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Please join us in welcoming author Cynthia Owens from Canada to Books & Benches for an interview. Cynthia is the talented author of the Claddagh Series and Wild Geese series. " Yesterday’s Promise is a well-written historical romance that ends on a forever love note! Please give this novel a chance because you won’t be disappointed!" — Books & Benches We asked, Cynthia answered . . . In 250 words or less, what can you tell us about your newest release? …Like the Wild Geese of Old Ireland, five boys grew to manhood despite hunger, war, and the mean streets of New York… An army doctor, Declan Morrissey fought for the survival of every wounded soldier, rejoicing when they recovered, mourning bitterly when they died. Valerie Stanton was his beautiful battlefield nurse, strong, courageous, and dedicated. He never dreamed she was an heiress, or that she’d break his heart in a desperate gamble to save the life of another man. Now that they’ve found each other again, can they overcome past deception and claim the happily ever after they dreamed of? What story are you working on next, and what inspired it? At the moment, I’m working on the final book of the Wild Geese Series, The Carousel . It’s the story of Kieran Donnelly, a gifted artist who has refused to paint since he returned from the American Civil War. He’s seen so much ugliness that he no longer has the heart to paint beauty. Until he meets Emily Lawrence, the beautiful blind girl who challenges him to face the horrors of the battlefield. The inspiration for this story was twofold. When I created Kieran Donnelly, I thought, “Who better to heal a wounded artist than a blind woman?” And the inspiration for Emily was my late grandmother, Emma Laflamme. Blind from the age of 40, she still lived a full life, and one of my most enduring memories is of her standing at her kitchen counter kneading bread—the most wonderful, mouth-watering bread I’ve tasted to this day! As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? I had many ambitions as a child. After I read Heidi (still one of my favorite stories), I decided I wanted to live in the Alps and raise goats. Shortly afterward, I discovered the Nancy Drew and Trixie Belden books. I was hooked, and I became obsessed with the idea of being a “girl detective” just like them. But a funny thing happened along the way. After I’d read every Nancy and Trixie book my school and community libraries had, I started writing stories continuing their detective adventures. Soon I began to create my own characters, and the rest, as they say, is history. By the time I was twelve, I knew I couldn’t be happy unless I was writing. What are three things people may not know about you? Well, let’s see. I collect things. My favorite thing to collect is music boxes. I have a Lennox collectible music box commemorating the 50th anniversary of Irving Berlin’s "White Christmas." Another, featuring a bird dancing on its perch in a cage, plays "O, What a Beautiful Morning" from Oklahoma. As a teenager who liked her sleep after a late night of reading, my mother would come into my room and sing that song when she decided I slept too late. I still get teary-eyed when I hear that tune. I’m searching for a Phantom of the Opera music box, but so far no luck. I love winter! I look forward to the first snow every year, and the earlier the better. I also love to drive up to the Laurentian Mountains and go cross-country skiing. And sitting by a roaring fire with a cup of tea or hot chocolate is a great way to wind up a cold winter day! I once took a fencing class. I wasn’t very good (not aggressive enough, I suppose) but it was fun. I saw that my town was offering the class, and I thought, “What if I one day write a swashbuckling pirate hero?” So I signed up! What is your favorite scene in Yesterday’s Promise ? It has to be the scene at Catherine Graham’s ball! A very posh, high society ball, where Valerie and her brother have been forced to appear, even though Valerie isn’t received in society because of her past (she ran away from her family to become an army nurse). There are some nasty comments about her—all uttered in very audible undertones, of course—and all Valerie wants to do is run away and hide. Then our hero, Declan steps in. He sweeps her onto the dance floor, chasing away her tears and her feeling of inadequacy. It’s a scene that’s both touching and tender, and after I wrote it I absolutely loved it! Yesterday's Promise Wild Geese Series, Book Four …Like the Wild Geese of Old Ireland, five boys grew to manhood despite hunger, war, and the mean streets of New York… An army doctor, Declan Morrissey fought for the survival of every wounded soldier, rejoicing when they recovered, mourning bitterly when they died. Valerie Stanton was his beautiful battlefield nurse, strong, courageous, and dedicated. He never dreamed she was an heiress, or that she’d break his heart in a desperate gamble to save the life of another man. Now that they’ve found each other again, can they overcome past deception and claim the happily ever after they dreamed of? GET THE BOOK The Author I believe I was destined to be interested in history. One of my distant ancestors, Thomas Aubert, reportedly sailed up the St. Lawrence River to discover Canada some 26 years before Jacques Cartier’s 1534 voyage. Another relative was a 17thCentury “King’s Girl,” one of a group of young unmarried girls sent to New France (now the province of Quebec) as brides for the habitants (settlers) there. My passion for reading made me long to write books like the ones I enjoyed, and I tried penning sequels to my favorite Nancy Drew mysteries. Later, fancying myself a female version of Andrew Lloyd Weber, I drafted a musical set in Paris during WWII. A former journalist and lifelong Celtophile, I enjoyed a previous career as a reporter/editor for a small chain of community newspapers before returning to my first love, romantic fiction. My stories usually include an Irish setting, hero or heroine, and sometimes all three. I’m the author of The Claddagh Series, historical romances set in Ireland and beyond, and The Wild Geese Series, in which five Irish heroes return from the American Civil War to find love and adventure. I’m a member of the Romance Writers of America, Hearts Through History Romance Writers, and Celtic Hearts Romance Writers. A lifelong resident of Montreal, Canada, I still live there with my own Celtic hero and our two teenage children. Visit the author at www.cynthiaowensromancewriter.com . #AuthorInterview #HistoricalRomance

THE BOOK A Prairie Romance A READER'S OPINION Moving On is a beautifully written story about healing, and struggling to find a fresh start after a tragic loss. Anna and Nick share a journey to become a whole again after each have gone through more than what the average person can understand. What stood out to me most was how the author approached the grief of both characters. Neither is perfect and yet they are each what the other needs. Anna struggles with her growing feelings because she is unsure if she could risk losing someone else. Nick needs to discover who he is as a changed man and how that will affect his future. I wish there had been a little more to the ending but the characters and the easy reading style made this a sweet and enjoyable book to read. The setting is just right for the story and Anna's neighbors are sure to make you smile. But what about Nick and Anna? Will they be able to put their fears and loss behind them? Will they find a way to use their tragedies to become stronger? The answers are worth finding out. Reviewer's Rating : 4 Stars | Content Rating : 1 Hearts | Reviewed by : Kaylie Morgan BUY AT AMAZON | VIEW OUR RATING SYSTEM BOOK SYNOPSIS Anna is a mysterious young widow who just moved to Regina Beach. The residents of the small town know everyone’s business and they are very keen on discovering Anna’s secrets. She meets Nick, a Sergeant in the Canadian Army, until a horrific accident sent him home to recover from his injuries sustained in an IED explosion. He helps Anna feel safe and comfortable in her new environment, just as he has always done for his men in strange, dangerous places. Meanwhile, he focuses on preparing for his future physical endurance test to prove that he is capable of returning to active duty. Because Anna doesn’t talk about her past and Nick doesn’t talk about his future, she is shocked to discover that his greatest wish is to return to active duty. Afraid of getting hurt, she won’t love a man who may die on the job again. Intellectually, she knows that all life cycles end, but emotionally, she doesn’t know if she has the strength to support Nick. Print Length: 212 pages Publisher: Soul Mate Publishing Publication Date: September 29, 2014 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 "Delightful novella!" A READER'S OPINION Delightful! Becky Lower is a new author for me and I really enjoyed her novella, A Regency Yuletide ! It's well written, refreshing, and so romantic with her two charming characters, Sophie and Jeremy! If you love short Christmas stories, then this novella will please you! When Sophie's father died, she and her mother, Evelyn had to leave the estate where they lived as a family. Since they had no heir, the estate was now managed by a ruthless uncle who only wanted to get rid of them. Now both ladies are living in a small cottage on the estate. Sophie has to find a way to make their lives better, and either marry the vicar's son or wait for true love. Enters in their lives, Jeremy, a business partner with his best friend Thomas. Will Sophie be able to resist his charm? Is Jeremy ready to settle down and have a family? Will the spirit of Yuletide do it's magic? It's a romantic story of ''And they lived happily ever after''! I will surely watch her next books! Reviewer's Rating : 4 1/2 Stars | Content Rating : 1 Hearts | Reviewed by : Nicole Laverdure BUY AT AMAZON | VIEW OUR RATING SYSTEM BOOK SYNOPSIS After a disappointing season in London, Sophie Davenport returns home without a marriage proposal. No sooner does she settle back into her country life than she learns her uncle has arranged for her to marry the local vicar’s son, a respectable and utterly forgettable man. He’s returning home immediately after the Christmas holiday and they will wed. She sets about making this last Christmas with just she and her mother memorable. Jeremy Wyatt hatches a plan to help his friend Thomas and his love, Emma, escape to Gretna Green and marry before her father comes after them. What he’s really doing is avoiding heading to his parents’ home, where he is the son who is always making the wrong choices. But their carriage becomes hopelessly mired in the mud from the incessant rains so Jeremy sets off to find shelter for them at the first house he comes to. Sophie welcomes the wet and weary travelers, and her mother agrees to house them temporarily until they can free the carriage. Sophie forms a bond not only with Emma, but with Jeremy. However despite the sparks they ignite in each other, they have to maintain their separate paths. But love and mistletoe have a way of upsetting even the best-laid plans. Print Length: 63 pages Publisher: Romance With Sass Publication Date: October 2, 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 #ChristmasBook #RegencyRomance #412Stars #ReviewersTopPick

THE BOOK Wild Geese Series Book 4 A READER'S OPINION Heartwarming romance! Cynthia Owens's novel, Yesterday's Promise , is a touching and captivating love story with an Irish touch! This author never disappoints me with her Wild Geese series, stories of five boys that came from old Ireland to flee hunger and war, and start fresh in America. In her three previous stories, we followed Shane, Cathal, and Dary, and the women who now share their lives. Set in 1868 in New York City. This time, we get to read about Declan's own journey from a war doctor to living his dream by helping people and offering his talents as a doctor at the Five Points dispensary. During the war, Declan and his nurse, Valerie had fallen in love. However, after the war ended she broke her promise and returned to the man she loved dearly. Heartbroken, Declan continues with his new life until Valerie enters his life a second time! The moment they meet again, old feelings are born again between the two! Does their love belong to the past? Can Valerie and Declan overcome their past, too? What will happen to her brother Edmund, who is suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder? Can Doctor Declan help him to forget his past and move on with his life? Together they will embark on a journey filled with twists and turns. Can destiny give them a second chance to live a better life? Ms. Owens really wrote a very touching story of three beautiful souls in search of hope and love! If you love historical romance with an Irish touch, then you are in for a treat! Yesterday’s Promise is a well-written historical romance that ends on a forever love note! Please give this novel a chance because you won’t be disappointed! Reviewer's Rating : 5 Stars | Content Rating : 5 Hearts | Reviewed by : Nicole Laverdure BUY AT AMAZON | VIEW OUR RATING SYSTEM BOOK SYNOPSIS Like the Wild Geese of Old Ireland, five boys grew to manhood despite hunger, war, and the mean streets of New York. An army doctor, Declan Morrissey fought for the survival of every wounded soldier, rejoicing when they recovered, mourning bitterly when they died. Valerie Stanton was his beautiful battlefield nurse, strong, courageous, and dedicated. He never dreamed she was an heiress, or that she’d break his heart in a desperate gamble to save the life of another man. Now that they’ve found each other again, can they overcome past deception and claim the happily ever after they dreamed of? Print Length: 274 pages Publisher: Highland Press Publishing Publication Date: October 2, 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 #5Stars

Legendary Bastards of the Crown Series Book 1 A READER'S OPINION Cambria, 1366 From Vengeance and Strife Legends are Born. Three brothers band together for vengeance runs deep in their veins! Triplets born and meant to die at birth by their superstitious father the King. Rowen the Restless, Rook the Ruthless, and Reed the Reckless, are destined to be legends as their mother had professed. But a devastating secret was revealed that changed the course of their lives. Lady Cordelia, a widow, plans to entice the king with her dowry to allow her the choice of her next spouse—preferably someone young—but alas, plans have a way of being thwarted. A chance meeting with a handsome blonde rogue at an inn, piques her curiosity and she follows him. It doesn't take Cordelia long to realize he's the Demon Thief! Rowen has no choice but to kidnap the bewitching Cordelia. He steals a kiss . . . and more. She's definitely gotten under his skin! A plot is in the works and with Cordelia as the pawn, will Rowen win the game? Can he betray his brothers and accept the King's terms? Will his destiny be fulfilled? Follow Rowen and Cordelia on the journey to their happily ever after. Elizabeth Rose is a sensational author who never disappoints! Reviewer's Rating : 4 1/2 Stars | Content Rating : 4 Hearts | Reviewed by : Maria Rose Dariotis BOOK SYNOPSIS Rowen the Restless is one of the bastard triplets of King Edward III. At birth, the king ordered them killed, fearing the superstitions of triplets being evil spawns of the devil who would only bring him bad luck. However, someone didn't want the babies to die, and the boys' lives were saved in secret. Now, over two decades later, Rowen and his brothers, Rook and Reed, are out for vengeance on the man who sired them and wanted them dead. Finally finding out the truth of being the English king's bastards on the night of Burnt Candlemas ten years earlier, the young boys' lives changed drastically as they were split apart in the turmoil that devastated their homeland of Scotland. Being stolen and raised by pirates, Rowen now commands a ship and works with his brothers who live in the crypts and the hills, to steal from the king and bring the riches to the Scots instead. No one knows that the legendary Demon Thief who manages to always disappear before he is caught, and who can even change his hair color from blond to red to black, is not one man, but three brothers, each with a small army of their own. Lady Cordelia of Whitehaven is a young widow who wants nothing more than to have children. She happens to end up in the wrong place at the wrong time and before she knows it, she's been taken captive by a pirate who has stolen her dowry that she plans on using to convince the king to let her marry a new husband of her own choosing. The sea captain is handsome and exciting, and protects her from being ravaged by his crew. While he's mysterious, Cordelia realizes he is very restless and has deep, dark secrets that disturb him. She hopes to uncover the secrets of the restless sea lord because she sees a noble man trapped inside, making him more of a prisoner than her. Format Read : E-Book | Source: Provided by the author or publisher. #AReadersOpinion #HistoricalRomance

Ian must convince Lara she and her twins are the future he truly wants. A READER'S OPINION Willa Blair has outdone herself! I just finished reading Waiting for the Laird , written by Willa Blair. This author has done it again! I got so captivated as soon as I started turning the pages—from the first page until the very end. A real page turner! This story was fantastic! This author is a high quality writer who knows how to pull you into her story with words flowing. I could feel Ms. Blair's interest in the history and tales of Scotland. When you start this novel, you won't be able to stop. This Scottish tale tells the story of young widow, Lara, and her two nine years old twins, Amy and Alexander, who will play an important part in this story, and of course, Ian, the handsome architect. Their story is mainly set in a Scottish Cairn Dubh Manor that holds secrets, Scottish artifacts, and even maybe a ghost! Lara hired Ian to help her to restore the older parts of the manor, but as they spend more time together, their relationship will grow. Is Ian truly the man he appears to be? Is he hiding a secret? Will Lara find out Cairn Dubh's history? Let's say that while renovating the old ruins, they discover the unexpected, that might change Lara, Ian, and the twin's lives forever! I won't tell you the rest to keep the mystery going. Beautiful sweet chemistry between Lara and Ian. It's so refreshing to follow their relationship and watch it grow with kisses here and there, then a journey of teasing and seducing begins with a beautiful and unexpected ending! I have to say that Ms. Blair is a talented storyteller of Scottish tales. I had so much fun reading Waiting for the Laird , knowing now that it really reflects Lara and Ian's sweet and romantic story. I'm never disappointed with the author's Scottish adventures! I truly enjoyed every minute of it! Reviewed by: Nicole Laverdure This book has already been reviewed and rated for Books & Benches and received our Reader's Choice Seal of Excellence. Read the other review and learn more about the book. Format Read: E-Book | Source: Provided by the author or publisher BOOK SYNOPSIS & INFO Widow Lara MacLaren hungers for the hunky architect she hires to restore her derelict Scottish manor, but is she ready for a relationship...and is Ian ready for her twins? Ian Paterson is eager to awaken Lara's passionate side. Yet, if he reveals his ancestral claim to her estate, he risks losing her and his job. His clan’s history, lost over the years, may be hidden in the walls—along with a ghost waiting for the laird's return. When they uncover a room full of Jacobite treasure, proof of his ancestry, Ian realizes he’s out of time. If the ghost is real, it could expose his secret and destroy his romance with Lara. Ian must convince her she and her twins are the future he truly wants. Publisher: The Wild Rose Press, Inc Publication Date: October 19, 2016 #AReadersOpinion #ContemporaryRomance

Ballads of the Roses Book 5 A World de Wolfe Pack Novella A READER'S OPINION Màiri Norris brings to life the medieval world. This is the first book I've read by Màiri and I enjoyed her descriptive and lyrical way of writing. Elrik of Breda and Yrsa of Ottham are lost hearts and souls who come together by fate and circumstance. I confess the manner of speaking and some of the narrative were difficult to follow at first but the author pulled me in with the story and I soon found a nice rhythm. Elrik is an interesting hero worthy of the title but I did not think it at first. He surprised in me a good way. Yrsa is strong and willing to believe in the power of her visions. Elrik and Yrsa are worthy partners in life and love. I appreciated the author's ability to convey deep romance and affection without graphic scenes, especially in a novella. An unexpected act of courage and love, friendship, and tender romance all came together in Brábanter's Rose . Reviewer's Rating : 4 Stars | Content Rating : 3 Hearts | Reviewed by : Kaylie Morgan BOOK SYNOPSIS A mercenary with a bloodstained soul. Elrik of Breda has had enough of death and seeks a place to build a home and live in peace. An innocent with a secret. Yrsa of Ottham has lived too long with loss and rejection. She yearns for a place where she belongs. Sometimes, the intervention of Fate creates magic. Together, they embark on a quest to fulfill the longings of their hearts… but the cost may be higher than they could ever dream. Print Length: 158 pages Publisher: Kindle Worlds Publication Date: September 4, 2016 #AReadersOpinion #MedievalRomance

Ian must convince Lara she and her twins are the future he truly wants. A READER'S OPINION A contemporary romantic tale with a touch of history . . . and ghosts. Waiting for the Laird by Willa Blair is a delightful romance and unexpected adventure set in Scotland. Lara MacLaren and Ian Paterson are a well-matched pair, and the author does a nice job building up their romance while they figure out how to deal with life's unpredictable surprises. Ms. Blair has a nice and easy writing style that pulls you into the story and keeps you turning the pages. After getting to know Ian, I wanted to hop on an airplane and head over to Scotland so I could find a laird of my own. Cairn Dubh Manor is a character all on its own, and I admit I found the old manor as much of a draw in capturing my interest as the story did. Secrets and mystery abound within the walls of Cairn Dubh, and they make the story all the more satisfying. There's not a whole lot more I can say without revealing too many surprises the reader should discover on their own. Developed characters and some interesting and unexpected twists make Waiting for the Laird an enjoyable read. Reviewer's Rating: 4 1/2 Stars | Content Rating: 4 Hearts | Reviewed by: Kaylie Morgan Format Read: E-Book | Source: Provided by the author or publisher BOOK SYNOPSIS & INFO Widow Lara MacLaren hungers for the hunky architect she hires to restore her derelict Scottish manor, but is she ready for a relationship...and is Ian ready for her twins? Ian Paterson is eager to awaken Lara's passionate side. Yet, if he reveals his ancestral claim to her estate, he risks losing her and his job. His clan’s history, lost over the years, may be hidden in the walls—along with a ghost waiting for the laird's return. When they uncover a room full of Jacobite treasure, proof of his ancestry, Ian realizes he’s out of time. If the ghost is real, it could expose his secret and destroy his romance with Lara. Ian must convince her she and her twins are the future he truly wants. Publisher: The Wild Rose Press, Inc Publication Date: October 19, 2016 #AReadersOpinion #ContemporaryRomance

We've had some fantastic books reviewed since August and because we're all about sharing and highlighting great books, we'll do so on occasion with "10 Books" lists. All books listed below have received either 4, 4 1/2, or 5-star rating from one of our reviewers. Happy Reading! Summit Lake by Charlie Donlea Read the Review A Highlander's Christmas Kiss by Paula Quinn Read the Review Wicked Rivals by Lauren Smith Read the Review Scandalous Redemption by Amanda Mariel Read the Review Between Love & Lies by Jacqui Nelson Read the Review Paradox Forged in Blood by Mary Frances Fisher Read the Review A Splendid Boy by Melanie Martin Read the Review Unhinged by JB Schroeder Read the Review The Color of Promise by Julianne MacLean Read the Review The Enchanted by Genevra Thorne Read the Review #10BooksList

" Another captivating story for The MacGregors: Highland Heirs! Fans of Scottish adventures are in for a real treat! " — Books & Benches It brings me great pleasure to welcome Paula Quinn, the NYT bestselling author of numerous Highlander and historical romance novels. I first discovered Paula's books when I one of the Books & Benches reviewers recommended A Highlander's Christmas Kiss . I was so delighted with how much I enjoyed the story, that I plan to soak up her other books. “Poignant, sensual, adventurous, and with a keen attention to rich detail and compelling characters, Paula Quinn appears to have mastered the art of Highland romance. ” —MK McClintock, award-winning author of Alaina Claiborne Q&A WITH PAULA QUINN On her love of Clan MacGregor and Writing "Scottish romance at its very best! Deliciously romantic and sensual, Paula Quinn captures the heart of the Highlands in a tender, passionate romance that you won't be able to put down." —Monica McCarty, New York Times bestselling author on Seduced by a Highlander Without further ado . . . MK : Your first book, Lord of Desire , was published in 2005. A couple of years later, you introduced Highlanders into your writing with Laird of the Mist, with many more to follow. What sparked your interest in Highland romance? What do you enjoy most about the genre? PAULA : I love anything historical and romantic…and knights. Oh, I love stories about knights. It was no shocker that my first books would be about them. But Scotland has always pulled at my heartstrings. You know those old songs about “going home to the Highlands”? I cry every time I hear them. But my passion for Scotland is almost too strong and though I had wanted to write about it, it was too overwhelming. How do you capture the hearts of people whose swords are stained by honor’s blood? How would I ever write about the mist-covered mountains and wind-swept heather moors? And who would be my hero? The whole MacGregor storyline began with a series of events. It’s still a little surreal when I think of it. I had just turned in my manuscript for Lord of Seduction when my computer became possessed. Every time I searched for something…anything, this pop -up would appear that said “Come home to Skye.” I’d click it off and promise myself someday. I don’t usually read the news but one morning I sat down and opened the paper. There was a full spread on Camasunary in Skye. The picture was of the most incredible place I’d ever seen. That picture is now framed on my wall near my desk. I figured I’d do a little research on clans and maybe…maybe try my hand at writing a Scottish romance. After a week or so, I still hadn’t decided which clan I wanted to write about. They all have such compelling histories. I remember the day when I knew it would be the MacGregors. I was sick and had taken a nap, only to be awakened by a hauntingly beautiful voice. The movie Moulin Rouge was on the TV and Ewen McGregor was singing Come What May. I tell you, I bolted up and said MacGregor! MacGregor? At the time, there wasn’t too much about them on the internet. Made some soup. Went back to bed. A few hours later, I was awakened again by a man’s deep, melodic voice saying, “I’m Rob Roy MacGregor!” Liam Neeson. Need I say more? More research. Deep research. We’re talking about months, even a year of learning about this amazing outlawed clan. (The research took so long because every thing I found left me crying over my keyboard.) Their story was the one I’d heard whenever I listened to bagpipes, soul-stirring, sorrow-filled, and needing to be told. Laird of the Mist is their story, told by clan chief Callum MacGregor, my ultimate hero. And the rest, as they say, is history. MK : In your latest book, Temperance and Cailean in A Highlander’s Christmas Kiss are delightful, and I enjoyed their story immensely. How did their story come about? What inspires your characters? PAULA : All the characters in every book after Laird were being “born” as I wrote the previous series. So, Rob, Tristan, Mairi, and Colin MacGregor from the Children of the Mist series came to life for me while writing Laird of the Mist and A Highlander Never Surrenders . Likewise, those character’s children came to me for my Highland Heirs series. These people exist in my head. I see their lives, their children, what kinds of parents they are, etc. It’s a family. A big one. And they love dogs. Cailean showed me who he was in The Taming of Malcolm Grant . (His brother’s story.) Losing his beloved dog, Sage was the catalyst for him changing into someone he’d never wanted to become. He’s a warrior, but a sensitive one. He writes, paints, cooks—but everything kind of just shut down for him after the woman he was falling in love with (in Malcolm Grant) died in his arms. It was just too much and he had to harden his heart in order to survive. I knew Cailean needed to be saved. And he needed a compassion, strong heroine to bring him back into the light. Even if she had to drag him. Honor inspires my characters. They always strive to be the best they can be. I’d kill them off if they didn’t. :) MK : As we can see from the family tree on your website, the MacGregor and Grant clans are interwoven over the course of several books. Was the intentional from the beginning, or did it just happen? What books can readers find members from both families? PAULA : Yes, once I wrote Laird of the Mist , and met Graham Grant, dearest friend to Callum MacGregor, I knew I would combine their families. Historically, the Grants were one of the few clans that stood by the MacGregors during the proscription, even at the risk of death. Both clans appear in the entire series. Some books, like Ravished By A Highlander , The Seduction of Miss Amelia Bell , The Wicked Ways of Alexander Kidd , and A Highlander’s Christmas Kiss , feature members of both clans more than the others. Tamed By A Highlander actually features a Grant hero and a MacGregor heroine. MK : From seeing the first book in print to the glowing reviews we all hope for, but worry we won’t get, authors experience a multitude of highs and lows throughout their careers. Up to this point, what has been one of your greatest joys or experiences as a writer? PAULA : Definitely the love shared by my readers. There’s nothing better. Another high happened with the current clan chief of the MacGregor’s wife wrote to me to tell me how much she loved Ravished by Highlander . She thanked me for getting the clan’s proscription out there. That was big for me because not many people know what the MacGregors endured and I wanted the world to know. MK : You also write paranormal romance as Generva Thorne. Can you tell us how that alter-ego came about? What interested you in the paranormal genre? PAULA : Oh, paranormal/fantasy has always been my first love. I grew up on Marion Zimmer Bradley, Raymond Feist, and my all time favorite author, Guy Gavriel Kay. (Seriously, read him. You won’t be sorry) My Faerie Tale series began after reading a poem about a man who had been enchanted by a faerie and could no longer see the beauty around him. It made me wonder what that would be like, to live in a drab, colorless world because of magic, and how could the spell be broken. I wrote The Enchanted and put love to the test. It’s really one of my favorite stories. Then again, The Beloved, book two in the series…well, I don’t want to gush, but I LOVED writing about a man fashioned of magic and timeless, irresistible beauty falling in love with a scarred woman. Ash and Eden have so much to overcome. I hope that readers come away with a sense of beauty being in the eye of the beholder. MK : What can readers expect from you next? PAULA : I’m currently working on book 6 in the Highland Heirs series. We don’t have a title just yet, but it features Patrick MacGregor, Cailean’s cousin. Patrick is a rogue who would rather wipe the dust of his kin’s ideals from his boots, until, of course, he meets Charlotte (Charlie) Cunningham, a woman who brings those ideals to life and sets his world spinning and him on his hot, Highlander arse. MK: I'm looking forward to reading that one, Paula! Thank you so much for joining us at Books & Benches. A HIGHLANDER'S CHRISTMAS KISS "Paula Quinn's special and unique style of writing paired with her perceptivity is a potent combination that demonstrates why she is an author whose books take residence on favorite's bookshelves everywhere." — Jenerated Book Reviews BUY AT AMAZON A STRANGER'S SMILE Christmas may be coming to Linavar, but Temperance Menzie is far from joyful. Grief-stricken over the death of her father at the hands of the Black Riders, she almost didn't see the wounded stranger in the woods. And now she's determined to give this braw, brooding Highlander the help she couldn't give her father. But there's a secret lurking in the depths of his blue-gray eyes. And Temperance won't rest until she uncovers it . . . A LOVER'S KISS A killer for hire. It's the last thing Cailean Grant ever thought he'd become, but being part of the Black Riders was his only way to survive. Now, his guilt grows day by day, along with his desire for the beautiful, brave lass nursing him back to health. As Christmas, the season of miracles, draws near and the truth of his identity threatens to come out, Cailean must risk the only thing he has left to lose-his heart. ​ Series: Highland Heirs Publish Date: September 27, 2016 THE AUTHOR Paula Quinn is a New York Times bestselling author and a sappy romantic moved by music, beautiful words, and the sight of a really nice pen. She lives in New York with her three beautiful children, six over-protective chihuahuas, and three adorable parrots. She loves to read romance and science fiction and has been writing since she was eleven. She's a faithful believer in God and thanks Him daily for all the blessings in her life. She loves all things medieval, but it is her love for Scotland that pulls at her heartstrings. To date, four of her books have garnered Starred reviews from Publishers Weekly. She has been nominated as Historical Storyteller of the Year by RT Book Reviews, and all the books in her MacGregor and Children of the Mist series have received Top Picks from RT Book Reviews. Her work has also been honored as Amazons Best of the Year in Romance, and in 2008 she won the Gayle Wilson Award of Excellence for Historical Romance. Visit her website and on Facebook . #AuthorInterview #HistoricalRomance #HighlandRomance

THE BOOK The League of Rogues, Book Four A READER'S OPINION Lauren Smith has done it again! A real page turner! Lauren Smith's series, The League of Rogues , is so much fun to read! I just love her books and her style of writing. Her 4th story, Wicked Rivals , is a must to read if you love historical romances filled with passion and intrigue! It's a story of betrayal, forgiveness and trust. Previously, I really enjoyed Godric, Lucien and Cedric in their own stories, and this time the author really pulled me into Ashton and Rosalind's story. It was fun and refreshing to discover a heroine who was a business woman in charge of an empire for that period of time. Rosalind is an intelligent young widow, and she really knows what she wants in life. However, when it concerns Ashton she looses all her willpower. Ashton, a member of the infamous League of Rogues, is her rival in business and will do anything to gain power over her. And, Rosalind has no place for a second marriage, and doesn't trust men, especially this devilish lord who has a big ego. Ashton, too, doesn't want to be leg-shackled. However, his mother Regina really wants to match her son to a woman like Rosalind. So, Ashton proposes a deal to Rosalind, a proposition that she cannot refuse. But, while being together and playing seduction games, sparks will flare and ignite a sizzling passion! They are perfect for each other if they ever stop competing against each other. Beautiful hot chemistry between Ashton and Rosalind! In Wicked Rivals we meet again characters from her previous books and the women who caught their hearts! The League of Rogues are six famous men with resources like money and power who are not afraid of scandal! They are so much fun to follow! I devoured this book! This series is truly addictive . . . well for me it is! Reviewer's Rating : 5 Stars | Content Rating : 5 Hearts | Reviewed by : Nicole Laverdure BUY AT AMAZON | VIEW OUR RATING SYSTEM BOOK SYNOPSIS A LORD WITH LEGENDARY CONTROL… Merciless and powerful, Ashton Lennox is a wealthy man because he puts business before everything else, especially love. As a member of the infamous League of Rogues, he’s no stranger to scandal. His bedroom conquests are as legendary as his fortune. As he searches for a way to bring down an old enemy bent on destroying the lives of his friends, the last thing he needs is a Scottish widow getting in his way. A FIERY WOMAN WHO WON’T BACK DOWN… The daughter of a Scottish lord with a dark and treacherous past, Rosalind Melbourne has spent years distancing from her past. After escaping her tyrannical father and marrying an aging English lord, she has become a powerful widow with a business empire at her command. Her business dealings are everything to her, leaving her no time for love. Especially not with her business rival Ashton, a man with a scandalous reputation as striking as his blue eyes. A GAME OF WITS TURNS TO A GAME OF SEDUCTION… Ashton is fascinated by the strong-willed, intelligent and sensual lady who, up until now, had outsmarted him at every turn. Rosalind wishes she could deny she is falling for the brooding, handsome baron. How can she possibly trust him when doing so could cost her what she values most—her freedom? When Ashton discovers Rosalind might hold the key to saving the League of Rogues, he knows he will do anything to woo his wicked lass. As their pasts return to haunt them and dark forces rise to keep them from exposing a deadly spymaster, their game of love turns to a game of survival… Warning: This book includes a brooding baron who’s wild in bed, a crafty Scottish lass who never knows when to quit, a wicked game of strip chess, and a merry band of rogues whose first instinct is to run they hear wedding bells ring. Series: The League of Rogues (Book 4) Genre: Historical Romance Print Length: 369 pages Publication Date: October 17, 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 #5Stars

Congratulations to Paula Quinn, author of A Highlander's Christmas Kiss , winner of the September 2016 Readers' Choice Cover Contest. Head on over to check out the cover finalists for October . Voting opens 10.01.16! #CoverContestWinner #HighlandRomance #HistoricalRomance