Mollie Mathews's Blog, page 2
July 12, 2025
Fall in Love in New Zealand—Romance Stories to Whisk You Away

I hope wherever you are in the world you are happy and safe. I am feeling blessed to be a New Zealand Romance author and to live in the beautiful Bay of Islands where it is so peaceful and far removed from the troubles in the world.
I hope my books provide a welcome escape.
Not long ago my lover took me on the coolest, fastest speed boat ride! There was only two of on the ride—we had all the thrills to ourselves. It was so much fun. And look at the weather… in the photo above…beautiful and sunny and it’s winter!
(scroll to the end of this blog to see the artwork for a new Billionaire Sheikh Romance that his tattoo inspired)

I know many of my readers have visited New Zealand and our neighbouring Pacific Islands fallen in love with this part of the world. Others’ dream of honeymooning here or visiting one day. Perhaps you can’t travel this far, but you can read New Zealand romance novels from the comfort of your favourite place to read.
Firstly, are some of my shorter romantic travel reads set in New Zealand. Further on, full-length billionaire romance stories, including my Fiji love story book.
Love All of Me
An unexpected lover…
After surviving a horrific accident Katie Miller is plagued by guilt. Hiding both her mental and physical scars, she shuns love and escapes into work—finding meaning and purpose in running her global manuka honey empire.
Beautiful and smart, when Gianni Romano demands she sell the business to him, her passions are inflamed. How dare he think he can buy the only thing that gives her a reason to live?
Gianni Romano has ventured to New Zealand by the one thing he’d love to escape: family The Romano fortune and name has followed him wherever he goes. But that only made the headstrong Italian more determined to strike out on his own. Now he’s on the cusp of achieving world acclaim.
Only one woman stands in his way—Katie Miller and her refusal to submit to his demands. The spark they have is more than a Sicilian sunset, but when emotions run deep and lives are on the line, will mixing business with pleasure be the bedrock for a lifelong love? Or will it all explode like an angry volcano?
Love Me As I Am is a clean romance, brimming with the promise of a happily ever after. Set in The Bay of Islands, New Zealand—one of the most beautiful, unspoiled, sensuous places in the world.
To enjoy your copy from Amazon, click here:
To enjoy your copy from iBooks, Barnes & Noble and other great bookstores, click here: https://books2read.com/u/4N9KnY
To enjoy your copy from Kobo, click here: https://www.kobo.com/nz/en/ebook/love-all-of-me


Kiri Love had no need for friendships. She had no time for distraction. She was in her final year of medical studies by the grace of God to do a job—and she was determined to do a darned good one. There was no way she could fail.
Her mom had scrimped and saved every last dollar she earned and worked three jobs to pay for Kiri’s education and Kiri was determined to make her proud. She would be the first person in her family to receive a degree and achieve her ambition of being a heart surgeon.
But when her mother is murdered, she sacrifices her ambitions and travels back to the tiny Far North town which had created so much pain.
With three sisters under nine to feed, she’ll do whatever it takes to provide them with the security they need—even if it means grovelling to Benotti Zegna, reclusive billionaire jeweller-to-the-stars.
Benotti Zegna has a heart of gold but a failed marriage has left him cold. His hands are full running his global empire, plus being top-dad to his young and motherless daughter.
He can spot a diamond in the rough and while alarm-bells warn him to watch his heart, intuition tells him that Kiri Love will make the perfect nanny.
The role he offers is a far cry from her the life she’d hope to lead, but Kiri quickly discovers the power of family and sacrifice to heal the deepest of wounds.
Love Me As I Am is a short story, clean romance, full of quirky humour and the promise of a happily ever after.
Set in The Bay of Islands, New Zealand—one of the most gorgeous, stunning, sensuous escapes on the globe.
Love Me As I Am is part of Mollie Mathew’s bestselling series, Passion Down Under Sassy Short Stories. It can easily be read as a stand-alone story, but you’ll love reading the other books, too.
“Love Me Forever has a lovely mystical feel about it, with deep longings being experienced by the characters. A delightful mystical romance with a dream-like quality, fraught with all the longings of Joey’s heart. When she plants her wish for her sister beneath the walnut tree, she doesn’t realize that the longings of her own heart have been heard.
When a stranger steps up to her in the vineyard it is the beginning of healing for her own heart. Well written with deeply emotive feelings, this book is part of a series and ends on a cliffhanger.”
~ Margaret W.
“Beautifully written. The author’s vivid and descriptive writing style pulled me into a world I never wanted to leave. Very beautiful stories!”
~ Hugh Harrison
“This was a fun read I really enjoyed. It’s perfect for a lazy weekend. This is the first book I have read by this author but it won’t be last. I can’t wait to be more.”
~ Poppy
To grab your copy from Amazon, click here>>getbook.at/LoveMe
To grab your copy from iBooks, Barnes & Noble and other great bookstores, click here>>https://books2read.com/u/mVNMA5
To grab your copy from Kobo, click here>>https://www.kobo.com/ebook/love-me-as-i-am-6
ALSO IN AUDIO
AUDIBLE
KOBO
https://www.kobo.com/audiobook/love-me-as-i-am-5

Still reeling following her malicious sacking, family therapist Lily Rose is feeling rejected and low in spirits. Even worse, she’s broke. The last thing she needs is more money woes. Which is exactly what happens when she collides with billionaire water magnate Leonardo Ermenegildo Bressolini’s mint-condition Lamborghini.
Having found a place to retreat from the madness and greed and malevolence of his ex-wife the last thing Leonardo wants is complications. But he is a man in need of a housekeeper. And Lily Rose owes him. Big time.
What they both don’t know is just what a massive impact the crash will have on their lives. Sparks heat into a collision of powerful forces that can’t be dampened.
Spontaneous love on the beach sends deep passions and emotional connection—more heartfelt than either has ever known—steaming to the surface.
When Leonardo’s past comes careering into his future—will both Lily and Lorenzo end up giving their hearts to the wrong person?
Forever and Always is a short story, clean romance, full of quirky humor and the promise of a happily ever after.
Set in The Bay of Islands, New Zealand—one of the most beautiful, unspoiled, sensuous places in the world.
Forever and Always is part of Mollie Mathew’s bestselling series, Passion Down Under Sassy Short Stories It can easily be read as a stand-alone story, but you’ll love reading the other books, too.
Reader Reviews“Did you ever dream that a car crash that wiped out your bank account could turn into one of the best days of your life? Meet Lily Rose, who only wants to help children through emotional trauma and ends up finding herself and her true love in the process. This charming and warm short story is just the start of great things to come.”
~ Elaine Zieroth.
“While a quick read, there’s plenty of meat to Forever and Always and a happily ever after in the offering!”
~ JoAnn Weiss
“I enjoyed Forever and Always—a story about two wounded people that come together in a crash. I very much enjoy Mollie Mathews writing. When she writes I feel like I’m right there because of the colourful descriptions that she paints.”
~ Pat
BUY NOW
To enjoy your copy from Amazon, click here>>getbook.at/ForeverandAlways
To enjoy your copy from iBooks, Barnes & Noble and other great bookstores, click here>>https://books2read.com/u/mKEQv9
To enjoy your copy from Kobo, click here>>https://www.kobo.com/en/ebook/forever-and-always-27
AUDIOBOOK
AUDIBLE
US
UK
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Forever-Always-Passion-Under-Stories/dp/B0868GKJ36
AU
https://www.amazon.com.au/Forever-Always-Passion-Under-Stories/dp/B086814BF7
KOBO
https://www.kobo.com/us/en/audiobook/forever-and-always-24
The books above are from my popular Passion Down Under Short Stories collection.
Sale!


USD$18.99 Original price was: USD$18.99.USD$6.99Current price is: USD$6.99.
FormatChoose an optioneBookPassion Down Under Sassy Short Stories 7 Book Bundle quantityBUY FROM MOLLIE
★★★★★ “Love and magic all together in these lovely stories – definitely ones to gladden your heart and make you believe that we all need a little magic in our lives.”
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ “Loved this book! These riveting romances will leave you wanting more.”
Get Cozy with these heartwarming short stories perfect for your holiday reading.
With inviting New Zealand backdrops including the beautiful Bay of Islands and the South Island’s wine region of Marlborough to set the scene and passionate leading characters, it makes the perfect holiday reading.
Grab a bargain today!! A MEGA BUNDLE of 7 beautiful short romances! Love, laughter, and happy endings await!
BOOKS INCLUDED IN THE BUNDLE:
Twist of FateLove Me ForeverForever and AlwaysLove Me As I AmThe Light Keepers LoverFinding a HusbandCrazy For YouBuy direct from Mollie and save!

Would you protect a murderer to save your family? Three women. Three lives. And the lies that bind them. Why is everyone afraid of the truth?
Do you dream of travelling to New Zealand? Now you can—all from the safety of your own home. The Italian Billionaire’s Scandalous Marriage is set amongst the spectacular scenery of the South Island in New Zealand.
When a lonely young American woman inherits a painting she discovers her whole life was a lie. Desperate for the truth, she goes in search of her true identity. The painting is her only clue. But everyone is determined to keep its secret past repressed, including Vitaliano Rossi, the Italian gold tycoon, unnaturally suspicious of her motives, who wants the painting vanquished. How can she discover who she really is and convince him that his love means more to her than gold?
Praise for Book Two in the Gemstone Billionaire’s series—The Italian Billionaire’s Scandalous Marriage
“I loved the premise that she needs the hero to unlock the secrets to explain her past—it’s great conflict.”
“I really enjoyed this story, your writing, the characters and the kiss. Thanks!”
“What a blinking good read—more please. I was hooked from page one.”
“I want to know the secret in the painting.”
To grab your copy from Amazon, click here>> getBook.at/ScandalousMarriage
To grab your copy from iBooks, Barnes & Noble and other great bookstores, click here>>https://books2read.com/u/mVNdn5
To grab your copy from Kobo>>https://www.kobo.com/ebook/the-italian-billionaire-s-scandalous-marriage-1
AUDIOBOOK
US
UK
AU
KOBO
https://www.kobo.com/en/audiobook/italian-billionaire-s-scandalous-marriage-the
The first two books of my romantic series were set in my home country against the beautiful backdrop of stunning Aotearoa and the tranquility of Fiji.
***YOU’LL LOVE THIS 2-BOOK BOXSET***Escape to New Zealand and Fiji with this sizzling 2‑book romance box set. Perfect for fans of travel and billionaire love stories—get your exclusive Amazon edition today!
AMAZON
US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06X17G5PR
CA: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B06X17G5PR
UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B06X17G5PR
AU: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B06X17G5PR
UNIVERSAL LINK: https://mybook.to/2BillionairesBoxSet
I loved writing these books, and I fed my inspiration by taking loads of photos and painting scenes as I wrote both The Italian Billionaire’s Christmas Bride, which is set in Auckland and Fiji, and the The Italian Billionaire’s Scandalous Marriage, which is set in stunning Queenstown—with a wee dose of Milan, Italy.
To help you visualise the extraordinary beauty of a country I’m lucky enough to call home, and to see some of the things that inspired these love stories, here’s a few piccies—taken by me.
First, here’s a few images from Fiji—so much natural beauty, and only a two hour flight away from New Zealand!


New Zealand’s Queenstown and Auckland, played a staring role in The Italian Billionaire’s Scandalous Marriage. Here’s a couple of shots of some of the stunning scenery around this part of the country.


And a few looking back across Auckland harbour, in New Zealand’s North Island, with The Sky Tower looming in the distance.

If you’ve read The Italian Billionaire’s Scandalous Marriage you’ll remember that scene where Alex finds out that man in the art gallery who’d taken her breath away the night before, is the mysterious buyer who holds the key to unraveling the secrets of her past. The ‘reveal’ takes place at the top of the Sky Tower. Here’s an excerpt from this scene, as Alex, who’s afraid of heights rides in the lift:
A bolt of awareness streaked down Alex’s backbone as sexual tension echoed in the silence around them. Excruciatingly aware of his amused stare, she locked her gaze on the elevator panel forcing herself to find it infinitely fascinating as every fiber of her body orbited in his direction.
No gaping. Didn’t the brute know that was elevator etiquette, she thought shocked at his directness and irritated by her humiliation?
She inhaled sharply and in an uncharacteristic move of boldness slowly, purposely, turned her head and surveyed him with one calm, detached glance.
At least that was what it was meant to be. Maddeningly, sage green eyes trapped hers, forcing her gaze to sensuous lips curved into a sardonic smile, as he leaned against the wall. Strong arms folded against his powerful chest as he faced her with the arrogant confidence of a non-conformist who found her mortal embarrassment amusing and cared nothing for rules. Clear and confident and incisive, his piercing gaze stirred an instant protective instinct, hammering home her acute vulnerability.
Damn, she thought helplessly, he is totally gorgeous. Alex’s heartbeat kicked up a gear even as her senses hummed, every cell detonating into life. Up close he was even taller and more warrior like than he’d appeared at the gallery. Long-legged, with shoulders that would be a credit to any Greek god he was 110% pure man. 1001% pure danger.
Gosh, what if he was the mysterious buyer, she thought for a reckless second? No impossible. He looked to be in his early-thirties, not old enough to be a man who had known her father and what had happened with his life over 20 years ago. This man would only have been a child then. He was far too young and far too casually dressed to be in possession of such a fortune. Heart contracting in her chest Alex ran a swift glance over his clothes. A rich chocolate hip-length leather jacket covered a V-neck navy cashmere jersey and white shirt hanging informally over ink colored designer jeans. Casual they may appear, but they were tailor made for brute strength, impeccably proportioned for his lean body and long, strong, muscled legs..
Her pulse hammered as the lift began to climb toward the restaurant 192 meters above the city. Don’t look down, a voice warned as the lift climbed higher. She fixed her gaze on a spot on the horizon, trying to block out the stranger’s unrelenting stare, made worse by his amused silence.
‘Allora, is your invisible friend afraid of heights?’ His unsmiling, icy calmness was in direct contrast to her uneasy emotions. The brute obviously had no empathy.
‘Afraid of heights? Nope,’ she lied, hoping he wouldn’t detect the fear sucking life from her voice. She hadn’t thought about the height thing when she’d impulsively picked the meeting venue. She wasn’t a planner. She was impetuous, impulsive. Stupid.
Why the hell hadn’t she thought it through? Whether it was a fierce determination to prove him wrong, or the mortification of already having made a fool of herself, she plastered on her most fearless, warrior-woman face and stepped over to the viewing glass inserted in the middle of the floor. Feel the fear and do it anyway, isn’t that what the self-help gurus advocated? Heck, it wasn’t as if she’d die.
I can do this she told herself, fixing the stranger with a defiant stare. Whether it was fear or the thrill of the crazed energy that sparked between them like wild-fire she didn’t know, but her head began to spin as she peered down into the abyss of the lift shaft. Her body tilted as the whole lift seemed to sway, pulling her in one lethal direction.
Gasping, she fought to control her legs. She squealed as she lost her balance. For one stark second she felt the undulating contour of every muscle in his hard torso on her back, and the strength of his arm across her breasts. Sparks like flints on graphite ignited between them as she clung to the man of steel and their bodies momentarily fused.
Although the heat storming her chest robbed her of breath, strength and wits, instinct kicked in. “Move back!” it snapped.
‘I’m so sorry,’ she mumbled mortified, her voice barely audible, as she sprung away from him as though his touch burned her.
I hope you enjoyed this wee peek into some of the inspiration for my books
P.S.
Sneak peek into artwork for a new Billionaire Sheikh Romance
You may also like:
Would you protect a murderer to save your family?
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See you soon!!
XXXX
The post Fall in Love in New Zealand—Romance Stories to Whisk You Away appeared first on Mollie Mathews.
July 11, 2025
Fall in Love in New Zealand—Romance Stories to Whisk You Away
So many of my readers are based in the US and dream of visiting New Zealand and the exotic Fijian Islands one day—but it’s just so far away.
The first two books of my romantic series were set in my home country against the beautiful backdrop of stunning Aotearoa and the tranquility of Fiji.
***YOU’LL LOVE THIS 2-BOOK BOXSET***EXCLUSIVE TO AMAZON
AMAZON
US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06X17G5PR
CA: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B06X17G5PR
UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B06X17G5PR
AU: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B06X17G5PR
UNIVERSAL LINK: https://mybook.to/2BillionairesBoxSet
I loved writing these books, and I fed my inspiration by taking loads of photos and painting scenes as I wrote both The Italian Billionaire’s Christmas Bride, which is set in Auckland and Fiji, and the The Italian Billionaire’s Scandalous Marriage, which is set in stunning Queenstown—with a wee dose of Milan, Italy.
To help you visualise the extraordinary beauty of a country I’m lucky enough to call home, and to see some of the things that inspired these love stories, here’s a few piccies—taken by me.
First, here’s a few images from Fiji—so much natural beauty, and only a two hour flight away from New Zealand!
New Zealand’s Queenstown and Auckland, played a staring role in The Italian Billionaire’s Scandalous Marriage. Here’s a couple of shots of some of the stunning scenery around this part of the country.
And a few looking back across Auckland harbour, in New Zealand’s North Island, with The Sky Tower looming in the distance.
If you’ve read The Italian Billionaire’s Scandalous Marriage you’ll remember that scene where Alex finds out that man in the art gallery who’d taken her breath away the night before, is the mysterious buyer who holds the key to unraveling the secrets of her past. The ‘reveal’ takes place at the top of the Sky Tower. Here’s an excerpt from this scene, as Alex, who’s afraid of heights rides in the lift:
A bolt of awareness streaked down Alex’s backbone as sexual tension echoed in the silence around them. Excruciatingly aware of his amused stare, she locked her gaze on the elevator panel forcing herself to find it infinitely fascinating as every fiber of her body orbited in his direction.
No gaping. Didn’t the brute know that was elevator etiquette, she thought shocked at his directness and irritated by her humiliation?
She inhaled sharply and in an uncharacteristic move of boldness slowly, purposely, turned her head and surveyed him with one calm, detached glance.
At least that was what it was meant to be. Maddeningly, sage green eyes trapped hers, forcing her gaze to sensuous lips curved into a sardonic smile, as he leaned against the wall. Strong arms folded against his powerful chest as he faced her with the arrogant confidence of a non-conformist who found her mortal embarrassment amusing and cared nothing for rules. Clear and confident and incisive, his piercing gaze stirred an instant protective instinct, hammering home her acute vulnerability.
Damn, she thought helplessly, he is totally gorgeous. Alex’s heartbeat kicked up a gear even as her senses hummed, every cell detonating into life. Up close he was even taller and more warrior like than he’d appeared at the gallery. Long-legged, with shoulders that would be a credit to any Greek god he was 110% pure man. 1001% pure danger.
Gosh, what if he was the mysterious buyer, she thought for a reckless second? No impossible. He looked to be in his early-thirties, not old enough to be a man who had known her father and what had happened with his life over 20 years ago. This man would only have been a child then. He was far too young and far too casually dressed to be in possession of such a fortune. Heart contracting in her chest Alex ran a swift glance over his clothes. A rich chocolate hip-length leather jacket covered a V-neck navy cashmere jersey and white shirt hanging informally over ink colored designer jeans. Casual they may appear, but they were tailor made for brute strength, impeccably proportioned for his lean body and long, strong, muscled legs..
Her pulse hammered as the lift began to climb toward the restaurant 192 meters above the city. Don’t look down, a voice warned as the lift climbed higher. She fixed her gaze on a spot on the horizon, trying to block out the stranger’s unrelenting stare, made worse by his amused silence.
‘Allora, is your invisible friend afraid of heights?’ His unsmiling, icy calmness was in direct contrast to her uneasy emotions. The brute obviously had no empathy.
‘Afraid of heights? Nope,’ she lied, hoping he wouldn’t detect the fear sucking life from her voice. She hadn’t thought about the height thing when she’d impulsively picked the meeting venue. She wasn’t a planner. She was impetuous, impulsive. Stupid.
Why the hell hadn’t she thought it through? Whether it was a fierce determination to prove him wrong, or the mortification of already having made a fool of herself, she plastered on her most fearless, warrior-woman face and stepped over to the viewing glass inserted in the middle of the floor. Feel the fear and do it anyway, isn’t that what the self-help gurus advocated? Heck, it wasn’t as if she’d die.
I can do this she told herself, fixing the stranger with a defiant stare. Whether it was fear or the thrill of the crazed energy that sparked between them like wild-fire she didn’t know, but her head began to spin as she peered down into the abyss of the lift shaft. Her body tilted as the whole lift seemed to sway, pulling her in one lethal direction.
Gasping, she fought to control her legs. She squealed as she lost her balance. For one stark second she felt the undulating contour of every muscle in his hard torso on her back, and the strength of his arm across her breasts. Sparks like flints on graphite ignited between them as she clung to the man of steel and their bodies momentarily fused.
Although the heat storming her chest robbed her of breath, strength and wits, instinct kicked in. “Move back!” it snapped.
‘I’m so sorry,’ she mumbled mortified, her voice barely audible, as she sprung away from him as though his touch burned her.
I hope you enjoyed this wee peek into some of the inspiration for my books
Love
The Gemstone Billionaires Boxed Set contains the first two books of AMAZON TODAY BEST-SELLING author Mollie Mathew’s romantic series set against the beautiful backdrop of stunning Aotearoa, New Zealand. If you like heartwarming, sexy and sweet romances with a touch of comedy, you’ll love sharing the journey with these authentic men and women longing to find their special soul with heart.
EXCLUSIVE TO AMAZON
AMAZON
US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06X17G5PR
CA: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B06X17G5PR
UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B06X17G5PR
AU: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B06X17G5PR
UNIVERSAL LINK: https://mybook.to/2BillionairesBoxSet
The first two Gemstone Billionaire books (over 500 pages) included in this bundle are:
The Italian Billionaire’s Christmas Bride
What if the person who is so, so, so wrong for you is really so, so, so right, but you’re too afraid to give love a chance?
Last Christmas, art therapist Issy Riley was jilted by her fiancé. This Christmas she’s running away. A week with a client on his private Fijian island promises to save her from cheating men and the London festive season. But when the client turns out to be a gorgeous and magnetic Italian billionaire, he threatens her resolve to never again trust her heart to the wrong man.
Milan fashion house leader and avowed bachelor Massimiliano Balforni has no intention of taking a vacation, despite his sister’s insistence that he subject himself to an art therapy retreat following a minor heart attack. With an important collection due, he intends to fire his therapist and work, instead. But the determined and striking Issy gives his heart palpitations of a far more dangerous kind.
The one thing Max and Issy agree on: they are as wrong for each other as wrong gets. He’s a workaholic playboy who believes emotion is a weakness. She’s a romantic who yearns for a happily ever after.
As the tropical heat soars, they discover that in this battle between work and play, resistance only fuels attraction—and sometimes two wrongs make a very passionate right.
Set in two beautiful paradises—Milano, Italy and the tropical Pacific islands of Fiji.
The Italian Billionaire’s Scandalous Marriage
What if everything you believed was a lie?
When a lonely young American woman inherits a painting she discovers her whole life was a lie. Desperate for the truth, she goes in search of her true identity.
The painting is her only clue. But everyone is determined to keep its secret past repressed, including Vitaliano Rossi, the Italian gold tycoon, unnaturally suspicious of her motives, who wants the painting vanquished. How can she discover who she really is and convince him that his love means more to her than gold?
Three women. Three lives. And the lies that bind them. Why is everyone afraid of the truth?
Praise for The Gemstone Billionaires series!
“What a blinking good read—more please. I was hooked from page one.”
“Mollie is just such a good writer with enormous appeal in her story – an excellent read on a rainy day.”
“An enthralling read. Keeps me captivated from start to finish and leaves me wanting more.”
Escape into romance with this beautiful box set. The Gemstone Billionaires Box Set is a fun read with healthy doses of escapism.
The post Fall in Love in New Zealand—Romance Stories to Whisk You Away appeared first on Mollie Mathews.
July 10, 2025
The Danielle Steel Method: How Working on Multiple Projects Sparks Joy and Creativity
Dear friends,
Hasn’t it been a beastly time? All this bad news, with fighting and hatred toward people and worrying about war, can drive us insane. I can relate to Danielle Steel, who says she escapes into love stories and works on many projects at the same time to stay happy.
You can read one of many articles where she shares how she manages to be so prolific, “Danielle Steel On Raising 9 Kids, Writing 174 Books, “Authoritarian” Ex-Husbands, here>>.
“I write a lot of books.”I especially loved her comments, “I write a lot of books. Sometimes I have an interview and it’s about a book I wrote ten months ago and I think, ‘Oh my god! What’s the story?’”
She is so prolific she is always jumping into the next book even while finishing her previous book. But she does confess being prolific does bring with it the extra work—and the need to sacrifice sleep. But writing and uplifting others via her stories makes her happy.
“It’s a vicious cycle. On the one hand, I work too much now. By the end of the day, I’m always writing. I stay up very late at night. Until three, sometimes four. I sleep about four hours a night, on average. But if I don’t work, then I’m sad. So I work more. I don’t have anything else in my life. It keeps me happy and busy. I’m not bored. I’m not depressed. It’s not such a great thing to work all the time. It’s profitable, but still. The one thing I don’t do well is sitting around relaxing.”
“The one thing I don’t do well is sitting around relaxing.”So rather than lose heart about all my loose threads my focus is on completing shorter books and staying busy. I don’t do sitting around and relaxing well either. And sometimes, because I have so many books on the go I wake in the night to write some more. Unlike Danielle, I do have a partner, and I love to spend time with him. So joining my nocturnal friends, the flightless Kiwis, I often wake up around 3am and spend an hour or two writing. I love the sacred silence.

Currently, in between writing this blog, I’m editing Awakened by The Sheikh. I love taking a break and then coming back to the story. I know if I smile and feel happy as I reread the story that you will love it too. I’m excited about this book and can’t wait to share it with you.
Bonus sneak peek! Awakened by the Sheikh
If you’re curious about what inspired Awakened by the Sheikh (the prequel in a brand-new sheikh romance series), don’t miss the official book trailer: Watch it here
You may enjoy Bought By The Sheikh, another of my Sheikh’s untamed brides, and one of my favorites
Get your hands on this sensual and feel-good love story today! Amazon; Kobo: iBooks; Barnes and Noble

FUN, SHORT, SMALL-TOWN CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE
Do you love a quick read? One of my many shorter books is my novella “Love Me As I Am“.
This story was sparked by a true event—the tragic murder of a mother and one of her daughters in a small town near where I live. I wondered how would her death affect the children she left behind. How would it affect their lives? What if something good could come from this tragedy?
So I began to write a love story. For love is the only antidote to hate. Forgiveness, the only path to healing. And purpose the gift that can come from tragedy.
As with all of my books, some of the characters and events in the story were also inspired by true events in my own life. Including, when my paternal grandmother was channelled by a psychic. She asked my disbelieving and sceptical self, “Your grandmother says you don’t believe she is here. But she is holding out a flower, and she wants to know, she is present. She is asking, “Do you remember the jasmine flowers growing over the house?”
I didn’t.
But when I drove home I called into Araby Lodge, where my grandmother used to live and where until her death, she bred and trained her beloved horses. At the time my father lived in her house. I asked him, “What is that vine growing over the house?”
I didn’t want to tell him anything about what the psychic had said because I was still skeptical and I didn’t want to influence the answer. My father said, “Oh, that old jasmine vine? That’s been there forever.”
My heart nearly leaped out of my chest. It was at that point that I began to believe in spiritual and psychic phenomena, and in time, many years later, to awaken my own gifts.
I named the story, Love Me As I Am, for isn’t that the deepest love of all. To love and be loved unconditionally—weirdness, flaws, fears, insecurities, our beautiful uniqueness…and so much more. These introductory novellas are currently published under the series: PASSION DOWN UNDER SASSY SHORT STORIES:

Book One: TWIST OF FATE
viewBook.at/TwistofFate


Book Two: LOVE ME FOREVER
viewBook.at/LoveMeForever


Book Three: FOREVER AND ALWAYS


Book 5: The Lightkeeper’s Lover

Book 6: Finding A Husband

To enjoy your copy from Amazon, click here>>mybook.to/FindingAHusband

And of course, there are my standalone full length love stories, like my award-winning romance, Love in Venice from the True Love Series and Claimed By the Shiekh, book one in Sheikhs Untamed Bride’s series To enjoy your copy from Amazon: getbook.at/ClaimedByTheSheikh


In life and love, it’s never too late
for a second chance. . .
This is not one of those times.
Fiercely independent contemporary artist Lucy Ford was absolutely content with her life—until the day Anwar na Hassir strolled into her gallery and back into her life.
She had dreamed of being a mother and would soon have a son. Being a single mum wasn’t the happy ending she had visualised, but at least she had someone to love. Someone of her own. Someone she could keep forever.
As long as the child’s father never found out. Anwar could not, would not, must not ever know the truth. Not if she was to keep her child.
Anwar was as formidable as Lucy was freewheeling. Luring Lucy to his desert Kingdom, somewhere between the magic of the desert and the stroll along the ocean, she lets him steal her heart. Only to discover love, once given, can never be returned.
A sensuous tale of modern love, career-crossed relationships, the heady magic of instant attraction, loss, and the unwavering faith that sustains them—even in the darkest hour.
If you love second chance romance set against a sensuous backdrop of the sensuous desert, art and innovative architecture, you’ll love Stolen by The Sheikh.
with all your favourite tropes, including:• Enemies to lovers
• Secret babies
• Opposites attract
• Wrong sides of the track
INCLUDES 3 BONUS CHAPTERS
Claimed By The Sheikh
To enjoy your copy from Amazon:
US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CR8LGF73
CA:https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0CR8LGF73
UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0CR8LGF73
AU:https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B0CR8LGF73
Universal link: https://mybook.to/StolenByTheSheikh
LOVE IN MONTANAYes, I still feel more joy as I work on multiple projects. Like LOVE IN MONTANA. This is a fun story!
I adore all my stories and really want to do them justice so that you love them too.

To enjoy your copy from Amazon:
US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D1JDG2PG
CA: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0D1JDG2PG
UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0D1JDG2PG
AU: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B0D1JDG2PG
Universal Link: https://mybook.to/LoveInMontanaPrequel
LOVE IN MONTANA is part of Mollie Mathews’ TRUE LOVE series starring Maverick Billionaires. While it can easily be read as a standalone story, you’ll likely enjoy reading the other books, too. All of Mollie’s series are linked. If you find a character you love, they could be in another novel.
TO ENJOY OTHER BOOKS IN THE TRUE LOVE SERIESLove In Venice (Mauro and Maggie) (3rd prize, Koru Excellence in Romance Award)
Love In Mexico (Ruby and Oliver)
Love In Sicily (Gianni and Kate)
Love In Montana (Lizzie and Jack)
Love in Tuscany (Lorenzo and Sophia)
Love In Greece ( (Sophia and Aris)
Love in Santorini (Helena And Damon)
ENJOY!
P.S. Would you enjoy a fun and frisky 30 minute read? Download TWIST OF FATE for free here—https://dl.bookfunnel.com/k12p1ul2rn. It’s a short story set in my former hometown, Wellington. New Zealand. 5-star reviews!
If you love it, or any of my stories, would you consider leaving a review on Amazon and Goodreads?
Thank you!
SHORT SWEET SHEIKH LOVE STORIES EXCERPT DESTINY: INSPIRED BY SHEIKHS AND DANIELLE STEEL
Destiny (Omar and Danielle)
“Work! Work! Work! That’s all you ever do. All work and no play makes Danielle a boring wife.”
“I love my work, Simon. Work is my leisure. Work is play, and you know why? Danielle Bowden threw at her husband. “Because I made it that way. What was that famous saying? When you do what you love?” She ran her long, manicured nails through the rivulets of strawberry blonde hair that touched her waist. Oh, yes, she remembered, “When you do what you love, you never work again.”
“But that’s all you ever do! Night and day, you’re always at your computer, writing those bloody romances.”
“Those bloody romances pay our bills. Besides, if I don’t work, I feel sad. So I work more. Writing makes me happy. Why do you have to resent that? When I’m busy, I’m not bored. I’m not depressed. I know it’s not such a great thing to work all the time. But it’s profitable and it’s good for me.”
“It’s not good for our marriage. You shouldn’t be up late every night working. You should be in bed with me. Working until three or four in the morning. It’s crazy!”
“I told you when we met, Simon, the one thing I don’t do well is sitting around relaxing. It makes me so angry when people judge me and tell me, ‘Don’t work so much. Don’t stay up all night working 22-hour days.'”
“It’s insane! Why can’t you love leisure?”
“Well, if I’m insane, what does that make all those people resting so much they’re dying of boredom? What does that makes all those people with their work-life balance so perfect they’re sleeping their way through their most productive and joyful years? If I’m insane, they’re just plain crazy. Work is my joy. It’s play. Every day I get to play make-believe. I love it.”
“And me?”
“What about you?”
“Do you love me?”
“Are you asking, demanding, ordering that I stop playing?”
“’Just work less. Pay more attention to me. If you worked less, you could… “
“Could what?”
“I don’t know. Watch TV.”
“TV!” she said incredulously. ”But I love to read. I love to write.”
“And I love to watch TV.”
“So you’ll only be happy when I do what you love?”
“You’re twisting my words.”
“God! You sound like my husbands. Yes, you heard that right. Husbands. Plural. I’ve had five. All of them resented my work. All of them said they’d love me more if I became someone I’m not.”
“You should have been a lawyer,” Simon said.
“God, how many times have I heard that?”
“You’re not a very good wife.”
“Not that again.”
The first time Danielle was told that was the role she should aspire to, she reflected, was by a misguided vocational counselor. Danielle had just turned 16 and was finally about to be released from the Convent school her father had banished her to 10 years earlier following her mother’s death. ‘The best (read-only) role a young girl should aspire to,’ the guidance counselor had advised, ‘is to become a dutiful wife.’
She had been set up for failure, Danielle thought, thrusting her shoulders back as she rose to leave the man she had spent the last two years trying to please.
“I will not be that woman,” she said coolly, thrusting her expertly manicured toes, painted a calm shade of turquoise blue, into her flaming red shoes.
She was mad. Mad and sad.
Why am I never enough?
“Leisure makes people lazy,“ she tossed over her shoulder as she strode to the door of her Parisian apartment. Convent school had instilled a strong work ethic at least. But she hadn’t bought into the fear that idleness was the devil’s work. Now, she wasn’t so sure. For years, Simon had fed off her royalties while he sat around tinkering with inventions that went nowhere, watching reality TV for inspiration. And now he had the gall to blame her for their failed marriage.
She paused, summoning her strength, as she turned and took a long, lingering glance at the man she knew was destined to be husband number six.
“I was a writer when you met me. I was a writer when you married me,” she paused and sucked in a strong, sturdy breath. “I am a writer.I will always be a writer. What I will not be is the woman you want me to be. The leisure-rich woman swanning around, devoid of inner peace, garroted by constraint as you yank my chains, overloaded with cares about your needs and wants, worrying if I will ever be good enough to satisfy your demands.“
He can have the apartment, she cursed as she slammed the door. She didn’t want the memories of heartbreak. And she didn’t want to tell him the truth. The moment they married, Simon changed. He no longer fawned over her accomplished writing career, no longer told her how much he admired her creative output, and no longer told her he felt so lucky to have married one of the world’s most beloved writers. He no longer told her he loved her for her. Perhaps he never had. Wasn’t that why she escaped into her books, penning love stories of true love and happily ever afters?
What now, she wondered? I failed at marriage again. Or marriage failed me. Whoever is to blame, it’s a mistake I’ll never repeat.
That leaves what? she wondered. A fresh start in a new city?
As she walked through the Parisian streets, a mix of emotions swirled within her. The decision to leave her husband and her life in Paris was not an easy one, but she knew it was necessary for her own happiness and growth. With each step, she couldn’t help but feel a sense of freedom, liberation, and excitement for what lay ahead.
At that moment, she reflected on her namesake, Danielle Steel. Her incredible journey of reinvention, including failed marriage after failed marriage, inspired her heart. She thought about how Steel had transformed her life time after time, overcoming obstacles and finding success in unexpected ways. The thought of creating a new chapter in her life ignited a fire within her.
With determination and a newfound sense of purpose, she vowed to follow in Danielle Steel’s footsteps. She would reinvent herself, explore new passions, and chase her dreams fearlessly. The world would become her playground, filled with endless possibilities and opportunities waiting to be discovered.
As she walked, she couldn’t help but smile. The world was a blank page, and she was ready to write a new life story. With each step, she left behind the old and embraced the new, knowing that her decision to leave was the first step toward a brighter future. The city of love had witnessed her transformation, and she was ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery, just like Danielle Steel had done time and time again.
And so, with a heart full of hope and determination, she continued walking through the Parisian streets, her gaze fixed on the horizon, ready to embrace the unknown and create a life that was truly her own.
Where to begin, she wondered as she entered the grand lobby of the Ritz, her heart pounding with excitement and uncertainty. Give me a sign, she tempted the fates.
The grandeur of the hotel momentarily overwhelmed her. Then inspiration struck. She couldn’t help but imagine the stories that unfolded within its walls. This was the same hotel where Princess Diana had spent her last days, adding a layer of mystique to the atmosphere.
As Danielle looked around, taking in the opulent surroundings, her mind wandered to her own life. She was embarking on a major transformation, leaving behind a comfortable yet unfulfilling existence. Now, she stood at the precipice of a new chapter, unsure of what lay ahead.
Lost in her thoughts, Danielle didn’t notice the tall, dark figure striding across her path until it was too late. The impact of their collision sent her stumbling backward, but strong arms caught her just in time.
“I’m sorry,” she said shakily as she glanced up at the man whose path she’d crossed. Magnetic green eyes met hers, igniting a blaze of heat within her belly.
“No, it was my fault. I apologize for the collision,” the man said in a deep, alluring voice. His eyes sparkled with a hint of mischief, instantly captivating Danielle’s attention. She couldn’t help but notice the air of mystery that surrounded him. Who was he? What brought him to this hotel?
As if reading her thoughts, the man offered a charming smile. “Allow me to introduce myself. I am Sheikh Omar Al-Fayed. And you, my dear, seem to be in need of a new adventure.”
Danielle’s curiosity peaked. The sheikh’s words hinted at a deeper understanding of her current state of mind. She looked into his eyes, trying to decipher the secrets they held.
“What do you mean?” she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.
The sheikh’s smile widened, revealing a glimpse of his enigmatic nature. “Do you believe in fate?”
“Destiny,” she whispered dangerously. “I believe in destiny.”
“Then the stars are aligned,” he said enigmatically. “I have a proposition for you. An opportunity to embark on a journey that will change your life forever. Are you ready to take that leap of faith?”
Danielle’s heart raced with a mixture of apprehension and excitement. Something about the sheikh’s presence ignited a sense of adventure within her—the same sense of adventure she injected into her romance novels. She took a deep breath, gathering her courage.
“Yes,” she said, her voice steady. “I’m ready to start a new story.”
And with those words, Danielle stepped further into the unknown, ready to embrace the mystery and intrigue that lay ahead with the rich and handsome sheikh by her side. Little did she know that this encounter would be the beginning of a thrilling and life-altering chapter in her life.
OUT NOW!
Enjoy this book through the links below…
To enjoy your copy from Amazon:
US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DDJ2FKP3
CA: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0DDJ2FKP3
UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0DDJ2FKP3
AU: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B0DDJ2FKP3
IBOOKS, BARNES & NOBLE, KOBO and other great bookstores:
https://books2read.com/u/bz9qoZ

Check out the following written and narrated by me.I love reading and narrating my own stories. I hope my New Zealand accent is understandable!
Flight of Passion
US
https://www.audible.com/pd/Flight-of-Passion-Audiobook/B0874YCXVL
UK
https://www.audible.co.uk/pd/Flight-of-Passion-Audiobook/B0874X8TGX
AU
https://www.audible.com.au/pd/Flight-of-Passion-Audiobook/B0874Y3V2T
KOBO
https://www.kobo.com/nz/en/audiobook/flight-of-passion-4
Sex With Strangers
Audible
USA
https://www.audible.com/pd/Sex-with-Strangers-Audiobook/B08BTKHJ61
UK
https://www.audible.co.uk/pd/Sex-with-Strangers-Audiobook/B08BTSSB6L
Australia
https://www.audible.com.au/pd/Sex-with-Strangers-Audiobook/B08BTKDD8R
Kobo
https://www.kobo.com/us/en/audiobook/sex-with-strangers-14
Love Me Forever
USA
https://www.audible.com/pd/Love-Me-Forever-Audiobook/B081QRGJV8
UK
https://www.audible.co.uk/pd/Love-Me-Forever-Audiobook/B081QQVRV4
Australia
https://www.audible.com.au/pd/Love-Me-Forever-Audiobook/B081QQW4N8
Twist of Fate
USA
https://www.audible.com/pd/Twist-of-Fate-Audiobook/B07YL93YYV
UK
https://www.audible.co.uk/pd/Twist-of-Fate-Audiobook/B07YLBN32S
Australia
https://www.audible.com.au/pd/Twist-of-Fate-Audiobook/B07YL9ZTLJ
The Lightkeepers Lover
USA
https://www.audible.com/pd/The-Lightkeepers-Lover-Audiobook/B07Z9PX3NY
UK
https://www.audible.co.uk/pd/The-Lightkeepers-Lover-Audiobook/B07Z9Q1Q89
Australia
https://www.audible.com.au/pd/The-Lightkeepers-Lover-Audiobook/B07Z9QRWBV
Forever and Always
USA
https://www.audible.com/pd/Forever-and-Always-Audiobook/B0868GTBNC
UK
https://www.audible.co.uk/pd/Forever-and-Always-Audiobook/B0868H5XKV
Australia
https://www.audible.com.au/pd/Forever-and-Always-Audiobook/B0868GM443
Love Me As I Am
Kobo
https://www.kobo.com/nz/en/audiobook/love-me-as-i-am-5
AUDIBLE
US
https://www.amazon.com/Love-Me-Am-Passion-Stories/dp/B08MT8JJWR
UK
https://www.audible.co.uk/pd/Love-Me-as-I-Am-Audiobook/B08MTKB9VF
AU
https://www.audible.com.au/pd/Love-Me-as-I-Am-Audiobook/B08MT8HL83
Finding A Husband
Kobo
https://www.kobo.com/nz/en/audiobook/finding-a-husband-3
AUDIBLE
US: https://www.audible.com/pd/B08H5TTP1S
UK: https://www.audible.co.uk/pd/Finding-a-Husband-Audiobook/B08H5ZPLW6
AU: https://www.audible.com.au/pd/Finding-a-Husband-Audiobook/B08H5WTY6M?qid=1599866634
Claimed by the Sheikh
Kobo
https://www.kobo.com/us/en/audiobook/claimed-by-the-sheikh-9
AUDIOBOOK
KOBO
https://www.kobo.com/us/en/audiobook/claimed-by-the-sheikh-9
AUDIBLE
US
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B08ZB1KSM3
UK
https://www.audible.co.uk/pd/Claimed-by-the-Sheikh-Audiobook/B08Z9L7D9G
AU
https://www.audible.com.au/pd/Claimed-by-the-Sheikh-Audiobook/B08ZB8H17F
The Italian Billionaire’s Christmas Bride
AUDIOBOOK
AUDIBLE
US
https://www.audible.com/pd/The-Italian-Billionaires-Christmas-Bride-Audiobook/B08QW1TWYP
UK
https://www.audible.co.uk/pd/The-Italian-Billionaires-Christmas-Bride-Audiobook/B08QW1ZW7L
AU
https://www.audible.com.au/pd/The-Italian-Billionaires-Christmas-Bride-Audiobook/B08QW3NL2Y
KOBO
https://www.kobo.com/nz/en/audiobook/italian-billionaire-s-christmas-bride-the
In less than 15 minutes you could be listening your way to love!
Audio versions of these books and the following are also available from all online bookstores and also libraries (Audible is experiencing long delays in publishing):
DID YOU ENJOY THIS POST?You may also like:
How Trauma Can Fuel Your Life Purpose
How extraordinary love can change our lives
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The post The Danielle Steel Method: How Working on Multiple Projects Sparks Joy and Creativity appeared first on Mollie Mathews.
July 5, 2025
The Italian Billionaire’s Scandalous Marriage
Three women. Three lives. And the lies that bind them. Why is everyone afraid of the truth?
When a lonely woman inherits a mysterious painting, she uncovers a startling truth—her entire life has been built on deception. Determined to unravel her real identity, she searches for answers, with the painting as her only clue. But her quest puts her at odds with powerful forces, including Vitaliano Rossi, a wealthy Italian gold magnate. Suspicious of her motives, he is intent on burying the painting’s secrets. Can she uncover her past and prove that his love is more valuable than all his riches?
This riveting romance will sweep you away on a journey filled with love, intrigue, and the mystery surrounding a hidden masterpiece.
AMAZON Description★★★★★ “Loved this book! This riveting romance will sweep you away.”
Three women. Three lives. And the lies that bind them. Why is everyone afraid of the truth?
When a lonely woman inherits a mysterious painting, she uncovers a startling truth—her entire life has been built on deception. Determined to unravel her real identity, she searches for answers, with the painting as her only clue. But her quest puts her at odds with powerful forces, including Vitaliano Rossi, a wealthy Italian gold magnate. Suspicious of her motives, he is intent on burying the painting’s secrets. Can she uncover her past and prove that his love is more valuable than all his riches?
This riveting romance will sweep you away on a journey filled with love, intrigue, and the mystery surrounding a hidden masterpiece.
“The secret behind the painting had me turning pages late into the night.”
AMAZON
“I loved the premise that she needs the hero to unlock the secrets to explain her past—it’s great conflict.”
hunt for a dad“The Italian Billionaire’s Scandalous Marriage,” by Mollie Matthews was an interesting read, to say the least. Ms. Matthews brings two characters to life in this enchanting tale of personalities that clash through much of the book. Determination not to give up shows the strength of these characters. This is a well-written novel. The author has done a wonderful job. I highly recommend this book and I think you will find it a good read.
a delightful, suspenseful read“When Alexandra receives a lawyer’s letter informing her that the father she has no knowledge of, has left her an inheritance, including a very special and priceless painting, her world is thrown into disarray. Alex leaves the comfort of her home in New York to investigate her past in New Zealand where she is confronted by the unusual painting she names Lost Love. The painting stirs up more questions than answers and the simple investigation into the life of her father turns into a multidimensional mystery. It also brings an angry Vitaliano Rossi across her path and before she knows it, her life is intricately bound with his. In a relationship where both Alex and Vitali mistrust one another, theirs is a battle of wits as Vitali wants the painting every bit as much as Alex does, but neither will divulge the reasons as to why they do. The attraction between Vitali and Alex is electric and although the book is relatively clean, there is enough passion between them to boil water. As truths emerge and they come to an understanding of each other’s motives, the love that has been simmering between them comes out in full force. I loved both Vitali and Alex and even though Vitali was arrogant and seemed to be self-serving, he is nevertheless an exciting hero, whilst Alex is the kind of woman we can all identify with. This is an excellent and somewhat suspenseful read.”
Buy this book through the links below…US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01M09CXRC
CA: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B01M09CXRC
UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01M09CXRC
AU: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B01M09CXRC
UNIVERSAL LINK: getBook.at/ScandalousMarriage
IBOOKS, BARNES & NOBLE, KOBO and other great bookstores:
AUDIOBOOK
The Italian Billionaire’s Scandalous Marriage
US
UK
AU
KOBO
https://www.kobo.com/en/audiobook/italian-billionaire-s-scandalous-marriage-the
The ebook and audio version of this book will also available from all online bookstores and also libraries
New to the Gemstone Billionaire Series? Each book can be enjoyed as a standalone, but once you dive into the world of these captivating billionaires, you’ll want more!
Book 1: The Italian Billionaire’s Christmas Bride (Issy and Massimiliano)
Other Novels by Mollie MathewsTRUE LOVE STORIES Love In Venice (Mauro and Maggie) (3rd prize, Koru Excellence in Romance Award)
Love In Mexico (Ruby and Oliver)
Love In Sicily (Kate and Gianni)
Love In Montana (Lizzie and Jack)
THE SHEIKHS UNTAMED BRIDES
Claimed by the Sheikh (Tariq and Melanie)
Stolen By The Sheikh (Anwar and Lucy)
Bought By The Sheikh (Fazza and Grace)
GEMSTONE BILLIONAIRES
The Italian Billionaire’s Christmas Bride (Issy and Massimiliano)
The Italian Billionaire’s Scandalous Marriage (Alex and Vitaliano Rossi)
The post The Italian Billionaire’s Scandalous Marriage appeared first on Mollie Mathews.
June 26, 2025
New Release: Awakened by the Sheikh (prequel)
JUST RELEASED!
Awakened by the Sheikh — a sensual royal romance and the prequel to the Desert Royals series — is only $0.99 for a limited time!
Fall in love with Dr. Celeste Valente, a brilliant Italian astrophysicist, and Crown Prince Zayad Al-Rami, in a slow-burn story of destiny, desire, and soul-deep recognition beneath the stars.

Awakened by the Sheikh: A Spellbinding Prequel to the Desert Royals Series – Now Just $0.99!
What happens when a woman who has stopped believing in love meets a man born into a kingdom ruled by stars and secrets? Awakened by the Sheikh is the powerful and poetic prequel to my new Desert Royals series, and I’m thrilled to share that it’s available now for just $0.99 for a limited time.
In this sweeping tale of love, redemption, and soul-deep awakening, we meet Dr. Celeste Valente, a brilliant Italian astrophysicist exiled from the world she once adored. Heartbroken and disillusioned, she escapes to the desert kingdom of Qamar—not to be seen, but to disappear.
But fate has other plans.
At the royal unveiling of Qamar’s new celestial observatory, Crown Prince Zayad al-Rami glimpses Celeste in a moment of unguarded wonder. A spark ignites. A recognition awakens. And so begins a story written in the constellations—an intimate revolution of heart, purpose, and power.








5.0 out of 5 stars – Prequel held my interest and left me wanting more
“Short and sweet with vivid descriptions… We are introduced to the main characters of Dr. Celeste Valente and Crown Prince Zayad Al-Rami and they are fleshed out nicely… I look forward to returning to the desert to see where the story takes us.”
— Verified Amazon Reviewer
This novella is short, sensual, and deeply emotional. It offers a window into the early spark between Celeste and Zayad—and sets the scene for the books to follow in the Desert Royals series, where legacy, love, and courage collide.

As a child, I was always enchanted by the stars. I imagined myself flying on a magic carpet, weaving through galaxies, asking questions others were too grown-up to wonder. One evening I looked up and said to my godmother, “Don’t you think it’s amazing that we’re suspended in the air?” Her reply? “Are you going crazy?”
That moment stayed with me.
Awakened by the Sheikh is a story about returning to wonder, about choosing love even when the world has made you afraid to feel. Celeste made a career out of loving the stars—because loving people had once cost her everything. But what if… someone came along who saw her for exactly who she is? What if… trusting again could light up not just her sky, but his kingdom?
Discover how a childhood fascination with the stars, a moment of awe under the night sky, and an unforgettable conversation with her godmother planted the seeds for a love story written in the stars.

For a short while, you can get Awakened by the Sheikh for less than a cup of coffee.
This novella is perfect for fans of emotionally rich, beautifully written love stories that linger in the heart.
[Download now
AMAZON:
US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FF8CC6ZC
CA: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0FF8CC6ZC
UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0FF8CC6ZC
AU: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B0FF8CC6ZC
IBOOKS, BARNES & NOBLE, KOBO and other great bookstores:
https://books2read.com/u/4A6wle

If Awakened by the Sheikh touches you, if Celeste’s journey resonates with your own longing to be seen, I’d be so grateful if you would consider leaving a review. Your words help other readers discover these stories—and they help indie authors like me keep creating magic.

While this novella can be read as a standalone, it’s part of the larger Desert Royals series starring Maverick Sheikh Billionaires. If you enjoy:
Unforgettable settingsIntelligent, powerful heroinesStrong, tormented royal heroesForbidden, fated love stories…you’ll want to follow every book in this emotionally sweeping series.
With love, stardust, and sovereign dreams,

The post New Release: Awakened by the Sheikh (prequel) appeared first on Mollie Mathews.
June 16, 2025
Murder at Brushwood Bluff: New Release
★★★★★ “Art, justice, and redemption collide in this unforgettable whodunit where every brushstroke could be your last.”

When intuitive artist and amateur sleuth Cassandra Fairweather is invited to co-host a winter art retreat at the secluded Brushwood Bluff Lodge, she sees it as a quiet escape from her past. But what begins as a creative sanctuary turns chilling when ten guests—all artists with buried secrets—find themselves trapped by a blizzard… and by an unseen hand delivering justice through death.
Each murder is staged with chilling precision, echoing a sinister nursery rhyme and exposing long-hidden betrayals. As the guests begin to fall one by one—each death a poetic performance—Cassandra must face a reckoning of her own. Who among them is orchestrating this gruesome gallery of guilt? And what does it have to do with Marisol, the brilliant young painter whose voice was stolen decades ago?
When Cassandra discovers a final canvas waiting for her brush, she must decide: will she be the last victim—or the one who tells the truth at last?
A taut, atmospheric mystery blending the elegance of Agatha Christie with the haunting beauty of art as confession.
Praise for the Montana Cozy Art Mysteries SeriesA masterpiece of mystery
“A masterpiece of mystery! The Montana setting is beautifully described, and Cassandra Fairweather is the perfect mix of charm and intelligence. I couldn’t put it down!”
— Jessica C.
kept me guessing until the very last page
The twists and turns kept me guessing until the very last page. If you love art and a good whodunit, this book is for you!”
— Marla H.
I loved the interplay of art and mystery
“Brilliantly plotted and filled with rich, atmospheric details. I loved the interplay of art and mystery—it added so much depth to the story. Highly recommend”
~ Megan W.
Buy this book through the links below…AMAZON:
US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FD9WQDBZ
CA: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0FD9WQDBZ
UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0FD9WQDBZ
AU: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B0FD9WQDBZ
iBOOKS, BARNES & NOBLE, KOBO AND OTHER GREAT BOOKSTORES: https://books2read.com/u/b6oMnJ
AUDIOBOOK
The audio version of this book is also available from all online bookstores and also libraries
AUDIBLE
US:
CA:
UK:
AU:
MURDER AT BRUSHWOOD BLUFF is the fifth book in the Cassandra Fairweather Art Mystery series, where each mystery is painted in layers—light, shadow, and revelation.
You may also enjoy the other books in this series:Murder on the Canvas
Murder in the FrameMurder in the PaletteMurder on the LakeEnjoy other full-length contemporary romances by Mollie Mathews:TRUE LOVE STORIES
Love In Venice (Mauro and Maggie) (3rd prize, Koru Excellence in Romance Award)
Love In Mexico (Ruby and Oliver)
Love In Sicily (Gianni and Kate)
Love In Montana (Lizzie and Jack)
Love in Tuscany (Lorenzo and Sophia)
Love In Greece ( (Sophia and Aris)
Love in Santorini (Helena And Damon)
Get lost in more holiday reads by Mollie Mathews: Christmas For One Married by Christmas The Italian Billionaires Christmas Bride The Sweet Christmas Romance CollectionFall in love with these contemporary heroes and heroines trying to mend their hearts, overcome their fears and find true love—read the other standalone books my Mollie to discover the friends and family who tumble into a once-in-a-lifetime-happily-ever-after affair of the heart themselves. 5-star reviews
The post Murder at Brushwood Bluff: New Release appeared first on Mollie Mathews.
June 11, 2025
The Cat Burglar’s Guide to Love
★★★★★ “Laugh-Out-Loud Funny, Ridiculously Romantic, and Utterly Addictive!”

DIRECT FROM MOLLIE l AMAZON l APPLE l KOBO l BARNES & NOBLE

★★★★★ “I absolutely loved this book. It’s one of the best in this genre I’ve read in a long time.”
A Laugh-Out-Loud Romantic Comedy Mystery
Enemies to Lovers |
Cozy Mystery Meets Rom-Com |
A Grumpy Chef & a Mischievous Food Critic
Finn Carmichael is a Michelin-starred chef who thrives on precision, order, and absolutely zero distractions. Lottie Fairweather is a fearless, fast-talking food critic who’s never met a mystery—or a man—she couldn’t crack wide open.
When 500 porcelain cat figurines vanish from Finn’s restaurant overnight, the crime scene turns into a tabloid sensation—and Finn’s worst nightmare. The last thing he needs is Lottie, London’s most infuriating journalist, sniffing around his kitchen, digging up clues, and flirting just to annoy him.
But as they chase down leads through secret supper clubs, midnight stakeouts, and one particularly disastrous rooftop escape, they realize the truth:
This isn’t just a crime—it’s a cat-and-mouse game they never expected to play.
And somewhere between bickering over five-star soufflés and nearly getting arrested, Finn starts to wonder…
What if the real heist was the one Lottie pulled on his heart?
Audiobook out now!
Buy Now
AMAZON:
US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F1SWKQYN
CA: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0F1SWKQYN
UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0F1SWKQYN
AU: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B0F1SWKQYN
iBOOKS, BARNES & NOBLE, KOBO AND OTHER GREAT BOOKSTORES:
https://books2read.com/u/4E1VVE
READERS JOY “A Fun Romp Through Misadventure and Chaos.”
This book is a fun romp through misadventure and chaos. Finn and Lottie are completely wrong for each other yet couldn’t be more right or perfect. This book could be fleshed out into a longer story which I’m sure would be could, but as is it is a fun and chaotic adventure that leads to love and a new lease on life. Lottie does more than steal Finn’s heart while they are chasing missing cat figurines, she steals the entire story. Absolutely recommended.
— Melanie., book lover
“Grumpy Chef + Sassy Food Critic = Rom-Com Perfection!”
“What happens when you mix a brooding, rule-following Michelin-starred chef with a chaos-loving food critic and throw them into a high-stakes heist involving 500 stolen porcelain cats? Absolute ROM-COM GOLD. I adored Finn and Lottie’s sharp-tongued banter, reluctant partnership, and swoon-worthy slow burn. Plus, the mystery kept me flipping pages way past my bedtime. Highly recommend!”
— Emily T., romance & mystery lover





“This book is a five-star meal for the soul—funny, smart, and ridiculously romantic! Finn is the ultimate grumpy, reluctantly-in-love hero, and Lottie is the kind of fearless, witty heroine you can’t help but root for. The mystery is delightfully absurd in the best way, the London setting is dreamy, and the chemistry? CHEF’S KISS. Read it. Love it. Tell all your friends.”
— Rachel M., rom-com addict
US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F1SWKQYN
CA: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0F1SWKQYN
UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0F1SWKQYN
AU: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B0F1SWKQYN
iBOOKS, BARNES & NOBLE, KOBO AND OTHER GREAT BOOKSTORES:
https://books2read.com/u/4E1VVE
THE SHEIKHS UNTAMED BRIDES:
Claimed by the Sheikh (Tariq and Melanie)
Stolen By The Sheikh (Anwar and Lucy)
Bought By The Sheikh (Fazza and Grace)
Forgotten By The Sheikh (Asim and Yasmin)
Untamed By The Sheikh (Khalid and Amara)
GEMSTONE BILLIONAIRES
The Italian Billionaire’s Christmas Bride (Issy and Massimiliano)
The Italian Billionaire’s Scandalous Marriage (Alex and Vitaliano Rossi)
Other books starring Maverick Billionaires
Love In Venice (Mauro and Maggie) (3rd prize, Koru Excellence in Romance Award)
Love In Mexico (Ruby and Oliver)
Love In Sicily (Gianni and Kate)
Love In Montana (Lizzie and Jack)
The post The Cat Burglar’s Guide to Love appeared first on Mollie Mathews.
June 9, 2025
Murder on the Lake
★★★★★ “The perfect read for lovers of cozy mysteries.”
AMAZON
Fame fades. Secrets remain. And in Willow Hollow, even the sweetest melodies can end in murder.
When a country legend’s perfect life unravels on the shores of Willow Hollow, secrets rise from the depths…
Everyone at the Willow Hollow Art Retreat is starstruck when Skye Newton, iconic country singer and queen of reinvention, checks in for a private lakeside getaway with her dashing new husband, Troy Landon. But when Troy’s shoes are found at the water’s edge and he disappears without a trace, the small town is thrown into chaos.
Was it a tragic accident? Or the perfect cover-up?
Cassandra Fairweather suspects the truth is murkier than the lake itself. Rumors fly—of affairs, old flames, and a prom queen with unfinished business. Then, a body washes up… but it’s not who anyone expected.
Now, with a scandal ready to explode and a killer lurking close to home, Cassandra must navigate fame, betrayal, and a trail of musical clues to uncover the truth.
Will she solve the mystery before another verse is written in blood?
Murder on the Lake is the fourth book in the Cassandra Fairweather Art Mystery series, where each mystery is painted in layers—light, shadow, and revelation.

mystery with a heart
“An atmospheric mystery with a heart! Murder on the Canvas is not only a gripping whodunit but also a love letter to art and creativity. Cassandra Fairweather is a character you’ll root for—she’s sharp, compassionate, and full of surprises. The perfect cozy read for a rainy afternoon!”
~ Samantha L
a cast of quirky suspects
“This book has everything I love about the cozy mystery genre: a picturesque setting, a cast of quirky suspects, and a clever sleuth. The art retreat is the perfect backdrop for a murder mystery, and the twists and turns kept me hooked. I can’t wait for the next book in the series!”
~ Emily R
I loved the interplay of art and mystery
“Brilliantly plotted and filled with rich, atmospheric details. I loved the interplay of art and mystery—it added so much depth to the story. The suspects are multidimensional, and the reveal was as satisfying as it was surprising. Highly recommend”
~ Megan W.
Read now – exclusive to Kindle Unlimited!
Murder on the Lake is available only on Amazon and FREE to read with your Kindle Unlimited subscription.
Don’t miss this twisty, glamorous cozy mystery set at a lakeside art retreat where secrets shimmer just beneath the surface.
Fame.
Betrayal. And a disappearance that was never what it seemed…
Start reading today and solve the mystery alongside Cassandra Fairweather!
Buy this book through the links below…AMAZON:
US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FCFB68FR
CA: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0FCFB68FR
UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0FCFB68FR
AU: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B0FCFB68FR
AUDIOBOOK
The audio version of this book is also available from all online bookstores and also libraries
AUDIBLE (COMING SOON)
US:
CA:
UK:
AU:
You may also enjoy the other books in this series:Murder on the Canvas
Murder in the Frame
Murder in the PaletteEnjoy other full-length contemporary romances by Mollie Mathews:TRUE LOVE STORIES
Love In Venice (Mauro and Maggie) (3rd prize, Koru Excellence in Romance Award)
Love In Mexico (Ruby and Oliver)
Love In Sicily (Gianni and Kate)
Love In Montana (Lizzie and Jack)
Love in Tuscany (Lorenzo and Sophia)
Love In Greece ( (Sophia and Aris)
Love in Santorini (Helena And Damon)
Get lost in more holiday reads by Mollie Mathews: Christmas For One Married by Christmas The Italian Billionaires Christmas Bride The Sweet Christmas Romance CollectionFall in love with these contemporary heroes and heroines trying to mend their hearts, overcome their fears and find true love—read the other standalone books my Mollie to discover the friends and family who tumble into a once-in-a-lifetime-happily-ever-after affair of the heart themselves. 5-star reviews
The post Murder on the Lake appeared first on Mollie Mathews.
June 8, 2025
Why do I write cozy, art-related murder mysteries?
Because I believe art holds secrets—and sometimes, they’re deadly.
For me, painting and storytelling are both acts of revelation.
Each mystery I write is a love letter to creativity, a whisper of intrigue, and a celebration of second chances. I want readers to feel the warmth of small-town life, the thrill of uncovering truth, and the healing power of beauty—even in the darkest of times.

Love gripping mysteries with a creative twist?
Get three page-turning, art-infused whodunits in one unbeatable bundle—FREE in Kindle Unlimited or yours to own for the price of a single book!
The Montana Cozy Art Mysteries 3-Book Box Set is perfect for fans of smart sleuths, atmospheric small towns, and secrets hiding in plain sight.
If you believe art can whisper the truth… this series will speak to your soul.
Download now and escape to Willow Hollow, where every brushstroke tells a story—and some of them end in murder.
Available exclusively on Amazon. FREE in KU.
US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FB86X4S9
CA: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0FB86X4S9
UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0FB86X4S9
AU: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B0FB86X4S9
Montana Cozy Art Mysteries 3-Book-Bundle Box Set (Murder On The Canvas, Murder In The Frame, Murder in the Palette)Where art meets murder, secrets hide in every brushstroke…
★★★★★ “Lyrical prose meets slow-burn suspense. The perfect read for anyone who believes art can reveal more than evidence ever could.”
The Montana Cozy Art Mysteries 3-Book-Bundle Box Set contains the first three books in Award-winning author Mollie Mathews’s cozy mystery series: Murder On The Canvas, Murder In The Frame, Murder In The Palette, staring amateur female sleuth Cassandra Fairweather.
Murder On The Canvas
In the picturesque town of Willow Hollow, nestled in the Montana mountains, the Willow Hollow Art Retreat promises a sanctuary of creativity and inspiration. But when renowned and notoriously cruel artist Victor Deveraux is found dead at his easel during the annual Plein Air Painting Competition, the retreat transforms into the scene of a chilling murder mystery.
Cassandra Fairweather, a former art historian and the retreat’s owner, reluctantly steps into the role of amateur sleuth. With a keen eye for detail honed from years of studying art and a determination to protect her beloved retreat, Cassandra begins to piece together the fragments of Victor’s tumultuous relationships with the retreat’s participants.
Murder In The Frame
An art auction, a missing masterpiece, and a killer hiding in plain sight…
Fresh off solving the shocking murder of a famous art critic, Cassandra Fairweather is ready to leave crime-solving behind and focus on what she loves most—running the Willow Hollow Art Retreat. But when an exclusive charity art auction at the retreat takes a deadly turn, Cassandra finds herself entangled in yet another mystery.
With whispers of forgery, deception, and stolen identities, Cassandra must navigate a web of intrigue stretching from Montana’s mountain town to the high-stakes world of art collectors. Who wanted the painting so badly they’d kill for it? And what secret was hidden within the frame?
Murder in the Palette
Some secrets are buried in the garden. Others are mixed into the paint.
Each spring, artist and intuitive sleuth Cassandra Fairweather welcomes guests to her Montana haven, a sanctuary known for creativity, reflection, and peace. But when the influential Drummond family arrives for a Mother’s Day retreat—reeling from the recent death of their patriarch—their perfect image begins to crumble.
When May Drummond, the family’s formidable matriarch, is found dead in the retreat’s wildflower garden, her death appears natural. Yet Cassandra sees what others miss. Through intuitive painting sessions, silent observations, and the unspoken language of color, she begins to uncover a truth hidden in the shadows of the palette—where resentment, rivalry, and revenge have been brushed over for too long.
As a spring storm seals everyone inside Willow Hollow, buried secrets emerge in pigment and paint. A granddaughter’s haunting artwork. A missing basket of mushrooms. A second will that threatens to unravel the family’s legacy. Cassandra must trust her instincts, her brush, and the stories told in stillness to unmask a killer before they strike again.
Snag three cozy page-turners in one binge-worthy box set—FREE in Kindle Unlimited or yours to own for less than a cup of coffee!
EXCLUSIVE TO AMAZON:
US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FB86X4S9
CA: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0FB86X4S9
UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0FB86X4S9
AU: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B0FB86X4S9

The post Why do I write cozy, art-related murder mysteries? appeared first on Mollie Mathews.
June 6, 2025
Do you dream of being seduced by the Sheikh

AMAZON l APPLE l KOBO l BARNES & NOBLE
He was a man she should never love. She was the dream he could never possess.
When war turned her world to ashes, perfumer Layla Samara fled with nothing but the scent her mother crafted—a fragrance woven from memories, hope, and survival. Now rebuilding her life far from her shattered homeland, she guards her heart as fiercely as her dreams.
Until she meets Sheikh Zahir Al-Rami — the dangerously handsome ruler whose wealth could buy anything…except the trust of a woman like Layla.
One forbidden encounter draws them together, stirring a passion neither can resist—and awakening a longing Zahir thought he’d buried forever.
But secrets swirl behind palace walls. Duty demands Zahir marry a noble bride. And Layla carries a secret of her own—one that could cost them both everything.
When destiny and desire collide, will they sacrifice everything they know for a love written in the stars?
Seduced By The Sheikh is an unforgettable story of healing, passion, and the powerful bond that rises from the ashes of the past.
Perfect for fans of enemies-to-lovers, forbidden love, opposites attract and sizzling royal romances, Seduced by the Sheikh delivers passion, intrigue, and a love story as untamed as the desert itself.
SEDUCED BY THE SHEIKH (Prequel) is part of Mollie Mathews’ THE SHEIKHS UNTAMED BRIDES series starring Maverick Sheikh Billionaires. While it can easily be read as a standalone story, you’ll likely enjoy reading the other books, too.
THE SHEIKHS UNTAMED BRIDES
Claimed by the Sheikh (Tariq and Melanie)
Stolen By The Sheikh (Anwar and Lucy)
Bought By The Sheikh (Fazza and Grace)
Forgotten By The Sheikh (Asim and Yasmin)
Untamed By The Sheikh (Khalid and Amara)
Unveiled By The Sheikh ( Haleem and Laila)
Deceived By The Sheikh (Rafiq and Lina)
Seduced By The Sheikh ( Zahir and Layla)
BUY NOWAMAZON:
US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F6MBZJRN
CA: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0F6MBZJRN
UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0F6MBZJRN
AU: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B0F6MBZJRN
iBOOKS, BARNES & NOBLE, KOBO AND OTHER GREAT BOOKSTORES:
https://books2read.com/u/bzx7BE
Coming soon.
Tamed By The Sheikh (Hamad and Nicky)
Freed by the Sheikh (Rashad and Haya)
Destined For The Sheikh (Omar and Danielle)
Awakened By The Sheikh (Kamil and Sera)
The post Do you dream of being seduced by the Sheikh appeared first on Mollie Mathews.