As Black Tuesday triggers financial despondency, three young couples in New York City must trade their lives of luxury for poverty, tragedy, and setbacks. When Jonathan Garrett's brokerage firm collapses on the day of the Stock Market Crash, he unites with his closest friends (and former business partners), Aryl and Caleb, to relocate, track down a low-paying job, and cultivate a new life. As the three men toil in their laborious jobs, their wives, Ava, Arianna, and Claire, slowly adapt to life in a shabby, rundown apartment, learning to sew, cook, and clean. With the help of their former, outspoken, Irish maid, Maura, and a new, equally Irish friend, Shannon, the wives become even closer than before.The couples' rocky path leads to more turmoil, however, when a business rival, Victor Drayton, creates one disaster after another. From petty tricks to outright violence, Victor's nefarious mind will stop at nothing to beat down Jonathan's last glimmer of hope. Despite everything, Jonathan and his friends are fixated on surviving. Emotional and financial destruction nip at their heels, until finally, with a lucky twist of fate, they escape city life and begin anew in their hometown of Rockport, Massachusetts. A story set in the past, 1929 is full of romance, drama, and humor. Vivid, expertly crafted characters make this novel more than memorable-1929 is unforgettable.

After the gloomy memorial, the formerly pampered 1929 characters mourn the loss of Aryl Sullivan. Claire, now a pregnant widow, is too devastated to cope and withdraws from the group, delving into a deep depression. Caleb drowns his own sorrow in a bottle of whiskey, and Jonathan becomes obsessed with finding the true cause for the boat's explosion. And Ava anxiously awaits the birth of their child. As the family and friends come to grips with Aryl's death, the struggle to survive both emotionally and financially strains everyone in different ways.So it's up to Maura to see them past the worst of it, but she faces setbacks of her own when complications arise in her pregnancy. The new sheriff, Marvin, is working both sides of the law and takes advantage of Caleb's state, getting him involved in bootlegging that threatens the business and his family. A concerned Patrick tries to help him, but stubborn as a mule, Caleb won't listen.But the gears of life slowly start to move again, and new friends are made and old enemies return. Claire finds refuge in Gordon, a widower, and the two find a common bond, finally allowing her to move on and accept her new life.Until she's met with a shocking surprise.

The saga of The 1929 Series continues as Aryl's battle with opiates forces Jonathan and Caleb to take drastic measures in an effort to save him. Claire clings desperately to the hope that the man she fell in love with, and lost, will reemerge from the depths of his addiction.Ava confronts a dark secret from her past that sends her spiraling deeper into her postpartum depression. And instead of reaching out to Jonathan, she withdraws from her friends and her life.While Arianna is expecting their third child, Caleb finds himself ensnared in Marvin's tangled web of deceit and blackmail. He struggles to keep his family safe as he maneuvers his way out of the nightmare.Bonds are renewed and further strengthened as the families band together. Will they have the tenacity to overcome their ordeals? Or will this forever destroy their friendships as they know it?

Who was the Mysterious 355?Can any of these three women change the course of the American Revolution? The Redcoats are headed to New York City and Culper Ring spies Hercules Mulligan and Robert Townsend have a job that only a woman can do. Pregnant Elizabeth Burgin will put her family in jeopardy in order to save the lives of strangers. British sympathizer Meg Moncrieffe must amend the damage she caused after Aaron Burr spurned her. Sally Townsend is willing to seize any opportunity to pass on information to her brother... until she finds herself falling in love with the enemy. And one false move could result in the noose for all of them. A semi-finalist in the GOETHE Book Awards for post-1750s Historical Fiction! Though you never learned of these real-life women in history class, their voices deserve to be heard. If you like the Broadway hit Hamilton, AMC's Turn, and Alexander Rose's Washington's Spies, you won't be able to put down this meticulously researched tale of family, duty, love, and betrayal. Pick it up today!

"I swear. Give me one more chance and I will make the most of it."

Ex-escort Javier Landes is asking for his third chance at love. And the third time is the charm. He meets an art therapist named Steffen Finch and what starts as casual deepens into a passionate relationship-everything Jav has ever wanted, and everything he fears losing.

Stef's business card reads Curator & Sailor. His creativity and insightful nature have made him into a talented therapist, the one to call for tough cases. His professional success can't conceal a deep need to connect with someone, but Javier Landes is the last person Stef expected.

Geronimo "Geno" Caan is Stef's most challenging case. To cope with his ordeal, he's allowed an alter-ego called Mos to make decisions, and now lives a double life within a web of lies. Under Stef's navigation, Geno uses art to express what Mos forbids to be spoken aloud. But as Geno's attachment to Stef gradually extends to Jav, the boundaries between professional and personal begin to blur.

Over the course of a year, Jav, Stef and Geno form an unexpected and unconventional triangle, revealing how men make love in times of war and how love is a great wisdom made up of small understandings. The long-awaited second book of the Venery series, A Charm of Finches is an epic tale of survival and secrets guaranteed to make you think and feel and remember.

About the Author
Laqueur, Suanne: - A former professional dancer and teacher, Suanne Laqueur went from choreographing music to choreographing words. Becoming an avid reader, cook and gardener, she started her blog EatsReadsThinks in 2010 and published her debut novel, The Man I Love, in 2014. Her fourth novel An Exaltation of Larks was the grand prize winner in the 2017 Writer's Digest Book Awards and took first place in the 2019 North Street Book Prize. Laqueur graduated from Alfred University with a double major in dance and theater. She taught at the Carol Bierman School of Ballet Arts in Croton-on-Hudson for ten years, while working as a business analyst for Verizon. She now works in publishing and lives in Westchester County, New York with her husband and two children.

“Cox’s delightful storytelling has a bewitching charm that will keep readers glued to their seats with a perfect blend of absorbing historical facts, intriguing mystery, and thrilling romance.” —Readers’ Favorite

A spiritualist, an insane asylum, a lost little girl…

When Clive, anxious to distract a depressed Henrietta, begs Sergeant Frank Davis for a case, he is assigned to investigating a seemingly boring affair: a spiritualist woman operating in an abandoned schoolhouse on the edge of town who is suspected of robbing people of their valuables. What begins as an open and shut case becomes more complicated, however, when Henrietta—much to Clive’s dismay—begins to believe the spiritualist's strange ramblings.

Meanwhile, Elsie begs Clive and Henrietta to help her and the object of her budding love, Gunther, locate the whereabouts of one Liesel Klinkhammer, the German woman Gunther has traveled to America to find and the mother of the little girl, Anna, whom he has brought along with him. The search leads them to Dunning Asylum, where they discover some terrible truths about Liesel. When the child, Anna, is herself mistakenly admitted to the asylum after an epileptic fit, Clive and Henrietta return to Dunning to retrieve her. This time, however, Henrietta begins to suspect that something darker may be happening. When Clive doesn’t believe her, she decides to take matters into her own hands…with horrifying results.

More Reviews:

2021 IPPY Awards Gold Winner in Fiction Book Series
2021 Independent Press Awards Winner in Romantic Suspense
2021 IBPA Benjamin Franklin Awards Gold Winner in Mystery & Thriller Fiction
2021 Illinois Women's Press Association Winner in Adult Fiction
15th Annual National Indie Excellence Awards Finalist in Mystery and Regional Fiction/Midwest
2021 Killer Nashville Silver Falchion Award Finalist
2020 Best Book Awards Winner in Mystery
2020 Shelf Unbound Indie Book Awards Longlist
2020 Foreword Book Awards Gold Winner in Mystery
2020 Best Book Awards Winner in Romantic Suspense
2020 CIBA Mystery & Mayhem Book Awards First Place Winner
2020 CIBA Clue Book Awards Semi-Finalist
2020 CIBA Chatelaine Book Awards Finalist in Romance
2020 Readers’ Favorite Book Awards Finalist in Mystery (Sleuth)
2020 American Fiction Awards Winner in Historical Mystery/Suspense and Romantic Suspense
2020 International Book Awards Finalist in Cross Genre
2019 Next Generation Indie Book Awards Finalist in Best Series

“A Child Lost is undoubtedly a novel that should not be missed—the story is genius, flawlessly written, and wildly entertaining! A thrilling five stars!” —The Red Headed Book Lover

“Once again, Cox delivers the passion and intrigue of Henrietta and Clive with a story that leaps right off the page. A Child Lost is a true thrill…” —Paperback Paris

“The characters’ depth and complexity is beautifully written…this is a truly enjoyable and addicting series.” —Nurse Bookie

“Cox has created an authentic and fascinating world in Chicago between the world wars. It is evident that the period and the city have been meticulously researched…excellent writing and characters.” —Smorgasbord Book Reviews

“There is not a dull moment in this book. Cox's characters are so well portrayed in their physical traits, their manner of speech, their actions, their personalities as well as through their dilemmas and moments of joy. Cox sure knows how to create characters that are memorable and distinct.” —Library of Clean Reads

“Having already won myriad awards for her novels, this book is, in my opinion, the author’s best written yet. The action/suspense at the end of A Child Lost sizzles, and Cox’s ability to capture love in many of its varied, authentic forms is mesmerizing. Cox has knocked it totally out of the park.” —Carolyn Breckinridge, author of Kaleidoscope Jane: & Other Stories

“There are several different plots progressing within the story, and they wonderfully weave themselves through and around each other. Through the variety of stories, readers get a taste of the paranormal, mystery, crimes old and new, and plenty of passion. In addition to the well-edited text, what is also done exceptionally well is characterization.” —Hall Ways Book Blog

“Michelle Cox‘s Henrietta and Inspector Howard series is a delightful mix of historical fiction and intrigue with a bit of saucy lovemaking tossed in. In A Child Lost, the fifth book, she adds spooky. Right away, we're swept into the story…” —Book Trib

“…vivid descriptive prose and historical accuracy.” —Publishers Weekly

Author Bio:

Michelle Cox is the author of the multiple award-winning Henrietta and Inspector Howard series as well as "Novel Notes of Local Lore," a weekly blog dedicated to Chicago's forgotten residents. She suspects she may have once lived in the 1930s and, having yet to discover a handy time machine lying around, has resorted to writing about the era as a way of getting herself back there. Coincidentally, her books have been praised by Kirkus, Library Journal, Publishers Weekly, Booklist, and many others, so she might be on to something. Unbeknownst to most, Michelle hoards board games she doesn't have time to play and is, not surprisingly, addicted to period dramas and big band music. Also marmalade.
 
Shop the Henrietta and Inspector Howard series

Self-published with She Writes Press

'A beautifully written historical novel with characters who linger long after the last page is turned.' Hazel Gaynor, New York Times bestselling author of The Girl Who Came Home

Society said they shouldn't fall in love...

It's 1828, and Ireland is in turmoil as Irish tenants protest against their upper-class English landlords.

Nineteen-year-old Bridget Muldowney is thrilled to return to the estate in Carlow she'll inherit when she comes of age. But since she left for Dublin seven years earlier, the tomboy has become a refined young lady, engaged to be married to a dashing English gentleman.

Cormac McGovern, now a stable hand on the estate, has missed his childhood friend. He and Bridget had once been thick as thieves, running wild around the countryside together.

When Bridget and Cormac meet again their friendship begins to rekindle, but it's different now that they are adults. Bridget's overbearing mother, determined to enforce the employer-servant boundaries, conspires with Bridget's fiancé to keep the pair apart.

With the odds stacked against them, can Bridget and Cormac's childhood attachment blossom into something more?

A Class Apart is the first book in Susie Murphy's historical fiction series A Matter of Class. The story continues in the second book, A Class Entwined.

Praise for A Class Apart:

'Susie Murphy writes with intelligence and assurance and has a real talent for capturing an authentic sense of time and place. I look forward to reading more from this bright new voice in historical fiction.' Hazel Gaynor, New York Times bestselling author of The Girl Who Came Home

'I am completely blown away by this series...Simply outstanding.' Book Reviews for U, book reviewer

'Excellent characters and an interesting plot...The chemistry and romance between the two was well written and believable.' The Lit Bitch, book reviewer

'Romance, drama, suspense, and beautiful scenery reign supreme in A Class Apart...The story encompasses the real truths that the people in Ireland had to face in their time, weaving a heartrending tale that's impossible not to read.' Ashley O'Melia, author and freelance writer

'A richly detailed, historical tale of love against all odds...As you read this story you will fall deeper and deeper into the history of Ireland at the time, into the characters themselves, and into the emotions that are so vividly described that you cannot help but be caught up in it all too.' Books Of All Kinds, book reviewer

'For those of you who like Historical Fiction, you are in for a real treat...I devoured this book.' Coffee, Books and China Cups, book reviewer

What readers are saying:

★★★★★ 'The Irish Downton Abbey! Fabulous.'

★★★★★ 'If it was possible to give 100 stars to this book, I would!'

★★★★★ 'An absolute page turner.'

★★★★★ 'I loved the book from start to finish.'

★★★★★ 'A brilliant love story.'

★★★★★ 'A hugely satisfying read.'

★★★★★ 'Get ready to fall in love!'

★★★★★ 'This is going to be a fantastic series of novels.'

★★★★★ 'Superbly written.'

★★★★★ 'I am already itching to read the next book in the series!'

'A book that you can't stop reading because you want to see how it ends, and yet you never want it to end...Susie Murphy is becoming one of my favorite authors.' Ashley O'Melia, author and freelance writer

They never thought they'd see each other again...

Trapped in a loveless marriage far from home, Bridget does what she can to fill her lonely days. She throws herself into charitable work, but her cherished daughter, Emily, is her only true source of happiness.

Meanwhile, Cormac's own life unravels and he finds himself doing unspeakable things just to survive.

Neither of them dream they will ever meet again, but fate brings them back together in the most unexpected of ways.

Can Bridget rediscover her love for the man Cormac has become? And how will Cormac react when he learns Bridget's secret?

A Class Entwined is the second book in Susie Murphy's historical fiction series A Matter of Class. The story continues in the third book, A Class Forsaken.

Praise for A Class Entwined:

'An Irish historical saga full of romance and betrayal across the class divide...My heart broke repeatedly for the characters as they navigated their harsh new existence, all the way to its riveting conclusion...Highly recommend!' Kelsey Gietl, author of Across Oceans

'Even better than the first...It kept me rapt throughout.' Elizabeth Bell, author of the Lazare Family Saga

'This book was a surprise and joy to read...The sympathy that the author created for her readers was exceptional.' The Lit Bitch, book reviewer

'One of my favorite books of this year...one that I will return to re-read again and again.' Coffee, Books and China Cups, book reviewer

'Wonderfully memorable characters, a page turning plot and a brilliant atmosphere...Susie Murphy is a fantastic storyteller who has really done her research.' Lisa Reads Books, book reviewer

'From the fast pace of the plot, to the incredible way the author sets a scene, to the inevitable investing into the lives of the characters, you will be hard-pressed to find a better read or a more gifted author.' Pursuing Stacie, book reviewer

What readers are saying:

★★★★★ 'Don't contemplate whether or not to read it, just read it!'

★★★★★ 'I couldn't put this book down.'

★★★★★ 'I finished the last chapter with my heart racing.'

★★★★★ 'Best read of your life.'

★★★★★ 'The chemistry between Bridget and Cormac is fantastic.'

★★★★★ 'Do yourself a favour and buy these books now.'

★★★★★ 'Each page kept me enthralled.'

★★★★★ 'A thoroughly absorbing read.'

★★★★★ 'I absolutely LOVED both books in this series so far.'

★★★★★ 'I really can't wait for the next instalment!'

EDITORS' CHOICE, HISTORICAL NOVEL SOCIETY

'This series keeps getting better...Once I started reading this book, it was so hard to stop...Such evocative writing.' Elizabeth Bell, author of the Lazare Family Saga

His past could destroy their future...

Having escaped capture in London, Bridget and Cormac flee to Ireland with their daughter, Emily. Their homecoming is bittersweet as they embark upon the daunting task of searching for Cormac's family who have been missing for over seven years.

Their journey takes them back to the familiar surroundings of the Oakleigh Estate in Carlow but their childhood home has become a different place to the one they remember. As they confront the consequences of Bridget's embittered mother's actions, they must also come to terms with an agonising choice between family and duty.

And when Cormac's murky past catches up with him, endangering the ones he loves, will the threat be great enough to crush the hopeful future he and Bridget have envisioned together?

A Class Forsaken is the third book in Susie Murphy's historical fiction series A Matter of Class. The story continues in the fourth book, A Class Coveted.

Praise for A Class Forsaken:

'Fast-paced and full of obstacles and adventure. Highly recommended for fans of historical romance and Irish history.' Editors' Choice, Historical Novel Society (February 2021 issue Historical Novels Review)

'Not only are Murphy's characters well developed, interesting, and genuine, but their love story is epic...These books have been wonderful reads and capture the essence of sweeping saga.' The Lit Bitch, book reviewer

'Susie writes this third instalment to the series with such love for her characters. Her work is so beautifully written, her attention to detail superb...You will love it if you enjoy historical fiction.' Book Reviews for U, book reviewer

'I loved how rich in detail the scenes were...I just flew through the pages...With adventure and drama and romance, this is a series I'll continue to recommend left, right and centre.' Between My Lines, book reviewer

'Susie Murphy's writing is powerful, romantic and absolutely page turning. Once again I was pulled into the story by the powerful storytelling and the carefully crafted and fully rounded characters.' Lisa Reads Books, book reviewer

'Murphy must own a time machine, or else she couldn't possibly do such a good job of sucking a modern-day reader completely back into 1800s Ireland. The story of Bridget and Cormac comes vividly to life in this sweeping tale of romance.' Ashley O'Melia, author and freelance writer

'Susie Murphy is an exceptional writer, with a keen ability for creating memorable characters and sweeping settings...Settle in for your new favorite book series.' Pursuing Stacie, book reviewer

What readers are saying:

★★★★★ 'This is a fantastic saga! I am completely hooked!'

★★★★★ 'Wonderful continuation of an epic love story.'

★★★★★ 'I enjoyed every minute of it.'

★★★★★ 'Characters that truly stay with you.'

★★★★★ 'Fabulous book, as gripping as the first two!'

★★★★★ 'If you love romance and historical regency then this series is for you.'

★★★★★ 'I just couldn't put it down.'

★★★★★ 'The continued storyline is a page turner.'

★★★★★ 'Highly recommended for any lover of Irish history and romance novels.'

★★★★★ 'I can't wait for the next book in the series!'

'There's something that happens at the end of every Susie Murphy book that I read; I absolutely cannot wait for the next one.' Kelsey Gietl, author of the War Across Waters duology

They'll do anything to protect their children...

Having taken matters into her own hands, a triumphant Emily is travelling towards a brighter future. The only thorn in her side is her mulish companion, Rory, who insists upon aggravating her at every opportunity. She believes she has become mistress of her own destiny but a monumental betrayal dashes her hopes and leaves her in a highly precarious position.

Back in Boston, the family she left behind are reeling from the impact of her rash actions. Faced with a difficult decision, they find themselves pulled in different directions. In the midst of fear and uncertainty, further peril befalls them, putting their sons at terrible risk too.

How far will Cormac and Bridget go to save their children? And will their once-happy family ever be whole again?

A Class Reunited is the fifth book in Susie Murphy's historical fiction series A Matter of Class. The story will continue in the sixth book, A Class Inherited.

Praise for A Class Reunited:

'Compulsively readable...full of heartfelt drama and character growth.' Elizabeth Bell, author of the Lazare Family Saga

'Susie Murphy...has done an incredible job writing a nuanced and sweeping historical saga...Another wonderful read.' The Lit Bitch, book reviewer

'Outstanding...If you have not yet read this wonderful series then you have a treat in store.' Lisa Reads Books, book reviewer

'Another fantastic foray into the past, with danger, adventure, love, and terror around every corner... Susie Murphy is a truly gifted writer.' Ashley O'Melia, author and freelance writer

What readers are saying:

★★★★★ 'The best yet...I was on the edge of my seat.'

★★★★★ 'Another super read from a favorite author.'

★★★★★ 'Did not want to put this down!'

★★★★★ 'This series just captivates you.'

★★★★★ 'The storyline keeps getting better!'

★★★★★ 'You almost feel like you're in the book.'

★★★★★ 'Just WOW...such an emotional rollercoaster.'

★★★★★ 'Murphy hits a home run again!'

★★★★★ 'The characters in this series are so well drawn.'

★★★★★ 'Susie Murphy is a one-of-a-kind author.'

"A heart-wrenching and poignant story of bravery. An impressive debut; I loved it." —Robert Dugoni, New York Times bestselling author of The World Played Chess and the Tracy Crosswhite series

A young farmer turns into a courageous resistance fighter after Nazi Germany invades Norway and steals his way of life.

Bjørn Erliksen lives a peaceful life on Norway’s west coast and has never considered himself anything but a farmer. But when Nazi Germany invades, and his country’s ill-equipped military collapses in less than two months, it falls on him and other ordinary Norwegians to fight back.

He escapes to England, trains with an elite Norwegian special forces army unit, and is smuggled back into his homeland as a commando. When Bjørn’s resistance work eventually reunites him with a lost love, they join forces to carry out dangerous sabotage missions, all the while working in the shadows to evade the Gestapo. He weighs love against duty, wrestling with his own conscience as he is forced to commit unspeakable acts and unexpected betrayals. Can Bjørn survive long enough to see Norway’s liberation and find his own peace?

Filled with thrilling historical details about a corner of Europe often forgotten in the story of WWII, A Coat Dyed Black illuminates the struggles and sacrifices of ordinary people compelled to do the extraordinary.

More Reviews:

"The narrative storytelling skills of Don Pugnetti Jr. as a novelist is clearly demonstrated, giving the reader an inherently fascinating entertainment." —Midwest Book Review

"An exciting, high-stakes story skillfully told." —Kirkus

"Through the lens of a reticent young farmer turned resistor, Don Pugnetti Jr. paints a vivid portrait of honor, duty, heartbreak, and survival during Nazi Germany's oppressive WWII occupation of Norway. Meticulously researched—a brilliant debut novel."  —DL Fowler, award-winning author of The Turn

"Readers discover a relatively unexplored corner of the war that resonates in light of current events, and we're entertained while we learn—no easy feat. A Coat Dyed Black will stay in your mind long after you close the final page." —Neil Turner, author of the suspense/thriller Tony Valenti series

Author Bio:

Miss Emma Arlen's position as a companion never included distracting her mistress's suitors, but when a handsome Italian ambassador arrives determined to find an English bride, Emma happily takes up the cause.

Emma Arlen has spent a decade as a member of the duke's family, in the position of companion to his daughter and ward to the duke himself. She would do anything to show her support to the ducal family for their love and kindness. When Lady Josephine begs Emma to distract a most determined Sicilian suitor, she agrees at once. How hard can it be to keep one man entertained for a few weeks?

Luca, the Conte di Atella, left his home in the newly formed Kingdom of the Two Sicilies under the direct orders of King Ferdinand I. Luca's duty as ambassador to England includes everything from negotiating better trade agreements to strengthening the bonds between the two nations. If possible, by marrying a lady of high birth. When he optimistically sets his sights on Lady Josephine, Miss Arlen consistently disrupts his plans. The more time that passes, the more he realizes he does not mind at all.

Continually in the conte's company, Emma recognizes in him a spirit of adventure and nobility like she has never witnessed before. When the time comes for him to go, will she be able to part with him and keep her heart intact?

As the second stand-alone novel in a new series by author Sally Britton, this story continues the Clairvoir Castle romances. This is a light-hearted, romantic series set in the Regency period.

First in Series: Mr. Gardiner and the Governess

Sally Britton's other works include:

The Inglewood Romances:

Rescuing Lord Inglewood

Discovering Grace

Saving Miss Everly

Engaging Sir Isaac

Reforming Lord Neil

and her seven novels in the Branches of Love Series.

"A well-crafted historical romance built on a marriage of convenience." —Kirkus

She Needed a Husband...

It's been three years since Laura Hayes's father died, leaving her and her invalid brother to subsist on the income from the family's failing perfume business. But time is swiftly running out. What she needs is a husband, and fast. A noble gentleman who can rescue them all from penury. When a mysterious stranger arrives in the village, he seems a perfect candidate. But Alex Archer is no hero. In fact, he just might be the opposite.

He Wanted a Fortune...

Alex has no tolerance for sentiment. He's returned to England for one reason only: to find a wealthy wife. A country-bred heiress in Surrey seems the perfect target. But somewhere between the village railway station and the manor house his mercenary plan begins to unravel. And it's all the fault of Laura Hayes—a lady as unsuitable as she is enchanting.

From the beaches of Margate to the lavender fields of Provence, a grudging friendship slowly blossoms into something more. But when scandal threatens, can a man who has spent his entire life playing the villain, finally become a hero? Or will the lure of easy riches once again outweigh the demands of his heart?

More Reviews:

"This was a fantastically easy read. I am an enormous fan of historical fiction anyway, but author Mimi Matthews' accurate and telling portrayal of life for women and men of some privilege in the early Victorian age was wonderful and compelling. A Convenient Fiction is beautifully written and flows incredibly well." —Readers’ Favorite

"[Matthews] once again highlights the injustices of rigid class structures in Victorian England, this time matching a hero of dubious character and a worthy, resourceful heroine. Readers who enjoy their historicals set in the country—or seaside and France or England will be in for a treat." —Library Journal

"It seems that I say each book that Mimi Matthews pens is her best writing, but it appears to be true. She just gets better, and is rapidly becoming one of my very favorite authors. A Convenient Fiction is a top favorite of books I've read this year, and I heartily give it my highest recommendation." —The Romance Reviews

Author Bio:

USA Today bestselling author Mimi Matthews writes both historical non-fiction and traditional historical romances set in Victorian England. Her articles on nineteenth century history have been published on various academic and history sites, including the Victorian Web and the Journal of Victorian Culture, and are also syndicated weekly at BUST Magazine. In her other life, Mimi is an attorney. She resides in California with her family, which includes an Andalusian dressage horse, two Shelties, and two Siamese cats.

Shop the Parish Orphans of Devon series

Shop all Mimi Matthews books

Deceit and death in the country...

When Rose Beckingham receives a threatening message from a shadowy figure of the criminal underworld, she's forced to face her greatest fear--the exposure of all her secrets.

Forced to do the bidding of the man who calls himself the Chess Master, Rose accompanies Lord and Lady Ashton to their country estate and tries to thwart a murder before it happens.

With the Chess Master watching her every move and the brilliant French detective, Achilles Prideaux, dragging the deeds of her past out of the shadows, can Rose capture a killer in time to protect everyone she loves? Or will a weekend at Ridgewick Hall end the same way it began - with bloodshed?

Living on an island plagued by magic and mythical monsters isn't a fairy tale . . . it's a nightmare.

Aveen is the perfect lady, placid and well-mannered, concealing her discontentment beneath false smiles and gentle nods. As the eldest, her duty has always been to her family legacy and her sister's happiness. But when she finds herself forced into betrothal to a man she loathes, she swears she'll do anything to escape. Even if it means bargaining with a wicked fae prince.

Rían is a devious half-fae with a dark secret, concealing his true nature beneath glamours and lies. When a fascinating human accidentally catches his eye, it's clear he'll do anything to take her for himself. Including making promises he can't-or won't-keep.

Confronting hidden dangers and haunting pasts, the two reluctantly come to rely on each other to survive a world where nothing is what it seems and darkness encroaches from all sides.

Will their tangled web of lies bring freedom they crave . . . or will it unravel them both?

Living on an island plagued by magic and mythical monsters isn't a fairy tale... it's a nightmare.

After Keelynn witnesses her sister's murder at the hands of the legendary Gancanagh, an immortal creature who seduces women and kills them with a cursed kiss, she realizes there's nothing she wouldn't do to get her back. With the help of a vengeful witch, she's given everything she needs to resurrect the person she loves most.

But first, she must slay the Gancanagh.

Tadhg, a devilishly handsome half-fae who has no patience for high society-or propriety-would rather spend his time in the company of loose women and dark creatures than help a human kill one of his own.

That is until Keelynn makes him an offer he can't refuse.

Together, they embark on a cross-country curse-breaking mission that promises life but ends in death.

A Cursed Kiss is the first in a series of *stand-alone* interconnected dark romantic fantasies inspired by Irish mythology with a happily-ever-after ending. It's perfect for readers who enjoy stories with enemies-to-lovers and a touch of magic. A Cursed Kiss features sizzling romance that rates a 6 on the Romantic Content Rating System (RCRS).

An old case spills new blood As an investigator with the CIA's Inspector General's office, Dennis loves policing the agency's network of spies for liars and thieves. But each time he plows into a case, it's harder for him to keep alive his relationship with Judy, an Aussie cop and the only woman who understands his passions and quirks. When Dennis and Judy meet in London to rekindle their relationship, they are sucked into the city's dark underworld. To save Judy's life Dennis must solve two cases simultaneously. If you like non-stop action, dark humor and complicated heroes, then you'll love A Dark Place.

About the Author
Keith Yocum was born in Ridgecrest, California, the civilian town supporting the China Lake Naval Weapons Center in the Mojave Desert. His father, an electrician and former WWII submariner, married an Australian Army nurse he met in a military hospital during the war. After WWII the family lived near China Lake for several years until they moved to the Panama Canal Zone in the mid-1950s. Keith attended school in the Canal Zone and experienced both the easy-going colonial lifestyle of that period, along with the darker side of the Cold War, including being accidentally tear gassed during leftist anti-government riots. In the early 1960s his family moved to Northern Virginia where his father worked as a civilian for the military. In 1967 the family moved to an obscure Naval submarine communications station in Western Australia to be close to his mother's family. Keith attended a Christian Brothers boarding school near Perth, Western Australia and took up several sports including rugby, where he was chosen to represent the state in the junior rugby squad championships in Tasmania. During his two years at the boarding school he wrote a diary, and has never been able to kick the habit of writing. He graduated from George Mason University in Fairfax, VA with a degree in philosophy. After college he decided that journalism was the only profession that actually paid someone to write, and he received a Master's Degree in journalism from American University in Washington, D.C. He moved to the Boston area in the late 1970s and worked for several local weekly newspapers, including a chain weeklies that he founded in the 1984. After the chain was sold, he worked for The Boston Globe in a variety of roles over 11 years. Later her worked at The New England Journal of Medicine for 13 years as a director in the advertising department. He has published three novels. For a complete bio visit www.keithyocum.com.

Our darkest secrets are best left buried...

When a local journalist is found dead in an isolated spot on Roydon Common, lying beneath a hangman's noose on the anniversary of a teenager's suicide, DI Tom Janssen is asked to take on the investigation as a favour to local colleagues and must unpick the deceased man's life to discover how he came to be there. The dead man was working on something, a story he was keeping close to his chest and even those closest to him, loved ones and colleagues, were kept in the dark. He had his own secrets, a side to his character that he rarely showed to others unless they were unlucky. But what did he know that was so damaging as to be worth killing for? As the team delve into his life, past and present, the investigation pulls in successful business people, grieving family members, and a local celebrity with fascinating stories to tell. As the investigation develops it becomes clear that more than one person is harbouring a secret... but are they secrets that are worth a man's life? As past sins threaten to be exposed, will someone be forced into killing again?

Set within the mysterious beauty of coastal Norfolk, this fast-paced British detective novel is a dark murder mystery that will keep you guessing until the very end when the final shocking twist is revealed.

About the Author
Dalgliesh, J. M.: - Jason Dalgliesh was born on the south coast of England and grew up in Hampshire, UK. He has worked in the power transmission industry, the retail sector, call centres and as a night-owl in a bakery. His greatest challenge of all is ongoing, as a stay at home parent. Having spent time abroad, Jason has lived and worked in various parts of England as well as the Scottish Highlands. He currently resides in Norfolk with his wife and two young children.

Jack Noble has 37 hours to stop a madman hell bent on tearing him down.

Washington, D.C. Midday. A man waits at a bus stop, his intentions unknown. Two government operatives have been stalking him for days, waiting for him to make his move. Unexpectedly, the man takes off running and heads for a deserted warehouse.

Jack Noble and his partner, Frank Skinner, believe the man to be part of a terrorist organization that is involved in smuggling drugs and guns and men into the country. But it turns out their plan involves far more export than import...

And hits a lot closer to home.

As the case unfolds, the man behind it all reaches out to Jack with a simple message...

37 hours.

This fast-paced crime thriller with over 2000 5-star reviews by Wall Street Journal and USA Today bestselling author L.T. Ryan will have you burning through the pages as Jack Noble races to stop a madman before he claims Noble's life.

37 HOURS...
TO STOP A MADMAN...
HELLBENT ON TEARING NOBLE DOWN.

L.T. Ryan's Jack is back in the second epic page-turning novel in the USA Today bestselling Jack Noble Thriller Series.

Washington, D.C. Midday. A man waits at a bus stop, his intentions unknown. Two government operatives have been stalking him for days, waiting for him to make his move. Unexpectedly, the man takes off running and heads for a deserted warehouse.

Jack Noble and his partner, Frank Skinner, believe the man to be part of a terrorist organization that is involved in smuggling drugs and guns and men into the country. But it turns out their plan involves far more export than import, and hits a lot closer to home.

As the case unfolds, the man behind it all reaches out to Jack with a simple message...

37 hours.

This fast-paced crime thriller with over 1000 5-star reviews by USA Today bestselling author L.T. Ryan will have you burning through the pages as Jack Noble races to stop a madman before he claims Noble's life.

Fans of Tom Clancy's Jack Ryan, Lee Child's Jack Reacher, Vince Flynn's Mitch Rapp, and Robert Ludlum's Jason Bourne will enjoy the Jack Noble Thriller Series.

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Readers are saying...

★★★★★ "JASON BOURNE, JACK RYAN, JACK REACHER. AND NOW JACK NOBLE..."

★★★★★ "I totally agree with the reviewer who said if you like Jack Reacher, you'll love Jack Noble."

★★★★★ "I enjoy the Jack Noble character as much as Mitch Rapp, Scott Horvath, or Jack Ryan."
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Other Books in the Jack Noble Series of Political and Action Thrillers

A Deadly Distance is the second of thirteen Jack Noble espionage thriller books. In addition, a recently released prequel, and five series spin-offs are available. The series has earned thousands of five-star reviews, and has been downloaded over two-million times to Kindles around the world.

If you enjoy gripping thrillers loaded with suspense, action, twists & turns, Jack Noble is for you

Noble beginnings was a top 100 book on Amazon from June 2018 through August 2018

L.T. Ryan spent 15 consecutive months in Amazon's top 100 authors list from June 2018 through September 2019

USA Today Bestseller L.T. Ryan: 3/27/2014, 3/5/2015, 7/7/2016, 12/15/2016, 5/25/2017

When a corrupt chief dies, the ancestors refuse to welcome him into their ranks. Instead, they send him back to try it again. With his short temper and confused memories, he faces a hard road to redemption. But he gets some help from spirits and friends, both living and dead.

About the Author
Kathleen Flanagan Rollins writes the award-winning Misfits and Heroes prehistoric adventure series about early explorers who reached the Americas. Her short stories have appeared in The Foliate Oak, The Sunlight Press, and Shark Reef Literary Journal.

Perils and plots in British India...

When Rose Beckingham's pursuit of an international spy leads to the uncovering of an assassination plot, she'll have to race against time to prevent a crime before it occurs. The dangerous investigation will threaten her relationship with Achilles Prideaux, while leading her from the dusty streets of Morocco to the deep jungles of India.

With the roots of the mystery leading back to the deaths of the real Rose and her parents, the case is personal. Rose is drawn to the site of last summer's explosion, where a ruthless murderer strikes again. Can she discover the terrible secrets behind the fate of the Beckinghams before it's too late? Or will a mercenary killer escape and carry the truth away with him?

As a homicide detective, Rosemaria Baker is known for her street smarts, her feisty personality and her ability to nail the bad guys.

Being the daughter of a cop and an actress gave little Rosemaria a dichotomous view of life. Her mother was inclined to get lost in her fantasies while her father had to face the harsh realities of a world filled with murder and mayhem. Nine-year-old Rosemaria loved both her parents and admired her mother's talent but even at a young age she felt drawn to her father's work as a detective, constantly begging him to share with her every detailed description of the dangerous criminals and close calls he survived while chasing the bad guys.

Whatever Rosemaria did she did it well; be it hitting baseballs, shooting baskets, writing school papers, she put her all into every endeavor. When tragedy invaded her world at the tender age of ten, she survived because of her innate ability to compartmentalize her feelings and move forward.

While still in college she was faced with a terrifying situation where she had to use all of her mental and physical capabilities in an effort to save her father's life. Ignoring what would have been safe and expected of her and asking no one's advice, she risked everything to find him and bring him home alive.

A deadly welcome...

On her return to London, Rose Beckingham's reunion with her relatives is marred by shadows from the past. When a family wedding moves the party to the English countryside, it isn't long before old resentments resurface and dark suspicions are awakened.

With a sudden death throwing everyone into turmoil, can Rose unmask the killer stalking the corridors of Ridgewick Hall? And what of Rose's own secrets? Has the time come for a final reveal?

I should wonder why I feel so comfortable with Taylor. Why I'm so enamored with a stranger I met at a bar.I should, but I don't.

Alice Brewster is at a low point. After being let go from her job at the ritzy Grant Hotel, she's taken to hiding out at a dingy Manhattan pub just so that she won't have to tell anyone the shameful truth.


So when blonde, beautiful Taylor waltzes in one sunny afternoon, Alice is ready for the distraction of an unpredictable new friend.

As Alice and Taylor get closer, Alice confesses the real reason she lost her job - a hotel guest, the wealthy real estate mogul Weston Chambers, assaulted her.


But while Alice wants sympathy, Taylor's rage is white hot. We could kill him, she says.


Alice thinks she's joking. Of course she's joking.


But then Weston Chambers turns up dead.


And Taylor is nowhere to be found. Now Alice is the prime suspect in the murder. But can she track down Taylor - and unravel the truth about her new friend's real motives - before it's too late?

August 1925 After a slew of cases for Jack, a new book, and a series of business meetings for Vi, and an excess of Violet's stepmother for them both, Vi and Jack determine to flee to a lodge in the woods. A little fresh air, a ramble or two, afternoon naps, lingering mornings over a cup of Turkish coffee and perhaps all will be aright again. Only one morning walk ends with a body and yet again, Violet, Jack, and their friends find themselves involved in a mysterious death. The main suspects for the killer are none other than the victim's long-time friends. Just why do you turn on an old friend? And if you've done it once, will you do it again? Book THIRTEEN in the Violet Carlyle Mysteries. Are you ready for the roaring twenties? You'll love Vi, her patient husband Jack, her indulgent twin Vic, and their friends. For fans of Carola Dunn, Jacqueline Winspear, Georgette Heyer, and Lee Strauss. A light, cozy mystery with a fun peek into life in the life of a bright young thing. No swearing, graphic scenes, or cliffhangers.The Violet Carlyle Mysteries1- Murder & The Heir2- Kennington House Murder3- Murder at the Folly 4- A Merry Little Murder*5- Murder Among the Roses6- Murder in the Shallows 7- Gin & Murder 8- Obsidian Murder 9- Murder at the Ladies Club 10- Wedding Vows & Murder11- A Jazzy Little Murder12- Murder by Chocolate*13- A Friendly Little Murder 14- Murder by the Sea15- Murder on All Hallows16- Murder in the Shadows17 A Jolly Little Murer*There are two short stories that fall between A Merry Little Murder and Murder Among the Roses. They are: New Year's Madness and Valentine's Madness. There is a short story that falls between Murder by Chocolate and A Friendly Little Murder found in Candlelit Madness.