	Book Reviews, Book Lover Resources, Advice for Writers and Publishers
Home / MBR Bookwatch

MBR Bookwatch

Volume 3, Number 7 July 2004 Home | MBW Index

Table of Contents

Cynthia Penn's Bookshelf Donovan's Bookshelf Kaveny's Bookshelf

Klausner's Bookshelf Laurel's Bookshelf Shelley's Bookshelf

Shirley's Bookshelf

Cynthia Penn's Bookshelf
A Cry in the Dark: Intimate Moments No 1299
Jenna Mills
Silhouette Books
233 Broadway, New York, New York, 10279
ISBN 037327369X $4.75 256 pages

From the "Family Secrets" series -- Highly recommended A cry in the dark awakens the first generation of those people who were genetically altered during experiments in the sixties. They hear a child, but their own children are fine, yet they each know something is very wrong. At that very moment, six-year-old Alex is kidnapped. His mother, Danielle Caldwell, has gypsy blood and a gift for precognition. Once she made a mistake using her gift, which resulted in her child's father's death, and now she has turned her back on her gift and the family who would have her use it. A string of clues brings Liam Brooks to Diana's door. After his wife's death, Liam has dedicated himself to bringing Titan down. Uncertain as to how, Liam is convinced that Titan is connected to Titan. He does not understand Diana's adamant refusal to accept his help or his own determination to offer it. Guarded and emotionally repressed, Liam is surprised at his reactions to Diana and his sudden need to bring her child home. Author Jenna Mills pens a compelling and evocative kick off to the "Family Secrets: The Next Generation" series. A CRY IN THE DARK grabs the reader from the beginning and never lets up with its intense emotional stake and unexpected twists. The use of paranormal gifts is handled with finesse as Diana confronts her past and her abilities. Liam's pain haunts him, blocking him from any emotional connection to the present except the driving need to bring Titan down; that is, until he meets Diana. His powerful internal conflict adds just the right balance to Diana's struggle. A masterfully rendered tale, A CRY IN THE DARK comes very highly recommended.

Forbidden: Blaze No 129
Tori Carrington
Harlequin Retail Inc
PO Box 1325, Buffalo, NY 14269
ISBN 037379133X $4.50 256 pages

From the "Sleeping with Secrets" series -- Very highly recommended A year ago and a half ago J.T. West rocked her world, and just as she broke up with her husband, disappeared from town. So Leah Dubois Burger has spent the last year recovering from a broken heart, a divorce, and the resentment of her eleven-year-old daughter. Now she verges on recommitting herself to her ex-husband and making her daughter's dream of them as a family come true. Then she sees J.T. at the local Kroger and her world tilts again. J.T. did not want to leave Leah, and he returns because he has to know if they share more than sizzling chemistry. Every time they are together they share mind blowing sex, but he wants to know if Leah's heart is involved as well. Unfortunately, J.T. is a man on the run and cannot offer Leah the future that she deserves. No matter how good the sex is or how much either of them might want more. Author writing team Tori Carrington has a gift for creating sensual romance that meets reader's high expectations of the Blaze line. But they also have a flair for characterization. This husband/wife team consistently gives both the male and female characters a unique roundness, as especially demonstrated in FORBIDDEN. I admit that this is the first series romance I have encountered that the heroine has an affair that breaks up her marriage, and on the brink of remarrying, returns to the forbidden. And J.T. is defiantly a forbidden pleasure. Moreover, Leah's ex-husband is not a bad man, neither having abused her nor treated her particularly badly. They simply did not have a good marriage that satisfied both of their needs, thereby depriving Leah the standard moral clauses that excuse pursuing another man. Certainly Leah faces choices that many women confront with courage and strength, however challenging and difficult this real-life situation might be. While this is a plot that could go badly awry with reader sympathy, Carrington makes the forbidden both understandable and forgivable The result is a sizzling, sensual and daring, making FORBIDDEN very highly recommended.

Perfect Switch
Lisa Plumley
Brava Books
Kensington Publishing Corp.
850 Third Avenue, New York NY 10022
ISBN 0821773429 $5.99 384 pages

Very highly recommended While her twin sister sports glitzy sequence and glamour, Meredith Madison prefers her Birkenstocks. Neverthelss, the museum advertising historian decides to assumes her twin sister Marley's glamorous movie star identity for a couple of weeks and some pizzazz to her life. The invitation she co-opted includes a limo and a hunky escort named Tony Valentine. But Meredith does not realize that the invitation also includes a contract to teach movie star insider inforation at Valentine Studio's actors fantasy camp. Meredith immediately explains the case of switched identity; unfortunately, Tony does not believe her. That is, until the first day on the set when she makes ridiculous mistakes and displays a decided lack of star glamour. But with Marely honeymooning and Valentine studios in financial straights, Tony has no choice but to persuade Meredith to transform from klutz to sophisticate. Meanwhile, the sizzling chemistry between them is enough to create an inferno. Author Lisa Plumley has a gift for comedic romance, delighting yet again with PERFECT SWITCH Although twin tales seem to be all the rage at the moment, Plumley manages to add her own unique twists for a refreshingly different approach. Meredith quickly reveals her identity to Tony, who refuses to believe her until her decided lack of acting skills proves her word. Tony needs Meredith to successfully play the part of her sister or his entire family will suffer the effects of the financial difficulties plaguing the studio. Meanwhile, Tony's matchmaking family provides plenty of laughs with their determined antics and eccentricities. The perfect blend of tender romance, witty dialogue, and outrageous antics, PERFECT SWITCH comes very highly recommended.

Yours in Black Lace: Blaze No 136
Mia Zachary
Harlequin Retail Inc
PO Box 1325, Buffalo, NY 14269
ISBN 0373791402 $4.50 256 pages

Sequel to RED SHOES & A DIARY -- Very highly recommended For four months Stephanie "Stevie" Madison has been sending anonymously bold and sensual notes to her boss, P.I. Emilio Sachez. She signs each note "Yours, in black lace." With three women regularly calling Emilio, she figures erotica is the key to getting his attention. Unfortunately, Emilio refuses to become involved with employees or with clients, and Stevie is both when she brings him surveillance photos she received anonymously. Rogelio Braga's face in the background of Stevie's photos instantly indicates that she is in more danger than she realizes, and Emilio feels compelled to step in. Before opening January Investigations, Emilio worked for the Justice Department. A case involving Braga resulted in the death of an informant and blew his cover and three years of work. Now Emilio attaches himself to Stevie 24/7 until he can solve the potentially deadly connection between Braga and Stevie. Meanwhile, Emilio quickly catches on that Stevie has been sending him the black lace notes and they become the springboard for their fantasies to come true. Author Mia Zachary has quickly proven herself to be one of Harlequin's rising stars penning provocative and passionate romance. YOURS IN BLACK LACE is a "one-sitting" read that takes the reader's emotions on a roller-coaster ride. The essential blend of sensuality and excitement brings her characters vividly alive. Indeed, Stevie's relentless enthusiasm whether she's hotwiring a car or making love creates marvelous tension as she struggles with her internal demons. Emilio's own demons result in a haunted hero who has a chance at redemption if he can end this case and keep Stevie safe, despite her willful determination to remain actively involved in the investigation. This multicultural romance brings a taste of the exotic and the splendor of independence into a memorable read that comes very highly recommended.

To Save This Child: Superromance No 1202
Darlene Graham
Harlequin
PO Box 1325, Buffalo, NY 14269
ISBN 0373712022 $5.25 301 pages

Very highly recommended Every spring Dr. Jason Bridges closes his office for three weeks, heading to the remote jungles of Chiapas, Mexico where he offers his medical skills to the natives. Despite the hectic schedule and primitive conditions, Jason achieves something akin to redemption in his service to these needy people. Through the years of service, his staff has become as hooked on the experience as the doctor himself, and none of them ever want to leave. But when a last minute medical emergency sidelines his translator, Jason turns unexpectedly to pharmaceutical representative Kendal Collins for help. During the lonely year since Phillip dumped her, Kendal has gone from top earning drug rep to the bottom of the heap. Without Phillips added income, her lifestyle has become too expensive to afford, and pity parties an occasional necessity. Determined to do anything to revitalize her flagging career, Kendal agrees to provide her translation skills in return for the opportunity to prove the worth of her company's pharmaceuticals. With his medical reputation, Jason's switch her company's drugs assures Kendal the career boost she needs. The last thing she expects is fall in love with a child in Mexico, let alone the doctor who operates on him. TO SAVE THIS CHILD almost feels like it was placed in the wrong category with its political intrigue, but its heart felt emotions places it squarely in the Superromance series. This powerful medical romance leads Jason and Kedal not only through the dangers of a jungle but also the challenging terrain of the heart. Jason's determination to remain emotional distance cannot endure the onslaught of the intriguing Kendal. The descriptions of the conditions of Chiapas, Mexico and the necessity of drawing lots for medical care provides both a disturbing and a poignant background that lingers in the imagination long after the last page is turned. Powerfully rendered and impossible to put down, TO SAVE THIS CHILD comes very highly recommended.

For a Baby: Superromance No 1203
C.J. Carmichael
Harlequin
PO Box 1325, Buffalo, NY 14269
ISBN 0373712081 $5.25 301 pages

From the "9 Months Later" series - Recommended Years after her first love married someone else, Heather Sweeney still carries a torch for Russell. Now a medical condition leads to early infertility. So when explosive passion leads her to bed with T.J. Collins, Heather does not care if she becomes pregnant. In fact, part of her hopes that she does. Once she learns of her pregnancy, however, Heather informs T.J. of her condition and asks him to marry her. T.J. fears setting expectations that he cannot meet. He would rather decline involvement in Heather's life and their unborn child than to somehow fail them. With his previous family, he has already proven that even if he occasionally gets something right, he always disappoints his loved ones in the end. Only in the intimacy of their bedroom does he freely show his feelings for Heather. But the question remains how long that can be enough for either of them. C.J. Carmichael takes a challenging position with her heroine in FOR A BABY. Heather deliberately allows herself to get pregnant, and her marital expectation of T.J. seems wildly unfair given their situation. Only the fact that he so easily capitulates redeems the situation. While she might be a woman who always tried to the right thing, Heather's long term fantasy regarding Russell's refusal to accept his emotions and Heather's machinations make for a rather cold beginning to a read that becomes remarkably tender by the end. While that extreme shift of tone provides a lovely read when all is said and done, it does require the reader to persevere. FOR A BABY comes recommended.

The Man She Married: Superromance No 1208
Muriel Jensen
Harlequin
PO Box 1325, Buffalo, NY 14269
ISBN 0373712081 $5.25 301 pages

From the "Men of Maple Hill" series - Recommended A long, dark year finally seems to culminate in success for Prue Hale until her estranged husband arrives in Maple Hill. Rather than presenting her with divorce papers, he proposes a temporary reconciliation based on a business opportunity for Prue. Her clothing line has captured his aunt's eye, and she offers a fabulous publicity package during a planned visit. Little does Prue suspect that Hugh and his aunt have conspired together to give her marriage to Hugh a second chance. When Prue refuses to listen to reason, Hugh knows he must gamble on an outside chance if he wants his marriage back. Moving her into his home and playing at being married again to supposedly receive the gift of a publicity package for her business might seem duplicitous, but a man in love must resort to desperate measures during desperate times. Perhaps if they can spend some time together Prue will come to trust him enough to accept that he had never been unfaithful, only foolish. Second chances lend charm to Muriel Jensen's THE MAN SHE MARRIED. Communication issues destroyed Gideon and Prue's marriage and threaten to wreck their second chance. Gideon and Prue are realistic, sympathetic characters whose flaw is simply being human. When lack of time strained their marriage the first time, trust issues prevented her from believing that he had not been unfaithful. But Prue herself has not been as honest with Gideon as he deserved, and only when communication and love come together does this damaged couple find the healing that they both deserve. I admit, however, to having reservations about duplicity to bring about reconciliation for a marriage that was originally destroyed by miscommunication and trust issues. It seems to me that such dishonesty could perpetuate the problem rather than solve it. Nonetheless, THE MAN SHE MARRIED is still a pleasant afternoon's read that comes recommended.

What Phoebe Wants Flipside
Cindi Myers
Harlequin
PO Box 1325, Buffalo, NY 14269
ISBN 0373441940 $4.50 224 pages

Highly recommended Phoebe Frame got stuck with the lemon while her husband drove of with the Lexis and a twenty-four-year-old cocktail waitress. When the lemon dies in the middle of the road, Phoebe hikes to a used car dealership. The salesman purportedly offered her something dependable, but her new vehicle is towed back to the dealership within twenty-four hours with a broken motor mount. Suddenly mild mannered Phoebe cannot withstand any more crap, and demands that the dealership repair her car, taking her battle to the media when they refuse. Her new found courage also quickly leads her refusing her slimy boss' advances. A transcriptionist in a doctor's office, Phoebe spends most of her time in a windowless office the size of closet. When the system receives an upgrade, Jeff Fisher arrives on the scene. Their mutual exchange of insults soon gives way to passion. But Phoebe has no interest in a relationship with a younger man. And Jeff has his own issues. Author Cindi Myers pens a wildly amusing romp in WHAT PHOEBE WANTS. From dormouse to dominatrix, Phoebe discovers the power of going after what she wants. I admit to being a bit ambivalent regarding our hero, however, who would rather walk out than talk it through. His perchance for disappearing when the going gets rough makes me question the wisdom of pursuing a younger man. Nevertheless, Phoebe's plan to get even with her boss and her appearance at the Halloween party make WHAT PHOEBE WANTS a fantastic read that comes highly recommended.

Eye Candy: Blaze No 130
Dorie Graham
Harlequin
PO Box 1325, Buffalo, NY 14269
ISBN 0373791348 352 pages $4.50

Highly recommended Crystal Peterson appeals to longtime friend and confidante Sam Schaffer to help her transform from one of the boys to a siren. Crystal might get the winning touchdown, but the sports beauties at the sideline garner all of Ron's attention after the game. Sam conceals it, but it pains him to watch the scarcely concealed longing in Crystal's eyes whenever Ron is around. So when Crystal decides to transform her appearance and try to become one of Ron's calendar models, Sam agrees in exchange for her writing a column for him. Sam eventually agrees to help, going with Crystal for cosmetics and hairstyling. But when she drags him through boutiques and lingerie stores, passion replaces common sense. Crystal believes that if she can turn on Sam then she should have no trouble turning Ron in. Little does she suspect the passion he conceals, or the emotional rollercoaster they are about to embark upon. Author Dorie Graham brings a fresh eye to the often used plot of best friends who cross the boundaries into love with EYE CANDY. Crystal's oblivion to the effect she has on Sam and her determination early in the novel to win someone else's attention creates powerful sexual tension. Sam's inability to resist her allure and willing to risk two decades of friendship makes for powerful relationship drama that comes highly recommended.

Beauty Queen
Julia London
Berkley Pub Group (Sensation)
375 Hudson Street, New York, NY 10014
ISBN 0425195244 $7.50 416 pages

Sequel to Material Girl Former beauty queen Rebecca Lear found that her title, former marriage and motherhood by proxy did not prepare her to find happiness and fulfillment after her divorce. Cut off from her former friends when her ex-husband immediately remarries and integrates wife number two into their social circles, even Rebecca's wealth cannot provide purpose to her life. Then her sisters provided her with a birthday present that leads to transformation in the form of motivation and a relocation. Her suddenly nannyless five-year-old son and she must find their own way for the first time. Being a former beauty queen unexpectedly leads to her first job as part of political campaign where her smoozing and party arranging skills have extraordinary value. Unfortunately, her first day on the job brings her back in contact with Matt Parish, with whom a mix up already has put them at odds. While Rebecca might be the most beauty woman he has ever met, Matt has little faith in her campaign skills. As he struggles with the direction his legal partnership seems to be heading, his constant sparring with Rebecca fails to conceal their mutually sizzling chemistry. As Rebecca transforms entertainment skills and political connections into usable job experience, she becomes a force be reckoned with both in the office and in her relationship with Matt. An irreverent sense of humor and snappy dialogue make BEAUTY QUEEN a quick read, even as the humor lightly conceals a poignant tale of transformation and second chances. Rebecca's womanizing ex-husband is drawn with a black brush with his inconsiderate treatment of their son, but his unthinking cruelty to both Rebecca and the child inspires Rebecca to extraordinary growth. She soon discovers, however, that transformations require ethics and values that do not necessary receive respect in the political arena. Meanwhile, Matt's reevaluation of his life goals mirrors Rebecca's struggles and adds to their fiery relationship. Their brutal honesty with each other rips away the lovely masks each presents to the world, forcing them to be honest with each other and with themselves. Overall, author Julia London does an amazing job of balancing the ridiculous with the sublime, the humorous with drama. The result is a wonderfully entertaining read that comes very highly recommended.

The Wilde Side
Janelle Denison
Kensington Publishing
850 Third Avenue, New York, NY 10022
ISBN 0758203616 320 pages $14.00

The Wilde boys are back! Very highly recommended For her thirtieth birthday Ashley St. Claire makes an erotic and provocative wish. After three years, for one night, she wants to walk on the wild side. So she trades her designer suits for a short skirt and heads to a bar on the outskirts of Chicago. There she meets Scott Wilde, the bachelor who agrees to make her fantasies a reality. But she introduces herself as "Just Ashley" and after a fantastic night together, slips out in the morning without leaving a clue to her identity. She has been burned one too many times for being one of the St. Claires of the wealthy family that owns a five star hotel chain. Scott cannot forget the girl who rocked his world. While Ashley is obviously a good girl, her eagerness to be bad for a night proves absolutely irresistible. When she disappears without a trace the next morning, Scott cannot help feeling intensely disappointed. So when she calls a few days later, he eagerly welcomes an opportunity to talk. But he has already been burned once by a woman who kept secrets, and he is desperate to know Ashley's true identity. It will take more than a wild ride between the sheets to convince Ashley to give him a real chance. Readers have come to expect excellence from author Janelle Denison, and once again she delivers with THE WILDE SIDE. A provocatively sexy read that readers will find impossible to put down, THE WILDE SIDE strikes the perfect balance between sensuality, erotica and romance. Ashley and Scott struggle with conflicts and emotional baggage that keep their characters depth. Ashley proves her heart to be made of gold as she struggles with thefts from her boutique. Yet she has spent most of her life living up to other people's expectations rather than honoring her own needs and desires. Scott is remarkably believable hero who once made a mistake that cost the family business dearly, and a personal choice that makes him incredibly gun shy of anyone who cannot be absolutely forthright. Fans will be eagerly awaiting the next installment of the Wilde family. THE WILDE SIDE comes very highly recommended.

Dirty Fire
Earl Merkel
Signet
375 Hudson Street, New York, New York 10014
ISBN 0451210174 $6.99 384 pages

Very highly recommended Flames destroy the evidence, and only ex-police officer John Davey's persistence ties the death of innocents to a labyrinth of corruption. His career ended with his own tie to the corruption, and only inadmissible evidence saves John from serving time in prison. With the threat of the prosecution finding admissible evidence forever haunting him, John struggles to survive. A convict's tip and the certainty of arson lead to John's second chance when he joins the investigation. Soon his inquires lead to billions of dollars in artwork that disappeared during the holocaust. The Russians do not even admit to the all of the works of art they hide even as they pledge their cooperation to return of the art that could be proven to have belonged to holocaust victims. From the fires of the holocaust to the flames of arson, missing art leads to international horror. Through a plot filled with intricacy and surprises, Earl Merkel's second novel, DIRTY FIRE exceeds expectations. The powerfully render protagonist desperately fights to out run his personal demons even as he struggles with his father's dishonesty and betrayal by his department. Gristly murders, international intrigue and conflicting interests combine for a suspense filled novel impossible to put down. Once again Merkel has the ability to make a complex plot and fascination characterizations bristle with authenticity. DIRTY FIRE comes very highly recommended.

The Spy Who Loves Me
Julie Kenner
Pocket Books, a division of Simon & Schuster Inc.
1230 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10020
ISBN 0743446054 $6.99 400 pages

Sequel to "Nobody But You" -- Very highly recommended A malevolent plot intends to use a top-secret laser for wealth and revenge. Operatives Amber Robinson and her partner Brandon are assigned the case. Amber has been with the Unit since she was fifteen. It has become her family as well as providing the latest and greatest tools technology offers. She believes that she would never give up her spy world for anyone or anything; that is, until Amber and Brandon track terrorist mercenary Drake's girlfriend Diana to a apartment complex. Then Finn catches her attention. Soon Amber realizes she is not the only one observing Diana. Neighbor Phineus "Finn" Teague watches Diana from his window as well. Little does he suspect that his innocent musings, daydreams of becoming Agent Python, will lead him into a dangerous world of spies and espionage. Suddenly his innocuous wishes to escape boring depositions and overburdening student loans lead to life of intrigue beyond that which he imagined. Now he will do anything to protect the spy he loves. Julie Kenner's superb gift for storytelling dazzles in THE SPY WHO LOVED ME. With so many books on the market, readers are hard put to find author's who distinctive style brings them back again and again. But Kenner is one of those authors who's artful humor and the fully developed characters bring her stories vividly alive, even in the seemingly contradictory blend of fantasy and reality. Whether she is writing about superheroes or spies, Kenner creates tales that consistently charm and intrigue. THE SPY WHO LOVED ME come very highly recommended. The Spy Who Loves MeStop by http://www.wordweaving.com to enter monthly contests! Authors: Increase your readership. Donate copies of your latest novel for monthly contest!

The Cowboy and the Bride: American Romance No 1024
Marin Thomas
Harlequin
PO Box 1325, Buffalo, NY 14269
ISBN 0373750285 $4.75 256 pages

From the "Fatherhood" series - Very highly recommended When barbed wire snares her bridal dress, Madeleine Tate finds herself at the mercy of the property owner to rescue her from spectators and a bad tempered bull. But then, since her fianc� stood her up in Vegas after making off with her luggage, Madeline had already had a really bad day. Driving across Idaho, she ran out of gas. And before her would be rescuer can free her from the barbed wire, a bull named Cyclone puts in an appearance. With the flick of a knife, the bull makes off with the gauze and Madeleine reveals her sexy silk stockings and garter belt. Jake Montgomery has little time to rescue women between running his ranch and caring for his five-year-old daughter. But Madeline's fortuitous arrival does mean she can pitch in caring for his daughter temporarily, even if she cannot remember to drain the wading pool or cook anything that is not burned. But Jake knows that Madeleine belongs in bright lights and pursuing a career rather than living in the wilds of Idaho. Author Marin Thomas adds her unique flair to the traditional jilted bride theme in THE COWBOY AND THE BRIDE. The opening scene will absolutely leave the reader in stitches as the taciturn observers discuss their unusual find even as Madeline struggles valiantly to free herself from barbed wire. And the light touch continues to lend the story sparkle even as more serious danger appears or as deeper emotional issues surface. While all the characters are wonderfully memorable, it's Madeline's refreshing view of the world that adds extra zest to this delightful tale. THE COWBOY AND THE BRIDE come very highly recommended.

Sing Me Home
Jerri Corgiat
Onyx
375 Hudson Street, New York, New York 10014
ISBN 0451411285 $6.99 384 pages

Very highly recommended Neglecting routine maintenance on their car resulted in her husband's death. Three years have not healed his loss or their unborn child. Now her brother's death brings the inevitable close of his less-than-profitable bookstore, "Merry-Go-Read." In the final days before closing, curious circumstances bring a stranger into the store. She does not recognize country music star Jonathan Van Castle, perceiving his behavior to rude and his lack of knowledge regarding his own children inexcusable. When she later finds another book in the series that Jon purchased, Lil sends her younger sister to make the delivery. She comes back engaged. Dodging a pack of fans, Jon ducks into "Merry-Go-Round" to escape. He finds startling blue eyes and surprising anonymity. He has come to town to pick up his children for the summer while their mother cleans up again. When Lil's younger sister Mari shows up to deliver the book, for the sake of his children, he finds himself proposing. His troubled children certainly need a loving feminine influence. But when Mari takes him to meet the family, Jon discovers it's the older sister that holds the potential of stealing his heart. A warm and touching story, SING ME HOME is one of those wonderful romances that truly captures the heart. The strong characterizations spring vividly to life from Lil's initial disdain of Jon's lack of knowledge regarding his children to her motherly touch with the children. While the extended cast of characters can be a bit much to keep up with, their individuality makes each one a delight to encounter. Filled with joy and laughter, pathos and challenges, SING ME HOME comes very highly recommended.

Cynthia Penn
Reviewer

Donovan's Bookshelf
Hostage
John C. Griffiths
Andre Deutsch/Trafalgar Square
PO Box 257, N. Pomfret, VT 05053
0233000348 $29.99 www.trafalgarsquare.com

The history, facts, and logic behind hostage taking is revealed by John C. Griffiths in HOSTAGE, a study of the past and present phenomenon of takign a hostage. From issues relating to the taking or releasing of hostages to how hostage-taking has evolved, including hijackings, HOSTAGE uses individual cases and discussions with both hostages, terrorists and negotiators to provide a rounded view of current issues.

Mark Gertler
Sarah MacDougall
John Murray/Trafalgar Square, Dist.
PO Box 257, N. Pomfret, VT 05053
0719557992 $40.00 www.trafalgarsquare.com

MARK GERTLER is the first biography of the artist to be published in thirty years, and Sarah MacDougall provides a new survey of an artist who served as a creative figure for contemporaries D.H. Lawrence and Aldous Huxley. His haunting pictures were collected during his time and he was a part of London society; yet his ongoing lack of happiness led to his eventual alienation and suicide.

Lord of Misrule
Christopher Lee
Orion/Trafalgar Square, Dist.
PO Box 257, N. Pomfret, VT 05053
0752857703 $27.50 www.trafalgarsquare.com

Christopher Lee's background in film and his moving career in a host of cult and mainstream classics are detailed in his autobiography LORD OF MISRULE, reflecting on some of his most demanding film appearances, his life, and his movie memories. Fans of Lee will relish his candid assessment of his films in general and the movie industry in particular.

Hearing Birds Fly
Louisa Waugh
Abacus/Trafalgar Square, Dist.
PO Box 257, N. Pomfret, VT 05053
0316861707 $29.95 www.trafalgarsquare.com

Author Louisa Waugh moved to a remote village in Mongolia after two years working in the country's capitol: HEARING BIRDS FLY is the first-person account of the year she spent living with the villagers. From the hardships of a dark Mongolian winter into a lush summer and nomadic existence, Waugh's story captures all the ups and downs of a rugged, isolated lifestyle.

William the Conqueror
David Bates
Tempus Publishing/Trafalgar Square Dist.
PO Box 257, N. Pomfret, VT 05053
0752429604 $22.95 www.trafalgarsquarebooks.com

William the Conqueror was an ambitious political leader who was the driving force of the Norman Conquest of England in 1066. Scholar David Bates' new biography WILLIAM THE CONQUEROR documents the man's achievements in Normandy and England, examining these successes in light of European history as a whole. A 'must' for any student of the era.

Beyond the Coral Sea
Michael Moran
Flamingo/Trafalgar Square
PO Box 257, N. Pomfret, VT 05053
0006552358 $15.95 www.trafalgarsquarebooks.com

The isolated islands of the Coral, Solomon and Bismarck Seas were the last to be explored by Europeans, leading author Michael Moran to delve into the magic of these largely unspoiled colonies. BEYOND THE CORAL SEA travels the footsteps of some of the early explorers of the Coral Sea islands, considering history, cultural changes, and anthropological facts.

Diane C. Donovan
West Coast Editor

Kaveny's Bookshelf
Philip Kaveny looks at his sixtieth birthday.

In less than two weeks I will sixty years old which I think is not to bad an achievement for some one who was voted Madison East (Wisconsin) High School of 1962 class member most likely to commit suicide by his fellow classmates at his fifth high school class reunion in 1967. I am not going to bore my readers with some kind of mawkish summing up of my life. Rather than that I just want to say how it is great it is to be alive and married to my wonderful wife Dr, Janice Bogstad who I met thirty two years ago when she was a starving graduate student while I was working for The University of Wisconsin Madison where I worked for nearly thirty years earning a quite generous retirement which I took Jan 09 2000. I would add to this that there is nothing more priceless than the friends of a lifetime that I have met in my lifetime around books. At he top of that list is a group of friends I met nearly half a lifetime ago in Madison Wisconsin through the old Madison Review of Books and The Madison Science Fiction Group including James Andrew Cox, Hank Luttrell, Richard West, and Richard Russell. There is an old Russian Expression that says you have to eat a pod of salt with a man to get to know them, by the way a pod is a Russian unit of measure equal to thirty two pounds. In the case of these men I feel as if I have come close. I would also add that the next best thing to having old friends is making new ones.

Yesterday I stopped into my new Church Christ Church Episcopal Cathedral in Eau Claire Wisconsin right before evening prayers and made an off-hand remark to one lay ministers that I would not be able to stay because I was to do one of my favorite things. I was on my way to visit and discuss with Dr Lori Rowlett her fascinating Book:

Joshua and the Rhetoric of Violence: A New Historicist Analysis
Journal for the Study of the Old Testament
Sheffield Academic Press
ISBN: 1850756279 $40.00 197 pages

Lori teaches in the religious studies department at University of Wisconsin Eau Claire and I had the privilege of meeting her through my wife who teaches in women's studies. When I called Lori to make an appointment she asked me this question. "You read my book and didn't have to?" I replied not only did I read it, I found it fascinating from both a methodological and content stand point, because among other things it positioned and compared the texts she studied with other ancient non- Biblical Middle Eastern Battle narratives and suggested a particular historical function that the texts served during the process of their generation and transmission. Even more interesting was her appropriate use of epistemological theorists such as Michael Foucault and a number of other to suggest the culture specific functions that the text she studied embodied. From my standpoint that meant that at least the books of The Old Testament she studied functioned on a number of different but not necessarily exclusive levels depending upon the standpoint you started from. My wife joined in our discussion a bit later and we got into the utility of Noam Chomsky's concept of transformational grammar for translating ancient language. My wife has done extensive work in Classical Chinese including original controversial translations and works Lori works with Ancient Hebrew. My interest in Noam Chomsky's work arose out of my highly resistant reading of Jeremy Campbell's Grammatical Man: Information, Entropy, Language and Life Simon & Schuster 1982 ASIN: 0671440624 price $16.95 I was particularly resistant to the section on Noam Chomsky. However both my wife Jan and Lori said that Noam Chomsky was quite useful in reducing the ambiguity of meaning in translating primary ancient documents, so I guess I will be ordering some Noam Chomsky and stretching my brain until it hurts to get to the essence of his concepts .Who knows I might have a shot at learning Hebrew.

I am back on the little screen again. For nearly the last thirty-five years I have been an alternative media producer, making films, and doing radio and television with an occasional stint on public radio. I will be danged if I am not doing it again with what is CTV the public access television production facility and channels in Eau Claire Wisconsin. If you would like to check out their website this is their URL http://www.cvctv.org/

It all started quite innocently as I was quietly watching one of my favorite programs on The Discovery Channel (Animal Face off), which is a virtual face off between some of the meanest animals in the world. Just as I was about to see the Polar Bear and The Giant Panda rip each other to pieces our foster daughter changed the channel to Bravo and an Actors Studio Interview with the latest James Bond Pierce Brosnan. I liked the interview so much that I stayed up late that night to watch it again and decided that to get my hair cut like his and go back on Television. Well okay my wife will gladly point out that I am older fatter shorter and not as talented as Pierce Brosnan, but I in turn will point out that we have a lot in common in that we are both photogenic Irish, and I forgot the other thing.

Last Friday My wife Jan and I produced what will be the second in a series of Television programs with the working title of "The Foundations of the Fantastic". The series will focus on a number of personalities that were responsible for the establishment of the genre of the fantastic in all its forms over the 19th and first half of the 20th Century. The first one hour program was an overview of life and works of J.R.R Tolkien entitled "The Hobbits in our Lives" The program was cable cast several times and at least a couple of double handfuls of people have stopped me on the street in Eau Claire to comment on my new media star status. The consensus of the comments was that I was pretty good but my wife was great. Last Friday night we taped a half hour program on H.G Wells which should air within a month or so. Then we hope to do shows on H.P. Lovecraft, Mary Shelly, Bram Stocker, perhaps Jack London, and of course Edgar Rice Burroughs, and of course Robert Heinlein. The reason we are able and willing to do this is that we have fallen in with a really to notch producer and student of popular Rob Mathison who is one of the sparkplugs who keeps CTV public television. The guy owns a small business and still manages to work about eighty hours a week on programming, or maybe it just seems.

I realize that this months Kaveny's Shelf has was more about Kaveny than books but I want at least get give my attentions to one more very important book about a confrontation between two titanic figures in modern philosophy.

Wittgenstein's Poker: The Story of a Ten-Minute Argument between Two Great Philosophers
Ecco 1st edition
ISBN: 0066212448 $24.00 352 pages

The book is an in depth account of an event which transpired in October 1946. The event hinged on philosopher Karl Popper's arrival at Cambridge to lecture at a seminar chaired by Ludwig Wittgenstein. The topic of the seminar seemed simple enough. Were there in fact philosophical problems or only language puzzles? The debate lasted only a few minutes and ended with one of the principals brandishing a steel poker, and then being driven from the room in ridicule. I will leave the reader to find out who did what, but what really drew me to the book was and the author's characterization of Ludwig Wittgenstein (1888-1951) and particularly his dealing with the issues of his families Jewish ancestry, and his disposal of their families immense personal fortune to buy his sister Helene's way out of Nazi Austria in 1938. The author does not really develop the philosophical question of Wittgenstein's possible complicity and guilt in supporting the Nazi war effort by giving his families billions to the Nazi in return for a document which would retroactively make them non Jewish. It is not a mute question whether philosophy can only say what is and not what ought to be at least to me.

On a lighter note I want close with a few more thoughts at least I hope on a lighter note. To my fellow Madison East High School of 1962-class fellow classes members most likely to commit suicide at my fifth high school class reunion in 1967. Henry David Thoreau 1817-1862 once told a young friend that "Living Well was the best revenge", and in that sense I hope, we have all had our best revenge.

Philip Kaveny
Reviewer

Klausner's Bookshelf
Hunting Fear
Kay Hooper
Bantam
ISBN: 0553803166 $25.00, 352 pp.

In the past eighteen months, he has kidnapped a dozen victims during a twenty-four hour period, holds them for ransom and when the money is paid, he kills them anyway. The victims have a clock showing how long they have to live. This serial kidnapper and killer leaves no clues and it is only recently that the authorities have detected his pattern. The circus comes to Golden, South Carolina with one of the attractions being clairvoyant and precognitive fortuneteller Samantha Burke. When her prediction about the kidnapping and death of one of its victims comes true, the sheriff suspects her. Lucas Jordan, a psychic on Noah Bishop's FBI Special Crime Unit, knows that Sam can tell the future because they were once romantically involved. Together they must find the killer before Samantha's vision of the future comes true. Lucas is the only one who can find him due to his special psychic ability but he doesn't know that the killer has specifically picked him for the ultimate cat-and-mouse game. A unit of psychics in the FBI is made plausible by Kay Hooper's original and unique storytelling abilities. The romance between the two protagonists is also original because she nags and he closes himself off from her, which makes for some very refreshing scenes. The mystery is well thought out and realistic because unfortunately the killer sometimes wins in this macabre game he created. .Kay Hooper once again delivers an exciting romantic thriller.

Kill The Messenger
Tami Hoag
Bantam
ISBN: 0553801953 $26.00, 420 pp.

Nineteen years old Jace Damon has learned to keep a low profile for fear that children's protective services would take his eight-year-old brother Tyler away from him. He works as a bicycle messenger in Los Angeles, being paid off the books and living in Chinatown where the community closes ranks around them. One rainy night, Jace picks up a package from slimy lawyer Lenny Lowell. When he reaches the address of the place he is supposed to leave the package at, he finds an empty lot. Someone tries to grab the package and Jace knows he has to get away before the thug grabs the parcel and kills him. When he returns to Lenny, he sees the cops there and learns that his client was murdered. When he opens the package, he sees negatives. Jace figures that Lenny was blackmailing someone. Not wanting to bring trouble to his brother or Madame Chan who has unofficially adopted them, he leaves but homicide detective Ken Parker and robbery-homicide detective Brandon Kyle is looking for him as well as the man who wants to kill him for what he knows. KILL THE MESSENGER is a fascinating police procedural that readers will enjoy immensely because the quirky characters make this book very special. Jace is more mature than people twice his age are; his brother is a genius; and the lead police officer on the case Detective Parker is a maverick who does not always follow directions but manages to get the job done. Tami Hoag is one author the audience one can count on for getting the job done too as she writes juicy, entertaining and original novels.

Fallen
Kathleen George
Bantam
ISBN: 0440236649 $6.99 400 pp.

Everyone knows that Pittsburgh Doctor Dan Ross is a humanitarian and he proves it to any doubters by funding Pacusset Safe House, a place for young adults in danger to go to for a safe haven and counseling. He is such a good person nobody understands why he was murdered. Although the police have no leads, a determined officer, working on his own time, tries to find Dan's murderer. Dan's wife Elizabeth takes her husband's death hard, withdrawing into herself and rejecting the help of her friends. She has a new next-door neighbor Frank Razzi, a man who rented the housee just so he could be next to Elizabeth. He spies on her and goes out of his way to be her friend. He has a teaching job in Athens Ohio where he is letting Christie, an eighteen-year-old girl stay there working for him. Both Christie and Elizabeth find out who is has at approximately the same time putting their lives in danger from a man who killed twice before. By the time readers figure out who Frank really is they will be glued to their chairs, frantically turning the pages to see what he does to the two women he loves and hates. The obsessed police officer is an interesting character, a jaded cop who becomes obsessed with bringing in the killer of a very decent man. Kathleen George has written an engrossing work of psychological suspense that takes into account not only the crime, but also the heartbreak that caused it. She makes it easy to understand the killer even though the audience hates what he has done. FALLEN has one of the most conflicted antagonists this reviewer has ever read about which makes him fascinating in a sorrowful kind of way.

Freedom's Gate
Naomi Kritzer
Bantam
ISBN: 0553586734 $6.99, 359 pp.

The Macedonian Empire wanes after Alexander dies until Penelope, the founder of the Sisterhood of the Weavers, learned how to bend to her will the aeriika (djinn). The empire took back what it had lost. Most countries accepted that the Greeks were their overlords but the Danibeki fought for their freedom. As a result, the rivers Janarles and Oxus were dried up by the aeriika leaving the population to value water more than gold or jewels because it ismuch rarer in the occupied land. Lauria, a free woman in service to military commander Kyros, is asked to infiltrate the Alashi, a warrior group made up of runaway slaves and free men and women unable to live under Greek rule. As part of the plan, she is to remain in Sophos' harem and after two weeks escape to find the Alashi. Before she is set free, Sophos rapes her and another harem slave takes care of her and accompanies her when she leaves because she hates her mater. They find the camp but the more time Lauria stays there, the less she wants to go back because she sees the truth about the Greeks like Kyros who has not punished Sophos for his attack on her. The magical culture of the Greek Empire revolves around the djinn, how to bind and use them to further their own political and military goals. It is only when the heroine is among the Alashi does she realize that the bound djinn are as much slaves of their masters as those humans in bondage to their owner. FREEDOM'S GATE is a magical fantasy set in a powerful Greek Empire where magic and sorcery are everyday events accepted by the populace. Naomi Kritzer has written a charming fantasy that will leave readers eager to read for the next installment in what looks like a great series.

Waking Raphael
Leslie Forbes
Bantam
ISBN: 0553382810 $25.00

Middle age art restorer Charlotte Penton travels to Urbino, Italy to work on a fabulous project, restoring a faded Raphael painting, La Muta, The Silent Woman. The renovation assignment is difficult as Charlotte must first peel away the previous "repairs" to get to the basic masterpiece. Then she applies skill, experience and guesswork to mend the painting. Following Charlotte to Urbino is youthful Canadian media star Donna Ricco, who is the pretty girl frontal visage for an arts restoration program. Donna quickly finds the tedious meticulous work boring, but knows she must bear it if she is to get ahead in her career. When a mute woman defames the masterpiece, the two visitors see it differently. Charlotte is appalled but wants to learn why while a gleeful Donna sees a terrific story. As the two North Americans combine resources to learn the truth, they will open up secrets from the war and much more about grandmasters that the town's elderly want left hidden. This engaging tale hooks the reader from the moment that the mute woman desecrates La Muta because the mystery within a mystery is embedded in an incredible background tidal wave of art, history, legends with a hint of the paranormal, local politics, and religion. The lead duo is dynamic opposites except both have energy that will make a marathon runner feel like a couch potato. Fans of crime thrillers with an edge will want to read WAKING RAPHAEL and obtain Leslie Forbes' previous tales, BOMBAY ICE and FISH, BLOOD AND BONE as this reviewer plans to do.

The Taking
Dean Koontz
Bantam
ISBN: 055380250X $27.00, 338 pp.

The rain keeps Molly Sloan indoors so she works on her book that she hopes to complete soon. However, she observes the oddity of the torrent pouring at over seven inches an hour and it has luminescent glow as if snow was falling. On her porch is a horde of coyotes acting as if they fear what is out there but they are friendly towards Molly. Her husband Neil awakens from a nightmare and joins her. From TV they learn that the storm is worldwide. The Sloans see the probable cause when an UFO hovers in the sky and weird looking fungus and spores multiply at a geometric Malthusian rate. People vanish into the ground or levitate into the air; corpses walk and decapitated heads talk. Special dogs congregate around the beleaguered couple as Molly and Neil search the nearby town for children of parents who disappeared. They believe that the children and their guardians cannot be touched. In less than thirty-six hours the world that the Sloans knew is gone and both wonder how the ETs will deal with the survivors. This apocalyptical thriller is a chilling frightening tale as two scared souls fight back against overwhelming odds, but take the time to try to protect the children though being a good Samaritan can mean being a dead Samaritan. Dean Koontz is at his best with this sure shot New York Times best seller that deserves many kudos. The science of the invaders is so far ahead of humanity it compares to prehistoric man seeing TV or movies. Readers will never look at rain the same way as Mr. Koontz has subtle changed the rhythm.

Promise Him Everything
Carla Cassidy
Onyx
ISBN: 0451411439 $6.99, 336 pp.

In Riverton, Kansas, David Blankenship holds seventeen preschoolers including his son Billy and two adults hostage at the Tiny Tots Day Care center demanding to speak to his former wife substitute elementary school teacher Juliette Monroe. Hostage negotiator Nick Corelli makes contact with David, but worries about the victims as the culprit is silent for the most part, but when he speaks, he shows no emotion until Juliette arrives. Desperate to save Billy and the others, Juliette promises David she will be with him without the child. David comes out and the cops arrest him. A couple days later, a court allows him bail, which he meets; his freedom causes an uproar in the small town. David returns to Philadelphia where he remains patient as he plots his vengeance on his lying bitch of a wife starting by killing her son. Meanwhile Nick worries about Juliette and Billy and with the help of his police partner and his brother, guard them around the clock. As he falls in love with the two Monroes and they return his feelings, he knows David is coming, just when remains the question. This exciting romantic suspense stars a delightful lead couple, both suffering from mental wounds and a vile intelligent villain who believes he is smarter than the law (wait until you read the final justice). The secondary cast augments the lead couple with insight to how much they care for others. Especially interesting are the mentally crippled former girlfriend of Nick's brother while Billy contrasts the males in his life so readers obtain a terrific tale with depth from multiple perspectives.

Five Days in Summer
Kate Pepper
Onyx
ISBN: 0451411404 $6.99 320 pp.

She went out to buy some groceries as a way of thanking her mother in law Sara for allowing her and her three children to stay in their Cape Cod home. While she was putting some groceries in the car and then slammed the trunk shut, someone stealthily moved behind her and slipped her something to cause her to lose consciousness. At first nobody is concerned but as the hours slip away Sara called the police and her son Will to let him know that Emily was missing. Ordinarily, it would be treated as an ordinary missing person's case but retired FBI agent and expert profiler Dr. John Geary is working on a very similar case. Over the last two decades, on a certain date mothers have been kidnapped; five days later a son is abducted, a piece of a boy's body the only thing ever found. Dr. Geary thinks this same person kidnapped Emily because the date fits. The police wants the family to keep the boys close to them. Unfortunately one of them is kidnapped by someone they all trust and time is running out for Emily and her son. New talent Kate Pepper provides thriller readers with an exciting tale that will leave fans wanting to read any future books she writes. The pacing is swift, the actions scenes leave the audience breathless and the suspense is at a high level. FIVE DAYS IN SUMMER is a very frightening book because the victims could be anyone, anywhere since the perpetrator chooses them at random. The killer is hiding in plain sight but no one would ever suspect him until the end.

In Your Eyes
Laura Moore
Ivy
ISBN: 0804120056 $6.99

Financial genius Alex Miller ends his relationship with Sydney Raines, who refuses to believe it is over. Though he was honest from the start, she thought they would marry. Now he regrets hiring her firm to oversee a gala he is throwing although she and her partner Harry Byrne are excellent at it. Instead, Alex looks forward to seeing "roller blades" skate in Central Park. Grace Miller hires artist Gen Monaghan to paint a mural at Children's Hospital in Boston and even offers the young artist the use of her late husband's studio in Long Island. At the same time, Alex buys a painting done by Gen. When he finds out that his aunt is allowing an artist to use the studio, he has Gen investigated. However, when he meets Gen he is attracted and soon learns she is his fantasy roller blades woman. As they fall in love, her mentor currently in the Czech Republic wants her to join him and Sydney tells Gen she is pregnant; thinking that Alex is the father; Gen plans to join Jiri in Europe. This is a fun contemporary romance starring a wonderful lead couple and some zany support players. The fatal attraction seems weak and unnecessary as Alex and Gen have enough to keep them at arm's length in spite of the obvious magnetism. Still the audience will appreciate this fine tale of love between a patron and an artist with his aunt as the matchmaking grandmaster fostering the relationship.

File Under Dead
Mark Richard Zubro
St. Martin's
ISBN: 0312280971 $23.95, 256 pp.

Although he likes being a high school teacher and interacting with the students as a gay man Tom Mason feels the need to work with gay teens, who need an adult's help to guide them through their various trials and crises. He volunteers at the Oscar Wilde Gay Youth services advising the teens who are suicidal, afraid to come out, and how to deal with their parents. There's a lot of backbiting and infighting between the staff and the head of the clinic Charlie Fitch, the executive director. Tom tries to stay away from the politics of the situation but when he opens his file cabinet and finds Charlie's severed head, he becomes a suspect in a murder investigation. Eventually, the police arrest counselor Lee Weaver because his fingerprints are on the murder weapon (an axe) and had a motive as Charlie fired him the night of the murder. Tom counseled Lee when he was teen and he does not believe Lee is the killer. He intends to prove it since he has access to the people involved but before he can find Charlie's killer he finds two more murder victims. Mark Richard Zubro has written an exciting amateur sleuth novel but FILE UNDER DEAD is so much more than that. It is a story about teens who do not know how to go against the norm in turns of their sexuality and the counselors who talk the more troubled ones out of considering suicide, and help them accept the consequences if their parents find out and can't cope with the truth. This fine mystery has heart giving readers an insider's view of the problems facing gay teens.

Bitch Slap
Michael Craft
St. Martin's
ISBN: 0312305303 $23.95, 288 pp.

The two largest companies in Dumont County, Wisconsin, Quatro Press and Ashton Mills, are engaging in a friendly merger depending on the due diligence findings of independent auditor Tyler Pennell; the CPA checks the books of both companies to make sure there are no irregularities. Gillian Reece, CEO at Ashton Industries will run Ashton/ Quatro and Perry Shield, CEO at Quatro Press, will probably retire with millions in stock sales. Neil Waite, architect extraordinaire and significant other of Mark Manning, owner-publisher of the Dumont Daily Register, is erecting a showcase home for Gillian and her husband Esmond. When Mark and his reporter Glee Savage go over to look at the new home, Glee slaps Gillian when she sees her. Over the next few days, Gillian shows her true colors as she slaps Esmond who wants her to keep a promise and interior designer Todd, for not giving her the curtains she demanded. Afterward, Mark and his second in command at the paper find Gillian dead at the bottom of the ladder. The coroner thinks she fell accidentally but an anonymous tip details the victim's dirty dealings that involve embezzlement that could have bankrupted the county if her plans had gone into affect. Mark is determined to find the tipster and the possible killer but everyone who knew her is a suspect with very viable motives. The Mark Manning mysteries are always fascinating, entertaining amateur sleuth novels because the protagonist always finagles his way onto a homicide investigation. In the latest installment, Mark has his work cut out for him because everyone who knew the victim had a reason for wanting her dead. The loving relationship between the hero and his partner adds an extra layer of depth to a creative who-done-it. Michael Craft deserves a Lambda award for this book and the whole series.

Hasty Death
Marion Chesney
St. Martin's
ISBN: 0312304536 $22.95, 224 pp.

It might be the dawn of a new century, but women remain the property of their father, brother, or husband. The chasm between the social classes is as large as it has ever been and females of Polite Society are expected to marry a rich titled gent. Lady Rose Summer, daughter of an earl, is not content to idly party, as she prefers to work. Her reluctant but suffering parents accept her laboring at a bank alongside her former maid Daisy. At the bank, Rose learns of the murder of Mr. Pomfret. She checks the records and learns that three people deposited funds into the account of the deceased. Rose discusses her finding with private detective Captain Henry Cathcart and both agree that it seems the victim blackmailed several people, of which all had the motive to kill him. Unable to resist, Rose accompanied by Henry and her maid Daisy hunt for the killer. Although this novel takes place at the beginning of the twentieth century in enlightened London, the gap between the social classes remains as vast as ever and the suffragette movement is just starting to impact society. The solid investigation into the cleverly designed mystery is fun to follow especially in light of Rose's deeper agenda to gain the attention of her "social inferior" Harry. Sparks fly while they making inquiries, which makes for a terrific tale from Marion Chesney, know for her Agatha Raisin and Hamish Macbeth tales.

Sideways
Rex Pickett
St. Martin's
ISBN: 0312324669 $13.95, 354 pp.

In Santa Monica, Miles Raymond wonders where he went wrong. Divorced for over a year, his writing efforts a failure and now his landlord is on his butt, he ponders whether his wine expertise has pickled his brain. Still he looks forward to the trek with his best friend actor Jack Cole as they travel to Santa Ynez wine country to celebrate the latter's last week as a free bachelor. Jack shocks Miles with his expectations, a week of sexual depravity starting with a bimbo he picks up as soon as they arrive. Miles also meets Maya who wants him, but he becomes philosophical ignoring the sexual attraction between them. He ponders why modern day marriages usually end in divorce, thinking of him and Victoria while envying her new spouse. He conjectures whether marriage could survive if society-accepted men sleeping around? Meanwhile Jack hops into another bed until the women learn he is getting married on Sunday and bring, with a bang, Miles out of his musing and the fure groom out of the boudoir. This male bonding road show is a step above most genre entries because of the sensitive, at times maudlin, but mostly amusing narrative by Miles. Readers will genuinely be fond of Miles but wonder what is wrong with Jack as he out of control when sows his wild oats. The support cast adds to the wackiness whether it is to hunt women and animals or crash a car. SIDEWAYS is a fun tale that is at its best when the slapstick is limited and Miles contemplates relationships while ignoring a potentially loving one.

Shakedown Beach
Eric Dezenhall
St. Martin's
ISBN: 0312307721 $24.95, 336 pp.

New Jersey Governor "Rebound" Rothman runs for the senate with plans to go for the White House next. However, Rebound has three-decade-old skeletons in his closet. He has hidden away one female intern, former township beauty queen winner and All American bimbo Simone Lava, in Atlantic City's Celebrity Motel, run down since the first Johnson Administration. . However, someone films Rebound's tryst proclivities. Rebound hires pollster Jonah Eastman to fix his senate run. Jonah handed Rebound the governorship when he painted the opponent as causing a hurricane the size of Asia that destroyed rural South Jersey (do not laugh; there really is a rural Jersey). Spinning the assignation film is easy. Dealing with Rebound's support of riverboat gambling in light of a credibility gap involving crooked casino owners is complex because investigative reporter Barri "Barium Enema" Embry needs political exposes to connive his way to cross the Hudson. Jonah brings in the troops, damage control expert Chief Willie Thundercloud and nonagenarian former mob enforcer Irv the Curve to spin a tale that Machiavelli would appreciate. As with JACKIE DISASTER, SHAKEDOWN BEACH is a terrific look at modern day image making that our leaders spend fortunes on to include painting the opponent in a bad light. Truth is meaningless as Jonah and his associates know that for Rebound to win they must provide an Atlantic Ocean size lie or two about their client and his opponent. Witty, humorous, but in many ways frightening, the story line will shake readers as they realize Madison Avenue not oil runs the country. Eric Dezenhall makes New Jersey the spin capital of the world with a tale well worth reading especially with the election coming soon.

Buried Dreams
Brendan DuBois
St. Martin's
ISBN: 0312327315 $23.95, 272 pp.

In Tyler Beach, New Hampshire, Shoreline Magazine reporter Lewis Cole met Jon Ericson a few times starting with a simple glass of water. They had short discussions mostly centered on the amateur archaeologist's theory that his Viking ancestors had established colonies along New Hampshire's eighteen miles of coastline. Jon's belief goes against accepted theory that the Vikings landed further north. Jon invites Lewis to his home to show him the artifacts that support his unusual theory. However, when Cole arrives for his meeting with Jon, he learns form his best friend Police Detective Diane Woods that someone killed the amateur archaeologist. Diane, who has ambitions, lectures the civilian Cole to stay out of the investigation. Perhaps it is the journalist's ink that runs throughout his blood, but Cole ignores her warning and makes inquiries starting with the people Jon mentioned to him that he consulted with on his quest. The New Hampshire professor, a historian, and a Native American activist offer little; the victim's vanished brother tenders nothing either. However, his questioning must have hit home because someone tries to kill him by loosening the lug nuts on his car. That incident only inspires Lewis to seek the truth. This novel is an exhilarating journalist investigative murder mystery that takes off from the moment that Lewis and Jon meet until the final confrontation with the latter's killer. As Lewis traipse throughout New England seeking clues, adding depth with a twist is the historical perspective of the Vikings coming to New Hampshire that coaxes readers to ponder the hypothesis. Fans of an exciting action-packed yet cerebral mystery will enjoy Lewis' latest adventure.

And Then Came You
Maureen Child
St. Martin's
ISBN: 0312997523 $6.99, 352 pp.

When Samantha Marconi was eighteen she met and fell in love with upper crust Jeff Hendricks. The couple married over the objections of their family. He left for London on business and she became pregnant. He never returned to her, contacted her or answered her letters except to provide her with the divorce papers. She gave up the child for adoption. Nine years, Jeff visits Sam to ask her to sign new divorce papers as the ones they signed were never filed by the government clerk. He is going to remarry. However, when she goes to see him at his hotel, she sees a miniature Marconi as he as raised the child she left behind. They share angry notes and soon realize his deceased mother orchestrated the split. Sam insists she has time with Emma or else; Jeff agrees. As Emma plays matchmaker, the spark between Jeff and Sam reignites, but can they overcome their history even if they are in love and love the same third person. Why Sam gave up her newborn with the loving family she had seems odd though it apparently has to do with her mom's death just before the birth. Fans will enjoy this fine contemporary tale. The Marconi mob is a tough crowd that any male would think twice of defying. Jeff is a solid protagonist, Emma is a precocious child (too accepting of her mom in her life), and his deceased mom was a maestro manipulator who made Machiavelli look like an amateur. The interplay between everyone makes for a fine tale.

Divas Inc
Donna Hill
St. Martin's
ISBN: 0312316518 $12.95, 320 pp.

Maggie, Tiffany, and Chantal have been friends for a long time going back to pre elementary school. While the flirtatious Tiffany and Chantal have been dude magnets able to get males to do their bidding since first grade, Maggie has always been reticent and in awe of the dynamic duo. Tiffany and Chantal remain successful, obtaining fabulous jobs and homes as everyone considers the two women as Divas. Maggie envies them but loves her pals. When Tiffany and Chantal go on an extended vacation, she agrees to watch their expensive New York apartments. Soon Maggie begins emulating her friends and though still overweight with glasses, hunks take notice of her for the first time. She learns that Tiffany and Chantal belong to the exclusive women only Divas, Inc., club for females who demand the best. However, as she begins obtaining multiple boyfriends and behaving like a Diva, Maggie worries that at midnight Cinderella will only have a mouse to show for her efforts. This is an amusing contemporary tale that gently winks at some of society's "Ivana" like assumptions. Maggie is a delightful protagonist as she gradually turns from bookworm to diva. Fans will notice that this tale lacks Donna Hill's normal deep drama but readers who enjoy an urban Cinderella like frolic will appreciate the humorous somewhat biting DIVAS, INC.

Murder Suicide
Keith Ablow
St. Martin's
ISBN: 0312323891 $21.95, 320 pp.

John Snow was a genius who made millions from his inventions but the money came at a price. Every time he was near a breakthrough, he suffered a severe grand mal epileptic seizure. Unable to live with the affliction anymore, he decided to have cutting edge brain surgery that could cause blindness or leave him unable to remember any of the people closest to him. An hour before he was due for surgery someone killed him in the alley near the hospital. Forensic psychiatrist Frank Clevenger is asked by Detective Mike Coady of the Boston police department to determine whether John committed suicide or was murdered, as the autopsy results were inconclusive. By accepting the case, Frank has to look at all the people who were closest to the man, his wife, business partner, children and mistress to see who had a motive. He discovers they all did. Keith Ablow is one of the best thriller writers on the market today. His protagonist, a psychologically flawed person, overcomes the abuse he suffered from his sadistic father to help people and to make sure the killers are caught so they won't hurt anyone ever again. There is a lot of action scenes in MURDER SUICIDE but the best parts of this exciting thriller is watching the hero put the pieces of the puzzle together.

The Bourne Legacy
Eric Van Lustbader
St. Martin's
ISBN: 0312331754 $25.95, 464 pp.

David Webb teaches comparative languages at Georgetown University though he misses the excitement of his former life as a government employee working clandestine operations. Following an on campus incident, David reflects back to the death of his first wife and children in Phnom Penh, his meeting of his former handler Alex Conklin, his execution of Jason Bourne, and his three years as Bourne the assassin with an international reputation until he almost died. Now David is a married academic with two children, but Bourne still lingers on the edges and sometimes over the top. A cracked marksman tries to kill David on the campus, but he cleverly escapes as Bourne takes over. Jason visits his former handler only to find Alex and agency psychologist Mo Panov dead. The CIA assumes Bourne went rogue. As Jason eludes the CIA and a professional as good as he was in his hey day, he remains unaware that he is an expendable pawn in a global game that is set for five days hence. THE BOURNE LEGACY is a terrific tale that the late Robert Ludlum would have been proud to write because Eric Van Lustbader keeps the essences of both David and Jason consistent with previous novels. The story line is fast-paced from the moment Khan takes two shots at David on the Georgetown campus and never slows down until the final confrontation. Readers will be shocked as to why Bourne became dragged into the middle of a plot that threatened heads of states in this terrific tale in which his life in Southeast Asia has surfaced in DC.

Blitz
Ken Bruen
St. Martin's
ISBN: 0312327269 $12.95, 272 pp.

The police psychiatrist asks South East Detective Sergeant Brant to talk about his tendency towards violence when the patient lights up a cigarette in the non-smoking office and head butts the shrink. As the Super lectures Chief Inspector Roberts over his failure to reign in Brant's abusiveness, the latter learns his wife died in a car accident. Super has his favorite poster boy handsome PC McDonald take home the distraught Roberts. Officer WPC "Black is Beautiful" Falls fails a key exam while goof McDonald, who almost cost her life, remains the Super's pet. Still the fair haired McDonald runs into trouble; Brant sets him up to look like a stooge and he had an accident in which he killed a bloke. While Roberts replaces his wife with alcohol as his companion, Falls turns to drugs and a skinhead for solace, and Brant is on the brink of suspension, The BLITZ murders police officer Sandra Miller. Other cops are killed and soon the South East London Police Squad knows they must stop a vicious serial killer. However, with Roberts deep into mourning and Brant in deep trouble, Porter Nash leads the investigative task force which only angers his superiors, Roberts and Brant. Living up to its title, BLITZ, fans will feel just that way with this one sitting trip on London's wild side. Readers get a close up look at several cops struggling with personal problems when the serial killer, seeking publicity, begins a reign of terror that grips London and the audience. The ending is a delightful twist that will leave police procedural lovers seeking more urban noirs from Ken Bruen (see THE GUARDS and KILLING OF THE TINKERS).

Ten Big Ones
Janet Evanovich
St. Martin's
ISBN: 0312289723 $25.95, 320 pp.

Bond Enforcement Agent Stephanie Plum and her sometimes partner Lula are outside the deli-mart trying to decide what to eat when a man wearing a red devil mask runs out of the store. He has a Molotov cocktail that he throws into the store he just robbed but the manager catches it and throws it back bouncing it off the culprit's head into Stephanie's car. The car catches fire and the criminal takes off his mask and Stephanie realizes she can identify him. Her live in lover Joe Morelli tells her he is associated with the street gang Comstack Street Slayer. Without thinking of the consequences, Stephanie and Lula go into Slayer territory to look for the Red Devil robber when gang members, some of which jump on her car, surround them. She drives away, throwing the gang members into the street and the next thing she knows the Slayers have imported the hitman Junkman to take her and a few other people out. Stephanie comes up with an deliciously felonious plan to find out who is on the Junkman's hit list and why but she is still in danger with Joe and Ranger, the sexy bounty hunter who is Joe's rival doing their best to protect a woman who needs her freedom. This is obviously the tenth Stephanie Plum novel and unbelievably it is one of the best in the series. It is fresh, funny, upbeat, and populated with the quirky characters readers have come to love. Stephanie's relationship with Ranger is definitely heating up. It is delightful to watch the heroine doing her job while hiding out from the gang members. Janet Evanovich score again with an undeniably great crime novel. This author has so much talent it is no wonder she is always on the bestseller lists.

Priceless
Marne Davis Kellogg
St. Martin's
ISBN: 0312303815 $23.95, 320 pp.

She led a duel life as the power behind a London auction house while separating the undeserving rich from their fabulous jewels. Kick Keswick was a media icon for her daring thefts, always leaving a bouquet of shamrocks tied by a ribbon behind. Never caught, she retired to Province where she married Scotland Yard's Thomas Curtis, an art thief known as the Samaritan Burglar. They were very happy in their new life until the day Thomas disappears with Kick's jewels. A heartbroken Kick becomes very angry when she reads about a jewel thief that is using her name and leaving a bunch of shamrocks behind after each heist. Afraid that if the thief continues she will be caught for past crimes, Kick decides to find the imposter, recover the jewelry and return it to its owners. In Portafuro, at a private charity event, the Millennium Star will be worn by a Hollywood actress. No true jewel thief can resist such an offering; Kick finagles an invitation to slay at the villa where she puts a plan in motion that will allow her if she is lucky to steal the Star and the rest of the jewels the imposter took. Kick is her adorable, felonious self, a mature, wealthy vulnerable woman who has come out of retirement to catch a thief. This upbeat comic crime caper is fast paced, extremely creative and filled with quirky characters that add much spice to this sensual suspense tale. Ironically, Thomas is the person in charge of catching the thief and the meeting at the Villa between the estranged husband and wife is a memorable scene.

Murder on Nob Hill
Shirley Tallman
St. Martin's
ISBN: 0312328559 $23.95, 304 pp.

In 1880, though females are not accepted as lawyers twenty-seven years old Sarah Lorraine Woolson, who learned the law from her father, Superior Court Judge for the County of San Francisco, feels capable and ready. She pulls a name game ploy using her brother Samuel, which enables S.L. Woolson to gain entry into the firm of Shepherd, Shepherd, McNaughton and Hall, attorneys-at-law. Then she "steals" a wealthy client Annjennet Hannaford when the distraught widow decries a lack of legal service from the firm's lawyer Mr. Wylde. This presumptuous act forces fuming senior partner Joseph Shepherd to acknowledge Sarah as a junior associate. Three weeks ago, someone murdered Cornelius, Annjennet's husband of seven years, leaving her as the prime suspect and without assets. Sarah immediately enables her client to obtain money while the estate remains in probate. Not long afterward, the police arrest Annjennet and her lover for the murder. While the law firm believes she is guilty, Sarah follows the money trail of how Hannaford and three partners made a fortune. When the partners are also killed as gruesomely as Hannaford, Sarah continues her inquiries while shaking up the male legal establishment. MURDER ON NOB HILL is an entertaining historical legal thriller starring a courageous and charming champion. The story line brings to life the sexist glass ceiling that leaves competent females beneath the lowest rung of the food chain while also providing insight into laws such as the Married Woman's Property Act. Chutzpah Sarah is a wonderful protagonist and her firm's appointed shadow Robert, with his "wardrobe" and "courtside manner" problems, adds a touch of romantic frustration to a fine tale.

Drums Along the Jack Ford
Henry Hoffman
Echelon
ISBN: 1590803086 $11.99, 203 pp.

In 1993, still mourning the plane crash deaths of her beloved parents, Wilhelmina "Billie" Staley accepts a job as librarian of the Woodland Hills Public Library in the Ozarks part of Missouri. She also moves in with her Uncle Ray. Her first day on the job opens with a controversy when state official Chad Jenkins arrives insisting that the local facility automate or lose accreditation. Apparently, the town's deceased previous librarian dedicated the building and funds as long as the library remained computer-less. Billie insists that she will do what is best for her patrons, which is not necessarily automation. Chad gives Billie two months to decide. A second controversy surfaces when militia move into the area leading to a divided populace. Still Billie goes about her job trying to replace a local legend while also falling in love with trail ride guide Cory Winston. However, her new town is heading to disaster with no happy ending in sight as the militia activities endanger one and all. DRUMS ALONG THE JACK FORD is an engaging slice of Americana as the locals skirmish over two diverse issues, that of automating the library services and welcoming the militia. The two subplots easily could have stood alone as each contains plenty to merit its own tale be told so both end up competing for top dog. Still Billie is a delightful protagonist who keeps the two themes focused so that the audience tastes small town life at a time when outsiders threaten everyone's lifestyle.

The Assignment
Mark Andrew Olsen
Bethany House
ISBN: 076422817X $12.99, 400 pp.

Lazarus experienced the beauty of Heaven only to be brought back to life by Jesus to act as the Catacon, "the restrainer of destruction" who will be taken away just before the end of time". His primary role is to send the destroyer back to hell but every time he comes close, his enemy's minions bury him for decades at a time. The priests of the Order of St. Lazare spend decades trying to find him. When they do, Lazarus sees a world more technologically advanced but with the same old hatreds. The 2000-year-old man is tired and wants to go home for he no longer believes that the destroyer can be defeated. Nora, a Harvard graduate student, is almost kidnapped by members of Hamas and a Roman Catholic priest. Lazarus saves her and disappears but Nora tracks him down in Paris where she learns the truth about her long-living relative. The destroyer knowing Lazarus is loose, sets in motion a series of events that bring the world to the edge of war and Lazarus vows to fight him one more time. Told from the viewpoints of many different characters including Lazarus, one can understand why immortality is as much a curse as it is a blessing. There is no sense of Divinity about the protagonist but he is a catalyst that sets events in motion the ongoing battle of good and evil. Surprisingly, this is not a preachy or apostatizing story but reads more like an urban fantasy in which the powers of good and evil fight for supremacy. Mark Andrew Olson is a talent comparable to Frank Peretti and Jerry Jenkins.

No Dark Valley
Jamie Langston Turner
Bethany House
ISBN: 0764227300 $12.99, 400 pp.

When Celia Coleman was fifteen, a DUI killed her parents in what the family forever called the "clothes dryer" day. Celia moved in with her dirt-poor pious grandmother. They did not get along as the younger felt God abandoned her while the older remained a fanatical believer. Celia leaves for college in Delaware and afterward becomes a South Carolina gallery art director, goes home to Dunmore, Georgia for the first time in fourteen years to attend her grandmother's funeral, but remains embarrassed by her roots. After the funeral, Celia finds a new family moved in next door to her. She is attracted to her new neighbor Bruce, but she will not act on it because besides he is married. Bruce reciprocates the feelings, but has his own demons to contend with including caring for his sister and his niece. Celia concludes that her sour piss grandma was content with her life while she is not. She begins to seek solace with God even as heavenly matchmaking skills assist her and Bruce to relate starting with a toilet plunger. NO DARK VALLEY is an intriguing character study that looks deep into the soul of a woman who lost all faith in the Lord when her parents were killed. The story line bares open Celia so that the audience can see her discontentment. The secondary characters furbish further insight into what Celia feels as some condemn her while others offer rejected sustenance. Though there is little action, Jamie Langston Turner provides her audience with a deep look at the impact of survivors when bad things happen to good loved ones.

The Shadow Within
Karen Hancock
Bethany House
ISBN: 0764227955 $12.99 400 pp.

After renouncing the Holy Brotherhood of the Matis, Abramm the Prince of Kiraith was sold into slavery by his brother Gillard who wanted the throne for himself. At Abramm's lowest point he reached out to the god Eidon who accepted him as one of his own. He proudly wears the shield that every true believer of Eidon has. It has been six long years since he has been to Kiraith but he returns to take the crown he never wanted because Gillard is leading his country to ruin. His return is a dramatic one as he kills a spawn in a ferocious sea battle with the help of the Light of Eidon. He openly challenges the council for the throne, not showing them he wears the shield of Eidon. The members of the council are so impressed by the man he has become that he becomes the ruler of Kiraith leaving Gillard os only the heir-apparent. He knows war is coming from many kingdoms who think Kiraith is weak and open for a takeover but before he can deal with that problem, he must come to terms with his younger brother Gillard who would rather plunge the country into civil war than see his brother rule. Abramm must battle religious fanatics, creatures of the shadow and the duplicity of man if he wants to keep the kingship. He must have faith in Eildon's plans for him and acknowledge his faith if he is to become the man he is meant to be. In Abraaham's world, his god is close to his followers, speaking to them and if their faith is strong enough, obeying his instructions. This is the second installment in the LEGENDS OF THE GUARDIAN KING and it is every bit as good as the prequel (LIGHT OF EIDON). Evil takes many forms in this story and one must believe in the light to see the darkness. Karen Hancock is a great world builder who has created a fantasy series that is reminiscent of the Arthurian mythos. The protagonist is a true hero because he takes on a kingship he never wanted because he believes his people need him to fight in, both magical and mundane wars, battle shadow creatures and human enemies and in time win the hearts of the people who once rejected him. There is a sub-plot involving the beginning of a romance between the king and the second daughter of the king of Chesdeh instead of the first daughter that everyone believes he should marry. Karen Hancock has written a beautiful adult fairy tale that readers will find delightful.

A Tapestry of Hope
Tracie Peterson & Judith Miller
Bethany House
ISBN: 0764228943 $12.99, 350 pp.

In 1846 at The Willows Plantation near Lorman, Mississippi, Jasmine Wainwright is stunned that her Papa included her in a business deal with the Massachusetts mill owner Bradley Houston. Besides selling cotton to Bradley, Papa's daughter Jasmine will marry the Yankee to cement the deal. She will soon learn that her spouse is an ambitious man willing to destroy anyone to achieve his goals including annihilating his Southern Belle. Irish siblings Kiara and Paddy O'Neill work as indentured servants to Bradley. Though he is married, Bradley desires Kiara and willingly uses the threat of obliterating her brother to make Kiara acquiesce. These are two women from diverse backgrounds with two things in common: surviving the abuse of Bradley and turning to God to help them succeed. Separately neither can make it, but together their prayers and their joint courage give both hope. This debut of the "Lights of Lowell" tales is an exhilarating inspirational historical novel. The story line brings to life the first major American industrial area as well as plantation life in the south just after the Mexican War. The key to the warmth and faith that the story line projects is the two female characters. Kiara and Jasmine are solid portrayals representing two diverse lifestyles yet through their beliefs share A TAPESTRY OF HOPE. Though Bradley has no redeeming qualities, readers will enjoy this slice of Americana long the Merrimack.

Ancestors of Avalon
Diana L. Paxson and Marion Zimmer Bradley
Viking
ISBN: 0670033146 $25.95, 363 pp.

Temple of the Light Guardian Tiriki and her husband Prince-Priest Micail know between the dreams and the violent tremors that the mountain is awakening with already three devastating tremors in two days. Although they would prefer to remain in each other's arms, each has duties and responsibilities. Micail must provide leadership to the frightened inhabitants while Tiriki perform the ritual to reinforce balance at the Omphalos Stone. However, in spite of their heroic efforts and those of others like Aldel the Acolyte who sacrificed her life to save the Omphalos Stone, the end has arrived for the islanders of Atlantis. It is time to sail away by from Atlantis where many die and a rich heritage is almost certainly buried beneath the sea. Tiriki and Micail are separated probably forever. While most mourn the loss of their culture and the adaptation that will needed when the survivors reach the Isle of the Mighty, some see opportunity not loss. Acolyte Damisa feels the new world gives her a choice of following the path of a priestess to a religion she no longer believes in based on the recent cataclysm or a power grab to become Queen. Only Tiriki could potentially stand in her way. ANCESTORS OF AVALON may be the best of the Avalon tales. The story line stands alone due to the strength of the characterizations especially the two surviving female rivals, yet also interconnects the myriad of plots from the previously published books that actually occur after the events of this saga. Series fans will see the tree trunk that leads to the numerous branches. In Darkover-Avalon heaven there is surely a smiling female author pleased with the results.

Unveiling Mary Magdalene
Liz Curtis Higgs
Waterbrook
ISBN: 140007021X $13.99

"The Story". On an icy Chicago day, Pastor Jake Stauros of Calvary Fellowship sees the desperate mumbling woman in her Goodwill wardrobe struggling to walk so he offered her help. Mary Margaret Delaney pretends to ignore his kindness and just keeps slipping, and incoherently saying "Luna". Jake truly wants to help her, but wonders how to reach Mary Margaret without a miracle as she acts as if demons possess her mind, and soul. Yet with God's help he has assisted several rag tag muffins now part of the Calvary Fellowship. He will continue to pray for Mary Margaret, show her she is not alone, and optimistically hope she will join them. Mary Margaret's story is a brilliantly written modern day parable paralleling that of Mary Magdalene so that readers can place a contemporary context on perhaps the bible's "baddest girl". "The Study". Will the real Mary Magdalene stand up? Was she a courageous individual who followed Jesus and quickly became more than just a believer, but the person who was honored with being the first to see his reappearance? Was she a prostitute, Jesus' earthly lover or was that bad PR by a male dominated medieval church? Was she possessed by demons? Liz Curtis Higgs answers all the above and more with a thought provoking, well researched look at the New Testament. Using specific references that are easy to follow, Ms. Higgs furbishes a powerful intriguing case of who was the real Mary Magdalene. UNVEILING MARY MAGDALENE is a terrific two-part combo that provides a wonderful novelette with an insightful biblical study that enables the audience to come away with a full understanding of one of the bible's "goodest" girls.

Dragonspell
Donita K. Paul
Waterbrook
ISBN: 1578568234 $12.99

The Dragon Egg seeks a champion to rescue it from the malevolent wizard Risto, who plans to use the essence inside to create a nightmarish species loyal only to him that will populate the earth and destroy all others. The dragon egg selects fourteen-year-old female slave Kale as the savior. Though feeling afraid and inadequate for such a momentous undertaking because she knows that to succeed she will have to confront Risto in his environs, Kale reluctantly, but telepathically encouraged by the being who chose her, begins her dangerous trek. The "knowing" Lord Paladin sends servants, an Emerlinden woman Leetu and Dar the Doneel to accompany Kale. They explain that Paladin somehow knows about her undertaking and insists she must start on the quest by obtaining the help and guidance of the Wizard Fenworth. The journey at all times will be fraught with enemies who will do anything to stop the group. This coming of age youthful innocence vs. evil fantasy will hook teens and adults due to the fully developed key cast members. Readers will root for Kale even as we will laugh at some of the conversations between her and the dragon egg and between her companions. Genre fans will believe in the magic of wizards, the telepathic communication abilities of dragons and that species like Emerlinden and Doneel exist. With terrific characterization inside a tremendous story line, Donita K. Paul obviously used a dragon's egg to cast a spell on the audience.

Dark to Mortal Eyes
Eric Wilson
Waterbrook
ISBN: 1578567440 $13.99

Her wealthy parents Kara and Marsh Addison dumped Josee Walker for adoption because her father did not want to deal with the emotion of loving a kid. Two decades plus later, twenty-three years old Josee has become a cynic, clearly reflected in her work as an artist and poet. She cares little if any about other people. Still Josee needs to know why her biological parents dumped her. She returns to her birth home in Oregon, but Marsh refuses to meet with her while Kara desperately wants to see the child she gave up though she loved her with all her heart. While walking in the Willamette Valley, Josee finds a canister containing a poison that can destroy the body and the soul. Marsh's mother warns her that she has found something evil and soon a malevolent being begins to creep out of the shadows with plans to destroy the Addisons and their rejected daughter. Knowing she must find a way to defeat this malicious foe that she does not understand, Josee needs to find the faith that she lost when her parents dumped her because she needs a miracle to succeed. This intriguing complex thriller grips readers from the moment Josee finds the canister until she shows off her latest tattoo. The story line is action-packed, and the plot twists in ways that constantly surprise the audience so casual readers beware. Though hints and clues are interspersed throughout the tale, fans will not fully realize what is happening until the final showdown. Readers will appreciate this dark with a glimmer of light suspenseful novel.

The Duet
Robert Elmer
Waterbrook
ISBN: 1578567408 $12.99, 296 pp.

Widow Joan Marie Horton takes a leave of absence from teaching at New York's Gaylord School of Music to spend time with her pregnant daughter Alison and son-in-law Jim in Van Dalen, Washington. To earn money, Joan Marie fills in for piano teacher Linda Klopstra, who is in Romania for a year, teaching students. Elderly Gerrit Appeldoom still mourns the loss of his beloved long time spouse Miriam and almost as much the loss of his family's dairy farm. His beliefs shattered and with nothing to occupy him, he feels empty. Gerrit accompanies his granddaughter Mallory for her piano lessons. When he hears Joan Marie playing, Gerrit finds his old appreciation for music beyond Johnny Cash has resurfaced. He is even ready to dance to the music and decides he wants lessons from Joan Marie. Through Joan Marie, Gerrit also rediscovers the Lord. Though concerned how their loved ones will react, they fall in love; now both know that Jesus will guide them and their families into doing the right thing. This is an engaging inspirational character study focusing on the relationships between two older individuals to one another, their children and grandchildren, and the Lord. The story avoids being to maudlin because Joan Marie and Gerrit are real people wanting to do the best for others, but now have a second chance to do something for themselves. Although there is little action, readers who appreciate a powerful insightful look into the souls of protagonists will want to accompany the DUET as they play a beautiful melody.

Blessings of Mossy Creek
Sandra Chastain and Virginal Ellis, et al
Belle Books
ISBN: 0967303559 $14.95

It is a blessing to live in Mossy Creek located hours North of Atlanta, where everyone who lives there wants to stay there. Neighbors help friends and arguments are usually settled amicably. Outsiders who move there are warmly welcomed as long as they treat others, as they want to be treated. When the bride has no flowers for her wedding day, the groom tries to find them but it is the people of Mossy Creek who work together to fill up the church with roses and one woman donates her prize winning rose instead of entering them in the local competition. The owner of a ballet school and the owner of the funeral home are feuding and disturbing the newly bereaved. Tango lessons temporarily solve the problem and friendship finds a solution. Even the children in Mossy Creek are kind hearted. John Wesley has been saving up all summer to buy his mother a birthday present but when a homeless hungry family of migrant workers passes through town, he gives them his money for gasoline and food. On an amusing note, the town bands together to save a tree from being torn down while Amos the chief of police tries to get Ida the mayor to admit she has feelings for him. There are many more blessings in Katie Bell's column in the Mossy Creek Gazette; they are all tender, worn-hearted and uplifting as the ones in this review. Mossy Creek combines the atmosphere of an Anne River Seddons' novel with the magic of a Barbara Samuels' character study. The latest trip is worth the journey.

Diary of a Radical Mermaid
Deborah Smith
Belle Books
ISBN: 0967303575 $14.95, 234 pp.

The race of Mers lives in, on, or by the sea but they do not have tails or shift from half human to human and back again. They are very strong physically and are able to speak telepathically with their own kind and the high order of sea creatures. June Lee Pourfox is on probation because she squelched with Donald Trump and a Mer. She is in the custody of Lilith who asks her to bring Molly Reve, a famous writer who tells stories about mermaids to Bellmede a seaside town right across from Seinte's Point Island. Molly, who suffers from Leukemia and damaged legs, fears that her cat is going to die any day of old age. She is a floater, a person with Mer blood running through her veins but is unaware of her heritage. June Lee kidnaps Molly and brings her to the home of her clan where she meets Rhymer. He is a Mer who is protecting his three races from their father, a sleeper much more powerful than Singers like Molly and Rhymer. He believes the swimmer killed his sister and is doing his best to keep his nieces away from him. Rhymer and Molly fall in love and through his affections, she comes into her powers as a Mer and is physically blessed and ready to battle with the swimmer. This romantic fantasy is a combination of romance, chick-lit and conspiracy thriller. Deborah Smith creates a world of Mers that is so believable readers will believe they celebrate the world and have the ability to do it if some brave Mers do not stop them. DIARY OF A RADICAL MERMAID is a cross between Lara Croft's Tomb Raider and Daryl Hannah's Splash. Ms Smith is a joy to read because she knows how to give pleasure to readers who want something magical.

Job: A Man of Endurance
Charles R. Swindoll
W. Publishing
ISBN: 0849990580 $15.95, 371 pp.

As he has done with other Great Lives biblical biographies (see David, Esther, Joseph, Moses, Elijah, and Paul), Charles R. Swindoll provides a deep look at Job. This is not a biblical biographical fictionalized account of the bible. Instead, he furbishes a study starting with the Old Testament passages that first paint a picture of a pious, happy and successful person until "Sahtan" challenges God to test the holiness of Job by stripping away his life. Job becomes the victim of the ultimate test of humankind's faith in God when even the Lord apparently abandoned him. Will he lose his belief, as he suffers from one Sahtan atrocity after another; or will his faith enable him to endure? Mr. Swindoll goes over the passages with a fine toothcomb providing modern day examples to explain the underlying lessons of Job. Most people who have read the biblical book find it difficult to accept why God would allow such an extreme experiment especially on a good person. Besides providing obvious insight into Job, Mr. Swindoll offers intriguing insight into the key "characters" who star in this drama and a theory as to why the events occurred. Biblical readers will appreciate this powerful deep look into Job, a man with the fortitude to endure incredibly devilish torture.

Scarab-4
S. Roy L. Hawkins
Trafford
ISBN: 155369015X $24.25

In 4066 in the Loki Galaxy, the New-Carthaginian Corsair pirates attack the Imperial navy ships targeting the vessel containing the preadolescent Emperor-Select. Colonel Bradshaw acts quickly when he realizes his ship is ruined. He, the child, the child's seven foot plus nanny-bodyguard Captain Rikki Dix and a few others escape on a lifeboat to a nearby relatively unexplored extremely dangerous planet, Scarab-4 with little hope to survive until help can arrive. The Emperor sends his best soldier, Beauwulf Ben-Galivan to rescue his grandson, the heir to his throne. Although he receives little knowledge about this remote orb, Beau immediately journeys to Scarab-4 knowing most likely the nanny turned traitor. After landing on the surface, Beau begins a perilous adventure to rescue the survivors, if any, on a hostile planet with the enemy carrying out a search and kill mission. He makes allies with a local female Pesciss and a cross species love blossoms between them. However, the mission and survival come before desire. This powerful space opera hooks the reader from the moment the naval crew and civilians flee to Scarab-4 and never lets up until a couple of marriages occur. The action-packed story line has several subplots, but it is at its best when events occur on the harsh planet. The keys to why this tale is so good are that the glimpses into the political-military system of the empire seem plausible and the cast whether they are humans, other humanoids, or even a different species appear genuine. Fans of exciting survivor tales on adverse planets will appreciate taking the ride with Beau to SCARAB-4.

The Mayan Glyph
Larry Baxter
Amber Quill
ISBN: 1592799167 $17.00

Near Uxmal, Mexico, a University of Texas archeological research team finds a Mayan ruin, but when they return home, every member is ailing and soon begins dying. The disease spreads to the hospital staff. CDC enters the fray seeking a panacea while more people die. The airborne virus that eradicated most of the populace of the Mayan Empire in the latter half of the ninth century has returned. However, what was a relatively localized pandemic is much more dangerous to humanity, as modern transportation provides this virus with easy access way beyond Austin. The United States government leadership discus how to contain the pathogen, but unless a cure is quickly found, the only response is to draw a line above Texas and isolate everyone to the south with full military at the containment front. Millions will be condemned to a horrible death. Dr. Spender of CDC discusses the disease on a video conference with Boston based Dr. Robert Asher. Soon Asher learns that the starting point of the spreading epidemic was a research team in the Mexican jungle. Asher, accompanied by Mayan scholar Teresa Welles, visits the epicenter hoping to learn how some Mayans survived. Concurrently, the virus has spread to Mexico. This exciting thriller provides an intriguing spin to the end days of the Mayan Empire that alone hook readers to learn more about what happened. Coupled with the twenty-first century epidemic, fans will take immense delight with both subplots that interconnect through the virus. The final "twist" involving the Lincoln Room is a terrific low key closing to a powerful action-packed tale that is a one sitting read.

Who's Afraid of the Big Wolf
Marianne LaCroix
Amber Quill
ISBN: 1592798462 $14.00

In Faylin, Roberta Redford caught the notorious womanizer Wolfman Jack Horner eating her forty something grandpa. Jack insists he was tonguing her as part of sex between consenting adults, but the embarrassed grandma and her granddaughter claim he tried to kill her. Jack's former lover Jill, who has an ax to grind with him, defends him. The trial goes badly as the females claim there were screams of terror while Jack insists they were screams of passion. Before he can be sentenced, the three piggy Bacon Brothers give Jack magic beans that enable him to break out of jail. Jack climbs the beanstalk through the clouds until he reaches the kingdom of giant King Titus. Jack meets the shapeshifting Margaret, who loves Titus. However, Titus desires Sugar Plum Fairy, Princess Shaylee, who he holds prisoner. Riding Meg who is in her Pegasus form, Jack meets Titus and falls in love with Shaylee at first sight. He decides to help Peg win her highness so that he can make it with Shaylee. However, love is fickle whether it is on earth, in Fairyland, or in the clouds. WHO'S AFRAID OF THE BIG BAD WOLF is a magnificent, jocular and satirical adult fairy tale that hooks the audience the moment that Jack ironically finds himself in female trouble until the final confrontation between the four wannabe lovers. The stupendous story line goofs at adult fairy tales, but does so in an affectionate tongue out of cheek manner. A fabulous second shorter tale "The Snowmaiden" is a fine romantic tale starring two lovers plus Father Frost and the Russian tundra. Marianne LaCroix entertains the troops with this one-sitting two-tale book.

Kissing the Bride
Sara Bennett
Avon
ISBN: 0060584335 $5.99, 384 pp.

In 1075 England, Widow Lady Jenova asks her best friend, King William's confident Lord Henry to visit her at remote Gunlinghorn. William drops everything to travel the four days in wintry conditions to see Jenova to learn what she needs form him. There, she shocks him when she tells him that she is considering marriage after mourning the loss of her spouse for the last two years. Her chosen one is neighbor Alfric Baldessare, who would bow to her wishes and wants to know what he thinks especially since her potential groom's father demands that he be named estate guardian in the event of his son's death. Henry knows that the elder Baldessare hates him over a regal land decision so he has doubts about the match. While riding, a sudden snowstorm sends Jenova and Henry seeking shelter. When they find refuge, they hold each other tight for some warmth, but soon make love to the shock of them both. Jenova realizes that she is in love again though has doubts after her first husband's betrayal and Henry hides his feelings. However, the elder Baldessare plays "matchmaker" when he abducts her five-year-old son to force her hand. KISSING THE BRIDE is an engaging Conqueror romance starring delightful protagonists and wonderful secondary players to include a romance between the villain's daughter and Henry's top aid. The villain is so crazy that he seems like a caricature, but then again his actions force the lead couple to confess their inner feelings. Sara Bennett provides a fine historical that fans of the William era will treasure.

When He Was Wicked
Julia Quinn
Avon
ISBN: 0060531231 $6.99, 384 pp.

In 1818, the first time ever Michael "The Merry Rake" Stirling saw Francesca Bridgerton he knows he is in love although he never experienced that feeling before. However, he can not act on his emotion because Francesca is to wed his best friend, his cousin John in less than two days. Michael ironically thinks that he now has two new feelings: love and for the first time envy. Ironically, he never coveted the earldom or the wealth of the man he considers his "brother". Two years later, Michael hides his love for Francesca from her and his cousin. John complains of headache and soon afterward he, not quite thirty and in seemingly perfect health, is dead. At twenty-two, Francesca is a widow and Michael is the earl. He still hides his feelings while they mourn their loss until one innocent night he offers simple solace that turns into heated lovemaking. The aftermath is that both feel guilty as if they let down John. As they evade one another so as not to explore their feelings, Francesca begins to wonder if John arranged the whole thing as a heavenly matchmaker. Title aside as no one is "wicked" in a nasty sense; fans will appreciate this wonderful Regency romance starring a loving relationship triangle between three wonderful protagonists. John was a nice respected person loved by his wife and his cousin so that his memory serves as a ghostly barrier to Michael and Francesca following up on their feelings. The two illnesses that John and Michael respectfully suffered from provide a feel for the era as Julia Quinn uses that to anchor her sixth fabulous Bridgerton book.

One Wicked Night
Sari Robins
Avon
ISBN: 0060575344 $5.99, 384 pp.

In 1810, Lillian Kane shocks the Ton when she refuses to marry Marques Dillon Mayborn, but instead shows HER SCANDALOUS INTENTIONS by becoming his mistress. Lillian likes Dillon, but does not love him. The mistress is a sham to fool her odious stepfather Cornelius who wants Lillian to marry one of his chosen losers so he can control her trust fund that she inherits when she turns twenty-four. In 1811, a desperate Cornelius gains an advantage when the distraught brother of Dillon, Russell, talks with him. They arrange a plot to get Dillon away from Lillian so that her stepfather can abduct her. Russell thinks that his ally wants him to wed his stepdaughter, but Cornelius has other plans. Meanwhile, the Solicitor General Dagwood arrests Dillon charging him with the murder of Lady Langham. Knowing he is innocent, Lillian turns to Enquiry Agent Nicholas Redford to prove her contention. As he works the case for his client, Nicholas realizes that she is the target of an odious scheme even as they fall in love. ONE WICKED NIGHT is an engaging Regency romantic suspense that grips readers once they understand the motives of key players. The story line moves rather quickly from the time Dillon goes to Newgate until the final confrontation. Though Cornelius is as odious as they come, fans will appreciate Dillon's sacrifice, an enlightened Lady, and the courage of the lead couple that all come together in a fabulous tale.

A Hoe Lot of Trouble
Heather Webber
Avon
ISBN: 0060723475 $6.50, 256 pp.

Nina Collette Quinn thought she had the perfect life doing the work she loved and being married to the man, she thought was her soulmate. One day while washing Kevin's boxers she notices lipstick on them; she confronts her husband, who confesses that he is cheating on her. She kicks him out but her stepson Riley remains behind with her. Her landscaping business, Taken by Surprise, is booming, but someone is stealing her equipment and with three ex-cons on her payroll, she has many suspects to choose from. Her oldest friend Bridget finally gets pregnant and Nina is delighted though she becomes worried when she learns that her friend's father-in-law was murdered even though the police think he died of natural causes. Nina volunteers to help find the killer but while investigating, she almost is killed by one of the suspects. A short while later one of Nina's suspects is killed and her fingerprints, which she failed to wipe off, lead the police to her as the number one suspect. Heather Webber's debut mystery is fascinating as the heroine copes with a divorce, a recalcitrant stepson who is part of a school gang, a business that is losing valuable equipment, and the death of a man who was her mentor. Nina copes with all these problems admirably and investigates the two murders although it means putting herself in danger. Readers will admire Nina and eagerly await the next mystery starring this intrepid champion.

Death by Deep Dish Pie
Sharon Short
Avon
ISBN: 0060537973 $6.50, 272 pp.

The small Ohio town of Paradise is home to Josie Toadfern, owner of Toadfern's Laundromat and an expert in removing stains. Paradise is a small town where the leading family, the Breitenstraters own the town's main business the Breitenstrater Pie Factory. Josie is looking forward to the annual pie-eating contest but the day is marred when Alan Breitenstrates dies after eating a pie that was originally meant for his brother Cletus. Cletus never showed up for the event even though he attended it every year for decades. Josie, who was watching the scenario, casually, asks her boyfriend and her best friend to take the pies and bring them back to the Laundromat while she distracts the police and a security guard. Though the authorities think the victim died of a heart attack, Josie wants to get the pies tested to see if they contained poison. When a ferret eats a piece of one of the pies and falls into a coma, Josie is sure that at least one of the pies is poisoned. She intends to find out who poisoned the pie thinking that information will lead her to a killer. Shannon Short's second Toadfern mystery is very delightful and a real puzzler because no one is above suspicion in this charming cozy. The cast of characters are totally charming and quirky, the type of people one would want for a next-door neighbor. DEATH OF A DEER DISH PIE is an upbeat who-done-it that will have readers laughing at some of the actors of the main characters, including the protagonist.

Temporary Insanity
Leslie Carroll
Avon
ISBN: 0060563370 $13.95, 322 pp.

Thirty-something Alice Finnegan pays the rent doing odious temporary office jobs for nasty bosses while hoofing the mean streets of Broadway seeking acting gigs. Her nonagenarian grandmother, a long ago retired showgirl, lives with Alice and encourages the dream. Besides her beloved grandma, Alice finds solace from being an out of work actress with her perfuming pals Izzy and Dorian. The Three Musketeers are there for each other. The support of these two and her granny keeps her going when office dating turns out wrong and her daytime bosses assign her the handling of trash projects. As directors tell her what they want her to fix about herself that is when they don't want to taste the goods personally, Alice, in spite of all that negativity, expects to one day be the toast of the city with her musketeers at her side. This is a fun chick lit tale starring a delightful protagonist who with the help of her friends takes blows, but keeps on trying. Alice is a wonderful protagonist; many readers will root for her to turn Broadway into her wonderland especially when they watch the invasion of the permanent crowd on the residents of temp world. Deeper than the amusing REALITY CHECK and MISS MATCH, TEMPORARY INSANITY is a solid look at someone trying to make it to the majors, but must eat first.

An Invitation to Seduction
Lorraine Heath
Avon
ISBN: 0060529466 $5.99, 384 pp.

In 1881 Kitty Robertson is awed by "Poseidon" swimming off the Cornish coast. However her desire makes her feel guilty as she detests any notion that she might be promiscuous like her biological mother. It is her adopted parents who are her role models. Duke Richard Stanbury sees Kitty and decides he wants her as his mistress. However, he is shocked to learn that she is engaged to marry his best friend Farthingham, who he knows will never make a proper mate for the visiting American. As Richard pursues Kitty, they fall in love, but her loyalty remains with her fiance. That remains an obstacle though Richard knows Farthingham's secret that he swore to keep even after Farthingham apparently dies and her beloved is accused of murder. This entertaining Victorian romance is a delightful character driven tale though the mystery of Farthingham adds intriguing suspense. Kitty is a wonderful protagonist struggling with her growing attraction to Richard that feels wrong yet right vs. her long term friendship and caring for Farthingham. Richard also has his demons to slay as he detests the frivolous Americans who barter cash for a title. The support cast augments a fine novel that has a delightful twist.

The Sweetest Sin
Mary Reed McCall
Avon
ISBN: 0060098120 $5.99, 384 pp.

In 1545 in the Scottish Highlands, Duncan MacRae is betrayed by his brother Colin and Morgana MacDonnal at his wedding ceremony. The MacDonnals kill many of the MacRaes including Duncan's bride, steal the magical amulet Ealach, and sell Duncan to the English, who imprison him in the Tower. Thirteen years later, Duncan returns to Scotland following Queen Elizabeth freeing the Scottish prisoners. He and his clan raid MacDonnal to take back the Ealach as well as to avenge what happened to him and his people. However, both Colin and Morgana were reported dead while in exile and her brother Robert offers a deal to end the feuds. He offers his other sister Aieleana as Duncan's wife in exchange for allowing his other brother to live. Duncan accepts Aieleana as his leman until he begins to fall in love with the witch who has safely hidden the Ealach. THE SWEETEST SIN is exciting historical romance with a touch of fantasy to spice the plot. Duncan admires Aieleana for her courage within hostile environs while she learns of the atrocities committed by her family towards the MacRae clan. The story line grips the audience from the moment that Duncan realizes what happened to his beloved as they stood at the altar until the final neat twist places his new beloved in jeopardy by his enemies. This Scottish historical is a terrific tale that sub-genre fans will enjoy.

Love: Undercover
Hailey North
Avon
ISBN: 0060582308 $5.99, 384 pp.

In Doolittle, Arkansas, librarian Jenifer Wright raises her twins by herself as the father dropped her the moment she mentioned pregnancy. However, she currently feels a bit lonely though surrounded by the love of her extended family because her darlings Autumn and Adam are away on college scholarships. FBI undercover agent Eric Hamilton arrives at the library allegedly seeking information for his Virginia based investment firm. In fact Eric is trying to find the connection between Jenifer and two money laundering thugs as he has a photo of the trio together. As he meets her family and gets to know Jenifer better, Eric falls in love with her and is willing to risk his life if necessary to keep her safe. Jenifer, who has not needed a man for years, reciprocates wondering if it might be empty nest syndrome. This is engaging romantic suspense with the emphasis on the former as the lead couple falls in love under the spot light and encouragement of her family. The story line contains neat tidbits to enhance the flavor for instance; Autumn has a track scholarship while Adam is on an academic scholarship. Tiny gems like that augment a fabulous tale even if the intrigue arrives late.

Dinner for Two
Mike Gayle
Downtown
ISBN: 0743477669 $13.00, 352 pp.

In London, thirty-one years old Dave Harding is a music journalist for Louder magazine, a publication that boasts that its audience is "people who live for music" while his beloved wife Izzy works at Femme Magazine. He likes his work there so is a bit taken back when the magazine folds. Through a friend Jenny, Izzy gets Dave a job as an agony aunt at Teen Scene. Dave provides relationship and other advice to mostly adolescent girls. Leery when he first started because he took himself seriously as a music critic, Dave soon realizes he is enjoying the advice column. However, as Izzy recovers from a miscarriage, Dave believes his biological clock is running down and needs a baby to feel fulfilled. Everything changes when thirteen-year-old Nicola sends him a letter at teen Scene insisting that he is not her agony uncle, but her biological father. He quickly believes she is right, but agonizes how to tell Izzy still healing from her miscarriage as he is terrified by how the woman who he loves with all his heart will react. This lighthearted relationship drama stars a sensitive male who loves his wife so much that everyone knows it. Dave's need not to hurt the already battered Izzy actually leads to mistrust and doubt as his good intentions towards his spouse and his newly discovered teenage child backfires until the ladies come to the rescue. Mike Gayle furbishes a fine tale starring characters readers will cherish especially fumbling nurturing and loving Dave.

The Dead Father's Guide to Sex and Marriage
John Scott Shepherd
Downtown
ISBN: 0743466268 $13.00

Incumbent Cleveland Mayor Joseph Way Sr. is battling challenger Lester Ratcovic in a dirty campaign. Joseph's son Assistant DA Joe Jr. is a popular local figure for having been a former college football star and being influential in bringing the return of professional football to the city. Sr. constantly reminds the Dog Pound of his son's sports accomplishments. The Way approach to politics shared by both men is self-righteousness in public, but playing dirty when they can get away with it. The break occurs when teenager Jenni Sanchez tells Jr. that Ratcovic sexually harassed her. Jr. gets her to go public without involving the Ways and sinking the enemy's campaign. Not long afterward, someone beats the girl to death. Joe does not look back with any remorse as she served her purpose until he learns that his role model Sr. has had a longtime affair having caught his dad in the act. The next day Joseph Sr. dies. As he works on the eulogy, Joe Jr. knows the statue has fallen from the pedestal and ponders if ignorance is truly bliss. John Scoot Shepherd leaves it to the reader to decide how to respond whether to know or not to know is the question. Neither Joe is a likable character and though Jr. undergoes a values cleansing; still the audience will want both to receive their comeuppance. Though very philosophical and at times deep, the tale lacks action as the audience follows the mental war going on inside Jr. who if he wants to go from heir apparent to the throne will need to conceal his father's sins.

Poor Mrs. Rigsby
Kathy Herman
Multnomah
ISBN: 1590523148 $12.99, 320 pp.

Angry with Sam since he divorced her after three decades of marriage to move in with a younger chick, leaving her with a run down house and two teens, Certified Nurse Assistant Sally Cox also hates her work at the Walnut Hills Nursing Center. She detests the patients and the staff though she likes nonagenarian dementia victim Elsie Rigsby even when the elderly woman loses her touch with reality. During a seemingly lucid moment, Mrs. Rigsby informs Sally that she has stashed away from her avaricious family a fraudulent fortune. She wants Sally to distribute the money to worthy people in need. Sally promises to do so, but the temptation to use the money to get out of her own debt is overwhelming. Yet her conscience tells her to do the good deed and trust that God will take care of her woes though with the setbacks in her personal life, Sally has lost faith. Which path will she take especially when a snake offers her the easy road? Although some readers will believe that the POOR MRS. RIGSBY is a naive look at money, Kathy Herman provides a deep character study that focuses on faith and greed. The story line follows Sally as she feels like a failed female Job with a temptation that could solve much of her woes. Ms. Herman makes a case in an age of fiscal abuse and irresponsibility by those in power in Wall St and DC that money is not the root of evil; spinning the NRA contention that "guns don't kill, people kill", people's attitude turns money into a weapon of destruction.

My Forever Love
Marsha Canham
Signet
ISBN: 0451211286 $6.99, 368 pp.

When Ciaran Tamberlane joined the Crusaders, he believed that he was doing something noble for God. He lost his faith in King Richard the Lionhearted when the royal ordered the mass genocide of Saracen prisoners. Still he fought on because the thought he was on God's side until he watched a brother knight about to kill an injured woman and her baby. His faith in God's goodness died that day. He now lives on his English estate with no ties to the aristocracy or the church, caring for the peasants who toil on his land. Knights burn down a nearby village slaughtering without regard. Ciaran and his squire kill the marauders. He takes an injured woman, who wants to die, to his castle. As Amaranth de Langois heals, she feels guilty that she caused the massacre by hiding in the village from her abusive spouse. Her husband demands that Tamberlane return his wife to him, but instead Ciaran vows to protect Amie even if the King is on the side of the spouse. As they wait for the confrontation, Ciaran and Amie fall in love, but defying duty may lead to the executioner's sword for him and his beloved. This exciting medieval romance paints quite a different timely perspective of the Crusades, as atrocities in the name of God are part of the war. The action packed story line is character driven; readers will cherish the courageous Ciaran who refuses to go along even when God and King are invoked if he feels it is wrong. Sub-genre fans will appreciate this delightful historical tale starring two honorable individuals.

In a Wild Wood
Sasha Lord
Signet
ISBN: 0451210298 $6.99, 384 pp.

At a time he should feel euphoric for the birth of his heir, the embittered Earl feels anger at his wife because he believes she cheated on him though she denies his accusations. Worse, he learns that twins are born and that the midwife failed to identify which child came first. He informs his spouse that he will raise one child and she the other. The stronger lad will inherit the estate. Years later, Xanthier has the inside path to the inheritance because his father raised him while Brogan was in exile with his mother. Although they were friends as lads without their parents' awareness, the siblings are now rivals. Xanthier's men tie up Brogan in the woods warning him to leave or die. Matalia McTaver sees Brogan and decides he is the answer to two questions: how to avoid marriage and what sex is all about. She teases and arouses her prisoner until he escapes. They share fleshly pleasures, but her father Lord Ronin catches them and forces Matalia and Brogan to marry. They fall in love as the brotherly rivalry, encouraged by Xanthier's avariciouse wife, heats up and threatens both their lives. This exciting medieval romance is an intriguing historical relationship drama as the story line focuses on a dysfunctional family. The cleverly developed support cast either enhances the understanding of the two prime couples or moves forward the plot. Although Matalia is out character by keeping Brogan tied up and explanation for why the Earl thought he was cuckold is not clear enough, fans will appreciate this deep look at medieval relationships, several of which are failing.

Bait and Switch
Larry Brooks
Signet
ISBN: 0451212479 $7.99, 400 pp.

Los Angeles based Wolfgang

Cynthia Penn's Bookshelf	Donovan's Bookshelf	Kaveny's Bookshelf
Klausner's Bookshelf	Laurel's Bookshelf	Shelley's Bookshelf
Shirley's Bookshelf