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What happens in the mind of a writer? What makes them tick, or inspires them to put pen to page? Joanna Fitzpatrick shares her historical fiction mystery novel, The Artist Colony , and a gives us a glimpse into the mind the writer. The Artist Colony Paris, July, 1924… Sarah, a young Modernist painter, receives a cable from California. Her estranged older sister, Ada Belle, has died under suspicious circumstances. When she arrives two weeks later at San Francisco’s Union Station, Sarah is confronted by a newspaper headline: “Inquest Verdict: Artist Commits Suicide.” Sarah remembers the last haunting words Ada Belle said to her: “Ars longa, vita brevis: Art is long, life is short.” But Ada Belle’s work is selling, and her upcoming exhibition of portraitures would bring her even wider recognition. Why would she kill herself? Sarah’s quest to find the truth of what happened to Ada Belle leads her to join the bucolic artist colony to look for clues. As she delves into her sister’s underworld, tensions surface. The darker things get, the closer she comes to terrible danger. How far will a killer go before he kills again? AMAZON | GOOGLE PLAY | BOOKSHOP | BARNES & NOBLE Q&A with Author Joanna Fitzpatrick Does writing energize or exhaust you? The most energizing moment comes just before I write the first draft of a manuscript. It's the moment when the silver lining of an idea shows up and I ask myself "what if . . ." Then a tsunami of "what ifs" overpower any doubts I might have. That's when I sit down at my desk, click Word and a blank page magically appears on my screen. These exhilarating tsunamis don't come along everyday and, when they do, you must show up because that's when your adventure as a writer begins. So fasten your seatbelt and enjoy the ride. The first draft is for my eyes alone. And there's a good reason. It shuts down my inner critic and I'm free to wander in my imagination. Anything goes. Plot lines bring me to locations and locations to characters that become tangible. Scenes flow from my mind, down my arms and into fingers that tap to the rhythm of my imagination. It's a vigorous tap dance. Exhaustion comes later, when I'm waiting between drafts for my editor's comments. Or when I tear myself apart by asking my inner critic if the manuscript is good enough to send to my agent. Your inner critic is the last one you should ask. It will have a heyday telling you why no one will want to read it. And then the moment comes when I have a finished manuscript. The weight of a million words balanced in my hands. That's when the excitement returns and the energy to start all over again on the next novel. What is your favorite motivational phrase? “I adore Life. What do all the fools matter and all the stupidity. They do matter but somehow for me they cannot touch the body of Life. Life is marvelous. I want to be deeply rooted in it - to live - to expand - to breathe in it - to rejoice - to share it. To give and to be asked for Love.” ― Katherine Mansfield, (1888-1923) short story writer and the only writer Virginia Woolf was ever jealous of. I was so inspired by Katherine Mansfield that I wrote an historical novel based on her life: Katherine Mansfield , 10th Anniversary edition (La Drome Press). What do you think about when you are alone in your car? I think way too much when I'm in my car. It's distracting and dangerous. It's just that being behind a steering wheel is so boring and, in my opinion, such a terrible waste of time. When I lived in Manhattan I rode in taxis or on a train and read the paper or just looked out the window. My sister knits at traffic lights. I fiddle with my smarter-than-me phone checking for messages, which is an absolute no-no, take a French lesson on Pimsleur, listen to a podcast, or belt the lyrics to a Lady Gaga tune. Let me make it perfectly clear: I don't recommend my foolish car habits to anyone. I should just drive, which would be a lot safer. Do you have to be alone or have quiet to write? I have to be alone and I prefer writing to music. One of the benefits of writing to music is you can write in a crowded coffee shop but feel like you're alone. I write to soundtracks amplified be those little pods I stick in my ears so the music is literally inside my head. Music is Pavlovian for me. I stick those pods in my ears and my inner lights go on and I forget all about going to the market to get milk or washing the dishes in the sink. My Spotify playlist is a collection of movie soundtracks. I see scenes cinematically when I write, so soundtracks enhance my writing. I only listen to singers when I need lyrics that capture a feeling I'm trying to express. I have a tremendous admiration for film composers. They know how to write tender melodies that pull my heartstrings when I'm watching a movie but never distract me from the story. What has been your greatest pleasure in writing "The Artist Colony." "When a tree falls in a lonely forest, and no one is nearby to hear it, does it make a sound?" I don't think so. My greatest pleasure is when someone reads my novel. Without a reader, my words do not exist other than in my own head. Not that it isn't very satisfying to write for the sake of writing, but how much more satisfying when your story is actually read by someone else. I am forever grateful to my readers. Thank you! “The Artist Colony” is a sumptuous ride through the Carmel-by-the-Sea, circa 1920, as Sarah Cunningham, newly arrived from Paris, attempts to uncover the truth about her sister’s mysterious death. Atmospheric and delicious, FitzPatrick delivers a thrilling page-turner woven with artistic flourish. This exquisite novel does not disappoint! Highly recommended!” — Michelle Cox, author of the Henrietta and Inspector Howard series The Author Joanna FitzPatrick was born and raised in Hollywood. She started her writing habit by applying her orange fountain pen and a wild imagination to screenplays, which led her early on to produce the film White Lilacs and Pink Champagne. At Sarah Lawrence College, she wrote her MFA thesis Sha La La: Live for Today about her life as a rock ’n’ roll star’s wife. Her more recent work includes two novels, Katherine Mansfield and The Drummer’s Widow . The Artist Colony is her third book. Presently, FitzPatrick divides her time between a mountaintop cottage in Northern California and a small hameau in Southern France where she begins all her book projects. WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | GOODREADS Genre: Historical Fiction Release: September 7, 2021 Pages: 328pp Publisher: She Writes Press Type: Novel Content Rating: PG (1) View our rating system “The dramatic landscapes of Carmel, beautifully depicted by FitzPatrick, are central to the plot, whose blow-by-blow story keeps us gripped to the final revelation of Ada’s murderer . . . a must-read novel for anyone who loves historical fiction, art, detective stories, and the West Coast.” — Maggie Humm, author of Talland House Tour Giveaway Enter to win a paperback copy of The Artist Colony by Joanna FitzPatrick! There are 2 copies up for grabs! The giveaway is open to the U.S. only and ends September 24, 2021. You must be 18 or older to enter. Void where prohibited by law. This giveaway is sponsored by the author and hosted by Historical Fiction Virtual Book Tours. Thank you for visiting and reading! Feel inspired? Want others to experience the book magic? We hope you'll support this author by sharing with your friends. Have you read the book? Let us know your thoughts!

A Reader's Opinion The Rake of Hearts is an incredibly entertaining read. There is such a sweet and charming romance that blossoms between Ernest and Hebe. Redmond and Beatrice's affair was a treat to read as well. I found the characters' personalities a joy to read. The dialogue was easy to understand and I found it easy to follow along with the plot. There is a great deal of realism in the story thanks to the writer's detailed descriptions. There were a number of characters that brought some witty moments to the story, such as Beatrice, and the old man who ran the stables for Ernest father. This story kept me turning the pages, and left no room for boredom. For me, this was a very happily ever after love story. The Rake of Hearts A Lady to Suit, Book 2 When the heart is afire... By his own admission, Lord Ernest Brook is a rake. With sapphire gaze, sinfully handsome looks and a duke for a brother, the pleasures of London have come with ease...apart from one. Ever since the gauntlet of her first wintry dismissal was thrown, the widowed Hebe Locke has stirred his deepest desires, but just what would it take to woo such a woman? Sparks will fly. Hebe Locke has vowed to never again fall for a scoundrel after her brief marriage to one left her broken and haunted. Now she finds comfort with paintbrush and canvas, but as a female artist in a male world, commissions are as rare as a ballroom without rakes. A castle of enchantment. As the heat of late summer warms the land, an ancient, moated castle plays host to a widow and a rake, both concealing passions contrary to their reputations. But as Lord Ernest awakens Hebe's desire and thaws her frozen emotions, can she hold true to her vow? Or can this rake win the one heart he yearns for? Sensual Regency romance with warmth and wit, this tale also includes a disreputable aunt with a secondary love story, Cotswold country fairs, sinful masquerades and...a goat. BOOK INFO Genre: Historical Romance Release: August 23, 2021 Publisher: Senara Press Pages: 341pp Format Read: E-Book Source: Provided by the author or publisher Reviewed by: Rainelle Barrett Content Rating: 5 Hearts—Pull out your fans and grab a glass of ice cold water because this book is steaming hot! One or more graphic sex scenes. NOTE: Ratings are only provided for content (sex, violence, language, etc.). We do not give star ratings on this blog, though reviewers may do so on retail outlets and Goodreads. We review and share only those books we have enjoyed and think others will enjoy, too. Learn more .

A Reader's Opinion The Highlander’s Pirate Lass is an extraordinary read. The Heroine, Eliza, is unlike any character I've encountered before, and I found her fascinating. I loved her strong will and passion. She walks with her head high as her determination, drive, and ambition push her to become someone better for the people she loves. I believe her character is the most interesting of them all. Beck was just along for the ride. I love how the writer keeps the reader wrapped in the plot, so much so that you barely notice when the book ends. The story was intense and exciting moments kept popping up. There are also some heartwarming, romantic, and emotional moments. These moments had me not wanting the book to end. Beck and Eliza are two people who set the season on fire. I like how the writer portrays Eliza as a meek and mild woman, but once she strapped on those trousers, and stepped foot on the boat… day quickly became night. Eliza became the enemy’s nightmare. Beck didn’t know what to do. He could only chant, "Save my boat!" Beck wasn’t a simpleton himself. He walks with strong confidence and determination, until one day his eyes just so happen to land on the intriguing, beautiful Eliza. I enjoyed the constant back and forth of stubborn wills and conflicting emotions the two shared. These moments turned up the heat during a few intimate moments. I appreciate how the writer provided the Scottish and French dialogue, as well as the meaning of these words. This helped add to the realism of the story. The descriptive wording for many of the exciting, sometimes chaotic events in the book helped with the realism of the book too. For me, this book was a fabulous read. The action, along with the suspense and thrill of the hunt, made this a great read. Until next time my fellow readers… read on! The Highlander's Pirate Lass The Brothers of Wolf Isle, Book 2 Eliza Wentworth is no lady. After the notorious pirate Jandeau murdered her family, she vowed to spend the rest of her life at sea, saving others. She’d rather be firing cannons than embroidering pillows—or worse, bowing to the demands of a husband. But when she’s stranded on an island off the coast of Scotland, now she is the one in need of help. And, annoyingly, that help comes not only from a man, but a man she struggles to resist. Highlander Beck Macquarie has never met a woman like Eliza. He hasn’t met many women, period, thanks to the blasted curse set upon Wolf Isle decades ago. To save the clan, he needs a wife and bairns, and rough-around-the edges Eliza is anything but wife material. She has no intention of staying once she’s able to set sail again. He should let her go. But the desire between them is impossible to ignore. When she asks Beck to teach her the ways of the bedroom while she bides her time on his island, he can’t say no. As they learn more about each other, though, past trauma and secrets resurface. Now, Eliza must choose between the freedom and comfort of the only life she’s ever known and sacrificing it all to save the people she loves…including Beck. BOOK INFO Genre: Scottish Historical Romance Release: August 23, 2021 Publisher: Entangled: Scandalous Pages: 188pp Format Read: E-Book Source: Provided by the author or publisher Reviewed by: Rainelle Barrett Content Rating: 4 Hearts—We're getting hot in here! These characters know how to have a good time. Lucky for us, they don't go into too much detail. R—Descriptive Sex and Violence NOTE: Ratings are only provided for content (sex, violence, language, etc.). We do not give star ratings on this blog, though reviewers may do so on retail outlets and Goodreads. We review and share only those books we have enjoyed and think others will enjoy, too. Learn more .

A Reader's Opinion Her Wanton White is a most excellent read. The writer pulled me into the suspense that surrounded the love story between Justice and Violet. I was hooked from the beginning and the story kept me engaged to the very end. Thank you to the writer for allowing the readers to guesstimate the heroine’s age. For me, this made reading the intimate scenes more comfortable. I enjoyed the short reading time of the book. All aspects of the book were interesting to me, from the characters' personalities to the suspense surrounding Justice and his family. The language was a little darker from the writer's previous books, but I think the dark language fits perfectly with this book. The story between Violet and her father had me at the end of my seat praying that things would turn out right for the family. Sayden's witty banter was truly entertaining, and I enjoyed the character. What a great read! I look forward to the next book from this series. Her Wanton White Dark Duke's Legacy, Book 4 He’s sworn never to marry… Lord Justice White isn’t the settle down type of man. He’s a fighter, a drinker, and a rake through and through. But when he takes on the villain threatening his family, a beautiful and innocent debutante is caught in the crossfire. As sweet as Lady Violet is tempting, Justice doesn’t want her for himself. Absolutely not. But he can’t quite allow her to fall victim either. Will the decency deep within him rise to the surface or will the darkness from his past swallow him forever? BOOK INFO Genre: Historical Romance Mystery Release: September 14, 2021 Publisher: Swift Romance Publishing Corp Pages: 136pp Format Read: E-Book Source: Provided by the author or publisher Reviewed by: Rainelle Barrett Content Rating: 5 Hearts—Pull out your fans and grab a glass of ice cold water because this book is steaming hot! One or more graphic sex scenes. NOTE: Ratings are only provided for content (sex, violence, language, etc.). We do not give star ratings on this blog, though reviewers may do so on retail outlets and Goodreads. We review and share only those books we have enjoyed and think others will enjoy, too. Learn more .

Congratulations to Linda Broday, author of A Cowboy Christmas Legend , winner of the August 2021 Readers' Choice Cover Contest! Thank you to all those who voted and supported the wonderful authors and their books! Want to keep helping authors? Share this post and their books with your friends! A little book love goes a long way. Vote in the new cover contest > BOOK INFO Title: A Cowboy Christmas Legend Author: Linda Broday Series: Lone Star Legends, Book 2 Genre: Historical Western Romance/Holiday Release: September 28, 2021

Voting is open for the September 2021 book cover contest. View the finalists, support these terrific authors, and c ast your vote on the cover contest page.

A Reader's Opinion A haunting and superbly written paranormal romance! Mariana by Susanna Kearsley may have paranormal elements in the form of time travel and ghosts, but it's written so flawlessly that one minute the reader is in the present-day and the next they are transported back to the 17th-century with Mariana. I'll say right off that I'm not usually a fan of time travel elements in books because too often I feel jerked from one century to the next—not so with this book. Ms. Kearsley's writing style is so flawless, with an almost silk-like smoothness that moves the reader from one page to the next. Julia Beckett is an illustrator of children's and fantasy books, a career choice and talent which enables her to live where she wants. With the help of a small inheritance, she purchases an old farmhouse she's coveted from the days of her youth. Little did Julia realize that there's more to the farmhouse, and her connection with it, than she could have ever imagined. Ms. Kearsley weaves romance elegantly throughout the story so that it balances perfectly with the paranormal, history, and every-day contemporary elements. Although some of the secondary characters are more integral to the story than others, the likes of Geoff, Iain, Vivien, Freda, and Julia's brother, Tom, all add depth, drama, and even frivolity to the book. I was so engrossed and attached to the characters that I fretted the ending would not turn out as I had hoped. Of course the author didn't disappoint and surprised me with the perfect ending to a beautiful story. Enthralled with every nuance of Mariana , I cannot recommend enough the books of Susanna Kearsley. Mariana When Julia Beckett moves into a beautiful old farmhouse, she soon discovers she's not alone there. She encounters haunting remnants of a beautiful young woman who lived and loved there centuries ago. Julia finds herself transported into 17th-century England, and into the world of Mariana. Each time Julia travels back, she becomes more enthralled with the past... until she realizes Mariana's life is eclipsing her own. She must lay the past to rest or risk losing the chance for happiness in her own time. With heartbreaking romance, escapist fantasy, and powerfully drawn characters, Kearsley takes you on a time-traveling journey you'll never forget. BOOK INFO Genre: Multi-Genre Fiction/Time-Travel Romance/Paranormal Release: April 1, 2012 Publisher: Sourcebooks Landmark Pages: 382pp Format Read: Paperback Source: Reader's personal library Reviewed by: MK Content Rating: 2 Hearts—Our hearts are aflutter. This author knows how to turn up the heat with some passionate kisses. Nothing graphic here! NOTE: Ratings are only provided for content (sex, violence, language, etc.). We do not give star ratings on this blog, though reviewers may do so on retail outlets and Goodreads. We review and share only those books we have enjoyed and think others will enjoy, too. Learn more . This book was reviewed on the original Books & Benches site, and has been reposted on the new blog for indexing purposes, and to give new life to an older book. Star ratings are removed from reposted reviews.

Enjoy a glimpse into Anna Belfrage's time-travel Scottish romance, The Whirlpools of Time . The Whirlpools of Time He hoped for a wife. He found a companion through time and beyond. It is 1715 and for Duncan Melville something fundamental is missing from his life. Despite a flourishing legal practice and several close friends, he is lonely, even more so after the recent death of his father. He needs a wife—a companion through life, someone to hold and be held by. What he wasn’t expecting was to be torn away from everything he knew and find said woman in 2016… Erin Barnes has a lot of stuff going on in her life. She doesn’t need the additional twist of a stranger in weird outdated clothes, but when he risks his life to save hers, she feels obligated to return the favour. Besides, whoever Duncan may be, she can’t exactly deny the immediate attraction. The complications in Erin’s life explode. Events are set in motion and to Erin’s horror she and Duncan are thrown back to 1715. Not only does Erin have to cope with a different and intimidating world, soon enough she and Duncan are embroiled in a dangerous quest for Duncan’s uncle, a quest that may very well cost them their lives as they travel through a Scotland poised on the brink of rebellion. Will they find Duncan’s uncle in time? And is the door to the future permanently closed, or will Erin find a way back? Enjoy an Excerpt from The Whirlpools of Time He had thought he dreamt her, but when he woke she was still there, smiling at him. He managed to smile back, no matter that it hurt to do so. She fiddled with her hair, a mass of curls the colour of rich maple syrup. Lovely skin, he thought fuzzily, a shade or so lighter than her hair. And her eyes…Green, he decided, yes, a golden green. Lovely eyes. He licked his lips. Lovely eyes, lovely skin, lovely hair, lovely lady. Erin, he reminded himself, her name was Erin. “Good morning,” she said. “Miss Barnes.” He gave her a nod. “Erin. Miss Barnes makes me sound like some old schoolteacher.” It made him smile: the notion of a female teacher was utterly ludicrous. “And you are not a schoolteacher?” There was a small scar just to the left of her cupid’s bow and he wondered what had caused it. “Me?” She laughed. “No way.” She leaned forward and her round bosoms brushed his arm. “The police want to talk to you.” “Police?” he croaked, staring at how her pulse jumped in the hollow of her throat. What might that be? “You need to make a statement.” Statement? A strand of her hair tickled his skin and he suppressed the desire to wind it round his finger. This close, her hair was a mass of colours, from that deep syrupy colour to a golden honey. “They want your version of events,” she continued, lowering her voice. She glanced towards the door and leaned that much closer. “Don’t mention the sword, okay? I think it might complicate things.” He almost laughed. Best not complicate matters more than they already were. “Why?” “Why what?” Her breath caressed his cheek, and this up close he could see a smattering of dark freckles on her nose. “Why do they need a…a…statement?” She smelled of something sweet, a discreet fragrance that had him thinking of warm evenings under blossoming apple trees. “Because they can’t take my word for it.” “No?” He struggled to sit. “Why not?” She sighed. “They need someone else to corroborate what happened.” “Ah.” He mulled this over, concluding that the police must be the equivalent of the constables in his time. “And—” “Awake?” someone said. A large man entered the room. “What are you doing here?” he asked Erin. “Visiting.” She stood. “Don’t go!” Duncan tried to take her hand. “Dylan here wants to talk to you alone.” Erin smiled at him. “I’ll be back as soon as he’s gone.” Duncan followed her out of the room with his gaze before turning his attention to the man now seated beside him. “I’m Dylan Clarkson.” He held up something. Duncan peered at the displayed document. A depiction of this Dylan, stating he was a Maryland Police Officer. “Duncan,” Duncan said. “Duncan Melville.” “And you’re from where?” Duncan gave him a helpless look. “No notion. I cannot recall much more than my name and that terrible lightning storm.” He shivered. “Hmm,” Clarkson said, scribbling something in his notebook. No quill, Duncan noted, instead an implement that looked like a pencil of sorts. “And this so-called attack? Do you remember anything of that?” “I do.” Duncan straightened up, ignoring the twinge in his ribs. “Nothing so-called about it. Out of nowhere, three men appeared and attempted to abduct a young woman.” “The young woman being Erin Barnes?” “Aye.” She didn’t look like a Barnes. She looked like someone who should have a far more exotic name, something like Figueroa or Hernandez. He’d seen women as beautiful as her before, usually on one or other of the plantations belonging to the Jones family. Women of mixed heritage, their mother slaves, their fathers their masters or the white overseers and he knew for a fact that many of those women ended up in brothels, their beauty fading as the years and an endless line of eager men took their toll. “Known her long?” the officer asked. “Who?” “Erin.” “No. As I recall, she was helping me regain my feet at that crossroads when those rogues showed up.” “Rogues?” The officer snickered. “So, what happened?” It did not take long. Duncan described what had happened, omitting any mention of his sword, was somewhat taken aback when the officer scowled at him and told him to stop playing Superman. “Next time you see three men attacking a woman call 911.” “Eh?” “You shouldn’t interfere. Could get you killed.” “If I hadn’t interfered, Miss Barnes—Erin—might not have been here.” “Hmm.” Clarkson his lip. “Can you identify these men?” “I can.” Duncan sank back against the pillows. “Here.” Something landed in Duncan’s lap. Some sort of large book, bound in stiff covers. He opened it and almost threw it to the floor. What sort of magic was this? Page after page of grim human faces stared up at him, remarkably lifelike. He’d never seen likenesses such as these before, amazed at the detail, the colours. “What, you’ve never seen photos before?” Clarkson asked, studying him intently. “Of course I have,” Duncan lied, making an effort to stop staring at the glossy likenesses. “But I have never seen such a collection of unsavoury characters.” “Yeah, because where you come from you’re all good law-abiding citizens, right?” Clarkson sneered. “I don’t remember where I come from,” Duncan snapped, congratulating himself on not having walked into that trap. He turned the pages, transfixed by all these faces. A nasty lot, truth be told. Unsmiling faces, men whose features spoke of a capacity for violence. He turned one more page and there was one of the men. “This one,” he said. “He was there.” He found the other two a couple of pages further in. The constable—no, police officer—sighed, wrote some more and reclaimed the large book. “Thanks, you really made my day,” he muttered as he made for the door. End of Excerpt. Excerpt Copyright © Anna Belfrage. Shared with permission. The Author Had Anna Belfrage been allowed to choose, she’d have become a time-traveller. As this was impossible, she became a financial professional with two absorbing interests: history and writing. Anna has authored the acclaimed time travelling series The Graham Saga, set in 17th century Scotland and Maryland, as well as the equally acclaimed medieval series The King’s Greatest Enemy which is set in 14th century England. More recently, Anna has published The Wanderer, a fast-paced contemporary romantic suspense trilogy with paranormal and time-slip ingredients. While she loved stepping out of her comfort zone (and will likely do so again ) she is delighted to be back in medieval times in her September 2020 release, His Castilian Hawk. Set against the complications of Edward I’s invasion of Wales, His Castilian Hawk is a story of loyalty, integrity—and love. Find out more about Anna on her website or on her Amazon page . You can also follow her on Facebook or Twitter . Genre: Historical Romance/Scottish/Time Travel Series: The Locket, Book One Release: June 11, 2021 Publisher: Timelight Press Type: Novel Content Rating: 5 Hearts/R View our rating system Tour Giveaway Enter to win a copy of The Whirlpools of Time by Anna Belfrage! Two copies are up for grabs! The giveaway is open internationally and ends on September 29, 2021. You must be 18 or older to enter. Void where prohibited by law. This giveaway is sponsored by the author and hosted by Historical Fiction Virtual Book Tours. Thank you for visiting and reading! Feel inspired? Want others to experience the book magic? We hope you'll support this author by sharing with your friends. Have you read the book? Let us know your thoughts!

Deflecting the Duke Accused of something they never did. Five boys banished from their homes in disgrace, to the place where they find the brothers of their heart—and build new family ties that will last a lifetime. An angry army spy who becomes a reluctant duke. A virgin widow who seeks a husband who will give her children. An attraction that leads to passion . . . and love . . . Wyatt Stanton served as a spy for Wellington until he receives word of his brother’s death. Reluctantly, he returns to England as the Duke of Amesbury and to Amberwood, a place he once loved and was banished from after his brother falsely accused Wyatt of burning down the family stables with over two dozen horses inside. His soul seared by war, the man who lived for danger must now become a member of Polite Society and find himself a duchess so he has an heir. Meadow Grant’s father sold her to Lord Selfridge so he could pay his gambling debts. Selfridge collects beautiful things, and Meadow is the most beautiful girl of the Season. Once he possessed her, Selfridge lost interest and moved on to other things. Now a widow, the resilient Meadow is ready to make her own choice this time and find a husband who yearns for children as much as she does. Though attracted to the Duke of Amesbury, he is far too arrogant and conceited for her tastes, even if he does kiss well. Wyatt is bored with all the younger women on the Marriage Mart, but he believes the beautiful and more mature Lady Selfridge fits his idea of a suitable duchess. The fact that he is attracted to her and she gets along well with his friends only confirms she is the one. Meadow wants to be courted, though, and Wyatt is up to the challenge, relentless in his pursuit, even liking how Meadow makes him work to earn her favor. Though neither looks for love, will the reckless Wyatt and spitfire Meadow realize love has found them and will flourish, given the chance? Amazon Meet the Author Award-winning and internationally bestselling author Alexa Aston lives with her husband in a Dallas suburb, where she eats her fair share of dark chocolate and plots out stories while she walks every morning. She’s a binge fiend (The Crown and Ozark are favorites) who enjoys travel, sports, and time with her family. Her historical romances bring to life loveable rogues and dashing knights, while her contemporary romances are light and flirty and sometimes contain a bit of suspense. Her series include Dukes of Distinction, Soldiers & Soulmates, Lawmen of the West, Hollywood Name Game, The St. Clairs, Knights of Honor, The King's Cousins, The de Wolfes of Esterley Castle, Sagebrush Brides, and Dukes Gone Wrong. Website: alexaaston.com Genre: Historical Romance Type: Novel Series: Dukes Gone Wrong, book 2 Publication date: August 24, 2021 Content Rating: 5 Hearts View rating system

A Reader's Opinion Beneath the suspense and romance is a message of overcoming grief and survival. It's been a long time since I've read a Harlequin book, and I'm glad my return was with First Responders on Deadly Ground by Colleen Thompson. She really made me care about the characters and what they were going through and trying to achieve. They felt real, and I liked their imperfections as much as their strengths. The action keeps going from the first page, and leaves the reader with a satisfying ending. If you're a fan of romantic suspense that is easy-to-read and leaves you wanting more, then try First Responders on Deadly Ground . First Responders on Deadly Ground A disaster drew them close …and now they're in inescapable danger. Ever since a powerful family destroyed his mother's life, helicopter paramedic Jude Castleman has burned for justice. Only now, working with widowed flight nurse Callie Fielding, does it seem possible. Discovering they are both linked to the same fatal chopper crash, the grief-stricken pair embark on a high-risk plan of revenge and closure…as they try to resist their even riskier attraction. From Harlequin Romantic Suspense: Danger. Passion. Drama. BOOK INFO Genre: Romantic Suspense Pub: August 24, 2021 Format Read: E-book Source: Provided by the author or publisher Reviewed by: MK Content Rating: 4 Hearts—We're getting hot in here! These characters know how to have a good time. Lucky for us, they don't go into too much detail. NOTE: Ratings are only provided for content (sex, violence, language, etc.). We do not give star ratings on this blog, though individual reviewers may do so on retail outlets, BookBub, and Goodreads. We review and share only those books we have enjoyed and think others will enjoy, too. Learn more .

Pamela Gibson joins us for an interview and a peek at Scandal's Deception , the fourth novel in her enchanting and entertaining Scandal series. Scandal's Deception Jane Stafford, raised in America, is shocked to learn she is a wealthy heiress, her late father was an earl, and her English mother is alive. Anxious to meet the woman she long-thought dead, she travels to London, only to be whisked away by her sinfully handsome guardian to a remote estate to be “schooled” in the ways of the ton. Gilbert Carmichael, Lord Ralston, chafes at having to make a rebellious young heiress acceptable to society, especially one who is impetuous and blatantly democratic. Because the instruction she needs is more than deportment and dancing. It’s also about how to spot a rake who might woo her for her fortune. When Ralston learns his ward is to be used as a pawn in an elaborate scheme involving a secret impersonation, he will move heaven and earth to keep her safe. Because proximity has brought the uncomfortable knowledge that his interest may be more than duty—it just might be love. Q&A with author Pamela Gibson What compelled you to write this particular story? I’m fascinated by all the tropes available and have “tried out” several during the course of my writing career. This story is what we call a “fish out of water” story about someone taken out of their comfortable environment and thrust into one that seems alien to them. I call it my “Parent Trap” meets “My Fair Lady” story. For those not familiar, Parent Trap was an old film about twins who never knew about the other, who meet at summer camp and when camp ends, they trade places. The father lived in America, and their mother in England. When they divorced, each took a twin. My Fair Lady is about a street woman groomed to be a lady, but you all know that story. This is Regency, the fourth book in my Scandal series, so I had a lot of research to do. I relied heavily on books about the life of Betsy Hamilton and Dolley Madison, before their husbands were famous, to imagine what life was like for an American woman just before and after the War of 1812. I can tell you it was quite different from the life of a woman raised in London society. When Jane, my heroine is sent to England, she is bewildered by all the rules. When she finally meets her twin, she is astonished to find even more surprises await. What do you hope readers will take away from Scandal's Deception ? First, I hope it entertains, and second, I hope it informs, and third, I hope it inspires. I’m going to talk about the “inspiration” part. The theme of this book is simple: if you believe in yourself, everything will come right in the end. It’s attributed to the heroine’s housekeeper and close friend, Maddie, in Chapter One, when Jane’s father has died and she is thinking about her fate. She remembers Maddie’s advice about grief, and it ends with the following words. “Everything comes right if you believe in yourself.” Throughout the book, my heroine is met with challenges. Every obstacle put in her path is a learning experience and even in her darkest moments, she relies on herself because she believes all will be right if she does. I think we all need this reminder. It’s easy to give up when a situation seems hopeless. I grew up thinking everything happens for a purpose and if we continue to believe in our own abilities to grown, learn, and survive, all will be right. I still do. Give us insight into your main character. What does he do that is so special? My hero, Gabriel Carmichael, Lord Ralston, is a minor character from the previous book. He’s a fixer, a no-nonsense type who calls out his best friend’s addiction to laudanum in Scandal’s Promise, stands by him as he fights it, and later helps him locate his son who has been abducted. In Scandal’s Deception , Ralston discovers he is the guardian of two young ladies. The girls’ father thought he was naming Ralston’s namesake father, who is deceased. But Gilbert never shirks a duty and takes up the task, knowing the young women are nearly twenty, the English girl will soon receive a proposal, and the American one—well, he’ll help her navigate the shark-infested waters of the ton. He’s also a protector, and wants to keep the unusually independent American from damaging her reputation. When he fails, he does what “duty” dictates. What he doesn’t realize is duty isn’t his primary motivation. He’s fallen in love. He’s one of my favorite characters. Do you have to be alone or have quiet to write? It’s funny because my first response is yes, I need quiet. Most of my writing is done on my living room sofa, a pillow at my back, laptop on my crossed leg, cat next to me in his bed. Yet, when I look back, I’ve only written like this since my husband’s stroke. I now need to be nearby in case he needs something. In the past I wrote at a noisy coffee house and even did a write-in in a casino restaurant. I found I was able to tune out the noise and concentrate on what I was doing. I’ve written on a moving boat and in the grandstand keeping an eye on my son’s baseball practice. I once proofread a galley in the car when my husband was driving on an interstate with cars whizzing by. So the answer is no. I don’t need to be alone. I don’t need quiet. But that’s what I get now, and frankly, I’ve been a lot more productive. Why did you choose to write historical romance? If you write in others, how do you balance them? I discovered Regency romance when I was pregnant with my first child. That’s when I began to devour books by Mary Balogh, Georgette Heyer, Barbara Cartland, and a few others. I also liked gothic novels, especially Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte and the Mary Stewart historicals. When I began writing, many years later, you’d think I would try to write the kinds of books I read the most. Nope. My first series was Love in Wine Country, six novels featuring cousins: three girls, three guys. These were contemporaries because my writing friends told me to start with something I know. I lived in the Napa-Sonoma area, dabbled in wine-making, and the series was born. My first Regency followed—I really wanted to write these—and I also have an Early California Rancho period series (think Zorro). This last series came from my love of California history, a subject that was my college major. If you count my Love in Wine Country novellas, I’ve written 18 books altogether. The novellas began life as part of Marina Adair’s St. Helena Kindle World, now defunct. The rights were returned, settings and character names changed, and voila. These are now set in a fictional town on the Sonoma Coast and I occasionally add to this world. Otherwise I plan to stick to historicals. Books & Benches: Thank you so much, Pamela, for sharing more about your writing and Scandal's Deception . Gabriel sounds like a fabulous hero for a novel! The Author Author of eight books on California history and seventeen romance novels, Pamela Gibson is a former City Manager who now lives in the Nevada desert. She has a bachelor's degree in history and a master's degree in public administration, but her passion is and always has been writing. Having spent three years messing about in boats, a hobby that included a five-thousand-mile trip in a 32-foot Nordic Tug, she now spends most of her time indoors happily reading, writing, cooking and keeping up with the antics of Ralph, her Siamese rescue cat. If you want to learn more about her activities go to https://www.pamelagibsonwrites.com and sign up for her blog and quarterly newsletter. Genre: Historical Regency Romance Series: Scandal Series, Book 4 Release: July 21, 2021 Pages: 236pp Publisher: Soul Mate Publishing LLC Type: Novel Content Rating: 4 Hearts View our rating system Tour Giveaway Enter to win a $25 Amazon Gift Card! The giveaway is open to US only and ends on August 27, 2021. You must be 18 or older to enter. Void where prohibited by law. This giveaway is sponsored by the author and hosted by Historical Fiction Virtual Book Tours. Thank you for visiting and reading! Feel inspired? Want others to experience the book magic? We hope you'll support this author by sharing with your friends. Have you read the book? Let us know your thoughts!

A Reader's Opinion Civil War romance at its best! Talented author Elizabeth St. Michel continues her Civil War Surrender Series with her third novel Surrender the Storm . The story follows two charming characters: Ryan, known as ‘Gray Ghost,’ and Grace, who were once enemies but became lovers. Rich in history, with a wonderful storyline, Surrender the Storm is a well-written romance about endearing men and women you will love. The writer wove together a story with all the elements of a classic American Civil War story. This is one book you will definitely want to read. St. Michel has outdone herself with the third book in her beloved series. This book made me cry, laugh, and smile as I followed the emotional journey, and it is sure to tug at your heart! 1864 Northern Border of Virginia Rebel Colonel Ryan Rourke, the notorious Gray Ghost, is on a mission to find a doctor to help his men seriously injured during battle. Except, this is a mission that will turn his world upside down. Dr. Grace Barrett travels with a group of nuns and decides to disguise herself as one of them, to hide her true identity and a dark secret from her past. That's when Ryan decides to kidnap her! But as she is held captive, they share secrets, grow closer, and start feeling strong emotions for each other. Can she trust him enough not to reveal her dark secret? Will he forgive her for it? From the start, they were meant to be together, even with all the obstacles they had to face. A really beautiful story. Surrender the Storm The International Award-Winning author continues her Civil War Surrender Series with this romance following two defiant hearts clashing over a desperate battle of wills in the glorious age of chivalry. Stealing Beauty Rebel Colonel Ryan Rourke, the notorious Gray Ghost, is the scourge of the North, incensing Grant’s army at every turn. After suffering a horrible defeat that left many of his men dead, Colonel Ryan will stop at nothing to win—including kidnapping a group of nuns en route to give medical succor to the Yanks. With one of his men critically injured, he needs the medicine and supplies the nuns carry. He is also informed that the youngest nun is a doctor. But one look into the violet eyes of the stunningly beautiful Yankee nun fills him with sensual thoughts and longing for the forbidden. Courting Desire Dr. Grace Barrett can never reveal her true identity. Disguised as one of the Sisters of Charity, she possesses a dangerous secret that threatens her very life. Being held captive by Ryan proves to be the only way Grace can remain safe from those who would see her hanged. But boldly she challenges Ryan’s will—until he takes her into his powerful embrace, awakening an irresistible hunger. But under his penetrating gaze, neither Grace’s body or her heart are safe. And too late, she finds herself ensnared in a seductive trap of pride and passion, loyalty and lies. As the storm of war rages around them, both will fight the tempest in their souls to clear a path to their hearts. BOOK INFO Genre: Historical American Romance/Civil War Release: July 14, 2021 Type: Novel Format Read: E-Book Source: Reviewer's Personal Library Reviewed by: Nicole Laverdure Content Rating: 5 Hearts—Pull out your fans and grab a glass of ice cold water because this book is steaming hot! One or more graphic sex scenes. NOTE: Ratings are only provided for content (sex, violence, language, etc.). We do not give star ratings on this blog, though reviewers may do so on retail outlets and Goodreads. We review and share only those books we have enjoyed and think others will enjoy, too. Learn more .