Books by Maureen McKade/Maura McKenzie

March 2008
Berkley Publishing
ISBN-10: 0-425-22059-1
ISBN-13: 978-0-425-22059-7

"As she completes the Forrester Brothers trilogy McKade plays on the heartstrings like a virtuoso.  Her beautiful, sensual love stories, tough, tender heroes and strong heroines light up the western genre.  Her powerful voice resonates with readers in that special way that makes her books keepers." -- Kathe Robin, RT BookClub

Winner of the Romantic Times Reviewers' Choice Award in the American set historical category

K.I.S.S. Award from Romantic Times BookClub!!
"Get ready to have A REASON TO BELIEVE as Maureen McKade's Rye Forrester rides into your heart."

1/2

A new historical western romance.

The story of Rye Forrester, Creede's youngest brother.

Read the first chapter

Lonely and filled with regrets, Dulcie McDaniels struggles to provide a decent life for her daughter. Usually shunned by proper folks, she's suspicious of Rye Forrester, a drifter offering to work for his keep. But after he helps harvest the crop, her feelings toward the handsome stranger turn into a consuming passion. But Rye has his own secrets. When their tragic pasts catch up with them, these two wounded souls must fight for the love that will keep them together for a lifetime.

"Maureen McKade has brought us a wonderful tale of two tortured souls who needs to learn to trust before they can learn to love.  One of the most captivating historical westerns you will read!"
-- Nadine St. Denis, www.romancejunkies.com

"McKade's stunning, emotional and gripping story of the Forrester brothers is a lot like Francine Rivers' classic westerns.  She tells her story honestly and realistically yet with strong faith in the inherent goodness of man.  Keep a hankie nearby and a place on your keeper shelf for this one."
- Kathe Robin
RT BookClub

"Life on the frontier in the 1860s wasn't easy for anyone, let alone a woman with a small child.  Ms. McKade does an excellent job of portraying just that.  The murder, lynching, and Rye's guilty secret, together with Dulcie's efforts to cope and the deepening feelings the two fight against, make for a terrific read.  Oh, and with two children, one an orphaned heartbreaker, A REASON TO BELIEVE is a riveting Western romance."
-- Jane Bowers
Romance Reviews

"Maureen McKade makes us care about her characters, despite their weaknesses and because of their fortitude.  She transports us into their world using details that allow the reader to experience the rhythm and struggles of frontier farm life.  A REASON TO BELIEVE is an inspiring, passionate story that kept me turning the pages.  I can't wait to read the next book in this series about the Forrester brothers."
-- Carol
Love Western Romances Book Reviews

A historical western by Maureen McKade

Read Laurel's Diary

How could I refuse the wish of a dying man?

May 30, 1865:  During the Civil War, I watched over too many young boys in the hospital, comforting them as they cried out for those they loved, as they whispered their final thoughts to me.  Keeping a record of their names, families, and last words seemed a small tribute to their sacrifice--until the war ended, and I found a new mission in life.  I would visit the loved ones of those poor soldiers and deliver their messages, so that some comfort could be found even in grief...

But Laurel Covey never expected to find a man like Creede Forrester--an ex-gunslinger who rode all the way from Texas to Virginia in the hope of finding his son, and ended up saving her from a band of ruffians.  It pains her deeply to tell him of his boy's death, and she believes that in his heart, Creede blames himself for driving his son away.  But there is something more to this rugged, weary man.  Something that draws Laurel closer to him...something she cannot resist...

4 1/2 Stars!!  TOP PICK! 

"McKade enthralls readers with a story short in length but big in impact that takes your breath away with its intense emotions and insight into the human heart, reminiscent of Francine Rivers.  Brava to the author for being unafraid to put the pain of war and the sacrifice of so many on the page.  She let us cry and heal with her characters."
-- Kathe Robin, RT BookClub

K.I.S.S. Award Winner!!!

"Creede Forrester needs A Reason to Live and that's what Maureen McKade gives him--the love of a woman who needs him as much as he needs her."

Top

"I couldn't put down A REASON TO LIVE.  From the first page McKade's characters made me care for them.  Maureen McKade shows the mark of a master storyteller by creating a world I've never been to and making me feel like I'm coming home as I turn the pages."
-- Jodi Thomas, author of The Texan's Reward

BLUE RIBBON RATING: 5

"Maureen McKade has written another engaging western historical romance that once again proves her exceptional writing talent.  A REASON TO LIVE has a strong story line, characters that are both likable and secondary characters that keep the story moving at a good flow.  The romance is both emotional and believable which makes the story come alive.  A REASON TO LIVE is a book I would highly recommend and it is definitely going on my keeper shelf."
--RomanceJunkies.com

"Maureen McKade writes exceptional romance, certain to touch your heart.  A Reason to Live is absolutely wonderful!  It resonates with heartfelt emotion and is a powerful, poignant tribute to love, sacrifice and courage, its premise timeless.  Warning:  Keep a hanky handy."
--Lorraine Heath, author of Promise Me Forever

"A REASON TO LIVE is part adventure and all romance.  It's a wonderful, uplifting tale that has a few surprises for readers, not to mention a tear or two."
--Jani Brooks, Romance Reviews Today

Romantic suspense by Maureen McKade

Chicago ADA Olivia Kincaid was dedicated to getting violent criminals off the streets--until a brutal assault nearly took her life.  Now, with her world shattered, she retreats to her father's Colorado ranch, hoping to reclaim some lost piece of herself.

Even here she can't feel safe, though--because her father has created a work-release program that allows convicted felons to roam freely about the ranch.  But when one of the men arouses a desire she thought was long dead, her deepest convictions are turned upside down.  Six years ago, Hank Elliot was imprisoned for a crime he says he didn't commit.  Olivia has heard countless criminals claim their innocence.  Still, something about the proud, determined man makes her want to believe him.

But when a local woman is found murdered and suspicion falls on Hank, not even Olivia is sure whether the man who's broken through her defenses is a cold-blooded killer.

"Forgiveness and trust are key themes in this new tense and suspenseful story. McKade's characters are real, vibrant and filled with contradictions. This is pure human drama. 4 Stars!"
-- Jill M. Smith, RT BookClub

"This is a very well-written book that will appeal to readers of romantic suspense. "
-- Jeri Neal, The Romance Readers' Connection

Top

"An edge of your seat romantic suspense"
"CONVICTIONS is a fantastic, fast paced read. Maureen McKade has done a superior job in providing twists and turns that keep you on edge, until the end. A true romantic suspense with a blend of contemporary western will appeal to readers of all genres. Don't miss this one!"
-- Tami Sutton, The Best Reviews

"CONVICTIONS is a fascinating romantic suspense thriller...   fans will appreciate Maureen McKade's marvelous tale starring two people in love though both knows the other is wrong for them."
-- Harriet Klausner, The Best Reviews

"CONVICTIONS is an attention grabbing story from page one, and maintains a smooth pace of emotions and suspense throughout the book. The romance between a scarred – and scared – heroine and a strong, flawed hero is played out beautifully. Interesting subplots with exceptional characters keep this outstanding story progressing rapidly. Maureen McKade has gifted the reader with a powerful tale completely complemented by its superb cast."
-- Betty Cox, NovelTalk.com

"Ms. McKade’s second romantic suspense effort has cemented her as a storyteller in this genre. CONVICTIONS is a read that will challenge the reader at the same time entertain."
-- Luv2readinBruxelles

Romantic suspense by Maureen McKade

Her work has been hailed as "exceptionally well written" (Rendezvous) and a "triumph" (Midwest Book Review). Now Maureen McKade has taken a bold new step and written a dazzling novel of romance and suspense that will thrill her fans and win her many more...

When police officer Paddy Hawkins is found dead in his bedroom with a revolver in his hand and a note on the nightstand, all the evidence points to suicide. Case closed--except to one man. Ex-Army Ranger Nick Sirocco was the last person to hear from Paddy. And the phone message that Paddy left him didn't sound like a man about to take his own life. To find out what happened to his friend, Nick will turn to the one woman he knows he can trust...

Ex-cop Danni Hawkins didn't buy that her father was murdered--until she heard his final message. Now, with Nick's help, she must uncover the tracks left behind by an elusive killer. She can't afford do let herself get distracted by the steamy attraction between her and Nick.

But as their trail takes them deeper into the heart of corruption, Danni realizes the killer maybe closer than she ever thought possible...

Top

 

"Maureen McKade has written many books, but AROUSE SUSPICION is her first venture into the romantic suspense arena. Exciting, sexy, humorous, and a real page-turner are just a few of the words that describe this terrific story. Her characters are real and strong; the story moves along at a quick pace. Congratulations to Ms. McKade on writing a wonderful book. "
 -- Brooke Wills, RomanceJunkies.com

2005 RITA© Finalist for Best Long Historical

With her "gift for making the West come alive," Maureen McKade returns to America's vast expanses, where a desperate woman and a weary ex-soldier come together on a journey of the heart...

It has been seven years since Emma Hartwell's capture by a tribe of the Lakota Sioux.  But her recent rescue by the US Cavalry feels like anything but salvation.  She has been forced to leave behind her beloved child, and return to the family who can't accept her, only to be shunned by the townspeople as an outcast.  Emma is haunted by her life with the Elk tribe.  She sets off on a dangerous journey, fueled by a fierce love of her son and fears for his safety, in an effort to find the tribe and reclaim him.

Only Ridge Madoc stands in her way.  A former army scout with a keen tracking sense and a keener sense of justice, Ridge has been sent by Emma's father to bring her back--a task that will give him the chance of reclaiming some of the land that was rightfully his.  But, he never expected a woman as determined and courageous as Emma.  Now, Emma must appeal to Ridge to help her with her desperate quest, and Ridge must struggle with his desire for a woman who no longer has a place in his world...

A western romance from Berkley Books

Top

"... an emotional journey filled with detail regarding the prejudice surrounding the time period. The plight of the heroine makes this a very fresh storyline, one that is not touched upon often enough. Justice, acceptance and, most of all, love make this story an unforgettable tale. Time and time again, Maureen McKade gives her readers not to be missed reads." --Tami Sutton, "Escape to Romance"

5 stars
"a poignant love story"
"...fans of Americana romances will appreciate this wonderful tale."  --Harriet Klausner

10/10 rating--The Blether Gold Award --"Blether Book Review"

"Strong, character-driven historical romance."
"The depth of a mother's love, the strength of family, the humanness of flaws and forgiveness forge a bond between the characters that make this both an exciting and inspiring read. Don't miss this one."  --Margaret Ohmes, "The Best Reviews"

A western anthology from Berkley Books

"A beautiful, tender love story of second chances and new beginnings." -- Suzanne Tucker, "The Best Reviews"

"I liked this story very much. Cait and Win's prior friendship made the romance real, and poignant. I found my eyes watering a bit when I got to the end of this sweet tale." -- Ellen D. Micheletti, "All About Romance"

5 Stars
"These four terrific late nineteenth century Americana romances star enchanting couples who at first seem wrong for each other until love brings them together." -- Harriet Klausner

Top

At Midnight
by Maura McKenzie
October 2001
Zebra Ballad
ISBN 0-8217-6907-3

"The story of Jared and Trish (Mac) is just great. This story offers lively and humorous dialogue between all the characters and Mac, a great romance, and suspense which makes this a real page turner." -- Kristi Ahlers, Brussels, Belgium

"All well-crafted stories, The Hope Chest series comes alive in the glittering Victorian age when Miss Sparrow, a dedicated hotel chatelaine, brings predestined lovers together through time travel. Fans of the series will find themselves easily transported into Ms. McKenzie's tale and highly satisfied to uncover Ms. Sparrow's secret. Just one more Hope Chest tale certain to please those readers looking for a series with something new! " SENSUAL -- Anne Black, Romantic Times

Top

His Unexpected Wife
December 2001
Avon
ISBN 0-380-81567-2

"Maureen McKade takes what could be a predictable, run-of-the-mill story and brings it to life.  It is this character growth that makes this novel more than an average western romance.   His Unexpected Wife is an unexpectedly enjoyable read!" --Shirley Lyons, The Romance Reader

"HIS UNEXPECTED WIFE is the long awaited sequel to Mail Order Bride. However, this book stands alone quite well. I have read all of Ms. McKade's past books and have really enjoyed them. His Unexpected Wife is no exception. If you are looking for a good historical western, this one is for you!  --Tami Sutton, Romance and Friends

Top

Outlaw's Bride
February 2001
Avon
ISBN 0-380-81566-4

"With novels like Dime Novel Hero and Mail-Order Bride, western romance fans know that a Maureen McKade novel is going to provide plenty of excitement and enjoyment. Her latest tale, Outlaw Bride, is another triumph as the fragile love between a gunslinger and an anti-gun widow faces a high noon scenario. Readers will empathize with Mattie trying to keep her son safe while hoping that Clint allows love to heal his soul. This entertaining tale will speed up Ms. McKade's rapid ride to the top of the sub-genre." -- Harriet Klausner

"Maureen McKade has written a thoughtful and touching story with both Americana and gritty Western aspects. Her three dimensional characters, their lively dialogue, and her writing style make this story come alive."

 -- Jill Brager, Romantic Times

Top

Mail Order Bride
January 2000
Avon
ISBN 0-380-80285-6

"A fascinating story about love, loyalty and family ties. Don't miss it!" -- Dorothy Garlock

"There have been so many romances with the title "Mail-Order Bride," one of them was bound to get it right. McKade does with her tale of Kate Murphy..." -- Marcia Abramson, Detroit Free Press

"This is a story that will tear at you heart. A terrific plot and a great cast." -- JW, Rendezvous

"McKade's book is well-done, uplifting and enjoyable" -- Annie Oakley, Rocky Mountain News

Top

Untamed Heart
February 1999
Avon
ISBN 0-380-80284-8

"I LOVED this book! For wit, charm and a wonderful romance, read Maureen McKade." -- Maggie Osborne

"McKade's, Untamed Heart, is a laugh-out-loud, touching portrayal of opposites attracting. With a clever storyline and sparkling dialogue she's created a town that will live in her readers minds and keeper shelves forever. A Keeper! Untamed Heart is one of the must read romances of the year!" -- Phoebe Imel, Literary Times

"...Untamed Heart was one of the most original romances I've read in a long time. I look forward to reading more from this talented author." -- Kate Smith, All About Romance

"Surprises, secrets and seductions abound in this gripping and entertaining race to the election box where love proves the victor. SENSUAL."
-- Maria C. Ferrer, Romantic Times

Top

"…a truly memorable story...A Dime Novel Hero follows wonderfully on the heels of Ms. McKade’s debut novel." -- Rendezvous

"…a winning combination from the talented Maureen McKade."
-- Romantic Times

"What a wonderful story! From the minute I started reading, I couldn't put it down. There are so many elements. It is a wonderful love story between a man and a woman, a mother and son and son and father. Plenty of action and mystery as well. Maureen writes "Kit" and "Jake" completely from the heart and you feel you know them within no time. Everything from dealing with a dysfunctional past to secrets within relationships are explored. I will definitely read any and all of Maureen McKade's future works. Give yourself a wonderful afternoon and PICK THIS BOOK UP!" -- KS Molden, Benson, MN

Top

RITA Finalist for Best First Book!!

"A warm and wonderful story…each page whetted my appetite for more." --Dorothy Garlock

-- Affaire de Coeur

"An exceptionally well-written story…heated passion, fast paced, sizzling sexual tension. Definitely an author to watch!" -- Rendezvous

"Ms McKade writes a romance filled with finely drawn characters that the reader will come to love and admire."
 --Romantic Times

Top