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A Reader's Opinion Atmospheric, mysterious, and romantic, Sarah E. Ladd's The Light at Wyndcliff, delivers a soothing escape with interesting characters and a beautiful setting. Sweeping across the wild coast, the third book in Ladd's Cornwall series offers a slow-build to a tender romance between Liam and Evelyn, but she doesn't stop there. There is a nice little mystery of events mixed in to create an engaging tale that draws the reader in and captures the heart. Her settings are depicted so well that I walked along the beach, stood on the cliffs, witnessed a shipwreck, and even ventured into the village right alongside the characters. Readers of heartfelt historical romance will enjoy Ladd's ability to transport them to another time and place. I can always count on Ladd to to deliver a wonderful story, and she never disappoints. The Cornwall series, with its crisp writing and sweet romance is sure to delight the discerning reader. The Light at Wyndcliff A Cornwall Novel Perfect for fans of Poldark and Bridgerton, this Regency romance evokes the captivating worlds and delightful dramas as treacherous to navigate as the rocky English shores. Cornwall, England, 1820 Raised on the sprawling and rugged Wyndcliff Estate near the dangerous coast of South Cornwall, Evelyn Bray lives with her grandfather, a once-wealthy man now reduced to the post of steward. Evelyn is still grieving her father’s death and her mother’s abandonment when a passing ship is dashed against the rocks. Liam Twethewey is a mere two and twenty when he inherits Wyndcliff Estate from his great uncle. His optimistic plans to employ the estate’s tenants meets unexpected resistance, and rumors of smuggling and illegal activity challenge his newfound authority. Brought together by troubling questions surrounding the shipwreck, Evelyn and Liam uncover even darker mysteries shrouding the estate. But as they untangle truth from deception, their loyalties separate them—and their budding love might not be strong enough to overcome the distance. Amazon | Bookshop Book Info Genre: Historical Christian Romance/Regency Release: October 13, 2020 Pages: 313pp Publisher: Thomas Nelson Format Read: Paperback Source: Reader's personal library Reviewed by: MK Content Rating: 1 Heart—Aww! We love those sweet, clean kisses. This is a clean read appropriate for all audiences. 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 Oh, wow! What a fun and refreshing adventure! I adored Spinster Sister by Elise Marion. I devoured this book, and I will surely follow her and the rest of this series. It’s a fast-paced romance with twists and turns. I love reading stories about beautiful women with roundness who accept themselves and love the way they are. I liked that Helena, the heroine, wasn’t insecure about her weight at all and the hero Sebastian loved her dearly. I'm so happy the author decided to touch on this delicate subject. This is a beautiful debut for her new Lawless Ladies series. Spinster Sister tells the story of five women who are desperately in need of money for their families, and decide to concoct a scheme and become masked highway women. They learn to shoot guns and rob carriages by moonlight. With only these clues to start, this fun adventure is a real page-turner, and has some really cute scenes. I could not put it down! Sebastian is a sweet gentleman and wants a special lady to become his wife. However, when they meet, they have a rocky start when Helena finds Sebastian to be arrogant . . . but he falls for her. Will her secret actions ruin her chance for a bright future with him? Will he understand why she did it? Will he lose her forever? Is their love strong enough to survive her secret past? Find out in Spinster Sister . Spinster Sister Lawless Ladies, Book 1 He never thought to wed for love. He never anticipated her. Welcome to book 1 in the new and exciting series from bestselling author Elise Marion. Helena Montgomery is left to care for her siblings after the deaths of her parents. Buried under a pile of debt, she has no choice but to join her friends in a dangerous scheme. Moonlighting as a masked highwayman is a sure way to end up facing the hangman, but there is nothing Helena wouldn’t do for those she loves. Besides, she only intends to continue her illegal activities until her sister’s first season yields an advantageous marriage. Lord Sebastian Radcliffe doesn’t want a wife, but must select one to secure his family legacy. The young, beautiful Harriett Montgomery seems like the perfect choice—yet Sebastian finds himself drawn instead to her elder sister. He never expected to marry for love, yet the vivacious Helena quickly burrows her way past his stony façade and straight into his heart. He thinks her a high-handed shrew; she thinks him a self-righteous bore. Yet, passion kindles between this unlikely pair, leaving them hopeful that the futures they once thought impossible might be within reach. However, the damaging secret of Helena’s crimes hangs over her head, forcing her to keep Sebastian at arm’s length. Despite her best efforts, she is unable to deny the depth of her feelings. Amazon Book Info Genre: Historical Romance Release: July 29, 2021 Publisher: Dragonblade Publishing Format Read: E-Book Source: Provided by the author or publisher via NetGalley 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 .

A Reader's Opinion A beautiful and inspiring story of forgiveness, love, and faith. One of my favorite things about A Defense of Honor is the unique take on a too-common occurrence during historical periods. The Regency era is a favorite of mine, and it's nice to read something different. Kristi Ann Hunter's delightful prose, interesting characters, and inspiring faith gave this book a wonderful foundation upon which she created a beautiful story. All of the characters are easy to like. Kit has so much to offer the world if only she would allow herself to forgive the mistakes of her past. She's strong and true, and her journey is inspiring. Graham is an absolute delight. I don't always have a favorite between hero and heroine in a book, but Graham rose to the top with his boyish charm, chivalry, and loyalty to family and friends. I easily pictured his smiling face every time something excited him. There were a few moments when I questioned his behavior and thought he needed to come down off his pedestal, but he redeemed himself. There are elements of faith woven into the story, though more toward the end when talking of God and scripture becomes more prominent. I appreciate the realistic struggle the characters went through in terms of questioning themselves, their actions, and their ability to forgive, along with accepting and overcoming their imperfections. Perhaps a person needs to be in the right mindset to fully appreciate all the underlying messages. I know I did. The book is definitely written for Christian readers, but I think it's a nice story for any reader who enjoys a wholesome and inspiring historical romance. The secondary characters of Daphne and Jess, who help run Haven Manor, were equally interesting, and I look forward to their books A Defense of Honor Haven Manor, Book 1 When Katherine "Kit" FitzGilbert turned her back on London society more than a decade ago, she determined never to set foot in a ballroom again. But when business takes her to London and she's forced to run for her life, she stumbles upon not only a glamorous ballroom but also Graham, Lord Wharton. What should have been a chance encounter becomes much more as Graham embarks on a search for his friend's missing sister and is convinced Kit knows more about the girl than she's telling. After meeting Graham, Kit finds herself wishing things could have been different for the first time in her life, but what she wants can't matter. Long ago, she dedicated herself to helping women escape the same scorn that drove her from London and raising the innocent children caught in the crossfire. And as much as she desperately wishes to tell Graham everything, revealing the truth isn't worth putting him and everyone she loves in danger. Amazon | Bookshop Book Info Genre: Regency Christian Romance Release: June 5, 2018 Pages: 386pp Publisher: Bethany House Publishers Format Read: Paperback Source: From the reader's personal library Reviewed by: MK Content Rating: 1 Heart—Aww! We love those sweet, clean kisses. This is a clean read appropriate for all audiences. 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 A lovely romance filled with charm! LOVED BY A DANGEROUS DUKE, written by Collette Cameron, is a lovely romance because of the tension and chemistry between the hero and heroine. I have no doubt her characters will make you laugh and giggle as they communicate together, and there are times when they will catch your heart. When these two finally give up fighting and accept the feelings they have for each other, sparks burst everywhere! Stanford, known as The Dangerous Duke, is a man who always has his way. He inherits a bankrupt duchy and it is finally time for him to find a duchess, but the one he desires does not want it at all. Ophelia is a determined woman who knows what she wants and she certainly doesn’t want him. However, life has a way of showing one their true path. She becomes compromised and she must now marry the man, whom she intends not to fall in love with. Is she lying to herself? Stanford’s past is resurfacing while Ophelia is in danger. Will this event bring them closer or tore them apart? Is their love strong enough to survive all these assaults? This is the 13th story for the Seductive Scoundrels series. Loved by a Dangerous Duke Is she desperate enough to marry a man she loathes? Sadly, yes… He always has his way… Stanford is aware of his nickname, The Dangerous Duke—and it suits him just fine. Inheriting a bankrupt dukedom and rebuilding it taught him just how useless niceties were. Except now, he’s ready to choose a duchess, and the only one he deems suitable (and enticing) enough despises him. Perhaps he should reconsider the value of niceties… She’s a most reluctant bride… Ophelia Breckensole knows what she wants, and it is not Stanford. But fate plays into his hand when she finds herself unwittingly compromised. Now, she must wed or face ruination—and Stanford is only too pleased to help. So, she’ll marry him, but she won’t love him. Or so she keeps telling herself… But Stanford and Ophelia have much more to overcome on their path to happily ever after than his austere nature and her vow to never love her husband. Stanford’s enemies are determined to make him pay for his past, and they’re willing to use Ophelia to do it. Can this fragile union survive such an onslaught? Get Your Copy Historical Romance | Pub: July 20, 2021 Format Read: E-book | Source: Provided by the author Reviewed by: Nicole Laverdure | Content/Steam Rating:* 4 Hearts *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 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 A bewitching series like no other! CITY OF TIME AND MAGIC, written by talented author Paula Brackston, is time spinning and enchanting romance at its best! Brackston has outdone herself to captivate her readers with this mysterious, suspenseful and magical work of fiction. Ms. Brackston nicely blended her beautiful characters, especially the main heroine Xanthe, into a time-travel journey filled with surprises. You won't be disappointed. I'm truly a fan of her work. Last time, Xanthe's boyfriend Liam was taken away by Mistress Flyte. For those who may not know, Xanthe is a time spinner who has a special gift; she hears ‘things singing to her’ which means someone needs her help and she'll have to time-travel to find them. She needs to find special antiques that will whisper to her. This time, Xanthe meets an old man who offers three pieces that intrigue her so much, including a writing box, a hatpin, and a piece of mourning jewelry. Each treasure will sing to her and send her on a journey filled with interesting twists and conflicts. We also meet Erasmus Balmoral, a time stepper. But who is the mysterious old man who sold her the antiques? During her journey, she meets the Visionary Society, a group of evil spinners who want to change the future. Does she have the skills to fight them and rescue Liam? You’ll have to read City of Time and Magic if you want answers! If you love Ms. Brackston's novels, then you will enjoy the crossover of some of the characters from her previous books. I like the fact that she has done quite a bit of research in finding antique pieces that helped to create her Found Things universe. I greatly enjoyed this spellbinding story and had fun following the fierce and brave heroine Xanthe. City of Time and Magic A Found Things Novel Paula Brackston's City of Time and Magic is the next installment in the time-traveling Found Things Series. City of Time and Magic sees Xanthe face her greatest challenges yet. She must choose from three treasures that sing to her; a beautiful writing slope, a mourning brooch of heartbreaking detail, and a gorgeous gem-set hat pin. All call her, but the wrong one could take her on a mission other than that which she must address first, and the stakes could not be higher. While her earlier mission to Regency England had been a success, the journey home resulted in Liam being taken from her, spirited away to another time and place. Xanthe must follow the treasure that will take her to him if he is not to be lost forever. Xanthe is certain that Mistress Flyte has Liam and determined to find them both. But when she discovers Lydia Flyte has been tracking the actions of the Visionary Society, a group of ruthless and unscrupulous Spinners who have been selling their talents to a club of wealthy clients, Xanthe realizes her work as a Spinner must come before her personal wishes. The Visionary Society is highly dangerous and directly opposed to the creed of the Spinners. Their actions could have disastrous consequences as they alter the authentic order of things and change the future. Xanthe knows she must take on the Society. It will require the skills of all her friends, old and new, to attempt such a thing, and not all of them will survive the confrontation that follows. Amazon | Bookshop Historical Fantasy Fiction | Pub: Nov 16, 2021 | 320pp | St. Martin's Press Format Read: E-book | Source: Provided by the publisher via NetGalley Reviewed by: Nicole Laverdure | Content Rating:* 1 Heart - N/A *1 Heart: Aww! We love those sweet, clean kisses. This is a clean read appropriate for all audiences. N/A: No Sex; No 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 .

We are excited to welcome J'Nell Ciesielski to Books & Benches! We're going to get to know J'nell a bit, plus learn more about her stunning book, The Ice Swan . It's always better to hear directly from the author, so without further ado . . . Go to: About the Book | Meet the Author | Giveaway In the author's words . . . Q&A with J'nell Ciesielski What makes The Ice Swan special or unique to you? Can you give us a little story behind the story? I wanted to write something different, a story about the Great War era that we haven’t read yet and I found it while watching a Russian miniseries called Road to Calvary. It’s about two Russian aristocratic sisters and how they manage through the war, the Revolution, the Bolshevik takeover, and love. The tragic story of the Romanovs is well known, but I’d wager a guess that few of us can untangle the convoluted mess of the Great War and the Russian Revolution. Pair that with all the advancements happening out of necessity in the medical field and I knew I had to dive in. I hope it’s a piece of history topped off with a love story that intrigues readers. What story are you working on next, and what inspired it? I was watching Captain America: The Winter Soldier and began to wonder what would it be like if the Winter Soldier fell in love. What would that look like? Viola! New story idea filled with secret agencies, occults, and assassins set during the Great War that’s due out next year. Which character was most challenging to create? Why? That’s a tough call! Both Wynn and Svetlana had their difficulties and just when I thought I’d got the measure of one, the other would start to act up. It was hard keeping Wynn’s easy-going confidence from spilling into outright arrogance. With Svetlana, she was aloof from the start, but she needed to find the balance of being cold (for a good reason!) without being snobbish. Which scene or chapter in the book is your favorite? Any of the scenes at the White Bear are my favorite! I got the idea to include a nightclub after seeing the stage version of Anastasia when the Russians are reminiscing about the olden days in their country. I loved stepping into the seedy underworld of disillusioned countesses and larger than life crime bosses all bathed in the red glow memory of tsarist Russia. What is your favorite quote? Write fearless. I don’t know who said it, but it’s become so powerful that I have it hanging on my office wall. It’s given me a freedom to write the story how it needs to be told without strings, without opinions to hold it back. Books & Benches: Love the quote, J'nell! It's great advice for every author. Thank you for giving our readers a closer look at your writing life and book. Go to: Top of Post | Interview | Meet the Author | Giveaway The Ice Swan Amid the violent last days of the glittering Russian monarchy, a princess on the run finds her heart where she least expects it. 1917, Petrograd. Fleeing the murderous flames of the Russian Revolution, Princess Svetlana Dalsky hopes to find safety in Paris with her mother and sister. But the city is buckling under the weight of the Great War, and the Bolsheviks will not rest until they have erased every Russian aristocrat from memory. Svetlana and her family are forced into hiding in Paris’s underbelly, with little to their name but the jewels they sewed into their corsets before their terrifying escape. Born the second son of a Scottish duke, the only title Wynn MacCallan cares for is that of surgeon. Putting his talents with a scalpel to good use in the hospitals in Paris, Wynn pushes the boundaries of medical science to give his patients the best care possible. After treating Svetlana for a minor injury, he is pulled into a world of decaying imperial glitter. Intrigued by this mysterious, cold, and beautiful woman, Wynn follows Svetlana to an underground Russian club where drink, dance, and questionable dealings collide on bubbles of vodka. Out of money and options, Svetlana agrees to a marriage of convenience with the handsome and brilliant Wynn, who will protect her and pay off her family’s debts. It’s the right thing for a good man to do, but Wynn cannot help but hope the marriage will turn into one of true affection. When Wynn’s life takes an unexpected turn, so does Svetlana’s—and soon Paris becomes as dangerous as Petrograd. And as the Bolsheviks chase them to Scotland and beyond, Wynn and Svetlana begin to wonder if they will ever be able to outrun the love they are beginning to feel for one another. AMAZON | BOOKSHOP | BARNES AND NOBLE | INDIEBOUND | THOMAS NELSON The Author With a passion for heart-stopping adventure and sweeping love stories, J’nell Ciesielski weaves fresh takes into romances of times gone by. When not creating dashing heroes and daring heroines, she can be found dreaming of Scotland, indulging in chocolate of any kind, or watching old black and white movies. Winner of the INSPY and the Maggie Award, she is a Florida native who now lives in Virginia with her husband, daughter, and lazy beagle. Learn more at www.jnellciesielski.com . Genre: Historical Romance Type: Novel Publisher: Thomas Nelson Publication Date: July 6, 2021 Content Rating: 3 Hearts View our rating system Go to: Top of Post | Interview | About the Book | Meet the Author Tour Giveaway Enter to win a paperback copy of The Ice Swan by J’nell Ciesielski! There are 5 copies up for grabs! The giveaway is open the U.S. only and ends on July 20, 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. ENTER GIVEAWAY > 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 A story of friends to lovers who are perfect for each other! Regency romances are some of my favorites, and I loved The Ice Duchess by Tracy Sumner, a new-to-me author. The love scenes are well-written with tenderness and passion in this intriguing story, with beautiful chemistry between Georgiana and Dexter. I was pulled into the story from the first chapters, kept engrossed, and wanted more every time I turned a page. The words flowed smoothly on the pages, making this book easy to read. The author has a writing style I really like. I admit that I was first attracted by this stunning cover and I'm not disappointed because it reflects this lovely romantic story. The Ice Duchess is a beautiful introduction to her new Duchess Society series, and I'll make sure to watch for her other books. Georgiana Whitcomb, the Countess Winterbourne is a young widow known as the Ice Countess for refusing to marry again after a first marriage is forced upon her. As a young girl, she had fallen in love with a young man who had left her to become a geologist. After this rejection, no man could replace him. Now, Georgiana has committed her time to the Duchess Society. Dexter Munro made a promise to his dying father to find a wife. Except, the only woman he has ever loved is Georgiana, and she has vowed not to marry again. It’s not until Dexter comes back in her life to turn it upside down with his charm and determination to win her back. Sweet and loving moments of tenderness from Dex surprise her, and her heart now beats only for him. Will it be enough to melt the Ice Countess’s heart? Is this a second chance they’ve been waiting for? Find out in The Ice Duchess . The Ice Duchess A scandalous countess plays matchmaker…for a man she once longed to take for herself. Georgiana Whitcomb, Countess Winterbourne, is known as the Ice Countess for her rebellious ways and refusal to marry again. But a scandalous Christmas wager fashioned by Georgiana’s childhood obsession changes everything. The demanding duke needs a bride… Dexter Munro, mere days from becoming the Duke of Markham, made a promise to his dying father to find a wife by the Twelfth Night. Except the only woman he’s ever desired has vowed never to marry again. Not even to become his duchess. Georgiana and Dex share a sizzling attraction and a wicked past…but is their scorching passion enough to melt the Ice Countess’ heart? If you adore sexy Dukes, feisty Duchesses, and a steamy second-chance romance set in the magnificent Regency era, The Ice Duchess is the romance novel for you! *This book was previously published in the A Scandalous Christmas anthology.* Get Your Copy Historical/Regency Romance | Pub: July 22, 2021 | Wolf Publishing Format Read: E-book | Source: Provided by the publisher via NetGalley Reviewed by: Nicole Laverdure | Content/Steam Rating:* 4 Hearts *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 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 One of the best romantic and emotional stories of two endearing and beautiful souls! Alexa Aston has outdone herself with DISCOURAGING THE DUKE, the first book in her new Dukes Done Wrong series. One of the reasons that I read every book she writes is because of the way she knows how to catch the heart of her readers. Miles and Emery's story made me sigh, smile, and shed tears as they become friends then fall in love forever. I can't wait to read the other stories! Beware, this new series will be totally addictive! What a great start to a new series. The Dukes Done Wrong series tells the journeys of five young boys who were wrongly accused, banished from their family homes, and sent to the Turner Academy, a school for troublemakers. An instant bond unites Miles, William, Donovan, Wyatt, and Aaron, and they become family. Discouraging the Duke is Miles's tale of adventure and romance. Sent away from his family home at the age of 10, he returns home 14 years later to run the Wildwood estate as the new duke of Winslow. Emery was employed at Wildwood ten years ago as a steward and housekeeper, along with her mother and father, to run the estate while she helped the old duke, Miles’s father. So, when the new duke shows up, she wonders what will happen to her and her parents. But, no need to worry, for she will catch Miles's heart! Family secrets are discovered and a truth is revealed as the story unfolds. Love is finally in the air for the duke of Winslow and his sweet duchess. Discouraging the Duke Welcome to the new world from Alexa Aston—Dukes Done Wrong. 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. A lonely army captain who suddenly finds himself a duke. A gentleman’s daughter running an estate because her father no longer can. Two lonely souls whose sparks are undeniable . . . Miles Notley returns home as the new Duke of Winslow after being sent away for accidentally killing his younger brother when he was ten years old, an act his older brother committed—and denied. With his brother’s death, Miles finds himself in unfamiliar waters. He has no idea how to run an estate, much less be a duke. Until he meets an intriguing young woman. Emery Jenson came to Wildwood ten years ago with her parents, hired to be the estate’s steward and housekeeper. She has taken on more responsibility as her father’s mind grows weak and now runs the ducal country seat. When the new duke shows up, she schemes to hide her father’s deficiencies, believing the Duke of Winslow won’t remain long since the Season is in full swing and he will need to claim a bride and provide an heir. But Miles isn’t going anywhere. He becomes captivated not only by Emery’s charm and confidence but admires her skills in making Wildwood a profitable estate. Miles decides no one but Emery can be his duchess—and he is up for the challenge, ready to convince the blunt beauty in the battle of wills that they can both come up winners—if she will only say yes. Will Emery, who thinks she has found her place in the world and urges Miles to now find his, discover that the best place she can be is at the Duke of Winslow’s side? Amazon Historical Romance | Pub: July 16, 2021 | Dragonblade Publishing Format Read: E-book | Source: Provided by the publisher via NetGalley Reviewed by: Nicole Laverdure | Content/Steam Rating:* 4 Hearts *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 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 .

There's a fine line between friends and enemies. Shades of Gray The Complete Civil War Serial Trilogy They started as sworn enemies. Can they open their hearts to love? Shades of Gray Trilogy is sweeping Southern fiction that, according to one reviewer, “transcends the pages to settle in the very marrow of the reader’s bones.” The Civil War Trilogy takes readers across the rolling hills of Virginia in a page-turning tale of action and adventure as a Union spy spars with a renowned Confederate cavalry commander. Gallantry and chivalry are put to the test when Colonel Alexander Hunter discovers that Andrea Evans is not only the woman he promised his dying brother he would protect, but is the enemy he has vowed to his men he would destroy. This poignant tale of dueling principles, impossible choices, and enduring love is will keep readers thinking about it long after the last page is turned. Duty Bound: Takes readers across the rolling hills of Virginia in a page-turning tale of action and adventure as a Union spy spars with a renowned Confederate cavalry commander. Gallantry and chivalry are put to the test when Colonel Alexander Hunter discovers that Andrea Evans is not only the woman he promised his dying brother he would protect, but is the Union spy he has vowed to his men he would destroy. Honor Bound: This volume follows Union Spy Andrea Evans as she finds herself recuperating from an injury in the home of her enemy, Colonel Alexander Hunter. Readers will discover the fine line between friends and enemies when the lives of these two tenacious foes cross by the fates of war and their destinies become entwined forever. Glory Bound: The series culminates in this emotional final volume that reflects the sacrifices of both sides and proves there can be no bond stronger than that which unites enemies. Immortal love, whence it flows, can never die. Also available individually. Add to Your Reading List GoodReads | BookBub Buy Links Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Kobo | Apple | Smashwords | IndieBound | Bookshop Meet the Author Jessica James is an award-winning author of suspense, historical fiction, and military fiction ranging from the Revolutionary War to modern day. Her highly acclaimed Civil War novel Shades of Gray won numerous national literary awards, and is often compared to Gone with the Wind. By weaving the principles of courage, devotion, duty, and dedication into each book, James attempts to honor the unsung heroes of the American military–past and present–and to convey the magnitude of their sacrifice and service. Her novels appeal to both men and women and are featured in library collections all over the United States including Harvard and the U.S. Naval Academy. James resides in Gettysburg, Pa., and is a member of the Military Writers Society of America, NINC, Sisters in Crime, and the Romance Writers of America. She is a two-time winner of the John Esten Cooke Award for Southern Fiction, and was featured in the book 50 Authors You Should Be Reading, published in 2010. Sign up for her free newsletter at www.jessicajamesbooks.com and ask for a free copy of From the Heart: Civil War Love Letters and Stories. You can also find Jessica on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram , and Goodreads . Publication Date: June 1, 2021 304 pages Genre: Historical Romance/Victorian Content Rating: Click here to learn more about content ratings. “If you want to read a book you will never forget and will think about for months after reading it, read Shades of Gray . The book took my breath away. Honestly, you will not sleep.” – A Bookworm’s Dinner Blog Enter to win a $15 Amazon Gift Card during the Shades of Gray book blast. The giveaway is open to US residents only and ends on July 10, 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. Enter the Giveaway > “It is a book that I think could have the impact of a ‘ Gone With the Wind . – J. Noyalas, Assistant Professor of History Thank you for visiting and reading! 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 Small town romance at its best! This is my first time reading a Caroline Flynn book, and it was delightful! A Wildflower Summer, the third book in the author's Port Landon series, is a really enjoyable story that can be devoured in one sitting. This small town romance is so sweet, charming, and romantic! Lily and Jason are endearing characters, and I also love the two little girls, Eden and Carlie. Good storytelling and a great pace makes it a light and easy read. I will surely check out her next book in this series. The story starts as Lily, a single mother of a little girl named Eden, is trying to leave her small town and start a new beginning in Chicago. Unfortunately, her car breaks down just outside of Port Landon, where a sweet local mechanic named Jason comes to rescue. That's when the fun begins! This is the start of a new beginning for these two single parents who want a second chance and a fresh new start. At first, their new relationship is a little complicated with some ups and downs, but with time, patience, and understanding, their love story will touch your heart. Jason is such a sweetheart! A Wildflower Summer City meets small town in this beautiful sweet romance about family, new beginnings, and true love. Single mother Lily Brentwood yearns to leave small town life behind and start again with her young daughter in Chicago. The bright city lights promise an escape from the ex who dismissed her dreams and broke her heart. But when her car breaks down outside the sleepy town of Port Landon, she is stranded miles from Chicago and reliant on the generosity of local mechanic Jason Forrester. A single parent too, Jason turns out to be handsome, funny…and bearing bad news – the car repairs will take longer than expected. Lily has no choice but to stay. Jason is determined to show Lily that there is more to Port Landon than meets the eye… but deep down he knows it couldn’t be further from the city life Lily seeks. With her fresh start in Chicago calling, Lily must decide whether the new life she hoped for means losing the man who’s quickly winning her heart. Prepare to be swept away with the next magical summer romance by Caroline Flynn. Fans of The Restaurant , Sweet Magnolias and Virgin River will love this utterly heart-warming novel! Amazon | Harper Collins Contemporary Romance | Pub: July 21, 2021 |229pp | HQ Digital Format Read: E-book | Source: Provided by the publisher via NetGalley Content Rating:* 1 Heart | Reviewed by: Nicole Laverdure *As of Aug 2020, star ratings are not given to books. Ratings are only provided for content. We review and share only those books we have enjoyed and think others will enjoy, too. Learn more .

A Reader's Opinion From rivals to lovers! I truly enjoyed Christi Caldwell's The Importance of Being Wanton , the second book in her Wantons of Waverton series. The story started at a slow pace but eventually caught my interest. This is a delightful story! I enjoy heroines like Emma, who are bold and independent; women who give a real challenge to the men in their lives. She knows what she wants, but she doesn’t always use the right methods to achieve her dreams. Charles, her betrothed, is a rogue who must redeem himself, and they make quite a pair. Their relationship slowly evolves after many highs and lows and conclusions about their dreams and desires. Emma, our heroine, refuses to let her parents dictate her life. She vows to control her future by making her own decisions and wants to do this by canceling her engagement to Charles, her childhood fiancé. She is now a mature woman, strong and determined to help women, which is why she co-founds a group, the Mismatch Society, to help women in similar situations. However, this group would also disrupt her own life where men are concerned. Charles needs redemption if he wants to prove he can be the perfect man for her. Will they ever learn how to accept each other's differences? Can they stop this rivalry and move on with their lives if they want to earn their happily ever after? Find out in The Importance of Being Wanton . The Importance of Being Wanton USA Today bestselling author Christi Caldwell turns polite London society on its head in a delightful romance of unguarded hearts, second chances, and a scandalous rivalry between the sexes. Emma Gately and the Earl of Scarsdale were betrothed as children—less a vow of future happiness than an obligation. Seventeen years later, the independent miss severs the contract with the now notorious libertine in an unprecedented act of independence. And Emma cofounds the Mismatch Society, where like-minded ladies are free of the constraints and inevitable broken hearts that men bring. But Emma’s rejection sparks in her intended a new consideration of the spirited woman he took for granted—and a determination to win her back. Despite his wicked reputation, misguided and suddenly lovestruck, Charles Hayden is on a mission to gain Emma’s respect, and he has just the idea—one that the daringly unconventional Emma is sure to appreciate. But as Charles takes bold steps and sets tongues wagging, he makes himself an accidental opponent of his former betrothed. Soon a rivalry is born that has the whole ton abuzz. Emma never anticipated that with every fiery test of wills, passion would surge. Passion that’s impossible to ignore. In going toe-to-toe with Charles, she risks her heart and pride by falling in love with the one man she vowed to scorn. Amazon | Bookshop Historical Regency Romance | Pub: June 29, 2021 |332pp | Montlake Format Read: E-book | Source: Provided by the author or publisher via NetGalley Content Rating: 4 Hearts | Reviewed by: Nicole Laverdure *As of Aug 2020, star ratings are not given to books. Ratings are only provided for content. We review and share only those books we have enjoyed and think others will enjoy, too. Learn more .

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