Title Her Perfect Blend
Author Zelda Benjamin
Genre Sweet Romance
Publisher The Wild Rose Press
Book Blurb
B and B owner Fiona Campbell leads a busy, yet well-organized, life. She hosts a popular afternoon tea, while adjusting to a recent guardianship. An unfamiliar man arrives to assess the needed repairs on the property's old barn, and she's inexplicably intrigued by his charm, compelling presence, and knowledge about construction techniques. However, she suspects he's not being open about his family's construction business. Could he be a secret billionaire or involved in illegal deals? Gavin McIver traveled from Scotland to participate in the local Highland Games. Helping a friend, Gavin goes to assess the Campbell barn repairs. Meeting Fiona, a woman who captivates him with her intelligence, independence, and understated glamour, is the highlight of his visit. His divorce left him leery about relationships, but winning custody of his daughter was the marriage's silver lining. He can't deny that meeting the sassy innkeeper gives him a change of heart.
Excerpt
“Stop by at two.” She picked up the umbrella and stepped away from the truck. “The main dining room is sold out. I can offer you something less formal. Hope you don’t mind having tea in the kitchen.”
“I prefer the kitchen table.” He smiled. Tea in the kitchen reminded him of simpler times when he didn’t have rushed deadlines, estranged relatives, and a significant portfolio. Back then, he didn’t need to be evasive or tell white lies to avoid judgment. Instead, like his cousins and siblings, he worked for his grandfather as one of the crew and received a meager salary.
“Me, too. I enjoy a cup of tea at the kitchen table. See you at two.” She avoided a puddle and waved him on.”
“Wow.” He rubbed a hand through his hair. Today’s fortunate stroke of fate led him to an unexpected expert. This morning, he was at a loss on how to search for Great-Aunt Joan. Within a short time, after meeting Fiona, the hunt had direction. Fair Fiona surprised him. She was an enterprising young lady and could be formidable competition. Cautious of the wet conditions, he drove slowly toward the road. At the end of the driveway, he shifted into Neutral and glanced in the rearview mirror.
She stopped at the porch steps and flashed a coy smile over her shoulder.
Gavin was no stranger to the charm of Highland Falls and its inhabitants. Jack’s description of the town was spot-on. He described the town as a charming secret hidden in the Adirondacks. Granaidh’s surprise announcement of an estranged sister gave Gavin the perfect excuse to visit his mate and see the town. The town was the last known location of his aunt and had recently become the latest international, real estate hot spot. Urged on by Granaidh, he called Jack “and signed up for the games. The upcoming Scottish event allowed him to slip inconspicuously into the community.
As if on cue, his phone beeped with a message from Jack.
—What’s going on?—
—Great wood. Do you think she might sell a few boards?—
He typed back.
—Never in a million years.—
Jack’s response was quick.
—My impression, too. What did you think of the fair Fiona?—
A heart emoji followed.
Gavin’s phone binged again, and several laughing emojis appeared on the screen.
As soon as Gavin’s divorce was final, Jack joined the succession of matchmakers.
Fortunately, texting didn’t catch any expectations in his friend’s voice.
A loveless marriage left Gavin wary of relationships. He wasn’t opposed to falling in love—if such a thing existed.
—Not what I imagined, but interesting.—
The way she casually tossed her braid over her shoulder was captivating. Her energy and understated good humor brightened the dreary barn. He smiled. Good thing Jack couldn’t see him.
—Interesting. Did you tell her why you’re here?—
Jack’s reply hinted at disappointment.
—For the games and to find my aunt—
He added a smiley face.
—And.—
—Nothing else to say.—
—She doesn’t know you’re worth a fortune?—
Jack added a dollar sign.
Gavin typed.
—NO.—
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Author Biography
Zelda Benjamin is the author of the Love by Chocolate series and Highland Falls series. She lives in Florida with her husband and a very active Labrador mix. She always loved telling stories and expanded her repertoire to include writing sweet romance with strong female characters. All her stories conclude with a delightful happily ever after. When not writing she loves to travel with family, experiencing the food and culture of the places she visits.
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