Before the Dawn

The chemistry between Ryder and Leah is sizzling. Ms. Jenkins develops both characters especially, Leah's. She is strong, yet fragile. I enjoyed reading this book. I was caught up in the moment and rooted for their happiness. Be prepared for the sensual love between Ryder and Leah. Read it and Enjoy!!

Leah marries a man on his death bed, and goes to claim what is hers. Once there she come upon several problems , the least of which if she doesn't come up with a large sum of money she is going to jail. Damien offers to pay the debt, the price is high she has to be his lady. Not to love but to sleep with when he wants. (After all this is his younger stepmother, who he figures only married the father he hated just to get the money.)When the truth about two murders that are 30 years old come to light Damien has to accept the fact that he will give his life for Leah. This story brought tears to my eyes.

With a new cast of characters, Ms. Jenkins fills your appetite for a spicy love story that leaves you more knowledgable about little talked about areas of African-American history. Ms. Jenkins's male lead, Ryder, is hot, sexy and all man. And you won't find Leah (the heroine) sitting in a field of flowers, drinking tea and waiting to get rescued by a big, strong man--although Ryder easily steps up to protect his woman. The characters are original, sensuous and fun. Enjoy!Kimberley White, Author of "Sweet Tomorrows"

I have been patiently waiting for this book for over a year now.....and it was definitely worth the wait.We meet Leah, a very hard-working owner of a tavern, who even scrubs her own floors. Born to a free-spirited woman and a seafaring sailor she never knew. Although she grew up surrounded by her mother's love, she was still taunted as being a "bastard" child.Then we are introduced to Ryder Damien. Born of mixed race,Black and Cheyenne, he too was taunted as a child. Nicknamed "Squaw Boy" by ignorant others including his own half-brother, Seth.From the first time they meet, as she's helped from a train, sparks begin to fly. Even after he learns she's his father's widow, the man who deserted him and accused of killing his own Mother, he still couldn't deny the attraction.I couldn't stop turning the pages. From the threat of prison, to Leah being bought by Ryder, to his brother Seth pursuing her, to his ultimate admission of love and the exciting heart-stopping ending. Through it all, my attention was held, the romantic scenes were "HOTT" and I even got a history lesson out of it.I will say this.....being from Georgia, the Peach State, I'll never, EVER look and/or eat a peach the same ever again!Once again, Beverly, you done good girl. Ryder Damien is definitely a hero to remember. I'm going over to Harper/Collins website now to vote for him as hero fo the month of October. He sure deserves it. I hope that those reading this review will do the same.My favorite scene was, (not counting the peach eating scene)was when they went elk hunting for "King". I got a good laugh off that one. My fiance and I are going to the mountains next month. I'm thinking of taking some peaches with me.....wonder if I could talk him into elk hunting as well!Readers.....BUY THIS BOOK!! You will not be disappointed.