Praise for THE LANDLORD'S BLACK-EYED DAUGHTER by Mary Ellen Dennis

Elizabeth Wyndham is "more likely to be attacked by an army of frogs" than find a husband. Fortunately, she is the star author of Minerva Press, a dubious occupation for a lady in 1787, but it pays her bills, as well as her father's debts. Unfortunately, Elizabeth doesn't want to finish her latest book because she'll have to finish off her hero, too, a man who has dominated her dreams. Rand Remington has returned from the war in the colonies wounded in body and soul. His innocent niece has been hanged in his absence, and Rand's revenge against the injustices of the wickedly cavalier upper class is to relieve them of their worldly goods and spread the wealth among the poor. Exhausted from his latest heist, Rand opts to relax by reading a gothic novel by B. B.Wyndham he's stolen from his latest victim. Much to his surprise, the plot and characters evoke an overwhelming sense of déjà vu, and he's driven to meet the author. Star-crossed lovers in a former life, Elizabeth and her highwayman face insurmountable odds. Dennis' wonderful retelling of Alfred Noyes' The Highwayman is, quite simply, remarkable. ~ Shelley Mosley, Booklist starred review

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Take one highly successful Gothic romance writer who just happens to be an innkeeper's daughter; add one disillusioned, devil-may-care highwayman who robs only the rich on principle; set them down in the turbulent, hypocritical times of late 18th-century England; season with a dash of humor, a splash of the paranormal, and a dollop of danger; and let the adventures begin. Loosely based on Alfred Noyes's poem "The Highwayman," with Robin Hood elements and a hint of Romeo and Juliet tossed in for good measure, this tale, for all its lively romance and adventure, takes on some serious social issues of the times, specifically the privilege of wealth and the inherent injustices it causes. A fast pace, fluid writing, and an exceptionally well-crafted plot make this an enjoyable read. ~ Library Journal

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The Landlord's Black-Eyed Daughter engages the reader in an exhilarating romp throughout 18th century England, with adventure at every turn and spine-tingling suspense. Combined with accurate historical facts and nonstop action, this book will suit any adult reader. Characters and dialogue are compelling,  historical facts not only interesting but fascinating, and the plot one that simply will not allow the book to be set aside until finished. An exceptional, superbly written book. Highly recommended. ~ Christy Tillery French, Midwest Book Review
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The Landlord's Black-Eyed Daughter is a powerful historical romance with captivating storytelling that gallops across country to a thrilling conclusion.

Dennis invests her characters with a rich, full-blooded stock. Rand is no superhero, but a complex human being who must pause for rest and entertain the occasional self-doubt. His "Bonnie Bess" may have the heart of a racehorse, but she too has normal fears and foibles. Even the villains arouse pity as they are led by human frailty and often pardonable motives.

The chapters are steeped in fascinating period lore. Quirky details like the unethical arts of horse trading keep the pages turning. Quaint country dialect (sheep = woolbirds) adds to the realism. Authentic depictions of places like Newgate Prison contain powerful descriptions and a fine eye for architecture. Whether riding across the evocative moors or powdering a wig, the scenes are set with care. The madness of King George hangs over the political scene like a pall, and even the Prince of Wales makes an appearance in a very funny episode.

Anyone familiar with Noyes' poem "The Highwayman" will spot the analogy and worry about the fateful ending. But Dennis, once again aided by her meticulous research, pulls off an artful coup at the end. This clever book follows in the grand tradition of classics like Forever Amber. ~ Dr. Lou Allin, Professor at Cambrian College.

DREAM DANCER:

Set against the exotic world of a 19^th century circus, Mary Ellen Dennis’s DREAM DANCER sweeps readers into a story of death-defying feats, dangerous rivalries, and a love that has all the thrills and romance of the greatest show on earth. As terror becomes the star attraction, it will take a woman’s indomitable dreams and a man’s enduring love to survive and triumph over the most impossible odds of all.

“The characters are intriguing from the very first paragraph. The readers can't help but to lose their hearts to Calliope. She is a free spirit, headstrong and determined to keep the circus going no matter what. Brian is just as headstrong and determined as Calliope. Only he is determined to do things his way. They often butt heads, much to this reviewer's delight. The sexual tension between Calliope and Brian fairly scorches the pages. This book also boasts a colorful supporting cast. What else would you expect in a circus? All of these characters are well written
and multi-faceted. Dream Dancer is very sensual and sizzling. This book is highly recommended
for historical romance lovers.” Fallen Angels

“Welcome a new name to the Honor Roll of Highly-Talented Writers. The plot is well-organized and tightly controlled to heighten tension. The large canvas of the American west is ideal for the author’s images. She uses words to paint Americana with all the bright colors of the Big Top and accents each with a touch of Ireland.” Romance Communications

“The plot of Dream Dancer takes a number of twists and turns, most of which are a direct result of Calliope’s actions and decisions. Calliope Kelley isn’t always an admirable heroine; she doesn’t always make noble or heroic choices. She is flawed, just as Scarlett O’Hara was flawed. And like Scarlett, Calliope is a survivor. She never gives up or gives in. She acknowledges her own mistakes and then moves on. Readers who enjoy complex stories and appreciate strong female characters should thoroughly enjoy Dream Dancer.” Lynn Turner

Many years. The Landlord’s Black-Eyed Daughter was ahead of its time, due to the paranormal elements (which “concerned” some publishers)

Dream Dancer was requested by Kensington (Pinnacle), contracted on a partial, and took approx. 9 months to research and write.

Landlord: I’ve always loved the Alfred Noyes poem “The Highwayman,” and – when very young – swore I’d someday write an historical romance inspired by my favorite poem.

Dream Dancer: While researching Heaven’s Thunder – a Colorado Saga - I discovered that the circus had come to Colorado in the nineteenth century. That piqued my interest and I began to research circuses. In doing so, I found a book on circus dialect…and my fate was sealed J

Landlord: I had to get inside the mind of a 1790s Gothic romance writer. It must have worked fairly well because, while waiting tables, my diners thought I was born and raised in London.