Search Results

Today we have the great pleasure of welcome co-authors E.B. Wheeler and Jeffery Bateman to Books & Benches. Wheeler is an award-winning author of multiple novels, short stories, and magazine articles, and Bateman is a retired U.S. Air Force Colonel. His work as a historian has been published in peer-reviewed journals, including the Utah Historical Quarterly, Airpower History, and the U.S. Army War College Press. “This is my chance to show that I deserve to be a citizen of this country too. If I come back in a casket draped in the stars and stripes, they can’t say anymore that I’m not American.” —From No Peace with the Dawn In 1917, the Great War seems far from Logan, Utah. But soon it will change the lives of suffragette and mechanic Clara, Swiss-German immigrant and LDS convert Trudi, Marine Corps volunteer Reed, and Shoshone seeking U.S. citizenship Joseph. This novel weaves real events with compelling fictional characters into a sweeping tale of war, romance, self-discovery, and sacrifice. From No Peace with the Dawn : I know the style of the day is to be oblique and coy in letters, but I feel like I must tell you what is in my heart. If nothing else, our experiences in France must surely teach us that life is fleeting and that we must live it fully while we can. To that end, I tell you now and forever that I am in love with you. AMAZON | B&N | BOOKS & THINGS Q&A WITH THE AUTHORS Please tell us a little about your newest release, No Peace with the Dawn . NO PEACE WITH THE DAWN follows the lives of a group of friends as the U.S. enters the Great War. Daredevil Reed volunteers as a Marine and serves in some of the most grueling fighting on the Western Front, including the crucible of Belleau Wood. Joseph, a Shoshone, hopes to become a U.S. citizen by responding to the call when he's drafted illegally. Clara, determined to do her bit, volunteers to serve as a YMCA worker and then ambulance driver in France. Trudi, a Swiss-German immigrant who came to the U.S. to escape religious persecution, endures harassment on the home front as anti-German sentiment reaches a frenzy. World War I is often overlooked, resting as it does in the shadows of World War II, but as the centennial of the U.S. entering the Great War approaches in 2017, NO PEACE WITH THE DAWN reminds us of the courage, sacrifices, and changing world of the “lost generation,” and helps us understand how the horrors of WWI shattered the innocence of a generation and set the stage for WWII. Though the main characters are fictional, their experiences are based on those of real people, and historical figures make an appearance in the book as well, including one of the great Marine heroes of WWI and the original Native American Code Talkers. What is your favorite scene in NO PEACE WITH THE DAWN? Jeff: My favorite scene is Reed standing in front of his Marines waiting to attack the Germans at Belleau Wood. It is his great test, under the most trying circumstances imaginable. He is afraid of failing more than he is of dying. He knows the men behind him will follow his example, but he doesn't know if he can even move forward toward the deadly German Maxim machine guns, much less lead his men. Emily: Mine is a scene where Clara has to decide if she'll risk her own life for a chance to save a gassed soldier. Like Reed's scene above, it's a moment of truth for her, one where she realizes what matters to her and finds some peace from her inner demons. Do you share any personality traits with the main characters? Emily: Clara is much more daring than I am, but I think I share her intense frustration with injustice and desire to make things right. Jeff: Not that many. Reed, at least in the early part of book, is cocky and a bit reckless, neither of which are a part of my personality. He is also pretty smooth with the ladies, another chromosome I lack. But one thing I like about Reed is his ability to grow as he assumes this great responsibility of leading men into combat. He learns humility and to put the well-being of others before his own. I like to think these are lessons I learned during my own military career, though Reed had to learn these lessons much faster than I did. What type of hero do you like best? Jeff: Humble ones. People like Captain George Hamilton, the Marine hero of the Great War. He fought in all eight Marine battles in WWI, earning two Navy Crosses and a host of other medals and awards. He led from the front and he never quit. We put him in the book as Reed's commanding officer, both to highlight his heroism and to provide an ideal Reed could aspire to become. Emily: I've always liked every day heroes—the ones who are just living their lives as well as they're able to, but when they see a problem or an opportunity, they step up to do their part. World War I was full of those kind of heroes. What was the hardest thing about writing NO PEACE WITH THE DAWN? Emily: For me, it was related to the research. I was fascinated by all the stories I came across, and it was hard, sometimes, to have to decide to leave things out because they didn't fit with the rest of the book. It was also frustrating at times to be looking for details that just weren't recorded. World War I was only a hundred years ago, but there are still things that we've lost. Jeff: That's a good question. It was a fantastic experience writing with E.B. Wheeler. I don't think co-authoring is for everyone, but it sure worked well for us. Without divulging plot spoilers, there is a scene in the book I wrote, a letter, where I cried like a baby when I wrote it and every time I read it for weeks after. It was such a strange experience because the story I'm telling is totally fictitious, but I guess I found myself pretty deeply invested in the characters and in the unfolding events. Is that a moment of Zen? I like to think it was. AN EXCERPT FROM No Peace with the Dawn “Why won’t you go out with me?” “Because I don’t like you.” “Don’t like me?” Reed wrinkled his forehead in confusion, then his eyes brightened with amused determination. “Well, I can fix that.” Clara almost slapped the confidence off his face. So much for women’s inherent goodness and moral sensibilities. “Not likely, Mr. Lewis. I think you like yourself well enough for both for us.” “Come, now. You wouldn’t make me celebrate alone, would you?” “I’m sure you have a flock of admirers who would love to join you for ice cream.” He laughed. “Maybe. But I don’t want a flock of admirers.” He leaned closer, so that the spicy scent of his cologne wrapped around her. “Just one.” He winked again, and Clara glowered. “I would say I’m sorry to disappoint you, Mr. Lewis, but then I would be lying.” “I like a challenge, Miss Jensen. And I always win.” “So do I,” Clara said. “Almost,” Reed amended, and before Clara really could smack him, he added, “Are you waiting for your brother to start your car? I can do that for you.” Clara pushed past him, grabbed the crank, and gave a vicious upward jerk, kicking the engine to life. She climbed in, slammed the door, and scooted behind the wheel. Reed folded his arms and grinned and she drove away. She almost thought the look he gave her was admiration, but that made no sense. She wouldn’t waste time worrying about it. She wouldn’t give Reed Lewis the satisfaction. MEET THE AUTHORS E.B. Wheeler attended BYU, majoring in history with an English minor, and earned graduate degrees in history and landscape architecture from Utah State University. She's the award-winning author of The Haunting of Springett Hall , Born to Treason , and No Peace with the Dawn, as well as several short stories, magazine articles, and scripts for educational software programs. She was named the 2016 Writer of the Year by the League of Utah Writers. In addition to writing, she consults about historic preservation and teaches history at USU. She lives in northern Utah with her family. Jeff Bateman served in the U.S. Air Force for 32 years, retiring as a Colonel in 2010. He holds a BA and MS in Criminal Justice, an MA in History and an MS in Strategic Studies. Following his military career, Jeff worked as a civilian historian at the Air Force Research Laboratory and the Air Force Flight Test Center. He teaches American Military History and U.S. Institutions at Utah State University and is a member of the League of Utah Writers. He has taught workshops on military writing. Jeff lives on a mini-farm in the mountains of Northern Utah, where horses, gardening, and playing the bass fill every minute he is not writing or teaching. This guest author posting is part of a blog tour coordinated by the publisher, Cedar Fort, Inc. BOOK INFO Print Length: 304 pages Publisher: Cedar Fort, Inc. Publication Date: November 8, 2016 #BlogTour #AuthorInterview #ExcerptPost #HistoricalFiction #WorldWarINovel

New York Times bestselling author Jill Shalvis returns to Heartbreaker Bay with a fun and festive holiday novella! It’s Christmas Eve and Rory Andrews is desperate to get home to the family she hasn’t seen in years. Problem is, her only ride to Lake Tahoe comes in the form of the annoyingly handsome Max Stranton, and his big, goofy, lovable dog Carl. Hours stuck in a truck with the dead sexy Max sounds like a fate worse than death (not), but Rory’s out of options. She’s had a crush on Max since high school and she knows he’s attracted to her, too. But they have history… and Max is the only one who knows why it went south. They’ve done a good job of ignoring their chemistry so far, but a long road trip in a massive blizzard might be just what they need to face their past… and one steamy, snowy night is all it takes to bring Max and Rory together at last. Series: Heartbreaker Bay | 160 Pgs. | Heat Level: 3 | Avon Impulse | Nov. 8, 2016 Amazon | B & N | Google Play | iTunes | Kobo ENJOY AN EXCERPT FROM One Snowy Night Share: Tweet | Post to Facebook Christmas Eve had the nerve to show up just like it did every year: way too quickly and with ridiculous fanfare. The nerve. Rory Andrews stood in the courtyard of the Pacific Pier Building in San Francisco, surrounded by sparkly holiday lights and enough garlands to give the place its own ozone, and told herself things could be worse. She just wasn’t sure how. It was the unknown, she decided. Because this year, unlike the past six, she’d be spending Christmas with her family, a thought that caused a swarm of butterflies to take flight in her belly. Not an uncommon feeling since she’d turned twenty-three a few months back and decided it was time to become a person she could be proud of if it killed her. And given the guy leaning against one of the lamp poles clearly waiting for her, arms crossed, frown in place, it just might. Max Stranton. At his side sat Carl, his huge, eternally hungry, adorable Doberman. “No,” she said, not to Carl but to Carl’s owner. Who was not lovable. “No way.” As always when their gazes locked, Max’s was a disconcerting mix of heat and . . . something else that she couldn’t quite figure out, as he was good at hiding when he wanted to be. She never quite knew how to take the heat because it seemed reluctant. He was attracted to her but didn’t want to be. Ditto. He made her knees wobble. And also a couple of other inner reactions that shouldn’t be happening in public. “Merry Christmas to you too, Rory,” he said, and damn. It wasn’t just his eyes. His voice was rough and sexy, and for that matter, so was the rest of him. He worked for an investigations and security firm in the building. Basically he and the rest of his team were fixers and finders for hire. To say that Max was good at his job was an understatement. He stood there looking like sex on a stick with a duffle bag slung over a broad shoulder, his dark hair two weeks past needing a cut, and the icy wind of an incoming storm plastering his clothes to a body that could be registered as a lethal weapon. “What are you doing here?” she asked calmly even if her heart was anything but, pounding all the way up to her throat and ears because she knew. She knew exactly why he was here. “I don’t need a ride home.” A flash of wry humor slid in with all that sizzling heat. “Because you’d rather take two buses and a train than get into my truck with me?” he asked. Well yes, actually. GIVEAWAY Enter below for a chance to win a print set of the first two Heartbreaker Bay Novels, SWEET LITTLE LIES and THE TROUBLE WITH MISTLETOE. Share: Tweet | Post to Facebook MEET THE AUTHOR New York Times bestselling author Jill Shalvis lives in a small town in the Sierras with her family and far too many assorted quirky characters. Any resemblance to the quirky characters in her books is, um, mostly coincidental. Look for Jill's latest, SWEET LITTLE LIES on shelves and e-readers now, and get all her bestselling, award-winning books wherever romances are sold. Visit Jill's website at www.jillshalvis.com for a complete book list and daily blog detailing her city-girl-living-in-the-mountains adventures. You may also connect with her on: Facebook | Twitter | GoodReads This feature is part of a virtual book tour coordinated by Tasty Book Tours . See the full tour schedule . #GuestAuthor #ChristmasBook #ContemporaryRomance #ExcerptPost

THE BOOK A READER'S OPINION Western romance with a dash of suspense! Dana Wayne is a new author for me, and I really enjoyed her contemporary romance Secrets of the Heart , which is her first book. What a beautiful surprise! I could not put it down! It's well written, romantic, and suspenseful with several charming characters, especially Tori, Wade, and Cody! You'll fall in love with them. I'm so happy to have discovered this new author and look forward for her next story! Secrets of the Heart tells the story of Tori, a young widow, who is bruised emotionally by the loss of her family. Feeling she needs to move on with her life, she accepts a job on a Montana ranch where Wade, a widower, needs help taking care of his own family. However, when Tori and Wade meet, sparks flare all over and their emotions are on a roll of ups-and-downs! Is there love in the Montana air? Will destiny reunite those two beautiful souls for a second chance? Can they be a perfect match? As they spend time together, their new friendship will bloom into a tender relationship. They do share a hot chemistry! When danger lurks around Tori and Wade's family, Wade will be there to protect them. What will happen next? This story is filled with suspense, twists and turns, mystery and romance with a spicy touch! Secrets of the Heart is really a page turner! Star Rating: 5 Stars | Content Rating : 5 Hearts | Reviewed by : Nicole Laverdure BUY AT AMAZON | VIE W OUR RATING SYSTEM BOOK SYNOPSIS Emotionally scarred by personal tragedy, Tori Morgan needs to get away from Houston and figure out what to do with her life. Seeking refuge and time to think, she accepts a position at a remote ranch in Montana. Firmly convinced love happens once in a lifetime, she resigns herself to being alone. Her new boss is the first complication in her plan. Mesmerized by his voice on the phone, she anticipates their first meeting with a mixture of anticipation and dread. Wade needed a nurse for his mother but got more than he bargained for in Tori. She was a breath of fresh air in world full of crap. Pretending to be in love with her seemed like a good idea at the time. The plan started out easy enough, even as they try to ignore the instant, heady desire percolating between them, unaware of danger watching from the shadows. The test kiss changed everything. Once was not enough for Wade. Every inch of him craved more. But it isn’t real, it’s pretend. Right? Format Read : E-Book | Source: Provided by the author or publisher. VIEW FTC DISCLAIMER REGARDING BOOK REVIEWS Receive our weekly roundup of posts, reviews, interviews, and special deals directly in your inbox. Delivered once a week—no spam . #AReadersOpinion #ContemporaryRomance

It is with great pleasure to welcome the talented Catherine Coulter to Books & Benches. I've been a long-time fan of Coulter's work. The first book I read of hers was The Maze . Once finished, I immediately read The Cove , and have devoured every FBI thriller since. I've also had the pleasure of reading some of her historical romances, and enjoyed those with equal fervor. Catherine joins us today to answer a few questions for our readers. If you'd like to get to know Catherine better, her daily anecdotes and messages to readers on her Facebook page are worth following. Catherine's latest book, Insidious , is the impressive 20th stand-alone book in her FBI Thriller series. Q&A WITH CATHERINE COULTER Without further ado . . . MK: Your first FBI thriller, The Cove , was originally published in 1996. Since then, you have delighted readers with 20 exciting stand-alone novels in the series. What sparked your interest to write the first FBI thriller? What do you enjoy most about the genre? CATHERINE: There is so much serendipity in life. In 1995 I was at a family reunion and my sister walked up to me, said without preamble, “There’s this little town on the coast of Oregon called The Cove. They make the world’s greatest ice cream and bad stuff happens.” I went en pointe. At the time I was writing historical romances and romantic suspense, but this was hugely different. And that’s how it all started. The suspense thriller genre calls for sharp pacing, which means I have to make the reader turn those pages as fast as he/she can, which means I have to keep the tension high. Writing suspense thrillers turns you into a maniac, ask any author. MK: In your latest book, Insidious , Sherlock and Savich are back to “kicking butt and taking names.” We’re also introduced to Agent Cam Wittier and Detective Daniel Montoya with whom I immediately connected, though things didn't turn out with them as I expected (their story turned out better). How did these two fascinating characters come about? CATHERINE: Two smart, bright interesting people – to be honest, they simply come out of the back of my head, which sounds sort of scary, but there it is. And they didn’t connect, not in a romantic sense, which I found vastly interesting because here came Missy Devereaux, also out of the back of my head. Her personality sparkled, she lit up the world, and I knew Daniel was a goner. Sorry, Cam. Maybe on your next case. MK: You’ve also created a successful cross-over series called A Brit in the FBI , which has three books (another one out in March, 2017) and is written with J.T. Ellison. What inspired the cross-over? What do you enjoy most about collaborating with another author? CATHERINE: I woke up one day with Nicholas Drummond alive and well in my head and ready to rock and roll. I knew about his family in England, I even knew the butler’s name and character. What I couldn’t do, however, was write two big books a year. So I thought about Clive Cussler and how he has people writing for and with him, gave him a call and he told me his protocol, which I liked. I started reading suspense thriller writers, read a J.T. Ellison, and said this is my person. I think both of us are very lucky: we’re close, like family, really, and work well together. What a wondrous thing to have happen in my life. Because of J.T., Nicholas Drummond is alive and well and kicking international big butt. MK: From seeing the first book in print to the glowing reviews we all hope for, but worry we won’t get, authors experience a multitude of highs and lows throughout their careers. Up to this point, what has been one of your greatest joys or experiences as a writer? CATHERINE: I’ve had the luck of the Irish and I can’t even claim any Irish DNA – I think my biggest thrill was when my editor called me at 6:30 on a Thursday morning and told me Moonspun Magic had made the New York Times list. A moment in time I will never ever forget. Let me add that I was fortunate to work with Phyllis Gran at Putnam, one of the smartest, savviest, amazing publishers in the world. MK: You began your illustrious writing career penning historical romance, many of which I’m proud to say sit on my bookshelves. Do you find it challenging to write in two vastly different genres? What do you enjoy most about moving from present-day to the past? CATHERINE: Writing two such disparate genres, I’ve found, keeps my brain unconstipated. Both have their own challenges, their joys, and their hair-pulling. Thank you, Catherine, for spending time with our readers. It has been a pleasure, and I for one am looking forward to your next book in March 2017. INSIDIOUS A FBI Thriller Insidious is the twentieth thriller in #1 New York Times bestselling author Catherine Coulter's FBI series. FBI agents Savich and Sherlock must discover who is trying to murder Venus Rasmussen, a powerful, wealthy society icon. They soon find out that the danger may be closer than expected. Venus Rasmussen, a powerful woman who runs the international conglomerate Rasmussen Industries, believes someone is poisoning her. After Savich and Sherlock visit with her, someone attempts to shoot her in broad daylight. Who’s trying to kill her and why? A member of her rapacious family, or her grandson who’s been missing for ten years and suddenly reappears? Savich and Sherlock must peel away the layers to uncover the incredible truth about who would target Venus. Meanwhile, Special Agent Cam Wittier leaves Washington for Los Angeles to work with local Detective Daniel Montoya to lead the hunt for the Starlet Slasher, a serial killer who has cut the throats of five young actresses. When a sixth young actress is murdered, Cam comes to realize the truth might be closer than she’d ever want to believe. With breakneck speed and unexpected twists and turns, Coulter’s Insidious will leave you breathless until the shocking conclusion. READ AN EXCERPT Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Books-A-Million | IndieBound MEET THE AUTHOR Catherine Coulter is the New York Times bestselling author of 75 books. Her hugely popular FBI thrillers include The Cove , The Maze , The Target , The Edge , Riptide , Hemlock Bay , Eleventh Hour , Blindside , Blowout , Point Blank , Double Take , Tail Spin , Knockout , Whiplash , Split Second , Backfire , Bombshell , Power Play and Nemesis . She has a new international thriller series—A Brit in the FBI—co-written with JT Ellison. These include The Final Cut , The Lost Key and The End Game . Also now available is the first in her novella series, starring Grayson Sherbrooke (from the Sherbrooke historical romance series), titled The Strange Visitation at Wolffe Hall . Upcoming new releases! The 4th book in the Brit series, The Devil's Triangle , will be out early 2017. Coulter lives in northern California with her three thriller cats and her thriller husband. If you read just one of Coulter's FBI thrillers, she's got you, so prepare for eye strain and jumping at things that go bump in the night. Sign up for Catherine's Newsletter | Catherine's Website | Visit her on Facebook #AuthorInterview #MysteryThriller #HistoricalRomance

THE BOOK Legend of the King's Guard, Book 1 A READER'S OPINION Conquered Heart offers fast-paced action and a glimpse into Scotland's struggle for independence during the time of Robert the Bruce. The story and characters are engaging and interesting. I don't often like both hero and heroine equally in medieval romance, but Graeme Cameron and Kerrigan Campbell are both worthy and appealing. The story started slowly for me, and the writing felt labored at times, but the story offers up a lot of intrigue, passion, seduction, and even some tenderness. I found myself siding with the Graeme and Kerrigan when others would punish them, and I rooted for them every step of the way. While I felt the writing could have used a little more polish in some places, I very much enjoyed my time with Graeme, Kerrigan, and the cast of fascinating secondary characters. There are some expected elements such as though found in many medieval romance, but the author had enough twists and turns and pleasant characters to make it unique. This is the first book I've read by Kara Griffin and I look forward to reading book two in the Legend of the King's Guard series. Star Rating: 4 Stars | Content Rating : 5 Hearts | Reviewed by : Kaylie Morgan BUY AT AMAZON | VIE W OUR RATING SYSTEM BOOK SYNOPSIS In protecting the King of Scotland, Graeme Cameron will do whatever it takes to ensure Robert the Bruce’s safety. He and his comrades become the victim of circumstance and are now exiled. As they hide, they realize others are worse off than they and hire themselves out as mercenaries. Kerrigan Campbell is desperate to find her laird and protector’s son. Then she hears of the legendary king’s guard and seeks them out. She runs across their leader in the midst of a battle, but he’s not what she expects. When she and Graeme find an abandoned bairn, he bids her to help him locate its mother and in return he’ll recapture her laird’s son. Graeme has many a challenge before him – how to keep he and his friends from being executed for doing their duty, aiding the sweet lass in recovering her charge, finding the bairn’s mother, helping their king defeat England’s army, and gaining a pardon for their involvement in the king’s misdoings. There’s one challenge that thwarts him and that’s Kerrigan. She’s conquered his heart, and more. Format Read : E-Book | Source: Provided by the author or publisher. VIEW FTC DISCLAIMER REGARDING BOOK REVIEWS Receive our weekly roundup of posts, reviews, interviews, and special deals directly in your inbox. Delivered once a week—no spam . #AReadersOpinion #MedievalRomance

Please join us in welcoming author Joyce Strand to Books & Benches. Strand writes who-done-it contemporary and historical mysteries set in California, all of which are inspired by actual events. She is the author of the Jillian Hillcrest Mysteries and Brynn Bancroft Mysteries. OVERCAST SUNSET A Brynn Bancroft Mystery Brynn Bancroft’s enjoyment at running her former husband’s winery is overcast by a rash of troubling burglaries and her inability to reconnect with her ex. When she receives an urgent phone call from an old college friend, she welcomes the interruption. Unfortunately, her friend’s business activities intrude on her routine. Then her ex-husband threatens her marriage hopes when he considers selling the winery. When the burglaries escalate, a sense of foreboding plagues her, hinting at trouble to come. AMAZON | B&N "I felt like the characters in this book were RIGHT IN FRONT of me.. They were so real. It's been a LONG time since I have read a book where the characters were that real. I had no idea who committed the murder, and I was guessing from the very beginning. This book was awesome." —Amazon Reviewer on Landscape for Murder Q&A WITH JOYCE STRAND You’re the author of eight contemporary and historical fiction novels. Do you have a preference for writing in the past or present? What led you to write in differing genres? Writing contemporary or historical novels offers different opportunities for spinning a mystery. I enjoy both with a slight preference for my historical mysteries. First, I like researching my books—either contemporary or historical—and get carried away learning new things that I don’t ever use. Regardless of time period, I use the setting to augment the plot. For example, in my just-released contemporary mystery, Overcast Sunset, recent crimes in the wine-making industry provide a rich background to weave into the life of my character Brynn Bancroft, co-owner of a winery in Sonoma. For both historical and contemporary books I start with my characters. Learning about how they would have lived in the past adds a dimension to my interest and to the story. I use the setting and time period to enhance the mystery. For example, in The Reporter’s Story, my heroine had to travel around 1912 San Francisco in a combination of cable car and electric trams, and occasionally in an early automobile. I exploited the idiosyncrasies of these modes of transportation to entangle my heroine in the puzzle. When I first started writing my mysteries, I assumed they would all be contemporary based on my characters. However, one day when talking with a friend he mentioned that his family had uncovered a memoir by his grandfather, who, he said, was a law partner in Ventura, Calif. of an author I might know—Erle Stanley Gardner. Of course, being an avid reader of mysteries, I knew the creator of Perry Mason. I asked for a copy of the memoir and became fascinated with my friend’s grandfather who eventually became a California Superior Court Judge. That interest resulted in my first historical mystery, The Judge’s Story, a mystery featuring a judge in 1939 Ventura, Calif. I enjoyed researching and writing it so much that I went on to then research and write The Reporter’s Story . Your star character in the Brynn Bancroft mysteries came about from your Jillian Hillcrest mysteries. What was it about Brynn that inspired you to write a new series? What is one of Brynn’s best traits? Worst? Brynn was a minor character in the first three mysteries that featured Jillian Hillcrest as the heroine-sleuth. She was Jillian’s boss and a Chief Financial Officer at a small biotech company. In the early books she was having an affair with the Chief Executive Officer. Her affair was discovered by the CEO’s wife and by Brynn’s husband. We learn that she has strayed. After 15 years of marriage her husband asks for a divorce. She was not particularly likeable. When I started the Jillian Hillcrest mysteries, I planned to write three and then spin off a character for the next three. I wasn’t sure at the time which character I would choose. However, I had several readers who expressed interest in learning more about Brynn. I was concerned about featuring her because she was not particularly likeable, but the more I got to know her, the more interesting she became. We find out that her inability to feel emotions was caused by an abusive childhood. Her husband was aware of this and tried his best to help her—but finally gave up. Hillcrest Sunset is the first mystery featuring Brynn as the sleuth-heroine. It was challenging to transition her to become a caring and engaging person, but she begins to face her past and starts to exhibit more personable characteristics. She is a strong person and applies herself in interesting ways to become an able and engaging sleuth and by the time we get to Overcast Sunset she is well on her way to overcoming her past. Overcast Sunset is your third Brynn Bancroft mystery. In your own words, can you give us a sneak peek at what this book is about and what readers can expect from Brynn? The book opens with Brynn at a meeting listening to the latest details of chronic thefts in the Sonoma Valley wine country. She is grateful to have received an urgent call from an old college friend that morning and relieved to leave the meeting early to meet her. Unfortunately when she returns to the winery, she finds her ex-husband—who co-owns the winery she manages—has arrived with news that he wants to sell the winery. Brynn has come to realize that her ex is an extraordinary person and had hoped to win him back. His interest in selling the winery threatens her efforts. The repeated burglaries and the reduced hope for a reconciliation combine with the business activities of her college friend to lead Brynn to anticipate a troublesome near future—which turns out to unfold even worse than she imagines. What is your favorite scene in Overcast Sunset ? As a reader and author of mysteries, I cannot reveal elements of the plot. However, I will say that I most enjoy the developing relationship between Brynn and her ex. There is one scene in particular that I like, but I cannot reveal it! Now we simply have to read it to discover the mystery for ourselves! What are you working on next, and will there be more in the Bancroft mystery series? Overcast Sunset is the final of the three Brynn Bancroft mysteries. I am currently working on the next contemporary mystery to be published in November 2017. I am spinning off a character from the Brynn books—Emma Lazarro—and re-locating the setting to southern California. The town of Ramona offers both mystery and a unique background. I have already started building the biography of the heroine-sleuth. Because this is a new trilogy requiring additional research time, I will not be publishing an historical mystery in 2017. That's more than all right because readers have plenty of books to choose from your currently available mysteries! MEET THE AUTHOR Joyce T. Strand is the author of who-done-it contemporary and historical mysteries set in California. All of her published seven novels are inspired by actual events and/or real people, although they are definitely fictionalized. Strand headed corporate communications at several biotech and high-tech companies in California's Silicon Valley for more than 25 years. Unlike her protagonist Jillian Hillcrest, however, she did not encounter murder in her career. Strand lives with her cat and collection of cow statuary in Southern California, and enjoys exploring and writing about the growing wine region in the Ramona Valley near San Diego. Visit the author at joycestrand.com . You may also connect with her on Facebook and Twitter . #AuthorInterview #MysteryThriller

THE BOOK The Wild Geese Series A READER'S OPINION A masterpiece of an Irish tale! If you believe in Christmas magic, then Kathleen's Mirror will please you! Cynthia Owens is a talented storyteller, and she never disappoints me. I can also mention that she has outdone herself with this 5th touching story! The Wild Geese series tells the story of Irish young men forced to leave Ireland during the great famine and start a new life in America. In each story we follow one of them, their family and friends, and also the women who will enter their lives. The parallel between the life journey of Nuala and Braden and the tale of the magic mirror adds a fantastic and mysterious touch without breaking the pace of the story! This author really wrote a touching and heartwarming Irish romance! Get ready to go on a roller coaster ride of emotions! Some scenes are very emotional and you might shed a tear or two. Let's start at the beginning! Nuala, Roisin's sister whom we met in the 3rd story, My Dark Rose , had learned what poverty was, but now as a young woman she only dreams of marrying a wealthy man. Will she realize what love is all about? While Braden, Nuala's brother and Joe's best friend, feels responsible for failing his family. To redeem himself, he needed to find his lost sister Mary. Will he find her? Who is she? Let's say that Nuala and Braden's relationship is very complex. He always loved her, but felt he wasn't ready to marry yet, while Nuala was afraid to love someone, fearing loosing him later on. As time is spent together during their journey of ups and downs, they will discover the meaning of true love, trust, hope, and family ties. Loved the secondary characters, like Mary! Will fate and the magic of Christmas reunite these two beautiful souls who are afraid of love? The Wild Geese series is a must to read! I highly recommend Cynthia Owens’s books! Give her books a chance, you won’t regret it! Star Rating: 5 Stars | Content Rating : 3 Hearts | Reviewed by : Nicole Laverdure COMING SOON! | VIEW OUR RATING SYSTEM BOOK SYNOPSIS Look into Kathleen’s mirror… Brought up in poverty, Nuala Donavan dreamed of finding a wealthy man to take her away from her ordinary life and shower her with luxury. Love was definitely not part of her plan. …and take a chance on love… Braden MacGuire has been crushed by the knowledge that most of his family died because of him. His only goal has been to find the little sister who disappeared into the mean streets of New York…until he falls desperately in love with a beautiful, vulnerable red-haired lass. Can an enchanted mirror, an ancient carved brooch, and the magic of Christmas bring these two together? Format Read : E-Book | Source: Provided by the author or publisher. VIEW FTC DISCLAIMER REGARDING BOOK REVIEWS Receive our weekly roundup of posts, reviews, interviews, and special deals directly in your inbox. Delivered once a week—no spam . #AReadersOpinion #ChristmasBook #HistoricalRomance

THE BOOK The Mackay Saga A READER'S OPINION Highland Yearning transports the reader and Ariel Sutherland to eighteenth-century Scotland, with the help of a magical object, where she meets Caden Mackay, a handsome and vigorous Highlander. I had not read the first book in this series but it does stand completely on its own. Caden and Ariel are both enjoyable characters and Caden is charming in many ways. We get to experience their struggles, their worries and their passions all while Ariel struggles to find a way back to her own time. It's a very typical Highland time-travel story that compares to many in the genre. It's an entertaining story and I like how Ariel's dog traveled back in time with her; it was a nice touch. Highland Yearning is certain to be enjoyed by fans of Highland time-travel romance. Star Rating: 3 1/2 Stars | Content Rating : 4 1/2 Hearts | Reviewed by : Kaylie Morgan BUY AT AMAZON | VIEW OUR RATING SYSTEM BOOK SYNOPSIS Caden Mackay would never bed a Sutherland, let alone marry one. Bloody hell, what had possessed his twin brother to propose to one of the she-devils? And what is Caden to do with the Sutherland beauty who appears, as if by magic, in his library? The defiant intruder is the enemy, but she is unlike any woman Caden’s ever known, and her tantalizing curves and wide green eyes could tempt a monk. He must devise a way to stop the wedding. But can he stop the desire that makes him long to make Ariel Sutherland his own? Ariel’s life had never gone the way she’d hoped, but ending up in eighteenth century Scotland was a stretch, even for her. If not for her dog, Scruffy, she might have thought she’d walked into a romantic daydream. Especially since the object of her desire appears to be entirely too virile. But can she find her way back to her time, before her too-handsome Highlander makes her believe that love can conquer in any century? Print Length: 227 pages Publisher: Soul Mate Publishing LLC Publication Date: July 20, 2016 Format Read : E-Book | Source: Provided by the author or publisher. VIEW FTC DISCLAIMER REGARDING BOOK REVIEWS Receive our weekly roundup of posts, reviews, interviews, and special deals directly in your inbox. Delivered once a week—no spam . #AReadersOpinion #HighlandRomance

THE BOOK The Color of Heaven Series (A Standalone Holiday Novel) A READER'S OPINION The Color of a Christmas Miracle is a touching story about overcoming hardship and loss, and finding a way back to hope. I had not read any of Julianne MacLean's "Color of Heaven" series before, and this truly is a standalone novel. The author has a unique writing style. I don't normally enjoy reading first person books, but MacLean has a talent for it. Claire Radcliffe suffers greatly, which is a shame because she's the type of person who deserves every happiness. She had far too much drama for my tastes in the first half of the book, and I felt like I was invading someone's diary of private notes to the point of being uncomfortable. Then, in the second half of the book, Claire redeemed herself. I wanted her to have the happy ending and blessed miracle she deserved, and I ended up liking her very much. She doesn't have an easy journey, but when it's obvious she won't have to go through any of the hardships alone, the story became truly touching and moving. Claire Radcliffe could teach people a thing or two about forgiveness. A clean and tender story, The Color of a Christmas Miracle is sure to be enjoyed by many. Star Rating: 4 Stars | Content Rating : 2 Hearts | Reviewed by : Kaylie Morgan BUY AT AMAZON | VIEW OUR RATING SYSTEM BOOK SYNOPSIS From USA Today bestselling author Julianne MacLean comes a new standalone contemporary romance in the bestselling Color of Heaven Series, where people are affected by real life magic and miracles that change everything they once believed about life and love. Claire Radcliffe has been blessed with a wonderful life—a loving husband, a fulfilling career as a schoolteacher, and a perfect house in a charming historic neighborhood. But with each Christmas that passes, the one thing she longs for most of all continues to elude her, and before long, her life doesn’t seem so perfect anymore. When yet another holiday season approaches and her marriage suffers the worst possible blow, Claire must learn to have faith in destiny, and allow herself to believe that miracles can happen to anyone—especially at Christmastime. Heartwarming and inspiring, The Color of a Christmas Miracle is the tale of one woman’s journey to find happiness, and to learn the power of forgiveness and redemption on the path to true love. Format Read : E-Book | Source: Provided by the author or publisher. VIEW FTC DISCLAIMER REGARDING BOOK REVIEWS Receive our weekly roundup of posts, reviews, interviews, and special deals directly in your inbox. Delivered once a week—no spam . #AReadersOpinion #ChristmasBook #ContemporaryRomance

My Ghosts by Verna Cole Mitchell They climb down from the ceiling. They dance along the walls. They peer in through the windows. They tiptoe through the halls. While some have voices muted, Some talk too noisily. While some words they speak sadly, Some they shout out with glee. They come into the dining room For meals around the table. They snack while going through the house Whenever they are able. I even find them sleeping In cradle or in bed. They also sprawl on couches Or on the floor instead. They sit and play Monopoly And other kinds of games. Although they’re not permitted to, They call each other names. They run on Christmas morning, Excitedly with joy, To see if Santa came last night And brought a special toy. They gather all together For family devotions. They share their hopes and fears and dreams With varying emotions. When I try to hold on to them, They sometimes glide away. I fear that as years pass me by, They’ll slowly fade to gray. They aren’t ordinary ghosts, But ghosts of memory, My little children growing up— So dear they are to me. Find Verna Cole Mitchell's books of poetry on Amazon . #Poetry #ThePoetsNook

THE BOOK A Regency Novella | Connected by a Kiss, Book 2 A READER'S OPINION Can a hoyden tempt a Rogue to a life altering kiss? Lady Natalie is the privileged daughter of the Duke of Sheriden. A hoyden by nature, she is kept in line by the strict rules of society and the ever watchful eye of her mother. Unknown to her, the Duke has betrothed her to the son of a Marquis and her father's business associate . . . Lord Maddox. She believes her future holds nothing but heartache since the time she caught her best friend Lady Pipa in a tryst with the only man that held her heart, the Marquis of Knightly! Knightly always saw Lady Natalie as nothing more than the troublesome little sister of his best friend. She was always underfoot causing trouble for them! All that changed when they shared one glorious kiss that forever haunts him with the scorching feelings it brought forth . . . now she's all he can think of! Her impending betrothal has him tied up in knots. Everywhere he turns she's there, taunting him with a look and her boldness. Never wanting to be caught in the parson's trap, he always stayed clear of virginal misses and their mothers; widows and loose women were more his style, thank you very much. But for the life of him he doesn't know what's come over him. He wants her . . . but at what cost? Her parents would never agree to a scoundrel like him! Will he be able to come to terms with the way he feels for Lady Natalie and fight for her heart? Can the Christmas spirit bring what their hearts desire? Or will he run from what could be the love of his life? This is a wonderful story of love and taking a chance to make your dreams come true. Amanda Mariel portrays the feelings of a young woman that has to follow her parents' strict rules of a dutiful daughter and succumbing to their wishes, and the gift of Christmas— granting to all what their hearts desire! Star Rating: 4 1/2 Stars | Content Rating : 1 Heart | Reviewed by : Maria Rose Dariotis BUY AT AMAZON | VIEW OUR RATING SYSTEM BOOK SYNOPSIS A misunderstanding that wounds the bonds of friendship leads a lady to find the love of her life. Lady Natalie's betrothal is ended and frees her to pursue the man of her dreams. During a holiday party she discovers the lord she desires in attendance. So hatches a plan to snare him. Lord Christian St. Vella the Marquis of Knightly has no desire to marry. The more Lady Natalie chases the more irritated he becomes. As the party progresses he cannot help but see past her shallow exterior and recognizes a lady he could fall for. Will they come together to share a unforgettable Christmastide? Print Length: 101 pages Publication Date: November 1, 2016 Format Read : E-Book | Source: Provided by the author or publisher. VIEW FTC DISCLAIMER REGARDING BOOK REVIEWS Receive our weekly roundup of posts, reviews, interviews, and special deals directly in your inbox. Delivered once a week—no spam . #AReadersOpinion #RegencyRomance #412Stars #HistoricalRomance #ReviewersTopPick

THE BOOK A Scandalous Kisses Novel A READER'S OPINION A real page turner! Emotionally suspenseful Regency novel! Barbara Monajem is a new author for me. Therefore, I didn't know what to expect of her book, Love and the Shameless Lady . What a beautiful surprise! Now I know for sure that I'll check her next book! This novel has a plot so intriguing that I kept turning page after page, and it kept my interest until the end. It's a wonderful historical tale filled with suspense, emotion, humor, and of course romance. This author did not disappoint me! It tells the story of Daisy and Julian. Daisy, a disgraced lady, is resigned to work at a inn during the day while at night, writes romantic stories with a spicy touch! Julian is the perfect gentleman, and a scholar excelling in espionage. While investigating to find smugglers, he meets Daisy and soon becomes very intrigued by this mysterious woman. When he discovers that her life is being threatened, he will try to protect her by gaining her trust. Is the death threat that Daisy received related to the stories she wrote? As time goes by, they will share secrets that will create a stronger relationship that could bloom to love. Sparks flare all over! Some scenes sizzle! Beautiful chemistry between Daisy and Julian! I really enjoyed Love and the Shameless Lady ! I haven’t read her two previous stories in her Scandalous Kisses series. Can it be read as a standalone? Yes, definitely! I will surely watch her next books! Star Rating: 5 Stars | Content Rating : 5 Hearts | Reviewed by : Nicole Laverdure BUY AT AMAZON | VIEW OUR RATING SYSTEM BOOK SYNOPSIS Disgraced lady Daisy Warren serves ale in a tumbledown inn, sings crude songs for the smugglers, and writes romantic novels in her spare time. Shunned by her own class, she’s resigned to her lowly life—until someone tries to kill her. Gentleman spy Sir Julian Kerr noses out seditionists and traitors. When he visits the inn to investigate two suspicious Frenchmen, he meets the lovely but hostile Daisy. He doesn’t intend to get involved with her—but then he learns that someone is threatening her life. He wants to find out more—it’s part of his investigation. He wants to protect her—he’s a chivalrous man. He wants her. But will Daisy’s bitter past allow her to risk love again? Print Length: 248 pages Publisher: Soul Mate Publishing, LLC Publication Date: November 9, 2016 Format Read : E-Book | Source: Provided by the author or publisher. VIEW FTC DISCLAIMER REGARDING BOOK REVIEWS Receive our weekly roundup of posts, reviews, interviews, and special deals directly in your inbox. Delivered once a week—no spam . #AReadersOpinion #RegencyRomance #HistoricalRomance #5Stars