Sandra C. Lopez's Blog

Young Adult

Date Published: April 10th 2026

Publisher: Acorn Publishing

 

To Die For is a harrowing look into the life of a narcissist who refuses to take accountability for the damage she inflicts.

High school senior Dei Fields appears completely harmless, but she has a keen instinct for manipulation. When she first sets eyes on hot star athlete Mika St. John, she’s determined to have him … and Dei always gets what she wants. There are only three obstacles: Mika’s friends, his family, and his girlfriend. But Dei isn’t afraid to destroy relationships to satisfy her fantasies.

In a matter of weeks, she love-bombs Mika into thinking he has found his soulmate, but when Dei’s plans go awry, everything changes—including her identity. Will Dei get what she wants this time? Or will she finally get what she deserves?

 

About the Author

 
 Audrey Steidl is the award-winning author of the romantic thriller The Fallen. Her passion for storytelling began at an early age when she wrote scripts and performed them with her neighborhood friends in full costume and makeup. This love blossomed into a career as an actress and as a producer for cable television.
Now, when she’s not writing page-turners, Audrey is a hotel travel executive, a pilates fiend, and a lover of travel and art. A long-time San Diego resident, she shares her home with her husband Jamie and their mischievous Pomeranian Loki. Her latest novel, To Die For, is inspired by those who have the courage to walk away from narcissists and emotionally abusive relationships.

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Reporter Bobbie was tasked tocover a story in the snowy mountains. During a simulated Search and Rescuemission, a real dead body was found in the snow. Talk about a frosty find.

 

With treachery conditionskeeping everyone on the mountain, everyone was a suspect and a killer was onthe loose. It was up to Bobbie, Rachael, and Bailey to solve the case.Absolutely love that dog! A quick and fun mystery!

 

Rating:4 stars

 

This one had some typos andtakes a while to get going with the kids playing a lot of pranks about themonster blood. Yes, we know that pranks is a huge thing with R.L. Stine books.But there’s a limit to them.

 

Evan, who was staying at hiscousin’s house, was sure freaking out about that Monster Blood and…who couldblame him, right? This time a whole new can of Monster Blood comes into play.Kind of weird how the lid kept flying all over the place. Of course, the worstof it was when the blue slime kept growing and multiplying. Whatever you do,don’t give it water. A pretty good read.

 

Rating:3 stars

 

What if there was suddenlymore than one of you? What would you do? Well, have the clones do all the workof course! But what if your double really blows at being you? And then you havea third just like it? Oh dear! You can just see all the chaos that happenshere. A short, quick, fun read!

 

Rating:4 stars

 

Can two imperfect people finally decide that they're perfectfor each other?

Picture Imperfect

Destination Romance Book 1

by Kate Berberich

Genre: Contemporary Travel Romance

Bad girl turned heiress, Lacey Devere has a penchant forfalling for precisely the wrong person. Her dad is determined to give her afresh start, beginning with a luxurious European tour and a new camera tocapture each perfect moment.

Dan Lewis is a modern-day highwayman traveling the world, relieving wealthytourists of their excess cash and jewelry. He learned the hard way not to letanyone get too close.

Their heads are urging caution, but their hearts are being swept away by theglamour and romance of the dazzling cities they’re visiting.

 

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Dan checked his watch. Again. Heran a finger inside his shirt collar. The damn thing was custom-made. For whathe paid for it, he should bloody well be able to breathe.

Stop fidgeting. Anyone would thinkyou’d never worn a tux before.

Any number of appreciative glancesassured him it looked outstanding—if he’d been in any state to notice.

“Relax,” Mr. Wilson advised frombehind his ever-present newspaper. “My wife is well aware of the curtain time,and she won’t miss it for anything.”

“I feel like I ought to apologizefor this,” Dan offered.

“Eh…Martha would have found anexcuse to stuff me into this thing sooner or later.” Mr. Wilson—or at least hisnewspaper—shrugged. “It’s fine. Anyway, it’s good for her to have a pretty girlto fuss over. It takes her mind off…well…it’s good for her. This is better thanone of those charity events. People expect me to talk at those things. Andwrite checks. The seats at the opera house are extremely comfortable and if Iget bored, I can take a nap.”

Dan let the subject slide. He’ddone more in-depth digging online since they’d be spending the entire eveningwith the Wilsons. He knew what a day spent dress shopping and primping with ayoung woman would mean to Mrs. Wilson.

A flash of icy silver-blue caughthis eye. Just like in Madrid, his mouth went dry, and he forgot to breathe fora moment. Also, just like in Madrid, he vowed to never again criticize hissister’s taste in movies. All that romantic hokum must have some basis in fact.

Lacey and Mrs. Wilson stepped offthe elevator. The older lady wore a softly draped navy-blue gown with aglittering broach on one shoulder—a high-end fake, he guessed, since no one intheir right mind would travel with a genuine piece of that scale.

But Lacey…unlike her usualbright-colored outfits, tonight she wore a frosty blue gown that shimmered whenshe moved. Her hair was swept up in an elegant knot, with a few loose curlsframing her face. The entire ensemble somehow managed to be both demure andsexy at the same time.

Well, it was Lacey. Dan consideredher sexy in sweaty workout clothes. He questioned the eyesight of anyone whodid not.

Mr. Wilson folded his ever-presentnewspaper and swatted him with it. “Breathe, young man.” 

A Perfect Brew

Destination Romance Book 1.5

Dan Lewis is a man on a journey—and not just the summer tourof Prague. He’s escaping his past and embracing the sweetness of his new loveand new career with equal fervor. But old instincts are strong. When hisyounger sister, who he’s taken care of all his life, joins them for hergraduation trip, it stirs bitter memories of their history and all the thingshe did to keep them safe.

Lacey Devere is savoring every drop of summer, visiting romantic locales andreveling in long, steamy nights with Dan. She dumped her past mistakes down thedrain and embarked on their bold new future together. However, she’s learninglove is more than just sugar and cream.

Together Dan and Lacey learn true love means accepting your partner’simperfections and blending the bitter with the sweet. And sometimes, the bestfamily is the one you find for yourself.

 

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Dansauntered into the hotel lobby, hand in hand with Lacey. A few paces in, shewrapped her free hand around his arm, slowing them enough for Dylan to get afew steps ahead. She rested her head against his shoulder and smiled at him. Hegrinned, watching his sister, frozen on the green and blue mosaic tile floor,staring around in open-mouthed wonder.

Honestly,he’d had the exact same reaction the first time he walked into this hotel. Almostforgot to look for security cameras. He found them easily now: mainentrance, front desk, concierge desk, and elevator bank. A tinkling fountainmarked the center of the two-story lobby. Potted palm trees created intimatecorners, and armchairs and settees upholstered in soft blue velvet nestledamong the greenery.

Dylanwandered over to the gleaming glass enclosure, stretching to the skylights. Shetouched her fingertips to the window and a peacock stirred and blinked itsbeady eyes at her. A moment later, it unfurled its glorious tail feathers andtook a few mincing steps closer to the glass. She glanced over her shoulder atthem. “Okay, now I understand why you do this. Wow. Just…”

“Wow?”Lacey asked, tugging Dan by the hand.

Auniformed bruiser Dan pegged as security frowned at Dylan’s attire, but thennoticed her teal Dolce Vita wristband and subsided with a gracious smile andnod.

“Verywow.” Dylan flung her arms around Dan. “You’re the best big brother ever. Thankyou.”

He kissed her temple. “You’rewelcome.”

“Arethey all like this? All the hotels you stay in?”

“Well,all the hotels the company uses are five or six stars, but this one’s prettyspectacular, even by their standards. Why don’t we get you settled, then we canwalk around and explore the neighborhood a bit?”

“Andfind the nearest source of non-snack bar coffee?”

Herolled his eyes affectionately and steered her toward the shining brasselevators with filigree peacocks rendered on their doors.

A Perfectly ImperfectHoliday

Destination Romance Book 2

Lacey Devere is looking forward to her first holiday seasonwith the love of her life. Unfortunately, her sister’s wedding wiped her out.But is it just stress? Or are she and Dan facing the prospect of anotherpassenger on their new journey together?

Dan Lewis thought he had it all—a new legitimate career and an amazing woman heloves. But his beginning is off to a rocky start. A robbery took place on thelast tour, and he has no alibi. Can he live down his past, or will his andLacey’s first holiday season together be their last?

As the Christmas tour progresses through London, Amsterdam, Nuremberg, andVienna, they’ll deal with everything from bungled reservations to lostluggage—as well as a couple of life’s biggest questions—with their trademarkblend of humor and love. Most of all, they’ll figure out how to build a lifetogether.

 

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They were staying atthe “fairy castle” hotel again. The doorman bowed and a waft of spicey pinescent from the fresh greenery tickled Dan’s nose as they entered.

Christmas trees ofvarious sizes adorned in shades of blue, white, and silver replaced the creamand pink floral displays from their previous stay. A majestic gingerbreadcastle held pride of place on a satin-draped display table in the center of thelobby—thankfully with no rampaging soccer fans to destroy it.

Tastefulinstrumental holiday music played quietly over the sound system. Everything wasneat and polished and in its place. An aura of peaceful late-night quietprevailed.

The desk clerksmiled broadly and gestured to an enticing tower of pale blue and whitemacarons which stood on the front desk. “Gruss Gott.”

“Gruss Gott,”Lacey replied, reaching for a cookie.

Dan adjusted hissling irritably. “Dan Lewis and Lacey Devere, with the Dolce Vita holidaytour.”

“Of course, sir. Weunderstand from your hostess that one of your bags has yet to arrive. We tookthe liberty of prechecking you into your suite and having the remainder of yourluggage delivered. Your bathroom is fully stocked with complimentary toiletries,but if there is anything else we can supply, please call and we will be morethan happy to assist you.” He tapped a few keys on his computer, then slid akey pack across the counter.

Dan eyed itsuspiciously. “You have our reservation?”

“Certainly, HerrLewis. Dolce Vita travelers are among our most elite guests. We are delightedto welcome you and will of course do whatever we can to assist you with yourstay.”

Dan still didn’ttake the key pack. “And this is for a clean room?”

The bewildered clerknodded.

“With no one else init?”

Another nod.

“The door locks? Andthe world champion sports ball fans aren’t having a wild party on our floor?”

The clerk edgedsubtly away from the desk.

“The building’s noton fire?”

“Perhaps Herr Lewiswould care to speak to the manager on duty?”

A security guarddressed in a dark blue blazer emerged from the back office. He noddedpleasantly while exuding a distinct aura of “don’t mess with me.”

Lacey laid her warmhand on Dan’s good arm and squeezed gently while offering a bright smile to thedesk clerk. “I’m sure it’s fine. We’ve had…issues…with our accommodations thistrip.”

The clerk stared ather wide-eyed. “Apparently so.”

“And on that note,the missing piece of luggage is my garment bag. It’s got my gown for the NewYear’s Eve ball, so I’d appreciate a call whenever it’s delivered. The nightmanager can wake me up—I don’t care. I just want to know it’s safe.”

“Of course,Fräulein. Should you wish, our concierge would be happy to provide a list offine clothing establishments in the area.”

“I hope that won’tbe necessary but thank you. Are there any parcels for us?”

The clerk checkedhis computer. “Not at this time. Should any arrive, they will be delivered toyour suite.”

“Thank you. You’vebeen very helpful.” She elbowed Dan.

“Yeah…thanks.”

****

Dan slumped onto acouch covered in elaborate ice blue brocade. His movements dislodged severalslippery satin cushions, which tumbled to the floor. A Christmas tree decoratedwith shimmering blue glass baubles and white velvet ribbon swags stood in the corner.Glittering silver icicles tipped the branches. Fairy lights draping the treeand mantel cast a soft glow over the space.

Lacey returned froma walk-through of their suite and sat next to him, sending even more cushionscascading to the carpet. “Hey, guess what? It’s a nice clean room, with no oneelse in it, it’s a reasonable temperature, the doors lock, and there’s hot water.How’s that for a Christmas miracle?”

“It looks like ablue satin cushion factory exploded in here,” he grumbled.

“If they’d exploded,the room would be full of feathers, which it isn’t and please don’t give theuniverse any ideas. It has enough of its own.” She nestled into his side,filling his senses with hints of lavender and warmth. “It’s a beautiful room,we can sit on the furniture, and the tub is big enough for both of us.”

“And I can’t soak init.”

You’re being a jerk. You realize that, right?

She rolled her eyes.“You can rest your arm on a towel on the edge. There’s lots of plush blue andwhite towels. The velvety kind.”

He snorted. “I’mstill waiting for the other shoe to drop.”

She toyed with thebuttons on his shirt. “You know, right this second, you’re reminding me of avery particular holiday character, and it’s not a flattering one.”

He exhaledexplosively and sagged against the back of the sofa. “I’m sorry. It’s just…thiswhole trip, everything’s gone sideways.”

“And now we’re herein a lovely room and it’s almost Christmas and can we please just try to enjoyourselves? Please?”

Perfect By Design

Destination Romance Book 2.5

Set amidst the magnificent architecture and Mediterraneansunshine of Barcelona, Dan and Lacey design their perfect future. No matterwhere in the world they travel, they know home is in each other’s arms.Together their love is as strong as a Gothic cathedral’s granite foundation, aswhimsical as Gaudi’s bright-tiled dragon house, and as passionate as the SantJordi festival’s red roses. Now all they need is to escape a lonely nanny andher charge, and a womanizing architect long enough to settle a very importantquestion.

 

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Danlolled against the doorframe, watching Lacey. He never needed an excuse, butstretching up on her toes, running her fingertips along the top of a pictureframe did very interesting things to the hemline of her little floweredsundress. Do I really get to have it all? The whole world, and her, too?

She’dscrunched up her face adorably, concentrating on the project at hand, and hehad no willpower where she was concerned, so he strolled over and wrapped hisarms around her tiny waist. He buried his face in the crook of her neck andpressed his lips to her pulse point.

“Babe?Whatcha up to?” he mumbled against her skin.

Sherelaxed into his arms and huffed a stray lock of hair out of her face. “Thewallpaper design was giving me a headache, so I thought it would be easier toclose my eyes and go by touch.”

Hedropped a kiss onto the top of her blonde head. “Clever.” Her familiar scent oflavender and citrus, and something uniquely Lacey, enveloped him, heighteninghis senses. Have we got time to check out that bed? There’s gotta be amattress somewhere under all those red brocade battering rams. Seriously, whothinks a stiff cylinder covered in scratchy material is a good idea for apillow?

Shewriggled around in his embrace and slid her arms around his neck. “This wouldbe a really easy room to hide a mic or camera in. No one would look closelyenough to try and find it.”

Hekissed her forehead. “Except us.”

Shegrinned, then pressed up on her toes and kissed his chin. “Except us.”

Herubbed his thumbs over the thin material of her sundress. “And did you? Findanything, I mean?” He hadn’t, but one never knew. Hence the standard securitycheck at every new destination.

“Noteven a bit of dust. You?”

“Nota thing. Whatever we might think of the décor, the staff certainly takes goodcare of the place.” He tugged her a little closer. “And what else did younotice?”

“There’sa camera focused on the elevator bank, and the fire stairs are at the left endof the corridor.”

“Eightdoors down.”

“Picky.”

“Hey,there was a night in Amsterdam—”

Laceyshuddered and burrowed against him. “Please don’t remind me.”

Okay…enoughteasing. “How about some dinner? Barcelona has amazing cuisine.”

Shenarrowed her eyes. “Like what?”

Hekept his tone carefully nonchalant. “Oh, all sorts of things—local seafood andgame-”

“That’scode for things I won’t touch with a ten-foot fork.”

“Whathave you got against rabbit—”

“Eww!Rabbits are for cuddling, not eating!”

“Theyare here.” She cringed and made a gagging noise.

“Orsquid?”

“Gross.Just gross.”

“So,we’re in one of the culinary wonderlands of the world and you’re gonna go lookfor a burger joint?”

“IfI have to.”

“Whatcould entice you to try a regional delicacy?”

“Nobunny rabbits and no squid. I mean it!”

“Howdo you feel about snails?”

“Howdo you feel about sleeping on the couch?”

Heeyed the stiff brocade monstrosity. “That couch?” The Chesterfield in questionwas upholstered in red, with a pattern worked in shiny gold thread. It made himitchy just looking at it from across the room. It looked as though a quarterwould bounce right off. A good sofa invited you to sink into its cushionedembrace. That thing looked like it would snigger haughtily while he slid to thefloor.

Shesmirked. “That couch.”

Heshook his head in defeat and amusement. “Fine. You win…this time.”

Shesmirked up at him, her eyes sparkling. “I usually do.”

Oh,is that how it’s gonna be? Game on. “Let’s go find you a burger. But I will findsomething local you’ll like.”

“Youcan try.

I am an author with a penchant for writing about strong,sassy ladies and the men they love (and cats!). I have a background in historicand theatrical costuming. I live in New York with my cat, Miss Toby Toebeanz,and lots and lots of books.

Destination Romance is a modern day “lady and thehighwayman” that follows the adventures of Lacey Devere and Dan Lewis as theytravel the most glamorous locations in Europe. Picture Imperfect, APerfect Brew, A Perfectly Imperfect Holiday, and Perfect by Design arecurrently available from your favorite retailer.

Falling for the Cat Guy is a sweet, small-townHalloween romance (with cats!) currently available in paperback and digitalformats. The series is heavily influenced by real life cat rescuers. MistletoeKisses for Two, Ted and Hollyn’s Christmas romance, will be on saleNovember 2nd in paperback and digital formats.

You Otter be in Pictures is a small-town summerromance with a hint of spice, on sale now, in paperback and digital formatsfrom your favorite retailer.

 

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HERE for special content and a giveaway!

Enter the Destination Romance Series Giveaway Here

 Excerpt:

Paul felt the pressure of somebody’s gaze, somebody who had just come out of the courtroom and was standing in front of the closing door. At first, he saw a dark dress and thought it was someone who had noticed the boy crying, someone who might be pausing, wondering whether to express concern or sympathy for the crying boy with the two adults holding him.

Then he noticed it was Rachel Lake, looking hard at Susan, appraising her, obviously her first sight of her lover’s wife. Paul saw that she still had that cold, slender, gracile beauty that turned men’s heads and made them stop where they stood. With a life of its own, her glossy hair still fell thickly over her shoulders. Her pale face had hardened, as if beyond feeling or suffering, but her dark eyes still blazed with that suggestion of flame seen through ice they had always had. Her lips were a defiant red, lips you had better be ready for. Paul felt a tightening in his chest, as if he had just come face to face with a loaded gun.

There was a note of pity in her face. But there was also a note of contempt, the kind of contempt you feel in the presence of  someone who just can’t manage. Susan was facing Jack and could not notice her, and Jack’s face was buried in Susan’s cheek, so he didn’t notice Rachel either.

Rachel had trained her gaze on Susan for two or three full seconds before she noticed that Bishop was with her. A glance of recognition passed between them. They looked at each other, neutrally, not betraying to anyone else that they had seen each other. But each knew the other had guessed everything that mattered.

Rachel raised a finger to her lips and shook her head. Then Bishop looked away and heard the heels of her pumps clicking down the hall.

Purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Moments-Surrender-John-Burt/dp/173536018X

This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. Jessica Rakus will be awarding a $25 Amazon/BN GC to a randomly drawn winner. Click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.

Josephine Grant lives a charmed life - a husband, three perfect children, strong bonds with family and friends in the small town where she's lived her entire life. She's the helper, the hostess, the one who always shows up. The person who can do it all.

Then the bus carrying her son's basketball team crashes, and Jo's husband and son are among the lives lost. Now she has a new identity. Widow. Single mother. Woman who lost everything. Grief begins to tear apart the place that's always been her home. Infighting among friends. Gossip and rumors. Wounds that may never heal and bonds that just might.

Now Jo has to rebuild her life, but as the person who thinks of herself as the helper, asking others to help hold her together is impossible. Jo must learn to lean on others as she learns to stand on her own.

Read an Excerpt

I handed my husband his sneakers, shoes he should have been able to keep better track of, given how often he wore them. At least he didn’t leave them where I’d trip on them, like the kids did.

“Thanks, Jo, you're a lifesaver.” He cupped my face with his free hand. My shoulders relaxed and I melted against him, forgetting all the things on my to do list. My eyes drifted shut as he kissed me, the lingering kiss we were rarely allowed, with three kids running around the house. Our daughters were spending a few hours with their grandparents, and our son was upstairs ignoring us. And even without the kids interrupting us, Steve’s cell phone pulled us apart, ringing incessantly from his pocket.

“Ignore it, Steve,” I murmured against his lips.

“It's Reston, and we have to leave anyway.” He stepped away from me and answered the phone call before sitting down to tug on the sneakers, grubby with constant wear. “We're on our way, I swear. Walking out the door as we speak.”

A lie. Despite multiple reminders we needed to leave, Matt was still in his room. Matt and Steve were due at school in ten minutes to catch the bus to this evening's basketball game. And if the head coach was calling, we had to leave the house now.

About the Author:

Jessica Rakus is a debut novelist, after many, many years of writing practice. She currently lives in Louisiana, after living briefly in seven other states.

More information available at http://JessicaRakusBooks.com

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F9QNWVDF/ref=sr_1_1
Barnes and Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/haven-strong-jessica-rakus/1148809286

 

If you're a fan of Outlander, and now want a visceral, morerealistic telling of the 1745 Jacobite Uprising, devoid of all the incessantromanticism, you will enjoy this new series!

Broadswords Over England

Crimson Empire Book 1

by James Mace

Genre: Historical Fiction

In 1745, Charles Edward Stuart, claimant prince to theunified thrones of England and Scotland, leads one final uprising to seize thecrown for his father, James Edward Stuart. This is the third attempt by James’followers, known as the Jacobites, to depose the ruling dynasty and restore theHouse of Stuart.

Though most Jacobites come from the Scottish Highlands, English, Scots, Welsh,and Irish alike fight for both sides, with few caring who occupies the throne.For many Scots, it is a clan war, a chance to settle centuries’ old scores. Forothers, it is a civil war, with red-jacketed soldiers compelled to fight theirplaid wearing fathers, brothers, or sons on the opposing side.

“The ’45,” as it is referred, is a dark chapter from a merciless age. The fateof the burgeoning British Empire, and that of the Highland people, will besettled in a crucible of cannon, musket, bayonet, and broadsword, all wroughtwith ruthless fury. Many combatants and innocents alike shall grievously sufferin its wake, with only the faintest glints of humanity. This is their story.

 

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Though they could not yet see theenemy, the Recoat defenders could certainly hear them. In the faint glow oftorch and starlight, they saw what looked to be a pair of barrels, overflowingwith God knew what, being heaved against the sally port entrance.

“They’re going to try and burn the sodding door,” Lewiswhispered with a disbelieving grin.

“I’ll sort that,” Molloy replied. “You give them a properreception once they light the barrels.”

The sergeant then hastened along the western rampart untilhe found his lone sentry. He ordered the man to bring up water from thekitchen, as much as he could carry. He then raced across the courtyard and gavethe same order to the other sentry before returning to the north wall.

Crouching low, he stared through one of the firing ports. Hecould see the shapes of men shuffling around the barrels, which as best hecould tell were a couple of feet from the door. They scraped loudly across thegravel. To his left, Molloy saw the two privates returning with a pair of waterbuckets each. They hunkered low behind the parapet, near Corporal Lewis. Theyoung NCO held his musket ready as he saw the sparks coming from the enemy’sflint and steel. A small fire soon started. It quickly grew, taking hold ofsome dry straw and kindling.

“Now,” the corporal said calmly as he shouldered his weapon.

As eight muskets unleashed a close range salvo, they couldonly clearly see the man who’d sparked the flames. The dense smoke clouded thevision of the Redcoats, who hastily began to reload. From his position,Sergeant Molloy could see the effects. The Jacobite visible in the burninglight was struck at least three times, through the guts and neck. Doublingover, he pitched forward, nearly upsetting the other barrel. Molloy saw theshape of another man clutching at his shoulder before stumbling away.

The sounds of musketry from at least two score of enemyfighters flashed and echoed in the dark, peppering the ramparts.

“Easy, lads,” Molloy said. “They can’t hit a fucking thingso long as you use the firing ports, and only when ready to fire.”

At Corporal Lewis’ command, all but one of the Redcoatsloosed another volley. This man complained about not being able to see a thingand thus stood to peer over the rampart.

“God damn it, Private Thomas!” Sergeant Molloy snapped. “Getyour fucking head down—”

He was interrupted by an even more intense return of musketfire from their enemies. Most shots smacked harmlessly into the wall or sailedover the ramparts. One, however, struck the errant private in the head. Hestood rigid for a moment before his convulsing body tumbled into the courtyardbelow.

“Tommy!” one of his mates cried out, starting to stand.

“Get back to your post!” Molloy snapped, rushing over to theyoung man at a low crouch and cuffing him across the head. “There’s nothing youcan do for him. He’s dead because of his stupid negligence. Now keep yourfucking head down and reload your damn firelock!”

As the barrels started to blaze, the two privates bearingwater buckets upended these over the rampart, all the while keeping low behindthe defences. Within seconds, the fire was completely extinguished and theRedcoats let out a cheer.

Molloy crept over to Corporal Lewis, who’d just finishedreloading his musket.

“You have this situation under control,” the sergeant said.He nodded to the water bearers. “I’ll take these two and head for the southwall.”

In the distance, the Jacobite musketry continued, albeit indiminished numbers, with no coordination.

“They won’t be getting in this way,” Lewis confirmed beforeissuing the command for his men to fire once more.

He knew their chances of hitting their enemy in the darkwere slim. Still, this gave his soldiers, especially the newest ones who’d onlybeen with the army a few months, a chance to practice their musketry drillswhile under fire.

Sergeant Molloy ordered the water bearers to follow him,along with two more privates, before descending the steps and crossing over tothe south rampart at a brisk walk. This left Corporal Lewis with five men tohold the rear entrance. Their enemy may have numbered in the hundreds, yettheir one attempt at breaching the rear entrance had proven as pathetic as itwas foolish.

The crack of musket shots came from the three men dispersedalong the south rampart. Upon ascending the steps, Molloy could just make outan enemy combatant lying face down along the steep path leading into the fort.

“They’re trying to bring up a ladder, Sergeant,” one of themen explained. This was an older private in his late twenties, who Molloytrusted to keep his mates from shooting at mere shadows.

“Only one ladder,” the sergeant replied, shaking his head inamusement.

“What’s more, the path is too steep,” the private said.“They can’t even carry the damn thing up to the wall! And with the rain soakingthe grassy slopes on the flanks, it’s too damned slippery. They won’t be comingup that way.”

“Splendid,” Molloy said.

His four accompanying soldiers took up positions at variousfiring ports. He then ordered them to reload but wait for his command to fire.He then checked his watch. It was nearly 3:30 in the morning. While the sunwould not rise for nearlyan hour, the faint glow of predawn now made it easy tospot their enemy. He counted at least a hundred gathered in a column about ahundred yards away. It was they who bore the lone ladder. Pops of musket firefrom frustrated Jacobites came from both these men and several clusters alongthe western base of the hill.

Molloy ordered a volley fired at the ladder group, as theywere closest. While waiting for the smoke to clear, and his men to reload theirmuskets, he hastened over to the eastern wall, where he saw not a single enemyfighter. Returning to his men, they fired another pair of volleys. SeveralJacobites had fallen, only to be abandoned by their companions, who fled backdown the path to return to their camp.

It was then that the sergeant stood. He ordered his men toremain hidden, lest they give away their true strength to the enemy.

“Three cheers for His Majesty, King George!” Molloy shouted,removing his hat.

James Mace is an author, historian, and life-longstoryteller. He began writing as a hobby in the early 2000s, penning physicalfitness articles for a bodybuilding website and a magazine called HardcoreMuscle.

James wrote the initial draft of his first novel, Soldier ofRome: The Legionary, as a cathartic means of escapism while serving in Iraqfrom 2004 to 2005. He has since released thirty-seven books, including fifteenAncient History best-sellers, and five South African History best-sellers. Hisworks currently span his two favourite eras: Ancient Rome and the BritishEmpire.

Outside of writing historical novels, James is a ResearchHistorian and Script Writer for the channel, Redcoat History. He maintains ablog called The Buffed Historian, sharing random fitness articles and othertales from across history. His hobbies include weightlifting, road cycling,foothills hikes, travelling across the globe, live theatre, video games, andsitting down for a game of Dungeons & Dragons with friends.

 

Website * Facebook * Instagram * Bluesky * Bookbub * Amazon * Goodreads

 

HERE for special content and a giveaway!

Enter the Broadswords Over England Giveaway Here

THE LOVE EQUATION

by Meg Benjamin

 

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GENRE: Contemporary Romance

 

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BLURB:

 

They’re both unlucky in love. Can they find the equation for theperfect mate?

 

CelineMurphy has had it. Her current boyfriend has broken up with her by text. Thatmakes three boyfriends who’ve turned out to be losers, including one who leftfor Antarctica. She’s decided to go for an online matchmaking service, but as amathematician, she wants to minimize her own faulty choices and let analgorithm make the selection.

 

At the sametime, musician Delaney Boone has come to Austin to mentor “the kid,” a popularactor turned musician. He’s also escaping a broken heart from a failedrelationship, and he’s hoping Austin will provide some new possibilities. Withthose new possibilities in mind, he goes for an online dating service.

 

Fate—ormath—matches these two unlikely lovers. But can they overcome their own doubtsto accept another chance at romance? Maybe with the help of an unlikely cupidin the form of Celine’s grandfather, The Judge, and the matchmaking skills ofsome familiar faces in Konigsburg. And an unexpected dose of cedar fever. It’sTexas y’all.

 

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Excerpt Three:

 

She turned her gaze to the ceiling, where thesunlight had begun to creep across. She hadn’t really expected Delaney to stayover. At the same time, she hadn’t been upset when he had.

 

You need to think about this, about what it allmeans.

 

She knew she did, but she didn’t really want tothink yet. Delaney was still a stranger, at least a bit. She didn’t even knowwhere he was from before Nashville. Where had he gone to school?

 

Come off it, Celine. Worrying about what collegehe’d gone to after they’d had a bedroom marathon was ridiculous. Delaney hadobviously spent a lot of time learning his craft, and given his profession,that was probably more important than four years in some music schoolsomewhere.

 

But she still had the feeling he knew more abouther than she did about him, and it made her a little uneasy. Was there a reasonhe was keeping his life story to himself?

 

“Good morning,” Delaney said, and she jumped,turning to look at him.

 

“Oh, hi.” She took a breath. “How are you?”

 

“Me?” His eyes widened slightly. “I’m fine.You?”

 

“I’m fine.” She reached out to brush back the hair that had fallen across hisforehead.

 

He gave her a slightly crooked smile. “I maywant to use your shower.”

 

“Sure,” she said automatically. “Whatever youwant. I can make some coffee.” She tried to remember what she had forbreakfast. Except it was more like brunch.

 

Brunch!

 

“Oh, God,” she said. “It’s Sunday, isn’t it?”

 

He nodded, now more wary than amused. “Yeah.”

 

“I’m supposed to have brunch with the judge,”she blurted.

 

Delaney stared at her for a long moment. “Isthat court ordered? And if so, what did you do to get that sentence?”

 

 

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Review: Celine, the mathematician, wouldfind The One by rejecting the first 37% of her matches on a dating site andchoosing the one right after it. It was all math, right? Who could go wrongwith a love equation like that?

The Love Equation equaled to amusician named Delaney Boone. A mathematician and a musician. Mmm.

Celine was pretty much like acharacter right out of “The Big Bang Theory”—intelligent, quirky, and unique.Who would’ve thought that the musician would opt for a non-traditional activitysuch as bat watching? Actually, I’d want to go check out the bats, too.

Even though Celine didn’t reallything Delaney was The One, he did make her mind work and his physicalattractiveness wasn’t bad either. Just like the gang on “The Big Bang Theory,”you can’t help but like these oddball characters. What I liked best was thatthey had a love of the minds. The math and the music lover actually had goodconversation and things in common. Celine and Delaney had goodchemistry—mentally and physically. You root for these characters all the way.

As they were both clearly fallingfor each other, Celine and Delaney each ponder and scrutinize the concept oflove. What did it mean? How do you know when you find it? These characterseventually had to stop thinking and just feel what was in their hearts.

Witty, smart, and fun! A sweet andunconventional love story.

Rating:5 stars

AUTHOR Bio and Links:

 

MegBenjamin is an award-winning author of romance and cozy mysteries. Meg’s cozymystery series, Luscious Delights from Wild Rose Press, concerns a jam-makingsleuth based in the mythical small town of Shavano, Colorado. Her Konigsburgseries is set in the Texas Hill Country and her Salt Box and Brewing Lovetrilogies are set in the Colorado Rockies (all are available from EntangledPublishing and from Meg’s indie line). Along with romance and cozies, Meg isalso the author of the paranormal Ramos Family trilogy from Berkley InterMixand the Folk trilogy from Meg’s indie line. Meg’s books have won numerousawards, including an EPIC Award, a Romantic Times Reviewers’ Choice Award, theHolt Medallion from Virginia Romance Writers, the Beanpot Award from the NewEngland  Romance Writers, the Carly CrownJewel of Books from the Mid-America Romance Authors, and the Award ofExcellence from Colorado Romance Writers.

 

SocialMedia Links:

Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/meg.benjamin1/ (personal)

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063609878239(author)

 

Instagram:@meg_benjamin

 

Threads:https://www.threads.net/@meg_benjamin

 

BlueSky:https://bsky.app/profile/meg-benjamin.bsky.social

 

Goodreads:https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/2869971.Meg_Benjamin

 

Bookbub:https://www.bookbub.com/profile/meg-benjamin

 

Amazon:https://www.amazon.com/stores/Meg-Benjamin/author/B0030F12FY?ref=ap_rdr&store_ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true

 

YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@megbenjamin1396

 

Website:http://www.MegBenjamin.com/

 

 

 

Amazonbuy link: https://bit.ly/3ZJNg4S

 

 

 

 

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GIVEAWAY INFORMATION 

Meg Benjamin will be awarding a $15 Amazon/BN giftcard to a randomly drawn winner.

 

EDWIN STEELSIDE

by Bradford Bennett

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GENRE: Literary Thriller

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BLURB:

Unsolvable murders, and innocent suspects. It's time to bring in Steelside.

The Final Scene

Two talented performers take center stage for a heart-wrenching love song. Their soaring voices deliver a dramatic aria for a scene that will never be surpassed. Or will it?

The Marathon Murder

Great human sports achievements fill our history books with superhuman feats. Then comes one runner to break all the records, plus anyone else in his way.

The Pharmacy Incident

Advancing the science of medicine gives us miracle cures for life-saving treatments. Now Ed is hired to look into their dark closets and finds—do we trust them too much?

There's Death in Texas

A deadly killer stalks the state of Texas, and no one knows he's coming except for fate and a crack detective. Now, Ed must find the path to stop one of the most deadly killers in North American history.

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Excerpt Two:

THE MARATHON MURDER

Andre was late. He rushed into the house, grabbed his TV remote, and clicked it on. A runner on a track appeared. “He’s on the final straightaway,” a frantic announcer shouted. “Only a hundred yards to the finish…sixty yards…forty yards…twenty yards… He’s crossed the tape!” 

The runner staggered to a stop, hands on his knees, gasping to catch his breath. A loud, cheering crowd soon drowned out the broadcast. 

“Attention, ladies and gentlemen,” the announcer returned, his voice echoing throughout the stadium. “I now have the official results.” The crowd finally quieted. 

“Hermando Montregalo has just broken the world’s marathon record by six minutes, forty-eight seconds!” A roar burst out from the stadium. The exhausted runner raised his arms in victory— cheering fans on the field swarmed around him in a frenzy of admiration. 

The camera cut to the announcer in the booth. “Still yet to appear on this final straightaway,” he went on, “is the now ex-world champion, Nigerian Ligajah Lambafa. He won’t reach this finish for another incredible six minutes!” The reporter removed his glasses and addressed the camera. 

“Sports fans!” he announced. “This astonishing record will shock the track and field world into disbelief. Today, we just witnessed an unbelievable human achievement.” 

Andre switched off the broadcast, threw the remote down, and stormed from the room.

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AUTHOR Bio and Links:

Brad lives with his wife, Norrie, in Oliver, BC, Canada's wine capital in the heart of the Okanagan Valley. Norrie loves visiting all the many grape wineries there. Alas, Brad can't drink wine; he's allergic to sulphates. "I don't like the damn stuff anyway," Brad says. "Just give me a good dark ale." He is a retired art director and designer, now writer. He has published three short stories, which have won placement in a book of short stories three years in a row. 

Brad was born in Oregon and grew up in the Willamette Valley. Later, as an adult, after art training, he spent fifteen years working in his own studio in Dallas, Texas. Brad then moved to Canada and worked for two major Canadian ad agencies as a creative art director. There, he ventured into working on TV ads—it was gruelling but fun. His client was Alberta's CP hotels, then he worked for a dairy, producing ice cream. A dream job for sure. Later, Brad opened his own freelance design studio. But he always wanted to write fiction stories. So, on retirement, he has written three books. 

This one, based on Ed Steelside, is his favourite. 

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/50929359.Bradford_Bennett

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GIVEAWAY INFORMATION and RAFFLECOPTER CODE

Bradford Bennett will be awarding a $10 Amazon/BN gift card to a randomly drawn winner.