decided their cold beer and stale peanuts were more interesting than him. The bartender, a man in his late fifties with a marine tattoo on a bicep, asked him if he wanted anything. Though kind, if the bartender had offered him a bottle of the Alps’ finest water, he wouldn’t accept—not in a place like this—but he was trying to blend in. “Whatever is on tap,” he said, and found a table in a back corner. Although he had no intention of staying longer than necessary, the location offered him anonymity. The front door, with its surprisingly clean window, opened and brought with it a strong wind and his associate. The new arrival scanned the room, nodded at the others, and crossed the dark bar. “You’re late.” “I’m here now. You have something for me, Hewitt?” He’d made a mistake giving the man a name, even if it wouldn’t lead back to him. They’d agreed not to use names, not here, not ever. He removed a black, zippered deposit bag from the inside pocket of his rain slicker and slid it across the table. The man across from him chuckled and unzipped the bag. “What do you think you’re doing?” Hewitt asked, his whisper a low hiss. He quieted when the bartender set a beer in front of him. His associate raised an eyebrow and continued to wear his smile. “You’ve seen too many movies.” He closed the bag and leaned forward. “Do you honestly think anyone here cares who you are or what you’re doing? At least you dressed for the occasion—kind of.” Hewitt stared at the man across from him, confident that despite his off-balanced behavior at times, he’d get the job done. History had proven he was capable, if not entirely trustworthy, and willing to do anything—for a price. “You’re forgetting something,” he said. Hewitt hated this man. “It’s in the bag.” Another chuckle. “In the bag, I like that.” He pulled the colored photograph from the deposit bag and studied the image. “How’d you find me?” “Does it matter?” “I like to know what I’m getting into.” Hewitt studied him, unsure now of his idea but knowing he had to move forward. “All you need to know is I can make your other . . . inconvenience go away.” “And what might that be?” Hewitt pulled a folded sheet of paper from his inside breast pocket and slid it across the table. “I’m not sure I believe you.” “You know who I work for?” Hewitt asked. “I checked it out.” “Then you know I can do what I say,” Hewitt said, growing impatient. “Will it be a problem?” “No, no problem.” Instead of returning the picture to the bag, he slipped it into the pocket of his dark, denim shirt. “You going to drink this?” he asked before he lifted Hewitt’s beer and drank deeply. From Chapter One Jordan eased the rented SUV into the graveled parking lot of the lakeside lodge. Nestled in the thick pine forest surrounding Moosehead Lake, the Highlands Lodge reminded him of the fishing camp his family frequented in Alaska. He stepped out and walked around to the back of the vehicle, breathing in the fresh northern air. Though nothing like his hometown of Stewart Crossing, which was tucked away on a remote Alaskan bay, Moose Creek, Maine, was a pleasant escape from the spring heat of North Carolina, where he operated the main branch of Eagle Wilderness Journeys. The parking lot was empty, but he heard voices coming from the back of the lodge, laughter carrying through the trees and echoing over the water. Adam, his college roommate and the reason Jordan trekked up north, ambled across the gravel and pulled Jordan into a big hug. Considering Adam stood four inches shorter than Jordan and weighed thirty pounds less, it wasn’t easy. “Dang, it’s good to see you.” Jordan returned the amiable smile. “You look happy.” “Wait till you meet her.” Adam opened the back of the SUV and lifted the duffel out before Jordan objected. “You’re going to love her. I mean, whoever thought I’d ever be monogamous.” Jordan laughed, closed the back door, and followed Adam to the lodge. “If I recall, you didn’t know the meaning of the word throughout our senior year.” “Well, yeah, but could you blame me?” Adam led him around the corner of the lodge and stopped. “Wait, there she is.” Adam had described her perfectly. Girl-next-door pretty and fresh off the cheerleading squad, Grace was only a year younger than his friend. Her pale, blond curls bounced as she walked on long legs across the lawn. “She’s something all right. I wouldn’t have expected—” It wasn’t often when life’s unexpected moments stunned Jordan into silence or immobilized him, but none stopped his breath quite like his first glimpse of the woman standing next to Adam’s fiancée. “Who is she?” “It’s Grace, man, who do you think . . . Ah.” Adam nudged Jordan’s ribs with his elbow and laughed. “That’s Heather, Grace’s maid of honor.” Jordan didn’t want to use the word “dumbstruck,” but at the moment, he couldn’t formulate another. His sister would have called him “twitterpated” and normally he would put her in a headlock until she cried “mercy” and take it back, but it had been a long time since she’d had cause to tease him about a girl. “Hey, buddy, close your mouth before you drool.” Jordan wiped his mouth before he realized Adam was messing with him. “Don’t forget, I can still kick your golf-playing butt from here to next Tuesday.” “Why don’t I introduce you instead, and then you can owe me one.” End of Excerpt. Excerpt © Blaire Morgan. Shared here with permission from the author. Genre: Romantic Suspense Published by: Blaire Morgan Books Publication Date: June 8, 2026 Series: Kyndall Family Suspense Series, Book 2 Reader content note provided by the author: Features non-graphic violence, minimal mild language, and moderate romantic intimacy (PG-13). 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 If Shadow of Betrayal sparks your interest, explore more romantic suspense, and don't miss Witness in the Shadows, book one in the series.

Sweet Talk is a romantic suspense novel by Julie Garwood that blends suspense, tension, and heartfelt romance. It follows a compelling relationship that unfolds alongside a dangerous investigation, combining emotional depth with fast-paced intrigue. At a Glance Genre: Romantic Suspense/Thriller Tone: Emotional, gripping, heartfelt Setting: Washington D.C. Series: Book 10 of 14: ‎ Buchanan/Renard/MacKenna (can be read as a standalone) Best for: Readers who enjoy strong heroines, protective heroes, and romance woven into high-stakes suspense Book Review of Sweet Talk by Julie Garwood Sweet Talk is a warm, engaging romantic suspense novel that delivers exactly what fans of Julie Garwood expect: sharp dialogue, steady tension, and characters you actually care about. The story follows a strong-willed heroine and a determined hero whose chemistry builds naturally through both witty exchanges and high-stakes moments. Garwood balances romance with suspense in a way that keeps the pacing lively without overwhelming the emotional core of the relationship. The banter feels effortless, and the central mystery adds just enough intrigue to keep the pages turning. And seriously, I just love Grayson. He's everything a modern and city-based romance suspense hero should be, and Olivia is the perfect match for him. I also like how Garwood used family names from her historical books for her contemporary characters. It’s an easy, satisfying read that blends heart, humor, and suspense into a well-paced story. Overall, Sweet Talk is an enjoyable, feel-good romantic thriller that will appeal especially to readers who like their romance with a touch of danger and a lot of charm. Get the Book Amazon A suspenseful romance where sharp chemistry and rising danger keep the pages turning, delivering both heart and intrigue in equal measure. Book Information/Metadata Title: Sweet Talk Author: Julie Garwood Book 10 of 14: ‎Buchanan/Renard/MacKenna Publisher: ‎Dutton Publication date: August 7, 2012 Language: ‎English Print length: ‎368 pages ISBN-13: 978-0525952862 Reviewed by: Lizzie Content Rating: 5 Hearts 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 Sweet Talk by Julie Garwood (Retailer Description) When FBI agent Grayson Kincaid first encounters Olivia MacKenzie, she makes quite an impression. The beautiful, tough, young attorney has stumbled into the middle of an FBI sting operation and has reduced it to chaos. Months of surveillance and careful planning down the drain, Kincaid’s partner is furious and lets Olivia know that she’s ticked off the wrong guy. After all, he’s FBI. Olivia isn’t intimidated by his partner’s bullying because she’s something even scarier . . . she’s IRS. And working for the IRS isn’t for the faint of heart. She’s on the trail of an elaborate Ponzi scheme, one that threatens to ruin the lives of naive and unsuspecting victims, and one she has personal reasons to be angry about. But after she asks questions of the wrong people, her life is suddenly endangered. She’s accustomed to fighting for the underdog but being vulnerable herself is a very different story. Smart enough to know when to call for reinforcements, she contacts Grayson Kincaid. Together they make an excellent team to fight corruption but Olivia is also fighting the immediate and intense attraction she feels for Agent Kincaid, and that may be a battle she is bound to lose. Get the Book Amazon Thank you for reading and visiting Books & Benches. Feel inspired? Share the magic of Sweet Talk with fellow readers and explore more romantic suspense books in our archives.

In The Daredevil by Regan Walker, courage is found in the crash of waves against a fragile deck, in the split-second decisions between survival and sacrifice, and in the quiet pull of a promise waiting on shore. This is a story of courage, faith, and a relentless spirit that helped shape America’s fight for independence. Continue reading for an excerpt from The Daredevil. The Daredevil At-a-Glance Tone: Adventurous and heroic with romantic undertones Setting: American Revolutionary War era, primarily at sea and coastal New England Genre: Historical fiction / historical romance Focus: Filled with naval battles, daring rescues, and high-stakes missions Best for readers of: Revolutionary War fiction, naval adventures, historically grounded romances, and stories inspired by real-life figures About the Book The Daredevil by Regan Walker Before there was a Continental Navy, there was one man’s courage... When young merchant captain Samuel Tucker learns that war has broken out between Britain and the Colonies, he cannot stand idle. Leaving the safety of London’s port, he races home across a storm-tossed Atlantic to offer his sword to liberty’s cause. Along the way, he saves a valuable ship, her crew, and her cargo, a deed that brings him before General Washington himself. The grateful commander offers Sam command of one of his newly armed schooners. From those perilous beginnings in Washington’s shadow fleet, Sam rises through the ranks of the Continental Navy and beyond, eventually commanding a privateer that strikes deep into the British supply lines. From the fogbound wharves of Marblehead to the treacherous shoals of Halifax and Europe, he wages war with the daring of a man who seems to fear neither sea nor shot. To his men he is “the Daredevil”, fearless, quick-witted, and guided by an unshakable faith. Yet amid the thunder of broadsides and the peril of capture, Sam’s heart is not immune to gentler battles. Mary Gatchell, the steadfast Marblehead woman whose prayers sustain him from shore, anchors the life he risks with every voyage. But the sea is a jealous mistress, and every homecoming may be his last. Get the Book Kindle | Paperback | Audiobook (Affiliate links may be used.) This is book three in Regan Walker's Dawn of America series, the first three of which tell the stories of the brave American privateers in the Revolutionary War. Don't miss The Irish Yankee and The Salamander, books one and two in the Dawn of America series. “A vivid and engaging story of sacrifice and love in the American Revolution, and an exciting tale of courage and adventure. I was constantly on the edge of my seat!” ~ Readers’ Favorite “The Daredevil carries a profound atmospheric detail across its chapters, making the reader feel present. This story presents you with a hero you would root for, a partnership you can’t help but envy, and a faith that might leave you inspired to work on your own.” ~ The Feathered Quill Book Information Title: The Daredevil Author: Regan Walker Publisher: ‎Patriotic Books Publishing Publication date: ‎April 14, 2026 Print length: ‎349 pages ISBN-13: ‎‎ 979-8999794710 Genre: Historical Biographical Fiction/Revolutionary War Content Rating: 1 Heart (provided by the author) Enjoy an Excerpt from The Daredevil Dawn broke under sullen skies as Sam boarded the Morris that would carry him home, or at least close enough to Marblehead to see him there soon. Captain Thomas Bell greeted him cordially at the rail, pleased to have an experienced seaman among his passengers. Three weeks out of London, the Morris met a furious gale. The sea rose in gray, heaving walls, the brig plunging through vast troughs. Waves twenty feet high crashed onto the deck, tearing rigging from the mastheads. The ship groaned like a living thing beneath the strain. Fear showed plain on every face. “She’ll founder any moment!” cried the first officer, his voice thin against the wind. Captain Bell’s orders came haltingly, confusion in his tone. The men hesitated, eyes white with terror at the sight of their officers giving way to fear. “Hold fast!” Sam bellowed his voice carrying through the storm. “We’ll not founder this night. Steady your hearts, lads!” Then, turning to Bell, he said, “Sir, I’ve been a captain since I was seventeen and weathered worse storms than this. Give me the helm and I’ll see your ship safely through it.” The captain, his face drawn and wet with spray, met Sam’s eyes and nodded. “Very well. Take her, and may God guide you.” Sam seized the wheel. “Hands aloft! Storm-sail on the fore—just a scrap! Stream a drag astern. Lash the tiller. Bring her up, steady into the wind!” Lightning split the sky, showing men half-submerged at the rail, the decks awash. “Heave to!” he roared. “Let her ride the gale, not run before it!” Hour after hour he held the wheel, soaked to the bone, muscles burning, the deck alive beneath his boots. When the worst of the wind passed, he felt that familiar mingling of exhaustion and exultation that comes to a man who has mastered chaos by sheer will. At dawn the wind slackened, the great seas heaved themselves flat, and the Morris still floated. The exhausted crew stared in disbelief. Captain Bell clapped a trembling hand on Sam’s shoulder. “You’ve saved her, Captain, and every man aboard. I’ll see Mr. Morris hears of this. Your skills saved the cargo destined for Washington’s army.” Tucker bowed his head, salt water dripping from his hair. “Thank Providence first, Captain. Then tell Mr. Morris.” End of Excerpt. Excerpt © Regan Walker. Shared here with permission. About the Author Regan Walker is an award-winning, # 1 Amazon bestselling author of Regency, Georgian and Medieval novels that are historically authentic. Among the awards she has won are the Gold Medal in the Readers Choice Book Awards, the Gold Medal in the Illumination Awards, 1st place in the Chaucer Awards, the International Book Award for Romance Fiction, the San Diego Book Award for Best Historical Romance, the President's Book Awards of The Florida Authors & Publishers Association, the RONE Award for Best Medieval Novel (twice) and the Kindle Book Award. You can sign up for her newsletter on her website and get the "Reader Extras" there, too. Regan loves to hear from her readers. Author website: www.reganwalkerauthor.com Amazon Author Page | Facebook Readers Group | Historical Romance Review Thank you for visiting Books & Benches. If you enjoy historical fiction rooted in real lives and meaningful choices, consider adding The Salamander to your reading list — and sharing this spotlight with a fellow reader who loves immersive, thought-provoking stories. Explore more historical fiction in our archives.

"Wilde Hopes and Dreams" by Autumn Cotter In this heartwarming contemporary romance, Gemma retreats to a remote mountain cabin, hoping to find space to heal and make sense of her loss. Surrounded by the stillness of nature, she begins to rediscover herself through watercolor and the simple beauty of wildflowers. But when an unexpected connection enters her life, what begins as solitude slowly becomes something more. Continue reading for a short excerpt from her story. "Wilde Hopes and Dreams" by Autumn Cotter The Story At a Glance Genre: Sweet Contemporary Romance/Women's Fiction Tone: Emotional and lighthearted Setting: Beautiful mountain setting, meadows, and cabins Best for: Readers who appreciate heartwarming contemporary romances, stories of healing and second changes About the Book "Wilde Hopes and Dreams" by Autumn Cotter Gemma Wilde seeks solace in a remote mountain cabin, where the serene beauty of the mountains, with their whispering winds and rustling leaves, offers her a gentle escape. She finds unexpected purpose in her watercolor paintings of wildflowers, leading her to a surprising commission and a heartwarming connection with a neighboring writer, Garrison Dawes, who shares a similar loss. Gemma’s journey is one of healing, rediscovering passion, and embracing a new beginning. Who is this story for? This story is perfect for readers who enjoy heartwarming contemporary romances, particularly those who appreciate stories about healing from grief and finding love again. Women, especially those who have experienced loss or are looking for a story of hope and resilience, would likely connect with Gemma’s journey. Keywords: Emotional, Second-Chance, Sweet Romance, Clean Ready to enjoy this sweet mountain romance? Buy "Wilde Hopes and Dreams" today! "Wilde Hopes and Dreams" by Autumn Cotter Enjoy an Excerpt from "Wilde Hopes and Dreams" On a spring morning, after she believed nothing in her life would ever be the same, Gemma Wilde took the road less traveled. The sweet apple blossom fragrance filled the air as she walked along the path behind her cabin, dotted with pretty yellow glacier lilies and dew-kissed grass. The hem of her long skirt dampened every time she veered a little too far off the trail, where she bent to pick a lovely flower. Beyond the trees, mountains soared to snow-capped peaks. The small bouquet she’d gathered would look lovely in the blue mason jar on her kitchen windowsill, a spot of brightness to match the tentative hope blooming deep within. She paused, letting the sunshine warm her face. Six months ago, she couldn’t have imagined feeling anything but grief. “You’re running away,” her sister had said when Gemma announced she’d bought the cabin. Perhaps she was right. But standing here now, birdsong overhead and the distant murmur of the creek, Gemma felt like she was running toward something instead. She continued along the path until it opened to her favorite spot—a small clearing where an ancient oak spread its massive limbs. Beneath it sat the weathered bench her neighbor, Old Mr. Thatcher, helped her position there last autumn. She settled onto it, arranging her flowers beside her. The letter in her pocket crinkled as she shifted. She’d read it three times already but pulled it out again, fingers tracing the letterhead of a small publishing house with a reputation for quality over quantity. They wanted her illustrations for a children’s book about mountain wildflowers. Her work—the delicate watercolors she’d started painting to fill endless, lonely evenings—appears to have value to someone besides herself. A chickadee landed on a branch above, tilting its head as if curious about the woman smiling at a piece of paper. Gemma looked up at the tiny bird and whispered, “I think I’m going to be okay.” The chickadee chirped in response before fluttering away, leaving Gemma alone with her thoughts and the gentle rustling of new leaves. She folded the letter carefully and tucked it back into her pocket. A commission. Her first real one. The thought sent a pleasant shiver down her spine. When David died, she’d lost more than her husband—she’d lost her sense of purpose, her belief that life followed a predictable path. The watercolors had begun as therapy, suggested by the grief counselor she’d seen in those first dark months. “Find something that lets you express what you can’t say,” the counselor had advised. Gemma gathered her flowers and stood, brushing a stray petal from her skirt. The walk back to the cabin seemed shorter somehow, her steps lighter. The small structure came into view—weathered cedar siding, the porch she’d swept clean that morning, the wind chimes David had made her for their second anniversary tinkling in the breeze. “I’m doing it,” she whispered to his memory. “I’m finding my way.” End of Excerpt. Excerpt copyright © Autumn Cotter. This excerpt has been provided by the author and shared here with permission. The Author Autumn Cotter, a pseudonym, spent two decades solving people problems in the corporate world. She now channels her experience into bringing mindful stillness and creative inspiration to others. She lives in the mountains among wildflowers and dreams where she writes stories. ​​​​ www.autumncotter.com Looking for more sweet romance reads? Explore other heartwarming romances on Books & Benches. Thank you for reading and visiting Books & Benches. If this book sparked your interest or it stayed with you, consider sharing it with another reader who might enjoy a little book magic of their own.

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.

The Kyndall siblings don’t just share blood; they share a fight. Loyalty, trust, and fierce protection define their bond as danger closes in. What Readers Can Expect A fast-paced thriller prequel that delivers high tension in a short, bingeable format A rugged Alaskan setting that amplifies isolation, danger, and suspense A strong female FBI agent protagonist facing a threat she never sees coming A relentless chase as Alexa and her brothers race to stop a killer before an old friend becomes the next victim Great for Readers Who Love: Short, bingeable thrillers, Family-centered thrillers Series Connection: Prequel to the Kyndall Family Suspense series Stewart's Crossing: Cold Pursuit by Blaire Morgan A Kyndall Family Short Story Thriller Prequel In this tense short thriller, FBI Special Agent Alexa Kyndall returns home seeking peace—and finds a killer waiting in the shadows. She won’t see it coming. The faces of countless vile, unrepentant criminals who have escaped justice haunt FBI Special Agent Alexa Kyndall. After coming off a harrowing kidnapping case, she seeks solace in her hometown of Stewart’s Crossing, hoping the familiar sights and comforts of family bring her peace. Set in the rugged Alaskan wilderness, Stewart’s Crossing: Cold Pursuit is a thrilling short story prequel to the Kyndall Family Suspense series. As the danger escalates, Alexa and her brothers race to stop a killer before an old friend becomes his next victim. …time is running out, and every second counts. Join the Kyndalls in the chase here → Find this book on Amazon. About the Author 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. Book 1 in the Kyndall Family Suspense series Witness in the Shadows by Blaire Morgan A Kyndall Family Romantic Suspense Novel Alexa Kyndall is drawn into a deadly hunt for a serial killer—and into the path of a man willing to do whatever it takes to protect her. Witness in the Shadows is for readers who love a fast-paced romantic suspense with high stakes and deep emotional currents. It will particularly appeal to fans of resilient, professional heroines and strong, protective heroes with hidden depths. Anyone who enjoys a story where external danger forces characters to confront their internal traumas and find love amidst chaos will find this book thrilling. Learn More → Does Stewart's Crossing: Cold Pursuit spark your interest? Share the thrilling magic with fellow readers and explore more suspenseful books 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 .