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THE BOOK Ladies and Scoundrels, Book Three A READER'S OPINION Amanda Mariel knows how to deliver a heartwarming and sensual love story! Lady Claudia Ackford has not been lucky in love! She's been tricked into marriage and denied the man she's loved. Lord Luvington has been physically and emotionally abused, and Lady Claudia hasn't lived a normal life since she married the man she calls husband. FREE! She's finally free after years shackled to the devil! She's celebrating by getting intoxicated. If only she can get over the scandal that follows her since that fateful day she barrelled into Lord and Lady Luvington's townhouse declaring her love for him! Widowed, she chooses to live a life of her own choosing and that means only one thing She.Will.Never.Marry! She doesn't need a husband . . . though perhaps a lover. Lord Henry Shillinton is not quite the rogue, slightly clumsy, the quiet type with smouldering eyes that tempt you to sin. The Luvingtons are his friends and after Lady Luvington helped him get over a rejected suit, he can't betray her. Claudia knew she shouldn't have drank that much until she realized the wall she stumbled upon is a man. Ever the gentleman, Henry can't leave a damsel in distress he accompanies her in the garden. The connection is instantaneous after the scorching kiss Claudia bestows upon his lips! Henry realizes that the sensuous lips and kiss belong to the notorious, scandalous Lady Claudia Akford! Their connection is strong enough between them to warrant her his friendship, but it can never be more. The friendship blossoms into something more, but can Claudia let go of her past? He can't seem to let her go for she's gotten under his skin. He knows she's been hurt and he's willing to wait for her forever, but he can't accept her offer to be his mistress. Henry has a secret that could destroy everything, but is he willing to reveal it to Claudia? Or will the scandal that follows her be the ending of everything that could be theirs? Follow Henry and Claudia as they navigate their emotional hurts, for in the end of their struggles is the prize! Reviewer's Rating : 4 1/2 Stars | Content Rating : 3 Hearts | Reviewed by : Maria Rose Dariotis BUY AT AMAZON | VIE W OUR RATING SYSTEM BOOK SYNOPSIS She never wanted him… Ruined by scandal, Claudia Akford survived years of marriage to a cruel brute. Widowed, she is determined to regain her standing in society, but Lord Shillington personifies temptation. Kind and gentle, yet masculine and sinfully handsome, he would make the perfect lover, but he wants more than she is willing to give. He needed her… While Henry Shillington knows a little of the beautiful but notorious Lady Claudia Akford, he is struck by her kindhearted, accomplished, and witty demeanor. The more time he spends in her company, the more he dreams of a future with her. But the lady resists his honorable overtures, and a mistress will never do for him. Can two wary people overcome past hurts, an old scandal, and social strictures to embrace true love? Print Length: 149 pages Publication Date: May 31, 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 #412Stars

THE BOOK Can Philip trust in his newfound faith to lead the way? A READER'S OPINION Heartwarming western novella! A Mountain Man's Redemption is the second book that I read by author Christi Corbett! Set during the 1880’s period in Montana Territory, this short story is well paced to keep your interest, well written, and filled with lots of emotion! In this book you will follow Philip and Hannah's journey into Montana Territory. Philip is a man who prefers his solitude by living in the wilderness and fur trapping. Several years have passed now, and he is ready to accept his destiny. But when he discovers a young woman with her infant son who was battered by her husband, he will offer his help. Is there hope for this young mother? Along their journey to safety, she will start to trust him and share her secret, but Philip has his secrets, too. What will happen next? This story is about trust, hope, and faith, which all make it a very touching story! Christi Corbett is a talented storyteller and a very descriptive writer. Her stories are heartwarming and filled with strong emotions! If you don't mind the subject of battered women, then I recommend this story to you! Reviewer's Rating : 4 Stars | Content Rating : 0 Hearts | Reviewed by : Nicole Laverdure BUY AT AMAZON | VIEW OUR RATING SYSTEM BOOK SYNOPSIS Eighteen years ago, Philip Grant—overcome with regret for what he couldn’t foresee and memories of what he couldn’t prevent—abandoned all to live the solitary life of a fur trapper. Years spent roaming ridgelines and riverbanks in Montana Territory left his body weary and his confidence weak, so he decides to turn in his last bundle of furs and await the inevitable in a cabin. Alone. Then a body-shaped lump wrapped in a quilt changes everything. Philip discovers a battered woman and her infant son, on the run from a ruthless abuser with a penchant for whiskey. Seventy miles of snow-covered mountain peaks and windswept flatlands stand between them and safety—the woman’s aunt’s house. Can Philip trust in his newfound faith to lead the way? *Content Warning: Domestic Violence/Abuse* Print Length: 129 pages Publication Date: October 16, 2015 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 #HistoricalWesternRomance #ChristmasBook

THE BOOK The Highland Moon Series, Book 4 A READER'S OPINION Lady Kila Murray's life is in danger . . . a woman betrothed with one man in love with another! Accepting the betrothal to Laird Colin Monro that her father had arranged before his death, she accepts wanting to honour his last wish. Left with her uncle and his wife, her evil step mother, Lady Verona, and her cruel brother, they are the only people to call family. She sets forth on the journey to her new husband and home—Whitestag Castle. Fate has other plans for Kila . . . a brawny handsome highlander named Duncan MacDonald! One kiss and his fate was sealed. Duncan knew he shouldn't have kissed the voluptuous beauty! He has been given the task to escort the beautiful Lady Kila to her betrothed. How can he hand her over to another man when his heart beats for her! Coveting another man's soon-to-be wife is sinful, but just like their kiss, it feels so right. The plot thickens when one attempt after another is made on her life and not one suspect is in sight! With her life in peril bringing them closer, keeping her from harm's way becomes his mission, and he vows to keep her safe even at the risk to his life! Can Duncan find the villain attempting to kill Kila before they succeed? Can they convince Colin to void the marriage contract without an all out clan war? Wonderful story with enough twists to keep the pages turning! Reviewer's Rating : 4 Stars | Content Rating : 4 Hearts | Reviewed by : Maria Rose BUY AT AMAZON | VIEW OUR RATING SYSTEM BOOK SYNOPSIS Lady Kila Murray learns her father, before his untimely death, betrothed her to Laird Colin Monro, a man she had previously met and thought to be most attractive. She agrees to the marriage and is soon on her way to Whitestag Castle to wed. While staying at an inn, she is kept from being trampled to death by a handsome Highlander, Duncan MacDonell. She is quite taken with her rescuer, and cannot push him from her thoughts. Unbeknownst to Kila, Lady Verona Murray, her devious young stepmother, poisoned Kila's father, and is now bent on doing away with Kila anyway she can—as she has fallen in love with Laird Monro herself—and the only way to have him is to get rid of her stepdaughter, leaving the path to the altar open for herself. While on his way to see the Earl of Riverglen, Duncan MacDonell ends up rescuing the beautiful and enticing Lady Kila Murray, for whom he has an undeniable attraction. Finding himself alone with the desirable lass, he ends up kissing her—which was the wrong thing to do—for now he can't get her out of his mind. Thinking he'll most likely never see Kila again, he is surprised when the earl asks him to escort her to Whitestag Castle and hand her over to her betrothed. Duncan soon finds himself in love with Kila, and realizes he'd rather die than see her married to Monro. Print Length: 219 pages Publication Date: August 31, 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 #HistoricalRomance

THE BOOK Second Chance Romance A READER'S OPINION If you are a horse lover and like romance, then Bev Pettersen's book, Millionaire's Shot , will be perfect for you! This author never disappoints me! Most of her stories include horses and the people who love them. This time we are introduced to the sport of polo. A world where the heroine, Cassie, used to excel, and where her ex boyfriend, Alex and his family own control this industry. When Cassie's grandfather suffers a heart attack, she returns to his family's small horse farm to help him, but this means seeing again—the man she once loved very much. Now, she doesn't want to get her heart broken again. However, meeting Alex again and his daughter Grace, will bring back lots of emotions! Their worlds collide and send sparks again! But Alex is not hers! Will destiny intervene and give them a second chance? Meeting Grace will create a new friendship between the girls. Grace is so sweet and charming. I loved her characters, and their story is filled with emotions! I found this sweet story so refreshing and well written! Reviewer's Rating : 4 1/2 Stars | Content Rating : 1 Heart | Reviewed by : Nicole Laverdure BUY AT AMAZON | VIEW OUR RATING SYSTEM BOOK SYNOPSIS She vowed never to return. He swore he’d never ask her. Cassie Edwards fled her family’s small horse farm when the man she loved married another woman. But now her ailing grandfather needs her help and she’s not going to stay away another minute. It doesn’t matter that the all-powerful Sutherland family controls the local polo industry where she once worked, or that they can make life very difficult for an old girlfriend. Besides, after all this time, Alex Sutherland is just a friend. Maybe. Wealthy Alex Sutherland has given up all his passions. Except for his daughter. And if sacrificing everything that ever made him happy will keep her safe, it’s a price he’s always been willing to pay. But Cassie still holds his heart, and when her return sparks a vengeful ex-wife’s wrath, will their second chance at love turn lethal? Print Length: 239 pages Publisher: Westerhall Publication Date: September 16, 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 #ContemporaryRomance #412Stars

Please welcome author Christi Corbett who joins us as part of our Montana Author Month. Montana fiction written by authors who have lived in or spent a significant amount of time in the state. Christi answers the question . . . What do you love most about the time you’ve spent in Montana? My husband and I and our twins lived in Great Falls, Montana. It's an amazing city. There were so many things to do with our twins—we especially loved the Charles Russell museum, specifically seeing his actual painting studio—as well as even more areas to explore once we left the city limits. Montana is a huge state filled with things to do and see, and during our time there we managed to show our twins a lot! Our favorite experience was visiting the First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park in Ulm and then driving by the field filled with prairie dogs as far as the eye could see. We made some great family memories at that park! I've included a photo from one of our visits to the buffalo jump. I took this picture as I followed my husband (on the right), his brother, and our twins as we all walked along the jump's ridgeline. Our twins are between them, enjoying the sights and sounds of the day. I enjoyed living in Great Falls so much that I set my third book, A Mountain Man's Redemption , in and around the city. The above image is from the author of her family at First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park. Visit the author at https://christicorbett.wordpress.com . A MOUNTAIN MAN'S REDEMPTION by Award-Winning Author Christi Corbett Eighteen years ago, Philip Grant—overcome with regret for what he couldn’t foresee and memories of what he couldn’t prevent—abandoned all to live the solitary life of a fur trapper. Years spent roaming ridgelines and riverbanks in Montana Territory left his body weary and his confidence weak, so he decides to turn in his last bundle of furs and await the inevitable in a cabin. Alone. Then a body-shaped lump wrapped in a quilt changes everything. Philip discovers a battered woman and her infant son, on the run from a ruthless abuser with a penchant for whiskey. Seventy miles of snow-covered mountain peaks and windswept flatlands stand between them and safety—the woman’s aunt’s house. Can Philip trust in his newfound faith to lead the way? Fin A Mountain Man's Redemption on Amazon . #GuestAuthor #MontanaAuthor

THE BOOK Scandalous Regency Widows, Book 2 A READER'S OPINION Sizzling Regency romance! Another page turner with Amy Rose Bennett's new novel, The Ice Duchess ! I love historical romance set in the Regency era! In this novel, the love scenes are written with tenderness and passion! Beautiful chemistry between Georgiana and Rafe. This author's words flew off the pages—I could not put it down! As soon as I started to read The Ice Duchess , I was pulled into the story and it kept me wanting more. The Ice Duchess tells the story of Georgiana, a young widow, who entered a marriage of convenience to please her brother because her late husband was her brother's lover. Now, she doesn't want to take a chance at marriage. However, a charming rake, Rafe, will disrupt her life. Her twin brother and close friends concoct a plan to reunite Georgia and Rafe, who were perfect for each other, but didn't know it! Rafe is a devilish rake, and also an ex-spy for the Crown, who only wants to settle down. But, having been a spy, his past activities will put Georgia in danger. Having both suffered recent losses, will they take a chance and move on with their lives? Will Rafe be able to protect Georgia when a mad baron attacks her? What will happen next? In The Ice Duchess , Ms. Bennett has created a beautiful love story set during the Regency era. Lovers of romance will love it! I recommend this second story part of her Scandalous Regency Widows. Reviewer's Rating : 4 1/2 Stars | Content Rating : 5 Hearts | Reviewed by : Nicole Laverdure BUY AT AMAZON | VIEW OUR RATING SYSTEM BOOK SYNOPSIS Georgiana Dudley, the ‘Ice Duchess’, has just emerged from mourning after a nine-year marriage of convenience to the Duke of Darby, her twin brother’s lover. Deeply hurt by a scoundrel a decade ago, Georgie swore she would never turn her head for any man, let alone another rakehell. But then she encounters the wickedly handsome and all too charming Rafe Landsbury, the Earl of Markham and against her better judgment, her interest is reluctantly aroused. An affair may be impossible to resist but dare she trust Lord Markham with her most intimate secrets... and her heart? Society believes Rafe to be a diplomat but for many years he has been working on the Continent as a spy for the Crown. Leaving the shadowy world of espionage behind, he returns to London with the intention of finding a wife. When he is paired with the frosty yet fascinating Duchess of Darby at the piquet table during a ton ball, he is intrigued. Do-or-die man that he is, he’s certainly not going to let her cool demeanor dissuade him from pursuing her. When Rafe’s dark past returns to endanger Georgie, he is determined to protect her at all costs, even if that means hiding who he once was. With the stakes so high, both Georgie and Rafe must decide if love is a risk worth taking... Author’s Note to Readers: The Ice Duchess is Book 2 in the loosely linked Scandalous Regency Widows series. It can be easily read as a stand-alone title. Print Length: 323 pages Publication Date: September 30, 2016 Format Read : E-Book | Source: Provided by the author or publisher. VIEW FTC DISCLAIMER REGARDING BOOK REVIEWS #AReadersOpinion #RegencyRomance #HistoricalRomance #412Stars

" The Farmette Cookbook and Imen McDonnell get 5 fabulous stars!" — Books & Benches It brings me great pleasure to welcome Imen McDonnell, the creative talent behind the blog, Farmette.ie and The Farmette Cookbook . I first discovered Imen's blog a year after she started to share her stories and adventures about moving from the USA to settle in with her Irish farmer far from home. Her stories are poignant, humorous, and beautifully written, not to mention the stunning visual glimpses she offers of her farm and Ireland. “Imen has beautifully captured the rich heritage of Irish farmhouse cooking and cast a 21st century spell on it!” —Catherine Fulvio, author and award-winning proprietor of Ballyknocken House & Cookery School 5 QUESTIONS FOR IMEN MCDONNELL From her Irish farm to your hearts and homes. "If you have not yet visited Ireland and tasted its authentic foods, you'll want to after reading Imen's new cookbook. Living on an Irish farm has never looked this attractive. What a charming and delicious book!" —Béatrice Peltre, author of La Tartine Gourmande Without further ado . . . MK: I’ve been a long-time fan of your blog, back when it was I Married An Irish Farmer, into what it’s become—Farmette. I’ve enjoyed reading about your adventures on the farm. Can you tell us what inspired you to start blogging and share your stories? IMEN: Ironically, my blog was initially born out of a place of sorrow and survival and searching…we had just moved into our home on the farm when my father suddenly became very ill in the USA so I essentially dropped everything and headed home to care for him. We returned to Ireland 4 months later, mourning his shocking death. I suddenly I felt very alone in the Irish countryside, tending to a baby while my husband spent 14 hours days on the farm trying to catch up after being away for so long. I can still remember my first blog post, I was desperately reaching out to connect with family, friends, anyone and everyone who would listen! Soon after, I made it a personal strategy to always find and share the best of times on the farm, to really find the humour and beauty in my new life. I needed to do that for myself. To remind myself of all the good things about my new life. If I didn’t, I knew I wouldn’t make it in Ireland no matter how much I wanted to be here with Richard. MK: I believe I speak for more than myself when I say you've inspired many with how you found a way to make such a major (and wonderful) shift. I’m not alone in envisioning what it would be like to live on a farm in the Irish countryside. While it sounds idyllic and magical, life on a busy farm can’t always be easy. Will you share with us one of the challenges you’ve faced and overcome? What about one of the greatest joys? IMEN: Firstly, I must be said that I cannot imagine living full time anywhere else at this point. The raw beauty and organic quality of life in the Irish countryside is unparalleled. The quiet. The connection to nature. These things are now imperative to have in my life. The city bustle and convenience are not as important. This has evolved over the years; it used to be the opposite. I couldn’t sleep as it was too quiet and dark at night. Everything took too long. It looks messy. It can be smelly. The biggest challenge has been trying to reinvent myself here and adjust to country life. To redefine “making a living.” I did not realize how much my career in the USA defined me. My background was in broadcast production. I presumed I would be able to live on the farm and have steady freelance production work in Ireland. I was encouraged by the fact that I landed a brilliant position on a popular tv series here almost immediately. But, after the production ended there was no more work locally. I was a new mom. Then my father passed away. I felt stripped of my identity in so many ways. For the next couple if years, I tried lots of new fangled stay-at-home mom business ideas (babywear design, a young mums travel/food app, using our home as a film location, etc etc) all while writing my blog about all the funny changes I was experiencing. When Geoffrey was old enough, we started going to the farm to feed calves together. On the first day, there was a sick calf and we both felt so delighted that we got her to take milk. When we came back the next day, she hadn’t made it overnight. I was devastated. I brought Geoffrey into the farm kitchen with Gran and went back out to the corner of the shed and stood there literally hunched over heaving crying. I felt like I lost a baby myself. I felt responsible for not being able to save her. I had never considered the fact that animals can die on a farm. Later that day, I watched two calves being born in the field. I weeped tears of joy over how beautiful it was to witness this act of birthing and the incredible love and pride of the mother with her offspring afterward. A farm can be a very emotional place. The cycle of life is profound and always looming. Above all, I think my greatest joy has come by way of growing my extensive kitchen garden and learning my way around the kitchen with Geoffrey by my side. Sowing seeds and seeing them grow is so fulfilling, and something I never imagined I would be doing or enjoying so much. Cooking and baking and sharing food with family and friends is what really makes me happy. I love nothing more than a convivial farm feast using as many ingredients as possible that have been grown in our back garden and the fields of the farm. It must be the most satisfying feeling ever. ( As an aside, I am always inspired by this Thoreau quote which feels so relatable to me: “I went to the woods because I wished to live deliberately, to front only the essential facts of life, and see if I could not learn what it had to teach, and not, when I came to die, discover that I had not lived. I did not wish to live what was not life, living is so dear.” ) MK: Okay, you just had my eyes tearing up there! What lovely memories you've created from what began as challenges. Now, I have to ask more about the food! You often talked about food and cooking on the farm, but at some point there was a shift in your blog, with a more culinary focus. Were you always a foodie, or did that come from living on the farm? IMEN: I always very particular about food, but in a consumer type of way. I did love to entertain and cook sprawling fancy cookbook/food mag-style spreads for friends and loved ones, but there was a rare opportunity for me to do that. I was very busy with work and a lot of travel. I would often find myself in a Michelin starred restaurant in my work travels which was always gratifying. When I was home, my fridge would be stocked with ingredients from the gourmet grocer and/or the local co-op. I bought local without putting much thought into what “local” meant, I simply associated local foods with quality. So, becoming a bonafide cook really came after I moved to the farm, when it was necessary (and ultimately happily and wholeheartedly embraced) by proxy. MK: The Farmette Cookbook is one of the most beautifully designed cookbooks I’ve seen in a long time, and you were the photographer! What was the process of both cooking and photographing like? IMEN: Thank you! I am really proud of the book and love how it looks. I feel so fortunate that Roost hired one of the best book designers in the business, Shubhani Sarkar. ( http://sarkardesignstudio.com ) She came to my book launch in Brooklyn and was so gracious and lovely! I am in awe of her work. Yes, I took all of the photos and my great friend, Sonia Mulford Chaverri, came to Ireland to work with me on the food styling so I had fantastic help! We shot and styled 5-6 recipes a day, sometimes more, but because many of them were shot on location on the farm, the process took a bit longer. It was intense, a total learning curve, but just incredible and an unforgettable life experience. MK: You also contribute to other publications in addition to the Farmette blog. Where else can readers learn more about you, your recipes, and your farm adventures? IMEN: I am a member of the Irish Food Writers’ Guild and have contributed to several magazines and newspapers including to Condé Nast Traveler (USA) and Town and Country Magazine (UK), but have mostly been busy doing interviews since the book release this spring! I am currently in talks to resume an Irish newspaper column that I used to pen, and looking at doing a series of short films from the farm and my kitchen. Update on those soon! Thank you, Imen, for spending a little time with us and sharing a bit about your farm life and your lovely work on The Farmette Cookbook . For readers who would like learn more about and connect with Imen, visit Farmette.ie . or follow her on Facebook , Twitter , and Instagram . You can also read my review of this fabulous cookbook! Whether for a gift or yourself, this cookbook is a lovely addition to any kitchen library. Imen McDonnell and her handsome farmers. THE COOKBOOK The Farmette Cookbook: Recipes and Adventures from My Life on an Irish Farm “Imen takes traditional Irish cooking to the next level with her American curiosity and ingenuity. She weaves big city cravings, like potstickers, tacos, banh mi, harissa, pizza, and more, with traditional comfort food made from scratch. Imen’s brave leap of faith and love is a boon for the rest of us: we now have this charming book full of stories and recipes I can’t wait to make.” —Susan Spungen, founding food editor of Martha Stewart Living BUY AT AMAZON | AMAZON UK | ROOST BOOKS American city girl marries Irish dairy farmer; cooking, growing, foraging, fishing, preserving, and baking ensue: 150 delightful classic Irish recipes updated for the modern home cook. The Farmette Cookbook documents Imen McDonnell's extraordinary Irish country cooking journey, which began the moment she fell in love with an Irish farmer and moved across the Atlantic to County Limerick. This book's collection of 150 recipes and colorful stories chronicles nearly a decade-long adventure of learning to feed a family (and several hungry farmers) while adjusting to her new home (and nursing a bit of homesickness). Along the way she teaches us foundational kitchen skills and time-honored Irish traditions, sharing wisdom from her mother-in-law and other doyennes of Irish cooking. We learn the ritual of Sunday lunch, pudding, and tea. We go along with her on wild crafting walks--the country version of foraging for wild edibles. We visit her local fishmonger to see what we can create with his daily catch from the sea. Along the way we see how she's deviated from classic Irish recipes to add contemporary or American twists. The Farmette Cookbook is a compilation of tried-and-true recipes with an emphasis on local, fresh ingredients and traditional Irish kitchen skills, which for Imen have healed homesickness and forged new friendships. Hardcover: 384 pages Publisher: Roost Books Publication Date: March 8, 2016 THE AUTHOR Imen McDonnell is an American cook, writer, and farmer who contributes to Irish Country Magazine, Condé Nast Traveler and more. In a former life, she spent her days working in broadcast production while living in New York, Minneapolis and Los Angeles. She now resides with her husband, Richard, and their young son, Geoffrey, on a centuries-old farm in rural Ireland and shares illustrious stories of farm life & food on her popular blog, Farmette.ie . Imen and her modern Irish recipes have been featured in The New York Times, The Irish Times, The Sunday Times (UK) The Los Angeles Times, Food and Wine Magazine, Huffington Post Taste, Saveur Magazine and more. #AuthorInterview #Cookbook

THE BOOK A Faerie Tale Series Book 2 A READER'S OPINION Lord Ashton is the son of Prince Gabriel and the evil Princess Aneira. He possesses his mother's wicked allure and charm but his father's good heart. He is seduction incarnate, and a look or smile has the women dropping at his feet. When young, he enjoyed his allure, but one unfortunate night while enjoying festivities, his allure was so strong he was found with aunts and young cousins! This was so devastating for him that he self exiled himself from his father's and grandfather's home. On an evening out with his cousin he took him for his first experience at the new village brothel, and it changed his life forever. He sees a woman on the rooftop bent on ending her life, and she jumps . . . straight in his arms. As their eyes meet, he's taken aback at the connection. She saw him and his heart, and in those few moments, she saw the real Ash, the lonely Ash in need of love! Ash visits Eden every night in darkness lest she becomes one of the many fallen victims to his charm. Eden is beautiful but scarred down half her body. Her life was claimed many years ago by fire that took her family and left her a shell of a woman leaving her alone and defenseless. She had no choice but to become a prostitute to survive. No one saw the real Eden was beautiful and worthy of love. She was mocked and ridiculed by the brothel's men. Although they met every night, their connection grew stronger and love blossomed until the unthinkable happens and Eden finds out Ash is not disfigured or scarred but a devastatingly handsome man! Ash never lied to Eden. He was scarred and his scars were deep. He had his family's love but also their scorn . . . None saw the depth of the real Ash! Will Eden be able to get over the hurt of Ashton's betrayal of her trust? Can Ashton be rid of his glamour and win Eden's love? Wonderful story of beauty in the eye of the beholder! True love goes beyond the flesh—it's deeper and emotional! Reviewer's Rating: 4 1/2 Stars | Content Rating: 4 1/2 Hearts | Reviewed by: Maria Rose Dariotis BUY AT AMAZON | VIEW OUR RATING SYSTEM BOOK SYNOPSIS Lord Ashton of Aethyria is enticement, seduction, temptation–born with the power to strip even the most modest woman of her gown, her will, and her virtue. With the glamour of being born a half Daoine Sidhe faerie comes the sad fate that once a woman has gazed into Ash’s eyes, she forever loses the ability to see anything other than his ravishing beauty, and can certainly never glimpse into his soul. Ashton’s allure is so raw and enchanting, in fact, that he has exiled himself from even the human side of his family, lest his own aunts be tempted by him, and lives a life of solitude and fleeting passions. But he is part human as well, and it is his human blood that makes him long for a magic no faerie spell can equal. It is his deep desire for true love that leads him to keep his magnificent face hidden from the woman who captures his heart. Eden is certain her nightly visitor is as disfigured as she, since he keeps his visage shrouded in shadow when he comes to her room. Scarred by fire, she believes herself ugly until Ashton’s tender kisses and gentle touch begin to teach her that true beauty comes from within. It’s an important lesson, since Ash knows that soon he must reveal himself to her. He prays that she can look beyond his unearthly beauty and see the heart of a man. Print Length: 260 pages Publication Date: May 31, 2016 Format Read: E-Book | Source: Provided by the auor or publisher VIEW FTC DISCLAIMER ON BOOK REVIEWS #AReadersOpinion #FantasyRomance

Please welcome author Constance Bretes who joins us as part of our Montana Author Month. Montana fiction written by authors who have lived in or spent a significant amount of time in the state. Constance answers the question . . . What is my most memorable Montana moment? My husband and I recently moved to Montana last year after I retired from my day job. Prior to moving here, we spent three weeks every summer here visiting this beautiful state of Montana. One of our favorite places to visit when we came here is Tizer Gardens, located in Jefferson. It is like a mini oasis with a beautiful creek that flows throughout the area, and beautiful flowers in bloom all summer long dotting the creek. If you have never been to Tizer Gardens, I suggest you add this place to your ‘places to visit’ list. Several years ago, we were on a mission and came out to Montana to finalize a deal for some property that we brought. My husband and I decided to stop to visit. As we entered the garden, off to the right, we came upon the creek, with flowers all around it, and it had a little wooden bench, next to the creek. I decided to sit down on the wooden bench and just enjoy the scenery and meditate a bit. As I was attempting to sit down on the bench, my foot slipped straight down on the wood chips, and I went head first into the creek. My husband, in an attempt to keep me from falling into the creek, grabbed my shirt, and the force of gravity brought him into the creek on top of me. We checked and made sure that we didn’t have any broken bones or external injuries, then got up. By this time, we were both soaked. We surveyed the area and could see no easy way to get out of the creek and onto the embankment. So, I said I’d try to climb the embankment where we took the nosedive and see if I could get up and out of the water. I was having difficulty trying to find something to grab to pull myself up and the wood chips were not helping any. My husband decided to get behind me and give me a push. After I finally got on the embankment, I turned around and got up, and was covered with wood chips from head to toe. We left immediately and headed back to the motel, where I picked off the wood chips and took off my clothes and took a shower. We didn’t go back there after that, until the next year when we came out to visit. The picture of the creek is where we had our misfortune. The second picture is one of many sceneries you would see at Tizer Gardens. Visit the author at http://constancebretes.com . THE LAST DIG Bones, Body and a Love Rekindled Paleontologist Caroline Priest is shocked when she finds a dead body at her dig site. When she calls it in to the sheriff's department, her former boyfriend, Rand Callahan, comes out to investigate. The evidence quickly starts to point to Caroline being the killer, and Rand has no choice but to arrest her. It's clear to Caroline that she's been set up, but by who and for what reason? While Caroline is out on bail, Rand rekindles his relationship with her as they try to solve the mystery before it's too late. Find the book on Amazon and Barnes & Noble . BOOK OF LOVE A librarian, a mechanic, and a psychotic ex. What could go wrong? When her marriage came to a devastating end, Janice Meyers moved to Montana to try to escape her past and get a fresh start. She's sworn off men, but she didn't anticipate meeting Chris. After the death of his wife, Chris Jamisen focused all his time and energy on running his auto repair shop and raising his children. He's not looking for love, and when he first meets Janice, the town's new librarian, he never imagines they might embark on a relationship. Sure, he'll admit he finds the smart, sexy blonde attractive, but the frustrating woman expects miracles from him. Her vehicle is practically beyond repair, but she insists he has to keep it running. As Chris gets to know Janice, he begins to develop feelings for her, but he's reluctant to pursue a relationship. He's Native American, and he worries about the complications of a biracial relationship. He's experienced prejudice first hand, so he knows how difficult it can be. When Janice's ex-husband shows up seeking revenge, things could reach a horrible end. Will Chris save Janice in time? And will he and Janice be able to set aside their painful pasts and give their relationship a chance? Find the book on Amazon and Barnes & Noble . DELAYED JUSTICE Can two former lovers set aside their differences and work together to bring a criminal to justice? Five years ago, Sami Parker's life was changed forever when she was injured in a bombing incident which left another young woman dead—a woman who happened to be the fiancée of Sheriff Makeeta Robertson, Sami's former lover. Initially, Sami was a suspect in the crime, but the sheriff was forced to release her due to a lack of evidence. The town, convinced that she got away with murder, turned against her. At last an arrest has been made and the sheriff needs Sami's help to get a conviction, but can she trust him? Although wary and cautious, she wants to see this man brought to justice and wants to clear her own name once and for all. But the awakening feelings she has for Makeeta bring yet another problem. Then there's the secret she's kept for the last five years—one she may not be able to keep any longer, and one that may change the outcome of the trial. Find the book on Amazon and Barnes & Noble . #MontanaAuthor #GuestAuthor

Please join us in welcoming author Amanda Uhl to Books & Benches for a 5 Question Q&A. Amanda writes contemporary romantic suspense with a paranormal twist. Mind Waves is her first novel. "Author [Amanda] Uhl gives us a well-written story with an exciting, smoothly paced plot and twists...an enthralling read." — Goodreads Review 5 QUESTIONS FOR AMANDA UHL In 250 words or less, what can you tell us about your newest release, Mind Waves? Mind Waves was inspired by frequent trips to Edgewater Beach in Cleveland, Ohio, to gather beach glass. I spent hours by myself, head bent over the sand, interrupted only occasionally by the interest of strangers who wondered what I was doing and if I found anything. That got me thinking: What if someone watched me gather beach glass day after day, and they were reading my mind. And what if they fell in love with me, and I had no idea. What would happen next? You’ll have to read the book to find out. What story are you working on next, and what inspired it? I am working on a contemporary, humorous office romance, called Charmed by Charlie , inspired by reruns of Gilmore Girls and the characters' somewhat snarky dialogue. The book deals with dashing charmer and creative genius, Charlie Solanger, who shows up as the new guy in the office. Charlie soon has all the woman vying for his attention, but the one he wants, math whiz and star product manager Valerie Wilson, proves maddeningly elusive. Val’s sworn off charming men after catching her fiancé and the owner's son sleeping with her best friend. There's no way she'll let a flirt like Charlie steal her away from her safe and placid boyfriend, George. But when Charlie discovers a mysterious sales trend is draining the company funds, Val must join forces with him to solve the mystery. But can she be around Charlie for any length of time without falling victim to his charm? What is your favorite motivational phrase? I wear my favorite motivational phrase around my neck as a constant reminder to never, ever give up on my writing. It reads, “Creativity takes courage. Don’t give up.” If you could have been the original author of any book, what would it have been and why? I love Charlotte’s Web . It is so well-written and such a beautiful and classic story for young and old alike. I most admire how the climax of the story also provides the moral. The perfection in the timing takes amazing skill and talent on the part of the author. What are three things people may not know about you? —I have fourteen siblings all from the same parents. —My dad is 91 and has published a book available on Amazon of his memories as a foot soldier in WWII – it’s called “Dear Mom.” —I can’t tell a joke properly. I almost always forget the punch line. "Finished it! And really, really enjoyed it! You nailed the characters of David and Grace–David was so intriguing and mysterious and completely likeable. Grace’s mental commentary made you feel like you knew her and made her relatable right from the start. All the characters for that matter were really well developed and unique. I loved the story line as well. Such a cool concept. I kept wanting to read more, especially as the book progressed and their predicament was building." — Advanced Reader THE AUTHOR Amanda Uhl has always had a fascination with the mystical. Having drawn her first breath in a century home rumored to be haunted, you might say she was "born" into it. After a brief stint in college as a paid psychic, Amanda graduated with a bachelor of fine arts in theatre and a master's degree in marketing. Over the past twenty years, she has worked as an admissions representative and graphic designer, owned her own freelance writing company, and managed communications for several Fortune 500 companies, most recently specializing in cyber security. Amanda is an avid reader and writes fast-paced, paranormal romantic suspense and humorous contemporary romance from her home in Cleveland, Ohio. When she's not reading or writing, you can find Amanda with her husband and three children, gathering beach glass on the Lake Erie shoreline or biking in Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Visit her online at www.amandauhl.com and follow her on Facebook at www.facebook.com/amandauhlauthor or Twitter at @AuAuthor. FEATURED BOOK Mind Waves 2015 Rudy Bronze Medalist from the Chesapeake Romance Writers If he can control her mind… Government operative David Jenkins is skilled at controlling his emotions. Feelings are lethal when your job is to infiltrate minds, erase and implant thoughts, and guard the nation’s intellectual capital. But even he can’t fight his strange attraction to Grace Woznisky. He’ll do whatever it takes to protect her from a madman intent on possessing both their minds. Neither suspect their dangerous enemy has a larger motive, and David may be Grace’s only chance for survival. Can he control her heart? All freelance artist Grace wants is steady-paying work and to see her flighty sister to the altar. But after David offers her a job, she finds herself in the middle of a mental tug of war—one that has her reeling from nightmares and fighting for her life. She must decide: Are her growing feelings for her new boss authentic, or is she a victim of his mind-altering abilities? Publisher: The Wild Rose Press Publication Date: October 7, 2016 BUY AT AMAZON #AuthorInterview #ParanormalRomance

THE BOOK The Highland Chiefs Series, Book 4 A READER'S OPINION A delightful Highland escape! Prisoner of the Highlander is the first book I've read by Kate Robbins, and I really enjoyed it. It's book four in her Highland Chiefs series, but I didn't feel like I was coming in on the middle of another story, except when it came to Alexander MacDonald. Otherwise, this read as a stand-alone which was very nice. Annabella Beaufort, cousin to the Queen Consort of Scotland, and Angus MacDonald, future Lord of the Isles, are well matched in this romantic adventure through the western isles. I enjoyed the author's beautiful descriptions of Scotland's western isles and felt like I was there. There were a few times when the dialogue brought me out of the 1400s, but overall the author did a nice job keeping me rooted in the 15th century. I could tell she enjoyed writing the story, and she wove some nice history into the story. As for secondary characters, I find I liked Graham the most and could see him having his own story. Prisoner of the Highlander is filled with romance and a dash of adventure, and is sure to please readers of Highland romance. Reviewer's Rating: 4 Stars | Content Rating: 5 Hearts | Reviewed by: Kaylie Morgan BUY AT AMAZON | VIEW OUR RATING SYSTEM BOOK SYNOPSIS Annabella Beaufort, cousin to the Queen Consort of Scotland, visits court in Edinburgh upon the queen’s urging. She has little interest in this wild and rugged land and is pleasantly surprised to find Linlithgow Palace and King James’ court quite refined. An attack on Edinburgh Castle by a savage Highlander results in her capture. This flaxen haired giant is like nothing she’s encountered before, but her fear of him quickly turns to lust and she prays he will not also claim her heart. Son of the great Alexander MacDonald, beloved Lord of the Isles, Angus MacDonald refuses to bend to King James’ tyrannical rule. After his father is imprisoned, he becomes acting chief. Unlike his father and his schemes, Angus will attack and bring this king to his knees. His attempt to release his father is thwarted and instead he abducts the Queen’s cousin. His desire for her is intense and immediate, despite her flawed Sassenach ways. But he must keep her at arm’s length regardless of the raging passion she evokes in him. She is his pawn—his prisoner—and he must always remember that. Though they fight on opposite sides of the battle for power over Scotland, Angus and Annabella discover a fire that will not be ignored or denied. Will their loyalties to their families tear them apart? If he sets her free, will she return to him? Or will she in turn imprison his heart for all eternity? Print Length: 222 pages Publisher: Tirgearr Publishing Publication Date: November 9, 2016 Format Read: E-Book | Source: Provided by the author or publisher VIEW FTC DISCLAIMER ON BOOK REVIEWS #AReadersOpinion #HighlandRomance #HistoricalRomance

THE BOOK He had no future. She had no past. A READER'S OPINION Spellbound! Beyond the Shadows by Linda Boulanger has all of the key elements to a really dynamic and beautifully written romance! I sat down to read the first chapter and ended up being unable to put it down until I had reached the end. I have read and enjoyed very much, Dance With The Enemy by this author! She has done her magic again! The thing I like most about Ms. Boulanger’s books, is that they hook you in right from the start and keep you there! I loved it so much! I got swept away and felt drawn to her two beautiful characters, Redahn and Mahryn. What a wonderful imagination this author has! I soon got hooked in their journey filled with hope and love! A real page turner! Beyond the Shadows is the beautiful story of two broken souls, Redahn and Mahryn. Their journey will be filled with hope, trust and lots of twists and turns! The hero, Redahn, may look and seem like an arrogant man, but underneath he is a sweet, patient and emotional man! He has no intentions of finding a wife, preferring to choose a maiden during the Dremis Celebration. However, his plan will change him forever. Mahryn is a stubborn, broken soul, serving her father like a puppet. Horrible visions still haunt her, leaving her with an unknown past. As they meet, Redahn feels like a protector toward Mahryn and their relationship will become complex with ups and downs. Together they will bond to find answers related to their own lives. Now our warrior is not sure of his own feelings towards Mahryn! We meet again, Tahruk and Elenya, from Dance With the Enemy . Beyond the Shadows is a fantastic tale of hope and romance! I strongly recommend Ms. Boulanger’s The Land of Riandus series! A must read! Reviewer's Rating: 5 Stars | Content Rating: 5 Hearts | Reviewed by: Nicole Laverdure BUY AT AMAZON | VIEW OUR RATING SYSTEM BOOK SYNOPSIS In a time when men fought for their king, protected him and their families with might and sword, Redahn Sharanis questions his self-worth after losing strength in his arm due to a battle injury and botched surgery. He grows hard, maintaining a facade of bitterness and cynicism that only begins to chip away after he meets a woman at the annual gathering of the maidens who is smothered by her own shadows. Eighteen year old Mahryn's innocence is tarnished by the baggage of her past and now she's been thrown into the pool of beautiful maidens, whose sole purpose is to provide pleasure to the King's warriors. Knowing she was sent by her father when he could have made a good match for her opens a floodgate of questionable memories from her past. And if that wasn't enough, she manages to attract the attention of a man fighting his own battles-- a warrior who had been second only to his older brother, the King's finest, before he was wounded. But there's more to both of them. Lord Redahn is fiercely loyal and bound by his own code of honor . . . traits that Mahryn's presence brings out. She's stronger than any woman Redahn has ever known, which comes to light when her true past is exposed. Together they begin to help one another fit the puzzle pieces of their lives back into their right places, though the picture that results isn't something everyone wants to see. Print Length: 210 pages Publisher: TreasureLine Publishing Publication Date: November 10, 2015 Format Read: E-Book | Source: Provided by the author or publisher VIEW FTC DISCLAIMER ON BOOK REVIEWS #AReadersOpinion #HistoricalRomance