Mollie Mathews's Blog, page 9
April 10, 2024
Free chapter Bought By The Sheikh—out now!
Hello, lovely readers,
Check out the latest release in the Sheikhs Untamed Brides series, ‘Bought By The Sheikh.’ Get your hands on this sensual and feel-good love story today! Scroll to the end to enjoy a FREE EXCERPT.
Amazon; Kobo: iBooks; Barnes and Noble
• Enemies to lovers
• Forced Proximity
• Opposites attract
• Wrong sides of the track
You’ll love Bought By The Sheikh
AVAILABLE FROM ALL WONDERFUL ONLINE BOOKSTORES
AMAZON (ebook and paperback)
AMAZON US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CRR3XQ5M
AMAZON CA: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0CRR3XQ5M
AMAZON UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0CRR3XQ5M
AMAZON AU: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B0CRR3XQ5M
UNIVERSAL LINK: https://mybook.to/BoughtByTheSheikh
iBOOK, BARNES AND NOBLE, AND OTHER GREAT BOOKSTORES:
https://books2read.com/u/mKXvo5
KOBO:
https://www.kobo.com//en/ebook/bought-by-the-sheikh-1
AUDIO COMING SOON!
I hope you love Grace’s and Fazza’s love story. Please feel free to forward this to any of your friends and family who love sensual, feel-good love stories

My whole life is a lie.
Grace Hunt fought back tears as she watched the video testimonial clients had posted on YouTube. The words slid over her like a contaminated oil slick on the pristine waters of the Arabian Sea as she listened to the praise they lavished upon her. “Grace is a wonderful person.” “Grace has changed our lives.”
The testimonials should fuel her, but now, thanks to the damage her toxic family had wrought, she felt dead to kindness. How could she believe anything anyone said anymore?
How could her family have betrayed her so brutally? How could her mother have said such shockingly unkind things when she was alive? How could her brother and sister have stolen her inheritance when she had been so good and kind and loving to them? Why had she become the scapegoat for her family’s dysfunction?
Jealousy.
Wasn’t that what the therapist, Issy Riley, had said? “They’re jealous. No,” Issy had corrected. “They’re envious. Envy seeks to destroy.”
“Families are meant to love,” Grace had protested—naïvely, as it turned out.
“Sometimes there’s nothing worse than family,” the therapist had said.
Grace shut the laptop and walked to the panoramic windows of her penthouse apartment overlooking the glittering skyscrapers of Aibud. Tears fell down her cheeks. A month ago, she had had a loving family. At least, she had convinced herself she did. Now that she had ousted their lies, there was no going back. She had been a sister, a daughter, an aunt, and a cousin. But now she had no one. She was alone. Again.
Indefinitely.
After the scandal erupted, there had been no other option but to walk away. Fly away, she corrected, gazing out at the Arabian landscape that months ago had been so foreign to her. Was she destined always to be an outsider, she wondered? An imposter? A stranger? Even to those she loved?
She wasn’t an envious person. She wanted the best for everyone. But in the end, it didn’t matter. She was the sacrificial lamb in their ravenous hunger for slaughter. It didn’t have to be like this, she mused. But after discovering they had hidden the truth from her last Christmas, she had no choice but to confront the facts.
They hated her. Hated her beauty. Hated her popularity. Hated her goodness. Hated the success she had worked so bloody hard to achieve. She was a modern-day Cinderella, living a nightmare. Except no prince was riding to her rescue. No handsome Middle-Eastern ruler to kiss away her tears. No desert warrior ready to battle her assailants.
No one to hold her.
A salty tear trickled down her lips. She wiped it away and vowed it would be her last. She needed no one. She would devote the rest of her life to the one thing she could trust.
Self-reliance.
She would devote the rest of her life to two things she could trust, she corrected.
Self-reliance and work.
I hope you enjoyed this excerpt. AVAILABLE NOW—ebook and print—audio coming soon. You’ll find all the links below
Amazon; Kobo: iBooks; Barnes and Noble
Until next time, happy reading
You may also enjoy Bought By The Sheikh’s Pinterest page: https://www.pinterest.nz/molliemathews/bought-by-the-sheikh-book

The post Free chapter Bought By The Sheikh—out now! appeared first on Mollie Mathews.
April 5, 2024
Free Chapter Finding a Husband

“You don’t really want one of those, do you?” Helen screwed up her nose and shook her head. Her hair was cut short; the thin spikes of grey resembled a hedgehog and barely moved as her head swished from side to side.
“She definitely does!” Cassie replied emphatically. “She really does.” She glanced at Julie and quickly looked away again.
Julie was clearly not amused. Her body was rigid, as though she knew she was about to undergo further humiliation, perhaps even torture.
Julie sucked in a deep breath. She could kill Cassie for spilling her longings to a complete stranger. “What would I know? I’ve never had a husband,” she said, laughing a little too hard. “But I’d like to get married before I get too old.”
Helen stepped out from behind her desk and began pouring champagne into two of the dozen or so tasting glasses laid out on a table directly opposite the entrance. “Too old?” she said, handing the girls a glass. “You don’t look a day over 20.”
“I’m 35,” Julie said quietly. “If I leave it any later, I’ll be too old to have children.”
“What and ruin that pretty figure of yours,” Helen laughed, crossing her arms over her bulbous breasts. “Believe me, when you have children, your breasts will be the first to go. I’d love to get rid of these,” a ripple of laughter bubbled across the vineyard as she squeezed hard and attempted to flatten her chest.
“You’re well proportioned,” Cassie said kindly, holding her glass out for a refill.
“Thank you, dear. It’s nice of you to say,” Helen smiled, then turned her attention back to Julie.
“I’m reading a fabulous book at the moment. Before you go getting yourself a husband, I think you should read it. Every single girl should. It’s about a woman who’s having an affair. To her horror, the guy gets up, leaves his wife, and arrives on her doorstep. For the rest of the book she’s trying desperately to get rid of him.”
Julie frowned, “I don’t blame her. He doesn’t exactly sound like the kind of man you’d want to settle down with.”
“My thoughts exactly. Besides the fact that he cheats, she doesn’t want to spend the rest of her life ironing his underwear and running around after him.”
“But surely there’s more to marriage than domestic chores?”
Helen threw her a knowing look.
Julie’s phone rang. She cast her questions aside as she rummaged in the folds of the soft leather shoulder bag.
“Hurray!” Cassie said, grinning broadly and jumping up and down. “It’ll be him.”
Helen looked puzzled.
Cassie’s eyes glinted mischievously. “I’m matchmaking. I bet you it’s him calling now.” She turned to Julie, “He’s a wee bit shy at first, but once you get him going, he’s a real talker. I texted him just before and suggested now was a good time to call.”
Helen rubbed her hands together and squealed with delight. “Oh, I love it! Go on, then. Get the phone! Get the phone!” She cried as the phone continued to ring from the depths of Julie’s bag.
Julie continued to rummage frantically through her bag. “I can’t find it.”
“What have you got in there? A kitchen?” Helen patted the desk. “Tip it here!”
Julie poured the contents of her bag on top of Helen’s immaculately organized desk.
“Brownie points for Tim,” Cassie said as the phone kept ringing. “At least he’s persistent.”
Julie’s phone was buried amongst maps, vineyard brochures, a box of tampons, and her favorite coral lipstick. Thankfully, it was still ringing as she reached for it.
“He’s a real catch,” Cassie confided to Helen. “Funny, open-minded, wealthy—he’s got a freehold house and money in the bank. Best of all, he wants to have children.”
Helen’s face lit up. “Ooh!” she said, clapping her hands. “I can hear wedding bells already. And to think that I was there when it all happened. You can have the wedding here.”
“Exactly,” smiled Cassie as Julie finally answered the phone. “I’ll make sure you’re on the guest list—not the hired help.”
“Hello. Hello?” said Julie, her voice shaking slightly.
Cassie and Helen held their breath.
“Damn!” Julie looked glumly at the phone. “I missed the call.”
“Well? What are you waiting for? Ring him back, silly,” Cassie and Helen chorused.
“Ohhh, suddenly I’m feeling nervous. I’ll need another drink before I call,” Julie said.
“Of course!” Helen reached for another bottle. “Wine and romance go together perfectly. I thought you’d like to try the 2004 Chardonnay next. It’s been oaked for 12 months and is one of our most popular wines,” she said, leaning toward Julie, “and it’s great for boosting confidence.”
Julie took the glass and drank thirstily. It was only a tasting measure, but it gave her the courage she needed. She headed out of the cellar and into Blenheim’s bright southern light. She kept walking until she was sure she was out of earshot and dialed Tim’s number.
Helen sighed and looked at Cassie disappointedly.
DID YOU ENJOY THIS EXCERPT?Finding a Husband, book 6 in the Passion Downunder Sassy Short Stories series. Out Now!FREE in KU.Buy this book through the links below…
AMAZON US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B082QRK67N
AMAZON CA: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B082QRK67N
AMAZON UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B082QRK67N
AMAZON AU: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B082QRK67N
UNIVERSAL LINK: https://mybook.to/FindingAHusbandBook
AUDIOBOOK
AUDIBLE
AMAZON US: https://www.audible.com/pd/B08H5TTP1SAMAZON UK: https://www.audible.co.uk/pd/Finding-a-Husband-Audiobook/B08H5ZPLW6
AMAZON AU: https://www.audible.com.au/pd/Finding-a-Husband-Audiobook/B08H5WTY6M?qid=1599866634
The audiobook is also available from other online retailers and libraries for your listening pleasure
What delightful reviews!“So good!! This may be a short quick read but there are plenty of warm fuzzy feelings mixed in amongst the humor and witty banter. Take a break, kick back, relax, and unwind from all the stress of the Holidays and enjoy another delightful story by Mollie Mathews. We deserve this!”~ Anita F.“I absolutely loved everything about this book! Finding a Husband is a sweet, fun, witty and downright fantastic short read that I thoroughly enjoyed from the first page until the last. It’s full of real characters, it’s page-turning, entertaining, and beautifully written. A definite must read and I definitely recommend it!”~ Lynn S.

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April 1, 2024
2024 in review: Joy Rich
Discover the key to a joy-rich life
Reflecting on a year of growth and success…
As I shared in my 2023 review, a fun ritual I’ve recently started is beginning the day with a one-word intention. Words hold vibrations. Some words lift us higher, and some lower us. Words guide us, and words deliver the things we want in our lives (or not…depending on whether you’re using word wands or wielding swords). The way you flourish your words affects how or if you manifest your desires.
This year, I’ve themed 2024 around the words Joy Rich. Joy is one of the highest vibrational states we can achieve. It embodies so many energies—love, peace, happiness…and, of course, joy! For me, it embodies the passion and purpose I have for storytelling—to send love letters to the world and to write about the themes important to me. I also love providing the ultimate distraction for myself and my readers—gorgeous escapist reads.
I began the year by publishing the second book in the Sheikh’s Untamed Brides series:
Stolen By The SheikhAmazon; Kobo: iBooks; Barnes and Noble

★★★★★ “I loved Stolen By The Sheikh! The depth of emotions touched my heart!”
Award-winning author Mollie Mathews returns with another heartfelt exploration of the power of love and second chances. Perfect for fans of love stories by Danielle Steel, Sarah Morgan, and Jojo Moyes
Fiercely independent contemporary artist Lucy Ford was absolutely content with her life—until the day maverick Sheikh Anwar na Hassir strolled into her gallery and back into her life. Anwar could not, would not, must not ever know the truth. Not if she was to keep her child.
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 that love, once given, can never be returned.
If you love second-chance romance after heartbreak books, you’ll love this exotic second-chance romance.
This is a standalone, clean, and wholesome romance novel. It contains a guaranteed HEA and a tale of romance that will capture your heart.
INCLUDES 3 BONUS CHAPTERS
Claimed By The Sheikh
• Enemies to lovers
• Secret babies
• Opposites attract
• Wrong sides of the track
You’ll love Stolen By The Sheikh
Preorder this book through the links below…
AMAZON US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CR8LGF73
AMAZON CA: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0CR8LGF73
AMAZON UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0CR8LGF73
AMAZON AU: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B0CR8LGF73
UNIVERSAL LINK: https://mybook.to/StolenByTheSheikh
iBOOK, BARNES AND NOBLE, AND OTHER GREAT BOOKSTORES
https://books2read.com/u/mg5dP0
KOBO:
https://www.kobo.com/en/ebook/stolen-by-the-sheikh-3
Five Nights With The Duke (Prequel): A later-in-life, fake engagement romance
“In a few pages, this author had me deep into her story: Harriette is a mature woman, an only child who cannot inherit her father’s title or estate and is left at the mercy of a cousin. Rather than be sold off to a bad marriage, she has gotten herself a governess position so she can remain independent and pursue her own hobbies. I could not penalize this as a cliffhanger although it sure left me ready for the book to follow.”
Well, this is fun. For many moons I have wanted to write a historical romance—and began to do so. Finally, a few days out from Lovers Day (Valentine’s Day), I have published the prequel to my first Regency romance, 5 Nights With The Duke…with a new pen name, Eloisa George.
Love Is A Dangerous Art
A later-in-life, fake engagement romance
Henry Lawrence, the notorious Duke of Bedford, must wed quickly and nobly—and his choices, alas, are few. Newly arrived governess Harriet Hartwell is exquisitely beautiful and fiercely intelligent.
Bedford determines to betroth himself to Harri without further ado. As to her lost title and fortune, the fake engagement need only endure 5 nights under his father’s scrutiny. But 5 nights with the Duke is the last thing fiercely independent aspiring artist Harri wants.

The week before Easter I held a storytelling retreat in my art studio. It was magic—and so joy-rich! I loved reading the following social media post to her friends from one of the participants, a women in her 50s who had given up her dream of writing
“Many of you know that I wanted to be a writer when I was little, and as a teen. I’d type for hours on my electric typewriter.
But my dreams got stymied as an 18 year old and I stopped writing creatively and a little bit of me broke that day. I struggled to write creatively again.
I’ve also had a novel in my head the past 22 years but have never written anything more than the main characters names, even though they’re alive in my head. I’ve not had the confidence to ever start.
A couple of months ago my good friend Nicola sent me a post about a writers retreat with @the_joyful_artiste. Well before i could rescind, I booked and paid and committed.
Last weekend rolled around with fatigue and trepidation but I had committed so I went north for the weekend. Despite my body rallying against me.
And it was transformative.
And I wrote. And wrote. And wrote some more. Little short stories.
Then at the end of Day 1. I started Chapter 1 of “THE BIG NOVEL”. After 22 years it was there.
Then day 2 I had 6 pages written and the characters started coming to life.
I had the privelige of spending two glorious days with Cass and Heather – two phenomenal women. We were transported into a portal of creativity, love, silliness, sassiness and strength.
And I couldn’t be more thankful that the writing spirits dragged my ass up north.”

During Easter, I typed ‘The End’ on BOUGHT BY THE SHEIKH, the third book in the Sheikhs Untamed Brides series, and sent it out to my fab team of Beta readers. BOUGHT BY THE SHEIKH releases May 30 and is available for pre-order now. You’ll find all the links and a fun video on my website>>
THE JOY OF VARIETYI do love variety…working on different books, short and long, modern and historical and a host of other things keeps me interested. I’m a discovery writer and I love to write about the themes, people, places and subjects that interest me—like lipstick and chocolate!

I’m in the early stages of writing Beautiful and For The Love of Chocolate and a variety of other novels. Join my newsletter subscribers to stay in the know. Sign up here: http://eepurl.com/cigEsH


Amazon; Kobo: iBooks; Barnes and Noble
I HOPE YOU LOVE THIS FREE EXCERPT! READ LIZZY and JACK’S ROCKY JOURNEY TO TRUE LOVE>>
Free Chapters Love In Montana
TRUE LOVE. PURE HEART.
Preorder this book through the links below…AMAZON US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CRR3VDYP
AMAZON CA: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0CRR3VDYP
AMAZON UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0CRR3VDYP
AMAZON AU: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B0CRR3VDYP
UNIVERSAL LINK: https://mybook.to/LoveInMontana
iBOOK, BARNES AND NOBLE, AND OTHER GREAT BOOKSTORES: https://books2read.com/u/3JGv9K
KOBO: https://www.kobo.com/en/ebook/love-in-montana-1
Thanks for reading! Have a great week, full of fun moments and happy days,
love, Mollie
DID YOU ENJOY THIS POST?
You may also like:
2023 in review—fun, love and gladness
How Trauma Can Fuel Your Life Purpose
How extraordinary love can change our lives
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You may also enjoy:The post 2024 in review: Joy Rich appeared first on Mollie Mathews.
March 27, 2024
Wishing everyone a lovely Easter

Whether you celebrate or not, Easter weekend is upon us, and that means so are Easter treats! I wanted to share with you a gluten-free Hot Cross Bun recipe I discovered recently. I’ve never made my own hot cross buns, and it was so much fun! Scroll to the end of this blog for the recipe.
There are many ways to celebrate Easter in a joyful way! Here are some ideas:
1. Easter Egg Hunt: Organize an egg hunt in your backyard or at a local park. Hide colorful Easter eggs and let everyone, young and old, enjoy the thrill of searching for them.
2. Decorate Easter Eggs: Get creative and decorate Easter eggs with various colors, designs, and patterns. You can use paint, markers, stickers, or even try natural dyes for a unique touch.
3. Bake Easter Treats: Spend some time in the kitchen and bake delicious Easter-themed treats like hot cross buns, carrot cake, or sugar cookies. Get the whole family involved and have fun decorating them.
4. Attend Church Services: Easter is a religious holiday for many, so attending church services or participating in virtual religious ceremonies can be a meaningful way to celebrate the day.
5. Have a Family Brunch: Gather your loved ones for a special Easter brunch. Prepare a feast with traditional dishes like ham, roasted vegetables, and sweet treats like pastries or pancakes.
6. Send Easter Greetings: Spread the joy by sending Easter greetings to friends and family. You can send personalized cards, e-cards, or even a heartfelt message through social media.
7. Enjoy Outdoor Activities: Take advantage of the beautiful spring weather and plan outdoor activities like picnics, nature walks, or bike rides. It’s a great way to celebrate and appreciate the season.
8. Give Back: Easter is also a time for giving and helping others. Consider volunteering at a local charity, donating to a food bank, or participating in community service activities to make a positive impact.
9. Do Something You Love: Along with baking I love writing! I’m having so much fun writing the final scenes of Bought By The Sheikh which releases May 30…scroll to the very end for the purchase links. I’ll be releasing a fun excerpt with an Easter Egg hunt to my newsletter subscribers, join here and receive exclusive content>>
Remember, the most important thing is to spend quality time with your loved ones, embrace the spirit of Easter, and create joyful memories together.
Ingredients:
6 portions
For the Buns:
3 cups (380g) gluten-free all-purpose flour (ensure it’s a blend meant for bread) 1/4 cup (50g) brown sugar 1 tablespoon (10g) instant yeast 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) salt 2 teaspoons (4g) allspice 1/2 cup (120ml) warm milk (dairy or plant-based) 1/4 cup (60ml) unsalted butter, melted (or 60ml coconut oil for dairy-free) 2 large eggs 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) vanilla extract 3/4 cup (110g) raisins Zest of 1 orange For the Cross: 1/2 cup (70g) gluten-free all-purpose flour 5 tablespoons (75ml) water For the Glaze: 2 tablespoons (30ml) honey 2 tablespoons (30ml) waterInstructions:
Preparing the Dough:
Make a starter: Combine warm milk with yeast and sugar. Leave for 10 minutes to dissolve the yeast.Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the gluten-free all-purpose flour, salt, and allspice.Add Wet Ingredients: Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients. Pour in the warm milk with yeast and sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined. The dough will be stickier than traditional wheat dough.Incorporate Fruits: Gently fold in the raisins and orange zest until evenly distributed throughout the dough.First Rise: Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 hour, or until the dough has nearly doubled in size.Shaping the Buns:
Divide the Dough: After the first rise, gently deflate the dough. Divide it into 6 equal portions. Shape each portion into a smooth ball and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each bun.Second Rise: Loosely cover the shaped buns with a clean kitchen towel. Let them rise for another 30 minutes, or until they’re puffy.Preparing the Cross:
Make the Paste: While the buns are undergoing their second rise, mix the gluten-free flour and water to create a thick paste. If the paste is too thick or too runny, adjust by adding a little more water or flour, respectively.Apply the Cross: Spoon the paste into a piping bag with a small nozzle. Pipe a cross on top of each bun.Baking:
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).Bake the Buns: Place the baking sheet in the oven. Bake the buns for 20-25 minutes, or until they turn golden brown.Glazing:
Prepare the Glaze: While the buns are baking, mix the honey and water.Glaze the Buns: Once the buns are baked, remove them from the oven. While they’re still warm, brush them with the honey-water glaze. This will give them a lovely shine and a sweet finish.Source: https://www.bloomhealthy.co/gluten-fr...
BOUGHT BY THE SHEIKHReleases May 30
Preorder this book through the links below…
AMAZON US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CRR3XQ5M
AMAZON CA: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0CRR3XQ5M
AMAZON UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0CRR3XQ5M
AMAZON AU: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B0CRR3XQ5M
UNIVERSAL LINK: https://mybook.to/BoughtByTheSheikh
iBOOK, BARNES AND NOBLE, AND OTHER GREAT BOOKSTORES
https://books2read.com/u/mKXvo5
KOBO: https://www.kobo.com//en/ebook/bought-by-the-sheikh-1
BOUGHT BY THE SHEIKH 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)
Wishing everyone a lovely Easter celebration!
May your day be filled with joy, love, and lots of chocolate eggs!
Remember to take some time to appreciate the beauty of spring and spend quality time with your loved ones. Sending you all warm wishes and blessings on this special day. Happy Easter!
#EasterCelebration #JoyfulSpring #LoveAndChocolate
The post Wishing everyone a lovely Easter appeared first on Mollie Mathews.
March 11, 2024
Love and Healing
Firstly, welcome to my new readers and subscribers to my newsletter. I’m so happy you are joining me. I love to write beautiful, healing love stories and send love letters to the world. As one of my newest readers wrote to me, “Writing books can be hard” but it is purposeful work and makes my heart sing when readers write to tell me how much my stories mean to them personally.
I hope you enjoy this new prologue I created for Love In Sicily. Many readers wrote to me and told me how much more they enjoyed this story when they discovered it was based on a true event—the volcanic eruption on Whakaari in the Bay of Islands, New Zealand, just before Christmas in 2019.
If you haven’t read Love In Sicily yet, you’re in for a treat. Purchase links and blurb below
“I love this story from Mollie Matthews that gives another view into living by the Bay of Islands in New Zealand. Kate Miller is the sole survivor from her family of the volcanic eruption on Whakaari in the Bay of Islands in northern New Zealand. She has rebuilt her father’s beekeeping business for Manuka honey. She really runs into a reclusive Italian-New Zealander, Gianni Romano. It seems there is instant heat, but the heat is more of distrust by Kate. Really, they both have issues they have been hiding that prevent moving forward. I hope you will enjoy this story of how the bees bring these two together despite serious missteps. Enjoy a break in a warmer setting!”
Love In Sicily…New PrologueDecember 2019, National Burns Centre, Auckland Hospital, New Zealand
As the soft rays of dawn pierced through the hospital room windows, casting a gentle glow on the sterile walls, Kate Millar slowly opened her eyes. The throbbing pain from her burns surged through her body, a cruel reminder of the volcanic eruption that had ravaged her life three weeks earlier. The events leading up to her awakening were a blur, but the weight of her loss sat heavily on her chest.
Her eyes searched the room for familiar faces, but all she found were the cold, impersonal surroundings. The sound of hushed voices outside her door hinted at the presence of doctors and nurses, the guardians of her fragile existence. With a trembling hand, she reached up to touch her bandaged face, feeling the scars that now adorned her once flawless skin.
As the fog of sedation lifted, memories of that fateful day began to resurface. The image of the majestic volcano, its smoldering mouth beckoning with an alluring danger, swirled in her mind. It had been her idea to venture to the very heart of the seething beast to witness its destructive power firsthand. And now, she was the sole survivor, left to grapple with the devastating consequences of her own curiosity.
Tears welled up in Kate’s eyes as she whispered her family’s names, her voice choked with grief. Her mother, a beacon of warmth and love, who had always been her rock, was dead. Her father, whose wisdom and strength had shaped her into the person she was, would never walk beside her again. And her younger sister, full of mischief and laughter, who had looked up to her with admiration, was—
Dead. They were all dead! It should have been me, I should have been the one who died, she sobbed inwardly.
A wave of guilt crashed over her, threatening to drown her in its suffocating embrace. How could she have been so selfish, so blind to the potential dangers? The weight of responsibility pressed upon her, her heart burdened by the belief that she alone was to blame for the tragic loss of her family.
How could she possibly forgive herself? What right did she have to live? They should have survived. Not me. Guilt, blame, and shame raged through her mind, tangling with the brutal, indescribable loss.
The hospital room door creaked open, interrupting Kate’s tormenting thoughts. A nurse, her kind eyes filled with empathy, approached the bedside. With a gentle touch, she tried to offer hope and solace to her shattered survivor.
“I know it feels unbearable right now,” the nurse said softly, her voice a soothing balm to Kate’s wounded soul. “You mustn’t blame yourself. You couldn’t have foreseen what happened. Nature is unpredictable. It was an accident, a horrible, horrible accident. Blaming yourself won’t bring them back.”
Kate’s trembling lips attempted a weak smile, gratitude mingled with sorrow. The nurse’s words offered a glimmer of understanding, a sliver of hope in the darkness that consumed her. Perhaps forgiveness lay not in assigning blame but in finding the strength to heal and honor her family’s memory in a different way.
Their loss would not be in vain, she vowed. She would become a voice of caution, a beacon of hope for those who had lost their loved ones to the capricious whims of nature. And she would ensure the reckless, profit-greedy tour operators, those truly to blame for placing her family and the other victims of the volcano’s eruption in the way of harm, were brought to justice. More importantly, she would continue her father‘s legacy, Bee Healthy and the passion she and her father shared for the healing properties of bees.
The road ahead would be treacherous, wrought with emotional challenges and the scars that adorned her body. But Kate was determined to transform her embers of remorse into a beacon of resilience and compassion. With every step forward, she would honor the memories of her mother, father, and sister, ensuring that their lives lived on through her strength and determination.
Buy this book through the links below…To enjoy your copy in ebook or paperback from Amazon:
US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CXRGFRC6
CA: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0CXRGFRC6
UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0CXRGFRC6
AU: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B0CXRGFRC6
Universal Link:
https://mybook.to/LoveInSicilyBook
iBOOK, BARNES AND NOBLE, AND OTHER GREAT BOOKSTORES: https://books2read.com/u/49ajQp
AUDIO BOOKhttps://www.chirpbooks.com/audiobooks/love-in-sicily-by-mollie-mathews
https://www.kobo.com/us/en/audiobook/love-in-sicily
https://libro.fm/audiobooks/9781991053282
The ebook and audio version of this book will also available from all online bookstores and also librariesLOVE IN SICILY is part of Mollie Mathews’ TRUE LOVE STORIES series starring Maverick Billionaires. While it can easily be read as a standalone story, you’ll likely enjoy reading the other books, too.
TRUE LOVE STORIES
Love In Venice (Mauro and Maggie)
Love in Mexico (Oliver and Ruby)
Love in Montana (Lizzie and Jack)
Love In Sicily (Kate and Gianni)

Read moreFeatured reader of the month: Margaret

I received the sweetest message from a new member of my DREAM TEAM of ARC readers.
“Hi there, Mollie!
I am looking forward to your books! I love to read, but I am too fast to buy books; it would be like burning money. I love that you are from New Zealand, and I would love to see that continent someday. Maybe when I get the bills all paid! Thank you so much for writing books. I know how hard that can be, so keep up the good work!
Your newest reader,
Margaret
Messages like these are so encouraging and lovely to receive. I do love my readers! I am so lucky to have so many lovely ladies who enjoy my books. Thank you!



Also, if you’d love to live the dream and join my Dream Team of BETA and ARC readers, receiving free books in return for honest reviews on Amazon and other retailers, please DM or email me. I’d love to hear from you.
Much love
MolliePeople often ask me where I love to write. One of my favorite spots, especially in the heat of summer, is outside in the shade, overlooking the beautiful native trees, listening to our native Tuis singing.

Feel the love on Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/molliemathewsauthor
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The post Love and Healing appeared first on Mollie Mathews.
March 8, 2024
Invest in women: Accelerate progress
Dear Friends,
March 8th was International Women’s Day, and the United Nations announced the theme: ‘Invest in women: Accelerate progress”, and encouraged people to take a stand using the hashtag #InvestInWomen.
On this week’s blog, enjoy a Free Excerpt and explore the inspiring story of the Women to Drive movement and their determination to create progress and independence for women drivers.
While researching the third book in my Sheikh’s Untamed Brides series, Bought By The Sheikh I’ve discovered that for a long period Saudi women were not able to have a driver’s license–and therefore drive a car. But that didn’t deter some brave women. Al-Hathloul, literally accelerated progress— previously obtaining a driver’s license from the United Arab Emirates. She filmed her experience of driving from the United Arab of Emirates with the intention of crossing the border back to Saudi Arabia.
The determination to experience the freedom and liberation and desire to be independent and be able to drive has created The Women to Drive movement. As they note:
“Until June 2018, Saudi Arabia was the only country in the world in which women were forbidden from driving motor vehicles.[1] The Women to Drive Movement was a campaign by Saudi women, whom the government denies many rights to which men are entitled, for the right to drive motor vehicles on public roads. Dozens of women drove in Riyadh in 1990 and were arrested and had their passports confiscated.In 2007, Wajeha al-Huwaider and other women petitioned King Abdullah for the right to drive, and a film of al-Huwaider driving on International Women’s Day 2008 attracted international media attention.”
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I was fourteen years old when I first learned to drive and my father taught me. When I was 15, I received my driver’s license and was able to borrow my parent’s car. It seems so young to me now. But because 15 was often the start of a person’s working life, the legal driving age matched it. Some things were highly regulated in the 1960s and 70s, but it was relatively easy to get a driver’s license.
I can’t imagine not being able to drive. Let alone being arrested when I did so. I was 55 years young when I first drove a Ferrari, and the feelings of passion, fun and freedom have never left me.
I thought about these things as I was writing my book, Bought By The Sheikh.
BOUGHT BY THE SHEIKH is part of 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)
Here is a little excerpt:
The next day, Grace Hunt sat alone in her lavish office, her heart heavy with a mix of determination and longing. As Chairwoman of Dubai Ferrari, she was used to making tough decisions and commanding respect, but deep inside, a part of her yearned for something more.
Her office, a sprawling oasis of refined taste, was a testament to Grace’s impeccable style and her love for all things lavish. Every detail had been carefully curated to create an environment that exuded sophistication and power. Her eyes were drawn to the shimmering crystal chandelier that hung from the ceiling, casting a soft, ethereal glow over the room.
The walls, adorned with rich, velvety wallpaper in deep shades of burgundy and gold, nodded to Grace’s love for classic elegance. The room was filled with antique furniture, each piece meticulously chosen to complement the overall aesthetic.
She trailed her manicured fingers over the large, polished mahogany desk, commanding attention in the center of the room. Its surface was adorned with an array of exquisite stationery and a golden nameplate that proudly displayed Grace’s name and title.
Behind the desk, a wall of floor-to-ceiling windows offered a breathtaking view of Aibud’s city skyline. The windows were draped in sumptuous silk curtains, their deep crimson hue adding a touch of drama to the already breathtaking vista. On either side of the windows, towering bookshelves showcased a collection of leather-bound volumes, a testament to Grace’s love for literature and her thirst for knowledge.
She had come a long way, she reflected as she studied her surroundings, which transported her into a world where luxury and elegance reigned supreme.
Her thoughts drifted back to her painful past, to the relentless abuse inflicted upon her by her narcissistic mother and siblings. They had torn her down, belittled her every accomplishment, and shattered her self-worth. Grace had endured years of emotional torment, her spirit nearly broken.
But it was her father’s constant criticism that cut the deepest. His words had echoed in her mind long after he had passed away, reminding her that she was a girl, second-class, and would never be good enough. He had instilled in her a fear of failure, a fear that crippled her ambitions and left her doubting her own abilities.
As she sat there, surrounded by opulence, Grace’s gaze fell upon a photograph of a radiant mother cradling her child with unconditional love. It was a sight that stirred a deep longing within her, one that she had suppressed for far too long. She yearned to experience the joy of motherhood, to create a loving family of her own.
But Grace was acutely aware of the dark cloud that hung over her desires. The cycle of abuse that had plagued her own childhood was a specter she couldn’t ignore. She feared that if she were to have children, she would unknowingly perpetuate the pain and suffering she had endured.
Determined to break free from the chains of her past, Grace had founded the Frida Foundation, an organization dedicated to empowering oppressed women who aspired to drive. It was her way of giving back, of ensuring that other women wouldn’t have to endure the same struggles she had faced.
The foundation, named after the indomitable Frida Kahlo, aimed to provide opportunities for these women, teaching them to drive and giving them the tools to reclaim their independence. It was a cause close to Grace’s heart, a way for her to channel her longing for motherhood into something meaningful and transformative.
But as she poured her heart and soul into the foundation, a part of her couldn’t help but feel a pang of emptiness. The desire to have children of her own tugged at her, reminding her of the love and connection she longed for. She wondered if she could ever find a way to reconcile her conflicting desires.
Grace knew that her journey towards healing was far from over. She still carried the scars of her past, and the fear of perpetuating the cycle of abuse weighed heavily on her. But she was determined to rise above her pain, to create a brighter future for herself and for the women she sought to empower.
As the sun began to set, casting a warm glow over her office, Grace made a silent vow to herself. She would continue to fight for the oppressed women of the Frida Foundation, offering them a chance to reclaim their lives. And perhaps, in the process, she would find a way to reconcile her own conflicting desires and discover the path that would lead her to the family she had always longed for.

Sometimes, love is the greatest ride of all.
In the opulent and enchanting world of Arabian royalty, 31-year-old charismatic playboy Sheikh Prince Fazza na Hassir finds himself face-to-face with a challenge that will test his business acumen and his heart. When he sets his formidable business skills on acquiring the prestigious Ferrari company, little does he know that his life is about to collide with that of an extraordinary American woman.
Grace Hunt, a fiercely independent and brilliant CEO, has moved to Aibud to escape from her toxic family. Dedicating her life to revolutionizing the automobile industry, when she learns that a captivating Arabian prince wishes to acquire her beloved Ferrari brand, she is determined to resist his charms and protect her legacy.
Known for his wealth, power, and insatiable desire for beauty, things take a turn for the worse when Fazza tries to buy her affection. But Grace is not a woman who can be bought by the sheikh.
Bought By The Sheikh weaves a mesmerizing tale of love, passion, and destiny, set against the backdrop of opulent Arabian palaces and the thrilling world of luxury automobiles. Escape into a world where love knows no boundaries and where two souls, seemingly worlds apart, find solace and strength in each other.
Defying the odds and rewriting their destinies, Bought By The Sheikh reminds us that freedom is not worth having if it does not include the freedom to make mistakes and that sometimes, unconditional love is the greatest freedom of all.
A compelling and thrilling story about a powerful woman and her equally formidable opponent.
GET YOUR COPY PRE-ORDER TODAY…Preorder this book through the links below…
AMAZON US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CRR3XQ5M
AMAZON CA: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0CRR3XQ5M
AMAZON UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0CRR3XQ5M
AMAZON AU: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B0CRR3XQ5M
UNIVERSAL LINK: https://mybook.to/BoughtByTheSheikh
iBOOK, BARNES AND NOBLE, AND OTHER GREAT BOOKSTORES
https://books2read.com/u/mKXvo5
KOBO: https://www.kobo.com//en/ebook/bought-by-the-sheikh-1
The post Invest in women: Accelerate progress appeared first on Mollie Mathews.
February 26, 2024
Sicily: A story of love
Along with loving writing books and painting, I love to experience new cultures and I am interested in travel photography that tells a story – portraying people’s passions and/or that captures the essence and spirit of a place. Many moons ago I studied for a qualification in photography. In this week’s blog I share the six images I chose for my final photography assignment – I was only allowed six! I have deliberately chosen images that avoid clichéd images of Sicily and tell a story about the people – their passions and their culture.
As you’ll discover later in this blog, We traveled to Sicily to celebrate my partner’s 50th in May 2011. While there, we traveled to the island of Salina, one of the volcanic Aeolian Islands that form an archipelago off the northern coast of Sicily. From our idyllic holiday spot, we could see the island of Stromboli letting off steam. I once met a very interesting man from Stromboli and thought it would be fun to create a character from there. When the volcanic explosion happened in New Zealand, I wondered what would happen if a woman who survived a volcanic explosion and was terrified of volcanos fell in love with a man who loved volcanoes! And my love story, LOVE IN SICILY was born.

This image sums up so much of Sicily – the worn, old-world façade of this narrow street, the religious image on the door and the broken car which lends an insight into how people live and drive. The car tells its own story – the love heart (symbolic of their passion) and the bullet hole in the windscreen. I do hope the driver wasn’t the victim of a Mafia hit! I increased the vibrancy slightly to emphasise the red heart and to bring out the rich patina of the worn building facades.

I converted my colour image to black and white and added a sepia tone to increase the sense of timelessness and nostalgia of Corleone – made infamous by the movie The Godfather – as well as to add more drama. We spent a very, very, very memorable afternoon here after drinking Ouzo with a most charming elderly man.

The food of Sicily is divine in its simplicity. The Italians love their deserts and this desert image reflects the Sicilians ability to create food from the gods which has a spirit of minimalism and authenticity – less really is more. This desert is even more special because it is a bespoke desert whipped up for me especially. The chef was so very, very proud and I was delighted! The desert was soft in texture and I wanted to capture this by leaving the desert off focus – the edge of the plate has the harder focus – adding more contrast with the desert. I increased the vibrancy slightly to bring the richness of the custard and berry.

I wanted to capture the chaos, colour and beauty of this street side florist and the passion with which the people of Sicily live and work. The blurred rose and hand of the woman with its sense of movement evokes this chaos, passion and vitality. I cropped some clutter above their heads but left the chair, bolts of cloth and ribbons to echo the chaos around them.

This very talented chef was creating a work of art from a simple watermelon. I love the look of absolute concentration on his face and the tender way he holds the watermelon. I added some vibrancy and increased the brightness a little to compensate for the harsh light that slightly washed out his features.

The Vespa complete with mobile phone and family is quintessentially Italian – add the narrow streets and kids with a soccer ball and you really capture the Italian spirit. I increased the vibrancy levels and brightness to give more life and vitality to the image – as the street was in shadow when the image was originally taken.


The joy of stumbling across exiled Chilean poet, Pablo Neruda’s house, (also the setting for the Italian movie il postino and sitting blissfully in the rain.
I do miss my photography — must dust off my camera. I’d love to do a coffee table photobook sometime soon.

I hope you enjoyed seeing these memories. We traveled to Sicily to celebrate my partner’s 50th in May 2011. While there, we traveled to the island of Salina, one of the volcanic Aeolian Islands that form an archipelago off the northern coast of Sicily. From our idyllic holiday spot, we could see the island of Stromboli letting off steam. I once met a very interesting man from Stromboli and thought it would be fun to create a character from there. When the volcanic explosion happened in New Zealand, I wondered what would happen if a woman who survived a volcanic explosion and was terrified of volcanos fell in love with a man who loved volcanoes!
Love in Sicily: A later in life billionaire romance by Mollie MathewsSet in the dual locations of Sicily, Italy, and The Bay of Islands, New Zealand—some of the most beautiful, unspoiled, sensuous places in the world.

An unexpected lover…a volcano of exploding passions
★★★★★ ““Another heart-wrenching yet heart-healing story from this gifted author.”
After surviving a horrific accident, Kate 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 boutique Manuka honey business.
Billionaire business magnate Gianni Romano has ventured from Sicily to New Zealand driven by the crimes of his father and the memories he wants to escape. But the infamous Romano name and ill-gained fortune follow him wherever he goes. But this only makes 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—fiercely independent Kate Miller and her refusal to submit to his demands that she sells her business to him. Her passions are inflamed. How dare he think he can flaunt his considerable wealth and buy the only thing that gives her a reason to live?
The spark they have is hotter than a Sicilian sunset and conflict flames. When emotions run deep, and hearts are on the line, will mixing business with pleasure be the bedrock for lifelong love? Or will their love explode like an angry volcano?
Love In Sicily is a beautiful romance, brimming with the promise of a happily ever after. Set in the dual locations of Sicily, Italy, and The Bay of Islands, New Zealand—one of the most beautiful, unspoiled, sensuous places in the world.
LOVE IN SICILY is part of Mollie Mathews’ TRUE LOVE STORIES series starring Maverick Billionaires. While it can easily be read as a standalone story, you’ll likely enjoy reading the other books, too.
Other Novels by Mollie Mathews
TRUE LOVE STORIES
Love In Venice (Mauro and Maggie)
Love in Mexico (Oliver and Ruby)
Love in Montana (Lizzie and Jack)
Love In Sicily (Kate and Gianni)
YOU MAY ALSO ENJOY THE SHEIKHS UNTAMED BRIDES SERIES
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)
PRAISE FOR LOVE IN SICILYcaptivating romance!“I absolutely loved this romance book set in New Zealand’s Bay of Islands. Gianni has fled to New Zealand to flee from his family and Kate is in New Zealand running her global Manuka honey empire. Kate and Gianni are realistic, strong, independent, sexy, and confident. Kate is irate when Gianni demands she sell her business to him. Kate and Gianni are struggling with personal issues and just want to escape their lives. They end up having sparks that are hotter than an inferno. Their journey with each other is sensuous and in one of the most tranquil places in the world, their happily ever after came when they were at their most vulnerable. I recommend reading this phenomenal romance that will set you on fire, this author is extraordinary and knows how to captivate her reader’s hearts and attention with passion and hot, steamy romance.”
a great read“A great read. It has its share of angst and joy. Kate and Gianni have a lot of familial events that play into this story. Well-layered and the interaction, even when it comes to their need for a therapist, is really cool. Disaster and betrayal are balanced out with the realization that they have both dealt with volcanic activity, which leads to love. A quick and balanced read.”
another heart-wrenching yet heart healing story from this gifted author…“Loved the push & pull between the main protagonists. They both had horrific experiences & whilst she had physical scars & grieved the loss of her family with a heavy dose of self-blame, his were buried much deeper & yet he revealed everything. Loved her almost human mutt & the detailed well-written story that had a lot of angst but underpinning all the drama, the harsh words. they were so sexually connected that they could have put the stars to shame. Highly recommended.”
Buy this book through the links below…To enjoy your copy in ebook or paperback from Amazon:
US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CR2YK8TK
CA: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0CR2YK8TK
UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0CR2YK8TK
AU: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B0CR2YK8TK
Universal Link:
https://mybook.to/LoveInMexico
AUDIO and PAPERBACK BOOK COMING SOONThe audio version of this book will also available from all online bookstores and also librariesLOVE IN SICILY is part of Mollie Mathews’ TRUE LOVE STORIES series starring Maverick Billionaires. While it can easily be read as a standalone story, you’ll likely enjoy reading the other books, too.
TRUE LOVE STORIES
Love In Venice (Mauro and Maggie)
Love in Mexico (Oliver and Ruby)
Love in Montana (Lizzie and Jack)
Love In Sicily (Kate and Gianni)
YOU MAY ALSO ENJOY:Travel turns you into a storyteller
The post Sicily: A story of love appeared first on Mollie Mathews.
February 23, 2024
Travel turns you into a storyteller
Embarking on a journey to distant lands not only broadens our horizons but also awakens a dormant storyteller within us. Travel has the incredible power to ignite our imagination, fuel our creativity, and transform us into captivating storytellers. In this blog post, we will explore how travel can unlock the storyteller within and forever change the way we share our experiences with the world.
BOOKS AND TRAVEL
1. The Tapestry of Cultures
When we venture beyond the familiar, we immerse ourselves in a tapestry of diverse cultures, customs, and traditions. Each new encounter becomes a chapter in our own personal narrative. As we absorb the sights, sounds, and flavors of different lands, our stories begin to take shape. The vibrant markets, bustling streets, and ancient ruins become the backdrop for the tales we will weave.
2. Embracing the Unknown
Traveling often involves stepping outside of our comfort zones and embracing the unknown. Whether it’s navigating through foreign cities, trying exotic cuisines, or engaging in unfamiliar activities, these experiences become the raw material for our stories. The moments of uncertainty and the unexpected adventures become the plot twists that make our tales all the more compelling.
3. Connecting with People
One of the most powerful aspects of travel is the opportunity to connect with people from all walks of life. The locals we encounter along our journey become the characters in our stories. Their stories intertwine with ours, creating a tapestry of human experiences. From the elderly storyteller in a quaint village to the young street performer in a bustling city, each person we meet adds depth and richness to our own narrative.
4. Finding Inspiration in Nature
Nature, in all its glory, has a way of inspiring the storyteller within us. From the majestic mountains to the tranquil beaches, the vast deserts to the lush rainforests, the beauty of the natural world sparks our imagination. The awe-inspiring landscapes become the canvas on which we paint our stories, capturing the essence of the places we have explored.
5. Reflecting on Personal Transformation
Travel is not just about the external journey; it is also about the internal transformation that takes place within us. As we navigate through different cultures, face challenges, and embrace new experiences, we grow as individuals. Our personal growth becomes the underlying theme of our stories, adding depth and meaning to our narratives.
Travel nourishes my creativity
LOVE STORIES SET IN MEXICOTravel always inspires me and nourishes my creativity. Some moons ago now, I used to manage several travel agencies and often travelled on my own, including to Egypt, Israel and Jordan, to experience holiday destinations so I could recommend them to my clients.
In 1999, I decided to fly solo to Mexico and travel with a winemaker I had met after an eventful New Year’s Eve the year before. He was a fellow Kiwi who had returned to NZ briefly and was living and working in Mexico and was a good friend of my best friend.
When I flew to Mexico City from my home in Wellington, I had absolutely no idea of the scale and size of the place. My tiny city, once voted the coolest little capital in the world by Lonely Planet and where I also set my book Twist of Fate, has a tiny little population of around 418,000 people!!
The estimated population of Mexico is approximately 129 million people. New Zealand’s population is only 5 million!
I couldn’t speak a word of Spanish, and I couldn’t even be sure that the person I was flying to meet would be at the airport in Mexico City to greet me. What if he had forgotten? This was before cellphones! The estimated population of Mexico City including the entire metropolitan area, which includes the surrounding areas, the population is estimated to be around 21 million people. As I flew over the vast landscape, I suddenly realised with a heart-pounding shock the enormity of the risk I was taking.
Happily, it worked out beautifully. I had some wonderful, unforgettable experiences, stayed in some heart-stompingly beautiful places and met some lifelong friends, including Joe and Gerry and their family who live in New York. I have set a couple of my love stories there, including Christmas For One.

While staying in Oaxaca, I had a memorable experience when cycling back from the UNESCO site of Monte Albán, which is one of Mexico’s most jaw-dropping ruins, continuously inhabited over a span of 1,500 years by Zapotec, Mixtec, and Olmec peoples. As I cycled down the hill, I was surrounded by a cloud of butterflies. In part, the experience inspired my latest love story, Love in Mexico.
The butterfly theme that so many of my readers love is also inspired by tales of the amazing migration of Monarch butterflies to Mexico every year during the winter months. They travel from the United States and Canada to specific regions in Mexico, primarily to the states of Michoacán and Mexico. where the climate and habitat are nourishing for the butterflies to hibernate and reproduce. The Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve, located in the states of Michoacán and Mexico, is a popular destination for tourists to witness the incredible phenomenon of millions of monarch butterflies clustering together in the oyamel fir forests.
Love in Mexico is an expanded version of my book, Flight of Passion. There are quite a few additional scenes, including several beautiful weddings, but I don’t want to give away too much!
I’ve several of my books in New Zealand. Readers tell me it is one of the places they long to see.

The Passion Down Under Sassy Short Stories 6 Book-Bundle Box Set contains stand-alone fun and frisky later-in-life, small-town romance books set in beautiful locations all around New Zealand.
AMAZON US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CVRBG532
AMAZON CA: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0CVRBG532
AMAZON UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0CVRBG532
AMAZON AU: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B0CVRBG532
UNIVERSAL LINK: https://mybook.to/6SassyShortStories

“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.”
Set in the dual locations of Auckland and the South Island of New Zealand
Buy this book through the links below…To grab your copy from Amazon>> getBook.at/ScandalousMarriage
To grab your copy from iBooks, Barnes & Noble and other great bookstores,>>https://books2read.com/u/mVNdn5
To grab your copy from Kobo>>https://www.kobo.com/ebook/the-italian-billionaire-s-scandalous-marriage-1
LOVE STORIES SET IN FIJITHE ITALIAN BILLIONAIRE’S CHRISTMAS BRIDE
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.
Buy this book through the links below…AMAZON
US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01LM8SWAI
CA: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B01LM8SWAI
UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01LM8SWAI
AU: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B01LM8SWAI
Universal link: http://getBook.at/ChristmasBride
To enjoy your copy from Ibooks, Kobo, Barnes & Noble and other great bookstores, click here>>https://books2read.com/u/3LpDa7
LOVE STORIES SET IN ITALYLove in SicilyDate: 13th February 2024, Posted by mollie
Set in the dual locations of Sicily, Italy, and The Bay of Islands, New Zealand—some of the most beautiful, unspoiled, sensuous places in the world.
Love in Sicily: A later in life billionaire romance by Mollie Mathews

An unexpected lover…a volcano of exploding passions
★★★★★ ““Another heart-wrenching yet heart-healing story from this gifted author.”
After surviving a horrific accident, Kate 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 boutique Manuka honey business.
Billionaire business magnate Gianni Romano has ventured from Sicily to New Zealand driven by the crimes of his father and the memories he wants to escape. But the infamous Romano name and ill-gained fortune follow him wherever he goes. But this only makes 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—fiercely independent Kate Miller and her refusal to submit to his demands that she sells her business to him. Her passions are inflamed. How dare he think he can flaunt his considerable wealth and buy the only thing that gives her a reason to live?
The spark they have is hotter than a Sicilian sunset and conflict flames. When emotions run deep, and hearts are on the line, will mixing business with pleasure be the bedrock for lifelong love? Or will their love explode like an angry volcano?
Love In Sicily is a beautiful romance, brimming with the promise of a happily ever after. Set in the dual locations of Sicily, Italy, and The Bay of Islands, New Zealand—one of the most beautiful, unspoiled, sensuous places in the world.

3rd PRIZE RWNZ EXCELLENCE IN ROMANCE AWARD
One summer could change everything. . .
When two hopelessly mismatched people share a love for art, a passion for love, and a city like Venice, nothing is truly impossible…or is it?
a warmly romantic story
“Love In Venice is a warmly romantic story. I loved that their hearts seemed to speak to each other almost from their first meeting. I love that we get to see how their lives unfold and their beautiful love for each other. The story has a wonderful flow and beautiful and vivid descriptions. I could envision myself in Venice – seeing the canal, the cobblestoned streets, the architecture and more. There are family, friends, and lots of heart-to-heart moments between Maggie and Mauro. There is sadness and tears, euphoria, romance and love. There is also art brought in – music and painting that touched their souls and mine. There is a happily ever after that was portrayed better than I hoped. The epilogue adds an additional layer to the story and briefly brings in characters we’ve met in other books. Ms Mathews is an author whose books I enjoy. She always transports me to someplace new with a cast of characters I grow to love. Give her books a try if you haven’t already!”
~ JoAnne W.
AMAZON US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B7Q9LDCP
AMAZON CA: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0B7Q9LDCP
AMAZON UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0B7Q9LDCP
AMAZON AU: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B0B7Q9LDCP
iBOOK, BARNES AND NOBLE, AND OTHER GREAT BOOKSTORES: https://books2read.com/u/bPgV0Y
KOBO: https://www.kobo.com/en/ebook/love-in-venice
AUDIO
KOBO
https://www.kobo.com/us/audiobook/love-in-venice-1
The audio version is also available from other online retailers and libraries for your listening pleasure.
AUDIBLE
AUDIBLE US: https://www.audible.com/pd/Love-in-Venice-Audiobook/B0BBH8S35L
AUDIBLE UK: https://www.audible.co.uk/pd/Love-in-Venice-Audiobook/B0BBHCNBW6
AUDIBLE AU: https://www.audible.com.au/pd/Love-in-Venice-Audiobook/B0BBH927T6

Sheikhs Untamed Brides Box Set Books 1-2: Second Chance, Secret Baby Romance
★★★★★ “The depth of emotions touched my heart!”
This is a sweet and clean sheikh romance boxed set from award-winning author Mollie Mathews. Filled with sweet, enthralling tales of sheikh romance, set in a number of fictional Middle Eastern kingdoms, and featuring a host of maverick, handsome sheik romantic heroes, it’s a great value boxed set featuring two books at a bargain price!
Claimed by The Sheikh
The secret she kept from the Sheikh…
A grief-stricken Sheikh Tariq na Hassir, the formidable ruler of the Kingdom of Avana, arrives in Paris to claim his brother’s child after a car crash killed his parents–only to find out from the hospital that the child isn’t their biological son. Salim is Tariq’s son, with his former lover, a renowned architect.
Three years ago, after being banished by Tariq from his desert kingdom, Melanie Jones secretly gave her baby to Tariq’s childless brother and his wife, in a swap the world was never supposed to discover.
The tragedy pulls her back to the world that rejected her and the man who abandoned her—the only man capable of turning her carefully controlled world upside down.
Tariq will do whatever it takes to protect his legacy, including claiming Melanie as his bride and his son as heir before scandals ensue. But Melanie has other plans for her future—a westernized life where she’s free to operate her own business, control her life, and hold onto her wish that one day she’ll meet a man who loves her for who she truly is.
Stolen By The Sheikh
Fiercely independent contemporary artist Lucy Ford was absolutely content with her life—until the day maverick Sheikh Anwar na Hassir strolled into her gallery and back into her life. Anwar could not, would not, must not ever know the truth. Not if she was to keep her child.
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 that love, once given, can never be returned.
If you love second-chance romances after heartbreak books, you’ll love these exotic secret baby romances.
Exclusive to KU
LOVE IN THE USA!Will Ruby find love this Christmas?44-year-old Ruby Evans doesn’t want to be a ‘leftover girl’ —especially at Christmas. But finding a ‘forever’ man is proving impossible.
A single mum after 20 years of marriage, her husband is the only man she has ever slept with. But the one bit of security she always thought she’d hold onto for the rest of her life is brutally ripped from her.
Living the worst cliche she is is humiliatingly and cruelly ex-ed when her husband trades her for a younger model. Chanel Zest, a long-time friend and unconventional, X-rated life coach, comes to her rescue. Together, they embark on a quest to reclaim and rebuild Ruby’s shattered life and find love again.
But, once in a pink moon, Ruby has to play dirty…
But then, a chance meeting with a stranger threatens to unravel all her secrets. Will Ruby be exposed or finally get everything she wished for? Will she find true love or be alone this Christmas after all?
Full of quirky humour and the promise of a happily ever after. Christmas For One is a warm, festive romance with a few spicy bits.
You’ll love Christmas For One if you love Jojo Moyes and enjoy a romantic comedy.
“Mollie delivers with this artfully compelling, skilfully enthralling rollercoaster. Divvying out some festive frolicking, seasonal cheer and holiday magic, whipping this sweet treat into shape perfectly.”

AMAZON US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CMGSZ95G
AMAZON CA: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0CMGSZ95G
AMAZON UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0CMGSZ95G
AMAZON AU: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B0CMGSZ95G
Universal link: https://mybook.to/ChristmasForOne
To enjoy your copy from Apple, Kobo, Barnes and Noble, and other great bookstores: https://books2read.com/u/bQg2eP
AUDIOBOOKAUDIBLE US: https://www.audible.com/pd/B0CVR2JHXP
AUDIBLE UK: https://www.audible.co.uk/pd/B0CVR3F811
AUDIBLE AU: https://www.audible.com.au/pd/B0CVR1YM23
KOBO: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/audiobook/christmas-for-one-7
Love In Montana
I’ve always dreamed of writing a love story set in Montana. I know you’re going to love it!
Pretending to fall in love has never been so easy…
A Fake Marriage Romance
Billionaire rancher Jack Archer would give every dollar to bring his mother and father back from the fatal car crash that killed them when he was only four. Instead of starting fresh, he’s tied to the ranch his parents created from scratch, and he loves every wild acre of it. When his grandfather demands that he find a bride or lose his inheritance, the legacy his dad and mom helped build for him, Jack is furious. He loves his freedom, and he doesn’t want a wife. But he’ll do what it takes. He needs a bride, and he needs her fast.
New York doctor Elizabeth Buckley has lost everything. First, the man she thought she’d marry, then her reputation, and then her job, following the brutal, back-stabbing, slanderous betrayal by her best friend. Former best friend, make that. She escapes into fantasy and decides to channel her inner Beth Dutton and escape for 3 weeks to Montana. In a fateful moment, she meets a handsome heart throbbing cowboy, and unexpected flames spark to life inside her broken heart. But she is suspicious when Jack makes a crazy offer of marriage in exchange for the money she needs to rebuild her life.
Three weeks. Two hearts. One fake engagement…one wedding?
Will opposites attract or be forced apart as they choose between life and love?
Fans of Sarah Morgan and Danielle Steel will love this feel-good romance!
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.
THE TRUE LOVE SERIES
Love In Venice (3rd prize, Koru Excellence in Romance Award)
Love in Montana
PRE-ORDER NOW…Pre-order this book through the links below…
US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CRR3VDYP
CA: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0CRR3VDYP
UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0CRR3VDYP
AU: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B0CRR3VDYP
Universal Link: https://mybook.to/LoveInMontanaBook
iBooks, Barnes & Noble and other great bookstores: https://books2read.com/u/3JGv9K
travel truly has the power to change lives and the way we share our stories with the worldTravel has the remarkable ability to unleash the storyteller within us. By venturing into the unknown, connecting with people, finding inspiration in nature, and reflecting on personal transformation, we create a treasure trove of stories waiting to be shared. So, let us embrace the transformative power of travel and embark on journeys that not only take us to new places but also turn us into captivating storytellers. Let the world hear our tales and be inspired to embark on their own adventures, for travel truly has the power to change lives and the way we share our stories with the world.
Sending you much love and wishing you the happiest, most joyful, love-filled 2024.
Thank you for being part of my community and loving my stories
Enjoy book two in the True Love Series, Love In Venice>>Enjoy other full-length contemporary romancesby Mollie Mathews:Bride of Gold; Married by Christmas; Claimed by The Sheikh
The post Travel turns you into a storyteller appeared first on Mollie Mathews.
February 21, 2024
Free chapter Claimed By The Sheikh
Hi my loves
I hope you enjoy this excerpt from Claimed By The Sheikh. It features a special scene where Salim, the young child, was pulled from the car wreckage that killed his parents (no spoiler alert- if you’ve read this love story, you’ll know what I mean!)
CHAPTER 50
“I thought it was what you wanted.” Tariq stood in the guesthouse doorway, watching Melanie thrust clothes into her suitcase.
“This will be your home,” Tariq said. “We will raise our son together. You will want for nothing. You can build a life here. A career. A reputation. All that you have ever desired.”
“This is not my home. My life is in London. Oh, my goodness, Tariq. Why are you making this difficult? You don’t want a difficult wife any more than I want a controlling husband.”
“I will not lose my son.”
“And I will not give him up. Not again. So, what? You will marry me, and we will be a happy family? Is that what you believe? Our parents tried that, and how did that work out?” she threw at him.
“I don’t want Salim to be a motherless boy like I was. I won’t allow him the indignity and disgrace of being a bastard, so I will take you as my wife. Problem solved.”
“You will take me?” she said, throwing a book of orchid photography in her case. “Problem solved?”
“Yes, isn’t that what you say in the West? Do you take this woman as your lawful wedded wife?”
Melanie frowned and exhaled a breath of loud disbelief. “For an educated man, you’re pretty ignorant. Wedding vows have evolved since those archaic misogynistic rites. We’ve evolved. Women no longer regard themselves as a man’s property. As usual, men have been slow to catch up. But it’s all semantics. No matter what words you choose, you’re missing the point.”
“I am?”
“Yes, contrary to your belief, marriage is a partnership. A woman has to agree. As in, ‘Do you, Melanie Lenore Jones, take this Sheikh, Tariq na Hassir, as your lawful wedded husband?’ And I don’t. I don’t want a belligerent sheikh. I don’t want a reluctant husband. And I definitely don’t want to marry a man out of a sense of duty.”
She thrust forward the picture of a giraffe family Salim had drawn. Her heart clutched as she studied the happy yellow polka-dotted daddy and mommy giraffe, standing with their pink polka-dotted son, their faces beaming with joy.
“Salim wants a family. A happy family. He wants, needs, and deserves love—and you haven’t said you love me or him since you found out the truth. Not once. Just the opposite. You’ve made it clear that you despise me. My only worth to you is my ability to design a landmark building. Well. I’ve done that. I kept my side of the bargain. Now I’m asking you to do something for me. I’m asking you to let me leave with my son.”
“I can’t.”
“You can, and you bloody well will. I’ve spent years trailing and stumbling and clawing my way through sheer hard work and torturous hours along the misguided path to self-worth, imprisoned by my fear of not living up to my father’s ambition for me to be a famous architect.”
Melanie flung her traditional Arabic dresses into her suitcase. “I’ve spent years believing my self-worth depended on achieving career success,” Melanie continued. “So, I guess I should thank you. You’ve taught me that the real path to self-worth isn’t how famous or good I am at my job—it’s how good I am as a woman, person, and parent. It’s about being true to myself and opening my heart. I did that. I gave you my heart. But you never gave me yours. I told you I loved you—and you, Tariq? What did you do?”
Tariq stood mutely, stiff as a sentry, stoic and silent.
“Yes, that’s right. Nothing. You will do anything to avoid experiencing loss again—even if it means losing out on true love. Even if it means denying Salim a real family. You’re imprisoned by your mistrust and your refusal to love fully. As long as you cut yourself off from others, as long as you cage how you feel, as long as you hold onto your judgmental standards of absolute perfection, you will never feel fulfilled. And you’ll never be able to give me or Salim what we need. Unconditional, authentic love.”
“So no, Tariq. I won’t take you as my lawfully wedded husband. And I won’t be your obedient wife.”
“Have you finished?” he said. “I came to tell you I was wrong,” he walked toward her. ‘This whole confounded situation is wrong,” his tone was low, his emotions guarded as he studied her face for her reaction. “If it weren’t for my father, none of this would have happened. We would have been together. I forgive you. I’ve behaved like a child. Can you find it in your heart to forgive me?”
She couldn’t breathe. She couldn’t focus. She couldn’t concentrate on what he had just said because she wanted to run away from him, and she wanted to run into his arms at the same time. But she still hadn’t heard the three little words confirming the grand truth.
Enjoy Tariq and Melanie’s sensual love story:
AMAZON US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07YBN6JG7
AMAZON CA: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B07YBN6JG7
AMAZON UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07YBN6JG7
AMAZON AU: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B07YBN6JG7
UNIVERSAL LINK: https://mybook.to/ClaimedByTheSheikh
iBOOK, BARNES AND NOBLE, AND OTHER GREAT BOOKSTORES: https://books2read.com/u/brVjdZ
Enjoy more free sample chapters:
CLAIMED BY THE SHEIKH 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)
Other Novels by Mollie Mathews
TRUE LOVE STORIES
Love In Venice (Mauro and Maggie)
Love in Mexico (Oliver and Ruby)
Love in Montana (Lizzie and Jack)
Love In Sicily (Kate and Gianni)

P.S! Do you enjoy short stories? You’ll love my new release…Passion Down Under Sassy Short Stories 6 Book-Bundle Box Set: Small Town Romance
New Release…Passion Down Under Sassy Short Stories 6 Book-Bundle Box Set: Small Town Romance
★★★★★ “These are rare, delightful, well-written short stories that, despite their short length, are really good and don’t lack anything.”
The Passion Down Under Sassy Short Stories 6 Book-Bundle Box Set contains stand-alone fun and frisky later-in-life, small-town romance romance books by award-winning author Mollie Mathews.
Twist of Fate (Jonathon and Danni)
Still reeling following his unexpected divorce, billionaire Tech guru Jonathan James has returned home feeling disillusioned and low in spirits. The last thing he needs when he flies home from London to New Zealand is complications.
When a baggage mix-up leaves him with nothing but a suitcase full of stilettos, lush lashes, and Dolly Parton-like wigs, he goes in search of the owner. He quickly discovers that all is not as it seems as his life takes off in a hilarious and unexpected direction.
Love Me Forever (Joey and Tomasso)
Viticulturist Joey Harper’s organic vineyard is under siege from neighboring landowners with chemical sprays who want to turn a fast profit and someone purchasing large tracts of land under incredible secrecy.
Venetian winemaking tycoon Tomasso Rivetti has it all: a loving family, good looks, and a considerable fortune. When he ventures Down Under to New Zealand, underneath his apparently perfect world, cracks begin to appear…and no one is more surprised than Tomasso when the billionaire lifestyle he takes for granted is turned upside down by a chance encounter.
Forever and Always (Lily and Leonardo)
Still reeling following her malicious sacking, family therapist Lily Rose is feeling rejected and low in spirits. Even worse, she’s broke. Two weeks before Christmas, 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.
Love Me As I Am (Kiri and Benotti)
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. But when her mother is murdered, she sacrifices her ambitions and travels back to the tiny Far North town that 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 groveling to Benotti Zegna, reclusive billionaire jeweler-to-the-stars.
The Lightkeeper’s Lover (Lucy and Andrew)
When their world crashes, will their love meet the test? A woman who flees from love and a man who can’t keep it.
Finding a Husband (Julie and Oliver)
Amateur matchmaker Cassie Roberts has only one wish—to help her best friend find a husband. What she doesn’t realize is that sometimes love doesn’t come easily, and destiny is impossible to predict. When her efforts don’t bear fruit, she considers abandoning her fledgling career until she makes one last attempt.
AMAZON US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CVRBG532
AMAZON CA: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0CVRBG532
AMAZON UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0CVRBG532
AMAZON AU: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B0CVRBG532
UNIVERSAL LINK: https://mybook.to/6SassyShortStories
Audio and Paperback coming soon

You may also enjoy a little post I shared about my studio on www.Thejoyfulartist.co.nz
https://www.thejoyfulartist.co.nz/my-space/
Sending you all my love – thanks for reading xxxx
The post Free chapter Claimed By The Sheikh appeared first on Mollie Mathews.
February 13, 2024
Valentine’s romances
Dearest friends,
Last year, a huge cyclone was storming our way and arrived Valentine’s Day! Cyclone Gabrielle, a severe category three storm, was one of the most serious storms to hit NZ this century. Weather can be a character all of its own and often forces the lovers together:) Did you read and enjoy Married by Christmas, also released as the Italian Billionaire’s Christmas Bride? There’s a wonderful storm scene. Here’s a little excerpt from Chapter 18, before the two lovers are forced together:

I’ve released this story as part of a two book box.
‘Hit me with another,’ Max set the crystal tumbler down onto the granite bar harder than he should. The bartender turned at the sound and glanced back at his supervisor. The older Fijian nodded slowly, his eyes signaling his understanding, as though sensing the conflict stabbing Max’s heart. No doubt they’d both seen their share of normally sober guests at Max’s resort drowning their conflicting emotions in a heady mix of alcohol.
Fire and ice, Max mused clenching the tumbler as he stared at the rocks of ice submerged like the Titanic below the burnt orange hue of the whiskey. Like a nymph from a Waterhouse painting, Issy’s face shimmered on the surface of the amber liquid—ethereal, desirous, seductive.
If he wasn’t such a rational man he’d think she had cast a spell over him. Why else would a plain Jane make him so reckless? Yet she wasn’t plain. Not in the way ordinary girls were. There was something unique about Issy and it was driving him crazy.
Either that, he decided, or the surgeons that had operated on him meddled with a vital valve in his heart—joining it up with a circuit of feeling he would prefer remained defunct.
‘Quei bastardi. You sad, sorry fuck,’ he cursed, pushing the glass aside unwilling to block out what he knew he must face. He had acted irrationally and irresponsibly, dressing her like a siren and driving her to him, only to find he couldn’t stand the heat. Drinking wouldn’t obliterate his guilt. He’d already lost control once. It was a mistake he didn’t plan to repeat.
Anger slapped inside his stomach as the sky rumbled with the threat of rain. Two sets of parents had repeatedly taught him how easily vows could be broken. “You’re just like your father,” his mother threw at him every time she was displeased. Her relentless attacks were like one giant affirmation. But maybe she was right. He was just like his father.
A heartless philanderer.

Gemstone Billionaires Series Box Set: Two Sexy New Zealand Romances: Italian Billionaire Brides: The Italian Billionaire’s Scandalous Marriage, The Italian Billionaire’s Christmas Bride
★★★★★ “I really love the two novels in this box set. An absolute delight to read.
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
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
People often ask me what inspires my love stories. Very often, it’s something I have read in the news. Italian Billionaire’s Christmas Bride is one example. I share more in the Author’s Note.
The idea for this story was sparked when I read about a very successful Italian fashion-tycoon who said, ‘My biggest regret is that I gave my life to my job.’ It struck me as very, very sad.
I wondered why he had chosen to live his life this way. Despite all his wealth, all his mansions around the world, and all the ‘fans’ who adored him for the identity he had carefully cultivated, he loved no one and no one loved him back for who he truly was.
Although he never said it outright, he’d thrown himself into his work following the death of his life partner. His work was pure escapism—protecting him from feeling the pain of loss again.
He’d originally trained as a medic but after experiencing the horrors of war, he sought refuge in a fantasy world.
As a child, he’d loved the glitz and glamor Hollywood offered. After a brief stint in the war where he witnessed the deaths of friends, he found an escape from the harshness of reality returning to the fantasy of Hollywood
I wondered what sort of woman would be able to touch this frozen man at the deepest level? Everything in his life was controlled measured, predictably precise. I wondered what if the darkness of the past, his unhealed wounds began to impact his work, stifling his creativity and threatening to destroy everything he had fought so hard to achieve?
I wondered what if, as part of his recovery, he was forced to spend time with a woman so opposite in every way to the order he imposed in his life? And what if this woman was a children’s art therapist? A woman unimpressed by the fame and fortune he’d amassed, but who believed strongly in the power of play, fun, and spontaneity—things he considered reckless.
What if this woman had the power to transform his life, and he hers—but they were both afraid. Hearts have been broken, love lost, trust betrayed. What if this woman had her own wounds? Don’t we all?
What would it take to make all the masks fall? To be vulnerable? To risk it all? What would it take, in spite of the fear, to believe you deserve, you want, you need to give love a second chance?
Claimed by the Sheikh, is another example of a new item sparking a love story. It was partly inspired by the tragedy in 2015 that took the lives of former New Zealand sporting star, All Black legend Jerry Collins and his Canadian partner Alana Madill in France. The crash happened at 3:10am along the highway near Béziers on the way to the city of Montpellier. They died instantly, and their baby daughter was taken to Montpellier hospital in a critical condition.
I cried such tears thinking of that baby being left an orphan. It really worried me that she would be left in the world with no parents to love and care for her. So I wondered―what if her parents weren’t really dead? What if the two people that died were the baby’s adoptive parents? What if her biological parents were very much alive?
And then, as writers are want to do, I thought, what if the biological father was an extraordinarily wealthy sheikh who was unaware that he had fathered a child?

AMAZON US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07YBN6JG7
AMAZON CA: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B07YBN6JG7
AMAZON UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07YBN6JG7
AMAZON AU: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B07YBN6JG7
UNIVERSAL LINK: https://mybook.to/ClaimedByTheSheikh
iBOOK, BARNES AND NOBLE, AND OTHER GREAT BOOKSTORES: https://books2read.com/u/brVjdZ
What I’ve been watchingI recently watched the movie, “I Care A Lot.” Rosamund Pike plays a con artist who steals from the elderly by deceiving judges to appoint her has their “legal guardian” and then proceeeds to steal all their assets.
I love the mix of drama and comedy—my fav genres. Having a darker character is something I’d like to write.

I had a fun catch-up with friends last night in a local wine bar. “I need to spend more time pampering my husband,” my friend confided. ‘What’s a good Valentine’s Day gift?”
My other friend and I laughed and said, Shorts! He really needs new shorts.” (Her husband’s shorts are so worn and ripped! And then we got giggling and said, “make them edible!”
“What flavour?” she asked.
“Chocolate!”
I suggested she read my book Sex With Strangers. “There’s a great scene about how to seduce a man with food, including edible underwear!” Enjoy a wee excerpt from Chapter 28:
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Before I leave for the night Chanel and I meet for a drink and she gives me some final coaching on how to have sex like a man.
“First you need to set the scene. So far you’ve been on a couple of dates and no sex. Guys like to be champions and true champions are the ones who can turn a casual date into a bonk. You must be sending out the wrong vibes or he would have bonked you by now, darling.”
“We’ve just been having so much fun, enjoying each other’s company that it’s never come up,” I say, despondently.
Chanel arches an eyebrow, “It’s never come up? Believe me, with men, it always comes up.” She raises her forefinger in the air to add further affect. “You need to take control and break the physical boundaries.”
“He kissed my cheek. Does that count?”
Chanel rolls her eyes up to the heavens and back.
“Alright point taken. Maybe he’s just not into me.”
“He’s calling you, isn’t he? Showing you attention? Asking you on dates…believe me, he’s into you, darling. He just needs a little encouragement.”
“I don’t want to seem too forward. Shouldn’t guys take the lead?”
Chanel’s hands fly to her hips. “What have I been telling you all along?”
“Guys need to be given the nod,” I reply.
“Exactly! So while you’re out tonight accidentally brush his leg with your hand. Smile a lot. Show him you’re having a good time.”
“That shouldn’t be hard. We’re going to a comedy club!” I tell her.
“Good. Smile, even if the jokes aren’t funny and make sure you make eye contact, all the time. Don’t break it. That’s fatal. Toward the end of the evening give him your best bedroom eyes. Eyeball him with ‘I want your body’ emblazoned in your eyes. This is crucial, but I recognise that it doesn’t come naturally to most people. It definitely doesn’t come naturally to you, “Chanel says. “Only a small number of people have their bedroom eyes on all the time. These people can be digging in the garden, singing in the choir, cutting their own hair, or filing their income tax, but their bedroom eyes are always on.”
“That sounds hazardous to your health.”
“Yes, in the best way possible,” Chanel laughs.
“They must be getting propositioned all the time! How’s this?” I say trying to put on my best bedroom eyes.
“Fine if you’re trying to say, ‘can you pass me the remote’, but crap otherwise. Geeze, Ruby, you can write the sex stuff but when it comes to getting hot and saucy you look like you’ve got stage fright. It’s more like this.”
Chanel tosses back her hair and then lets it fall forward. She lowers her head then looks up slowly with her best ‘come hither you sexy beast, take me, take me into your cave and make me your women’ look.
She would win an Oscar for her outstanding performance.
“When you finally get him into the sack,” she continues, “and believe me that shouldn’t take long once you give him the nudge, I guarantee he’ll take over. Oh, that reminds me, whatever you do don’t apologise for your body.”
“But my breasts sag, I have stretch marks. . . and. . .”
“Stop! What have I told you about that negative self-talk? Five self-esteem press-ups on the spot!”
“I’m loving, I’m loyal, I’m fun to be with, I’m . . . I’m generous . . . I’m. . .”
“You’re sexy, Ruby. Sexy. Think like a man. Men are attracted to women because they have all the bits and pieces they don’t have. They couldn’t give a monkey’s what state your bits and pieces are in as long as you have the opposite bits to them. Variety is the spice of life— especially for Aquarians like Fergus. Strut your stuff in the bedroom and he’ll go wild for you.”
“Okay! Okay! Strut my stuff. Maybe I should play some music to get us in the mood.”
“Sure why not. Leave it with me. I’ll load some up in the iPod — just leave it to me. All you’ll have to do is push play. I’ll cobble together a few appetisers for you too. Just to help get things in the mood. The way to a man’s hot spot is through his stomach.”
“Ohh, you mean to serve him food like asparagus and other aphrodisiacs.”
“I was thinking more along the lines of edible underwear and chocolate tattoos with erotic words etched in tantalising places!” Chanel says.
“Gosh, there really is a lot to do, isn’t there. When Jon and I had sex we’d just roll into bed, wham bam three minutes it would be over, thank you, mam.”
“Bad sex is easy to whip up—like instant noodles that still leave you unsatisfied. If you want great sex, that takes planning. You need to create an atmosphere, you need to create some mystery, some excitement, some sense of longing and lingering—not plunging in like some kid diving in a pool.”
“Gotcha. But where am I going to get the edible underwear?”
“Don’t worry. I’ll handle that. We can go together if you like. There’s a great sex shop on Columbus Street.”
“I don’t know, Chanel.”
“Put it down to research for your blog. You may even find a naughty nurse’s uniform. Didn’t you say that you thought Fergus was coming down with a cold?”
“Look, I’ll try the edible underwear, Chanel, but only because I’m curious, but there’s no way you’re going to get me to dress up as a nurse,” I say half-seriously as I gather up my things. “I have to fly. I’ve got an important press conference for work.”
“One last piece of advice before you go . . . Enjoy yourself! ” Chanel passes me a bottle of oil. “This will help the passion flow and anxiety go. It’s my special seduction blend. Ylang-ylang, rose, jasmine and cedar wood. It will help loosen you up and turn him on. But be warned—a little goes a long way,” she says.
I kiss her and head out the door.
“Don’t forget to make some noise!“ she yells. “Men like to know a woman is having a good time. Grunt, groan—do the lot. Tell him how good it feels. And be sure to enjoy those orgasms.”
Well you could have heard a pin prick a balloon. The whole bar came to a stop as people turn and stare at me. I stand as still as a startled deer in headlights, too mortified to move.
“She’s having sex for the first time since her divorce,” Chanel crows proudly as she hands out her business cards. “This will be the second man she’s ever done it with. I’ve been helping her master how to have sex with strangers.”
So much for discretion and the confidentiality of the coaching relationship, I think as a round of applause cracks through the air.
I throw Chanel my best I’ll get you for this look and run from the bar.
I arrive at work thirty minutes later to finish a few last minute things, followed by creepy Matt Loews.
“I was at Deliciao…I couldn’t help but overhear—hell they may as well have used a loud hailer. So, you’re going to score? Who’s the lucky man. Anyone I know?” he moves towards me. “I’ve always had a thing for you Ruby, I’d be happy to give you some first hand coaching, if you get my drift,” he says, pinching me on the bum.
I spring back and slap him. “Thanks but no thanks, Matthew, my husband has taught me very well. Now, if you don’t want to end up with a harassment suit, I’d suggest you keep your hands to yourself.”
“Word on the street is your ex-husband was the three minute noodle—laziest shag on the block,” Matt says dropping his hand casually. “I feel sorry for you.”
“You know what they say, longer’s not always better, Matt. You of all people should know that.”
Matt scowls briefly then snickers. “If I were you I wouldn’t make an enemy out of me, Evans.” He places a short stubby finger on my chin and slowly traces it down my neck, then dips it under my collar and brushes his hand close to the cup of my lacy bra.
“Before you get any ideas, Evans, this never happened,” he says pinching my nipple before withdrawing his hand.“Nobody believes a jilted woman, especially a single mom. We all know you’re horny for it. My advice is don’t fight it. I know you want me.” He steps away and stops in the doorway, smiling lecherously, “and I know you want to do well in your career.”
That slime ball is proving to be a real problem. The worst thing is he’s already sprung me surfing a porn site I’d been referencing for my blog. At a drop of a needle he could call in computer forensic people and I’d be kicked out of here so fast my feet wouldn’t touch the asphalt. I’m not sure what is worse. Being jilted by Jonathon or the lecherous advances of my boss.
My mind wanders to Fergus. Handsome, funny, unpredictable Fergus. I can’t wait for the end of the day. He makes me feel like a princess and I can’t wait to sample more of what life with him tastes like.
Actually, if I’m honest I can’t wait to taste him.
I rush home and scoot up the stairs. Only one hour before Fergus picks me up. Finally, he is going to tell me what he does for a job. I can’t wait.
The official description reads:
In love, the most dangerous enemy is saucy secrets44-year-old Ruby Evans doesn’t want to be a ‘leftover girl.’ But finding a ‘forever’ man is proving impossible.
Suddenly single after 20 years of marriage, her husband is the only man she has ever slept with. But the one bit of security she always thought she’d hold onto for the rest of her life is brutally ripped from her.
Humiliatingly and cruelly ex-ed when her husband trades her for a younger model, Chanel Zest, a long-time friend and motivational life coach, comes to her rescue. Together they embark on a quest to reclaim and rebuild Ruby’s shattered life and begin the gruelling process of dating again.
Once in a pink moon, Ruby has to play dirty…
If you loved Brigette Jones’s Diary and enjoy romantic comedy, you’ll love Sex With Strangers .
Full of quirky humour and the promise of a happily ever after.
Sex with Strangers is a clean romantic comedy with a few spicy bits.

This Valentine’s Day, my partner bought me chocolates, sunflowers, roses, and my favorite magazine—all sources of inspiration which have sparked a new story. I write all my novels and stories in a great surge of delightful passion. I’ve already written four chapters! I’m not sure what the working title will be, but here is a little excerpt.
CHAPTER ONE
Trademark and infringement? What the hell? 44-year-old Susie Sweet clutched the lawyer’s letter in her hands. Her stomach clenched and spasmed simultaneously. “What trademark? What infringement? And why was she being served on Valentine’s Day?
While other women were being adored, cherished, and spoiled by their loved ones with roses and chocolates… hopefully her chocolates… she, Suzy Sweet, a 45-year-old divorcee and mother to an aggressive, entitled toxic son, was being summoned to court by an Italian confectionary baron.
Why was her life a constant battle, with assault after assault on her kind, good-natured heart? Things had finally started going well. And now this. On Valentine’s Day! Who the hell was Raffaello Ferrero and why was he picking a fight with her?
When her husband had left her for a glamourous redhead with ginormous boobs, her son blamed her, and after his escalating aggressive behavior toward her and out-of-control drinking, she made the heartbreaking decision to break contact with him. She thought life would get easier. Thanks to the life coach she had contracted in New York, she had traded her unsatisfying, unpaid, and unappreciated job as housewife and mother and life of servitude and focused on doing something she loved. For the first time in life, she was doing something just for her. Just for fun. Just for her love of chocolate.
“That’s it! That’s the name!” her life coach had told her when she told her how much she loved chocolate. And that was where the brand For The Love of Chocolate was born. It had started as a tiny venture in her kitchen, and after six months, things had suddenly taken off—buoyed by her coconut-dusted truffles.
But now lawyers, commanded by a chocolate baron with deep pockets, were coming for her. Her heart raced. as she reread the letter, tracing her fingers along the words to ensure she didn’t misread a thing.
‘Cease and Dissist’ the heading threatened. ‘You have violated the Ferrero trademark protecting the appearance of the Raffaello sweets,’ the letter read the appearance of their sweet? Was this some kind of joke? She had created her coconut-covered chocolate truffle with her own hands, innovating and adapting it from a family favourite her grandmother had passed down the family line.
What did they mean by ‘protecting the appearance?’ How the hell could you protect the appearance of a round ball, dusted and coconut? The slur on her character insulted and infuriated her. That they should even infer that she had done something as dishonest as a copy. How could you possibly trademark a truffle’s appearance? It wasn’t a handbag, a can of coke, or a Ferrari?
This Raffaello Ferrero, whoever he was a bully, Susie decided. A bully of the nastiest degree. Heartless and cold—he had to be. The timing of his threatening letter confirmed how mean-spirited he was. Raffaello Ferrero was not a true lover of chocolate and sweets. No self-respecting chocolate lover would send a woman a threatening letter on Valentine’s Day of all days!
Guy Fawkes, maybe. But not on International Lovers Day. Raffaello Ferrero clearly intended to set fire to her dreams and sent her small chocolate start-up into a meltdown of the most financially punitive and catastrophic degree.
“The bastard!“ She thundered as all the trials and traumas of the past year erupted. “I will not be abused! Not again, she vowed, and I will not be pushed around and nor will I hide. I will go to meet this Raffaello and tell him to his face what he can do with his threatening letter. Does he think he can bully me? Well, he’s going to learn a hard lesson quickly.
Do not underestimate me, she said, summoning the dark horse her life coach had taught her to ride. Her passion would be her power. But would it be enough?
I hope you enjoyed this excerpt I started on Valentine’s Day. It was fun to write, and I hope it was fun for you to read. I’ll aim to keep writing more chapters in time for release later this year. It will be fun to bring Chanel Zest back for more life coach and x-rated life advice!
“Where there is great love, there are always wishes.”I hope wherever you are, whoever you are with, the sun is shining in your heart and all your wishes come true. And if they don’t – you can always escape into a great love story with a guaranteed happy ending:)


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