THE BOOK One soul bound mate...one quest to find her. Year 1210, Scottish Highlands. Kidnapped as a wee lass by a fierce Highland chief, Kyla MacKenzie has been raised for the past twenty years as the chief’s foster daughter, the ruthless chief a man who threatened to kill her parents should she ever speak the truth about her abduction. The chief covets her fae blood and when she’s asked to tend to a captured enemy warrior and discovers they hold a soul bond, all her secrets could be exposed and her parents’ lives endangered. Warrior Ronan Matheson discovers his chosen one is the foster daughter of his clan’s greatest enemy, a lass he’s been searching for his entire life, although when his fellow warriors come to his rescue and he escapes from within the enemy’s walls, he must then turn around and find a way to get back in, and all without his actual identity being discovered. It’s time to bind his chosen one to him, and for her to learn all about her true clan. Theirs is a battle of lost love, of passion flaring hot and strong, and of a journey to bridge the gap between two warring clans. A READER'S OPINION Highlander’s Bride offers an interesting twist on Fae mythology. Filled with rich descriptions and a thorough history, you feel the wind and smell the sea, as though you are walking through the Highlands yourself. The writing is excellent and the story flows easily (after the prologue). My only complaints about this book are limited to two. The book began with a bit of a slow start. The extensive list of character’s left me a bit lost at times and the Prologue slowed down the flow of the story. However, once you jump into Chapter One, the story finds its rhythm. I was able to connect and sympathize with the two leads, Kyla and Ronan. There was no shortage of romance or action, and the drama of “What will happen next?” kept me turning the pages. If you are looking for an original spin on the Fae and Celts, this book is for you. I will mention that coming into this book, as a ‘new to the series’ reader, I found myself a little lost and a bit troubled to keep up. There is a large list of characters that clearly come from the author’s previous series, Clan Matheson. I do believe that it would be beneficial to read her previous series before jumping into this one. If I didn’t feel a bit lost from the start, I would have been better able to connect with the characters, and this would have been a five-star book! This story has time-travel, romance, passion, magic, and danger. I’d definitely recommend! Reviewer's Rating: 4 Stars | Content Rating: 4 Hearts | Reviewed by: Veronica Moss BUY AT AMAZON | VIEW OUR RATING SYSTEM #AReadersOpinion

Please welcome author Leslie Budewitz who joins us as part of our Montana Author Month. Montana fiction written by authors who have lived in or spent a significant amount of time in the state. Leslie answers the question . . . What do you like best about living in Montana? I have the great good fortune of having been born and raised in Montana, and to have the ability to live and work here. I spent my college and young adult years in Seattle, a place I love writing about, and Mr. Right and I love to travel, both in the U.S. and abroad. But no matter how stunning the scenery, how tasty the food, or how amazing the art and architecture is in other parts of the world, I simply breathe better under the Big Sky! The pastel watercolor is of Clearwater Valley by Leslie Budewitz and the image on the right is of the author and her husband on White River Pass in the Bob Marshall Wilderness. Visit the author at http://www.lesliebudewitz.com. The Food Lovers' Mystery Series by Agatha Award-Winning Author Leslie Budewitz Death al Dente (Book 1) The town of Jewel Bay, Montana-known as the Food Lovers’ Village-is obsessed with homegrown an d homemade Montana fare. So when Erin Murphy takes over her family’s century-old general store, she turns it into a boutique market filled with local delicacies. But Erin’s freshly booming business might turn rotten when a former employee turns up dead. Murphy’s Mercantile, known as the Merc, has been a staple in Jewel Bay for over a hundred years. To celebrate their recent makeover as a gourmet food market, Erin has organized a town festival, a Festa di Pasta, featuring the culinary goods of Jewel Bay’s finest-including her mother Fresca’s delicious Italian specialties. But Erin’s sweet success is soured when the shop’s former manager, Claudette, is found dead behind the Merc on the Festa’s opening night. With rival chef James Angelo stirring up trouble and rumors swirling that Fresca’s sauce recipes were stolen from Claudette, Erin’s mother is under close scrutiny. Now Erin will have to hunt down some new suspects, or both her family and her store might wind up in hot water. Learn more about Death al Dente and where to buy at: http://www.lesliebudewitz.com/death-al-dente Crime Rib (Book 2) Gourmet food market owner Erin Murphy is determined to get Jewel Bay, Montana’s scrumptious local fare some national attention. But her scheme for culinary celebrity goes up in flames when the town’s big break is interrupted by murder. Food Preneurs, one of the hottest cooking shows on TV, has decided to feature Jewel Bay in an upcoming episode, and everyone in town is preparing for their close-ups, including the crew at the Glacier Mercantile, aka the Merc. Not only is Erin busy remodeling her courtyard into a relaxing dining area, she’s organizing a steak-cooking competition between three of Jewel Bay’s hottest chefs to be featured on the program. But Erin’s plans get scorched when one of the contending cooks is found dead. With all the drama going on behind the scenes, it’s hard to figure out who didn’t have a motive to off the saucy contestant. Now, to keep the town’s rep from crashing and burning on national television, Erin will have to grill some suspects to smoke out the killer. Learn more about Crime Rib and where to buy at: http://www.lesliebudewitz.com/crime-rib Butter Off Dead (Book 3) As the national bestselling Food Lovers’ Village mysteries continue, the merchants of Jewel Bay, Montana try to heat up chilly winter business with a new film festival. But their plans are sent reeling when a dangerous killer dims the lights on a local mover and shaker . . . In an attempt to woo tourists to Jewel Bay and cheer up the townies, Erin Murphy, manager of the specialty local foods market known as the Merc, is organizing the First Annual Food Lovers’ Film Festival, popping with classic foodie flicks and local twists on favorite movie treats. But when her partner in planning, painter Christine Vandeberg, is found dead only days before the curtain rises, Erin suspects someone is attempting to stop the films from rolling. To make matters worse, Nick—Erin’s brother and Christine’s beau—has top billing on the suspect list. Convinced her brother is innocent and determined that the show must go on, Erin must find who’s really to blame before Nick gets arrested or the festival gets shut down. And as the anniversary of Erin’s father’s death in a still-unsolved hit-and-run approaches, her own beau isn’t so keen on her leading role. But the closer Erin gets to shining a spotlight on the killer, the more likely it becomes that she’ll be the next person cut from the program . . . Learn more about Crime Rib and where to buy at: http://www.lesliebudewitz.com/butter-off-dead #MontanaAuthor #SeriesSpotlight #GuestAuthor

THE BOOK Second Chance Romance A READER'S OPINION If you are a horse lover and like romance, then Bev Pettersen's book, Millionaire's Shot , will be perfect for you! This author never disappoints me! Most of her stories include horses and the people who love them. This time we are introduced to the sport of polo. A world where the heroine, Cassie, used to excel, and where her ex boyfriend, Alex and his family own control this industry. When Cassie's grandfather suffers a heart attack, she returns to his family's small horse farm to help him, but this means seeing again—the man she once loved very much. Now, she doesn't want to get her heart broken again. However, meeting Alex again and his daughter Grace, will bring back lots of emotions! Their worlds collide and send sparks again! But Alex is not hers! Will destiny intervene and give them a second chance? Meeting Grace will create a new friendship between the girls. Grace is so sweet and charming. I loved her characters, and their story is filled with emotions! I found this sweet story so refreshing and well written! Reviewer's Rating : 4 1/2 Stars | Content Rating : 1 Heart | Reviewed by : Nicole Laverdure BUY AT AMAZON | VIEW OUR RATING SYSTEM BOOK SYNOPSIS She vowed never to return. He swore he’d never ask her. Cassie Edwards fled her family’s small horse farm when the man she loved married another woman. But now her ailing grandfather needs her help and she’s not going to stay away another minute. It doesn’t matter that the all-powerful Sutherland family controls the local polo industry where she once worked, or that they can make life very difficult for an old girlfriend. Besides, after all this time, Alex Sutherland is just a friend. Maybe. Wealthy Alex Sutherland has given up all his passions. Except for his daughter. And if sacrificing everything that ever made him happy will keep her safe, it’s a price he’s always been willing to pay. But Cassie still holds his heart, and when her return sparks a vengeful ex-wife’s wrath, will their second chance at love turn lethal? Print Length: 239 pages Publisher: Westerhall Publication Date: September 16, 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 #ContemporaryRomance #412Stars

THE BOOK A Royal Newfoundland Regiment Love Story A READER'S OPINION Heartrending and tender, A Splendid Boy by Melanie Martin is a beautiful love story spanning two time periods. The author writes of two young people who have the kind of love talked about in books and movies. In 1981, both Daniel and Emma are approached to be invited to and talk about their time during the war as part of a war commemoration. We're then transported to 1914 where their stories begin. Their remarkable love suffered, endured, and struggled through a time when so much ugliness and horror took place. I rarely read books set during WWI. However, the author swept me in with her easy writing style, and the fascinating history of a time and place I know little about, and she accomplished what few authors of WWI fiction have—she left me wanting more. I cared about Daniel and Emma so deeply, that by the end of the book, I don't mind saying I had shed a few tears. A Splendid Boy is a treasure of engaging history and incredible love. Well done, Melanie Martin. Content Rating: 3 Hearts | Reviewed by: MK McClintock This book has already been reviewed and rated for Books & Benches and received our Reader's Top Pick Seal of Distinction. Read the other review and learn more about the book. #AReadersOpinion #HistoricalFiction

Please welcome author Janet Fox who joins us as part of our Montana Author Month. Montana fiction written by authors who have lived in or spent a significant amount of time in the state. Janet answers the question . . . What do you like best about living in Montana? For thirty years my husband and I came to Montana every summer and lived in our small mountain cabin while we lived the rest of the year elsewhere. For thirty years we promised ourselves we'd one day live in Montana year round - and we've made that dream come true. I love the big sky. I love looking out the window and seeing the mountains. I love being able to experience the wilderness whenever I wish. I love the remoteness and isolation and I love the people. I can't imagine now living anywhere else. The above image of Montana was provided by Janet Fox. Visit the author at www.janetsfox.com . FAITHFUL by Janet Fox In 1904 Margaret Bennet has it all – money, position, and an elegant family home in Newport, Rhode Island. But just as she is to enter society, her mother ruins everything, first with public displays, and then by disappearing. Maggie’s confusion and loss are compounded when her father drags her to Yellowstone National Park, where he informs her that they will remain. At first Maggie’s only desire is to return to Newport. But the mystical beauty of the Yellowstone landscape, and the presence of young Tom Rowland, a boy unlike the others she has known, conspire to change Maggie from a spoiled girl willing to be constrained by society to a free-thinking and brave young woman living in a romantic landscape at the threshold of a new century. Publisher: Speak/Penguin Group, 2010 ISBN 978-0142414132 Ages 12 + Find the book at Amazon and IndieBound . #MontanaAuthor #GuestAuthor

" The Farmette Cookbook and Imen McDonnell get 5 fabulous stars!" — Books & Benches It brings me great pleasure to welcome Imen McDonnell, the creative talent behind the blog, Farmette.ie and The Farmette Cookbook . I first discovered Imen's blog a year after she started to share her stories and adventures about moving from the USA to settle in with her Irish farmer far from home. Her stories are poignant, humorous, and beautifully written, not to mention the stunning visual glimpses she offers of her farm and Ireland. “Imen has beautifully captured the rich heritage of Irish farmhouse cooking and cast a 21st century spell on it!” —Catherine Fulvio, author and award-winning proprietor of Ballyknocken House & Cookery School 5 QUESTIONS FOR IMEN MCDONNELL From her Irish farm to your hearts and homes. "If you have not yet visited Ireland and tasted its authentic foods, you'll want to after reading Imen's new cookbook. Living on an Irish farm has never looked this attractive. What a charming and delicious book!" —Béatrice Peltre, author of La Tartine Gourmande Without further ado . . . MK: I’ve been a long-time fan of your blog, back when it was I Married An Irish Farmer, into what it’s become—Farmette. I’ve enjoyed reading about your adventures on the farm. Can you tell us what inspired you to start blogging and share your stories? IMEN: Ironically, my blog was initially born out of a place of sorrow and survival and searching…we had just moved into our home on the farm when my father suddenly became very ill in the USA so I essentially dropped everything and headed home to care for him. We returned to Ireland 4 months later, mourning his shocking death. I suddenly I felt very alone in the Irish countryside, tending to a baby while my husband spent 14 hours days on the farm trying to catch up after being away for so long. I can still remember my first blog post, I was desperately reaching out to connect with family, friends, anyone and everyone who would listen! Soon after, I made it a personal strategy to always find and share the best of times on the farm, to really find the humour and beauty in my new life. I needed to do that for myself. To remind myself of all the good things about my new life. If I didn’t, I knew I wouldn’t make it in Ireland no matter how much I wanted to be here with Richard. MK: I believe I speak for more than myself when I say you've inspired many with how you found a way to make such a major (and wonderful) shift. I’m not alone in envisioning what it would be like to live on a farm in the Irish countryside. While it sounds idyllic and magical, life on a busy farm can’t always be easy. Will you share with us one of the challenges you’ve faced and overcome? What about one of the greatest joys? IMEN: Firstly, I must be said that I cannot imagine living full time anywhere else at this point. The raw beauty and organic quality of life in the Irish countryside is unparalleled. The quiet. The connection to nature. These things are now imperative to have in my life. The city bustle and convenience are not as important. This has evolved over the years; it used to be the opposite. I couldn’t sleep as it was too quiet and dark at night. Everything took too long. It looks messy. It can be smelly. The biggest challenge has been trying to reinvent myself here and adjust to country life. To redefine “making a living.” I did not realize how much my career in the USA defined me. My background was in broadcast production. I presumed I would be able to live on the farm and have steady freelance production work in Ireland. I was encouraged by the fact that I landed a brilliant position on a popular tv series here almost immediately. But, after the production ended there was no more work locally. I was a new mom. Then my father passed away. I felt stripped of my identity in so many ways. For the next couple if years, I tried lots of new fangled stay-at-home mom business ideas (babywear design, a young mums travel/food app, using our home as a film location, etc etc) all while writing my blog about all the funny changes I was experiencing. When Geoffrey was old enough, we started going to the farm to feed calves together. On the first day, there was a sick calf and we both felt so delighted that we got her to take milk. When we came back the next day, she hadn’t made it overnight. I was devastated. I brought Geoffrey into the farm kitchen with Gran and went back out to the corner of the shed and stood there literally hunched over heaving crying. I felt like I lost a baby myself. I felt responsible for not being able to save her. I had never considered the fact that animals can die on a farm. Later that day, I watched two calves being born in the field. I weeped tears of joy over how beautiful it was to witness this act of birthing and the incredible love and pride of the mother with her offspring afterward. A farm can be a very emotional place. The cycle of life is profound and always looming. Above all, I think my greatest joy has come by way of growing my extensive kitchen garden and learning my way around the kitchen with Geoffrey by my side. Sowing seeds and seeing them grow is so fulfilling, and something I never imagined I would be doing or enjoying so much. Cooking and baking and sharing food with family and friends is what really makes me happy. I love nothing more than a convivial farm feast using as many ingredients as possible that have been grown in our back garden and the fields of the farm. It must be the most satisfying feeling ever. ( As an aside, I am always inspired by this Thoreau quote which feels so relatable to me: “I went to the woods because I wished to live deliberately, to front only the essential facts of life, and see if I could not learn what it had to teach, and not, when I came to die, discover that I had not lived. I did not wish to live what was not life, living is so dear.” ) MK: Okay, you just had my eyes tearing up there! What lovely memories you've created from what began as challenges. Now, I have to ask more about the food! You often talked about food and cooking on the farm, but at some point there was a shift in your blog, with a more culinary focus. Were you always a foodie, or did that come from living on the farm? IMEN: I always very particular about food, but in a consumer type of way. I did love to entertain and cook sprawling fancy cookbook/food mag-style spreads for friends and loved ones, but there was a rare opportunity for me to do that. I was very busy with work and a lot of travel. I would often find myself in a Michelin starred restaurant in my work travels which was always gratifying. When I was home, my fridge would be stocked with ingredients from the gourmet grocer and/or the local co-op. I bought local without putting much thought into what “local” meant, I simply associated local foods with quality. So, becoming a bonafide cook really came after I moved to the farm, when it was necessary (and ultimately happily and wholeheartedly embraced) by proxy. MK: The Farmette Cookbook is one of the most beautifully designed cookbooks I’ve seen in a long time, and you were the photographer! What was the process of both cooking and photographing like? IMEN: Thank you! I am really proud of the book and love how it looks. I feel so fortunate that Roost hired one of the best book designers in the business, Shubhani Sarkar. ( http://sarkardesignstudio.com ) She came to my book launch in Brooklyn and was so gracious and lovely! I am in awe of her work. Yes, I took all of the photos and my great friend, Sonia Mulford Chaverri, came to Ireland to work with me on the food styling so I had fantastic help! We shot and styled 5-6 recipes a day, sometimes more, but because many of them were shot on location on the farm, the process took a bit longer. It was intense, a total learning curve, but just incredible and an unforgettable life experience. MK: You also contribute to other publications in addition to the Farmette blog. Where else can readers learn more about you, your recipes, and your farm adventures? IMEN: I am a member of the Irish Food Writers’ Guild and have contributed to several magazines and newspapers including to Condé Nast Traveler (USA) and Town and Country Magazine (UK), but have mostly been busy doing interviews since the book release this spring! I am currently in talks to resume an Irish newspaper column that I used to pen, and looking at doing a series of short films from the farm and my kitchen. Update on those soon! Thank you, Imen, for spending a little time with us and sharing a bit about your farm life and your lovely work on The Farmette Cookbook . For readers who would like learn more about and connect with Imen, visit Farmette.ie . or follow her on Facebook , Twitter , and Instagram . You can also read my review of this fabulous cookbook! Whether for a gift or yourself, this cookbook is a lovely addition to any kitchen library. Imen McDonnell and her handsome farmers. THE COOKBOOK The Farmette Cookbook: Recipes and Adventures from My Life on an Irish Farm “Imen takes traditional Irish cooking to the next level with her American curiosity and ingenuity. She weaves big city cravings, like potstickers, tacos, banh mi, harissa, pizza, and more, with traditional comfort food made from scratch. Imen’s brave leap of faith and love is a boon for the rest of us: we now have this charming book full of stories and recipes I can’t wait to make.” —Susan Spungen, founding food editor of Martha Stewart Living BUY AT AMAZON | AMAZON UK | ROOST BOOKS American city girl marries Irish dairy farmer; cooking, growing, foraging, fishing, preserving, and baking ensue: 150 delightful classic Irish recipes updated for the modern home cook. The Farmette Cookbook documents Imen McDonnell's extraordinary Irish country cooking journey, which began the moment she fell in love with an Irish farmer and moved across the Atlantic to County Limerick. This book's collection of 150 recipes and colorful stories chronicles nearly a decade-long adventure of learning to feed a family (and several hungry farmers) while adjusting to her new home (and nursing a bit of homesickness). Along the way she teaches us foundational kitchen skills and time-honored Irish traditions, sharing wisdom from her mother-in-law and other doyennes of Irish cooking. We learn the ritual of Sunday lunch, pudding, and tea. We go along with her on wild crafting walks--the country version of foraging for wild edibles. We visit her local fishmonger to see what we can create with his daily catch from the sea. Along the way we see how she's deviated from classic Irish recipes to add contemporary or American twists. The Farmette Cookbook is a compilation of tried-and-true recipes with an emphasis on local, fresh ingredients and traditional Irish kitchen skills, which for Imen have healed homesickness and forged new friendships. Hardcover: 384 pages Publisher: Roost Books Publication Date: March 8, 2016 THE AUTHOR Imen McDonnell is an American cook, writer, and farmer who contributes to Irish Country Magazine, Condé Nast Traveler and more. In a former life, she spent her days working in broadcast production while living in New York, Minneapolis and Los Angeles. She now resides with her husband, Richard, and their young son, Geoffrey, on a centuries-old farm in rural Ireland and shares illustrious stories of farm life & food on her popular blog, Farmette.ie . Imen and her modern Irish recipes have been featured in The New York Times, The Irish Times, The Sunday Times (UK) The Los Angeles Times, Food and Wine Magazine, Huffington Post Taste, Saveur Magazine and more. #AuthorInterview #Cookbook

THE BOOK Many women went missing outside Mystic Glades. She escaped. A READER'S OPINION Scary suspense with a touch of romance! Lena Diaz didn't disappoint me with the final conclusion of her Marshland Justice series! Hostage Negotiation is a nonstop suspense that I guarantee will keep your interest until the very last page, and sitting on the edge of your seat. It's a completely stand-alone book filled with intrigue. A real page turner with a very fast pace. Hostage Negotiation is the story of Zack, the new Chief of police of Mystic Glades in Florida, where someone was abducting and torturing women. Who is this mad man? When one of these missing women shows up suddenly in front of Zack's truck, he think he has hit her, but in reality, he has just saved Kaylee from the devil who held her prisoner. An investigation is open to find this demon! When the killer still lurks in the shadows and threatens Kaylee's life, Zack will do everything in his power to protect her. As they spend time sharing details of the investigation, she discovers that she needs him more than ever. Is love in the air for Zak and Kaylee? Lena Diaz is one of my favorite authors of thriller suspense! Beautiful conclusion for a great series! Reviewer's Rating: 5 Stars | Content Rating: 1 Heart | Reviewed by: Nicole Laverdure BUY AT AMAZON | VIEW OUR RATING SYSTEM Format Read: Mass Market Paperback | Source: Provided by the author or publisher BOOK SYNOPSIS & INFO Many women went missing outside Mystic Glades. She escaped. When he took the job, Zack Scott heard about the horrors waiting in the swamp. So when Kaylee Brighton dashed into the road like the devil was on her tail, the new police chief gave her a safe place to recover. Imprisoned for months, Kaylee could lead Zack to her captor. Though Zack swore to protect her, only Kaylee knew the darkness that awaited them if she returned. She couldn't begin to understand what drove Zack, but she knew the importance of having him by her side. Because it wasn't enough for Kaylee to have escaped. Now it was time to take back her life. Genre: Contemporary Romantic Suspense Series: Marshland Justice (Book 4) Mass Market Paperback: 256 pages Publisher: Harlequin (August 23, 2016) #AReadersOpinion #ContemporaryRomanticSuspense

A READER'S OPINION A romantic story of second chances! I have really enjoyed two stories written by Dawn Brower, but this time, with One Heart to Give , the first story in the Heart's Intent series, this author has truly outdone herself on the emotional side. This romantic contemporary is so touching that it will take you on a roller coaster ride of ups and downs; you'll feel sad, and wish for hope and happiness for the two main characters. Give this story a chance. You won't be disappointed!  It tells the story of Daniella Brosen, an orphan who felt rejected and became very selective when choosing her friends. Until one day, a beautiful friendship blooms between her and her dear friend Rendall Sousa, but sadly, he wasn't hers to love—he belonged to another. Feeling hurt again, she left him to make a fresh start. Ten years later, destiny brings them back together. When they meet again, they discover that the power of attraction is mutual and very much alive. Ren had loved Dani so much that he had never forgotten her. Will she leave again? Can a new relationship be possible after ten years? Will they get a second chance? Will they forgive, trust and understand each other in order to move on with their lives? Will sparks flare and ignite another beautiful passion? Beautiful surprise ending that I didn't expect! One Heart to Give is emotional, touching, very well written and so romantic! I really recommend it! Be sure to watch for her next story, Unveiled Heart. Rating : 5 Stars | Content Rating : 3 Hearts BUY AT AMAZON | VIEW OUR RATING SYSTEM BOOK DESCRIPTION When tragedy strikes Dani's business partner, it brings Ren back into her life. She'd thought she moved past her feelings for him, but with one glance they come flooding back. Growing up as an orphan, Daniella Brosen has trouble connecting with other people. She has no room for anyone in her life, except her best friend, Rendall Sousa. He is the only male she's ever loved, or will love. Circumstances beyond her control tear them apart, and she has no choice but to leave him behind. When Daniella left without a word it broke Ren's heart. If she'd given him a chance, he'd have told her how much he loved her. Dani was everything to him, but she made her choice. There was only one course of action left to him--move on without her. As their lives become intertwined again, can Ren convince her he's always loved her or will she push him away forever?  ​ Series: Heart's Intent, Book One Genre: Contemporary Romance | Release: July 12, 2016 | 217pp Format Read: E-Book | Source: Provided by the author or publisher #AReadersOpinion #ContemporaryRomance #2016Review

A Reader's Opinion The Texas landscape comes alive in Sunrise Crossing by talented author Jodi Thomas. Every bit as colorful and vivid as the paintings in the book, the wildflowers and sunrise hues jump off the page like magic. The author gave us a lot of characters to get to know in one book, and offered up multiple storylines that neatly came together as the story moved along. While I enjoyed the individual stories, Parker Lacey and Clint Montgomery stole the show for me. Crossroads, Texas is a place where wounded hearts and battered souls can come to heal and start anew and that's what happens here. Yancy and Tori are two unlikely hearts that find each other by chance but end up finding their peace. Gabe's story turned out a lot different than I expected and I like surprises. The end felt very rushed, but Parker and Clint's tender romance, with her fears and his gentle heart, made for a touching and melt-into-each other kind of love story.   Book Description Return to peaceful Crossroads, Texas, where community comes first and love thrives in the unlikeliest places…  ​ Yancy Grey is slowly putting his life back together after serving time for petty theft. As he rebuilds an old house, he finally has a sense of stability, but he can't stop thinking of himself as just an ex-con. Until one night, he finds a mysterious dark-haired beauty hiding in his loft. But who is she, and what secret is she protecting?  ​ The art gallery Parker Lacey manages is her life—she has no time for friends, and certainly not lovers. But when her star artist begs Parker for help, she finds herself in a pickup truck, headed for the sleepy town of Crossroads. A truck driven by a strong, silent cowboy…  ​ Gabe Snow has been a drifter since he left Crossroads at seventeen after a violent incident. When he accepts a job in his hometown, he'll have to decide whether he can put the worst night of his life behind him and build a future in the community that raised him. ​ Series: Ransom Canyon Content Rating : 3 1/2 Hearts PURCHASE BOOK | VIEW OUR RATING SYSTEM Contemporary Romance | Release: August 30, 2016 | 384pp | HQN Books Format Read: Mass Market | Source: Provided by publisher #AReadersOpinion #ContemporaryRomance #2016Review

A Reader's Opinion Mary Morgan has truly worked her magic again! Let yourself be swept away through time to Scotland, and enjoy the wonderful conclusion to the world of the Dragon Knights. Mary Morgan has outdone herself with Dragon Knight's Ring , her fifth story and last installment! Lovers of time travel romance filled with magic, dragons, druids, and faes are in for a treat! It tells the story of Adam MacFhearguis, a lost soul who is seeking redemption and a fresh start. He decides to travel as a crusader by making vows of poverty and prayer, to seek forgiveness. Adam only wishes to forget his past! However, destiny has other plans for him. Standing near the famous standing stones in Scotland, magic will happen again! He will be thrown forward to the future! Enters Meggie! The first time she met him, Meggie felt a powerful power of attraction towards Adam. She becomes very intrigued by this charming man. Will they get a second chance? Can their love survive along their journey filled with twists and turns? Will we meet again, Dragon Knights, Angus, Duncan, Stephen and Alastair? Will the order defeat evil? Mary Morgan is one of my favorite authors of time travel romance; she nicely weaved her rich characters into an exciting story of fiction, magic and romance. She also added a dash of humor that created some cute and funny scenes. She never disappoints me! I'm sad that this series, Order of the Dragon Knights , is ending, but I'm also curious to know what this author will write next. Book Description Crusader, Adam MacFhearguis is on one last quest to the standing stones in Scotland where he seeks to bury the past. However, a silent prayer sends him to an unknown future and to his beloved Meggie. When he uncovers a shocking revelation, Adam questions everything about the woman he thought he knew and loved. He may have traveled the veil of ages, but time is now his enemy. Margaret MacKay lives a life in the future without the memories of her past—her death. When Adam arrives at her door confessing he knows her, she is confused and wary. With each passing day, she yearns to learn more from this stranger. Yet, when a truth is revealed, can she trust the man to unlock the chains from her mind and heart? Will love free the bonds to unite the two lovers who were doomed centuries ago? Or will evil finally claim victory over the Dragon Knights? ​ Series: Order of the Dragon Knights, Book Five Content Rating : 2 Hearts | Reviewed by: Nicole Laverdure BUY AT AMAZON | VIEW OUR RATING SYSTEM Time Travel Romance | Pub: Sept 12, 2016 | 368pp | The Wild Rose Press Format Read: Paperback | Source: Provided by the author or publisher #AReadersOpinion #TimeTravelRomance

Please join us in welcoming author Amanda Uhl to Books & Benches for a 5 Question Q&A. Amanda writes contemporary romantic suspense with a paranormal twist. Mind Waves is her first novel. "Author [Amanda] Uhl gives us a well-written story with an exciting, smoothly paced plot and twists...an enthralling read." — Goodreads Review 5 QUESTIONS FOR AMANDA UHL In 250 words or less, what can you tell us about your newest release, Mind Waves? Mind Waves was inspired by frequent trips to Edgewater Beach in Cleveland, Ohio, to gather beach glass. I spent hours by myself, head bent over the sand, interrupted only occasionally by the interest of strangers who wondered what I was doing and if I found anything. That got me thinking: What if someone watched me gather beach glass day after day, and they were reading my mind. And what if they fell in love with me, and I had no idea. What would happen next? You’ll have to read the book to find out. What story are you working on next, and what inspired it? I am working on a contemporary, humorous office romance, called Charmed by Charlie , inspired by reruns of Gilmore Girls and the characters' somewhat snarky dialogue. The book deals with dashing charmer and creative genius, Charlie Solanger, who shows up as the new guy in the office. Charlie soon has all the woman vying for his attention, but the one he wants, math whiz and star product manager Valerie Wilson, proves maddeningly elusive. Val’s sworn off charming men after catching her fiancé and the owner's son sleeping with her best friend. There's no way she'll let a flirt like Charlie steal her away from her safe and placid boyfriend, George. But when Charlie discovers a mysterious sales trend is draining the company funds, Val must join forces with him to solve the mystery. But can she be around Charlie for any length of time without falling victim to his charm? What is your favorite motivational phrase? I wear my favorite motivational phrase around my neck as a constant reminder to never, ever give up on my writing. It reads, “Creativity takes courage. Don’t give up.” If you could have been the original author of any book, what would it have been and why? I love Charlotte’s Web . It is so well-written and such a beautiful and classic story for young and old alike. I most admire how the climax of the story also provides the moral. The perfection in the timing takes amazing skill and talent on the part of the author. What are three things people may not know about you? —I have fourteen siblings all from the same parents. —My dad is 91 and has published a book available on Amazon of his memories as a foot soldier in WWII – it’s called “Dear Mom.” —I can’t tell a joke properly. I almost always forget the punch line. "Finished it! And really, really enjoyed it! You nailed the characters of David and Grace–David was so intriguing and mysterious and completely likeable. Grace’s mental commentary made you feel like you knew her and made her relatable right from the start. All the characters for that matter were really well developed and unique. I loved the story line as well. Such a cool concept. I kept wanting to read more, especially as the book progressed and their predicament was building." — Advanced Reader THE AUTHOR Amanda Uhl has always had a fascination with the mystical. Having drawn her first breath in a century home rumored to be haunted, you might say she was "born" into it. After a brief stint in college as a paid psychic, Amanda graduated with a bachelor of fine arts in theatre and a master's degree in marketing. Over the past twenty years, she has worked as an admissions representative and graphic designer, owned her own freelance writing company, and managed communications for several Fortune 500 companies, most recently specializing in cyber security. Amanda is an avid reader and writes fast-paced, paranormal romantic suspense and humorous contemporary romance from her home in Cleveland, Ohio. When she's not reading or writing, you can find Amanda with her husband and three children, gathering beach glass on the Lake Erie shoreline or biking in Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Visit her online at www.amandauhl.com and follow her on Facebook at www.facebook.com/amandauhlauthor or Twitter at @AuAuthor. FEATURED BOOK Mind Waves 2015 Rudy Bronze Medalist from the Chesapeake Romance Writers If he can control her mind… Government operative David Jenkins is skilled at controlling his emotions. Feelings are lethal when your job is to infiltrate minds, erase and implant thoughts, and guard the nation’s intellectual capital. But even he can’t fight his strange attraction to Grace Woznisky. He’ll do whatever it takes to protect her from a madman intent on possessing both their minds. Neither suspect their dangerous enemy has a larger motive, and David may be Grace’s only chance for survival. Can he control her heart? All freelance artist Grace wants is steady-paying work and to see her flighty sister to the altar. But after David offers her a job, she finds herself in the middle of a mental tug of war—one that has her reeling from nightmares and fighting for her life. She must decide: Are her growing feelings for her new boss authentic, or is she a victim of his mind-altering abilities? Publisher: The Wild Rose Press Publication Date: October 7, 2016 BUY AT AMAZON #AuthorInterview #ParanormalRomance

THE BOOK Will Rose and Hunter overcome their differences and embrace true love? Fabled Love, Book One A READER'S OPINION Charming and sweet! Enchanted by the Earl is the classic tale of a young lady betrothed to an evil man and rescued by an honorable man! Amanda Mariel has written a beautiful introduction for her new Fabled Love series. It’s a short and romantic novella to enjoy! It tells the story of Rose, who has lost both her parents and is threaten by Mr. Wolfe, a man who only wants her for her possessions. He will even go as far as to have someone forge documents and use them against Rose. Enters in her life, Hunter, who will do anything in his power to prevent Wolfe to cause anymore pain to Rose. She simply doesn’t want to marry Wolfe. But, now as she is reduced to being a seamstress, will she get a chance to have her dream come true in the arms of a true gentleman? Will Hunter deal with Wolfe’s threats? Can Rose be free again? Is there hope for Rose and Hunter to be happy? The plot is well developed with twists and turns. Enchanted by the Earl is a light historical classic romance set during the Regency era. If you love fairy tales that ends with a “they lived happily ever after” then you are in for a treat! Watch for her next story, Captivated By the Captain . Reviewer's Rating: 4 Stars | Content Rating: 2 Hearts | Reviewed by: Nicole Laverdure BUY AT AMAZON | VIEW OUR RATING SYSTEM Format Read: E-Book | Source: Provided by the author or publisher BOOK SYNOPSIS & INFO Will Rose and Hunter overcome their differences and embrace true love? Rose Woodcourt, a poor seamstress, is too proud to accept help, even when her home and freedom are threatened by the nefarious Mr. Wolfe. Especially not from Hunter Thorne, a titled gentleman far above her station. Earls only court common misses for one reason, and Rose has no interest in being a wealthy man’s mistress--however handsome and charming he may be. Hunter is an honorable man; he refuses to turn his back on the spirited beauty regardless of how hard she pushes him away. As Mr. Wolfe’s threats evolve into actions Rose has little choice but to turn to Hunter. Can the pair put an end to Wolfe’s nefarious deeds before Rose loses everything she holds dear, including her freedom? Print Length: 112 pages Publication Date: August 5, 2016 #AReadersOpinion #HistoricalRomance #RegencyRomance