Search Results

Congratulations to Jo Ann Brown, author of A Wish for Home , winner of the April 2021 Readers' Choice Cover Contest! Thank you to all those who voted and supported the wonderful authors and their books! Vote in the new cover contest >

We're thrilled to welcome New York Times Bestselling Author, Linda Broday, to our bookish community. She's here to talk about secrets, temperance, and sexy saloon owner Deacon Brannock, plus she has a question for you! Read through for a fun post, short excerpt, and a book giveaway. There are a lot of goodies here, so don't miss anything! "This book has so many storylines that all tie together. A Cowboy Of Legend was one beautiful story which will pull at your heartstrings. Congrats to Ms. broday for continuing to write such amazing books with new and explosive adventures." — Tonya (Goodreads) A Cowboy of Legend It's time for a new generation to become Legend. Deacon Brannock is determined to make a name for himself and the saloon he's worked his whole life to afford. He was prepared for life in the Wild West, but he hadn't counted on Grace Legend... Grace has always fought hard for what she believes in, and after her best friend is killed at the hands of her drunk and angry husband, that includes keeping alcohol out of her town. When the owner of the new saloon turns out to be a kind and considerate man, she can't help but wonder if they could have a future together...if they weren't on opposite sides of every issue. Buy the Book Kindle | Barnes & Noble | Apple | Kobo | IndieBound | Amazon (Mass Market) Add to Goodreads “When it comes to historical westerns, I always love reading Linda Broday, as she always gives us wonderful stories, great characters and continues to make us fall in love with the couples in her western historical romances.”— Netgalley review From the author . . . I loved the turn of the century setting and it was the first time I set any series there. The world was changing very fast with all kinds of social reform in addition to a big industrial revolution so it was perfect. Grace Legend is a firebrand and neck deep in the Temperance Society and determined to change what she can and make a difference. Excuse Me, What's Your Name? This question wasn’t asked much on the American frontier and if you were so bold, you were liable to get shot. The old West offered a man a multitude of places to disappear into and leave behind whatever trouble he found himself in. It was super easy and there was no way to check on anything. No telephone. No internet. No Social Security numbers. Nothing. It was perfect. There were probably hundreds of men back then looking to change their identities and disappear and did. Outlaws checked into hotels and boardinghouses under an alias as did most politicians and famous people. In my upcoming release, A Cowboy of Legend , Deacon Brannock has taken a fake name in order to disappear. All is well and good until firebrand Grace Legend marches into Hell’s Half Acre with burning determination to shut down his saloon, The Three Deuces. She’s a member of the Temperance Society and hellbent on running him out of business. All her life, she’s taken up one cause after another but this one springs from her heart and is the one she’s most passionate about. But, here’s the thing…Grace is also a reporter and writes a weekly column under an alias. Like a bloodhound, she discovers that Deacon Brannock is hiding a juicy secret. Oh, I love it! A Cowboy of Legend contains a lot of secrets. Writing about secrets is fun for an author. Where there are secrets there’s conflict and those are what drives a story. I just love it when a book contains mysteries. I can’t turn the pages fast enough. Here’s a short excerpt a ways into the story: The ends of Brannock’s dark hair hugged his thick neck above the collarless shirt. A look she’d never seen before simmered in his gray eyes. He got to his feet. “I’ll see you out.” Her skirt swished against his pantlegs as they moved down the stairs and she thrilled at the sound. At the bottom, he took the empty cups and set them on a small table. “A truce is in order don’t you think, Grace?” “Maybe. But I haven’t changed my position. I still think selling liquor is wrong.” “Even if I do so responsibly?” His voice was quiet. He slowly moved closer until mere inches away, so near she could hardly breathe. “I’ll make a deal. I won’t cause any more trouble if you and Harry will keep the drunks out.” Why was she so breathless, for God’s sake? Brannock brushed the pad of his thumb across her cheek. “You drive a hard bargain, pretty lady.” Awareness rippled inside Grace and she couldn’t have tingled more than if lightning had struck her. “I must be loco but I’d sure like to kiss you.” The blood in Grace’s veins raced. She tilted her head in invitation and leaned toward him, eyes lowered, her heart hammering. He stood at least a foot taller and seemed like a giant tree when he placed a large hand at the small of her back. The touch of his lips to hers sent tingles skipping up her spine while the faint scent of shaving soap floated around her like autumn leaves after the first frost. She’d been kissed by a lot of boys and a few men, but none even remotely resembled this rugged, gray-eyed saloon owner who’d taken in a terrified girl and given her a safe place to hide. Grace slipped her hand around Deacon Brannock’s neck, wound her fingers in his hair, and prayed he wouldn’t end the kiss. For once, she had no intention of hurrying. Her job, the world, and sleep could wait. ***** You can find a longer excerpt on my webpage: https://lindabroday.com/books/lone-star-legends/a-cowboy-of-legend-1-lone-star-legends/ This is Book 1 of a new series called Lone Star Legends and releases April 27th. Book 2 - A Cowboy Christmas Legend follows in September. Excerpt Copyright © 2021 by Linda Broday. GIVEAWAY (1) winner will receive an autographed copy of A Cowboy of Legend ! Complete the form below, PLUS earn a bonus entry by answering this question from Linda: If you could change your identity and disappear, would you? My generation really overdid the Lindas and I’ve hated that so I think I’d chose to be Sierra or maybe Summer or Sapphire. What would you choose? Giveaway begins will last through 11:59 PM EST on May 10, 2021. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics. This giveaway is sponsored by the author. "Linda Broday knows how to write in-depth books with passion, humor, and suspense! Wow!" — Kathy (Goodreads) The Author Linda Broday is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of over 30 full length western romance novels and short stories. Watching TV westerns during her youth fed her love of cowboys and the old West and they still do. She resides in the Texas Panhandle on land the American Indian, Comancheros, and early cowboys once roamed and often hears their voices whispering in the breeze. She loves research and looking for little known tidbits to add realism to her stories. She considers herself a collector of everything from old coins to dust bunnies. https://lindabroday.com Title: A Cowboy of Legend Publisher: Sourcebooks Genre: Historical Western Romance Type: Novel Series: Lone Star Legends, book 1 Publication date: April 27, 2021 Content Rating: 5 Hearts View our rating system Thank you for visiting and reading! Feel inspired? Want others to experience the book magic? We hope you'll support this author by sharing with your friends. Have you read the book? Let us know your thoughts! Question: If you could change your identity and disappear, would you? My generation really overdid the Lindas and I’ve hated that so I think I’d chose to be Sierra or maybe Summer or Sapphire. What would you choose?

A Reader's Opinion 1804 London Melinda Starling is enjoying her first Masquerade party with her best friend Lavinia. For three years she's been on her best behaviour, not to disappoint her tyrannical grandmother or tarnish the Starling name. Even though her grandmother never let her forget that she was tarnished, and the result of her mothers indiscretion. Being a romantic at heart, she's helping her friend Lavinia elope with Mr. Fellowes. When her friend gets cold feet, Melinda takes it upon herself to advise the would-be-groom there will not be an elopement. Miles Warren is Lord Garrison, and he's helping his friend with an elopement. Miles is labelled a rake and a libertine (far from the truth) who has been falsely accused of ruining a young miss. Without wanting to attract attention, he poses as Mr. Fellowes driver. Thinking that Melinda is Lavinia, he abducts her from the ball and proceeds to meet his friend. Realizing he took the wrong girl, Miles tries to return her home but the damage is done! Melinda's grandmother is furious and washes her hands of her. Being the gentleman, Miles has no choice but to marry Melinda and avoid scandal. The romantic in Melinda always dreamed she would marry for love, and now she sees her dreams have been just dreams. Miles and Melinda have many obstacles to overcome and their attraction to each other isn't one of them. They both have secrets that ultimately bind them together. One abduction of one wrong girl makes for a wonderful romance! Definitely a must read! To Kiss a Rake WHEN A LADY IS ABDUCTED BY MISTAKE . . . Melinda Starling doesn’t let ladylike behavior get in the way of true love. She’s secretly assisting in an elopement . . . until she’s tossed into the waiting coach and driven away by a notorious rake. REVENGE REALLY DOESN’T PAY. Miles Warren, Lord Garrison, comes from a family of libertines, and he’s the worst of them all—or so society believes. When Miles helps a friend to run away with an heiress, it’s an entertaining way to revenge himself on one of the gossips who slandered him. Except that he drives off with the wrong woman . . . and as if that wasn’t scandalous enough, he can’t resist stealing a kiss. Series: Scandalous Kisses, book #1 Get Your Copy Regency Romance | Pub: July 29, 2015 | 217pp Format Read: E-Book | Source: Provided by the author or publisher Content Rating: 4 Hearts* | Read by: Maria Rose Dariotis *As of Aug 2020, we do not give ratings to books, except for content. We review and share only those books we have enjoyed and think others will enjoy, too. Learn more . This book was reviewed on the original Books & Benches site sometime in 2016, and has been reposted on the new blog for indexing purposes.

We're thrilled to welcome Denise Weimer, author of the historical Christian romance novel Bent Tree Bride , on her tour hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours ! Bent Tree Bride Caught between who she is…and who she was. Susanna Moore can’t get him out of her mind—the learned lieutenant who delivered the commission from Andrew Jackson making her father colonel of the Cherokee Regiment. But the next time she sees Lieutenant Sam Hicks, he’s leading a string of prisoners into a frontier fort, and he’s wearing the garb of a Cherokee scout rather than the suit of a white gentleman. As both Susanna’s father and Sam’s commanding officer, Colonel Moore couldn’t have made his directive to stay away from his daughter clearer to Sam. He wants a better match for Susanna—like the stuffy doctor who escorted her to Creek Territory. Then a suspected spy forces Moore to rely on Sam for military intelligence and Susanna’s protection, making it impossible for either to guard their heart. Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Christianbook "The Five Best Bits of Writing Advice I Can Give" from Denise Weimer When I started out as a bright-eyed writer clutching my journalism degree with a minor in history, many surprises awaited me, not all of them pleasant. Now, a dozen traditionally published novels and several novellas later and serving as a managing/substantive editor myself, I wish I could go back and give my newbie self some advice. I never could have imagined how much the publishing industry would change over twenty years—or that every time I reached a goal, a dose of reality simply reset the bar. Thinking of writing a novel? Maybe you’ll find some of my tips helpful. 1. Research what’s trending in publishing. When I first started writing, literary-style historical fiction with a narrator’s voice and many points of view was popular. The reader could expect lots of speaker tags like “he said,” “she gasped,” etc., and phrases such as “she wondered/thought/felt.” For standard fiction today, most publishers are looking for deep point of view, where you write as though you are in the character’s head. You can only think and sense what that character does in that moment. I’d advise getting a book on writing deep point of view or attending a conference or class. 2. Get other eyes on your project —and not just your mom or best friend. After you’ve written your story and edited it at least once yourself, run it by an experienced critique partner or beta readers before sending it to an editor or agent. What should you and your beta readers be looking for? Check out this list at https://www.deniseweimerbooks.com/freelance-editing. 3. Build an online presence before pitching your story. Publishing is so competitive these days, most credible houses expect a debut author to have built an online presence with a web site and a large social media following on at least two platforms. You can do this even before publication by blogging about your research and writing journey or reviewing books or hosting guest blogs by other writers. If you self-publish, you can build this more gradually, as you gain new readers, but if you ever approach a traditional publisher, they will still expect those numbers plus good sales for your indie titles. A poorly edited and poorly marketed title can haunt you forever. 4. Don’t be afraid to start small or to collaborate . My first published novella cost me more money than it made me but garnered a historical mentor whose generosity opened the door for the writing and publication of my first historical fiction series. I also eventually realized I needed to start with a regional publisher rather than my big dream publisher. Other great ideas? Join a MAP—Multiple Author Project—or a novella collection. You can learn so much from other authors, and joint projects also expand your readership. Big surprise—the most important open doors in my career have come from other authors. 5. Don’t compare your writing journey to someone else’s. It’s just plain hard and confusing to see your friends, or newer writers, get contracts or bigger contracts when you’ve been stuck for years. You might want to bang your head against your computer when a similar book sells as though it’s the last title available on earth while your sales barely cover printing costs. And the reviews? Don’t even get me started. But don’t go down the comparison rabbit hole. It will only hurt you. God has us each on a unique journey in life. There is more than one valid publishing path. Sometimes our writing may stall or even be completely dormant for a season when He wants us to focus on other things. Wherever you are, He has you there for a reason. Seek the reason and embrace it, and you’ll find that growth will come in unexpected ways and moments. Enjoy an Excerpt from Bent Tree Bride In this excerpt, Lieutenant Sam Hicks of the Cherokee Regiment has been assigned by his colonel to guard the colonel’s daughter and son while they are at Fort Strother in hostile Creek Territory. Susanna and George have talked Sam into demonstrating tomahawk and knife throwing at the practice range. “What is your other requirement?” “What?” Sam snatched his gaze from Susanna’s lips to her eyes. Her cheeks, already rosy in the cold, darkened another shade. “For letting me throw your little bitty knife.” “My little bitty knife?” Indignation laced his repetition of her words. “Let there be no doubt, this dagger could gut a man.” “Very well. Your lethal weapon, although you seem to think I can’t handle the larger one, much less the tomahawk.” “Why do you care about throwing a knife or a tomahawk or any weapon when your father would order his entire regiment to fight to protect you?” Susanna released a gusty sigh. “Because as much as I would like to think he will always be there, he may not. What if I lose him in battle? What if this lung sickness returns when he goes out on the next campaign and Polly can’t save him? Then what will I have left?” For one, Dr. Hawkins would rush to the rescue, although Sam would be wiser to bite his tongue than suggest that when she was this betwattled. Thankfully, she continued without pausing to solicit any answers. “I should at least be able to defend myself. The lessons at finishing school may have taught me how to speak French and snare a husband, but they are useless out here.” “You know he will send you home at the first opportunity.” As much as the thought pained him. Fort Strother would seem a cheerless place without Susanna Moore. “But that’s just it. I shouldn’t have to leave.” She balled her hands into fists at her sides. “I want to show him I am as strong as Polly. That I can survive, and not only survive, but be helpful on the frontier. I don’t have to have Cherokee blood to do that, do I?” The yearning for acceptance in Susanna’s words echoed a similar longing in Sam’s heart. She searched his eyes as she had earlier, but this time, he didn’t close his soul. If she needed strength, and he could help give it to her, what cause had he to deny her? End of Excerpt Excerpt Copyright ©Denise Weimer. Shared with permission. TOUR GIVEAWAY (1) winner will receive a print copy of Bent Tree Bride and related story, The Witness Tree (2019), a pair of silver feather earrings, and a $20 Amazon gift card! (retail value $60) ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE Giveaway began at midnight April 20, 2021 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on April 27, 2021. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics. This giveaway is sponsored by the author and organized by JustRead Tours. Giveaway is subject to the policies found here . Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops! The Author Denise Weimer writes historical and contemporary romance and romantic suspense, mostly set in her home state of Georgia. She’s authored a dozen traditionally published novels and a number of novellas. As a managing editor for the historical imprints of Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas, she also helps others reach their publishing dreams. A wife and mother of two daughters, Denise always pauses for coffee, chocolate, and old houses. Website / Newsletter / Facebook / Twitter Title: Bent Tree Bride Type: Novel Author: Denise Weimer Publisher: Smitten Historical Romance Release Date: April 13, 2021 Genre: Historical Christian Romance Content Note: 1 Heart View our rating system Author's Note on Content: "Romance (just kisses) and some violence. Even though I tried not to describe the scenes in excessive detail, battles are part of the plot of a novel set during the War of 1812 and on the frontier where three people groups clashed." Thank you for visiting and reading! Feel inspired? Want others to experience the book magic? We hope you'll support this author by sharing with your friends. Have you read the book? Let us know your thoughts!

A Reader's Opinion Highlander Neacal MacDonald was a broken man in spirit and body. He was a spy for the King but was betrayed, caught and tortured by his family's enemy clan, the MacRankins. Although broken in body and madness stirring his mind and spirit, he can't fully chase his demons away. Trying to be the best chief for his clan is difficult when everyone has you labeled the mad chief. Anna Douglas is traveling with a group of ministrels, and has the voice and face of an angel, and she's the only one that can chase his madness away. But who is Anna and who is she running from? What are her secrets? Secrets that can have a devastating effect and can bring death and destruction to everyone close to her. She dares not succumb to the attraction and desire that she feels for Neacal, even though it feels so right. Neacal can't seem to get Anna out of his mind and every time they are together he feels consumed with desire like never before. Treachery, deceit and a race for time are working against them, enemies death and destruction seem inevitable! Join Neacal and Anna as they fight for their happily ever after! Vonda Sinclair is a magnificent story teller, and she captures every emotion the hero and heroine are feeling. Fast-paced and exhilarating till the very end. Highly recommended. Highlander Unbroken Torture has driven Neacal MacDonald to the brink of madness. As the new chief of the MacDonald clan, Neacal will do whatever it takes to honor his late father and to help his clan thrive. But whispers of his madness abound and many in his clan turn traitor, wanting MacDonald of Sleat to lead them instead. Conflict ignites between the bitter rivals when Sleat garners the help of the man who tortured Neacal in the past. Can one woman's song pull him back and begin to heal his soul? Everything has been ripped from Anna Douglas except her angelic voice and the will to survive. When she meets Neacal, she recognizes something familiar in him—stark loneliness and pain. His past could be even more tragic and tarnished than hers. No one must learn her true identity or about the brutish man declaring she is his wife, for he will stop at nothing to reclaim her. Though Neacal vowed to never trust a woman again, he cannot resist the secrets in Anna's eyes or her spellbinding song, which threatens to break down the icy walls surrounding his tormented heart. Series: Highland Adventure, book 8 Get Your Copy Medieval Scottish Fiction | Pub: May 10, 2016 | 268pp Format Read: E-Book | Source: Provided by the author or publisher Content Rating: 4 Hearts* | Read by: Maria Rose Dariotis *As of Aug 2020, we no longer give ratings to books, except for content. We review and share only those books we have enjoyed and think others will enjoy, too. Learn more . This book was reviewed on the original Books & Benches site sometime in 2016, and has been reposted on the new blog for indexing purposes.

"All-in-all, The Forsaken Children was a heart-wrenching, soul-rending, tragic story that needed to be told of all the “forgotten children” of several generations. Ms. Finley was brilliant in her depictions and descriptions. " — Novels Alive The Forsaken Children A riveting tale of endurance and resilience, illustrating the spirit of a child and the bond between siblings. It’s 1921. Fifteen-year-old Hazel Winters and her six-year-old brother, William, are placed on a ship by an organization that relocates British orphans and children of poverty to new homes in Canada. Arrivals in the new land are exported to distributing houses, where devastation and heartache greet the youngsters as headmistresses govern their fate. The assurance of a better life across the ocean is far from what Hazel experiences. Through hardships and loneliness, she is determined to survive. Finding refuge in memories of the past, she clings to the dream of returning to her homeland while preserving a reunion in her heart. In 1890, orphaned Charlotte Appleton and her sister Ellie were scooped up from London’s streets and sent to new homes across the ocean. Although mere miles kept them apart, Charlotte never knew her sister’s whereabouts until a chance interaction reunites them. Together the siblings vow to make a difference for the families and home children of an institution in Toronto, Ontario. Can an unexpected guardian give Hazel renewed strength and resolve for a future of promise? Based on the child emigration movement that occurred from 1869 through the late 1930s, this poignant tale follows the lives of siblings who were burdensome byproducts of Britain's poverty. AMAZON | BARNES & NOBLE | INDIGO | INDIEBOUND | GOOGLE PLAY Enjoy an Excerpt from The Forsaken Children Inside her office, Miss King gestured to the chair in front of the desk before circling to seat herself. She peered across the desk at Colleen, who sat with her hands clasped tightly in the folds of her stained blue dress. “It saddens me to inform you that your children are no longer here,” Miss King said. “Not here? What do you mean?” Heart racing at the news, Colleen scooted to the edge of her chair. “We expected you weeks ago. The agreement was a few weeks, and from the records, I can see it’s been over a month. We aren’t a boarding house.” “But if not here, where are they?” Tears collected in her throat. “I suppose they are comfortable and enjoying the luxuries of their new homes.” “New homes? But—” “Mrs. Winters, you are a widow without means to care for your children; it’s our duty to help get children off the street.” “But orphans. My children aren’t orphans.” “No, but you abandoned them and in the eyes of the government that makes them orphans. Don’t you wish a better life for them, where—” Colleen jumped to her feet. “Their life is with me. I’m their mother. No one will love them as I will.” Limbs trembling, she pressed her palms against the desktop to steady herself before narrowing her eyes at Miss King. “Tell me where my children are. Tell me now!” Her voice resounded throughout the small office. Miss King rose, towering over her. “Calm yourself, or I will have you removed without the answers you seek.” Colleen heaved a sigh, fighting back the tears. “Where are they?” Her voice hitched. “Please, I beg you, tell me.” “I suppose they would have landed in Canada by now.” A rift opened in her heart. Her voice barely a whisper, she said, “Canada?” “That’s right. The children will be awarded to new families.” “It can’t be. I am their mother. I promised them. I…” The room spun, and Miss King and everything around her receded. Legs buckling, she plunged into a sea of darkness. End of Excerpt Excerpt Copyright ©Naomi Finley. Shared with permission. The Author Naomi Finley is an award-winning author living in Northern Alberta. She loves to travel and her suitcase is always on standby awaiting her next adventure. Naomi’s affinity for the Deep South and its history was cultivated during her childhood living in a Tennessee plantation house with six sisters. Her fascination with history and the resiliency of the human spirit to overcome obstacles are major inspirations for her writing and she is passionately devoted to creativity. In addition to writing fiction, her interests include interior design, cooking new recipes, and hosting dinner parties. Naomi is married to her high school sweetheart and she has two teenage children and two dogs named Egypt and Persia. For more information, please visit Naomi Finley’s website . You can also find her on Facebook , Instagram , and Goodreads . Genre: Historical Fiction Type: Novel Publisher: Huntson Press Publication Date: April 13, 2021 Series: The British Home Children, book 1 Content Rating: PG View our rating system Tour Giveaway Enter to win a mystery box of goodies + a copy of The Forsaken Children by Naomi Finley! The giveaway is open to the US only and ends on April 23, 2021. You must be 18 or older to enter. Void where prohibited by law. This giveaway is sponsored by the author and hosted by Historical Fiction Virtual Book Tours. Thank you for visiting and reading! Feel inspired? Want others to experience the book magic? We hope you'll support this author by sharing with your friends. Have you read the book? Let us know your thoughts!

"Robyn DeHart is the unequivocal queen of the unconventional and adventurous historical romance!" (Goodreads reviewer). Enter the exciting world of the Lords of Vice! Meet the Ladies of Virtue... specially trained to discreetly take down criminals with their parasols and hairpins. Together they form a pact to single out one man each whom they can help rise above his vice to become the gentleman he was destined to be. The Virgin and the Viscount As a Lady of Virtue, Matilda Brooks swears to reform the most despicable man of her acquaintance, her brother-in-law, Sullivan Chase, Viscount Glenbrook. Well he may not be the most despicable, but he is certainly arrogant, flirtatious, and entirely too charming. To make matters worse, he has the irritating tendency to poke fun of her and rile her emotions as no other man does. However, when she confronts him, he laughs off her concern about his slothful ways. But when a carriage accident forces Sullivan to play knight to Tilly’s damsel, his unexpected act of chivalry ends up costing them both their freedom. Her compromised reputation and his honorable declaration forces them into a marriage neither of them wants. Which is most inconvenient, given that she has sworn to despise him forever. AMAZON | BARNES & NOBLE | GOOGLE | APPLE (iBOOKS) | KOBO Add to Goodreads The Author A life-long lover of stories and adventure, it was either become a stuntwoman for the movies or live out those adventures from the safety of her PJ’s and computer. Award-winning author, Robyn DeHart chose the latter and couldn’t be happier for doing so. Known for her unique plotlines and authentic characters, Robyn is a favorite among readers and reviewers. Publishers’ Weekly claims her writing to be “comical and sexy” while the Chicago Tribune dubs her “wonderfully entertaining.” Robyn is an award-winning author as well as being a four-time RT Bookclub Reviewers’ Choice award nominee, and a three-time RomCon Reader’s Crown nominee. When not writing, you can find Robyn hanging out with her family, husband (The Professor) a university professor of Political Science and their two ridiculously beautiful and smart daughters. They live in the hill country of Texas where it’s hot eight months of the year, but those big blue skies make it worth it. Website / Goodreads / Facebook / Twitter / Newsletter Genre: Historical Romance/Regency Type: Novel Publisher: Entangled; Scandalous Publication Date: April 12, 2021 Series: Lords of Vice, Book 4 Content Rating: 5 Hearts View our rating system Thank you for visiting and reading! Feel inspired? Want others to experience the book magic? We hope you'll support this author by sharing with your friends. Have you read the book? Let us know your thoughts!

A Reader's Opinion I'll admit that I wanted to read this book based solely on the cover, but the true prize is between the pages. Thomas De Quincey is more fascinating as a character in Morrell's book than the real man. Layers of mystery unravel as we follow De Quincey through the wretched streets of London and into the lives of the upper classes. The secondary characters are a delightful surprise as each one crops up, adding a new dimension to the story. A remarkable blend of history, murder, and thrills, all executed seamlessly. This was my first David Morrell book, but it won't be my last. Thriller meets Victorian England in Inspector of the Dead , and I don't believe readers will be disappointed. Inspector of the Dead David Morrell’s MURDER AS A FINE ART was a publishing event. Acclaimed by critics, it made readers feel that they were actually on the fogbound streets of Victorian London. Now the harrowing journey continues in INSPECTOR OF THE DEAD. The year is 1855. The Crimean War is raging. The incompetence of British commanders causes the fall of the English government. The Empire teeters. Amid this crisis comes opium-eater Thomas De Quincey, one of the most notorious and brilliant personalities of Victorian England. Along with his irrepressible daughter, Emily, and their Scotland Yard companions, Ryan and Becker, De Quincey finds himself confronted by an adversary who threatens the heart of the nation. This killer targets members of the upper echelons of British society, leaving with each corpse the name of someone who previously attempted to kill Queen Victoria. The evidence indicates that the ultimate victim will be Victoria herself. Brilliantly merging historical fact with fiction, Inspector of the Dead is based on actual attempts to assassinate Queen Victoria. Amazon | More at Mulholland Books Historical Thriller/Victorian | Pub: March 24, 2015 | 367pp | Mulholland Books Format Read: Hardcover| Source: Provided by the author or publisher *As of Aug 2020, we no longer give ratings to books, except for content. We review and share only those books we have enjoyed and think others will enjoy, too. Learn more . This book was reviewed on the original Books & Benches site sometime between 2015-2016, and has been reposted on the new blog for indexing purposes.

We're thrilled to welcome David James Warren, author of No Unturned Stone , hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours ! The continuing adventures of Rembrandt Stone from the creative minds of James L. Rubart, Susan May Warren, and newcomer David Curtis Warren, writing collectively as David James Warren. No Unturned Stone The One Rule Is, Don’t Mess With The Past But he did, and now ex-detective Rembrandt Stone is reaping the devastation of ignoring those words when he traveled back in time to solve the one case that had haunted his dreams. Yes, he solved the crime. Yes, he saved lives. But Rembrandt returns to find the unthinkable has happened and his life has shattered. There’s only one answer: break the rule again. Go back in time once more, fix what went wrong, save what went right, and yeah, in his spare time solve another brutal crime. But it’s not so easy to change time, especially when time turns you into a target. And of course there’s the strong possibility if he goes again, he’ll never get back. Get ready for your mind to be blown in Book 2 of the time-travel suspense series, The True Lies of Rembrandt Stone. Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble “So, I read this book in one sitting. ONE. I never do that, ever. Seriously, ever. It's that good.”— The Cozy Bookworm Enjoy an Excerpt from No Unturned Stone Just try and outrun your demons, I dare you. I sit in my daughter’s upstairs bedroom, in my half-remodeled craftsman, the morning bright against the window, holding a black teddy bear in my shaking hands. Gomer, a throwaway gift to my then four-year-old daughter, almost an afterthought I picked up from a drugstore as I raced home from work on a long-ago birthday. A white star is embedded in the toy’s fur, and this version of Gomer still has both eyes. They stare at me, black, glassy. Shocked. It’s all wrong. Please, God, let me wake up. It’s a fear that stalks every man, at least the ones like me, middle aged, married, a father of one, trying to frame his life into something that resembles success. A fear that, despite his heroic attempts, and as much as he tries to live in the light, his mistakes will find him. And the price of those mistakes will cost him everything. The voice that confirms it is seven years old, a deafening memory deep inside my head. “But daddy, you’re a detective. You know how to find things.” Overnight my life has imploded. My house is now a war zone, the product of fury and panic, the drawers opened, dumped out, my office bearing the wreckage of my disbelief. I spent the past hour digging through my belongings—our belongings—to find anything that might give me answers. My seven-year-old daughter, Ashley, has vanished. End of Excerpt Copyright © 2021 by TriStone Media Group, LLC and David James Warren. Shared with permission. BOOKS IN THIS SERIES CONNECT WITH REMBRANDT STONE: Website | Instagram Ten Things Readers Probably Don’t Know About Me Susie 1. I lettered in football. 2. I’ve been sky diving. 3. I have 2 literary dogs--Water Mitty and Jubal Sackett 4. I’m a massive fan of Quantum Leap (who isn’t?) 5. I love to watercolor paint in my off time. 6. I’m a closet fantasy reader. 7. I watch sailing shows on YouTube at night to relax. 8. I dream of sailing the world with my husband. 9. I ‘m a scuba diver…and ran out of air will 100 feet down in the Mediterranean Sea. 10. I’m a little bossy. :) Jim 1. I used to be a semi-pro magician and was invited to perform for George W. Bush during his first presidential run. 2. I’m a scuba diver. 3. I crushed three fingers on my right hand when I was one and a half years old but a miracle happened and the fingers healed and grew like normal. 4. I’ve almost drowned—twice. 5. I used to be on air at a Seattle radio station. 6. I have no concept of how long things are going to take. 7. I love cake, but I don’t need the cake. (Frosting!) 8. I barely passed math in high school. (And no, I’ve never used any of the things I almost learned.) 9. I can juggle. 10. If I’ve been to a place once I can find my way there again. (But I can’t keep track of anything in my home.) David 1. I fast regularly 2. I have one pointed ear 3. I love reading and writing poetry 4. I like to swim in jeans 5. I chew my nails 6. I was a theater minor (even though I can’t dance) 7. My chess.com rating is about 1350. (Good, but not great.) 8. As a kid, I loved playing with Legos and Bionicles. 9. I almost never look at social media. 10. I’ve been to more than 10 different countries. TOUR GIVEAWAY (1) winner will receive a print copy of Cast the First Stone & No Unturned Stone ! Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight April 6, 2021 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on April 13, 2021. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics. Giveaway is subject to the policies found here . Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops! The Authors writing as David James Warren James L. Rubart is 28 years old, but lives trapped inside an older man’s body. He’s the best-selling, Christy Hall of Fame author of ten novels and loves to send readers on mind-bending journeys they’ll remember months after they finish one of his stories. He’s dad to the two most outstanding sons on the planet and lives with his amazing wife on a small lake in eastern Washington. More at http://jameslrubart.com/ CONNECT WITH JAMES: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter Susan May Warren is the USA Today bestselling, Christy and RITA award–winning author of more than eighty novels whose compelling plots and unforgettable characters have won acclaim with readers and reviewers alike. The mother of four grown children, and married to her real-life hero for over 30 years, she loves traveling and telling stories about life, adventure, and faith. For exciting updates on her new releases, previous books, and more, visit her website at www.susanmaywarren.com . CONNECT WITH SUSAN: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter David Curtis Warren is making his literary debut in these novels, and he’s never been more excited. He looks forward to creating more riveting stories with Susie and Jim, as well as on his own. He’s grateful for his co-writers, family, and faith, buoying him during the pandemic of 2020, and this writing and publishing process. CONNECT WITH DAVID: Instagram Title: No Unturned Stone Series: The True Lies of Rembrandt Stone #2 Author: David James Warren Publisher: TriStone Media Release Date: April 6, 2021 Genre: Time Travel Detective Series Content Note: PG View our rating system Thank you for visiting and reading! Feel inspired? Want others to experience the book magic? We hope you'll support this author by sharing with your friends. Have you read the book? Let us know your thoughts!

A Reader's Opinion For me, this story really began once Della arrived in Scofield. At 8,000 ft elevation, the mining camp didn't seem to offer much that would entice a teacher from the city. I felt as though Della endured that first sight simply because she didn't feel turning back was an option, but you soon see her sense of adventure and her willingness to not give up. Owen Davis is a charmer and I enjoyed his banter with Della. Where I admired Della's courage and strength, Owen was my favorite. Despite his difficulties, he makes room in his life for hope. I enjoyed the blending of cultures and most especially the history behind the mining disaster. The author made this event feel very real and I found myself feeling the same emotions as the characters. The romance is present, but it burns slowly and sweetly. The author definitely has a talent for writing and keeps the pace of the story going from chapter to chapter. "Live a little and laugh some more"—my favorite line from the book! Note from Reader: This book has a good deal of religion in it. It didn't bother me, but it is present. I feel that it adds to the story rather than overpowers it, but that is just this reader's opinion. My Loving Vigil Keeping Della's giving up all the comforts of bustling Salt Lake City to teach school in a rural coal mining camp. Little does she know, she may soon be giving up her heart as well. But when tragedy strikes in the Scofield Mine, Della's life will be changed forever. Based on true events, this thrilling new romance from award-winning and bestselling author Carla Kelly is a must-read! Get Your Copy | Add to Goodreads Historical Romance/Religious Fiction | Pub: August 14, 2012 | 364pp | Cedar Fort, Inc. Format Read: Paperback | Source: Provided by the author or publisher Content Rating: 1 Heart* | Read by: MK *As of Aug 2020, we no longer give ratings to books, except for content. We review and share only those books we have enjoyed and think others will enjoy, too. Learn more . This book was reviewed on the original Books & Benches site sometime between 2012-2016, and has been reposted on the new blog for indexing purposes.

Duke of Disrepute Who doesn’t love a duke? How about five of them? Welcome to bestselling author Alexa Aston’s new Regency romance series, the Dukes of Distinction! These five aristocrats all come with nicknames Polite Society has bestowed upon them. Renown. Charm. Disrepute. Arrogance. Honor. A beautiful widow at the mercy of selfish relatives . . . A duke broken by a terrible secret . . . Lady Elise Ruthersby is with child when her husband is killed, and the family awaits the birth to see who will be the new earl. A daughter arrives, relegating Elise to the status of a servant as she becomes the unpaid governess to her two nephews. Weston Wallace, the Duke of Treadwell, learns a devastating secret about his fiancée the night before their wedding, causing him to break their engagement. He becomes London’s most notorious rake, with a rule that he only beds a woman once. When Elise and her daughter are trapped in a carriage struck by a flaming tree in a perilous storm, Weston rescues the pair. Years of cynicism fall to the wayside as he becomes captivated by the beautiful widow and her enchanting daughter. Weston decides he must marry the woman who has thawed his cold heart without scaring her away because of his vile reputation. The two strike a bargain where Elise will help Weston navigate the Marriage Mart during the upcoming Season if he will help her find a husband. Little does the unsuspecting widow know that London’s most infamous womanizer has already decided who his duchess will be. Can the Duke of Disrepute convince Elise that he’s a changed man—due to love? Find the answer in The Duke of Disrepute, Book 3 in the Dukes of Distinction . Each book in Dukes of Distinction is a standalone story that can be enjoyed out of order and can be read for free in Kindle Unlimited. Amazon The Author Award-winning and internationally bestselling author Alexa Aston lives with her husband in a Dallas suburb, where she eats her fair share of dark chocolate and plots out stories while she walks every morning. She’s a binge fiend (The Crown and Ozark are favorites) who enjoys travel, sports, and time with her family. Her historical romances bring to life loveable rogues and dashing knights, while her contemporary romances are light and flirty and sometimes contain a bit of suspense. Her series include Soldiers & Soulmates, Hollywood Name Game, and The St. Clairs. Website: alexaaston.com Genre: Historical Romance Type: Novel Series: Dukes of Distinction Publication date: April 6, 2021 Content Rating: 5 Hearts View rating system

Voting is open for the April 2021 book cover contest. View the finalists and c ast your vote on the cover contest page.