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THE BOOK Highlands' Lairds, Book One A READER'S OPINION Call me a sucker for a Highland romance because I love Julie Garwood's, The Secret . Iain and Judith are a wonderful pair. Two strong individuals with their own worries, ideas, and passions come together with great dialogue and sigh-worthy passion. Garwood breaks some so-called writing rules in a few of her earlier books, but I don't pay attention to them because I love the book. It's a feel-good story with a well-worn spine because it's been read numerous times. This is a highly recommended book for anyone who loves historical Highland romance. Star Rating: 5 Stars | Content Rating : 5 Hearts | Reviewed by : MK McClintock BUY AT AMAZON | VIEW OUR RATING SYSTEM BOOK SYNOPSIS Judith Hampton was as beautiful as she was proud and loyal. Her dear Scottish friend from childhood was about to give birth, and Judith had promised to be at her side. But there was another, private reason for the journey from her bleak English home to the Highlands: to meet the father she had never known, the Laird Maclean. Nothing prepared her, however, for the sight of the Scottish barbarian who was to escort her into his land...Iain Maitland, Laird of his clan, a man more powerfully compelling than any she had ever encountered. In a spirited clash of wills and customs, Judith reveled in the melting bliss of Iain's searching kisses, his passionate caresses. Perplexed by her sprightly defiance, bemused by her tender nature, Iain felt his soul growing into the light and warmth of her love. Surely nothing would wrench her from the affection and trust of Iain and his clan...not even the truth about her father, a devastating secret that could shatter the boldest alliance, and the most glorious of loves! ​ Publisher: Pocket Books Format Read : Mass Market Paperback | Source: From the reviewer's personal library. 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 #HistoricalRomance #HighlandRomance #5Stars

Please welcome author Dana Wayne to Books & Benches! Dana is visiting with us to share an excerpt from her debut novel, Secrets of the Heart , which has garnered many wonderful reviews. " Secrets of the Heart is one of those compelling and suspenseful stories where the reader can't help wait to see if the two main characters can finally succeed in overcoming the obstacles in their way." — Readers' Favorite Enjoy an Excerpt from Secrets of the Heart by Dana Wayne Her face flamed as an image of McBride lathered in whipped topping and chocolate syrup formed. “Oh my God, Sasha! Where on earth do you come up with this stuff?” She extended her arm, palm up. “Never mind. I don’t want to know.” “Trust me…one day you’ll thank me.” “No. I won’t. Besides, he has a lot on his plate with his sister and mother both ill and the ranch. He needs a nurse, not a lover.” “Says who?” “Sassy, please.” “I've said it before and I'll say it again; you were too good for Eddie.” She waved her hand back and forth to silence Tori's rebuke. “I know, I know, it's wrong to speak ill of the dead. He was a good cop, a decent father, but a crummy, cheating husband.” Tori sat on the edge of the bed and said nothing as her friend continued. “You’ve got the kindest heart of anyone I’ve ever known.” Sassy joined her on the bed, her smile reflective. ”I guess that explains why you put up with me all these years. And you have a capacity for caring I truly envy. It’s why you are such an awesome nurse. Well, that and the reasonably intelligent thing.” Tori snorted. Sassy would never change. Thank God. “I know you loved Eddie. I never understood why, but I know you did. But he’s gone, Tori. You need to let him go and love again.” “I…I don’t know if I can. Every time I think about moving on, of getting involved with someone, I feel guilty. Like I’m…betraying him. I know it sounds silly to you but it’s how I feel.” Sasha slid an arm around her shoulders and squeezed. “I don’t think it sounds silly at all. He was your husband and you loved him. But he’s gone.” She blew out a breath. “You’re my best friend in the whole world. I want you to be happy. I want to see your eyes smile again.” “I know you do. And I appreciate that.” She leaned her head on her friend’s shoulder. “I'm not interested in a relationship right now.” She sighed. “I don’t think I even remember how to kiss anymore so a relationship is out of the question.” Sasha looked at the picture and grinned. “Wanna bet? Besides, kissing is like riding a bike, once you do it, you don’t forget how.” She giggled. “And if you did, I’m bettin’ this cowboy is one hell of a teacher.” "What an awesome debut! Congrats to the first time author that hit a home run!" —Amazon Reviewer Secrets of the Heart Book Synopsis Nurse Tori Morgan needs to regroup following a personal tragedy. Seeking refuge, she accepts a position at a remote ranch in Montana. Firmly convinced love happens once in a lifetime, she resigns herself to being alone. And then she meets her new boss. Wade McBride is six feet four inches of man capped off with a potent sexuality that makes clear thinking difficult. To make matters worse, she discovers she must pretend to be his fiancé for the sake of her new patient. 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 starts out easy enough even as they try to ignore the instant attraction radiating between them, unaware of danger watching from the shadows. The test kiss changes everything. Once was not enough for Wade…but it isn’t real, it’s pretend. Right? Tori is convinced his mouth should be registered as a lethal weapon. Is she ready for this? Will she ever be ready? They dance around the elephant in the room until they have to ask themselves…what happens when make believe becomes real? Get Your Copy of Secrets of the Heart Amazon | B&N | BookBaby Content Rating: 4 Hearts Print Length: 246 pages Publisher: BookBaby; 1 edition Publication Date: June 21, 2016 Meet the Author Dana Wayne is a sixth generation Texan (or seventh depending on which relative you ask) and still lives there with her husband of 38 years (and counting) and a Calico cat named Katie. Three children and four grandchildren keep her life exciting and free time is devoted to classic car shows with her husband, tent camping and dutch oven cooking. She has written numerous poems, shorts stories, and newspaper articles as well as contributing to several writing group anthologies. Retiring in 2013, she focused on her first love, writing novels. Her debut novel, Secrets of the Heart , a contemporary romance, was a finalist in the 2016 ETWG First Chapter Contest and has garnered great reviews. She can be reached through her website at www.danawayne.com . #ExcerptPost #GuestAuthor

Highland Adventure Series, Book One A READER'S OPINION (Audiobook) A wonderful narration that brought the Highlands to life. The author made Scotland come to life and it's evident she knows the landscape because I felt like I was there. Laird Alasdair MacGrath is a wonderful character. There are times when I thought he didn't live up to my vision of a Highland warrior, but he was endearing in many ways. I liked how he had loved before and felt so strongly about his first love. He was willing to take in Gwyneth Carswell and her son despite not being able to get over his first wife. This is where I wished he would have found a way to let go and move. Gwyneth Carswell was not a character I found likeable. Her inability to make a wise decision at every turn became tiresome and I thought that Alasdair deserved much more. By the end of the story, I couldn't find one redeeming quality in Gwyneth but Alasdair made the time spent reading worthwhile. The author has a nice and easy writing style and does a marvelous job with the setting. The narrator was perfect for the story and I had no difficulty understanding his accent. I was pulled in by his smooth and wonderful voice. Reviewer's Rating : 4 Stars | Content Rating : 5 Hearts | Reviewed by : Kaylie Morgan BUY AT AMAZON | VIEW OUR RATING SYSTEM BOOK SYNOPSIS Gwyneth Carswell, an English lady banished by her father to the harsh Scottish Highlands, wants nothing more than to take her young son away from the violence of two fighting clans--her own distant kin, the MacIrwins, and their enemies, the MacGraths. She risks everything to rescue the fierce MacGrath warrior from the battlefield where he's left for dead by her clan. She only knows she is inexplicably drawn to him and he wants peace as she does. When her clan learns of her betrayal, they seek vengeance. Dare she trust the enemy more than her own family? Laird Alasdair MacGrath is driven to end two-hundred years of feuding with the MacIrwins. But by taking in and protecting Lady Gwyneth and her son, he provokes more attacks from his mortal enemy. As the danger and conflict surrounding them escalate, Alasdair and Gwyneth discover an explosive passion neither of them expected. With the arrival of a powerful man from her past, a horrible decision confronts her--give up her son or the man she loves. Written by: Vonda Sinclair Narrated by: Andrew Bryan Length: 10 hrs and 13 mins Series: Highland Adventure, Book 1 Format Read : Audiobook | Source: Provided by the author or publisher. VIEW FTC DISCLAIMER REGARDING BOOK REVIEWS #AReadersOpinion #Audiobooks #HighlandRomance

THE BOOK An FBI Thriller A READER'S OPINION The Maze is a fast-paced, thrilling adventure you won't want to miss. Lacey Sherlock and Dillon Savich are fascinating characters who play an integral role in the FBI thrillers. For those who started with book one, you've already met Savich, and boy am I glad Coulter decided this hunky hero was worthy of his own book and ongoing mysteries. Lacey has led a somewhat complicated and interesting life, which has culminated in joining the FBI and seeking revenge for her sister's murder. Lucky for her, she doesn't have to find justice on her own. Dillon is swoon-worthy, no doubt, but he's made up of all these wonderful layers, and as soon as you dig a little deeper, you realize just how great a guy he is. Together, Dillon and Lacey have some wild obstacles to overcome in order for Lacey to find peace and move on with her life. The Maze is worth the price of admission. Star Rating: 5 Stars | Content Rating : 4 1/2 Hearts | Reviewed by : MK McClintock BUY AT AMAZON | VIEW OUR RATING SYSTEM BOOK SYNOPSIS Lacey Sherlock's life is forever changed when her older sister's body is discovered in an abandoned warehouse. She is the fourth victim of the String Killer, the name given by the media to a murderer who leads his victims into a maze with a ball of twine. Seven years after Belinda's death, Lacey, now an FBI agent, is paired up with computer whiz Dillon Savich, who has developed a predictive program to aid in the apprehension of serial killers. When the String Killer strikes again, Lacey spots his handiwork, resulting in his capture. The suspect confesses, but maintains that he did not kill Belinda. No sooner does Lacey confirm his innocence of that crime, than an attempt is made on her life. Suspecting her attacker is the same person who murdered her sister, Lacey and Dillon know they must solve the mystery―before they become the killer's next victims. Series: An FBI Thriller (Book 2) Mass Market Paperback: 352 pages Publisher: Jove (April 1, 1998) Format Read : Mass Market Paperback | Source: From the reviewer's personal library. 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 #ContemporaryRomanticSuspense

Please join us in welcoming author Nancy Fraser from Canada to Books & Benches for an interview. Annette is a Romance Review Readers’ Choice nominee and author of Moving On and Woman of Substance . "Every reader of Annette Bower's powerful, third prairie romance will fall for Will, a challenged and challenging idealist and Tiffany, a plumber and sculptor torn between duty and desire. Their destinies merge, seem to part, then come together again in a story as old as the horizon yet as fresh as the crocus lifting its head beneath a young sun." — Byrna Barclay Q&A with Annette Bower What can you tell us about your latest release? On August 3, 2016 I happy danced when Fearless Destiny published by Soul Mate Publishing appeared on the virtual book shelves. Close to Christmas, I will have an added thrill of opening a box of print books. When I thought about writing this book I wanted a heroine who had chosen a different career. Tiffany working along side of her father as the owner of the family plumbing business came to me. Past assumptions have been that sons would follow in the family business however Tiffany’s younger brother has asthma so he would not be able to work beside Dad. Even though the story is set today, women working in a male field are considered unusual. Tiffany’s childhood sweetheart decided he didn’t want a wife who came home with odors associated with plumbing. After the breakup, business was slow and her parents decided that she could be spared from the business and explore her artistic side, because Tiffany had always used scraps of metal and created sculptors. Tiffany revels in her independence and growth in her artistic talents. She’s on her way home to share good news about a mural commission with her parents and have a short rest before she returns to Winnipeg to begin using this old artistic method in a new way. Of course this is when things change again. Tiffany meets Will Cleaver who becomes her mentor about life. What are three things people may not know about you? Although I always wrote, I was afraid to believe I could be a writer because I couldn’t spell my way out of a paper bag. Nor do I understand grammar mechanics. Finally, after computers were invented with spell check and I realized I could hire editors my fledging confidence grew. I spent a day at a potash solution mine as research for Fearless Destiny . I’m pale in this picture because it was at the end of the tour and I almost fainted from the heat. My handsome guide almost had to do the fireman carry up a few flights of stairs. I have never cooked a turkey. My husband enjoys cooking so I’ve allowed him to develop those talents without encroaching on the kitchen territory. I can set a mean table. Do you consider your books plot-driven or character-driven? I consider my books character-driven. Even though in my romance novels there is a Happy-ever-after, I find my characters first. I need to know them well and what their growth will be. In Woman of Substance, Robbie needs to understand other women’s daily life. There are many different body shapes and the person in them is worth knowing. In Moving On, Anna needs to find her way out of grief and back into a world with a future love. And in Fearless Destiny, Tiffany needs to learn to put her needs as an artist first, even though all of her life she has been, someone’s daughter, sister, friend, fiancé, she is discovering that she is a person. What is your favorite non-writing pastime? I have two favorite pastimes. One at home and that is walking around my city and discovering new areas to me, or driving to a town and watching people in their communities. My second is travelling and doing the same, walking around the city and watching people in their communities. The problem with this is that I am directionally challenged and end up discovering new areas by mistake. More than likely not where I wanted to go but enjoyable anyway. Recently, I went to visit my cousin on her farm. I had specific directions and instead of putting the information in my GPS, I decided to go the old fashion way with a map with highlighted highways and directions of where to turn on grid roads. I ended up lost in a town without cell service. I drove with my arm out the window looking for service so I could text my cousin and ask how to find my way. She said, “Stay where you are, I’m coming to get you.” This is the village I found myself in. "This is a beautifully written love story. I have a vivid picture of the characters in my head. I love the way the author makes you reflect on larger social issues – the challenge of living with a disability, the consequence of industrial progress on a small community – while taking you on a heart-warming journey. Would be a wonderful book club book." — Amazon Reviewer Fearless Destiny From the Romance Review Readers’ Choice nominee, Annette Bower, comes a new small-town romance, Fearless Destiny . Tiffany George, riding high on her commission as a fresco artist, returns home for some deserved rest and relaxation. The drive proves uneventful until she rescues Will Cleaver on the side of a highway. While savoring memories of a kiss and a well-formed butt, her future goals do not include a romance. Once in town, she discovers the hopes and dreams of her community hinge on the development of a new resource mine and Will’s designed neighborhood. Her parents demand she give up art and resume her working partner role in the family business. Tiffany finds herself pulled by her community roots and stretched by her newly discovered independence. Will knows about taking charge of destiny. He models the courage she uses to become the woman she needs to be. GET THE BOOK The Author Annette Bower’s day-to-day experiences as a nurse, administrator, town councillor, teacher’s assistant and student means that her stories are the real thing because they are about you and your neighbors. Her short stories and novels are read around the world. Her romance novels are set in Saskatchewan because she believes home is as enticing as anywhere else in the wide world she has visited. Visit the author at www.annettebower.com . #AuthorInterview #ContemporaryRomance

Please join us in welcoming author Nancy Fraser from Canada to Books & Benches for an interview. Nancy is the award-winning author of twenty-one published works and it sounds like there's many more to come! "Want more to read just like this! Love books that touch you for days after your done reading!" —Amazon Reviewer on Home is Where the Hunk is Let's hear from the author . . . In 250 words or less, what can you tell us about your newest release? Eye of the Pharaoh is my second venture into time travel and one I knew I was destined to write. My love for Egyptian history began many years ago at the Field Museum in Chicago. Their Inside Ancient Egypt exhibit screamed “write me and make it a romance." My goal in creating Dr. Joshua Cain, Professor of Archaeology, was that he’d be a modern version of all the movie archetypes from Indiana Jones to The Mummy. In Eye of the Pharaoh , Dr. Cain spouts facts with the ease of a confident educator. With the exception of the fictitious Anukehaten, guardian of the Queen-Pharaoh Hatshepsut’s tomb, and the ancient curse of the pink stone, all historical references shared by Dr. Cain are accurate depictions of Egyptian culture and history. My goal for my heroine, Teri Hunter, was to create an attractive, equally intelligent professional with some quirky habits. Teri is a walking motivational quote, often dredging up one of those commonplace office posters when she needs a bit of emotional reinforcement. She’s even taken her personal mantra from one of her favorites: Wake Up. Kick Ass. Repeat. She’s often heard quoting the likes of First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt, author/clothing designer Donna Karan, comedian Louis C.K., and even Albert Einstein. My personal favorite comes from author Mason Cooley: "Romance is tempestuous. Love is calm." It’s a mantra I strive for when creating every happily-ever-after. Two complete opposites, Teri and Josh enter into an adventure of a lifetime. What story are you working on next, and what inspired you? I’m currently in the middle of a story for the new historical series from The Wild Rose Press. The series is called “Stranded” and, just as it sounds, the story must place the hero and heroine in a position of being cut off from others and surviving on their own. My story, Waking Up in Oz , is a 1970’s retooling of the Wizard of Oz. My inspiration came from the publisher’s submission call itself. I kept running ideas through my head and it finally came to me. The “ultimate” case of being stranded ... Dorothy in Oz. I began plotting from there. I have a heroine named Dorothy Gail Farmer, and a storm-chaser hero dubbed "The Wizard" because of his ability to project the path of a hurricane. Even my antagonist, Evelyn Witcher, takes her evil cue from the movie. I’m about halfway through the first draft and loving it so far. Do you consider your books plot-driven or character-driven? Is that how you naturally write, or is there a purpose for what you choose? Most often, I’m character driven. I know I want to write a story about a certain type of heroine and match her up with an equally strong hero. Most of the books I write are based on submission calls from one of my four publishers. So, often, the plot is chosen for me. I then tweak the characters I’ve chosen to fit the needs of the story. Life will occasionally intervene, as it did with my 2014 award-winning romance, Home is Where the Hunk is . The idea for the book came from someone I’d met in real life. Her backstory gave me the perfect plot for a very unusual twist on the secret baby trope. I had no idea who my heroine was or who the hero was. I just knew I had to tell this story in a loving and romantic way. What is your favorite scene in Eye of the Pharaoh ? If I had to pick just one, I’d say it’s the scene where my hero and heroine realize they’ve traveled through time and distance. Wake up. Kick . . . to hell with it . . . just wake up! She stretched out her hand and poked Josh in the chest, certain he was nothing more than a dream, an apparition. When her fingers met solid muscle, she told him, “Pinch me. I need to wake up.” “I’m not a figment of your imagination and you’re not asleep.” Withdrawing the pink stone from his pocket, he held it up to the waning sunlight. “Somehow, we’ve been brought here, and it must have something to do with this stone.” “You mean we’ve traveled halfway around the world by the power of a three-thousand-year-old, possibly cursed, jewel?” “It would seem so, although I’m not quite ready to make such an outlandish assumption. At least not without a bit more research.” He paused, turning full circle, stopping every so often to study their surroundings. “If I’m gauging the landscape correctly, we’ve not only traveled across miles, we’ve traveled through time.” She shook her head, unwilling to accept either possibility. “I’m as a big fan of H.G. Wells as the next person,” she admitted, “but there’s no such thing as time travel.” When Josh didn’t comment, she asked, “Is there?” You're quite a prolific author. What else have you written? Eye of the Pharaoh is my twenty-first published book. I have another four scheduled for 2017, with my twenty-fifth book due out next Christmas. On November 1st, I will celebrate twenty-years as a published author. I cross genres with gleeful abandon, from contemporary, to historical, to time travel, to erotic romance. My favorite genre/era is what’s termed “vintage” historical which covers the years from the end of WWII to the beginning of the twenty-first century. I’m also somewhat partial to the Roaring Twenties. I was fortunate enough to win two 2015 International Digital Awards. Home is Where the Hunk is took first place in the full length contemporary romance category and The Mysterious Mrs. Pennybaker , set in the Twenties, won for short erotic romance. I also write a daily blog, Notes From a Romantic’s Heart, where I feature the work of other authors as well as share writing tips. I also do two monthly blog columns for my publishers. Eye of the Pharaoh Publicist Teri Hunter has her hands full promoting Professor Joshua Cain and his new non-fiction book, The Pharaoh’s Mummy. She’s not even sure it’s possible to turn this absent-minded, modern-day, Indiana Jones into a best-selling author. Dr. Cain’s PhDs in archaeology and art history have prepared him for almost anything on the lecture circuit and among ancient ruins. He’s just not sure about a book tour...or the sexy publicist sent to monitor his every professional move. When an odd request falls into their laps while in New Orleans, Josh and Teri find themselves transported to 1920’s Egypt where they must resolve an ancient curse in order to be sent home. Will the dangers facing them hinder their success and threaten their very lives? Or will help from an ancient guardian keep them on-track and safe? GET THE BOOK The Author Like most authors, Nancy Fraser began writing at an early age, usually on the walls and with crayons or, heaven forbid, permanent markers. Her love of writing often made her the English teacher’s pet, which, of course, resulted in a whole lot of teasing. Still, it was worth it. Published in multiple genres, Nancy currently writes for four publishers. She has published twenty-two books in both full-length and novella format. Nancy will be celebrating her 20th year as a published author in November 2016. When not writing (which is almost never), Nancy dotes on her five wonderful grandchildren and looks forward to traveling and reading when time permits. Nancy lives in Atlantic Canada where she enjoys the relaxed pace and colorful people. Visit the author at nancyfraser.ca . #AuthorInterview #ContemporaryRomance

THE BOOK Disaster Crimes, Book 2 A READER'S OPINION Murder, danger and romance come together in Seismic Crimes , book two of Chrys Fey's "Disaster Crime" series. Donovan and Beth are thrust into one traumatic event after another as Donovan tries to prove his innocence and Beth does whatever she can to help him. The characters are interesting but I felt some could have been a little more developed. I thought the author did a great job making the disaster scenes, and the terror, feel realistic Seismic Crimes offers up a lot of action to keep the reader interested in the story until the end. This can be read as a stand-alone book, but readers might find it helpful to read book one first. I felt like I had come in on the middle of a story and relationship, and I had to catch up. Chrys Fey's "Disaster Crime" series has a lot of promise. Reviewer's Rating : 3 1/2 Stars | Content Rating : 5 Hearts | Reviewed by : Kaylie Morgan BUY AT AMAZON | VIEW OUR RATING SYSTEM BOOK SYNOPSIS An Internal Affairs Investigator was murdered and his brother, Donovan Goldwyn, was framed. Now Donovan is desperate to prove his innocence. And the one person who can do that is the woman who saved him from a deadly hurricane—Beth Kennedy. From the moment their fates intertwined, passion consumed him. He wants her in his arms. More, he wants her by his side in his darkest moments. Beth Kennedy may not know everything about Donovan, but she can't deny what she feels for him. It's her love for him that pushes her to do whatever she has to do to help him get justice, including putting herself in a criminal's crosshairs. When a tip reveals the killer's location, they travel to California, but then an earthquake of catastrophic proportions separates them. As aftershocks roll the land, Beth and Donovan have to endure dangerous conditions while trying to find their way back to one another. Will they reunite and find the killer, or will they lose everything? Take a walk with Chrys Fey through disasters, criminal activity, and blooming love. Adult Content 18+: Sensual scenes A few f-bombs References to crimes Crime scene depictions that may not be suitable for sensitive readers 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

THE BOOK Matchmaking for Wallflowers, Book 2 A READER'S OPINION Charming Regency romance! A Rogue to Avoid is Bianca Blythe's second story in her Matchmaking Wallflowers series. I was expecting the same intensity as in How to Capture a Duke , but that doesn't seem to be the case. Mind you, it's well written and I liked it, but it's missing that touch that really grabs your attention! It's the beautiful tale of Gerard, a Scottish scoundrel and Cordelia, an English wallflower! The story starts as Gerard is running away from a debt collector named Oggleton, who wants to collect the money that Gerard's deceased mother had contracted. Trying to escape, Gerard comes crashing down at a ball where Cordelia, known as the Ice Queen, is trying to mingle with the other young debutantes searching for husbands. They are so different: Gerard with a scoundrel attitude and Cordelia, a lady with a snobbish touch! However, he needs to find a wife—a rich wife—to help him pay Oggleton. Together they will embark on an adventure that started on a misunderstanding, but as they share time together, there will be trust and then romance. Will Gerard offer Cordelia a marriage of convenience without expectations or a marriage of love? Just follow their journey filled with twists and turns. I will definitely try another story by Bianca Blythe! Reviewer's Rating : 4 Stars | Content Rating : 5 Hearts | Reviewed by : Nicole Laverdure BUY AT AMAZON | VIEW OUR RATING SYSTEM BOOK SYNOPSIS The only thing Lady Cordelia and Lord Rockport can agree on is their mutual abhorrence. Lady Cordelia was supposed to be the perfect debutante. But three broken engagements later, she's the subject of titters rather than laudations. Now relegated to the wallflower section of every ballroom, she does not want anything to plummet her further into scandal. She absolutely does not want to have anything to do with the too handsome, too roguish, too Scottish Marquess of Rockport. Gerard Highgate, Marquess of Rockport, is not the type to attend balls. But when he is chased into a home in Harrogate, he decides he must blend in—even if that means dancing with Lady Cordelia. Print Length: 231 pages Publication Date: September 19, 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

Please join us in welcoming author Cynthia Owens from Canada to Books & Benches for an interview. Cynthia is the talented author of the Claddagh Series and Wild Geese series. " Yesterday’s Promise is a well-written historical romance that ends on a forever love note! Please give this novel a chance because you won’t be disappointed!" — Books & Benches We asked, Cynthia answered . . . In 250 words or less, what can you tell us about your newest release? …Like the Wild Geese of Old Ireland, five boys grew to manhood despite hunger, war, and the mean streets of New York… An army doctor, Declan Morrissey fought for the survival of every wounded soldier, rejoicing when they recovered, mourning bitterly when they died. Valerie Stanton was his beautiful battlefield nurse, strong, courageous, and dedicated. He never dreamed she was an heiress, or that she’d break his heart in a desperate gamble to save the life of another man. Now that they’ve found each other again, can they overcome past deception and claim the happily ever after they dreamed of? What story are you working on next, and what inspired it? At the moment, I’m working on the final book of the Wild Geese Series, The Carousel . It’s the story of Kieran Donnelly, a gifted artist who has refused to paint since he returned from the American Civil War. He’s seen so much ugliness that he no longer has the heart to paint beauty. Until he meets Emily Lawrence, the beautiful blind girl who challenges him to face the horrors of the battlefield. The inspiration for this story was twofold. When I created Kieran Donnelly, I thought, “Who better to heal a wounded artist than a blind woman?” And the inspiration for Emily was my late grandmother, Emma Laflamme. Blind from the age of 40, she still lived a full life, and one of my most enduring memories is of her standing at her kitchen counter kneading bread—the most wonderful, mouth-watering bread I’ve tasted to this day! As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? I had many ambitions as a child. After I read Heidi (still one of my favorite stories), I decided I wanted to live in the Alps and raise goats. Shortly afterward, I discovered the Nancy Drew and Trixie Belden books. I was hooked, and I became obsessed with the idea of being a “girl detective” just like them. But a funny thing happened along the way. After I’d read every Nancy and Trixie book my school and community libraries had, I started writing stories continuing their detective adventures. Soon I began to create my own characters, and the rest, as they say, is history. By the time I was twelve, I knew I couldn’t be happy unless I was writing. What are three things people may not know about you? Well, let’s see. I collect things. My favorite thing to collect is music boxes. I have a Lennox collectible music box commemorating the 50th anniversary of Irving Berlin’s "White Christmas." Another, featuring a bird dancing on its perch in a cage, plays "O, What a Beautiful Morning" from Oklahoma. As a teenager who liked her sleep after a late night of reading, my mother would come into my room and sing that song when she decided I slept too late. I still get teary-eyed when I hear that tune. I’m searching for a Phantom of the Opera music box, but so far no luck. I love winter! I look forward to the first snow every year, and the earlier the better. I also love to drive up to the Laurentian Mountains and go cross-country skiing. And sitting by a roaring fire with a cup of tea or hot chocolate is a great way to wind up a cold winter day! I once took a fencing class. I wasn’t very good (not aggressive enough, I suppose) but it was fun. I saw that my town was offering the class, and I thought, “What if I one day write a swashbuckling pirate hero?” So I signed up! What is your favorite scene in Yesterday’s Promise ? It has to be the scene at Catherine Graham’s ball! A very posh, high society ball, where Valerie and her brother have been forced to appear, even though Valerie isn’t received in society because of her past (she ran away from her family to become an army nurse). There are some nasty comments about her—all uttered in very audible undertones, of course—and all Valerie wants to do is run away and hide. Then our hero, Declan steps in. He sweeps her onto the dance floor, chasing away her tears and her feeling of inadequacy. It’s a scene that’s both touching and tender, and after I wrote it I absolutely loved it! Yesterday's Promise Wild Geese Series, Book Four …Like the Wild Geese of Old Ireland, five boys grew to manhood despite hunger, war, and the mean streets of New York… An army doctor, Declan Morrissey fought for the survival of every wounded soldier, rejoicing when they recovered, mourning bitterly when they died. Valerie Stanton was his beautiful battlefield nurse, strong, courageous, and dedicated. He never dreamed she was an heiress, or that she’d break his heart in a desperate gamble to save the life of another man. Now that they’ve found each other again, can they overcome past deception and claim the happily ever after they dreamed of? GET THE BOOK The Author I believe I was destined to be interested in history. One of my distant ancestors, Thomas Aubert, reportedly sailed up the St. Lawrence River to discover Canada some 26 years before Jacques Cartier’s 1534 voyage. Another relative was a 17thCentury “King’s Girl,” one of a group of young unmarried girls sent to New France (now the province of Quebec) as brides for the habitants (settlers) there. My passion for reading made me long to write books like the ones I enjoyed, and I tried penning sequels to my favorite Nancy Drew mysteries. Later, fancying myself a female version of Andrew Lloyd Weber, I drafted a musical set in Paris during WWII. A former journalist and lifelong Celtophile, I enjoyed a previous career as a reporter/editor for a small chain of community newspapers before returning to my first love, romantic fiction. My stories usually include an Irish setting, hero or heroine, and sometimes all three. I’m the author of The Claddagh Series, historical romances set in Ireland and beyond, and The Wild Geese Series, in which five Irish heroes return from the American Civil War to find love and adventure. I’m a member of the Romance Writers of America, Hearts Through History Romance Writers, and Celtic Hearts Romance Writers. A lifelong resident of Montreal, Canada, I still live there with my own Celtic hero and our two teenage children. Visit the author at www.cynthiaowensromancewriter.com . #AuthorInterview #HistoricalRomance

THE BOOK A Prairie Romance A READER'S OPINION Moving On is a beautifully written story about healing, and struggling to find a fresh start after a tragic loss. Anna and Nick share a journey to become a whole again after each have gone through more than what the average person can understand. What stood out to me most was how the author approached the grief of both characters. Neither is perfect and yet they are each what the other needs. Anna struggles with her growing feelings because she is unsure if she could risk losing someone else. Nick needs to discover who he is as a changed man and how that will affect his future. I wish there had been a little more to the ending but the characters and the easy reading style made this a sweet and enjoyable book to read. The setting is just right for the story and Anna's neighbors are sure to make you smile. But what about Nick and Anna? Will they be able to put their fears and loss behind them? Will they find a way to use their tragedies to become stronger? The answers are worth finding out. Reviewer's Rating : 4 Stars | Content Rating : 1 Hearts | Reviewed by : Kaylie Morgan BUY AT AMAZON | VIEW OUR RATING SYSTEM BOOK SYNOPSIS Anna is a mysterious young widow who just moved to Regina Beach. The residents of the small town know everyone’s business and they are very keen on discovering Anna’s secrets. She meets Nick, a Sergeant in the Canadian Army, until a horrific accident sent him home to recover from his injuries sustained in an IED explosion. He helps Anna feel safe and comfortable in her new environment, just as he has always done for his men in strange, dangerous places. Meanwhile, he focuses on preparing for his future physical endurance test to prove that he is capable of returning to active duty. Because Anna doesn’t talk about her past and Nick doesn’t talk about his future, she is shocked to discover that his greatest wish is to return to active duty. Afraid of getting hurt, she won’t love a man who may die on the job again. Intellectually, she knows that all life cycles end, but emotionally, she doesn’t know if she has the strength to support Nick. Print Length: 212 pages Publisher: Soul Mate Publishing Publication Date: September 29, 2014 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

THE BOOK "Delightful novella!" A READER'S OPINION Delightful! Becky Lower is a new author for me and I really enjoyed her novella, A Regency Yuletide ! It's well written, refreshing, and so romantic with her two charming characters, Sophie and Jeremy! If you love short Christmas stories, then this novella will please you! When Sophie's father died, she and her mother, Evelyn had to leave the estate where they lived as a family. Since they had no heir, the estate was now managed by a ruthless uncle who only wanted to get rid of them. Now both ladies are living in a small cottage on the estate. Sophie has to find a way to make their lives better, and either marry the vicar's son or wait for true love. Enters in their lives, Jeremy, a business partner with his best friend Thomas. Will Sophie be able to resist his charm? Is Jeremy ready to settle down and have a family? Will the spirit of Yuletide do it's magic? It's a romantic story of ''And they lived happily ever after''! I will surely watch her next books! Reviewer's Rating : 4 1/2 Stars | Content Rating : 1 Hearts | Reviewed by : Nicole Laverdure BUY AT AMAZON | VIEW OUR RATING SYSTEM BOOK SYNOPSIS After a disappointing season in London, Sophie Davenport returns home without a marriage proposal. No sooner does she settle back into her country life than she learns her uncle has arranged for her to marry the local vicar’s son, a respectable and utterly forgettable man. He’s returning home immediately after the Christmas holiday and they will wed. She sets about making this last Christmas with just she and her mother memorable. Jeremy Wyatt hatches a plan to help his friend Thomas and his love, Emma, escape to Gretna Green and marry before her father comes after them. What he’s really doing is avoiding heading to his parents’ home, where he is the son who is always making the wrong choices. But their carriage becomes hopelessly mired in the mud from the incessant rains so Jeremy sets off to find shelter for them at the first house he comes to. Sophie welcomes the wet and weary travelers, and her mother agrees to house them temporarily until they can free the carriage. Sophie forms a bond not only with Emma, but with Jeremy. However despite the sparks they ignite in each other, they have to maintain their separate paths. But love and mistletoe have a way of upsetting even the best-laid plans. Print Length: 63 pages Publisher: Romance With Sass Publication Date: October 2, 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 #ChristmasBook #RegencyRomance #412Stars #ReviewersTopPick

THE BOOK Wild Geese Series Book 4 A READER'S OPINION Heartwarming romance! Cynthia Owens's novel, Yesterday's Promise , is a touching and captivating love story with an Irish touch! This author never disappoints me with her Wild Geese series, stories of five boys that came from old Ireland to flee hunger and war, and start fresh in America. In her three previous stories, we followed Shane, Cathal, and Dary, and the women who now share their lives. Set in 1868 in New York City. This time, we get to read about Declan's own journey from a war doctor to living his dream by helping people and offering his talents as a doctor at the Five Points dispensary. During the war, Declan and his nurse, Valerie had fallen in love. However, after the war ended she broke her promise and returned to the man she loved dearly. Heartbroken, Declan continues with his new life until Valerie enters his life a second time! The moment they meet again, old feelings are born again between the two! Does their love belong to the past? Can Valerie and Declan overcome their past, too? What will happen to her brother Edmund, who is suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder? Can Doctor Declan help him to forget his past and move on with his life? Together they will embark on a journey filled with twists and turns. Can destiny give them a second chance to live a better life? Ms. Owens really wrote a very touching story of three beautiful souls in search of hope and love! If you love historical romance with an Irish touch, then you are in for a treat! Yesterday’s Promise is a well-written historical romance that ends on a forever love note! Please give this novel a chance because you won’t be disappointed! Reviewer's Rating : 5 Stars | Content Rating : 5 Hearts | Reviewed by : Nicole Laverdure BUY AT AMAZON | VIEW OUR RATING SYSTEM BOOK SYNOPSIS Like the Wild Geese of Old Ireland, five boys grew to manhood despite hunger, war, and the mean streets of New York. An army doctor, Declan Morrissey fought for the survival of every wounded soldier, rejoicing when they recovered, mourning bitterly when they died. Valerie Stanton was his beautiful battlefield nurse, strong, courageous, and dedicated. He never dreamed she was an heiress, or that she’d break his heart in a desperate gamble to save the life of another man. Now that they’ve found each other again, can they overcome past deception and claim the happily ever after they dreamed of? Print Length: 274 pages Publisher: Highland Press Publishing Publication Date: October 2, 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 #HistoricalRomance #5Stars