What do you think?
The Medicine Man #1
She Steals My Breath
SHE STEALS MY BREATH
Her Beauty Takes His Breath Away… Only She Can Restore It
Eagle Heart of the Blackfoot Nation has not come to the trading post, Fort Union, to trade, but to find his missing brother. The medicine man has never seen a white woman, but, when she walks into the room, her beauty literally steals his breath.
Laylah McIntosh has assets besides beauty that make her valuable to her father, the fort's her skill with numbers, her photographic memory and her knowledge of the sign language used by all the tribes. But, when she’s injured and caught in a fierce blizzard, it is Eagle Heart, alone, who rescues her.
Forced into each other's company, their attraction deepens. But a union between them is forbidden in both their worlds.
Can their love find a way to survive? Or will their differences separate them forever?
Sensuous romance and a love written in the stars could cause a gal to go West in search of love and adventure.
Her Beauty Takes His Breath Away… Only She Can Restore It
Eagle Heart of the Blackfoot Nation has not come to the trading post, Fort Union, to trade, but to find his missing brother. The medicine man has never seen a white woman, but, when she walks into the room, her beauty literally steals his breath.
Laylah McIntosh has assets besides beauty that make her valuable to her father, the fort's her skill with numbers, her photographic memory and her knowledge of the sign language used by all the tribes. But, when she’s injured and caught in a fierce blizzard, it is Eagle Heart, alone, who rescues her.
Forced into each other's company, their attraction deepens. But a union between them is forbidden in both their worlds.
Can their love find a way to survive? Or will their differences separate them forever?
Sensuous romance and a love written in the stars could cause a gal to go West in search of love and adventure.
282 pages, Paperback
Published March 22, 2022
About the author
Karen Kay
55 books986 followersBestselling author of American Historical Romance, KAREN KAY is a multi-published author of Native American Historical Romance. She has been praised by reviewers and fans alike for bringing insights into the everyday life of the American Indian culture of the past.
Although there are other authors who write under the pen name of Karen Kay, this author's books concern only Historical Native American Romance.
As Reviewer, Suzanne Tucker, once wrote, “Ms. Kay never fails to capture the pride, the passion and the spirit of the American Indian…"
KAREN KAY's great grandmother was Choctaw, and she is adopted Blackfeet. Ms. Kay is honored to be able to write about the rich culture of a people who gave this country so much.
“With the power of romance, I hope to bring about an awareness of the American Indian’s concept of honor, and what it meant to live as free men and free women. There are some things that should never be forgotten.”
Find Karen Kay online at www.novels-by-karenkay.com.
Although there are other authors who write under the pen name of Karen Kay, this author's books concern only Historical Native American Romance.
As Reviewer, Suzanne Tucker, once wrote, “Ms. Kay never fails to capture the pride, the passion and the spirit of the American Indian…"
KAREN KAY's great grandmother was Choctaw, and she is adopted Blackfeet. Ms. Kay is honored to be able to write about the rich culture of a people who gave this country so much.
“With the power of romance, I hope to bring about an awareness of the American Indian’s concept of honor, and what it meant to live as free men and free women. There are some things that should never be forgotten.”
Find Karen Kay online at www.novels-by-karenkay.com.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
March 6, 2024
Captivating story!
I really enjoyed this story. I was captivated by it from the beginning. I loved Laylah's spirit and big heart. Eagle Heart was kind and so smart. I loved finding out about all of his special gifts. Their time together in the storm wss fascinating, and I enjoyed how their feelings grew for one another. This story was very good.
I really enjoyed this story. I was captivated by it from the beginning. I loved Laylah's spirit and big heart. Eagle Heart was kind and so smart. I loved finding out about all of his special gifts. Their time together in the storm wss fascinating, and I enjoyed how their feelings grew for one another. This story was very good.
August 1, 2022
This is a love story of 2 people from completely different backgrounds in the mid 1800’s and all the fun that goes with it, 2 groups races( if we're aloud to say that now that) they do not trust each other the groups but it love struck hero’s.
A native American and a white settler one working for her Dad the other selling his wares at the trading pist a Fort were the cowboys can keep the weapons they have the others have to hand them in on arrival or are refused entry. As there are several different native Americans groups this was probably wise by maybe all should surrender their weapons but that's very much a side issue.
So the story is fun for the most part as they get to know each other due to a storm, the heroine went for a ride with her Fiancée a nasty man I feel its safe to say or a coward if he wasn't then the story wouldn't work I believe. But when she who takes his breath away falls from her mount he goes to get “help” but the one who funds her is obviously out hero and a medicine man from the Blackfeet Tribe.
As it set in the 1830s the language used is that which you would use in that time this may offend some people but it makes it a more authentic read. The characters are great have the evil dad he's doing everything he can to protect his daughter from what he believes is a savage these days we’d call uneducated.
The different beliefs and different groups of people coming to this story quite a lot and I love learning a little bit about different peoples power represented so it's a bit of education as well as escapismI hope you enjoy it as well.
A native American and a white settler one working for her Dad the other selling his wares at the trading pist a Fort were the cowboys can keep the weapons they have the others have to hand them in on arrival or are refused entry. As there are several different native Americans groups this was probably wise by maybe all should surrender their weapons but that's very much a side issue.
So the story is fun for the most part as they get to know each other due to a storm, the heroine went for a ride with her Fiancée a nasty man I feel its safe to say or a coward if he wasn't then the story wouldn't work I believe. But when she who takes his breath away falls from her mount he goes to get “help” but the one who funds her is obviously out hero and a medicine man from the Blackfeet Tribe.
As it set in the 1830s the language used is that which you would use in that time this may offend some people but it makes it a more authentic read. The characters are great have the evil dad he's doing everything he can to protect his daughter from what he believes is a savage these days we’d call uneducated.
The different beliefs and different groups of people coming to this story quite a lot and I love learning a little bit about different peoples power represented so it's a bit of education as well as escapismI hope you enjoy it as well.
January 27, 2024
Sweet male protagonist
I really love our two protagonists. Theirs is a very sweet love - and that’s what I enjoy reading. And there’s some smut too, but we don’t really get into the details. I like reading smut, but only if it’s well done. If Ms. Kay isn’t comfortable writing those scenes, then this is a good compromise.
After reading several of Karen Kay’s books now, I realize that I love her ideas, and so far all the men and women in her Medicine Men series. However, a recurrence I’ve noticed is that the first half of the books, we go in endless circles with our two main leads. It often feels like we are reading the same few paragraphs copied and pasted again and again with little variation for half the pages of the novel. If that time were instead taken to further develop the plot or romance, that would make these books a thousand times better.
Overall, a good read within this genre.
I really love our two protagonists. Theirs is a very sweet love - and that’s what I enjoy reading. And there’s some smut too, but we don’t really get into the details. I like reading smut, but only if it’s well done. If Ms. Kay isn’t comfortable writing those scenes, then this is a good compromise.
After reading several of Karen Kay’s books now, I realize that I love her ideas, and so far all the men and women in her Medicine Men series. However, a recurrence I’ve noticed is that the first half of the books, we go in endless circles with our two main leads. It often feels like we are reading the same few paragraphs copied and pasted again and again with little variation for half the pages of the novel. If that time were instead taken to further develop the plot or romance, that would make these books a thousand times better.
Overall, a good read within this genre.
April 2, 2022
United States on April 2, 2022
I was given a copy of this book to read and review. I was so entranced by the immediate attraction of Eagle Heart and She-steals-my-breath, that I hated to have to put the book down to do necessary things like cook, eat, wash clothes, etc. I just wanted to read, read, read! There’s was such a pure love from the very beginning, and it reminded me of mine and my husband’s love ♥️ Eagle Heart was so handsome, so brave, and he saved She-steals-my breath’s life during a blizzard, when the man she was engaged to didn’t even put forth an effort to try to save her life. Had it not been for Eagle Heart, she most assuredly would have died! I thoroughly enjoyed this book of intense, pure love, although some may be a little uncomfortable with the lovemaking scenes. However, I thought they were very tastefully written. I was so fascinated by the way this couple communicated: body, soul, and mind. There were lots of special treats, too, like Little People, Big People, Wolf Sister, etc., that you will really enjoy reading about. I loved the book and I hope you get it and read it for yourself and love it as much as I did. Karen Kay really can write about our first original Americans/ Native American’s ways of respecting the earth, living creatures and fellow human beings. ♥️♥️♥️
I was given a copy of this book to read and review. I was so entranced by the immediate attraction of Eagle Heart and She-steals-my-breath, that I hated to have to put the book down to do necessary things like cook, eat, wash clothes, etc. I just wanted to read, read, read! There’s was such a pure love from the very beginning, and it reminded me of mine and my husband’s love ♥️ Eagle Heart was so handsome, so brave, and he saved She-steals-my breath’s life during a blizzard, when the man she was engaged to didn’t even put forth an effort to try to save her life. Had it not been for Eagle Heart, she most assuredly would have died! I thoroughly enjoyed this book of intense, pure love, although some may be a little uncomfortable with the lovemaking scenes. However, I thought they were very tastefully written. I was so fascinated by the way this couple communicated: body, soul, and mind. There were lots of special treats, too, like Little People, Big People, Wolf Sister, etc., that you will really enjoy reading about. I loved the book and I hope you get it and read it for yourself and love it as much as I did. Karen Kay really can write about our first original Americans/ Native American’s ways of respecting the earth, living creatures and fellow human beings. ♥️♥️♥️
September 22, 2024
Eagle Heart comes to Fort Union to search for his brother. He has never seen a white woman but when Laylah McIntosh walks into the room, he finds himself entranced. She literally steals his breath. Laylah has more value than just her beauty. She is skilled with numbers, has a photographic memory and is adept at sign language. When she is injured and left in a snow storm while her fiancée goes for help, it is Eagle Heart who comes to her rescue. Alone together while a brutal snow storm rages outside their shelter built by Eagle Heart, the two find themselves falling in love. But can these two have a future when they come from different backgrounds?
What a romantic story! When none of the men in her life were willing to go and bring her back, Eagle Heart comes to her rescue. The things he does and the respect he shows her make this a sigh worthy book. With time together, their love grows and grows, but he never takes advantage of her. He does what he needs to do to keep her alive and healthy. We all want an Eagle Heart in our lives. Pick this one and be prepared to be entranced. It is an incredible story.
I received an ARC of this book and this is my personal opinion.
What a romantic story! When none of the men in her life were willing to go and bring her back, Eagle Heart comes to her rescue. The things he does and the respect he shows her make this a sigh worthy book. With time together, their love grows and grows, but he never takes advantage of her. He does what he needs to do to keep her alive and healthy. We all want an Eagle Heart in our lives. Pick this one and be prepared to be entranced. It is an incredible story.
I received an ARC of this book and this is my personal opinion.
September 2, 2026
This was a refreshing approach to romance, featuring a Native American man and a white woman. I enjoyed their directness and communication as well as the respectful approach to intimacy. I also enjoyed some of the spiritual aspects (such as the she-wolf and the ability to ‘see’ others). However, a number of things didn’t hold together well for me, starting with the game they played while in forced proximity (the first half of the book), which appeared to be a game of chance rather than one that he has “never lost.” The Little People didn’t seem necessary and her injuries seem to have been forgotten in the second half of the book (as she’s doing things she would not be able to do with a broken arm). Some characters felt cliché (like her father) and the events of the climax (when they found his brother and a Crow woman and baby) felt… I don’t know… lacking depth, maybe? The whole mission was finding his brother and then there was nothing about his brother… P.S. There's a newer cover that is just gorgeous.
March 27, 2022
She Stills my Breath, the first book in The Medicine Man series will keep your attention from the moment you begin the journey with Layla and Eagle Heart until the very end! Layla is thrown from her horse and is injured and is unable to make it back to the fort and is caught in a blizzard is on the verge of death when Eagle Heart finds her. Eagle Heart knew the white woman should not go riding when a blizzard would soon be upon them, but when he realizes she is out there alone he sets out to find her. Two individuals of different worlds are alone and soon they feel their souls are connected but the outside world will try to separate them.
Karen Kay has given readers a book that is well-written and well-paced, filled it with great cast of characters that come off the pages and pull you into this emotional ride that keeps you involved until the very end, sensual romance, heartfelt dialogue with an enjoyable plot that brings this read together perfectly!
Karen Kay has given readers a book that is well-written and well-paced, filled it with great cast of characters that come off the pages and pull you into this emotional ride that keeps you involved until the very end, sensual romance, heartfelt dialogue with an enjoyable plot that brings this read together perfectly!
March 23, 2022
I love Historical Romance and who doesn’t find an interracial romance fascinating. Karen Kay is an expert at weaving fascinating stories that not only are swoon-worthy but teach the reader about the Native American culture. I’ve read six others of her books and with each, I’ve learned something new about the lifestyle of various tribes. She Steals My Breath is book # 1 of the Medicine Men Series. This story is steeped in more of the spiritual beliefs and culture of the Blackfoot tribe than previous books I’ve read. It has a magical quality. And the love between Eagle Heart and Layla kept me turning the pages. The culture of the Blackfeet dictated how he must respond to her. It was like reading about a chivalrous knight rescuing a damsel in distress and finding his soulmate. Kay added the first chapter of book # 2 to the end and I can’t wait to read that one too.
April 4, 2022
Hello everyone
If you are reading this review I want you to know that the author Karen Kay is my most favorite historical Native American romance writer! I have read every one of her books and this latest story has simply continued to reflect why she is my favorite romance author!
This story is very intriguing and I couldn’t put it down! I always love her characters. As I read I always picture what they look like. Their emotions are always mine as I read! Never be without a box of tissues because at times you’ll have tears streaming down your face. You will also giggle!
Get this book and I bet you’ll end up reading all of Karen Kay’s stories!
HAPPY READING!
Arlene ( Butterfly Lover)
If you are reading this review I want you to know that the author Karen Kay is my most favorite historical Native American romance writer! I have read every one of her books and this latest story has simply continued to reflect why she is my favorite romance author!
This story is very intriguing and I couldn’t put it down! I always love her characters. As I read I always picture what they look like. Their emotions are always mine as I read! Never be without a box of tissues because at times you’ll have tears streaming down your face. You will also giggle!
Get this book and I bet you’ll end up reading all of Karen Kay’s stories!
HAPPY READING!
Arlene ( Butterfly Lover)
March 30, 2022
A beautifully told American Indian love story.
Every time I read one of Karen Kay’s books, I come away feeling I have learned so much. Not only are her books informative, they are also highly entertaining. I feel this is one of her best yet. I can’t wait to read more in the Medicine Men series.
In this book, we see how two people, of different cultures, defy the odds to be together. It will take courage, strength and trust for Eagle Heart and Laylah to make their new life together as they travel across the wild lands of Montana in search of Eagle Heart’s brother, while growing more in love every day and trying to hide from their enemies.
Every time I read one of Karen Kay’s books, I come away feeling I have learned so much. Not only are her books informative, they are also highly entertaining. I feel this is one of her best yet. I can’t wait to read more in the Medicine Men series.
In this book, we see how two people, of different cultures, defy the odds to be together. It will take courage, strength and trust for Eagle Heart and Laylah to make their new life together as they travel across the wild lands of Montana in search of Eagle Heart’s brother, while growing more in love every day and trying to hide from their enemies.
May 10, 2022
I was thrilled to see Karen Kay had written a new Native American book. She Steals My Breath is the first book in her new The Medicine Book series. I have missed these books as it takes you back to time that many have forgotten. Times during the mid-1800’s were so different from today. I love seeing two different cultures brought together and learn so much about life during these times. Ms. Kay brilliantly brings to life the emotions and the obstacles Layla and Eagle Heart faced as they traversed the land and fell more in love by the day. I can’t say enough about this book and look forward to the next book in the series.
June 6, 2024
A TRULY HEARTWARMING AND AMAZING STORY!!!
I have ENJOYED THIS BOOK MORE THAN WORDS CAN EVER EXPRESS!!! AS I WIPE TEARS OF HAPPINESS FROM MY EYES, I WANT TO THANK THIS AMAZING AUTHOR, Karen Kay, for this BEAUTIFUL LOVE STORY THAT HAS MEANT SO MUCH TO ME!!! The LOVE between Eagle heart and Laylah truly spoke to me and I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK TO EVERYONE WHO LOVES AN ADVENTURE, AND A STORY OF A GREAT LOVE THAT WAS "tested" and survived all the challenges that had to be overcome, as these two wonderful characters faced everything that they did, so they could be together. I Can't wait to start reading the next book in this series, by this ABSOLUTELY WONDERFUL AUTHOR!!!
I have ENJOYED THIS BOOK MORE THAN WORDS CAN EVER EXPRESS!!! AS I WIPE TEARS OF HAPPINESS FROM MY EYES, I WANT TO THANK THIS AMAZING AUTHOR, Karen Kay, for this BEAUTIFUL LOVE STORY THAT HAS MEANT SO MUCH TO ME!!! The LOVE between Eagle heart and Laylah truly spoke to me and I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK TO EVERYONE WHO LOVES AN ADVENTURE, AND A STORY OF A GREAT LOVE THAT WAS "tested" and survived all the challenges that had to be overcome, as these two wonderful characters faced everything that they did, so they could be together. I Can't wait to start reading the next book in this series, by this ABSOLUTELY WONDERFUL AUTHOR!!!
March 5, 2024
A look into the lives of the very first People.
A wonderful look at the frontier life and the original people. There are not many fictional books about American Indians as well researched and fairly factual about that way of life. It was very difficult compared to our easy life now. And to describe a natural forest beautifully so you can almost smell and feel the breeze sighing in the trees! Wonderful,!
A wonderful look at the frontier life and the original people. There are not many fictional books about American Indians as well researched and fairly factual about that way of life. It was very difficult compared to our easy life now. And to describe a natural forest beautifully so you can almost smell and feel the breeze sighing in the trees! Wonderful,!
August 24, 2023
I really loved the story and the characters . The spirit talking was a tad weird for me but other than that I loved it. I love reading about natives and I just happened upon this author on Amazon and I’m really just glad I did. Already ordered the next two books in this series and cannot wait to start reading what’s next .
February 15, 2024
Good book on strength of love and family
A little historical fiction with romance mixed in, and you get an enchanting story.
Eagle Heart, a Blackfoot Indian and Laylah (aka Steals-my-breath-away), become soul-mates after he saves her from death. Then, it becomes a search for his brother and an escape from Laylah's father.
Very enjoyable book.
A little historical fiction with romance mixed in, and you get an enchanting story.
Eagle Heart, a Blackfoot Indian and Laylah (aka Steals-my-breath-away), become soul-mates after he saves her from death. Then, it becomes a search for his brother and an escape from Laylah's father.
Very enjoyable book.
March 3, 2024
True love can't be stopped!
Laylah and Eagle Heart were from different cultures. Their story is about when two people find true love and it doesn't matter if they are total from different cultures.
This was a very interesting story. I really enjoyed their story about all the obstacles in their way.
This is my honest review.
Laylah and Eagle Heart were from different cultures. Their story is about when two people find true love and it doesn't matter if they are total from different cultures.
This was a very interesting story. I really enjoyed their story about all the obstacles in their way.
This is my honest review.
May 6, 2024
A Historical Romance Comes To Life...
I read this series out of order but loved books 2&3 so much I really wanted to come back and read book 1! So happy I did! I absolutely loved Eagle Heart & Layla's story! A beautiful journey unfolds for these two! This author has a true gift for story telling!
I read this series out of order but loved books 2&3 so much I really wanted to come back and read book 1! So happy I did! I absolutely loved Eagle Heart & Layla's story! A beautiful journey unfolds for these two! This author has a true gift for story telling!
January 12, 2025
LOVE & MYSTICAL CREATURES
I liked Laylah and Eagle Heart because they were smart you could feel their love for one another. But the games they played to pass the time went on and on. I eventually became bored so I just skimmed those pages even though you do learn more about Laylah and Eagle Heart beliefs. I really enjoyed the mystical side you added to the story.
I liked Laylah and Eagle Heart because they were smart you could feel their love for one another. But the games they played to pass the time went on and on. I eventually became bored so I just skimmed those pages even though you do learn more about Laylah and Eagle Heart beliefs. I really enjoyed the mystical side you added to the story.
March 26, 2022
Steals my breath
Really enjoyed this book but l have enjoyed Karen's books this one was a bit different it's twists and turns from the start. It is a lovely read. If you like stories with first people you Will love Karen's books the only thing is waiting for the next title.
Really enjoyed this book but l have enjoyed Karen's books this one was a bit different it's twists and turns from the start. It is a lovely read. If you like stories with first people you Will love Karen's books the only thing is waiting for the next title.
May 21, 2022
I liked it, it was something for an Indian to have mind share with wolves and others, and soon found love. It was awesome but reason for 4 stars is because I had a hard time trying to read Indian Blackfoot language.
January 3, 2023
Great Love
I loved how two people overcame the differences in their cultures to find true love. Many challenges that they faced was met with determination to overcome them. True love always wins.
I loved how two people overcame the differences in their cultures to find true love. Many challenges that they faced was met with determination to overcome them. True love always wins.
January 23, 2024
She Steals My Breath
This book was ok, but at times it seemed to go back in forth in their conversations. This really wore me out. Get on with the story, you know what I mean? All in all, the book was not boring, I kept on wanting to read just to know the ending. J💟
This book was ok, but at times it seemed to go back in forth in their conversations. This really wore me out. Get on with the story, you know what I mean? All in all, the book was not boring, I kept on wanting to read just to know the ending. J💟
April 7, 2024
well
Starts out well, interesting, holds your attention. But then it’s all about conversations, love making, and nature descriptions. The last chapter was not too bad. But overall, it’s a boring story.
Starts out well, interesting, holds your attention. But then it’s all about conversations, love making, and nature descriptions. The last chapter was not too bad. But overall, it’s a boring story.
August 11, 2025
3.5 🌟
Posponia mucho esta lectura ya que solo hay diálogos en un lugar en especifico, deseaba ver más panoramas, y llegaba en aburrirme por lo mismo, sin embargo, aprendes mucho de la cultura de los "Blackfoot" y como estos se comunicaban entre sí. 🌹
Posponia mucho esta lectura ya que solo hay diálogos en un lugar en especifico, deseaba ver más panoramas, y llegaba en aburrirme por lo mismo, sin embargo, aprendes mucho de la cultura de los "Blackfoot" y como estos se comunicaban entre sí. 🌹
June 8, 2026
3.5⭐️ What a lovely story. Action and romance and history. Loved Laylah and Eagle Heart's story! Haven't read this author in a long time and happy to see she's still publishing Native American romance
January 21, 2023
Intriguing
Eagle Heart and Layla have an indescribable connection from the very start. They fit together like puzzle pieces. True soul mates forever
Eagle Heart and Layla have an indescribable connection from the very start. They fit together like puzzle pieces. True soul mates forever
August 21, 2023
Beautiful
I truly loved this book. A great read. The character were the best.the story line wonderful. I didn't want to stop reading. A must read. Keep up the great work.
I truly loved this book. A great read. The character were the best.the story line wonderful. I didn't want to stop reading. A must read. Keep up the great work.
September 16, 2023
Good intertain
Love and religious beliefs was wonderful. Love little people's and big people's. The love between two was amazing. Amy one can read. Rated good.
Love and religious beliefs was wonderful. Love little people's and big people's. The love between two was amazing. Amy one can read. Rated good.
June 1, 2024
Hokey
I did not finish this book. It was a little to goofy to suit me. Some authors have a way with words other's not so much.really disappointed with it.
I did not finish this book. It was a little to goofy to suit me. Some authors have a way with words other's not so much.really disappointed with it.
July 19, 2024
Juvenile. I couldn't get past the "gestures" conversation.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews