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A Reader's Opinion: In the Market for Love stands out as a refreshing and sincere romance. This sweet contemporary romance follows Ransom and Kelly as they navigate the challenging yet rewarding journey of forgiveness, love, and faith. It’s a tale that resonates with anyone who has ever sought redemption or a second chance. The apparent chemistry between Ransom and Kelly shows that love, faith, and support can help individuals overcome significant obstacles. If you're in need of a sweet, uplifting read that nourishes your spirit, this book is an ideal choice. It beautifully encapsulates the essence of contemporary Christian romance, leaving a lasting impact that remains long after the final page. In the Market for Love encourages readers to not only fall in love with its characters but also to consider their own paths toward faith and love. About the Book In the Market for Love by Shanna Hatfield (Retailer Description) He’s never opened his heart to anyone. She wears her emotions on her sleeve. When romance blooms, will they realize love is what they both need? Ransom Kressley possesses the gift of gab, striking good looks, and a blistering disdain for his family’s Idaho ranch where he resides with his father and identical twin brother. His genuine passion is football, but a knee injury shattered his dreams of an NFL career. After years of channeling his frustration and anger toward those who care about him most, Ransom resolves to change. He accepts a job in Portland as a promotions manager for an arena football team and eagerly steps into his new life. As he makes a fresh start, his past continues to plague him, interfering with his chance to get to know the woman who lingers in his thoughts. Despite her sunny smile and tender spirit, Kelly Truman isn’t in the market for love or even a relationship when she agrees to have lunch with her best friend’s soon-to-be brother-in-law. Familiar only with Ransom Kressley’s notorious reputation, Kelly is determined to keep her guard up around him. However, Ransom proves to be nothing like she expected. Soon, she realizes she cherishes time spent with the man, but fears trusting him with her heart. When their friendship evolves into something more, will Ransom’s charm and silver tongue split them apart or bind them together? A sweet romance full of warmth and humor, In the Market for Love is a story of hope, forgiveness, and redemption. Buy the Book Kindle Paperback Title: In the Market for Love Author: Shanna Hatfield Series: Hearts of the West, book 1 Genres: Contemporary Romance, Christian Romance, Christian Western Originally published: March 6, 2025 Language: ‎English    Read by: Lizzie Review Copy Source: NetGalley Disclaimers: The copy reviewed was provided by the author or publisher via NetGalley. This review is the opinion of the reviewer and does not necessarily represent the opinions of all other reviewers (past, present, future) who review for Books and Benches. Because we do not have a professional editor volunteer, this post was edited by the Books and Benches team with help from ProWritingAid or Grammarly or Wix. The review, and all opinions/thoughts within, are the reader's. Affiliate links are in use on this post. If you click on an Amazon or Bookshop link, and make a purchase, this site will earn a small commission. It costs you nothing and helps us to maintain this website and pay for books to share.

The Civil War era was marked by a complex web of motivations and ambitions, and for those fascinated by the history of this era, check out The Absolution of Mars by T.F. Troy! From its intriguing opening scene, where playful dialogue among children hints at deeper mysteries, the story captivates with a blend of vivid detail and emotional depth. About The Absolution of Mars by T.F. Troy Politics, Friendship, or Greed? Which of these was the true author of the Confederate conspiracy to decapitate the Union? The Absolution of Mars by T.F. Troy is a masterful blend of historical fiction, human drama and moral exploration. Set against the backdrop of a racially fraught period in American history, the story does not back away from the harsh realities or racial biases of the day. The narrative introduces Jemm Pender, a former slave with a superior intellect, who rises to become a key agent in the National Detective Police Force. Jemm is tasked to trace the movements of J. W. Boyd, a Confederate spy working out of Canada. From its intriguing opening scene, where playful dialogue among children hints at deeper mysteries, the story captivates with a blend of vivid detail and emotional depth. Jemm's quest intertwines with his wife Marnie and Aunt Cordelia, both blessed with remarkable capabilities that are being lost to the scientific thought of the day. Troy tackles difficult topics with honesty and precision, creating moments that are as painful as they are profound. The prose is rich and evocative, with dialogue that breathes life into the characters and their struggles. The Absolution of Mars is a poignant, thought-provoking exploration of history, identity, and humanity, recommended for readers seeking depth and nuance. Buy the Book Kindle Paperback Hardcover Enjoy an Excerpt from The Absolution of Mars Before the men could even grab Boyd, the sergeant is on him, searching his pockets, pulling out a billfold with more than $1,000 dollars in it, a red journal, and three newspaper clippings. The other two soldiers grab Boyd by the armpits, his legs dangling and dragging behind him, unconcerned about favoring the leg in the splint. Boyd sees red, then white. As they lift him up, he comes to and feels his neck bend awkwardly to one side. Nothing is working. Boyd sees red then white. As the soldiers pull him up the steps to Garrett’s porch, he comes back once again. He tries to spit up the blood and phlegm gurgling in his throat, but is unsuccessful. He starts to choke. Boyd sees red then white. He coughs up blood and wakes. His breath gurgles, as he continues to spit blood and phlegm from his mouth. The lieutenant stands over him. “The wound looks fatal,” he says to Boyd. “Do you wish to make a last statement.” Boyd looks at him, realizing his situation, and tries to nod head but is not successful. “Smith, Smith is, paid...paid companion,” Boyd says, as blood flowed from the corners of his mouth. His eyes roll back in his head. “Not a part of this.” Boyd sees red, then white. One of the two soldiers who had carried him, speaks up. “Corbett grabbed some personal belongings,” he says. “True,” says the sergeant. “Lookey here, what we got. More than $1,000 in U.S bills, plus some clippings here.” “Garrett, I need some brandy, a sponge,” the lieutenant says. “I want a final confession.” Richard Garrett dutifully steps inside the house, his frightened family and man servant still on the porch as the first pink and grey slivers of dawn can be seen on the horizon. Boyd sees red, then white. “Anything else?” the lieutenant asks the sergeant as Garrett steps inside, but the sergeant ignores him. “I said anything else sergeant!” lieutenant shouts louder, bringing Boyd back to consciousness. “Journal. My journal,” Boyd says, passing out again. He comes to as Garrett applied the brandy to his lips. “Journal explains,” he says, as his eyes rolled back in his head. “Bell, Bell.” “Ask Not for Whom the Bell tolls,” the lieutenant says, quoting John Donne’s immortal poem and hoping to give a man he saw as an actor a great last line. “He musta dropped that journal in the barn,” the sergeant says. Boyd tries to shake his head and coughs. Blood begins flowing freely from the corners of both lips. Boyd sees red, then white. His brother comes down the steps of his home in Maryland and smiles at him. His mother comes out from the kitchen, a concerned look on her face. “Why?” she asks, as Boyd is jolted back to consciousness. Boyd sees red, then white. A sharp pain comes from the base of his neck, as he opens his eyes and sees the lieutenant. “Tell my mother I died for my country,” Boyd says. “Raise my hands. Please raise my hands, that I may see them one last time” he pleads. The soldier that helped carry him to the porch raises his hands up to Boyd’s gaze, and Boyd shakes his head slightly. “Other, other side,” he gasps. The soldier turns Boyd’s palms toward him, and the man known to the Garrett family as Captain Boyd whispers his last words on earth. Words that would be later used to confirm his identity. End of Excerpt © T.F. Troy. Shared with permission for the tour. Author T.F. Troy A student of the American Civil War, T.F. Troy has an award-winning journalism career spanning more than 40 years. He currently serves as Executive Editor of Cleveland Magazine’s Community Leader as well as the Editor of Ohio Business Magazine. He also writes features for Northern Kentucky Magazine and Dayton Magazine, among other regional publications. His work with those publications has won him numerous awards, taking first, second and third place in Ohio for Magazine Feature Writing. Troy’s work has appeared in major metropolitan daily newspapers including the Cleveland Plain Dealer and Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. In addition to the previously mentioned publications, Troy also held positions as a Senior Editor for both ABC/Capital Cities and ICD Publications in New York. His work has appeared in numerous national consumer and trade periodicals throughout his career. In his first book Cleveland Classics: Great Tales from the North Coast , Troy interviewed local and national Cleveland celebrities such as: Jim Brown, Bob Feller, Patricia Heaton and Arsenio Hall among others. The Absolution of Mars , set just after the Civil War, is his first novel, but third book. Author page on publisher website: https://www.historiumpress.com/t-f-troy   Connect/Follow Online Facebook LinkedIn Instagram Bluesky Amazon Author Page Goodreads Book Title: The Absolution of Mars Author: T.F. Troy Publication Date: January 21st, 2025 Publisher: Historium Press Pages: 302 Genre: Historical Fiction, American Civil War Spy Novel Thank you for visiting Books & Benches! Please consider helping the authors who write the books by sharing this post.

Love and adventure are beautifully depicted in The Fur Trader’s Lady by Gabrielle Meyer.   Set in the stunning North American wilderness, this story takes us far from the comforts of first, an English estate then across the ocean to Montreal, immersing us in a world filled with courage, love, resilience, and the thrill of discovery. The slow-growing romance between Reid and Charlotte begins the moment they cross paths. Among the characters, Reid McCoy stands out as my favorite. His rugged charm and handsome Scotsman allure make him hard to resist. The moments when he protects Charlotte or shares gentle laughter make the heart tingle, leaving readers wishing they could find comfort in his strong embrace. Together, Reid and Charlotte face the inhospitable wilderness, forming a strong bond. Their adventures through forests and rivers are vividly portrayed, pulling readers into the landscape. Historical elements are woven in, allowing readers to not only enjoy Reid and Charlotte's romance but also gain insight into the fur trading era. I did find myself skimming through some of the later travel scenes because there were a few of them, but then something Reid would say or do pulled me back into the story. This is Christian fiction, and several elements and mentions of faith and God are woven in, more so as the story progresses. I felt the Christian elements complemented the story without overpowering. With its charming characters and immersive storytelling, The Fur Trader’s Lady  is bound to secure a special place in the hearts of fans of clean historical romance. About the Book The Fur Trader's Lady by Gabrielle Meyer (Retailer Description) To escape her guardian’s plans to marry her, Lady Charlotte Fairfax steals away to Montreal to locate Reid McCoy, a fur trader who owes her fiancé a debt for saving his life. Even though European women are forbidden from entering the interior, she is desperate to get to her fiancé deep within the northwestern wilderness. Reid McCoy has worked hard for fifteen years to become a shareholder in the North West Company and is on the brink of realizing that goal. Taking Charlotte into the interior will not only put her life at risk, but it could also jeopardize his dreams. Honor bound to repay his debt, his only option is to have Charlotte dress as a man and enter as his assistant clerk. With Charlotte’s guardian close on their trail and a personal rival willing to do anything to keep Reid from becoming a shareholder, they will embark on an epic journey that will test not only their strength and endurance, but their hearts, as well. Christy Award winner and bestselling author Gabrielle Meyer presents a new and thrilling historical adventure series set in the heart of the North American wilderness.    Buy the Book Amazon Kindle Paperback Note: As of this posting, the paperback interior pages are white, which has nothing to do with the quality of the writing, but for those who have difficulty reading on bright white paper, like myself, it's something to keep in mind. Title: The Fur Trader's Lady Author: Gabrielle Meyer Publication date : February 10, 2025    Genre(s): Christian Historical Romance, Christian Historical Fiction Language: ‎English    Read by: Kathy Review Copy Source: Personal Library Disclaimers: The copy reviewed is from the reviewer's personal library. This review is the opinion of the reviewer and does not necessarily represent the opinions of all other reviewers (past, present, future) who review for Books and Benches. Because we do not have a professional editor volunteer, this post was edited by the Books and Benches team with help from ProWritingAid or Grammarly or Wix. The review, and all opinions/thoughts within, are the reader's. Affiliate links are in use on this post. If you click on an Amazon or Bookshop link, and make a purchase, this site will earn a small commission. It costs you nothing and helps us to maintain this website and pay for books to share.

Get ready to fall head over heels for book one of the Hearts of the West series, where hope, love, and longing come together in an irresistible package! Join us in welcoming Shanna Hatfield with In the Market for Love . Shanna joins us on a blog tour hosted by XpressoTours. There is also a limited-time giveaway at the end of this post. He’s never opened his heart to anyone. She wears her emotions on her sleeve. When romance blooms, will they realize love is what they both need? In the Market for Love by Shanna Hatfield Ransom Kressley possesses the gift of gab, striking good looks, and a blistering disdain for his family’s Idaho ranch where he resides with his father and identical twin brother. His genuine passion is football, but a knee injury shattered his dreams of an NFL career. After years of channeling his frustration and anger toward those who care about him most, Ransom resolves to change. He accepts a job in Portland as a promotions manager for an arena football team and eagerly steps into his new life. As he makes a fresh start, his past continues to plague him, interfering with his chance to get to know the woman who lingers in his thoughts. Despite her sunny smile and tender spirit, Kelly Truman isn’t in the market for love or even a relationship when she agrees to have lunch with her best friend’s soon-to-be brother-in-law. Familiar only with Ransom Kressley’s notorious reputation, Kelly is determined to keep her guard up around him. However, Ransom proves to be nothing like she expected. Soon, she realizes she cherishes time spent with the man, but fears trusting him with her heart. When their friendship evolves into something more, will Ransom’s charm and silver tongue split them apart or bind them together? A sweet romance full of warmth and humor, In the Market for Love is a story of hope, forgiveness, and redemption. Buy the Book Kindle Add to Goodreads Enjoy an Excerpt from In the Market for Love Nervous for reasons she couldn’t begin to explain, she rushed to answer the door. She pulled it open to find Ransom on the other side of the screen door holding a bag from the hardware store in one hand and a large bag of peanut M&Ms in the other. Kelly could have kissed him, and it had nothing to do with him bringing her favorite candy. He looked delectable in a pair of faded jeans, scuffed boots, and a blue plaid western shirt with the sleeves rolled up to his elbows, exposing tanned, corded forearms. His hair was tousled, like he’d forked his hands through it a few times. “I’m so sorry to bother you, Ransom. Were you doing something important?” she asked as she pushed open the door and filled her lungs with his incredible scent as he stepped past her into the house. “Vitally important. I was cheering on the Seahawks when I got Celia’s text.” Aware of how much he loved football, Kelly felt as though he’d made a big sacrifice by coming to help her. “I’m so sorry, Ransom. I told Celia I’d figure it out.” “I’m glad she reached out, and you called. I can catch up on the game later.” “You can at least listen to it.” She took a step toward the coffee table, where she’d left the remote to the television, but Ransom shook his head. “It’s fine, Kelly. I’d rather hang out with you.” She wasn’t sure what to make of that since Ransom lived and breathed football. He walked into the kitchen, and she followed. As he set the bag on the counter by the sink and began extracting parts, he glanced over at her. “Tell me what happened.” “I’m not sure, exactly. The dishwasher was mid-cycle. I came in to get a drink, and water was gushing out of the cabinet. I opened it up, and the pipe that connects to the drain had fallen completely off. What would make it do that?” “A few things could make it do that, but it shouldn’t. I’m sorry you had to deal with this today.” He knelt down on the floor and removed the plastic wrap she’d used to cover the ends of the pipes. “Whew. That is ripe,” he said, turning his nose into his shoulder and drawing in a deep breath. “I’ll try to work fast.” And he did. Less than fifteen minutes later, the pipe was once again fastened to the drain, and Kelly turned the dishwasher back on. Ransom washed his hands while Kelly poured two glasses of apple cider. She would have offered Ransom a root beer if she’d had one, aware it was his favorite beverage. However, the apple cider was from the local farmer’s market. Dave’s wife, Randi, had brought a jug to Kelly yesterday at the winery. Kelly filled a plate with cinnamon cookies that she had baked the night before, then tipped her head toward the living room. “If you aren’t in a rush to head back to your apartment, would you like to stay and watch the rest of the game?” she asked, hoping Ransom would say yes. End of Excerpt. © Shanna Hatfield. Shared with permission for this blog tour. Meet the Author Shanna Hatfield USA Today Bestselling Author Shanna Hatfield writes sweet romances rich with relatable characters, small town settings that feel like home, humor, and hope. Her historical westerns have been described as “reminiscent of the era captured by Bonanza and The Virginian” while her contemporary works have been called “laugh-out-loud funny, and a little heart-pumping sexy without being explicit in any way.” When this farm girl isn’t writing or indulging in rich, decadent chocolate, Shanna hangs out with her husband, lovingly known as Captain Cavedweller. She also experiments with recipes, snaps photos of her adorable nephew, and caters to the whims of a cranky cat named Drooley. To learn more about Shanna or the books she writes, visit her website shannahatfield.com or find out more about her here: linktr.ee/ShannaHatfield Connect/Follow BookBub Goodreads Facebook Pinterest Instagram Twitter/X Title: In the Market for Love Author: Shanna Hatfield Series: Hearts of the West, book 1 Release Date: March 6, 2025 Pages: 150 pages Categories: Contemporary Romance Limited-Time Giveaway $20 Amazon gift card – 1 winner WW Ends March 13, 2025. US Only   Direct Rafflecopter Link Boring Legal Jargon:  The giveaway is open to the country/countries designated by the sponsor only, and ends at the specified date. You must be 18 or older to enter/at the time of entry. Void where prohibited by law. This giveaway is sponsored by the author and hosted by Xpresso Tours. The winner will be contacted directly by the author or blog tour host.

Are you a fan of heartwarming love stories or intrigued by cowboys in Montana? If so, this novel promises to captivate your heart and imagination! Join us in welcoming Elsa Winckler with A Family with the Cowboy . Elsa joins us on a blog tour hosted by Silver Dagger Book Tours. There is also a limited-time giveaway at the end of this post. A Family with the Cowboy by Elsa Winckler Widowed rancher Hayden Weston knows what it means to be responsible for his siblings, his eight-year-old son, and the running of the huge family cattle ranch. Some even call him a stern and grumpy taskmaster and they’re not exactly wrong. So when Hayden discovers his son reading a storybook instead of doing chores, he calls on Luke’s teacher to talk about priorities. School teacher Laura Anderson is new to Marietta, Montana, and has never—until now—been reprimanded for encouraging a child to read. It doesn’t help that sweet Luke’s father is the handsome cowboy with the amber eyes that she met in Grey’s Saloon, or that she’s wildly attracted to him. Sparks keep flying as their paths keep crossing, but Hayden is determined not to give in to his incomprehensible need to have, hold, and protect Laura from any type of harm. He’s the one who’ll hurt her if he lets her stray too close. He’s not ready to admit his feelings or commit to sharing his life with her. Even if love comes tumbling in. Buy the Book Kindle B&N Nook Apple Books Kobo Google Play Enjoy an Excerpt at Tule Publishing Add to Bookbub   Add to Goodreads Enjoy an Excerpt from A Family with the Cowboy Getting tingles down her back because a cowboy was looking at her was so not something she had time for right now. Squaring her shoulders, she opened the bathroom door. As she stepped out, she bumped into a solid body. Earthy tones of man and musk swirled around her. Immediately, all her senses jumped to attention. “Sorry,” she muttered, and tried to escape, but the person in front of her wasn’t moving. “Excuse me,” she tried again and, irritated, she pushed against him. Big mistake. Her hands landed on a warm, muscled torso. They both froze. She looked up. It was the same cowboy she’d caught staring at her minutes earlier. Those whiskey-colored eyes didn’t blink. “You passing through town?” a deep voice rumbled. She shook her head. One side of his mouth lifted ever so slightly. “Pity.” His head dropped. “Something tells me you may not be so averse to sweaty cowboys as you think.” Before she could catch her breath, he’d turned away and was walking through the swinging doors into the night. Blinking, she steadied herself against the wall. Oh, my. If the first cowboy she met in town had this effect on her, it was a good thing she was living and working in town and would hopefully not run into any on a daily basis. End of Excerpt © Elsa Winckler. Shared with permission on the blog tour. Meet the Author Elsa Winckler I have been reading love stories for as long as I can remember and when I ‘met’ the classic authors like Jane Austen, Elizabeth Gaskell, Henry James The Brontë sisters, etc. during my Honours studies, I was hooked for life. I married my college boyfriend and soul mate and after 43 years, 3 interesting and wonderful children and 3 beautiful grandchildren, he still makes me weak in the knees. We are fortunate to live in the picturesque little seaside village of Betty’s Bay, South Africa with the ocean a block away and a beautiful mountain right behind us. And although life so far has not always been an easy ride, it has always been an exciting and interesting one! I like the heroines in my stories to be beautiful, feisty, independent and headstrong.  And the heroes must be strong but possess a generous amount of sensitivity. They are of course, also gorgeous!  My stories typically incorporate the family background of the characters to better understand where they come from and who they are when we meet them in the story. Website : elsawinckler.com Connect/Follow BookBub Facebook Twitter/X Instagram Newsletter Title: A Family with the Cowboy Author: Elsa Winckler Series: The Westons of Montana, book one Release Date: Feb 18, 2025 Published by: Tule Publishing Pages: 197 Limited-Time Giveaway $10 Amazon gift card or E-book of My Montana Valentine by Elsa Winckler -1 winner each! Follow the tour HERE for special content and a giveaway! Boring Legal Jargon:  The giveaway is open to the country/countries designated by the sponsor only and ends on March 4, 2025 (or end of tour). You must be 18 or older to enter/at the time of entry. Void where prohibited by law. This giveaway is sponsored by the author and hosted by Silver Dagger Book Tours. The winner will be contacted directly by the author or blog tour host.

Kelli Estes's novel, Smoke on the Wind, takes readers on a journey that intertwines dual timelines with the deep emotional bonds of family. The story revolves around two mothers, Keaka Denney and Sorcha Chisholm, navigating the complexities of loss and identity across different timelines. As the story weaves between the present and the past, readers experience Scotland's beautiful landscape while being thrust into the emotional journeys of both women, though I especially enjoyed and was drawn into Sorcha's timeline and story. Although, I also wish I was on the walking trip with Keaka in her timeline (sounds the an amazing experience). Sorcha's storyline immerses readers in historical Scotland, depicting landscapes, traditions, and societal norms that resonate even today. Estes describes the beauty of the Scottish Highlands with stunning detail and evokes the struggles women faced during that period, worsened by the unimaginable struggles of losing everything and having to find the strength to start over again. While some transitions between the two timelines were a little more difficult to follow (may have been more me than the writing), this format allows readers to draw connections between the two women. The mild violence content is appropriate within the historical context. The author's writing style truly immerses the reader into the story with great pacing, fascinating research, well-timed tension, and heart-wrenching emotion. And I love the cover! It's what drew me in before the description. About the Book Smoke on the Wind by Kelli Estes (Retailer Description) Struggling with the tragic end of her marriage, Keaka Denney is on a bittersweet adventure in Scotland with her son, Colin. She’s joining him on a weeklong hike along the West Highland Way before he enters university in Glasgow. Soon into the journey, Keaka’s disquieting visions begin―a woman from ages past reaching for Colin, a burning cottage, violence. Scotland, 1801. After Sorcha Chisholm and her son are wrenched from their home in a brutal eviction, they face an arduous trek toward a new beginning. When Sorcha learns she’s wanted for a murder she didn’t commit, she and her son run for their lives. Then help arrives from the strangest woman in the most unexpected ways. Centuries apart, Keaka and Sorcha walk the same path―devoted mothers in circumstances beyond their control who will do anything to keep their sons safe. Defying logic, they find strength in each other. But what does their connection mean? And how far will it go?    Buy the Book Amazon Kindle Paperback Audiobook Title: Smoke on the Wind Author: Kelli Estes Publisher: ‎Lake Union Publishing Publication date : June 24, 2025    Genre(s): Dual-Time Fiction, Historical Scottish Fiction, Historical Women's Fiction Language: ‎English    Read by: Lizzie Review Copy Source: NetGalley Disclaimers: A copy of this book was provided by the author or publisher via NetGalley. This review is the opinion of the reviewer and does not necessarily represent the opinions of all other reviewers (past, present, future) who review for Books and Benches. Because we do not have a professional editor volunteer, this post was edited by the Books and Benches team with help from ProWritingAid or Grammarly or Wix. The review, and all opinions/thoughts within, are the reader's. Affiliate links are in use on this post. If you click on an Amazon or Bookshop link, and make a purchase, this site will earn a small commission. It costs you nothing and helps us to maintain this website and pay for books to share.

Are you ready for a rousing medieval romance where temptation reigns and convenience is a matter of opinion? Join us in welcoming Denise Lynn with The Warrior's Bride Alliance . Denise joins us on a blog tour hosted by Silver Dagger Book Tours. There is also a limited-time giveaway at the end of this post. The Roul brothers are King David's Warrior Wolves - each finds their (true love/mate) with a little push from the king... The Warrior's Bride Alliance by Denise Lynn Denise Lynn returns to Harlequin Historical with an explosive medieval marriage-of-convenience story! She needs a husband… So she captures one! Lady Gillian of Rockskill desperately needs a husband—one strong and wealthy enough to protect her castle. So she has warrior Rory of Roul captured and blackmails him into marrying her! Awaking in a dungeon to a marriage proposal, Rory stuns his beguiling captor with a counteroffer: to free his men and complete his mission for the king, he agrees to a temporary chaste marriage. One that can be annulled when his quest is over. But despite their stormy beginning, their attraction grows, and so does the temptation to claim their wedding night! From Harlequin Historical: Your romantic escape to the past. Buy the Book Kindle Bookshop Mass Market Paperback Barnes & Noble Apple Books Kobo Google Play Harlequin Add to Bookbub Add to Goodreads Enjoy an Excerpt from The Warrior's Bride Alliance Chapter One Rockskill Keep, Scotland—spring 1146 ‘I have need of a husband.’ Rory of Roul shook his head to clear the thick fog muddling his mind and making his head pound. Where was he? He tried desperately to dredge up his last memory, but failed. Was it fog clouding his memory, or was it smoke from the fires set after the battle to lay waste to the land? Land now covered by dead bodies. Bodies not of men, but of smooth-faced boys who’d only recently sparred with wooden swords in mock battles. His stomach rolled at the horrors he’d committed. No. The battle was over. Without his liege’s permission or knowledge, he’d gathered his men and left. He was no longer in Normandy. He’d run like a traitorous dog with his tail between his legs back to King David begging for a mission—a wolf’s mission—any mission. He shook his head again. Slowly clearing the murkiness of his mind. He and two of his men had been heading for Rockskill Keep on the King’s orders. Rory jerked his head back, only to wince at the contact with the stone wall behind him. She needed a what? The bite of iron manacles securing his wrists and ankles to the cold wall at his naked back kept him from laughing at her statement. Why was there a woman on the battlefield? He blinked, then stared at the woman standing before him, not on a field of battle, but in a dimly lit cell, and asked, ‘Where are my men?’ ‘They are secure.’ ‘Secure?’ ‘In a better state than you.’ She shrugged, adding, ‘For now.’ She stepped closer. The top of her head barely reached his shoulder. ‘You worry about your men for naught. You should be concerned for your own well-being.’ He snorted. His well-being had been forfeited the moment he’d deserted his post and walked off the battlefield. The penalty for desertion—treason—would be death. The best he could hope for was that his liege the Count of Roul—his brother Elrik—would use a sharp blade and make it a quick, clean end. ‘Where am I?’ ‘Rockskill Keep.’ At least he’d arrived at the location of his mission for King David. ‘I demand an audience with the Lord of this Keep.’ ‘That would be impossible, as he is dead.’ A piece of information King David either didn’t know or had forgot to mention when he sent him here to bring the shipwrecks, smuggling, murders and other happenings at Rockskill to heel. ‘Then who is in charge here?’ ‘I am.’ ‘And you are?’ ‘The Lady of Rockskill.’ Rory wrenched hard against the restraints, angry at the knowledge that he was at this vixen’s mercy. He pulled harder on the chains, his chest nearly hitting her nose. She didn’t move, didn’t as much as flinch, simply looked up at him, warning, ‘If you harm me, you will die. But if you hurt yourself, I will send in the midwife. Trust me when I say you will not like her attention. She enjoys making her charges cry.’ He ignored her threat to send a woman’s healer instead of a surgeon to attend him. The slanted tilt of her lips and arching of her brows let him know she’d insulted him on purpose. And while he highly doubted a woman could make him cry, he was in no position to test that theory. She reached out, stopping just before her palm touched his chest. Her hand was so close that a breeze would not have passed between them. He looked down, wondering if her touch would burn, and suddenly was grateful that he only lacked clothing from the waist up. The woman paused, frowning. As if uncertain of her next move. Rory lifted a brow. If he didn’t know better, he would guess this woman had never been alone with a man before. Yet she had just claimed her husband had died. He watched the play of emotions cross her face as she stared at his chest, as if the sight was unfamiliar. Her curiosity while studying his shoulders, chest, then stomach blinked to hesitancy before she quickly flashed her gaze back up. But the raising of her finely arched brows and the slight widening of those blue eyes silently spoke of interest. She jerked her hand away, produced a dagger from behind her back and held the tip towards the tie of his braies. ‘It would be an easy thing to strip you completely. Perhaps I should see if the rest of you will suffice as husband material.’ Was she that witless, or truly that bold?  Rory doubted if she’d be bold enough to do so, but he had no desire to discover the answer, at least not while chained to a wall. ‘Do you know who I am?’ She tucked the dagger back behind her. ‘You are Rory of Roul, the youngest of King David’s wolves.’ She knew who he was and yet still saw fit to capture him? He frowned, unable to remember how this had happened. End of Excerpt. © Denise Lynn. Shared with permission for this blog tour. Click to view on Bookshop The Warrior’s Runaway Wife Warrior Wolves, book two The notorious Lord of Roul… …must take her as his bride! Lady Avelyn flees an unwanted betrothal to an elderly warlord only to be hunted down and returned to King David’s court by fearsome Elrik, Lord of Roul, a legendary warrior with a heart of ice—and a kiss of fire. And now Avelyn is bound to Elrik—and his bed—when Elrik is commanded to wed her instead! “Another sensual, action packed tale” — RT Book Reviews on At the Warrior’s Mercy Click to View on Bookshop At the Warrior’s Mercy Warrior Wolves, book one In twelfth-century Scotland, a woman is trapped into marriage with a warrior—by order of the king! Deceived and alone, Beatrice of Warehaven is forced to flee—straight into the powerful arms of feared warrior Gregor of Roul. He escorts her home, though not before a kiss ignites true passion between them. If Gregor is to gain his freedom, he must obey one last royal order—overthrow Warehaven and marry Beatrice. His betrayal will earn Beatrice’s hatred, but Gregor is prepared to go into battle with this stubborn beauty—and finish what he started with his innocent bride! Meet the Author Denise Lynn Denise Lynn lives in NW Ohio with her husband, son and slew of 4-legged "kids". She has been an avid reader of romance novels for many years, travelling to lands and times filled with brave knights, courageous ladies and never-ending love between the pages of those wonderful books. She writes medieval romances set in England, Ireland, Normandy, France and a few fictitious islands in the waters surrounding Great Britain. When not writing historical romances, she's likely working on paranormal romances with dragons, wizards and other assorted praeternatural beings – some set on the same fictitious islands created for her medievals. When Denise isn't writing, she can be found hiking, baking, sitting in front of a sewing machine, or snipping herbs for various edible and not-so-edible recipes. Website : www.denise-lynn.com Connect/Follow Goodreads Facebook Pinterest Instagram Twitter/X Title: The Warrior's Bride Alliance Author: Denise Lynn Series: Warrior Wolves, book three (Gillian of Rockskill and Rory of Roul) Release Date: February 25, 2025 (March 2025) Published by: Harlequin Historical Pages: 272 Categories: Historical Fiction, Historical Romance, Viking Historical Fiction, Medieval Romance Limited-Time Giveaway First Prize $30 Amazon gift card – 1 winner WW Second Prize Print copy of winner’s choice from Warrior Wolves 1-3 – 5 winners, US only!   Follow the tour HERE for special content and a giveaway! Boring Legal Jargon:  The giveaway is open to the country/countries designated by the sponsor only, and ends at the specified date. You must be 18 or older to enter/at the time of entry. Void where prohibited by law. This giveaway is sponsored by the author and hosted by Silver Dagger Book Tours. The winner will be contacted directly by the author or blog tour host.

A Woman's Lot by Carolyn Hughes 🎧 Audiobook 🎧 Meonbridge Chronicles, Book 2 How can mere women resist the misogyny of men? 1352. In Meonbridge, a resentful peasant rages against Eleanor Titherige’s efforts to build up her flock of sheep. Susanna Miller’s husband, grown melancholy and ill-tempered, succumbs to idle gossip that his wife’s a scold. Agnes Sawyer’s yearning to be a craftsman is met with scorn. And the village priest, fearful of what he considers women’s “unnatural” ambitions, is determined to keep them firmly in their place. Many men hold fast to the teachings of the Church and fear the havoc the “daughters of Eve” might wreak if they’re allowed to usurp men’s roles and gain control over their own lives. Not all men in Meonbridge resist the women’s desire for change – indeed, they want it for themselves. Yet it takes only one or two misogynists to unleash the hounds of hostility and hatred… If you enjoy immersive historical fiction with a strong authentic feel, set in a time of change and challenge, especially for women, you’ll love A Woman’s Lot , the second MEONBRIDGE CHRONICLE. Find out for yourself if Meonbridge’s “unnatural” women stand up to their abusers. Listen! Buy the Audiobook Amazon Audible Audiobook Narrator: Alex Lee Also available in e-book and paperback At the time of this posting, this title is available to read on Kindle Unlimited. Discover the Series Praise for A Woman’s Lot “This book exceeded all my expectations. I did not read this story. I lived it!” ~ Mary Anne Yarde, The Coffee Pot Book Club “A treat for all the senses…totally true to its time and setting…” ~ Being Anne “I didn’t so much feel as if I were reading about medieval England as experiencing it first hand.” ~ Linda’s Book Bag “An absorbing account of the times.” ~ Historical Novel Society Meet Carolyn Hughes Carolyn Hughes has lived much of her life in Hampshire. With a first degree in Classics and English, she started working life as a computer programmer, then a very new profession. But it was technical authoring that later proved her vocation, word-smithing for many different clients, including banks, an international hotel group and medical instruments manufacturers. Although she wrote creatively on and off for most of her adult life, it was not until her children flew the nest that writing historical fiction took centre stage. But why historical fiction? Serendipity! Seeking inspiration for what to write for her Creative Writing Masters, she discovered the handwritten draft, begun in her twenties, of a novel, set in 14th century rural England… Intrigued by the period and setting, she realised that, by writing a novel set in the period, she’d be able to both learn more about the medieval past and  interpret it, which seemed like a thrilling thing to do. A few days later, the first Meonbridge Chronicle, Fortune’s Wheel , was under way. Six published books later (with more to come), Carolyn does now think of herself as an Historical Novelist. And she wouldn’t have it any other way… You can connect with Carolyn through her website www.carolynhughesauthor.com  and social media. Connect with Carolyn Twitter Facebook BlueSky BookBub Amazon Author Page Goodreads Book Title: A Woman's Lot Series: The Meonbridge Chronicles Author: Carolyn Hughes Publication Date: January 30th, 2025 (audiobook) Unabridged Listening Length: 12 hours and 15 minutes Publication Date: November 12th, 2018 Publisher: Riverdown Books Pages: 342 Genre: Historical Fiction

In the gritty streets of Victoria-era London, The Whitechapel Widow draws readers in with a blend of suspense and rich character development. This story follows Emma Langley, a young woman whose life is upended when her husband mysteriously disappears. For fans of historical mystery, this book is an engrossing mix of intrigue, and emotion featuring interesting women sleuths of strength and courage. From the immersive experience the author creates with her depictions of 1888 London to a mystery that leaves the reader guessing enough to keep turning the pages, the author does a great job drawing the reader in from the first page. Penny Green, a character from another of the author's series, makes an appearance, and as a first-time reader of Emily Organ, and not having read the other series, I did not feel lost with the introduction of Penny into the story. Their camaraderie shows the strength of women navigating a male-dominated world, bravely challenging societal norms. It's not all about Jack the Ripper in Whitechapel. The Whitechapel Widow is a well-written story that blends historical context and imagery with an absorbing mystery. A promising start to the Emma Langley Victorian Mystery series. I will most certainly be reading more from this author. About the Book The Widow of Whitechapel by Emily Organ (retailer description) London hunts the Ripper. A widow hunts her husband's killer. London, 1888. While Jack the Ripper's reign of terror grips the city, Emma Langley's world shatters when her husband is found murdered in Whitechapel. But grief is quickly overshadowed by a startling discovery: William Langley was not the man she thought she knew. As panic fills London's streets, Emma delves into her husband's secret life, uncovering a web of lies that stretches from glittering society drawing rooms to the seedy gambling dens of the East End. Aided by Penny Green, a former reporter with a nose for trouble, Emma follows a trail of blackmail and corruption. But exposing her husband's killer could make her the next victim and in the shadows of gaslit streets, a murderer waits, ready to strike again… From the bestselling author of Penny Green comes a spellbinding new Victorian mystery series introducing Emma Langley. Buy the Book Amazon Kindle Title: The Whitechapel Widow Author: Emily Organ Publisher: ‎Storm Publishing Publication date : March 27, 2025    Genre(s): Historical Mystery, Victorian Mystery Language: ‎English    Read by: Lizzie Review Copy Source: NetGalley Disclaimers: A copy of this book was provided by the author or publisher via NetGalley. This review is the opinion of the reviewer and does not necessarily represent the opinions of all other reviewers (past, present, future) who review for Books and Benches. Because we do not have a professional editor volunteer, this post was edited with help from ProWritingAid or Grammarly. The review, and all opinions/thoughts within, are the reader's. Affiliate links are in use on this post. If you click on an Amazon or Bookshop link, and make a purchase, this site will earn a small commission. It costs you nothing and helps us to maintain this website and pay for books to share.

We are pleased to welcome Elizabeth de Veer to Books & Benches as she gives us a sneak peek at The Ocean in Winter . ''This tale of love, loss, grief, and connections is one that could shatter your heartstrings. It is a saga of family turmoil that hints of the supernatural—a world of spirits that try to alert of danger, the past, and the way forward.'' — Mystery & Suspense Enjoy an excerpt from The Ocean in Winter After a four-and-a-half-hour drive, I arrive in Manhattan, thrilled but terrified to be someplace new. The GPS takes me directly to the hotel, and shortly after eleven p.m., I check in. The room is tiny and cramped with a double bed and a reading chair that I need to squeeze past to get to the bathroom. The view isn’t much, just a row of brick buildings with layers of buildings beyond it, and more buildings beyond those. I sit down in the soft chair and stare out the window at the city for a while. I wonder if she’s out there in the darkness; maybe I am looking straight at her now but can’t see her. Then I notice, beside the chair, a stack of glossy magazines in a basket. A while ago, Today investigated hotel rooms and used ultraviolet light to show all the body fluids that never get cleaned from the bedspreads and walls, but I defy Savannah Guthrie and pick up a magazine—I don’t really want to touch the TV remote, but I probably will even- tually. It’s a couple of years old. I flip through pages and stop on a shiny perfume ad featuring a young woman dressed in brightly colored feathers, with darkness behind her. She holds a mask on a stick away from her face and gives a coy, mischievous smile. The line of cleavage from her breasts peeks out from behind the feath- ers. I look at the picture for several moments before I realize: this is my sister. And that is how Riley works: she appears where I do not expect her, in a place where I was not looking for her. And when I do find her, I barely recognize her. I wake up early in my hotel bed, then brave the remote to switch on the news; temperatures today will be relatively mild, midforties with low wind. After the winter we’ve been having up north, that sounds like spring. I lose myself again staring out the window as light rises to shine on the adjacent brick buildings. If she were dead, I would know it in my body; I am sure I would. I pour water from the sink into the coffee brewer and push the on button. Riley. She’s changed her address, phone number, and email address, all without tell- ing me or Alex or Dad. But why? Did she have a bad breakup? A stalker? A problem with work? Taxes? People don’t just fall off the face of the earth. Do they? I sit on the edge of the bed and drink my coffee. She could be hurt, alone, scared. Or, then again, maybe her boyfriend is a member of the Saudi royal family and she’s with him on his yacht right now, lying on a beach chair off the coast of Dubai. Maybe she needs to keep quiet about it because he’s married. Maybe she’s in the witness protection program. Maybe she’s a spy. I think about these things, and there is a pull on my insides, a sour kind of ache of something I half know but don’t want to admit. Maybe Riley started using opioids again. And if that’s happening, we really need to be worried. Riley, where are you? End of Excerpt Excerpt Copyright © Elizabeth de Veer. Shared with permission. About the Book The Ocean in Winter The lives of the three Emery sisters were changed forever when Alex, eleven at the time, found their mother drowned in the bathtub of their home. After their mother's suicide, the girls' father shut down emotionally, leaving Alex responsible for caring for Colleen, then eight, and little Riley, just four. Now the girls are grown and navigating different directions. Alex, a nurse, has been traveling in India and grieving her struggle to have a child; Colleen is the devoted mother of preteens in denial that her marriage is ending; and Riley has been leading what her sisters imagine to be the dream life of a successful model in New York City. Decades may have passed, but the unresolved trauma of their mother's death still looms over them creating distance between the sisters. Then on a March night, a storm rages near the coast of northeastern Massachusetts. Alex sits alone in an old farmhouse she inherited from a stranger. The lights are out because of the storm; then, an unexpected knock at the door. When Alex opens it, her beautiful younger sister stands before her. Riley has long been estranged from their family, prompting Colleen to hire the private investigator from whom they'd been awaiting news. Comforted by her unexpected presence, Alex holds back her nagging questions: How had Riley found her? Wouldn't the dirt roads have been impassable in the storm? Why did Riley insist on disappearing back into the night? After her mysterious visitation, Alex and Colleen are determined to reconcile with Riley and to face their painful past, but the closer they come to finding their missing sister, the more they fear they'll only be left with Riley's secrets. An unforgettable story about grief, love, and what it means to be haunted, The Ocean in Winter marks the debut of a remarkable new voice in fiction. Blackstone Publishing | Amazon | Barnes & Noble ''Do we choose our memories, or do our memories choose us? That's the central question for the three sisters in Elizabeth de Veer's emotionally rich, incandescent debut novel. The Ocean in Winter is a page-turner of a book with a family mystery at its core, and profoundly explores the ways in which women struggle to rebuild their lives after grief and trauma. You won't want to put it down once you start.'' — Holly Robinson, author of Beach Plum Island and Chance Harbor The Author Elizabeth de Veer has a Master of Theological Studies from Harvard Divinity School and has been admitted to writing residencies at the Jentel Artist Residency, the Hambidge Center for Creative Arts and Sciences, and the Virginia Center for the Creative Arts. She is a member of several writing groups, including Grub Street Writers’ Collective of Boston, the Newburyport Writers’ Group, Sisters in Crime New England, and the New Hampshire Writers’ Project. She lives in a small town in Northeast Massachusetts with her husband, daughter, and labradoodle. To learn more, check out her web site at elizabethdeveer.com . Connect with Elizabeth on Facebook and Instagram . Genre: Women's Fiction Type: Novel Publisher: Blackstone Publishing Publication Date: July 6, 2021 Content Rating: View our rating system 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!

Whether you're a seasoned mystery aficionado or new to the genre, this book promises a journey filled with intrigue that you won’t want to miss out on. Check out Murder on West Lake by I. M. Foster! A scream shattered the tranquil air, echoing off the ice-covered lake, and Daniel's heart froze. He knew that voice all too well. About Murder on West Lake by I.M. Foster A scream shattered the tranquil air, echoing off the ice-covered lake, and Daniel's heart froze. He knew that voice all too well. After a pleasant afternoon of ice skating on the frozen waters of West Lake, local librarian Kathleen Brissedon stumbles across a gruesome sight in the nearby gazebo. It only takes a moment for her beau, assistant coroner Doctor Daniel O'Halleran, to determine that the victim was murdered. To protect Kathleen from the ghastly sight of the man’s slashed throat, Daniel insists she return home while he examines the body further. Though the immediate cause of death appears obvious, he fears the subsequent autopsy will uncover more questions than answers, and it's clear that he has his work cut out for him if he's going to find the person responsible. Kathleen has no intention of remaining demurely at home, not when there's a murder to solve. Slipping back to the scene, she conducts her own investigation. Though her discoveries prove interesting, Daniel is too concerned about her safety to stifle his annoyance, especially after the killer makes a second attempt closer to home. But as the puzzle pieces begin to fall into place and Daniel starts closing in on the truth, the killer sets their sights on him. With the danger increasing, Kathleen intent on assisting in the investigation, and his family descending on Patchogue to spend the Christmas holidays, Daniel has his hands full. Will he and Kathleen be able to put their heads together and discover who is behind the attacks, or will the killer continue to plague the tranquil South Shore village unhindered? Buy the Book Kindle | Paperback As of this posting, this title is available in Kindle Unlimited. Meet I.M. Foster I. M. Foster is the pen name author Inez Foster uses to write her South Shore Mystery series, set on Edwardian Long Island. Inez also writes historical romances under the pseudonym Andrea Matthews, and has so far published two series in that genre: the Thunder on the Moor series, a time-travel romance set on the 16th century Anglo-Scottish Borders, and the Cross of Ciaran series, which follows the adventures of a fifth century Celt who finds himself in love with a twentieth century archaeologist. Inez is a historian and librarian, who love to read and write and search around for her roots, genealogically speaking. She has a BA in History and an MLS in Library Science and enjoys the research almost as much as she does writing the story. In fact, many of her ideas come to her while doing casual research or digging into her family history. Inez is a member of the Long Island Romance Writers, and the Historical Novel Society. Website:  www.imfostermysteries.com   Connect/Follow Online Amazon  | BookBub  | Goodreads  | Twitter/X  | Facebook  | Instagram Title: Murder on West Lake Series: South Shore Mystery series – Book 3 Author: I. M. Foster Publication Date: December 9th, 2024 Pages: 438 Genre: Historical Mystery Thank you for visiting Books & Benches! Consider helping the authors who write the books by sharing this post.

Driven by violence, treachery, and the sea's merciless tides, their fates collide. 'A compelling blend of historical detail and inspired storytelling.' —Tony Riches, author of The Brandon Trilogy . The Fugitive's Sword by Eleanor Swift-Hook Autumn 1624 Europe is deeply embroiled in what will become the Thirty Years' War. A young Philip Lord, once favoured at King James' court, has vanished without a trace, under the shadow of treason. Outside the besieged city of Breda, Captain Matthew Rider faces the brutal reality of wintering his cavalry in the siege lines, until he crosses paths with Filippo Schiavono, a young man whose courage and skill could change everything. Kate, Lady Catherine de Bouqulement, arrives in London prepared to navigate the dangerous politics of King James' court to ensure troops are sent to her mistress, the exiled Queen of Bohemia. Within Breda’s walls, a foundling named Jorrit unwittingly stumbles into a lethal conspiracy when Schiavono hires him, supposedly to help sell smuggled tobacco. But Schiavono’s plans go awry and they are compelled to flee the city, only to be captured at sea. If Schiavono is unable to prove his loyalty and ruthlessness to a savage Dunkirker privateer captain, both he and Jorrit will face certain death. Meanwhile, in London, Kate is forced to fight her own battle against those seeking to coerce her into their schemes and finds herself trapped in a terrifying and deadly power struggle. Driven by violence, treachery, and the sea's merciless tides, their fates collide. Buy the Book: Kindle | Paperback At the time of this posting, this title is in Kindle Unlimited. Enjoy an Excerpt from The Fugitive's Sword  by Eleanor Swift-Hook Inside the besieged city of Breda, November 1624   “Love maketh lean the fat men’s tumour, So doth tobacco. Love still dries up the wanton humour, So doth tobacco.”   Jorrit heard the voice raised lightly in song and scrambled out from his hiding place behind the tavern’s cesspit. The Englishman. If Jorrit was quick enough he might get to him before any of the other boys, as he had on a previous occasion. Then he might hope to earn some pennings. Many pennings indeed. The last time he had helped the Englishman he had been rewarded with a whole dubbeltje. Incentive enough to send Jorrit scurrying.   “Love makes men sail from shore to shore, So doth tobacco. ‘Tis fond love often makes men poor So doth tobacco.”   Having some understanding of English, Jorrit heard the words and knew what the Englishman would be bringing. He was a tobacco smuggler.   Breda had had plenty of time to prepare itself for the siege and was well provisioned with just about everything from ham and cheese to bread and fruit, and there were animals and stocks of grain ready at need. Everyone, even Jorrit, knew they could last until next year easily and no one thought for a moment the Spanish would stay so long as that. It was late November and once the winter really began to bite, they would die like flies and those who were left would desert or withdraw. That was of course if the Stadtholder Maurits, half-brother to Justinus von Nassau who commanded the garrison here, did not before that bring an army in strength and sweep the Spanish into the sea.   Jorrit had heard all this, and he had no reason to doubt it. But he also knew that when the burghers had laid their plans and made provision in their stocks and supplies, they had thought of wine and beer, but no one had considered that they might need a supply of tobacco. He knew because everyone complained about it.   Which was why the Englishman came sneaking into the city. Tobacco here was worth ten times what he might get for it in Amsterdam or Haarlem or even amongst the Spanish outside the walls. The Englishman was just one of the men risking his life to penetrate those Spanish troops and reach the defences where there were many eager to help him inside with his precious cargo. And then he needed boys like Jorrit to help carry the load and distribute his wares.   “Love makes men scorn all coward fears, So doth tobacco. Love often sets men by the ears, So doth tobacco.”   To Jorrit’s delight there were no other boys in sight. But then it was not yet dawn and the only people who were up were those preparing for the working day. If he had not been out early to try and fish, Jorrit himself would have been curled up in his truckle in Moeder Machteld’s attic. As it was, he had not managed to fish at all and had even lost his line and the carefully collected bait. One of the men he had cozened out of five duits the previous day had also been out fishing and, seeing him, had given chase. Which was why Jorrit had concealed himself behind the cesspit in the first place.   If Moeder Machteld knew he had been out thieving again she would box his ears and maybe even throw him out of the house. If he could get honest work with the Englishman, he could bring her the money in good conscience and she would not believe the tales that the fisherman might take to her.   He caught up with the Englishman and then had to half run still to match his broad stride. He was carrying a huge pack, but the weight of it seemed not to slow him at all.   “You need a runner again, sir? I can help you, sir. You will remember I was very useful to you last time. I’m the boy who can speak English.”   The Englishman stopped and looked down at him. Despite himself Jorrit shivered inside. The man’s eyes were as cold as the sea in winter and the turquoise colour of it on a clear day. He wore a sword with a basket hilt and looked as if he would be happy to use it given any excuse. He had hair that was white, but not from age—far from it, he was not at all an old man. In fact, he looked no older than Pieter who’d just turned sixteen and had once been one of Moeder Machteld’s boys but now worked for her, keeping the house in good repair and turning away those who came to the door and were unwelcome. The Englishman was taller than Pieter though, but his shoulders were not so broad nor his chest as deep. He frowned now, as if annoyed that Jorrit had troubled him.   “I know my numbers,” Jorrit said quickly., “I can read and write too.” Moeder Machteld had seen to that as she did for all the boys she took under her roof. She made sure they all went to school at least two or three mornings each week and then made them read to her from their pocket books.   “If I remember, you are called Jorrit,” the Englishman said. “Last time I was here you found out some information for me.”   He had not forgotten.   Jorrit nodded and grinned. It had been easy enough. The Englishman had wanted to know the size and strength of the Spanish and defending forces around the southern gate and needed a sketch of the defences there so he could see if that might offer him a better route into the city. As time went on and the Spanish lines drew ever more tightly, Jorrit knew it was becoming harder for men to sneak in and out and new routes were needed.   “That’s me, sir. Can I help you again today, sir?”   The Englishman was looking at him with a little more interest now.   “I’m not sure, can you?” He hefted the heavy pack on his shoulders then slid it to the ground. “Here, you look strong enough. You can carry this.” End of excerpt. Copyright © Eleanor Swift-Hook Praise for Eleanor Swift-Hook 'Brutal, dark, and brilliant; it kept me gripped from the gruesome opening to the thrilling conclusion.' —Jemahl Evans, author of The Last Roundhead . 'Thrilling and powerful battle scenes, an intriguing conspiracy that runs through the books and a dash of romance – the Lord’s Legacy series has it all’ —Fiona Forsyth, author of the Publius Ovidius mysteries . Meet the Author Eleanor Swift-Hook enjoys the mysteries of history and fell in love with the early Stuart era at university when she re-enacted battles and living history events with the English Civil War Society. Since then, she has had an ongoing fascination with the social, military and political events that unfolded during the Thirty Years’ War and the Wars of the Three Kingdoms. The Soldier's Stand , book two in Lord's Learning and the sequel to The Fugitive's Sword , is now available for preorder  and will be released on 25 February, 2025.   She lives in County Durham and loves writing stories woven into the historical backdrop of those dramatic times. Website: www.eleanorswifthook.com Twitter/X | Facebook | BlueSky | BookBub | Amazon | Goodreads This blog tour was organized by: Book Details Book Title: The Fugitive’s Sword Series: Lord’s Learning, book 1 Author: Eleanor Swift-Hook Publication Date: 8th October 2024 Publisher: Schiavona Books Pages: 305 Genre: Historical Adventure