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THE BOOK A READER'S OPINION Sweet romance! Nancy Fraser is a new author for me. When I saw the cover of her novella, I thought it looked like fun to read. Well, she didn't disappoint me! In fact, if you are searching for a sweet and quick read then Bewitched will be perfect for you! The characters, Allison and Eric, are so charming! This story is set in the 60's. Since it's a short story, I'll only offer a brief review. Allison operates a day care with her friend and has two younger brothers, Benny and Philip, who are always in trouble. She needs a distraction! Suddenly, a new neighbor moves in. He's tall, dark ,and handsome! Eric hadn't planned to move in a neighborhood with lots of kids, until he meets the charming young woman in charge of the day care. Will she bake some of her famous choco-blast cookies to catch him? Will he become her main distraction? This story is a romantic, girl-meets-boy and fall in love experience! Star Rating: 4 Stars | Content Rating : 3 Hearts | Reviewed by : Nicole Laverdure BUY AT AMAZON | VIEW OUR RATING SYSTEM BOOK SYNOPSIS Allison Stiles is the epitome of responsibility. Guardian to her two rambunctious younger brothers, she also runs a home daycare. While she doesn't have time for a vacation, she really needs a diversion. Enter Eric Thomas, her new neighbor. Tall, dark and handsome and just what she needs to get her mind off her responsibilities, even if only for a short time. Print Length: 59 pages Publisher: The Wild Rose Press, Inc Publication Date: October 7, 2016 Format Read : E-Book | Source: Provided by the author or publisher. VIEW FTC DISCLAIMER REGARDING BOOK REVIEWS Receive our weekly roundup of posts, reviews, interviews, and special deals directly in your inbox. Delivered once a week—no spam . #AReadersOpinion

THE BOOK A Frontier Romance A READER'S OPINION A unique frontier romance set in 1867 British Columbia. I was drawn to this book because I know a bit about British Columbia history during the time period and always found it fascinating. Most of the history isn't covered in the book but the author brought me into the frontier wilds and kept me there from start to end. At first I wondered why Hope would believe a man's promise not to touch her since he is a stranger and she can't know if he'd keep his word. Out of desperation, Hope calls on the meaning of her namesake to trust in a stranger. Luke and Hope showed a lot of willpower by keeping their distance all the while their growing affection for one another became stronger. Their romance blossoms at they same time they must face a number of crises and a devastating separation. Will Luke find his way back to Hope? Will Hope find a way to hold onto her strength and faith in Luke and their love? A bit of head hopping and questionable events had me wishing for some tightening up here and there but I was impressed with the author's overall research. Elaine Dodge has a unique style and has written an enjoyable frontier romance. Star Rating: 4 Stars | Content Rating : 3 Hearts | Reviewed by : Kaylie Morgan BUY AT AMAZON | VIEW OUR RATING SYSTEM BOOK SYNOPSIS Spring, 1867 The western frontier of British Columbia hardly seems a likely place for romance. Filthy, terrified and confused, Hope Booker is waiting to be sold off the ‘bride’ ship. Luke Harcourt happens upon the sale. It’s not love at first sight, but he feels compelled to save her from a life of slavery and prostitution. To allay her fears of being raped by him, Luke promises never to touch her. Being a man of his word, this is a pledge he quickly finds almost impossible to keep. Battling their growing attraction to each other, they must learn to live together in the forests of the wild and almost unexplored mountains. They face white water, Indians, wolves, as well as a dangerous man from Hope’s past. No longer able to deny their feelings, their ‘happy-ever-after’ is shattered when a corrupt land baron forces Luke’s hand. Enraged at the man’s actions, Luke rides into town—and disappears. Alone and pregnant, Hope faces the prospect of the worst winter in ten years. The trauma of fighting off a hungry grizzly brings on labor, but the baby is stuck. Luke meanwhile wakes up on a ship bound for South America, captained by a revengeful sadist who plans to murder him. Luke’s chances of survival are slim. Can he stay alive and make it back to Hope in time? Format Read : E-Book | Source: Provided by the author or publisher. VIEW FTC DISCLAIMER REGARDING BOOK REVIEWS Receive our weekly roundup of posts, reviews, interviews, and special deals directly in your inbox. Delivered once a week—no spam . #AReadersOpinion #HistoricalRomance

THE BOOK World of de Wolfe Pack, Kindle Worlds Novella A READER'S OPINION A fun novella! This is the first time that I read a story written by Cathy MacRae and I didn’t know what to expect! Well, The Saint , part of World of de Wolfe Pack, was fun to read and well written with two charming characters, Geoffrey and Marsaili! The Saint tells the adventure of Geoffrey de Wylde, also known as "The Saint," who is the nephew of the magnificent William de Wolfe, created by Kathryn Le Veque. Running away from her brother-in-law who accuses her of the murder of her late husband, Marsaili is on a journey of twists and turns. Along the way, she encounters Geoffrey, a knight with a strict code who will decide to protect her from danger! However, he hadn’t planned this for he had planned to become a monk. Therefore, will he be able to protect and resist this feisty woman? Reviewer's Rating : 4 Stars | Content Rating : 4 Hearts | Reviewed by : Nicole Laverdure BUY AT AMAZON | VIEW OUR RATING SYSTEM BOOK SYNOPSIS Following in the footsteps of his uncle, the famous Lord William de Wolfe, Geoffrey de Wylde is counted among the greatest knights England had ever known. Revered for his justness and strict adherence to the chivalric code, he was known as The Saint. Fleeing the unwanted attentions of her late husband's brother, Marsaili de Ville runs headlong into the path of The Saint. She wants nothing more than to reach the safety of her family's home in Scotland before Edmund de Ville’s henchmen capture her, but Geoffrey de Wylde insists on becoming her protector, slowing her flight and putting her unknowingly at risk. As her past catches up with her, Marsaili will find more than a safe haven in The Saint’s arms. And Geoffrey de Wylde will discover his code does not tell him what to do with a woman who has been accused of murder, yet has captured his heart. Print Length: 167 pages Publisher: Kindle Worlds Publication Date: September 4, 2016 Format Read : E-Book | Source: Provided by the author or publisher. VIEW FTC DISCLAIMER REGARDING BOOK REVIEWS Receive our weekly roundup of posts, reviews, interviews, and special deals directly in your inbox. Delivered once a week—no spam . #AReadersOpinion #HistoricalRomance

THE BOOK Highland Bodyguards, Book One A READER'S OPINION Scottish Highlands 1314 One man's burning desire to protect and love a woman means he's willing to betray his honour to King and country! Ansel Sutherland is an elite warrior and one of Robert the Bruce's right hand men, having fought numerous battles by his side, and is a man of honor and integrity. When he's tasked with a mission of protecting the bastard son of the hated English Earl of Lancaster, Ansel takes his mission to heart. His devotion to King and country is legendary . . . after all he is the only one of the group of men who hasn't succumbed to love and married. He's not like them . . . or is he? Lady Isolda of Embleton has mystery written all over her with her stiff backbone and English manners, but all is not as it seems. Hiding behind the title of "Lady" has helped to keep her secrets hidden. Vulnerable and alone, she needs to keep the illusion of security and a strong front, but when her life and the life of the only person that means everything to her in the world, is threatened, she can not reveal the truth, even to the handsome barbarian sent to protect her. If only the attraction she feels for the rugged Highlander wasn't so hard to resist, but her wanton desires are her downfall. Ansel is drawn to Isolda and can't keep his hands to himself, and the attraction is mutual. She's in his blood. His honour will be tested and making her his own is inevitable. But with love comes trust. Can Isolda trust Ansel with her secret or will it be their destruction? Can this honour-bound Highlander be the protector of her heart? One sensational roller coaster ride of emotions after another. Emma Prince is a phenomenal writer! Reviewer's Rating : 5 Stars | Content Rating : 4 1/2 Hearts | Reviewed by : Maria Rose Dariotis BUY AT AMAZON | VIEW OUR RATING SYSTEM BOOK SYNOPSIS The Battle of Bannockburn may be over, but the war is far from won. Her Protector… Ansel Sutherland is charged with a mission from King Robert the Bruce to protect the illegitimate son of a powerful English Earl. Though Ansel bristles at aiding an Englishman, the nature of the war for Scottish independence is changing, and he is honor-bound to serve as a bodyguard. He arrives in England to fulfill his assignment, only to meet the beautiful but secretive Lady Isolda, who refuses to tell him where his ward is. When a mysterious attacker threatens Isolda’s life, Ansel realizes he is the only thing standing between her and deadly peril. His Lady… Lady Isolda harbors dark secrets—secrets she refuses to reveal to the rugged Highland rogue who arrives at her castle demanding answers. But Ansel’s dark eyes cut through all her defenses, threatening to undo her resolve. To protect her past, she cannot submit to the white-hot desire that burns between them. As the threat to her life spirals out of control, she has no choice but to trust Ansel to whisk her to safety deep in the heart of the Highlands… Print Length: 366 pages Publication Date: May 19, 2016 Format Read : E-Book | Source: Provided by the author or publisher. VIEW FTC DISCLAIMER REGARDING BOOK REVIEWS Receive our weekly roundup of posts, reviews, interviews, and special deals directly in your inbox. Delivered once a week—no spam . #AReadersOpinion #HighlandRomance #5Stars

THE BOOK Highlands' Lairds, Book One A READER'S OPINION Call me a sucker for a Highland romance because I love Julie Garwood's, The Secret . Iain and Judith are a wonderful pair. Two strong individuals with their own worries, ideas, and passions come together with great dialogue and sigh-worthy passion. Garwood breaks some so-called writing rules in a few of her earlier books, but I don't pay attention to them because I love the book. It's a feel-good story with a well-worn spine because it's been read numerous times. This is a highly recommended book for anyone who loves historical Highland romance. Star Rating: 5 Stars | Content Rating : 5 Hearts | Reviewed by : MK McClintock BUY AT AMAZON | VIEW OUR RATING SYSTEM BOOK SYNOPSIS Judith Hampton was as beautiful as she was proud and loyal. Her dear Scottish friend from childhood was about to give birth, and Judith had promised to be at her side. But there was another, private reason for the journey from her bleak English home to the Highlands: to meet the father she had never known, the Laird Maclean. Nothing prepared her, however, for the sight of the Scottish barbarian who was to escort her into his land...Iain Maitland, Laird of his clan, a man more powerfully compelling than any she had ever encountered. In a spirited clash of wills and customs, Judith reveled in the melting bliss of Iain's searching kisses, his passionate caresses. Perplexed by her sprightly defiance, bemused by her tender nature, Iain felt his soul growing into the light and warmth of her love. Surely nothing would wrench her from the affection and trust of Iain and his clan...not even the truth about her father, a devastating secret that could shatter the boldest alliance, and the most glorious of loves! ​ Publisher: Pocket Books Format Read : Mass Market Paperback | Source: From the reviewer's personal library. VIEW FTC DISCLAIMER REGARDING BOOK REVIEWS Receive our weekly roundup of posts, reviews, interviews, and special deals directly in your inbox. Delivered once a week—no spam . #AReadersOpinion #HistoricalRomance #HighlandRomance #5Stars

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

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

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

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

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

THE BOOK Disaster Crimes, Book 2 A READER'S OPINION Murder, danger and romance come together in Seismic Crimes , book two of Chrys Fey's "Disaster Crime" series. Donovan and Beth are thrust into one traumatic event after another as Donovan tries to prove his innocence and Beth does whatever she can to help him. The characters are interesting but I felt some could have been a little more developed. I thought the author did a great job making the disaster scenes, and the terror, feel realistic Seismic Crimes offers up a lot of action to keep the reader interested in the story until the end. This can be read as a stand-alone book, but readers might find it helpful to read book one first. I felt like I had come in on the middle of a story and relationship, and I had to catch up. Chrys Fey's "Disaster Crime" series has a lot of promise. Reviewer's Rating : 3 1/2 Stars | Content Rating : 5 Hearts | Reviewed by : Kaylie Morgan BUY AT AMAZON | VIEW OUR RATING SYSTEM BOOK SYNOPSIS An Internal Affairs Investigator was murdered and his brother, Donovan Goldwyn, was framed. Now Donovan is desperate to prove his innocence. And the one person who can do that is the woman who saved him from a deadly hurricane—Beth Kennedy. From the moment their fates intertwined, passion consumed him. He wants her in his arms. More, he wants her by his side in his darkest moments. Beth Kennedy may not know everything about Donovan, but she can't deny what she feels for him. It's her love for him that pushes her to do whatever she has to do to help him get justice, including putting herself in a criminal's crosshairs. When a tip reveals the killer's location, they travel to California, but then an earthquake of catastrophic proportions separates them. As aftershocks roll the land, Beth and Donovan have to endure dangerous conditions while trying to find their way back to one another. Will they reunite and find the killer, or will they lose everything? Take a walk with Chrys Fey through disasters, criminal activity, and blooming love. Adult Content 18+: Sensual scenes A few f-bombs References to crimes Crime scene depictions that may not be suitable for sensitive readers Format Read : E-Book | Source: Provided by the author or publisher. VIEW FTC DISCLAIMER REGARDING BOOK REVIEWS Receive our weekly roundup of posts, reviews, interviews, and special deals directly in your inbox. Delivered once a week—no spam . #AReadersOpinion #ContemporaryRomance

THE BOOK Matchmaking for Wallflowers, Book 2 A READER'S OPINION Charming Regency romance! A Rogue to Avoid is Bianca Blythe's second story in her Matchmaking Wallflowers series. I was expecting the same intensity as in How to Capture a Duke , but that doesn't seem to be the case. Mind you, it's well written and I liked it, but it's missing that touch that really grabs your attention! It's the beautiful tale of Gerard, a Scottish scoundrel and Cordelia, an English wallflower! The story starts as Gerard is running away from a debt collector named Oggleton, who wants to collect the money that Gerard's deceased mother had contracted. Trying to escape, Gerard comes crashing down at a ball where Cordelia, known as the Ice Queen, is trying to mingle with the other young debutantes searching for husbands. They are so different: Gerard with a scoundrel attitude and Cordelia, a lady with a snobbish touch! However, he needs to find a wife—a rich wife—to help him pay Oggleton. Together they will embark on an adventure that started on a misunderstanding, but as they share time together, there will be trust and then romance. Will Gerard offer Cordelia a marriage of convenience without expectations or a marriage of love? Just follow their journey filled with twists and turns. I will definitely try another story by Bianca Blythe! Reviewer's Rating : 4 Stars | Content Rating : 5 Hearts | Reviewed by : Nicole Laverdure BUY AT AMAZON | VIEW OUR RATING SYSTEM BOOK SYNOPSIS The only thing Lady Cordelia and Lord Rockport can agree on is their mutual abhorrence. Lady Cordelia was supposed to be the perfect debutante. But three broken engagements later, she's the subject of titters rather than laudations. Now relegated to the wallflower section of every ballroom, she does not want anything to plummet her further into scandal. She absolutely does not want to have anything to do with the too handsome, too roguish, too Scottish Marquess of Rockport. Gerard Highgate, Marquess of Rockport, is not the type to attend balls. But when he is chased into a home in Harrogate, he decides he must blend in—even if that means dancing with Lady Cordelia. Print Length: 231 pages Publication Date: September 19, 2016 Format Read : E-Book | Source: Provided by the author or publisher. VIEW FTC DISCLAIMER REGARDING BOOK REVIEWS Receive our weekly roundup of posts, reviews, interviews, and special deals directly in your inbox. Delivered once a week—no spam . #AReadersOpinion #RegencyRomance