Loose Change 2001
Louis McKee
Marsh River Press
M233 Marsh Road, Marshfield, WI 54449
No ISBN, $4 plus S&H
Karla Huston
Reviewer
Philadelphia's Louis McKee's poems slip into your ear so easily, so quietly that you don't realize
their
full impact until you're finished and left shivering with a sense of loss, wondering what happened.
Many of them deal with failed love, doomed love, the narrator a man who--like you--has been left
to
wonder what has happened. Yet in these poems, there is always hope that the next "Plane to La
Paz"
will bring fulfillment of many wishes, carry the narrator-and reader--off to new dreams, balance
you
both somehow in fresh expectation.
McKee's language is simple; his word choice is careful, but never cautious. He is a man in love
with
language, a man whose poems love many women, sometimes just because they are women. He
begins with "Ancient History," a poem about the beginning of language and sexual discovery. He
ends with "Lake Effect," a poem in which the narrator finds that what he needs is behind him,
another loss of sorts but a homecoming as well. What unravels between are twenty-one poems,
stunning in their imagery, their clarity.
Some poems exult in love and lust, both gratifying and unexpected. In one the poet imagines a
woman walking bare-assed across a Jersey beach, he too stupefied by the sight or her to even
write
haiku. In another the poet falls in love with a woman for her politics, the pronunciation of her
hard
"g-s". In a third, the poet hopes that the husband of the object of his desire takes care:
"let him tend, then, to his tasks/ for both, for all our sakes."
Some poems shudder with loneliness and loss. In the title poem, "Loose Change," the narrator
pays
fifty cents for poems written by other poets-a way to buy time before he has to go back to his
troubles. What he gets, he fingers like coins in his pocket, something to carry him away, act as a
talisman against pain. Many of these poem start in simple images, but loss fills them, a kind of
wistful regret, maybe. Still they often end well, the possibility of the unexpected trembling, like a
kiss that still burns in the morning. In the poem "Revision," the only thing that matters anymore is
the memory:
"The moon will tell you that it is a short story words were said that couldn't be taken back,
couldn't
be changed. The differences between what two people thought and what was said is a wildfire;
you
can see it burning like moonlight on a peaceful river, the white moon given to easy shadows."
The sexual nature of these poems is neither shy nor self-conscious. In "The Nurturing" the poet
shows how he-with the blessings of his best friend-samples the breast milk of his friend's wife.
This
simple act creates a rebirth for the narrator. "So it was mindless really, when/I pulled away, a
different man now,/coming through a different childhood. ." In the poem "The Flower Show," the
poet teases the reader with sweet flower images juxtaposed against the undressing his lady for
love-making--those "shy petals, shy nipples, soft hearts." All it takes is five couplets to make her
fall
in love.
McKee is a writer of tremendous gifts. Each poem pays tribute to words, his manipulation of
image
and a sense of touch. McKee's words distill experience, no matter how tender, how troubling. The
poems find their centers in language and in memory. Each poem is constructed out of what the
poet
knows, the substance of his experience-that and the emotional context of that experience. In spite
of
the longing, the loss, these poems somehow make sense.
The Million Dollar Mermaid: An Autobiography
Esther Williams with Digby Diehl
Simon & Schuster
1230 Avenue of the Americas, 14th fl., New York, NY 10020
0684852845 $26.00 1-800-223-2336
Jim Sullivan
Reviewer
This movie star-crossed life story of Esther Williams goes from her birth on August 8, 1922 up to
the present day and her fourth and most recent husband. She had qualified with her outstanding
swimming ability for the 1940 Olympics. Sadly, that world competition was canceled because of
World War II. Even so, in the summer of that year, she became the swimming star of Billy Rose's
Acquacade Show at the San Francisco Exposition. There she performed feats in the water with
Johnny Weissmuller.
In the Acquacade, Esther's swimming talent was noticed and Hollywood soon came calling.
Despite
many attempts by studio moguls, including Louis B. Mayer, to get her on their 'casting couch,' she
managed to zig-zag her way safely around it. Still, she would manage to eventually get star billing
at
MGM Studios in her swimming films. Among them were Neptune's Daughter, Dangerous When
Wet, and Million Dollar Mermaid. They made the studio lots of money for which she's admired
and
honored.
Her private life has less in it to revere. Specifically, her choice in husbands was the pits,
particularly
her third mate, Fernando Lamas. If Billy Crystal, the comedian, read this bio, he might remark
about
Fernando, "You don't look so mahvelous!" For Lamas, she gave up her career. In exchange, he
agreed not to fool around with other women.
He would, of course, demand the show business limelight. His narcissism was deplorable but
understandable. Esther's subservience, on the other hand, isn't even fathomable. Why would she
accept Lamas' dictum, for instance, that her children couldn't even live in the same home with
their
mother? And why did she go along with that for 22 years?
Esther's attachment to Lamas, and all that she put up with from him right through to his death, is
astounding. She refers to that relationship of over two decades as being 'tethered' to Fernando.
Being chained mind, body, and spirit to Lamas would be a more accurate description. And what
makes this even more unbelievable is that before those two got together, Esther was perhaps the
most self-assured, rational, and assertive female star in all of Hollywood.
After reading about Esther's love affair and marriage to Lamas, this reviewer was reminded of
lesser
known women who also made great sacrifices for their men. That young mother in the Carolinas
who sat her own kids in the back seat of her car, put it in gear, and let it drive into a lake where
her
children drowned comes to mind. And she'd done that allegedly because her boyfriend at the time
said he didn't want her if she had kids. The same unreasoning may exist between women and their
pimps. The female loves her man so much that she's willing to turn tricks as a prostitute to earn
him
money. Esther, naturally, didn't go that far. But they would all seem to be of the same
mindset.
"Fernando died on Friday, October 8," [1982] she writes. "He had family with him always; he was
never alone. To the very end, I honored the commitment I'd made to him so long ago in Cypress
Gardens to set aside Esther Williams and take care of him like the mother he'd lost when he was
four. It wasn't always easy, but I kept my promise until his final death."
A courageously revealing, well written autobiography filled with juicy tidbits about other movie
stars
too, like Gene Kelley, Victor Mature, Jeff Chandler, Joan Crawford, Bette Davis, Lana Turner,
and
more. Highly recommended.
A New Attitude
Charlotte Hughes
Mira Books
ISBN #1551668637, $TBA, http://www.divorcedoc.com
David John Berndt, Ph.D.
Reviewer
This comic romance is an uplifting book that demonstrates what you can do after you feel you've
lost everything, and need to start over. Ms. Hughes message is both powerful and funny, and her
characters are quite memorable. Her secondary characters are full of southern charm and wit. Ms.
Hughes has won several awards. Her suspense novels for Avon won her two Maggie awards, and
another nomination. She is clearly a versatile writer, and her turn to comedy is welcome. Marilee
Abernathy is a tad upset when her minister husband, Grady, leaves her for the town floozy. To
make
it worse her 15 year-old son goes with him to the Pleasure Palace, blaming his mother for the
breakup, and for being overprotective. Marilee tries to commit suicide, with tragic-comic results.
Sam Brewer, whose come home to stay with his mother who is sick, comes to Marilee's rescue.
Marilee knew Sam from high school and he had a reputation with the ladies and is handsome and
charming and full of himself. Sam always had an eye for Marilee but then she married Grady.
Marilee's fun and frisky friends rally around her, and help her get her new attitude, and a new life.
It
isn't an easy thing to do but Marilee finds out she can do a lot more than she thought she could.
She
can play the piano and sing, so gets a job at a nightclub part time, and a second job at a friend's
funeral home. Some hilarious situations arise that will surely leave you laughing. Others are quite
touching. Sam and Marilee explore ambivalently their mutual attraction and friendship. Marilee's
efforts to win back her son are realistic and heartwarming. A New Attitude is an excellent read,
full
of humor and southern charm.
Cindy's Bookshelf
The Crooked Birdcage
Lynda Lee Roux
Domhan Books
9511 Shore Road, Suite 614, Brooklyn, NY 11209
ISBN 1583459391, hardcover $19.95, paperback $13.95, eBook $7.00, 182 pages
Security expert Jon Nicolson's contradictions leave Samantha Burnes baffled. He seems at once
attracted and repelled by her, and Samantha would like to know why. Certainly their unfortunate
introduction didn't go well, but she's learned to appreciate noisy children and ragged dogs. Since
Jon
entered her carefully controlled life, it seems to have taken a dive into chaos. Jon has a secret with
the power to destroy his budding relationship with Samantha. Even as he knows he should
withdraw, he can't seem to resist the allure of this feisty lady. As they approach the brink of
destruction, their love shimmers and sparkles with newness and beauty. But with criminal forces
coming between them, even love may have difficulty finding the way. As an American, I get big
kick
out the setting for The Crooked Bird Cage. Planting tulips that bloom in September, language
choices, and attitudes that vary so drastically from my ordinary expectations make for an
interesting
read. While the plot would have benefited from more fleshing out, the interplay between the
characters was terrific. Interfering neighbors, well meaning parents and charming children
combine
with a strong hero and heroine to create a entertaining read. The Crooked Bird Cage comes
recommended.
Faith, Love, And Overcoming My Battle With Addiction
Dr. Dale
American Book Publishing
325 East 2400 South, Salt Lake City, Utah 84115
ISBN 1930586515, $18.00, Paperback, 228 pages
A must read - Very highly recommended
Dr. Dale is an osteopathic physician and assistant professor of family medicine at the Ohio
University College of Osteopathic Medicine. He is the father of four daughters and the husband of
a
loving woman. He is also an addict and alcoholic. This is his story. Through a childhood bound by
extreme poverty and laced with abuse through his college years, Dr. Dale explores the events and
the reactions that led to his decision to turn to chemicals. He doesn't hide behind his dysfunctional
family, but he does explore his relationships with family members and friends. Obsession and
compulsion, ego and self-destruction each take a turn in the development of his disease. From
living
on the streets to living out of a van, Dr. Dale's odyssey culminates in medical school. He takes
seven
years to complete what most medical students do in four, while struggling to fulfill his
responsibilities to a wife and children. Yet rather than gaining the success his graduation should
have
given him, Dr. Dale squares off with his addiction. Scripts, sample drugs from the cabinet,
happenstance and coincidence nurtured his disease. As denial gives way to desperation, he finally
seeks the treatment he needs. If you've ever attended an open meeting for AA, you might have
heard
a speaker share "how it was, what happened, what it's like now." That's exactly what Dr. Dale
presents in Faith, Love And Overcoming My Battle With Addiction. Dr. Dale's words leap off the
page with a self-honesty that can't help but touch the reader's heart. Having attending many
twelve-step meetings, I felt as if I had stepped back into one while reading Dr. Dale's story. While
his tale is far from unique, it is a story many addicts and alcoholics will identify with. Very highly
recommended.
The Slam Club: How To Stop Miserable People From Making You Miserable
Michelle Beaudry
The Wellness Institute and Selfhelpbooks.com
c/o Wellness Institute, Inc.
Heritage Office Park, 1007 Whitney Ave., Gretna, LA 70056
ISBN 1587410818, $TBA, 167 pp., Self-Help, July 2001
Something everyone should read -- Very highly recommended
Malcontents and hostile gossipers thrive in our society, gathering to compulsively denounce other
people, places or things. These people are members of the Slam Club, according to author
Michelle
Beaudry, who one day realized she was a card carrying member of the club. She decided to
change:
"I wanted contentious people out of my life without creating more contention." Beaudry observes
that healthy people want facts; slammers prefer stories. Slammers are easy to identify: They are
always right. They do not accept nor give apologies. They are competitive in every area of their
lives. Slammers also pick at their targets behind their backs. Nothing is ever their fault and blame
is
their strongest tool. To be hurt by a Slammer, however, one must also be a Slammer. Like
voodoo,
it only works if you believe. Beaudry also demonstrates how it possible to be around members of
the
Slam Club with participating yourself. Further, she shows how Slammers are not necessarily
abusers.
An Abuser's actions directly affect the physical or psychological well-being of the victim.
Slammers
engage in hateful, hurtful small talk. Although Slamming may be subtler than abuse, it still affects
the
quality of work or home and tasks left unfinished. And, like abuse, Slamming hurts people.
Michelle
Beaudry brings tremendous self-honesty, energy and humor to her nonfiction The Slam Club.
Anecdotes from her experience with Slamming bring life to this self-help book, lending it her
comic
voice, yet allowing the truth of her statements to ring through. Readers will quickly find
themselves
recognizing the slamming that frequently occurs in their presence in the guise of ordinary
conversation. Readers who are slammers themselves will easily come to realize the damaging
effect
their behavior has on others. A wonderfully written, concisely presented tool that everyone should
read, The Slam Club comes very highly recommended.
Sweet Success
Susan Mallery
Pocket Books
1230 Avenue of the Americas, 9th Floor, New York, NY 10020-1586
ISBN 0743405951, $TBA, Mass Market Paperback, 336 pages
Be ready to approach chocolate with reverence and awe - Very highly recommended
Contemporary
Romance.
At thirty, all that Allison Thomas can claim is a gourmet chocolate shop and a cat, even if she is a
great rescuer of people and pets. Further, she's not sure which is worse, her mother's frequent
desire
for grandchildren speech or the makeover speech. When the new handyman Matt Baker shows up
to
install shelves in her shop, he's not terribly amused by either Allison or her mother. Then he learns
that Ali's food is more than sustenance, it's an experience. A single truffle leads to his downfall as
Matt sees Ali handling challenges the same way she handles chocolate-delicately but with
command.
Ali tells Matt that he doesn't eat her food, doesn't talk much, and doesn't play well with others.
When she offers him food twice in one day, Matt simply pegs her for a meddler. But then, Matt's
a
mass of contradictions. Well spoken and well educated, Matt's something of a mystery. He
carefully
keeps to himself; worried Ali might learn his secrets. Despite that fact that he doesn't want
rescuing,
Matt finds himself falling into a comfortable routine as he becomes part of Ali's small town. Too
bad
he believes that there's no way to make peace with what he's done. Author Susan Mallery brings
her
customary verve to Sweet Success. She sweetly captures the contradictions of living in a
delightful
microcosm of life: small town mentality, cosmopolitan troubles, and a cast of characters straight
from everyone's backyard. In addition to zany primary characters, the secondary characters are a
riot, especially the flawless, perfectly coifed mother who has a rather large pig as pet - a pig that
likes a treat with her morning coffee. The kind of mother, that is, that flat out declares to Matt,
"You're not happy material," after confiding secrets of her love life from thirty years before. Rick,
Ali's gay brother is also great for a load of laughs and quaint observations. A lovely, light read
guaranteed to bring the satisfaction of really great chocolate, Mallery's latest offering is a Sweet
Success. Very highly recommended.
The Witness
Ginna Gray
Mira Books
225 Duncan Mill Road, Don Mills, Ontario, Canada M3B 3K9
ISBN 1551668327, $TBA, Mass Market Paperback, 377 pages
When Carlo Giovessi executes a man for stealing drugs from him, a witness unwittingly puts her
life
on the line. Pianist Lauren Brownly hears her own death ordered when mob boss Carlo realizes
she
hasn't left the nightclub. She reports the killing to the Denver PD believes she's Carlo's mistress.
Now the FBI steps into the case, planning to keep Lauren safe until she can testify. Agent Sam
Grey
Wolf Rowlins is assigned to the case. Sam sets aside his previous investigation into an insider
turned
rogue to assume care of Lauren. The Bureau has been investigating Carlo for years, but every
time
they got close, something went wrong from tapered evidence to dead witnesses. Extreme
coincidence suggests the truth to lie with a corrupt agent. When a plane crash-lands Sam and
Lauren
miles from civilization and obviously pursued by FBI agents gone bad, they must hike through
knee-deep snow and blizzard conditions to reach safety. As they learn to rely upon and trust one
another, the ember of attraction lead to a fiery passion even the deepest snows can't drown. Sam's
antagonism and aloofness toward Lauren, unfairly earned, can initially alienate the reader, but the
feelings his ill humor conceal will sway even the hardest of hearts in The Witness. This richly
textured plot keeps the pages turning quickly, as Lauren and Sam's traitorous emotions and
survival
skills keep them alive. The vividly realized characterizations, including fascinating secondary
characterizations, give The Witness a fascinating depth. Further, Lauren's path to learning
independence as she redefines her immediate past and her immediate future leads to terrific
character
growth. Highly recommended.
Unforgivable
Tina Wainscott
St. Martin's Press
175 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10010
ISBN 0312979088, $6.50, Mass Market Paperback, 368 pages
Secrets and shadows -- Very highly recommended Romantic Suspsense
A man filled with secrets and shadows, "Spooky" Silas Koole has watched Katie Malloy from a
distance for years. Ever since the day she trusted him enough to ask for help, Silas has kept tabs
even as she married another man and established a quiet life in the backwoods with her
veterinarian
husband Ben. When the townsfolk realize that there's a serial killer in their midst, they
immediately
assume that Silas must be guilty. After all, an illegal search links him to many of the killings, and
produced graphic pictures and text that indicate his guilt. Worse, his supernatural ability to
empathetically connect to the illusive killer has him doubting his own innocence. Ben has loved
being Katie's hero from the day when she was nine and brought in a damaged kitten until now.
When
her mother died in a shocking suicide, he'd found the child a place to live and waited for her to
grow
into womanhood. He married her at eighteen, loving the innocence of the woman-child. At
twenty-seven, she finds herself as dependant upon Ben as she had been as a child. But she feels
terribly guilty for not being the woman he needs. Especially when Silas can stir womanly needs
Katie
has never acknowledge, and seems to know about her than she knows about herself. Author Tina
Wainscott exchanges her usual romance for an over the top suspense novel that will keep the
reader
avidly turning the pages. Rich characterization and a fluid plot result in a memorable tale of love
and
murder. Indeed, Unforgivable delivers a graphic, insightful look at the thin line that separates the
good from the evil that lurks within all of us. The truly disturbing context and careful
manipulation
of people and events gives the reader an unexpected and frightening look from behind the eyes of
a
killer whose actions are unforgivable. Wainscott's prose reflects an empathy for each of her
memorable characters that makes Unforgivable a must read! Very highly recommended.
Night Of The Blackbird
Heather Graham
Mira Books
225 Duncan Mill Road, Don Mills, Ontario, Canada M3B 3K9
ISBN 1551668122, $6.99, Mass Market Paperback, 384 pages
Divided loyalties - Very highly recommended Romance
Kelly's Pub, a family-owned establishment in Boston, becomes the center of a family reunion and
possible terrorist plot during a St. Patrick's Day celebration. When her mother calls warning that
her
father's health isn't well, TV producer Moira Kelly changes her plans and brings she show to
Boston.
The plans for the pub and her family provide insight for viewers into the way of the Irish from
recipes to lore. When Moira learns that a certain Belfast politician plans to celebrate the holiday
with
Bostonians, she also decides to invite him to her show. Soon Moira finds herself thrust into
danger
and intrigue, as she learns that "Blackbird" represents more than the name of the band or Kelly
invented beverage, it also seems to be a code word linking pub patrons to political ideologies and
dangerous plots. In addition to professional concerns, Moira also finds her loyalties challenged in
her
private life. She brings her new love, Michael McLean to Boston, despite the fact that her old
flame
Daniel O'Hara is also visiting her family. Torn between stability and passion, Moira struggles with
her common sense and her heart. Worse, she also feels her loyalties challenged by her brother's
frequent mysterious absences, secrets whispered in the darkness, and new revelations about
Danny's
past. Add a killer of prostitutes that seems connected to the conspiracy, as well as her father's best
friend's death, and Moira finds herself in imminent danger. Heather Graham strikes the perfect
balance between romance and suspense in Night Of The Blackbird. While terrorist plots may be a
bit
difficult to read in the wake of the recent US bombing, for those with an appetite for intrigue,
Night
Of The Blackbird will prove quite satisfying. The complexity of plot, richness of historical detail,
and
multitude of suspects keeps the reader enthralled. Further, the heroine struggles with first
generation
Irish-American, including family idiosyncrasies, political entanglements and multiple loyalties,
thereby adding tremendous richness of this nvel. Combined with a beautifully written love story
and
thought provoking philosophical asides, Night Of The Blackbird comes very highly
recommended.
Many Lives, Many Masters
Brian L. Weiss
Fireside Book
1230 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10020
ISBN 0671657860, Paperback, 219 pages
Very highly recommended Reincarnation/Spirituality
Trained in the scientific method, Dr. Brian Weiss graduated from the Yale University School of
Medicine where he also completed his residency in psychiatry. Currently Chairman of Psychiatry
at
the Mount Sinai Medical Center in Miami, Dr. Weiss had always followed the conservative paths
of
his profession; that is, until remarkable patient entered his office and profoundly changed his life
both professionally and privately. Catherine arrived at the Department of Psychiatry seeking relief
from chronic fears and anxieties. Eighteen months of intensive psychotherapy did not eliminate
Catherine's anxiety and panic attacks. Using hypnotherapy to regress Catherine to the beginning
of
early trauma, Dr. Weiss had unexpected results. Catherine spontaneously moved beyond her birth
into this life to account previous lives. Their resulting explorations of Catherine's previous lives
not
only healed her anxiety disorder, but resulted in spiritual lessons for Dr. Weiss. Between the
recounting of various lives, Catherine would pause and wait. In those quite moments while she
would wait for the next lifetime, another voice would come forward. The voice of the Masters,
those who guide souls from one lifetime to another, began speaking to Dr. Weiss, sharing
knowledge, for "by knowledge we approach God." The voice of the Masters, over the following
months, imparted to Dr. Weiss his role as teacher. The result was a complete spiritual
transformation
that eradicated all of his fear of death and dying. Brian L Weiss's Many Lives, Many Masters has
sat
on my shelf for the better part of a year. I went looking this morning for the book I planned to
review today, and couldn't find it. I later realized that the cats knocked it between bed and the
nightstand. On impulse, I picked up this book instead; only a few pages in I realized why. In the
devastating aftermath of this country's grief, finding answers and comfort is difficult, even for
those
far removed from the personal tragedy. Within the Weiss' words lie comfort, an understanding of
he
divine plan and the lessons we come to this planet to learn. Weiss' spiritual awakening touched my
heart profoundly in the wake of the terrorist bombing, as the voices of the Masters remind us, no
tragedy is pointless. Within the event lie important lessons. Very highly recommended.
Girls! Girls! Girls!
Charley Scholl
Charley Scholl Productions
9240 County N, Marshfield, WI 54449
ISBN 0965549801, $8.99, 98 pages
Darkly fascinating -- Highly recommended for Ages 9-12
Three sisters, ages 10, 11, and 12 join their parents for a fantastic cruise to celebrate their
mother's
graduation from college. Ordinary trip preparations include a shopping expedition in which the
oldest daughter praises her mother for allowing her the freedom to grow up when she chooses a
bikini for their planned days in the sun. But the ordinary quickly gives way to extraordinary when
the
oldest two sisters over hear a couple's whispered conversation. The couple are planning a
shipboard
wedding, fleeing the woman's dangerous and demented ex-husband Larry. At the hotel where the
family stays before boarding the ship, the sisters see a mysterious man following the loving
couple,
and quickly deduce him to be the dangerous Larry. When they see him again aboard ship watching
the wedding, conducted by the captain, the girls overhear Larry's threatening mutterings. Soon the
entire ship is danger as a hurricane blows in just as Larry blows up two decks of the ship. The
three
girls wind up in the same boat as the now drunken Larry and an old woman with a heart
condition.
They must be willing to do anything to live to see their parents again. In a modern day Robinson
Crusoe tale for girls, Charley Scholl presents an amazing resourceful and unorthodox tale in Girls,
Girls, Girls. Told from a preteen perspective with a slant toward their amazing capabilities, this
tale
of adventure demonstrates the remarkable abilities of young girls. Not for the weak at heart, this
is a
story of empowerment in the face of severe adversity. Some readers may find the story a bit
improbable or darker than their ordinary taste, but for the strong hearted, this is a book not to be
missed. Highly recommended.
The Feelings And Imagination Of A Barefoot Boy Still Inside My Head!
Richard W. Carlson, Kevin Carlson (Illustrator)
iUniverse.com
5220 S 16th, Ste. 200, Lincoln, NE 68512
ISBN 0595181317, $TBA, 101 pages
Imaginative! Very highly recommended for Ages 9 - 12
Author Richard W. Carlson Jr. Brings echoes of maturity to freshly imaginative short stories and
poetry in The Feelings And Imagination Of Barefoot Boy Still Inside My Head. The sparkling
ingenuous voice of remembered youth sparkles, recapturing the best of childhood and strongest of
memories in a startling original record certain to please young readers. The rhythm and rhyme
keep
the tempo steadily on high, recreating runaway frogs, black eyes, broccoli and walking barefoot
with
equal vividness. Accompanied by simple, yet skillfully drawn illustrations (by the author's younger
brother), this marvelous lark comes highly recommended.
Jeremy Grabowski's Crazy Summer In Stormville!
Richard W. Carlson
iUniverse.com
5220 S 16th, Ste. 200, Lincoln, NE 68512
ISBN 0595173438, $TBA, 120 pages
Fast paced adventure -- Highly recommended for Ages 9 - 12
1978 in Stormville, New York finds Jeremy Grabowski wondering if he's going to survive another
crazy summer. Absolute frustration with his brother and sister leaves Jeremy wishing that he'd
been
born an only child. His mother cautions him to be careful what he wishes for. Worse, now he finds
out that his family might be moving to Arizona. Jeremy doesn't want to move, even if his dad
promises they'll have their own swimming pool. Stormville's a fun place to live, even if a girl likes
him, his brother and sister drive him crazy, and the worst bully ever lives just down the road.
Author
Richard W. Carlson Jr draws from his own childhood experience of living in Stormville, New
York
to create Jeremy Grabowski's Crazy Summer In Stormville! Written from the perspective of a
ten-year-old, this fun tale will be immediately appreciated by that age-range, though the rest of us
may have to remember being ten to "get it." But once you've got it, Carlson has a knack for
sweeping you away in the madcap adventure with extreme enthusiasm, when living for the
moment
was the only way to live. Jeremy's friends and family are vividly realized, with political and
historical
background that will keep adults entertained as well as preteens. Jeremy Grabowski's Crazy
Summer
In Stormville! is highly recommended.
Heaven Sent
Rachel Wilson
Jove/Berkley Publishing Group
375 Hudson Street, Sew York, NY 10014
ISBN 0515131814, $TBA, Mass Market Paperback, 336 pages
A wonderful afternoon's read! Highly recommended Historical Romance
Callie Prophet might be the bane of Aubrey Lockhart's existence, but she is also his daughter
Becky's salvation. When Aubrey looses himself too deeply in his own grief over his beloved wife
to
be emotionally available to his child, it is the town's post mistress who answers the child's letters
addressed to her mother in heaven. And it is the same woman who gives up her job for an
opportunity to become Becky's nanny. While she doesn't meet Aubrey's preconception of a nanny
(they should be gray headed, hard of hearing and matronly), Callie does know how to bring
laughter
back into the child's life. Too bad Aubrey's own life can't be resolved so easily. Now his wife is
dead,
his daughter's in the clutches of a mad nanny, and a huge black cat named Monster is determined
to
wreck havoc upon his home. Callie sometimes believes she's been left on the marriage shelf simply
because she doesn't control her deplorable behavior. Outspoken, bodacious and daring, Callie
doesn't hold her tongue in the face of wrong doing -- be it a child who's neglected by a father or a
society matron bent upon passing along ruinous gossip. Further, it was letters that brought Becky
into her life, and love letters Aubrey wrote to his deceased wife that caused her to fall in love with
him. Too bad it could be letters that also destroy her chance at love before she's truly experienced
it.
If the plot follows convention a bit too predictably, then these remarkable characters become the
breath of fresh air in Heaven Sent by Rachel Wilson. As his overwhelming grief abates, the hero's
ability to laugh and to enjoy his daughter again can't help but touch the reader's heart. Further, the
heroine's irrepressible spirit and determination to help the grieving child provide the perfect
counterbalance to the hero's gloom. The pivot point, the six-year-old child that brings this couple
together, is perfectly captured in both her newfound happiness, and her terror of the horrible
great-aunt who threatens her home. This great-aunt is marvelous villain, as isthe Monster cat that
manages to wreck his own brand of havoc. Indeed, this extraordinary cast of characters results in
a
read that comes highly recommended.
How to Survive Your Bipolar Brain (And Stay Functional)
Bob Bradley
Emerald Publishing
9700 Almeda Geonoa #502, Houston TX 77075
ISBN 1885373430, $TBA, paperback, 147 pages
An excellent resource -- Highly recommended Psychololgy
Bob Bradley doesn't promise a cure for bipolar disorder (also known as manic depression), but he
does promise to share how to become functional. With an illness that deprives the patient of
families,
jobs, friends and sometimes their life, functional is good: "If a manic-depressive can stay out of
the
hospital and functional, that's success." Dispelling myth and heresy from fact, Bradley carefully
details what it feels like to be manic-depressive. With shared incidents from his own experience,
Bradley describes the dark demon of depression as well as the manic highs. His key to
successfully
living with his illness lies with treatment and exercise. Making and loosing several fortunes and
then
declaring bankruptcy led to hospitalization and diagnosis. Self-acceptance, that is, acceptance of
his
illness and his limits, also are key to recovery. While some of the information Bob Bradley
provides
in How To Survive Your Bipolar Brain may seem repetitive, perhaps repetition is the one of the
tools for coping with this illness. Reading the same advice, from several perspectives reinforces
the
importance of remaining on medication, for example. Indeed, Bradley provides insightful, sensible
suggestions for functioning well with bipolar disorder. His tone, while light and self-deprecating,
never belies the seriousness of the message; that is, the message clearly imparts wisdom with the
surety of someone who has lived the hells and heavens of this illness. As the spouse of a man with
bipolar disorder, I found Bradley's text highly informative, and recommend this book to anyone
seeking an understanding of this devastating illness.
Change Of Heart
Jack Allen
Burping Frog Publishing
6654 Harding, Taylor, MI 48180
ISBN 0738867306, $TBA, Paperback, 318 pages
Very highly recommended Fiction
Nothing is ever routine with Navy Intelligence operative Joshua McGowan, who lives by his own
code of honor. His newest partner considered him as passive as an old head of lettuce until the
bullets began flying and Josh did his Bruce Willis imitation. In the flicker of a moment, Josh goes
from lettuce to a bloodthirsty killing machine intent upon his mission. But when the heat of the
moment passes, Josh can't help wondering how he gets into these messes. Josh McGowan began
his
service in a Special Forces outfit, where he interfered with the function of the KGB making an
avowed enemy of Colonel Mironov, the KGB controller for many Soviet operatives Josh
encountered in the field. During the Cold War, Colonel Maronov had been a thorn in the side of
Josh's boss. With the end of the Cold War, enemies become allies as Colonel Mironov promises
the
location of Valeria Konstantinova with the provision Josh is the man to bring her in. Valeria
knows
the location of Dr. Otto Jones, an explosive expert who is aiding the Communist Party in its effort
to
overthrow Russia's new democratic leadership. The CIA freed Valeria from prison and smuggled
to
the Siberian coast. Now Josh must bring her back to the States. Valeria Konstantinova is a serious
threat to the security of the Communist Party. If she were to share what she knows with western
intelligence agencies, the Party would be set back a hundred years. During her short service to the
KGB and directed by Mironov, she slept with more than twenty of the most powerful men in the
Kremlin. A whore for the KGB, she is determined that her service is done, and she wants nothing
more than to slip away with the man she loves. Unfortunately, Mironov plays a dirty game,
planning
to double-cross the United States and use Valeria to resurrect Communist Russia. Novelist Jack
Allen presents the sleuthing world with Change Of Heart. An action packed thriller, Change Of
Heart keeps the heart pounding rapidly and keeps the pages turning swiftly as it moves from the
murky depths of Soviet waer to exotic Tokyo to the heart of the Kremlin. Espionage, betrayal of
friend and country, and power provide strong motivation for this plot-driven spy thriller. Josh is
no
James Bond, with women clutching his elbows and supreme self-confidence. Instead, he's a
refreshingly original hero with attitude, vulnerabilities, and no love life. The Joshua McGowan
series
will continue wit the following upcoming releases: An Innocent Among Them, Widow Of
Calcutta
and The Lennox Conspiracy, as well as Breathe Of The Flesh. Outstanding within its genre,
Change
Of Heart comes very highly recommended.
Let Down Your Hair
Linda Jones
Love Spell/Dorchester Publishing
276 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10001
ISBN 0505524511 $TBA Mass Market Paperback, 368 pages
A heady blend of eroticism and innocence -- Very highly recommended Fairie Tale Romance
It seemed so simple. Roland Connor intended wreck revenge on the woman his enemy holds
dearest.
Daniel had debauched his sister, leading her to her grave. His plan is perfect. He'd seduce the
innocent woman destined to be Daniel's wife. He'd teach her harlot tricks, and maybe late one
night,
when she lies in her husband's arms, rather than calling out her husband's name, she'll call out
Roland's name instead. He didn't know she'd teach him to love. Kept like Rapunzel in her tower,
far
removed from the mundane necessities of life, Rachel Summerville accepts her aunt's dictate that
her
only job in life is to be pretty and to marry well. Despite his misgivings, Rachel plans to marry the
man her aunt selected for her. Then she meet's one of her aunt's guests. Roland's insolent smiles
and
hopeless importance awakens the woman within. Even knowing that he's a gambler, a horse thief
and a con man, Rachel allows him to teach her the pleasures of life. She descends a rope to his
waiting arms, and together they walk the streets of San Francisco, attending the symphony and
tasting the forbidden. Even as she gives Roland her heart, she knows she will marry another. Once
again author Linda Jones creates a naughty, sensual romance that will hold readers entranced.
Combining the faerie tale elements of Rapunzel with the horrors of Jack the Ripper, Let Down
Your
Hair becomes a tale both uncommonly fresh and sharply original. This sensual journey of a young
woman's awakening sexuality combines eroticism and innocence in a heady blend. As Rachel
learns
to let her hair down, they share a joint lesson in life and in love. Let Down Your Hair is a
delightful
read, coming highly recommended.
Gabriel's Fate
Emma Craig
Love Spell/Dorchester Publishing
276 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10001
ISBN 0505524295, $5.99, Mass Market Paperback, 368 pages
Clashing beliefs -- Very highly recommended Romance
Gabriel Caine was born in a family of revivalists, which he considered in the same light that Emma
Craig considers clairvoyants. A strange bond to share, indeed, this disbelief in the gifts and beliefs
of
one's family. But Emma's prickly and non-trusting nature doesn't allow for men to enter her life,
and
Gabriel willingly accepts whatever bond he can find. Too bad the only other bond they share is a
desire to locate murderer Ivo Hardwick. With his roguish, dark looks, Gabriel's accustomed to
women simpering and smirking over him. But Gabriel prefers a challenge, and Emma meets that
challenge perfectly. Beneath that haughty exterior, he believes she has character and heart, which
he
intends to reveal. He also intends to uncover Emma's carefully guarded secret. He knows she
intends
to kill Hardwick, but he doesn't know why. Further, his under cover assignment to the Pinkerton
Agency requires that he bring Hardwick back alive. Emma Craig creates a fascinating and daring
blend of spiritualism and the occult in Gabriel's Fate. By treating psychic gifts as blessings from
God,
the spiritual battles of these wounded and disbelieving characters lends strong motivation to the
tale.
The secondary characters, including a tarot card reading aunt, a Russian midget, and a Chinese
pub
keep the reader entertained with their antics and audaciousness. In addition, Craig's heroine
breaks
romantic standards with her concern for extra pounds on a figure the hero considers lush.
Consequently, with powerful conflict and strong motivation, Gabriel's Fate comes very highly
recommended.
Dark Fire
Christine Feehan
Love Spell/Dorchester Publishing
276 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10001
ISBN 0505524473, $TBA, Mass Market Paperback, 390 pages
Evocative and intense -- Very highly recommended Love Spell Romance
A dangerous, dark fire burns in Carpathian men. More animal than man, they are predators. Each
Carpathian man must find the light to his darkness, or risk losing the color and emotions that
prevent
them from slipping over the edge into becoming a vampire. Once Tempest enters his life, Darius
may
display a perfect tranquility, but beneath the surface fierce emotion seethes. There is only one
woman for each male. Accustomed to having his own way, Darius meets his match in Tempest.
He
expects deference to his every wish. She is accustomed to being utterly independent. As they
share
thoughts and memories, Darius comes to understand Tempest also share the same aching
loneliness
concealed in his own soul. Audacious, defiant, and tempestuous, Tempest lives up to her name
with
her rebellious attitude and stirring up of trouble. As she learns to calm the fury of her mind,
however, Tempest discovers the power of her own psychic gifts, as well as the pull of fate.
Destined
to become Darius' life mate, Tempest struggles against the mesmerizing pull of his presence, the
seductive danger and sheer magic of his voice. She doesn't understand that she puts color in
Darius'
world, igniting passion and emotion long forgotten over endless centuries. Indeed, it seems every
time she goes out, trouble has a way of finding her, whether it be vampire hunters and injured
animals. Christine Feehan brings texture and richness to her latest saga of Carpathians in Dark
Fire.
As sparks ignite between these strong willed, multifaceted characters, Darius knows he's met his
life
mate because she's literarily put color back in his universe. Tempest isn't nearly so trusting of fate,
exerting her fierce independence and proving the strength of her mettle. Yet Darius ignites a dark
fire every time he touches her, providing a scintillating, sensual read. Further, watching Darius
learn
to cope with long forgotten emotion following centuries of icy control makes for evocative,
intense
entertainment. As a new fan of this series, this reader found obvios ties to previous books, but still
feels the strength of the novel allows it to stand alone as well. Very highly recommended.
If I Were An Eagle
D. L. Hale
Direct/American Publisher
325 East 2400 South, Salt Lake City, Utah 84115
No ISBN, $TBA, Paperback
Disappointing Historical Fiction
The first installment of a trilogy, If I Were An Eagle tells the story of Karen Quincy. A vivacious,
attractive young lady, Karen yearns for popularity and love, filling her needs in the arms of her
boyfriend. She uses friends, lies and opportunity to escape her strict home and spend time with
Hank. But when he goes off to college, Karen finds herself left behind. Karen's family reflects the
strict morality and staunch religious fervor of her era. Dancing, dating, and especially public
shows
of affection are forbidden. Karen's rebelliousness leads to a break with her family when they learn
of
her pregnancy. Hank has disappeared from her life, leaving her to face devastation alone. She
decides upon an abortion during a time when it was both illegal and very dangerous. Following
her
doctor's referral, Karen makes the arrangements. Since the novel begins with her labor, she
obviously has second thoughts. Author David Hale brings his own knowledge of the foothills of
the
Great Smoky Mountains in East Tennessee to If I Were An Eagle, beautifully capturing the deeply
spiritual cultural of these staunchly religious family, and the times which shape their world.
Unfortunately, this reviewer was badly distracted by frequent misuse of punctuation, word
choices,
and other editing flaws, making the task of completing the book difficult. As with many books
that
are a part of the new glut of works available on the web, a critique group and a good editor could
have turned this manuscript into something extraordinary. Instead, it is best left languishing in the
slush pile.
Daniel's Ride
Michael Perry, author & Lee Ballard, illustrator
Free Will Press
P.O. Box 12130 San Francisco, CA 94112
ISBN 0970177194, $TBA, Library Binding, 32 pages
Very highly recommended Ages 6-Up
Daniel eagerly awaits a promised ride in his older brother Hector '63 Impala convertible "complete
with spider hydraulics and gold wire wheels." Together they celebrate the first weekend of
summer
vacation. They turn up the volume on their music and cruise, transforming the Impala into "a
funky
barrio carnival ride." They join the cool cars cruising the beech before visiting the cousin. When
the
ride is over, Hector promise the car to Daniel if he finishes high school and plans to go to college.
Author Michael Perry brings his street-savvy writing style to children's books in Daniel's Ride.
With
the lyricism gained with his musical background, and an intense understanding of what motivates
children, Perry creates a fun, hotrodding tale of sun, brothers and cars certain to delight young
readers. Crisp, believable, readable dialog combine lends the story vibrant energy and promise.
Very
highly recommended.
Bloodsworth Island
Jeff Slate & David Rearden
America House Book Publishers
Post Office Box 1109, Frederick, MD 21702
ISBN 1588513513, $TBA, Trade Paperback, 344 pages
When free thought's eliminated -- Recommended Suspense/Thriller
Dr. Marcus Gallagher holds virtually omnipotent power over Bloodsworth Island in the
Chesapeake
Bay. His followers are a carefully assembled group of doctors, a "body" thoroughly indoctrinated
into his principles. Hs myriad principles rely upon eliminating free thought and complete
dedication
to his dream of eliminating disease. Rigid control of the doctors in his employee insures that no
one
on the outside knows of the methods Dr Gallagher intends to employ while taking funding from
the
Federal Government to further his research. Rather than healing those plagued with debilitating
disease, such as Cystic Fibrosis, he plans to eradicate the population who carry the genes for such
disease. Human testing has already begun. The book begins with Gene Nolan, one of three
doctors
sent to Orani tribe in the Ecuadorian rain forest. The doctors inject each tribe member with an
immunization that actually kills with great rapidity. When a doctor challenges what they are
doing,
the Paladin Alfred injects the dissenter with the killing shot. As he dies, he breaks one of the
Principles, he tells Gene that no one leaves "the body" alive. When Gene asks their leader Alfred
about what happened, he's reminded of the seventh principle; that is, "Components of the body
would be told whatever they needed to know." The overly done theme of research scientists
playing
God-like eugenics achieves a new freshness in the hands of authors Jeff Slate and David Rearden.
These authors combine many of the strongest elements of our culture to new ends, constructing a
dangerous and destructive world. The echoes of Big Brother watching, keeping the "body" in line
with careful observance and control seems all too plausible in this information age of easy
tracking
and recording. Likewise, the echoes the rituals and rites that have brought clarity and insight to
many religious followers give this fascinating novel chilling spiritual overtones. In addition, the
Orani
tribe lends a chilling lesson as their systematic destruction ends with their villae burning,
destroying
all evidence in a frightening echo of the Holocaust. The simplistic plot could have used a few
more
twists to fully satisfy this reader. In addition, the author's tone sounds more like a reporter giving
the
facts rather portrayed the expected emotion; however, it still makes for a fascinating read.
Recommended.
A Woman's Relationship Survival Guide If He's Worth It
Patrisha Stauss
1st Books Library
2511 West Third Street, Bloomington, IN 47404
ISBN 158721475X, $TBA, Paperback, 404 pages
An extremely useful tool -- Highly recommended Self Help
Honestly evaluating a relationship can be one the greatest challenges a woman can face. We seem
to
know when things are well; it's when things don't feel quite right that the self-honesty becomes far
more difficult. Patrisha Stauss makes the task of evaluating relationship far simpler in A Woman's
Relationship Survival Guide (If He's Worth It). Stauss aids readers in showing women how to
make
their partner aware of their feelings and how to better understand them, including their likes,
dislikes
and the reasons for their reactions. Laid out as a survival map, A Woman's Relationship Survival
Guide leads the reader through paths intended to strengthen the inner self. She allows the reader
the
opportunity to examine several alternatives, and to accept the consequences of each path.
Following
the opportunities available, women will learn to take responsible for their decisions and their own
happiness. Stauss provides practical advice and practical solutions to begin the path to
independence
and responsibility. She also provides advice on how to minimize the struggles between the
differences that separate the sexes. A Woman's Relationship Survival Guide is geared toward
women in unhappy relationships seeking solutions. While many women in our culture have
learned
to successfully live as independent women, many others are still struggling with the cycle of
dependence handed down by tradition and history. While she does suggest that there are times to
draw the line and move on, Stauss does not offer this advice lightly. Instead, she shows the reader
how to take control of the inner self and learn how to work around and accept men's behaviors
and
attitudes. A number of useful resources are also included. An extremely useful tool for women in
crisis over their relationships, A Woman's Relationship Survival Guide is highly
recommended.
To Charm A Knight
Linda Kay
Zebra Books/Kensington Publishing Corp.
850 Third Avenue, New York NY 10022
ISBN 0821769901, $5.99, Mass Market Paperback, 352 pages
Her knight in rusty armor --Very highly recommended Historical Romance
When he bought Castle Avondel with an eye to renovation, medieval junky H. Walter Harrington,
IV never expected to encounter an ancient curse that causes plaster to crumble as soon as it dries,
or
stones to fall no matter how carefully stacked. So he hires the proprietor/wizard of Any Time Any
Place to sweep himself and his personal assistant Victoria Desmond into the thirteenth century so
that he might end the curse. Unfortunately, the medieval text upon which they rely holds several
inaccuracies, including the date they need, and the identity of the invaders of Castle Avondel.
Instead of correcting the curse, H. Walter finds himself kidnapped by Sir Ranulf, the lord who
seized
the castle lands and reputably killed the lord and lady of Castle Avondel. Now Victoria must
rescue
her boss by finding Aethelwyn's Amulet. The amulet is rumored to be magic, insuring protection
to
the castle. Unfortunately, in the thirteenth century women must have a knight to champion their
cause, and the knight who presents himself to her aid doesn't meet the typical knightly code.
While
he might champion the virtues of honor and courage, he also needs a bath and he needs to polish
his
armor. Sir Perceval, as he presents himself, actually has his own agenda. His name is actually
Gareth,
and King Henry supports his quest to restore Castle Avodel to himself, the rightful heir. Readers
who enjoyed To Tame A Rogue will delight in Linda Kay's latest time travel romance, To Charm
A
Knight. With unusual characterizations that ignore impossibly perfect romantic standards of
beauty,
this heroine and hero are convincingly real. Victoria's plain features and Gareth's rust armor
insures
characters that readers identify with as well as fantasize about. Yet Victoria's bold, sassy approach
and her determination make her a terrific heroine, even as she clashes with subservient roles of
medieval women. A delightful read destined for the keeper shelf, To Charm A Knight comes very
highly recommended.
The Miner's Daughter: The Dream Maker
Alice Duncan
Zebra Books/Kensington Publishing Corp.
850 Third Avenue, New York NY 10022
ISBN 0821768808, $TBA, Mass Market Paperback, 352 pages
Dreams do come true -- Very highly recommended Historical Ballad Romance
Under the unforgiving sun of the Mojave Desert, Mari Pottersby has learned the art of survival.
Mari
has lived alone for the last months, since her father died, trying to continue her father's dream of
striking it rich with Marigold Mine, her namesake. A woman accustomed to harsh living and hard
work, Peerless Studio's offer to use her mine for the price of $5,000 seems too good to be true.
And
the invitation to become the leading lady for the same pay likewise seems unbelievable. Tony
Ewing's father is an investor with Peerless Studios and Tony's been sent along to protect that
investment. The last thing he expected was a hot hellion that captures his imagination, rubs him
the
wrong way, and refuses to back down to anyone. Further, Mari's illogical loyalty to her father's
dream, her lack of respect for Tony and his money, and her smart mouth at once fascinate and
appall
him. As she gains polish, Tony finds that his fascination becomes quite dangerous to his heart.
Once
again author Alice Duncan masterfully creates a fiercely independent, slightly offbeat heroine the
reader can't help but love. What Mari lacks in propriety she makes up with her bodacious attitude.
Mari sharply contrasts with the very wealthy, polished hero, resulting in memorable
characterizations that demonstrate Duncan's style at her best. When combined with the unique
background of the early days of motion pictures, the result is as hot as the Mojave Desert used for
the setting. The Miner's Daughter comes very highly recommended.
No Place For A Lady
Deb Stover
Zebra Books/Kensington Publishing Corp.
850 Third Avenue, New York NY 10022
ISBN 0821770918, $TBA, Mass Market Paperback, 352 pages
A must read -- Very highly recommended Historical Romance
Molly gave up the green isle of Ireland years ago to become a lady's maid when fate intervened in
her dreams. In service to a selfish, spoiled woman, Molly endures careless abuse at the hand of
her
lady. But fate intervenes again when Lady Elizabeth becomes pregnant as the result of a tryst in a
carriage with a mysterious man with strikingly green eyes. Now she will forsake the glitter of
London to become a rancher's wife in the wilds of Colorado. Molly holds her own dreams of
Colorado, the land where her father disappeared many years ago. The journey is uneventful until
the
final leg when highwaymen overtake their carriage. The Lovejoy Gang robs them, and murder
several witnesses, including the driver who dies in Molly's arms. Lady Elizabeth is kidnapped by
Lovejoy to be held for ransom. Molly doesn't know the driver Slim is actually her father, and his
well-meaning aid results in great confusion. As she lays wounded nearby, Molly and Lady
Elizabeth's
identities are reversed. With a concussion and dosed with laudanum, it takes a while to correct the
mistake, by which time she's married to Dirk Ballinger, Lady Elizabeth's betrothed. The high
mountains and passes of Colorado are No Place For A Lady in Deb Stover's latest achievement.
Webs of deception and delightful conundrums result in a passionate romance with marvelous
depth.
The secondary plots weave a complexity that reflects and strengthens the main plot with powerful
characterizations and startling details. Indeed, Stover is a writer of graceful imagination and
intense
passion, creating masterful work romance lovers will find enchanting. Sexy and irresistible, No
Place
For A Lady comes very highly recommended.
Grand Design: The Hope Chest
Karen Fox
Zebra Books/Kensignton Publishing Corp.
850 Third Avenue, New York, NY 10022
ISBN 0821769030, $TBA, Mass Market Paperback, 352 pages
A whimsical escape -- Recommended Ballad Historical Romance
There's something winningly whimsical and marvelously magical about the premise of the power
of a
hope chest and equinoxes winging characters across time to find healing and love. A hope chest
found in the historic Chesterfield, now undergoing renovation provides the focal point for this
series.
In Karen Fox's Grand Design, the third book of the Hope Chest miniseries, it's the nameplate from
a
portrait that carries frustrated artist Cynda Madison back in time to find her love. Cynda Madison
finds a strikingly handsome face beneath the years of filth in a portrait she's been commissioned to
restore. Her own artwork lacks the sweeping passion apparent in every brush stroke, leaving her
wishing for such bold zeal. When she's swept back in time, Cynda immediately recognizes Prince
Dimitri Karakov from the portrait, finding the living man even sexier than the portrait. Her
warnings
of danger, however, fall on deaf ears when she tries to warn him that he's to die on December
12th.
Duty comes before pleasure for Prince Dimitri Karakov, even when it comes to Cynda. He
wearies
of the husband hunting vixens at the Chesterfield, where he's accompanying his grandmother while
she takes in the healing waters. Cynda brings a welcome respite with her forthright, direct speech
and lack of flirtatiousness. While she's much too forward for a servant, her intelligence and
quick-wittedness makes her irresistible. When his younger brother shows interest in Cynda,
Dimitri's
unprepared for his overwhelming jealousy. Too bad he's been pledged since birth to a proper
woman
for a Prince. Readers who enjoyed the previous two installments of this miniseries as well as fans
of
author Karen Fox's Prince Of Charming will thrill to this newest offering, Grand Design. As in
Prince Of Charming, Fox brings her love of painting to Grand Design, when a portrait wings this
heroine back in time. With her characteristic ingenuity, Fox paints a blend of the fantastic and the
mundane, bringing enormous passion to her canvas in this portrait of love. Faorite secondary
characters of this miniseries seamlessly connect the novel to the other parts of the miniseries, in
addition to introducing two willful, strong-minded main characters. A playful, lighthearted read,
Grand Design is perfect reading for an afternoon. Recommended.
Hot Blooded
Lisa Jackson
Zebra Books/Kensington Publishing Corp.
850 Third Avenue, New York NY 10022
ISBN 0821768417, $6.99, Mass Market Paperback, 464 pages
Stunning -- Very highly recommended Romantic Suspense
Police find prostitutes murdered in the New Orleans French Quarter, strangled by a rosary with
sharpened beads. The bodies are left with their legs splayed, their hands poised as if in prayer, a
hundred dollar bill with the eyes blackened out left on the bedside table. In the background, the
radio
softly plays. Radio psychologist Dr. Samantha Leeds returns to work after a disastrous two-week
vacation in Mexico. She finds a message on her answering machine a admonition that she must
pay
for her sins. In the mail, she finds a mutilated publicity photo. Threatening phone calls to the radio
station follow, all warning her that "I know what you did you're not going to get away with
it .You're going to have to pay for sins." Police detective Rick Bentz discovers the link between
the serial killings and Samantha. As the threats continue, Samantha realizes the killer knows too
much about her and must be close to her. She can't trust anyone, not even her sexy new neighbor
Ty
Wheeler, who holds secrets of his own. Then a woman calls claiming to be from Samantha's past;
a
woman Samantha knows died nine years ago. As killings become less random, moving closer to
Samantha's inner circle, police warn she's becoming a target. Fans of police procedural-thrillers
will
thoroughly enjoy Lisa Jackson's Hot Blooded. This riveting, fast-paced plot keeps the reader
guessing as Jackson casts her spell of psychological terror. The dark atmosphere and intense
suspense, along with masterful characterization, result in a stunning conclusion. Look for the
sequel
next year, Cold Blooded, which promises a return of some many of the characters from . Very
highly
recommended.
Lottie And The Rustler: Bogus Brides
Linda Lea Castle
Zebra Books/Kensington Publishing Corp.
850 Third Avenue, New York NY 10022
ISBN 082176831X, $TBA, Mass Market Paperback, 320 pages
The light and shadow of emotion -- Highly recommended Ballad Romance
Dressmaker Lottie chooses her bogus 'husband" from a wanted poster. She believes herself much
more clever than her sisters, who fabricated their husbands out of thin air. At least her husband
truly
exists, even if he's in prison serving a very long sentence. Hiding behind her married status, Lottie
creates a satisfying life, although in the dark of night she occasionally imagines what it would be
like
to let her steely control slip and do something shocking and wild. Indeed, Lottie's always had a
fascination with the dark side of life, craving adventure and excitement, that's she holds tightly in
check until she meets Shayne Rosswarne. When he's released, Shayne heads straight to McTavish
Plain, in the North Dakota Territory where he plans to kill a man. When he arrives, however, the
town greets him as Lottie's husband. Rather than revealing the truth, he plays the hand he's dealt;
pleased with the woman he's "married" to. A little seduction of his enemy's sister-in-law should
make
revenge all the sweeter. But Lottie's not what Shayne expects in a woman. She's fire and hot
current
with a heated connection to him that challenges his desire for revenge and concept of honor.
Author
Linda Lea Castle pens a charming conclusion to the Bogus Bride trilogy with Lottie And The
Rustler. Castle's prose sparkles with fun and whimsy combined with dark passion, resulting in a
marvelous contrast of the light and shadow of emotion. Indeed, the wrestling of emotions in this
hero, as he struggles to let go of the very resolve that kept him alive for years, creates tremendous
tension. A novel of self-acceptance and transformation, Lottie And The Rustler combines heat,
sensuality and love in a memorable read. Highly recommended.
Her Leading Man: The Dream Maker
Alice Duncan
Zebra Books/Kensington Publishing Corp.
850 Third Avenue, New York NY 10022
ISBN 0821768816, $5.99, Mass Market Paperback, 352 pages
Add this one to your keeper shelf -- Very highly recommened Historical Ballad Romance
Film director Martin Tafft grows increasingly disillusioned with the industry. When he began in
1904, he believed that the brilliant creation of motion pictures would be the salvation of humanity,
spanning the differences between people to allow them to see the commonalities. Instead, the
industry deteriorates into a slough of immorality and decadence. He still has hopes that when
"talkies" come into their own actors and actresses will be forced to spend their evenings learning
their lines rather than wildly carousing the town. Martin's newest leading lady Christina is made of
a
different ilk than most actresses seeking stardom. She sees acting as a means to an end. Rejected
from scholarships because she's female, she intends to earn sufficient funds to pursue her dreams
of a
medical degree. To protect her reputation and run interference, she brings her Grandmother to the
set as a chaperone. The elderly Mrs. Mayhew, Gran, provides marvelous comic relief with her
high-spirited ways and obnoxious remarks. Christina calls her an Egalitarian because "she treated
everyone like dirt." Although Christine prides herself on her independence, it helps to have
someone
with a reputation for hardhead ness and a nasty disposition on her side. Martin's latest project is
an
Egyptian epic based on the bible. But when his loathsome lead breaks his arm trying to ride a
camel,
Martin finds himself stepping into the part. Despite the strong chemistry between Martin and
Christina, he's not prepared for her out spoken ways when states that she wants to make love with
him. Rather than flattered, he's outraged because he considers her perspective to be repetitious of
the deterioration of the morals of the industry. He doesn't perceive her outspokenness to be a
natural
part of her independence and honesty. Now they must act together in the roles of lovers, and as
the
heat increases on screen, it likewise threatens a conflagration off screen. Especially when their
passion takes control, but the moralistic Martin wants marriage and the deermined Christina wants
a
medical career. The entire Dream Maker miniseries has been a huge success, culminating in The
Leading Man. Indeed, the early years of the motion picture industry with its rapid changes has
provided a fascinating background beautifully captured by author Alice Duncan's talented pen.
Further, Duncan has a flair for creating both unconventional and unorthodox characters that really
grab the imagination. Christina, like each of her predecessors, possesses strength of character and
a
gentle vulnerability that makes her markedly appealing. Martin, who's been a background
character
of each book, finally gets the story he so richly deserves. His concerns regarding the moral
character
of his industry span the decades, making him a surprisingly contemporary hero. Very highly
recommended.
Every Move She Makes
Beverly Barton
Zebra Books/Kensignton Publishing Corp.
850 Third Avenue, New York, NY 10022
ISBN 0821768387, $TBA, Mass Market Paperback, 384 pages
He'd been the guy every girl wanted and every parent feared -- Very highly recommended
Romantic
Suspense
When Spring Creek, Alabama's worst bad boy finally makes parole after fifteen years of
imprisonment, someone's eager to send Reed Conway back to those steel bars. Indeed, perhaps
the
same someone who framed him for the murder of his abusive stepfather, Junior Blalock, in the
first
place. While everyone in town knew the evil intent of his stepfather, Reed was one who badly
beat
the older man, and it was his knife found at the murder scene with only his fingerprints. Judge Ella
Porter was only a teenager when Reed was convicted. Her father was a DA then, moving onto
becoming a senator while she now presides in Spring Creek's court. Shortly following Reed's
release, Ella receives sexually titillating, anonymous letters richly reminiscent of the letters Reed
sent
her to taunt her father fifteen years ago. Despite Reed's prostrations of innocence, when letters
escalate into danger, the whole town seems determined to convict Reed a second time. As Ella
and
Reed join forces to discover the true killer, they find themselves drawn together in firey passion.
Obviously, someone watches Every Move She Makes, and will stop at nothing to keep Reed from
uncovering the truth behind his conviction. Southern small town corruption and secrets come to
light in Beverly Barton's Every Move She Makes, revealing the hidden passions of love and
murder.
Intricately plotted, Barton presents a risk cast of suspects, from a senator to a mechanic, cutting
across economics and politics a blistering combination. As tension builds between Ella and Reed,
they find themselves torn between past and present, truth and lies, danger and passion. Very
highly
recommended.
A Stranger's Kiss: Midnight Mask
Maria Greene
Zebra Books/Kensignton Publishing Corp.
850 Third Avenue, New York, NY 10022
ISBN 0821771035, $TBA, Mass Market Paperback, 316 pages
Second chances -- Recommended Ballad Historical Romance
Rafe Howard had been a hard, thoughtless man before he returned to England after the war
against
the French. He suffers from amnesia, recalling only vague, illusive dreams. A chance meeting with
the Midnight Bandit kept him from pursuing the little he gleaned from his dreams. Believing his
daughter dead, Rafe returns to his home to a hostile wife who refuses to live with him and blanket
animosity from his contemporaries. Rafe has lost everything, including his daughter, his wife
Andria,
and his memories. Soon, however, he realizes their daughter is not dead. A mysterious woman
had
been planted in his life with false information. But the question remains as to why anyone would
cause such pain to the grieving parents. Andria misses the powerful, special connection she had
shared with her husband. But after a child died that they had loved as their own, the pain seemed
to
eat at their relationship. Even the birth of their daughter wasn't enough to keep them together. In
the
last months they had been together, suspicion and false blame replaced gentle love and tender
caresses. After Rafe left and her child disappeared, Adria visited every orphanage in London
desperate to find her daughter. Resigned to her grief, Andria's life becomes touched with havoc
once
again with Rafe's return. She'd prefer to deny her feelings for the man she married after he caused
so
much pain. Author Maria Greene pens an irresistible historical romance in A Stranger's Kiss.
Revenge and true love provide powerful motivation in this tale of betrayal and redemption. Part of
the Midnight Mask miniseries, A Stranger's Kiss reads beautifully also as a stand-alone. Sketching
the deepest of emotions with grace, Greene creates moving and memorable characters.
Unfortunately, the distrust between the characters results in a tense reading experience.
Recommended.
Deep Midnight
Shannon Drake
Zebra Books/Kensington Publishing Corp.
850 Third Avenue, New York NY 10022
ISBN 0821768379, $TBA, Mass Market Paperback, 478 pages
The opulence of Venice's Carnivale conceals a danger in the night that will lead book reviewer
Jordan Riley through its decadent streets and to New Orleans seeking answers. A tarot card
reader
warns Jordan of deep midnight, the true dead of night, when all light fades and shadows even fall
in
darkness. Jordan can't trust anyone, especially the mysterious Ragnor, who insists that she must
trust
him. She sees a dead man's visage on mannequins, wolves in shadows, and hears the whisper of
wings in the night. Ragnor tells her that she should simply go home to the United States. Jordan
accompanies her cousin Jared and his wife to an extravagant party given by Contessa della Triste.
The highly respected Contessa gives huge sums of money for the renovation of the ancient
buildings
of Venice and for orphans. She employees Jared in some mysterious business, and holds him
responsible when Jordan witnesses the enactment of a play in the second floor ballroom, which
proves to be no enactment at all, but a macabre feeding frenzy on the innocent. A mysterious man
dressed a wolf rescues her, helping her to flee the residence. When Jordan goes to the police,
however, to tell what she witnessed, no one believes her. They say that she's over wrought, still
suffering from the grief of loosing her fianc‚ the year when he was killed by a cult. The Contessa
sympathetically forgives her brash tales, blaming an over stimulated imagination and grief over the
past. Shannon Drake pens a compelling tale of the supernatural in Deep Midnight. Vibrant
costuming and hedonistic pleasure conceal an ancient evil and a history of revenge. The prose
flows
as gently as the water of Venice canals, rich with nuance and promise. Some may find the first half
of the novel unnecessarily slow, though it truly reflects the unhurried pace of the Carnivale itself.
Rich descriptive passages and detours into darkened corners become a reflection of the ancient
streets of Venice with its dangerous, darkened side streets. As tension builds, and the impossible
provs all too real, Jordan never backs away from the pursuit of answers, even when it leads
unexpectedly to her own past and answers that seem impossible. The slow pace won't suit
everyone's taste; nevertheless, this new fan finds Drake's view of the world fascinating. Highly
recommended.
Stolen Hearts: Hope Chest
Laura Hayden
Zebra Books/Kensington Publishing Corp.
850 Third Avenue, New York NY 10022
ISBN 0821769057, $5.99, Mass Market Paperback, 320 pages
It will steal your heart -- Very highly recommened Historical Ballad Romance
There's something winningly whimsical and marvelously magical about the premise of the power
of a
hope chest and equinoxes winging characters across time to find healing and love. A hope chest
found in the historic Chesterfield, now undergoing renovation provides the focal point for the
Hope
Chest miniseries. In Karen Fox's Laura Hayden's Stolen Hearts, the forth book of the Hope Chest
miniseries, it's the chain to a stolen emerald necklace that wings the King of Thieves back in time
to
discover love. The King of Thieves known as only Delagatto is a twenty-second century Robin
Hood, who redistributes the wealth of those undeserving to those in true need such as orphans. At
thirty-eight, he's growing tired of being a cat burglar, of researching his marks, planning his strike,
and executing his theft. But honor ties him to a family legacy, and he cannot retire without
fulfilling
the pledge. Like his father and his grandfather, Delagatto vows to find and steal back the family
heirloom that had been taken from their royal family a hundred years ago. His need to prove his
skill,
and the promise of the heirloom, lead to his passage back in time. Planning to leave on the next
train
after completing her two-year contract as a maid at the Chesterfield Hotel, Emily Drewett
receives a
telegram warning her not to come home due to a quarantine. With no money and no place to go,
she
accepts a generous offer to spend the holidays in a luxurious room compliment of the hotel
owners.
The upcoming Christmas masquerade ball will provide the opportunity for her dress in borrowed
finery and flirt outrageously with handsome young men. While it might be the emerald around her
neck that draws Delagatto, it's her stunning green eyes that threaten his heart. As she disappears
among the masked and bejeweled, Delagatto makes plans to purloin the jewel later.
Unfortunately,
he doesn't know the beauty's identity. Laura Hayden's Stolen Hearts provides a terrific edition to
the
Hope Chest Miniseries. Perhaps it would have benefited from an ealier release as it doesn't update
previous characters. And Karen Fox's Grand Design indicates a renovation of the old Chesterfield
Hotel, while Hayden indicates further deterioration. Those small details aside, Stolen Hearts is a
marvelous read. While in previous books of the miniseries, it's the women who travel back in time,
in
Stolen Hearts it's the man who moves backward in time. And this is no ordinary hero, but a man
of
his own code of honor. An imaginative, sparkling edition to the Hope Chest miniseries, Stolen
Hearts will steal the reader's heart. Very highly recommended.
A Reason To Live: The True Story Of One Woman's Love, Courage And Determination To
Survive
Billy Hills & Dale Hudson
Front Street Publishing
2458 Cherry Street, Dubuque, IA 52001
ISBN 0970842406, $TBA, Hardcover, 311 pages
"May God have mercy on your soul." -- Very highly recommended True Crime
The condemnation was neither a surprise nor was it undeserved because Ronal Raymond Woomer
committed one of the most heinous strings of crime ever perpetrated in the state of South
Carolina.
Through the careful gathering of facts, the deliberation and the sentencing, the criminal showed
no
remorse. Yet his horrific actions changed a number of lives forever. The plan seemed simple.
Skaar
and Woomer would get directions from coin dealer Whitehead and drive to the small town where
John Turner lived. After robbing the old man, they would leave him dead, take his coins back to
Whitehead and get paid. If all went well, this would only be the first of a series of crimes. High on
drugs and alcohol, Skaar and Woomer not only carried out their intended crime, but also went on
a
murdering spree that would leave bodies in three counties. In addition to theft and murder, they
would commit kidnapping and rape. When on the verge of apprehension, Skaar commited suicide,
leaving partner Woomer to take the fall. The worst didn't pass with the conviction and sentencing
of
Woomer for victim Wanda Summers. Wanda is a woman of remarkable courage, more concerned
during the perpetration of the crime for her friend that for herself, and afterward more concerned
for
her daughter and husband than for herself. But with much of her face destroyed, Wanda not only
had
to survive an attempted murder and testify against her perpetrator, she had to recover afterward.
While press and well meaning supporters hale the time of recovery as getting back to normal,
Wanda
still had to endure surgery and deeper emotional healing. Grueling and intense, recovery was
slow.
One of the most chilling true crime novels of our time, A Reason To Live will haunt the reader
long
after the last page is turned. A Reason To Live is a testament to both the strength of human spirit
and to the power of evil. The combined talents of Billy Hills and Dale Hudson bring the criminal
events, the trial and the consequences vividly to life without dwelling too deeply or too log in the
grotesque atrocities committed, simply allowing the facts to speak for themselves. Despite the
tragedy, the horror of disfigurement and the loss of life, these authors maintain their focus not on
the
criminal but on the victims and that their families, bringing their voices to the forefront, unlike
typical true crime novels which focus on the criminal. The end result is powerful and persuasive,
striking at the heart of the weakness of our criminal justice system thereby standing up for victims.
A
Reason To Life is one of those remarkable novels that change the way we perceive justice and
rights, as well as the way we prosecute criminals. Very highly recommended.
The Calamity Janes
Sherryl Woods
Silhouette Books
300 East 42nd Street, New York, New York, 10017
ISBN 0373484399, $TBA, Mass Market Paperback, 304 pages
Sherryl Woods continues this delightful miniseries, The Calamity Janes, with a single title release
by
the same name. Five friends share an enduring friendship, begun in high school, self-named for
their
penchant for broken hearts and troubles. Though their lives are widely divergent now, these
women
are still as close as sisters, despite their infrequent contact. In this forth installment, top Denver
attorney Emma Rogers struggles with pressures from work, family and the past. Competitive
Emma
is on a career fast track despite a divorce and motherhood. Too bad she rarely has time for dinner
with her six-year-old daughter Caitlyn. Her ex had assumed she'd sacrifice her career to be a stay
at
home mother after a failed birth control fluke. But Emma hadn't cooperated. She hadn't excelled
in
law school only to walk away. Despite her ex's manipulations designed to sabotage her career,
including the ultimate of betrayals, Emma was steadfast in her goals. The trouble is, years later
she
can't help wondering if she's making a mistake to allow the nanny the pleasure of raising her
daughter. Enjoying their first vacation in two years, Emma and Caitlyn return to Winding River,
Wyoming for Emma's class reunion. Her immediate antipathy to the town's new newspaper
publisher
Ford Hamilton only results in friends and family's speculation and hope that she'll return to the
slower paced town for keeps. Indeed, she's surprised to realize Ford easily matches the excitement
she's only found before in court. But she's very uncomfortable that he's as adept at zeroing in on
the
hidden motives and the hearts of matters as any good prosecutor. She'd best find a quick defense
before she gives away her heart and her future. In this single title release of the Calamity Jane
series,
author Sherryl Woods dazzling gift for storytelling excels, as references to other books in the
series
enrich the narrative without inhibiting the flow. Heroine Emma's struggle with her inward
expectations lends depth, giving voice to many career mom's concern. Hero Ford Hamilton's
persistence and perseverance in spite of Emma's protestations makes for enduring reading.
Readers
will also find themselves smiling at grandparent's efforts to charm their grandchild complete with
pony and kitten. Very highly recommended.
The Taming of Jackson Cade: Silhouette Desire, 1393
B. J. James
Silhouette Books
300 East 42nd Street, New York, New York, 10017
ISBN 037376393X, $3.99, Mass Market Paperback, 182 pages
Jackson Cade has to be beyond desperate to enlist the aid of veterinarian Haley Garrett. Only the
mad screams of his prize stallion and the lack of any known remedy forces Jackson to call Haley.
Shocked when the call comes, she disregards her elegant black dress, trading heals for practical
boots and gloves, as she rushes to the emergency. Even Jackson's hostile attitude isn't enough to
dissuade her from the stallion in obvious crisis. Now Jackson has nightmares of that night and
seeing
Haley crushed between the mad horse and the wall, lying on the floor beneath flaying hooves.
Combined with the memory of undressing her, as he prepares Haley for a doctor's examination, he
can't get her out of his mind. But Jackson long ago vowed to avoid professional women like
Haley,
despite his screaming hormones. Author BJ James provides some unexpected twists in The
Taming
Of Jackson Cade. These unusual, memorable characters will capture the reader's heart and
imagination, lingering long after the last page is turned. A delightful read, The Taming Of Jackson
Cade comes highly recommended.
This Perfect Stranger: Intimate Moments No 1103
Barbara Ankrum
Silhouette Books
300 East 42nd Street, New York, New York, 10017
ISBN 0373271735, $TBA, Mass Market Paperback, 251 pages
Dark overtones and secrets -- Very highly recommended Contemporary Romance
Until he meets Maggie Cortland, Cain MacCallister hasn't wanted anyone in his life since he lost
Annie, which scares the hell out of him. Reckless, dangerous, self-contained, Cain can't seem to
leave the past behind. But Maggie makes him want to forget the hurt of the past, making him
forget
to guard his secrets and his heart. She makes him want things a man like him, he believes, doesn't
deserve. A drifter, he only comes to her ranch because he's hungry, and someone said she might
need help. He doesn't intend to stay; there's no stopping when a man runs from the past and
memories. Maggie considers the secrets that Cain keeps carefully guarded part of a packaged
deal.
She respects his silence, his reticence, his ability to work, and his determination. And while she
knows he can never remain a permanent part of his life, she also accepts the time they share
together. She needs to be married if she wants to save the ranch. A thousand acres isn't too much
to
pay for a six-month marriage, even if it proves to be anything but convenient. Even her dark
foreboding that this stranger could be dangerous for her doesn't dissuade Maggie from her plan.
She
won't let the town bully, Laird Donnelly, get what he's always wanted. Author Barbara Ankrum
brings creative flair to This Perfect Stranger. A number of romances have recently centered
around
men who spent time in prison, but Ankrum boldly creates a hero who justifiably served time for a
crime of passion before his sentence was forgiven. Such strong characterization daringly separates
This Perfect Stranger from the competition. Further, this heroine is no shrinking violent, taking on
dangerous men and a hurtful past as she uncovers the truth behind the threats and her husband's
death. A strongly plotted, memorable read, This Perfect Stranger comes very highly
recommended.
Sleeping with the Sultan: Silhouette Desire No 1391
Alexandra Sellers
Silhouette Books
300 East 42nd Street, New York, New York, 10017
ISBN 0373763913, $TBA, Mass Market Paperback, 185 pages
A carefully orchestrated plot brings together chance and opportunity, leading actress Dana
Morningstar to playing the role of a lifetime. When she and Sheikh Ashraf initially meet at fund
raising event, sparks of attraction become transparent to onlookers when the Sheikh kisses her in
front of a room full of people. Despite the sizzle, they both walk away, never anticipating another
encounter. Then her sister calls and Dana agrees to meet the men who hold her sister's gambling
debt. She lacks the funds to pay the debt huge debt herself, and refuses to ask their father and risk
the shock of his youngest daughter's behavior leading to another heart attack. Now Dana has
orders
to help these men collect a supposed debt with the Sheikh by informing them where and when
they
can serve a subpoena. Further, Dana has her own agenda with the Sheikh, and what she plans to
say
to him is not on any casino owner's agenda. Author Alexandra Sellers once again demonstrates
her
masterful storytelling skills, weaving together the gilded world of privilege spanning two
continents
with extraordinary characterizations and a marvelous plot. The elaborate world of fund raising
and
gambling where extravagant sums change hands creates a dazzling background for this unlikely
love
story. The clash of culture and values results in an entertaining tension, thereby presenting a plot
both impossible yet highly probable. An intriguing web of deception and lust, Sleeping With The
Sultan comes highly recommended.
The Renegade Steals a Lady: Intimate Moments No 1104
Vickie Taylor
Silhouette Books
300 East 42nd Street, New York, New York, 10017
ISBN 0373271743, $TBA, Mass Market Paperback, 248 pages
Sizzle and suspicion -- Very highly recommended Contemporary Romance
She's a lowly canine cop. He's a renegade cop gone wrong. Once the department's best narcotics
detective, Marco Angelosi lost his job, his freedom, and very nearly his life for a woman who
seems
to have wanted only a single night's pleasure. He underestimates their connection. One
tumultuous
night, in which they share an intimacy so profound that neither can shake the effects, connects
them
forever despite her refusal to see him again, even despite his arrest. Only two things could keep
Paige Burkett from Marco: prison and death. Prison's already failed. He'd been sentenced to four
years for theft and tampering with evidence. He could have gotten less time if he had shown
remorse
or offered an explanation; instead, he stoically accepted his sentence. In fact, Marco cut a deal
with a
drug lord to protect Paige; now his partners have reneged on the agreement, setting up the
accident
that should have killed him. Worse, his former officers comb the field for Marco, planning to
return
him to prison. Marco had charmed her, bedded her, and beguiled her; now Paige has lost her heart
and soul to the renegade cop. The juxtaposition of the secretive fugitive and the man who carves
planes for children and bounces babies on his knees isn't lost on Paige. He's a man of shadow and
light, and Paige fears she will always feel this chemical, electrical connection. Despite the facts
that
he shot at her and kidnapped her, Paige can't stop her feelings for Marco, or her determination to
do
her duty and turn him in. Vickie Taylor's The Renegade Steals A Lady weaves a tangled web of
deception and corruption as this sexy hero protects his lady. Remarkably conceived, dazzlingly
executed, the result is a complex tale of cops gone wrong that will keep the reader guessing till
the
end. Suspicion and lust give strong characters both motivation and conflict, resulting a sizzling
read.
These are memorable characters that live in the reader's heart and imagination long after the last
page is turned. Add a terrific dog, and The Renegade Steal The Lady comes very highly
recommended.
Jacob's Proposal: Silhouette Desire, 1397
Eileen Wilks
Silhouette Books
300 East 42nd Street, New York, New York, 10017
ISBN 0373763972, $TBA, Mass Market Paperback, 186 pages
Sensual - Very highly recommended Contemporary Romance
Devotion to the woman who treated them as a mother motivates three handsome bachelors to find
wives quickly in Eileen Wilk's Tall, Dark, & Eligible miniseries. Ada's experimental treatment is
exorbitantly expensive, but they'll do anything to prolong her life. To pay for her treatment, they
must fulfill the rules of their trust. Jacob West, nicknamed the Iceman, promises to be the first
brother to marry. Now he just has to find a bride. Too bad the first woman he asks turns him
down.
But his new assistant is promising. Claire McGuire, the woman rumored to have driven Ken
Lawrence mad, accepts the temporary position as Jacob's assistant. Maybe the mansion's
outstanding
security system will keep her safe. Memories of the scandal, the gossip, and the trial haunt her.
But
knowing events could repeat themselves keeps her ever vigilant. She finds her boss to be a
highhanded, irritatingly sexy man, and now she can't help wondering just how much danger she's
living with as well. The debut of Tall, Dark, & Eligible miniseries Jacob's Proposal demonstrates
author Eileen Wilks' remarkable skill. With a deft touch she combines romance and danger,
forcing
her characters to reevaluate their priorities and the their feelings. Sensuality plays a strong role,
entangling these characters in memorable play of emotions. Very highly recommended.
The Renegade Steals a Lady: Intimate Moments No 1104
Vickie Taylor
Silhouette Books
300 East 42nd Street, New York, New York, 10017
ISBN 0373271743, $TBA, Mass Market Paperback, 248 pages
Sizzle and suspicion -- Very highly recommended Contemporary Romance
She's a lowly canine cop. He's a renegade cop gone wrong. Once the department's best narcotics
detective, Marco Angelosi lost his job, his freedom, and very nearly his life for a woman who
seems
to have wanted only a single night's pleasure. He underestimates their connection. One
tumultuous
night, in which they share an intimacy so profound that neither can shake the effects, connects
them
forever despite her refusal to see him again, even despite his arrest. Only two things could keep
Paige Burkett from Marco: prison and death. Prison's already failed. He'd been sentenced to four
years for theft and tampering with evidence. He could have gotten less time if he had shown
remorse
or offered an explanation; instead, he stoically accepted his sentence. In fact, Marco cut a deal
with a
drug lord to protect Paige; now his partners have reneged on the agreement, setting up the
accident
that should have killed him. Worse, his former officers comb the field for Marco, planning to
return
him to prison. Marco had charmed her, bedded her, and beguiled her; now Paige has lost her heart
and soul to the renegade cop. The juxtaposition of the secretive fugitive and the man who carves
planes for children and bounces babies on his knees isn't lost on Paige. He's a man of shadow and
light, and Paige fears she will always feel this chemical, electrical connection. Despite the facts
that
he shot at her and kidnapped her, Paige can't stop her feelings for Marco, or her determination to
do
her duty and turn him in. Vickie Taylor's The Renegade Steals A Lady weaves a tangled web of
deception and corruption as this sexy hero protects his lady. Remarkably conceived, dazzlingly
executed, the result is a complex tale of cops gone wrong that will keep the reader guessing till
the
end. Suspicion and lust give strong characters both motivation and conflict, resulting a sizzling
read.
These are memorable characters that live in the reader's heart and imagination long after the last
page is turned. Add a terrific dog, and The Renegade StealsThe Lady comes very highly
recommended.
The Truth About Tate: Intimate Moments No 1425
Marilyn Pappano
Silhouette Books
300 East 42nd Street, New York, New York, 10017
ISBN 0373244258, $TBA, Mass Market Paperback, 251 pages
Lies, deceptions and charades - Recommended Contemporary Romance
Alabama reporter Natalie Grant lands the chance of the lifetime when US Senator Boyd Chaney
asks
her to write his biography. Tenacious in her efforts to dig up the past, the senator's exploits lead
her
to an affair the senator had thirty years before with Lucinda Rawlins and their illegitimate son.
Now
rancher Tate Rawlins takes the place of his half-brother in an effort to protect his unconventional
family from scandal, hoping to convince Natalie to abandon her expose. Natalie's contract to write
the biography stipulates that she secures the cooperation of the every one of the senator's six
ex-wives, nine children, and seven grandchildren. J. T. Rawlings is the only hold out. She must
convince him to cooperate. She already messed up once, loosing her career, her father's respect
and
her self-respect. All destroyed by the person she loved. This is her opportunity to redeem herself.
Now she knows to not care for anyone or anything but the story. However stubborn J. T. Rawlins
proves to be, she vows to be more stubborn. She won't leave until she gets the story. As the more
cool headed of the two brothers, Tate volunteers to handle the reporter while his mother and
half-brother complete previously arranged plans to visit grandparents, especially since their
grandfather was recently injured. Lying about his identity violates his morals, but leaving his
family
exposed to the reporter violates them even more. So when Natalie appears on his doorstep, Tate
isn't prepared for the spark of attraction between them, nor is he prepared for her tenaciousness.
Not
only is he going to hell for lying, he's going to suffer a fierce attraction to her while on earth.
Tate's
questions to Natalie form an interesting introspection in The Truth About Tate. As she searches
for
answers to the senator's past, Natalie learns more about the truth about herself than she does her
subject. It does seem odd that Natalie doesn't catch onto the deception early in the novel as she
examines family pictures, and misses the occasional slip. If Nataie had done her research, and paid
attention to what the senator told her, she should have realizes which J.T. Rawlings is the elder
brother. Even if the Senator didn't have a picture, Tate had been a football star who gave up a
promising career to care for his son. Newspaper photo should have revealed the sham to the
reporter. Despite the thinness of the subterfuge, however, it does make for an intriguing plot.
Recommended.
This Perfect Stranger: Intimate Moments No 1103
Barbara Ankrum
Silhouette Books
300 East 42nd Street, New York, New York, 10017
ISBN 0373271735, $TBA, Mass Market Paperback, 251 pages
Dark overtones and secrets -- Very highly recommended Contemporary Romance
Until he meets Maggie Cortland, Cain MacCallister hasn't wanted anyone in his life since he lost
Annie, which scares the hell out of him. Reckless, dangerous, self-contained, Cain can't seem to
leave the past behind. But Maggie makes him want to forget the hurt of the past, making him
forget
to guard his secrets and his heart. She makes him want things a man like him, he believes, doesn't
deserve. A drifter, he only comes to her ranch because he's hungry, and someone said she might
need help. He doesn't intend to stay; there's no stopping when a man runs from the past and
memories. Maggie considers the secrets that Cain keeps carefully guarded part of a packaged
deal.
She respects his silence, his reticence, his ability to work, and his determination. And while she
knows he can never remain a permanent part of his life, she also accepts the time they share
together. She needs to be married if she wants to save the ranch. A thousand acres isn't too much
to
pay for a six-month marriage, even if it proves to be anything but convenient. Even her dark
foreboding that this stranger could be dangerous for her doesn't dissuade Maggie from her plan.
She
won't let the town bully, Laird Donnelly, get what he's always wanted. Author Barbara Ankrum
brings creative flair to This Perfect Stranger. A number of romances have recently centered
around
men who spent time in prison, but Ankrum boldly creates a hero who justifiably served time for a
crime of passion before his sentence was forgiven. Such strong characterization daringly separates
This Perfect Stranger from the competition. Further, this heroine is no shrinking violent, taking on
dangerous men and a hurtful past as she uncovers the truth behind the threats and her husband's
death. A strongly plotted, memorable read, This Perfect Stranger comes very highly
recommended.
When I Dream of You: Special Edition No 1419
Laurie Paige
Silhouette Books
300 East 42nd Street, New York, New York, 10017
ISBN 0373244193, $TBA, Mass Market Paperback, 248 pages
Treasures of the heart - Highly recommended Contemporary Romance
Kyle Herriot's grandmother used to tell him that one day he'd find his treasure - now he's coming
to
understand that his grandmother was referring to treasures of the heart. But the Windoms and the
Herroits are enemies, and Kyle certainly can't be attracted to Megan. Even as Kyle feels his
morality,
his need to hurry before life passes him by, he still tries to deny his growing attraction for his
neighbor andenemy. Their grandfathers had been enemies. Kyle's not so sure what his father's
relationship was with her mother Bunny. He doesn't suspect his father of infidelity, but there was
something between them the day they died, together on the sailboat. At eleven, he'd seen them
just
before they set out, never to return. Nevertheless, a lot of secrecy had gone into the case. His
mother believed she had been cheated upon. Megan's grandfather had been a proud old man
determined to squelch gossip. Now they are working together, delving into the murky depths of
the
water and the past to bring to light the truth of the day they each lost a parent. Megan has no
memories from before her mother's funeral. Doctors say it's not uncommon for trauma to interfere
with memory, but she still longs to know what's been left in the mist of the past. Nightmares serve
as
a constant reminder of the loss of her mother in the mysterious accident. And to now desire the
enemy seems like a betrayal of her family and all she holds dear. Carefully portrayed tumultuous
feelings, torn between loyalty to family and needs of the heart, lend Laurie Paige's When I Dream
Of
You deep characterizations. As these wounded people find their way toward redemption, the
challenges they face draw them together in an abiding love. Unable to deny their feelings, the past,
or themselves, they learn lessons of self-acceptance and forgiveness, making When I Dream Of
You
a touching tale. An excellent conclusion to a terrific series, When I Dream Of You is highly
recommended.
Some Kind of Incredible: Silhouette Desire, 1395
Katherine Garbera
Silhouette Books
300 East 42nd Street, New York, New York, 10017
ISBN 0373763956, $TBA, Mass Market Paperback, 184 pages
Two years ago, Nicholas Caden's wife died from cancer. Their relationship had never contained
the
kind of passion that curled his toes anyway, so his vow to never marry again seems logical. Nick
throws himself into his work, instead, devoting long hours to making Colette, Inc. a success. But
now the company risks a hostile takeover, and he risks unemployment. Suddenly the only thing in
his
world that feels solid is his administrative assistant Lila Maxwell. Even if he's not a forever kind of
guy, Lila offers life, and he wants to share it, if only for a while. Lila left behind sunny Florida for
Indiana for a chance to start over, without rumor dogging her every move. She has a wonderful
apartment at Amber Court, a job she loves, and a boss to die for. But when Nick suddenly begins
to
look at her as if she's a scrumptious dessert, and her job is threatened by the take over, life
becomes
very unstable. A steamy encounter of Nick's desk leaves her reeling with emotional intensity of
their
lovemaking and a possible pregnancy. Now she wants to be the one to teach him to trust his heart.
But the question remains as to the damage she may receive to her own heart. I admit to being a
bit
torn about reviewing Some Kind Of Incredible, simply because this is the era of political
correctness.
Most corporations forbid relationships between a VP and his administrative assistant simply
because
he's the boss and holds unfair advantage over his employee. Fears of sexual harassment lawsuits
rule
our era. Indeed, at one point the hero briefly entertains and rejects the impulse to fire his admin
simply to make his life simpler after he's incurred incredible emotional complications.
Furthermore,
the heroine worries throughout the book about her reputation if anyone learns she's dating the
boss.
Nevertheless, this is the substance of genre fiction, and fantasy shouldn't be ruled out because it is
politically incorrect. And author Katherine Garbera is a master of the forbidden encounter on
company property, as she demonstrates in SomeKind Of Incredible. Highly recommended.
The Woman for Dusty Conrad: Intimate Moments No 1427
Tori Carrington
Silhouette Books
300 East 42nd Street, New York, New York, 10017
ISBN 0373244274, $TBA, Mass Market Paperback, 250 pages
Sharp edged and vividly realized -- Very highly recommended Contemporary Romance
One moment firefighter Dusty Conrad and his brother are scaling a set of stairs, seeking out a fire,
his brother quizzing him about the flash point of pair of the socks. Then a careless, stupid mistake,
a
back draft, his brother dies, and paramedics whisk wife Jolie to the hospital with third degree
burns.
Dusty resigns from the department, and asks Jolie to resign as well. He can't attend another
funeral
of a loved one, especially when she purposely places herself in danger. She refuses. So Dusty
walks
away from the tie that bound him to the woman he loves, but threatened to choke him in the end.
Six
months later Dusty returns to Old Orchard because Jolie hasn't signed the divorce decree. It's
supposed to be a quick process. Quietly slip into town, pick up the papers, and quietly slip away.
Then everyone greets him as if he'd only been gone a day. Worse, his hot reaction at seeing Jolie
reminds him of everything he's lost. And he sees his brother's widow; bringing to mind the pain he
wants to leave behind. He can't compete with the adrenaline rush of fighting fires, or the
emotional
risk of loosing another to that vicious red monster. Surely with him gone, Jolie would be relieved
to
be able to live, as she wanted without someone questioning what she was doing. Tori Carrington
creates powerful conflict in The Woman For Dusty Conrad. In a marvelous reversal of traditional
roles, where men ordinarily risk their lives and women wait helplessly at home, Carrington creates
a
loving couple that risk their lives together on the job. It's the man who has second thoughts,
survivor's guilt, and the inability to maintain such a risky lifestyle. Jolie never backs away from the
job she loves and the responsibility she's accepted in her small town. Even her eventual
compromise
doesn't lessen her power or responsibility. Further, Carrington captures the sharp edge of emotion
held in check, maintaining a careful tension throughout the novel as these characters battle the
blazing inferno of their hearts as well as life and deah issues. Once again Carrington demonstrates
a
remarkable ability to seamlessly blend the male and female points of view in a powerful narrative
that never backs away from either's emotions. Indeed, this writing team has become a master of
vividly capturing fierce emotion. Very highly recommended.
The Marriage Conspiracy: Special Edition No 1423
Christine Rimmer
Silhouette Books
300 East 42nd Street, New York, New York, 10017
ISBN 0373244231, $TBA, Mass Market Paperback, 249 pages
An intensive read -- Highly recommended Contemporary Romance
The Atwoods have too much money and too much power, which corrupted their only son. Joleen
believed Bobby's silken lies until he'd wanted nothing to do with his child, abandoning Joleen
when
she learned of her pregnancy. Now her son Sam is eighteen months old. Six weeks ago Bobby
died
in a power skiing accident. In spite of the past, she'd contacted his parents to tell them that they
have
a grandson. Their response is to offer her money for custody. When Joleen refuses, they threaten
court, counting on political favors to win them the child. Dekker recently learned that he's the
Bravo's missing heir. Now a millionaire, he immediately steps in to help Joleen when he learns of
the
Atwood's threats. The stability of marriage and the money to hire the best lawyers should protect
the
child. He warns Joleen, however, that he's emotionally dead when it "comes to man-woman love."
A
bitter marriage with a woman who couldn't be satisfied and eventually left him widowed resulted
in
becoming absolutely numb. The only woman Dekker lets close to him is his beloved childhood
friend
Joleen. She's always touched the parts of him he keeps silent, hearing the things he can't always
articulate. Joleen's feelings move from tender goodwill to defensiveness when their act of their
marriage, and a couple of kisses, awaken a powerful yearning. In her mother's words, she wants
magic, passion, and excitement. And she wants it with Dekker. When he said that neither of them
were in the market for a grand passion, or possibly ever would be, she didn't want to confess that
she wants the passion he believes impossible. Christine Rimmer's special talent for creating
emotional vulnerable characters once again sparkles in The Marriage Conspiracy. These are
imperfect, believable people struggling with their feelings and the past. Secondary characters,
even
those only sketched at the wedding, for example, also shimmer with plausibility and humor. With
a
heart stopping threat regarding custody, as well as healing old wounds, The Marriage Conspirac
results in intensive read that comes highly recommended.
Heart Of A Hero: Intimate Moments No 1105
Marie Ferrarella
Silhouette Books
300 East 42nd Street, New York, New York, 10017
ISBN 0373271751, $TBA, Mass Market Paperback, 251 pages
Trust is a difficult thing to learn -- Highly recommended Contemporary Romance
Her heart is carefully protected as her child, but that's not enough when a kidnapper takes former
Las Vegas showgirl Dakota Armstrong's two-year-old son. Dakota believes the child's
grandfather, a
man of dangerous connections and unfathomable power, has stolen her son. Now Dakota must
learn
to trust again if she wants him back. Indeed, only the heart of a hero will be enough to earn her
trust,
or her love. Russell Andreini of ChildFinders, Inc. believes in miracles. In fact, he's made a career
out of making miracles happen. ChildFinders, Inc. has never failed to find a missing child, no
matter
what it takes, or what the parent can afford for their services. So when a scream in the night leads
Rusty to the apartment beneath his where he finds a stunned mother, he rushes to her assistance.
Never mind she fears anyone's help. To help Dakota find her son, first Rusty must earn her trust,
and
extract her carefully guarded secrets. Author Marie Ferrarella creates a powerful story of trust,
healing, and love in Heart Of A Hero. These are passionate, believable characters bound by a
common quest. Rusty's enormous, generous heart reaches beyond Dakota's carefully constructed
walls, teaching her to trust without once undermining her hard won strength. With a marvelous
plot
with a surprising twist at the end, readers won't be able to put it down. Highly recommended.
Promises, Promises: Intimate Moments No 1109
Shelley Cooper
Silhouette Books
300 East 42nd Street, New York, New York, 10017
ISBN 0373271794, $TBA, Mass Market Paperback, 251 pages
Three months after her best friend died, Gretchen Montgomery received a tape made by Jill. On
the
tape, Jill extracts three promises: take the money Jill left her out of the safe money market
account
and spend it on frivolities; enter a piano competition; have a wild, crazy affair. So Ms. Practicality
CPA finds herself embarking on a new life style. New clothes, new cosmetics and a new sports car
lead her to propositioning the sexy doctor next door. Too bad he flat turns her down. Dr. Marco
Garibaldi likewise always honors his promises. He's seen the strain being a doctor place on a
family
life. So he's made a couple of promises to himself: never loose touch with the human side of his
job;
never marry. When he weakens on his promise, he thinks of his best friend and the struggles he
and
his wife face. Ironically, his best friend convinces him to baby sit his seven month old so he and
his
wife can take the weekend for time together to hopefully save their marriage. Marco's inadequate
baby skills lead to Gretchen's assistance and his change of heart regarding an affair. What
Promises,
Promises lacks in substance, it compensates with frivolity. This delightfully pleasant read results in
first-rate escape fiction. As promises draw Gretchen and Marco into experiencing life and learning
to
risk their hearts. As this couple struggles with the stress every couple faces, they do so with pain,
with humor, and with grace. These appealing characters result in a delightful afternoon's read.
Promises, Promises comes recommended.
Her Boss's Baby: Silhouette Desire No 1396
Cathleen Galitz
Silhouette Books
300 East 42nd Street, New York, New York, 10017
ISBN 0373763964, $TBA, Mass Market Paperback, 184 pages
From misfortune to joy - Highly recommended Contemporary Romance
With a childhood plagued with emotional abuse and guilt, Jonas Goodfellow distances himself
emotionally from the women in his life. He was an illegitimate child, the cause of his mother's
disastrous marriage to his cruel stepfather. Yet somewhere beneath the pain, the desire for a
family
must still lurk, because when he was established as one of the missing Fortune heirs, he couldn't
resist the impulse to meet his estranged family. Unfortunately, someone tampered with the bottle
of
wine he brought along to celebrate, and he landed in prison, accused of attempted murder. Tara
Summers remembers all too clearly the night five years ago when Jonas bailed her out of jail. She
never expected to return the favor. But when word came of the disastrous reunion, she
immediately
rushes to his aid, in addition to orchestrating the necessary arrangements for him to continue his
business while confined to Texas. Tara's determined to use the opportunity of sharing a hotel suit
to
make Jonas see beyond the twelve years that separates them. She's grown up and she wants him.
It's
too bad that when Tara gets him to bed, she also gets a pregnancy and a man who fears
commitment. Author Cathleen Galitz continues The Fortunes of Texas miniseries with Her Boss's
Baby. The characterizations are a delightful contrast. Tara is a lovely combination of youthful
exuberance and mature wisdom. Jonas is a damaged man, who must grow beyond the belief that
the
word family is synonymous with the word viper. Indeed, emotions rule this tightly crafted plot,
resulting in a novel that is at once intense and beguiling. Her Boss's Baby comes highly
recommended.
Hard to Handle: Intimate Moments No 1108
Kylie Brant
Silhouette Books
300 East 42nd Street, New York, New York, 10017
ISBN 0373271786, $TBA, Mass Market Paperback, 250 pages
The light and shadow of emotion -- Highly recommended Contemporary Romance
Meghan Patterson represents the exact kind of trouble Detective Gabe Conally tries to avoid with
secrets in her eyes and lies on her lips. His fascination is purely business, of course, since her
nephew
is a valuable witness. Never mind the first kiss backfires, failing to prove there isn't any attraction
between them. Few women elicit an emotion response him, beyond the obvious, but Meghan
touches parts of him that he has never shared with anyone. Soon he finds himself offering to
investigate the case involving Meghan's sister, despite the fact that the case is closed, in exchange
of
her nephew Danny's assistance in an ongoing investigation. Meghan believes the Chicago police
are
responsible for her sister's death and will do anything to protect Danny from the same fate. Her
sister
had been telepathic, a gift she'd passed to her son. Further, Meghan guards her hard won privacy
carefully. Gabe's presence brings her pain, anger, and regret too close to the surface. She finds his
intensity unnerving even as she fights her growing desire for this irritating, persistent man. Her
sister's death appears to be tied to another case Gabe's working, and Meghan finds herself drawn
into Gabe's world despite her protestations. Kylie Brant brings two cynics who believe the only
person they can trust is himself or herself together in Hard To Handle. While he was a juvenile
delinquent and she was from a wealthy family, they both know the meaning of pain and betrayal.
The
growth of these characters as they begin the difficult job of exposing vulnerabilities and risking
further hurt makes them endearing and believable. Further, outrageous, sizzling heat always
threatens just beneath the surface to erupt in tumultuous passion, refusing to allow them to simply
walk away. In addition, the inclusion of a five-year-old telepath lends Hard To Handle an addition
challenge, resulting in a vividly unique read. Very highly recommended.
Fortune's Secret Daughter: Silhouette Desire No 1390
Barbara McCauley
Silhouette Books
300 East 42nd Street, New York, New York, 10017
ISBN 0373763905, $TBA, Mass Market Paperback, 186 pages
Lively and entertaining -- highly recommended Contemporary Romance
Pilot Guy Blackwolf will brave even the most miserable storm in the wilderness of Alaska to fulfill
a
favor. But it turns out to be Holly Douglas who performs a rescue, pulling his from his downed
plane before he can drown. He'd come to Alaska to change her life, and she saves his instead.
When
she learns why he's there, however, she may just take him right back out to Twin Pines Lake and
drown him after all. Holly takes Guy home with her because there's no place else for him to stay.
The cozy apartment offers her refuge from the small town, trailer park existence she left behind in
Texas. Here no one judges her, or sets impossible standards. Therefore, she doesn't welcome
Guy's
news, when he finally reveals it, that he's there to find a missing heiress. She'd prefer to go right
on
missing. This fiercely independent doesn't take well to most women's fantasy come true of rags to
riches in Fortune's Secret Daughter. With a determination to create a life on her own terms, this
fiery
woman meets her match in this sexy hero that also equals most women's fantasies. With a fun, fast
paced plot and excellent characterizations, Fortune's Secret Daughter is a fun addition to this
miniseries. Highly recommended.
Fugitive Hearts: Intimate Moments No 1101
Ingrid Weaver
Silhouette Books
300 East 42nd Street, New York, New York, 10017
ISBN 0373271719, $TBA, Mass Market Paperback, 248 pages
A very pleasant read -- recommended Contemporary Romance
Children's book author Dana Whittington wouldn't have found him if the wood box hadn't been
getting empty. On her porch, covered with snow, was a man that she pulled into her remote cabin
before he could quite freeze to death. With the phones out and roads closed, she's alone with this
stranger. Pushing aside proprieties, she strips him and gets his unconscious body warm, realizing
that he looks like an old fashioned desperado. As they come to know one another, Dana's
impressed
by his obvious love of his daughter. She's terribly shocked to later learn she'd harbored a fugitive
who had been serving a life sentence. Seven months of helpless, frustrated anger characterizes his
life. Remy Leverette is not a murderer, despite what they say. Friends have turned their backs on
him, so he doesn't dare trust the truth to a stranger. He can't forget the sight of his wife on the
bedroom carpet as if she had passed out again; then he smelled the copper scent of blood. He
worries that his daughter would grow up as he had, always trying to atone for his father's sins.
But
he refuses to leave a legacy of shame for his daughter; instead, he's determined to prove his
innocence. With no where else to go in the frigid Canadian winter, Remy returns to the resort
where
Dana works on her books, slipping into the main building and hoping to conceal his presence.
When
she discovers Remy, Dana cannot bring herself to betray the man who thinks so much of his
daughter, or even her own heart. The honest, down-to-earth warmth and motivations of the
characters in Fugitive Hearts by Ingrid Weaver results in a very pleasant read. Although the plot is
markedly predictable, the quality and depth of characterizations can't help but touch the heart.
Even
the cat Mortimeter, who stars in Dana's children's books, makes his presence delightfully known
through the narrative, as he tolerates the antics of his humans with grace. Recommended.
Dateline Matrimony: Special Edition No 1424
Gina Wilkins
Silhouette Books
300 East 42nd Street, New York, New York, 10017
ISBN 037324424X, $TBA, Mass Market Paperback, 251 pages
Teresa Scott is a waitress at the Rainbow Caf‚ in a small, Arkansas town where she meets Riley
O'Neil. He's a reporter who enjoys disconcerting people with off-the-wall comments. She's
cautious
in her interactions with Riley because he doesn't need any encouragement from a woman who
doesn't date. She insists that she finds his teasing more annoying than amusing, despite her
attraction
to the reporter. When Teresa realizes that he's already chummy with her children, she can't help
wondering how that ever happened. Especially with a guy who claims to not like children. Fear of
rejection keeps Riley from submitting one of the fantasy novels he's written to a publisher. That
same fear has always kept him from issuing invitations to women he knows will be accepted. So
now
he wonders why he finds himself pursuing a woman who consistently declines. Especially when he
learns she has children. And especially when he has no intention of every marrying. Worse, he
even
rents her the duplex next door, insuring that they see one another frequently, and resulting in
intimacies he didn't quite predict. Author Gina Wilkins offers a terrific conclusion to her miniseries
Hot Off the Press. Dateline Matrimony concludes the underlying secondary plot while never
taking
the emphasis from the burgeoning romance between Riley and Teresa. Riley's an unlikely hero,
not
necessarily because he's forsworn marriage or dating a woman with children, but because he's
mouthy, irritating, and won't take no for an answer while still remaining charming, funny and
honest.
Indeed, Dateline Matrimony's crisp dialogue and fiery characterizations result in a strong read.
Highly recommended.
Cowgirl Be Mine: Special Edition No 1428
Elaine Nichols
Silhouette Books
300 East 42nd Street, New York, New York, 10017
ISBN 0373244282, $TBA, Mass Market Paperback, 250 pages
Mandy Thomson lives in the moment, thriving on fast horses, dangerous bulls and wild parties.
Just
before the gate rises, she looks up to seek Jake. She hasn't seen him in ten years, since she walked
out on him when she was seventeen. Seeing him there momentarily breaks her concentration,
bringing back a flood of memories before Mandy single-mindedly focuses on the most important
ride
of her career. She experiences almost six second of total exhilaration. Then, in less than a second,
the Brahma bull she's riding dies, a ton falling on her legs. In those moments before loosing
consciousness, she relies on Jake as a guardian angel. He is her lifeline until medical help arrived.
Then she doesn't see him again. The following three days Mandy lays comatose, and her mother
signs the consent form for a leg to be amputated below the knee. They were young and in love.
Then
a tragic car accident deprived Jake Miller's father of both legs. Jake accepts full responsibility for
his
family and his family's box company, growing up quickly despite his youth. He trades his college
football scholarship to care for his family. He'd wanted forever with Mandy, but she wanted
excitement, rodeos, parties and fun. She feared being bogged down with the kind of responsibility
Jake faced. Ten years later, Jake has an apartment already equipped for a handicapped person's
needs, and Mandy's brother brings her there to live. He loves her bravado, determination and
brash
words that always cover her fear or insecurity. Neither of them is prepared for the feelings that
return as if the ten years had never been. And as Mandy learns to accept her outward wounds, so
must Jake learn to heal his internal scars. First time author Elaine Nichols pens a strong, deeply
evocative romance in Cowgirl Be Mine. Mandy's an unexpected heroine whose superficial life
must
be stripped away to expose the feelings and desires long hidden. In a genre where heroines are
never
handicapped and frequently adhere to stereotypes, Mandy's fun loving partying lifestyle proides
refreshing verve, especially when she is juxtaposed with a much too serious hero. This remarkable
author bears watching, as Cowgirl Be Mine promises a marvelous future for this author. Highly
recommended.
Cassidy and the Princess: Intimate Moments No 1007
Patricia Potter
Silhouette Books
300 East 42nd Street, New York, New York, 10017
ISBN 0373271778, $TBA, Mass Market Paperback, 248 pages
Seductive, sexy and exciting - Very highly recommended Contemporary Romance
It turns personal when the serial killer's fifth victim miraculously escapes. The killer began with
prostitutes before attacking ice skating champion Marise Merrick. Now nothing will stop him
from
killing her before she can identify "The Rose Killer". Marise determinedly becomes the bait to lure
the killer into the open, but not before his stalking escalates to chilling proportions. Detective
Cassidy MacKay has pursued The Rose Killer for eight months. But budgets don't allow a lot of
resources for a killer who preys on prostitutes in the city of Atlanta. International athletes,
however,
garner a lot more attention. The first moment he meets Marise's eyes, there's an odd flash of
recognition that seems to bind them despite his vows to never give his heart away again. He can't
help being impressed by this strong, gutsy, courageous woman who won't back away from helping
to capture this killer despite the risk to herself. Marise takes great strides toward overcoming long
held guilt when she decides to stay in Atlanta to aid in the apprehension of The Rose Killer. For
the
first time she acts on what she wants; that is, to help capture a killer, and to remain in the
company
of the detective during this frightening time. Unfortunately, her mother and skating partner seems
more concerned with getting her back in competition than with her well-being. Accustomed to
making decisions based on her partner and her mother, her choices sets into motion a whole chain
of
events that lead to independence as she learns to leave the "ifs" behind. She learns to accept that
she
wants more than her partner and mother want. Rather than gold metals and international acclaim,
she'd rather have a family and a home. Author Patricia Potter writes with a dignity and poignant
assurance that touches reader's hearts in Cassidy And The Princess. Juxtaposing the glittering
success of an ice princess with the dark, brooding detective, Potter creates a tale of opposites
who
come to share the same goal. While the underlying plot, to capture the seial killer, binds the pieces
of
this story together, it never overshadows the richly presented love story. Secondary characters are
also marvelously presented, resulting in a multifaceted tale of riveting proportions. Very highly
recommended.
Born Brave: Intimate Moments No 1106
Ruth Wind
Silhouette Books
300 East 42nd Street, New York, New York, 10017
ISBN 037327176X, $TBA, Mass Market Paperback, 251 pages
Recommended with reservations: Contemporary Romance
She can fight; she can shoot; she can walk like a princess. So when Laurie Lewis lands the
opportunity to impersonate the beloved Montebellan princess, she feels prepared for the terrorists'
plot of kidnapping. She's not quite so prepared to handle her bodyguard. All her life Laurie has
fought to be taken seriously. When bodyguard ex-cop Hawk Stone underestimates her abilities,
she
proves her point. But she can't deny the passion his green eyes ignite. Wounded by tragic losses,
Hawk had retreated to the desert to nurse his wounds until his father convinces him to accept this
assignment. They plan to set a trap for the terrorists, using Laurie as bait as she travel across the
United States impersonating the Montebellan princess on a publicity tour. Hawk believes Laurie
to
be too young and too naive to handle this dangerous assignment. But since she's a dead ringer for
the princess, and well versed in all the areas of intelligence that would effect this assignment.
Now,
despite his efforts to keep their relationship strictly business, Hawk finds his imagination captured
by
this sultry seductress turned princess. I was forced to suspend my disbelief on several points in
order
to enjoy this romance. First, the premise of Born Brave strikes me as a bit odd, because I have
difficulty imagining the FBI hiring an ex-cop, regardless of whose son he is, to guard an FBI
agent.
Second, our heroine wears divine designer clothing that reveals her figure to perfection, but she
impersonates a woman who is pregnant. Despite these misgivings, however, Born Brave does
bring
together some wonderful fantasy elements. A man of Native American descent with green eyes
certainly lights my fire. In addition, this heroine gives as well as she takes, demonstrating physical
strength as well as intelligence. Therefore, Born Brave comes recommended.
Gideon's Baby: Superromance No 1022
K. N. Casper
Harlequin Retail Inc
PO Box 1325, Buffalo, NY 14269
ISBN 0373710224, $TBA, Mass Market Paperback, 297 pages
Remarkable! Very highly recommended Contemporary Romance
It's a guy thing. Men do not willing offer information to women than can feasibly lead to an
emotional encounter; that is, until circumstances compel them to do so. Guys simply prefer logic
to
messy emotional encounters. So when Gideon First learns of his former girl friend's will,
indicating
that he's the father of her baby, his first reaction is logical. They always used condoms; the last
time
he saw her she would have been two months pregnant and didn't tell him; consequently, the baby
cannot be his. Further, he's now engaged to a woman who believes sex should be saved for
marriage. While she knows of his past, she's never been confronted by it. Consequently, it's best to
protect her delicate sensibilities, and not explain about his possible paternity. It's a girl thing.
Women
want the whole truth, including anything that was omitted to prevent a messy emotional response.
Unlike men, they do not fear their emotions nor do they consider emotions a barrier to working
toward a reasonable, logical solution. Lupe Amorado feels betrayed because Gideon was not
forthright regarding his daughter. Lies by omission are still lies. Worse, Gideon's logical
evaluation
of the situation, especially when he considers allow the child's grandparents to adopt her, is
abhorrent. Such logical thinking leaves Lupe questioning the morals and values of the man she
wanted to marry. Her feelings of betray lead to her decision to give back his engagement ring.
Once
again K.N. Casper boldly tackles some of the most delicate of human relationships in Gideon's
Baby.
With his unique story telling ability, Casper captures the heart of the differences in how men and
women both think and communicate. Indeed, he captures the most basic elements of femininity
and
masculinity and exploits those differences, creating tension and passion in equal measure. A
remarkable achievement, and a memorable story, Gideon's Baby comes very highly
recommended.
A Hero to Hold: Intimate Moments No 1102
Linda Castillo
Silhouette Books
300 East 42nd Street, New York, New York, 10017
ISBN 0373271727, $TBA, Mass Market Paperback, 185 pages
She needs a hero - Very highly recommended Contemporary Romance
Search and rescue medic John Maitland found her clad in nothing more than street cloths at nine
thousand feet in January. A cross-country skier had spotted her, resulting in a call to the Rocky
Mountain Search and Rescue team. When she pulls a gun on him, John reminds himself that
hypothermia can cause mental confusion. He doesn't yet see the bruises on her arms - or around
her
neck. When the redhead wakes in the hospital, she suffers from amnesia. A scrap of paper in her
pocket provides her only identification, Hannah. While she might not recall her name, family, or
that
she's pregnant, Hannah does recall a sense of danger. A fact confirmed when she's dismissed from
the hospital to go to a shelter. As John drives her there, an SUV tries to run them off the road at a
curve over a dangerous ravine. Hannah must discover her identity and the father of her baby.
Somewhere in her forgotten past lurks the key to life - or death. By the time John realizes the
extent
of the danger to himself in his association with the mysterious redhead, both physically and
emotionally, he's in over his head. She effortlessly touches a part of him he's held isolated for
thirteen years. Linda Castillo's Hero To Hold earned a well-deserved Romantic Times TOP PICK
award. With fast paced action and complex characterization, Hero To Hold will hold the reader
riveted. Courageous and heroic, John Maitland fills every woman's desire for a hero. The perfect
blend of romance and danger once again demonstrates this masterful storyteller's skill. Very highly
recommended.
The C.E.O. & the Secret Heiress: American Romance No 895
Mary Anne Wilson
Harlequin Retail Inc
PO Box 1325, Buffalo, NY 14269
ISBN 0373168950, $TBA, Mass Market Paperback, 250 pages
A charming tale -- Highly recommended Contemporary Romance
Three weeks before her planned New Year's Eve wedding, heiress Brittany Lewis cancels when
she
suddenly realizes she's not in love. She knows the repercussions of her decision will explode all
around her. It is, after all, the third engagement she's ended in four years. She doesn't, however,
expect her father's ultimatum. She must join her father's company for six months, showing up at
nine
and going home at six. She's going to face the challenge of business and give her life a worthwhile
direction. Brittany faces an unexpected challenge when she arrives for her first meeting of the
boss.
A fortuitous open door and happenstance leads to an opportunity to use her skills to redecorate
the
JUST For Kids day-care center instead of inhabiting some stuffy office. A little quick thinking and
Brittany Lewis becomes B.J. Smythe the artist. Now she can prove her skills and her values on
her
own terms, before revealing her true identity and blowing stuffy C.E. O. Matt Terrell's opinions of
Brittany Lewis out of the water. B.J.'s exhilaration quickly gives way to apprehension, however,
as
she grows emotionally involved with Matt. He's not going to tolerate the dishonesty of her
charade.
But with the unveiling of the child care center slated for Christmas Eve, B.J. believes she can
maintain the illusion of her identity long enough to really make a difference for the company and
for
herself. As her presence begins to fill the spaces in Matt's world that he hadn't known existed,
Matt
finds himself drawn into the magic B.J. creates. But issues of trust reach into a painful past for
Matt,
and B.J.'s apprehension is well founded. The premise of The C.E.O. & The Heiress, while not
unusual in genre fiction, is carried off with great flair. Author Mary Anne Wilson offers a
surprisingly convincing plot that provides this spoiled heiress direction and growth. As Brittany
puts
her creative skills to use, she also finds she's proving her value not only to Matt and her father, but
most importantly to herself. As Matt's misconceptions ad prejudices are challenges, the reader
can't
resist being drawn into the story and rooting not only for the successful romance between Brittany
and Matt, but also successful end for a spunky youngster that keeps the story from becoming too
predictable. Highly recommended.
Wife by Deception: Harlequin Superromance No. 1017
Donna Sterling
Harlequin Retail Inc
PO Box 1325, Buffalo, NY 14269
ISBN 0373710178, $TBA, Mass Market Paperback, 299 pages
Exhilarating -- Very highly recommended Contemporary Romance
Camryn lives for fun and thrills. While motherhood proved to be far more difficult than she
anticipates, Camryn believes her baby Arianna is just the ticket to stardom. Arianna just might be
the
gimmick she'd always needed to break into show business big time. After all, everyone says that
soap opera produces would take just one look at a picture of her with the baby and write them
into a
script as mother and daughter. But after dropping the baby off at her identical twin's home,
Camryn's
dreams go up in a conflagration when she crosses the centerline. Doctor Kate Jones was always
the
responsible one of the twins, even when they were growing up in the Methodist Children's Home.
She shudders to think that her beloved niece could fall victim to that same system. Determined to
raise the child rather than allow her to be shuffled around between foster homes or dumped in an
orphanage, it takes Kate six months to gain enough courage to even consult her lawyer. She
hesitates to contact the father, whom she's only heard of by first name, because Camryn said that
Mitch never wanted the child. Although Mitch has joint custody and is searching for his daughter,
he
doesn't know his wife is dead. Mitch eventually tracks Camryn to Kate's home and shocks Kate
with
his arrival. Panicked at her weak legal position, Kate allows Mitch to believe she is her twin. Her
reticence to reveal her true identity results in Mitch kidnapping her. Until she can be certain that
he's
not the dangerous man her sister described, Kate will do anything to protect the baby.
Fortunately,
Camryn never told her husband that she had a twin. But Mitch is not the violent man Camryn
painted him to be. Instead, he loves his child and desperately wants to build a life with her.
Further,
Mitch can't help the incredible attraction he feels for Kate. It's only a matter of time before he
realizes the "changes" in his wife aren't changes at all, but something altogether different. Author
Donna Sterling creates a marvelous conundrum in Wife By Deception. Sterlin writes with a lilting
grace, deftly weaving elements into a tapestry of emotions and deception. Wife By Deception
skillfully captures the fear of the loss of custody of a child for either parent. Further, the beauty of
the ocean, the flavor of Cajun cooking, and the Louisiana bayou life is vividly realized, making
Wife
By Deception a zesty treat. Very highly recommended.
The Biological Bond: American Romance No 892
Jamie Denton
Harlequin
PO Box 1325, Buffalo, NY 14269
ISBN 0373168926, $TBA, Mass Market Paperback, 200 pages
Dreams do come true -- Very highly recommended Contemporary Romance
Fourteen years ago lawyer Rebecca Martinson unwilling placed her child for adoption. She's never
forgotten that haunting first cry of life and the child she never held. Now in family practice, she
buries her past in a successful career based on helping families in need. Until one shocking day,
that
is, when Sam Winslow enters her office and declares himself the father of a dying daughter in
need
of her biological mother's bone marrow. Desperate to save his daughter, Sam had the court
records
opened so he could track down his daughter Melanie's birth mother. Now he faces the adult
version
of his beloved daughter complete with unexpected and unwanted attraction. When Rebecca
demands
a month to meet and get to know her daughter, Sam capitulates with the understanding that
afterward she will walk away, and Melanie will never know the visitor was her birth mother. Both
Rebecca and Sam know the risk heartbreak by allowing Melanie to meet her mother. They don't
realize that they also risk heartbreak by spending time together. Rebecca's family are judges and
doctors; Sam owns a farm. Rebecca has a successful career and Sam doesn't see how she could
ever
trade her power suits for an apron. With all their differences, however, they share a daughter they
both love. The Biological Bond delivers an unexpected love story with tender empathy. Indeed,
author Jamie Denton's flair for creating believable characters and a bond that go beyond blood
result
in a memorable, beautiful tale. As the biological mother, adoptive father and beloved daughter
each
reveal their innermost fears, the reader's heart can't resist a flush of understanding. Further, the
unique family environment, rich characterization, and revelation of secrets keeps the pages
turning.
The Biological Bond comes very highly recommended.
The Driven Snowe: Blaze No 14
Cathy Yardley
Harlequin Retail Inc.
PO Box 1325, Buffalo, NY 14269
ISBN 037379018X, $4.50, Mass Market Paperback, 216 pages
A new twist on romance! -- Very highly recommended Contemporary Romance
They agree from the beginning that they will share a sexual arrangement, not a relationship. Yet
sexy
corporate tycoon Josh Montgomery finds himself in the town's library seeking an old yearbook,
scanning for Angela's name when she leaves his bed without a word, a note, or a phone number.
Accustomed to being pursued, Josh finds the reversal attractive, if unnerving. The crumbs she
tosses
about herself and her past only whet his appetite, leaving him hungering for more, despite his
efforts
to draw Angela out. He does, however, manage to extract a commitment to six months of mind
altering, fantastic sex. Librarian Angela Snowe is twenty-nine and a virgin when she propositions
Josh. She only knew him by his sizzling reputation and glimpses from a distance. But his
reputation
promises exactly what she needs - a night of passion with no commitment. She'd read the books
and
knew what to expect from initiating a relationship based on sex. When he tracks her down, it
takes
some persuasion to convince Angela to work him in between her new classes and new busy social
calendar. After all, she focused on personal growth, not starting a relationship. Worse, while he's
providing charm and romance -- she really just wants him between the sheets. Author Cathy
Yardley
gleefully switches traditional sex roles in The Driven Snow. While the sexy hero wonders how he
became the woman in the relationship, Angela brightly breezes out the door maintaining the light
hearted approach they agreed upon, leaving the reader in stitches. Josh is accustomed to being in
control, and this relationship novice lifts that control right out of his hands. In addition, kudos for
making a food processor romantic - this reviewer didn't think it could be done! Indeed, The
Driven
Snow is one of those rare romances that is both fiery passionate and tenderly endearing. Smart
dialogue and heated love scenes live up to high expectations in this Blaze release. Readers won't
be
able to put it down! Very highly recommended.
The Word of a Child: Harlequin Superromance No 1009
Janice Kay Johnson
Harlequin Retail Inc
PO Box 1325, Buffalo, NY 14269
ISBN 0373710097, $TBA, Mass Market Paperback, 297 pages
It could happen to anyone - Very highly recommended Contemporary Romance
Detective Connor McLean caused more emotional turmoil for her than any one else in her life
ever
had. When he and a social worker unexpectedly knock at Mariah Stavig's door, accusing her
husband of raping a small child, the doubts the detective left in his wake ended Mariah's marriage.
The small child's words forever destroyed Mariah's belief in her husband. Without proof, the case
was dropped. Following their divorce, Mariah cannot prevent her ex-husband exercising of his
visitation rights. Although her daughter never exhibits any signs of abuse, Mariah remains
emotionally torn even three years later. On one hand, she fears the detective was right and her
daughter's in danger. On the other hand, she fears the detective was wrong, and she betrayed her
husband. When a student confines her sexual abuse as the hands of a fellow teacher, Mariah must
fulfill her legal obligation to report the incident. Unfortunately, Detective McLean is assigned to
the
case, bringing back all those terrible days of fear and betrayal. As they work together to help the
student, Mariah finds herself inexplicably drawn to the man she's blamed for the end of her
marriage.
Connor likewise feels many misgivings; even as he's drawn to Mariah, he also feels guilty. He's
come
to feel as though it's his role in life to destroy families, and he's beginning to consider making
far-reaching career changes. Such deep self-evaluation makes completing his assigned task even
more complicated. Worse, while he believes the student's been raped, he doesn't believe she's
truthfully identified the perpetrator. Author Janice Kay Johnson takes on a hard-hitting plot with
grace in The World Of A Child. Never backing away form the most difficult and painful aspects of
her plot, she also approaches the topic of childhood rape with sensitivity and insight. While a
strange
background to create for a love story, this subject with all its different aspects successfully
furthers
the plot, deepens the characterizations, and leaves the romance lover richly satisfied. hese are
believable characters that demonstrate admirable growth and sensitivity. Remarkable in scope,
beautifully realized with plot and characterizations, The World Of A Child comes very highly
recommended.
Uninhibited: Harlequin Blaze No 7
Candace Schuler
Harlequin Retail Inc
PO Box 1325, Buffalo, NY 14269
ISBN 0373790112, $4.50, Mass Market Paperback, 251 pages
Wonderful love story -- Highly recommended Contemporary Romance
One of Boston's most eligible bachelors Reed Sullivan has grown accustomed to his
great-grandmother Moira Sullivan's perchance for matchmaking. So when he arrives in the
drawing
room for tea, Reed expects another matchmaking attempt, not a business pitch. He's also
accustomed to commanding the respect and desire of marriage minded females, so Zoe's brazen
outspokenness takes him aback. Worse, Zoe's lushness inspires lascivious fantasies when he
should
be concentrating on business. Zoe knows that Reed's impeccable manners and perfect self-control
conceal his suspicious disapproval, which he later articulates, calling Zoe a greedy,
money-grubbing
mercenary. As an honest business entrepreneur, Zoe finds herself incredibly insulted that Reed
accuses of her of brazenly trying to bilk an old woman out of her money. As a woman, she's
stunned
when her gypsy sexiness doesn't gain his favor. Her looks usually give her an edge in dealing with
men, and Reed's reticence proves frustrating. Uninhibited contains the substance and dazzle of a
great love story. Unfortunately, it lacks the eroticism that readers expect from this line, providing
thrill and tease, but not delivering until the end. Nevertheless, scorching looks and brooding
passion
underscores the sensuality of the narrative, providing it an intense sexiness - who knew marble
playing could be sexy? In addition, Zoe's multifaceted personality delightfully proves that a
woman
can be sensual, tempting, and innocent all at the same time. Further, the secondary characters of
the
story add an additional depth and verve that makes their reviewer hoping Zoe's best friend gets
her
own story. Highly recommended.
Treat Her Right: Temptation No 852
Lori Foster
Harlequin Retail Inc
PO Box 1325, Buffalo, NY 14269
ISBN 0373259514, $TBA, Mass Market Paperback, 217 pages
Not your ordinary heroine -- Very highly recommended Contemporary Romance
Paramedic Zach Grange knows what he needs in a wife and in a mother to his four-year-old
daughter Dani. His brash new neighbor, Wynn Lane does not meet his expectations in any way.
He
needs a quiet, unassuming, domestic, soft spoken woman that does all those frilly, frippery female
things Dani's going to need. Wynn is outrageous, outspoken, and, as his neighbor, out of limits.
Only
an inch short of his six feet, she speaks before she thinks, acts before she considers the
consequences, and presents herself as one of the guys, except that her sloppy sexy clothes and
glimpses of skin drive him wild. Never has he known a woman like Wynn, and Zach hasn't a clue
what to do with her. Wynn boldly admires Zach, never making any secret of her desire. Indeed,
the
first day they meet he catches her audaciously checking out his crotch the way most guys check
out
a woman. She looks at him with tenderness, humor and hunger, and makes no moves to conceal
her
attraction. Further, Zach made her heart boil the minute she spied him. Worse, when she watched
him tenderly brush his daughter's hair and put it up in a pony tale, she was irretrievable hooked.
She's never felt this way before, preferring to hang out with the guys rather than dating them. She
doesn't see a problem with their living across the street from one another, but she does know she's
not a petite beauty like Zach's first wife. Hammocks and hot tubs make for sexy, fun encounters in
Lori Foster's Treat Her Right. Wynn's Amazon woman appearance defies stereotypes, and her
impetuous, out spoken honesty makes a mockery of ordinary courtship games. Sizzling emotions
and stunning encounters in addition to creative characterizations, including Wynn's equally
extreme
parents, make for a marvelous reading experience. Treat Her Right is destined for the keeper
shelf.
Very highly recommended.
The Mighty Quinns: Dylan: Temptation No 851
Kate Hoffmann
Harlequin Retail Inc
PO Box 1325, Buffalo, NY 14269
Contemporary Romance
ISBN 0373259514, $TBA, Mass Market Paperback, 217 pages
A pleasant read -- Recommended
Firefighter Dylan Quinn has a gift for charming women. In fact, fellow firefighters tease him about
all the jackets he's left behind to provide an excuse to get together with the recipient later. Then
he
lends his jacket to the sexy Meggie Flanagan, a childhood friend, and swears off leaving any more
jackets behind. He's found the woman who makes him want to reach beyond easy charisma and
share a whole lot more. Meggie never forgave Dylan for her humiliation at the Sophomore Frolic
in
high school. Now she has a plan for revenge. She'll hook Dylan, and leave him before he has a
chance to know what hit him. She's going to be the challenge that men like Dylan always want,
since
they only want what they cannot have. But then, one look in his eyes makes her want to forget her
carefully laid-out plan. After all, no woman can resist the might Quinns. In this second novel of
The
Mighty Quinns, author Kate Hoffmann gives the second Quinn brother a chance at love. Dylan
proves himself to be a sexy, dynamic hero who's always gotten by on his charm. Meggie
demonstrates herself to be the woman with whom he can share something real and honest.
Nevertheless, although readers will find these characters appealing quite appealing, the conflict
between may feel a bit thin, lacking the depth of plot demonstrated by the previous novel in this
series. A pleasant read, The Might Quinns: Dylan comes recommended.
One Bride too Many/One Groom to Go: Duets No 59
Jennifer Drew
Harlequin Inc.
PO Box 1325, Buffalo, NY 14269
ISBN 0373441258, $TBA, Mass Market Paperback, 378 pages
Keeps the giggles coming -- Highly recommended Romantic Comedy
One Bride Too Many and One Groom To Go, two new releases combined into one Duets book,
tell
the humorous path of matrimony for twins when their grandfather Marsh demands that they
marry.
Refusal to marry means that he'll sell the Bailey stock and their mother will lose control of the
business. In One Bride Too Many Cole Bailey crashes a wedding reception looking for a bride of
his
own. When he unexpectedly rescues the bridesmaid's dress from permanent damage, he's
surprised
to see the changes time has made to a former classmate. Tess Morgan's transformation leaves him
breathless, but a man can't date a "pal." When Tess looses a bet to him, Cole persuades her to play
matchmaker for him. Friday nights will never be the same as he manipulates and monopolizes his
way through the weekends and Tess sits home alone, or worse finds herself on a double date with
him. In One Groom To Go, Zach Bailey figures that if he can hold out until his brother and new
bride are pregnant, he can get off the marriage hook with his grandfather. He hopes that his
grandfather will be amenable to passing his shares of stock to a new Bailey, thereby ensuring that
his
mother remains in her current position in the company. Until news of unclehood arrives, Zach
convinces the host of a home improvement show, Megan Danbury, to becomes his "fake
girlfriend"
in exchange for saving her career. But Megan is trouble personified on screen and off. She needs
him
to keep the station owner happy and her career intact, but she'd really prefer to tell him what he
can
do with his hammer and stripper. Jennifer Drew provides fans of romantic comedy two amusing
romps in this Duet selection. The bad-boy Bailey twins find themselves yielding to the demands of
the heart with entrancing characterizations and a fun plot. A quick, light read filled with witty
dialogue and outrageous situations, this Duet selection comes highly recommended.
Mr. and Mrs. Wrong: Harlequin Superromance No 1012
Fay Robinson
Harlequin Retail Inc
PO Box 1325, Buffalo, NY 14269
ISBN 0373710127, $TBA, Mass Market Paperback, 296 pages
Spontaneous combustion - Very highly recommended Contemporary Romance
Erin Cahill, nicknamed Lucky, and her husband of eleven months Jack just can't seem to work
things
out. They are crazy about each other, but with intensely different goals and values, they can't
seem
to resolve their differences. Nevertheless, they also can't seem to stay away from one another.
When
Jack returns yet again to the cabin along Alabama's Black Warrior River to supposedly look for
something he'd left behind, the author remarks: "The only thing they found were the zippers to
each
other's pants." That single comment hooked this reviewer! On one hand, Jack's reticence about
revealing his past initially adds an element of danger and mystery. Eventually his silence simple
irritates her. On the other hand, Jack doesn't like her job, her home and her lifestyle. It's always
the
same. He comes back, they sleep together, she cries, and he leaves for his apartment where he
feels
guilty for her tears. The only thing they have in common in overpowering passion for each
other...soon a baby. Lucky fears that this pregnancy will destroy any chance they had of saving
their
marriage. When Mr And Mrs Wrong seem at impasse, however, circumstances conspire to force
Lucky and Jack to reevaluate their priorities. As an old mystery resurfaces, they are thrust into
danger and intrigue. These multifaceted characters meet their challenges with grace,
demonstrating
the transformational power of love. Indeed, Lucky's one of the most eccentric, powerful women
I've
met in romantic fiction. Her inability to complete a task because she's interrupted by watching a
spider weave a web, for example, gives her a refreshing spontaneity, yet she never crosses the line
into immature nor irresponsible. Further, the multi layered plot keeps the pages turning quickly, as
does the witty dialogue and author's flair for the dramatic. A lovely, fun read, this one goes on the
keeper shelf.
Winter Baby: Harlequin Superromance No 1015
Kathleen O'Brien
Harlequin Retail Inc
PO Box 1325, Buffalo, NY 14269
ISBN 0373710151, $TBA, Mass Market Paperback, 296 pages
Sarah Lennox's carefully constructed life follows a plan she decided upon in childhood. With
tender
young years built around chaos and change, she determined that only careful control would give
her
life the safety and security that she needs. Indeed, everything proceeded according to schedule,
including college and her career. The man she wanted to marry arrived right on time. Then
something went awry one night. Despite conscientious use of birth control, she got pregnant.
Worse,
the night she announces her pregnancy, her fianc‚ announces he's leaving Florida behind for
California - without her. Only one place, in a magical summer when she was thirteen, ever
provided
Sarah with a strong sense of home and security. Sarah takes six weeks off work and heads to
Firefly
Glen and her Uncle Ward. Just outside of town, during a bout of morning sickness brought on by
heights and driving through mountains, she meets Sheriff Parker Tremaine when he stops to check
on her. He's returned to this tiny Adirondack town for healing as well, following his divorce and
resignation from big city life and the Secret Service. He loves Firefly Glen, despite town leaders
who
argue over the upcoming festival, the mayor's daughter's inappropriate behavior, and the difficulty
of
keeping his one jail cell free for its intended purpose. More, he's coming to love Sarah, despite her
determination to maintain her distance. Kathleen O'Brien creates a pleasing romance in Winter
Baby,
the first of the Four Season in Firefly Glen miniseries. The spunky heroine demonstrates
substantial
growth as she moves from a relationship of indifference to a relationship of passion. Her
pregnancy
gives impetus to change, and builds marvelous sympathy in the reader. Moreover, the sexy hero
proves that pregnant women are sexy and desirable. Indeed, I can't resist a man who happily
accepts
another man's child as if it were his own. While the plot does provide minor conflict, however,
this
novel revolves around strong characters, whether it is the hero and heroine,or the wonderfully
drawn
secondary characters. Highly recommended.
Night Pleasures: Temptation No 849
Jule McBride
Harlequin Retail Inc
PO Box 1325, Buffalo, NY 14269
ISBN 0373259492, $TBA, Mass Market Paperback, 218 pages
Scintillating and seductive -- Very highly recommended Contemporary Romance
Cryptologist Edison Lone's always has been more interested in what people don't say than what
they
do. He's been following classified ads that someone uses to make contact and sell information
from
the IBI. Before he can take his suspicions to the CIIC, Edison's reassigned to investigate Selena
Silverwood. Surveillance cameras have recorded her working on a personal diary during work
hours, leading to the possibility that she's encoding secrets into her prose, and then selling that
information. Despite the attraction between them, Edison would never allow himself to fall for a
traitor. The contrast between Selena's outward shyness and her inward heated fantasies haunts
Edison. When he invites her to dinner and she transforms from ugly duckling to stunning siren,
Edison's hooked. He can't help wondering if she's ready to make her fantasies a reality. For a man
who loves puzzles and secretive communications, reading Selena's fantasies provides the most
stimulating puzzle he's ever had. The question remains if they can learn to share more than just
night
pleasures. Fantasy rules the night in Night Pleasures by Jule McBride. This sensual romance
makes
the pages sizzle with its erotic delights. The characterizations are complex with a constant
question
as to loyalties. Further, the underlying plot of selling information lends the novel fascinating
intrigue,
keeping the tempo quick as new information is revealed. Moreover, the deft interweaving of the
fantasy and reality through excerpts from the diary proves to be quite titillating. Scintillating and
seductive, Night Pleasures comes very highly recommended.
Thirty Nights: Harlequin Blaze No 5
JoAnn Ross
Harlequin Retail Inc
PO Box 1325, Buffalo, NY 14269
ISBN 0373790090, $4.50, Mass Market Paperback, 248 pages
Winner of the WordWeaving Award of Excellence -- Very highly recommended Contemporary
Romance
Research scientist Hunter St. John learned to put his feelings in cold storage years ago. A difficult
childhood, betrayal by a mentor, and terrorist threats has taught him to meet the world with a
cold,
logical demeanor. Then he brings Gillian Cassidy to his island, planning a little fun and revenge,
only
to unleash a boiling torrent of emotions. It was supposed to be so simple. Gillian would become
his
sex slave for thirty days in exchange for protecting her father's reputation. He plans to release the
brazen woman concealed beneath the serene exterior, gaining her absolute surrender, and then he
plans to send her away. He'd set her on fire while he remained cool and analytical. But his plan
backfires. Concert pianist Gillian has always been a woman who rules her emotions rather than
allowing her emotions to rule her; that is, until she comes to Hunter's island. Part of the lure must
have been the left over feelings and curiosity of her adolescent years. Of course, she also comes to
protect her father's reputation, not that he deserves it, because without her acquiescence Hunter
will
discredit her father to the world. It doesn't take long, however, for her motives to shift to her own
desires and fantasies. As Hunter teaches her things about herself, revealing the dark, hidden
secrets
of her psyche, Gillian yields willingly and enthusiastically. Too bad she's promised only thirty
days.
Author JoAnn Ross combines the fantastic elements of fairy tales with the passionate elements of
fantasy to create a sizzling delight in Thirty Nights. She's the unawakened virgin, he's the scarred
recluse; together they are magic as they satisfy fierce desire and tumultuous emotions. With a plot
as
entrancing as the characters, Thirty Nights will keep the pages turning. Indeed, with a stunning
display of sensuality, passion and danger, Thirty Nights is everything readers should expect from
Blaze. Very highly recommended.
Texas Vows: A McCabe Family Saga
Cathy Gillen Thacker
Harlequin Retail Inc
PO Box 1325, Buffalo, NY 14269
ISBN 0373834632, $TBA, Mass Market Paperback, 299 pages
Compelling -- Very highly recommended Romance
When the tenth housekeeper in six months quits, a retired lady-marine-turned-house-keeper, Sam
McCabe still refuses to admit he and his five boys need the help of a grief counselor, and
especially
the help of Kate Marten. Kate confronts Sam, stating that what is happening in the aftermath of
Ellie's death is not routine, but Sam won't listen. He's always "sucked up" and gotten through
emotional times by controlling his emotions, and that is exactly what he and boys will continue to
do. In one last effort to help, Kate insists upon becoming their temporary housekeeper, hoping to
create opportunities for healing. Kate understands grief. Her brother Pete, Sam's best friend, died
in
a tragic accident when she was twelve. Her parents coped with the loss much as Sam does -- by
stoically keeping their chins up and not confronting the pain. Healing for Kate came in college
when
she began taking psychology classes. Now Kate pursues the career path she loves through grief
counseling. Defying her parents' advice and the harsh words of her fianc‚, Kate moves in with
Sam's
brood for five weeks, determined to bring healing to this hurting household of males. She doesn't
expect to have to confront her own needs as well, including the lack of passion in prospective
marriage and a wish for the kind of passion Sam shared with Ellie. As Texas Vows unfolds, the
humor of the five boys, ages five to eighteen, carefully balances the weightier subject matter. Even
the secondary characters are carefully drawn and richly embellished with detail to give them
vibrancy. Indeed, Texas Vows is a surprising gem -- with its multi layered plot and multi faceted
characters, it sparkles with freshness and depth. The subject of grief and the tragic loss of
important
characters within the novel result in a compelling read that is heartwarming and "real." Rather
than
the typical escape from reality most genre romance novels provide, Texas Vows escapes into
reality,
confronting our fears of loss and need to live beyond death of loved ones. The characers,
including
the children, are believable, even allowing teens to be belligerent, angry, and dangerous to self.
Texas Vows comes very highly recommended.
L.A. Confidential: Blaze No 16
Julie Kenner
Harlequin Retail Inc.
PO Box 1325, Buffalo, NY 14269
ISBN 0373790201, $4.50, Mass Market Paperback, 216 pages
Hot! Very highly recommended Contemporary Romance
Ken Harper's talent and ambition matched Lisa Neal perfectly, making him irresistible.
Unfortunately, it was her own ambition that cost LIsa the sexy restaurateur, leading her to New
York for the opportunity of a lifetime. She'd worked her tail off for years for an opportunity to
become a player in the Hollywood scene, and when one of the country's hottest independent
producers offers her a job, she immediately leaves LA and Ken behind. Too bad the hot producer
found more satisfaction in snorting the drugs investor's money could buy than he did in making
movies. And too bad Lisa's name was linked in the scandal. Now she's returning to the City of
Angels with a promise of return to the world of film if she can convince Ken to help. Ken's
restaurant Oxygen continues to succeed. Not bad for a college drop-out from Blanco, Texas. His
semi-celebrity status doesn't please him, but can't be avoided, even when it brings women like
Alicia
Duncan. Alicia wants an interview with Ken at Oxygen and will do anything to get it. Ken refuses
to
diminish the mystique of the restaurant with testimonials, personal appearances, or commercials.
So
when Lisa returns to town and convinces Ken to let her use Oxygen for a film site, Alicia wants to
know why. Every year Oxygen's anniversary reminds Ken of the loss of the love of his life. At the
restaurant's opening he had an engagement ring in his pocket, believing Lisa felt the same way he
did. Instead, she was gone to New York two days later with another man. "Hit-and-run dating",
as
his best friend calls it, wasn't making him happy. Maybe if he helps her, Ken can finally get on
with
his life. So he agrees to let Lisa use Oxygen, for a price. Ken had been waiting to marry Lisa
before
he made love to her. Now he wants Lisa not just for sex but decadence, "A wild time the likes of
which we never got to have before." But the question remains if a night of sin and sex will be
enough to satisfy them both. Author Julie Kenner once again delivers a romance that turns up the
heat! With the abiance of Los Angeles for her background, LA Confidential is a sexy, dazzling
romp.
The single-mindedness of the heroine's decision to pursue her career goals never threats the hero's
success, nor does she back away from her goals for love. Indeed, this reviewer is very impressed
with the successful conclusion that never comprises the strength of these wonderful characters. In
addition, Ken's best friend who happens to tend bar at Oxygen is a hoot! His knowledge of
women's
magazines gives the novel a touch of verve that is irresistible. LA Confidential has been added to
the
keeper shelf. Very highly recommended.
Intensive Caring: Harlequin Superromance No 1010
Bobby Hutchinson
Harlequin Retail Inc
PO Box 1325, Buffalo, NY 14269
ISBN 0373710100, $TBA, Mass Market Paperback, 297 pages
The promise of an explosive sexual attraction keeps Dr. Portia Bailey trying to maintain her
distance
from race car driver Nelson Gregory. Despite her aloofness, Nelson pursues her with a passion,
indulging her in the most extravagant and unusual gifts she's ever received. Nevertheless, she's not
particularly interested in a relationship with a man who indulges in extreme sports, living life in
the
moment without regard for safety. Portia assumes he's around for the thrills, and when the new
wears off, the playboy will off to new fascinations. When Nelson found out that he had a strong
chance of inheriting the devastating neurological disease that destroyed his father's life, he made a
number of changes in his life. He divorced the woman he loved and distanced himself from his
mother rather than allow them to suffer while watching the disease progress. He began pursuing
dangerous sports in an effort to live in the moment and ignore the possibilities of the future. But
when he learns of Portia's special gift, and the renewed possibilities of the future, Nelson finds
himself radically reevaluating his life once again. Author Bobby Hutchinson maintains a light,
lively
tone in the face of devastating illness and its consequences in Intensive Caring. Striking the
perfect
balance of irreverence and seriousness, she explores the devastating effects of tragic illness,
turning
tragedy into a triumph of the human spirit. Secondary character Juliet, who is mentally challenged,
also lends wonderful humor and complexity to this marvelous novel. Additionally, Portia's psychic
ability to read auras lends a touch of a new age spirit that is both welcome and different from the
standard fair of genre romance. Highly recommended.
Heat of the Night: Temptation No 846
Donna Kauffman
Harlequin Retail Inc
PO Box 1325, Buffalo, NY 14269
ISBN 0373259468, $TBA, Mass Market Paperback, 218 pages
Heated fantasies and encounters -- Very highly recommended Contemporary Romance
Handcuffs, a leather mask, and a pink tutu promise public scandal, threatening the mayor's
reelection
campaign. Charged with finding the truth, Detective Brady O'Keefe heads the investigation into
the
murder of the mayor's kinky chief financial backer. With the media circling, the case couldn't get
much more difficult. Ordered to stay away from the press, Brady's expected to turn that chore
over
to a professional liaison. Then Brady's childhood nemesis shows up as a PR consultant and as
mouthy as ever. Indeed, "Terror Mahoney" has grown into a nemesis with incredible erotic
possibilities. Spin doctor Erin Mahoney knows to present facts to the media with just enough
titillation to turn the tide in her direction. A lot is riding on her reputation to get the job done.
She's
equally adept at manipulating men with her sexuality, without giving into the passions of sex. But
somehow with Brady those lines are blurring. She intends to work right up to the edge of
professional acceptability; instead, she finds herself falling hard for the dangerous and
unpredictable
Detective. With heated sexual tension building, it only seems to make sense to let off some steam
in
a single night of no strings attached passion. But Erin and Brady fail to realize that strings have a
way of attaching during heated fantasies and encounters. Author Donna Kauffman once again
pens a
sensual and heated romance in Heat Of The Night. As temperatures rise, the plot promises to
leave
someone burned...or burning! Sizzling and enticing to the extreme, this fast-paced romp can't help
but please. With believable, sexy characterizations, readers will find the pages turning quickly as
steam rises and suspense builds. Very highly recommended.
Substitute Father: Harlequin Superromance No 1019
Bonnie K. Winn
Harlequin Retail Inc
PO Box 1325, Buffalo, NY 14269
ISBN 0373710194, $4.99, Mass Market Paperback, 296 pages
Winner of the WordWeaving Award of Excellence: Contemporary Romance
Veterinarian Luke Duncan knows he is a soft touch for orphans of the four-legged variety. But
the
day a small boy steals his shopping cart, he learns that he's an equally soft touch for orphans of the
two-legged variety. Now he'll do anything to help Brian, Hannah and Troy find the stability that
was
tragically taken from them when their mother died. Unfortunately, social worker Kealey
Fitzpatrick
may have other ideas about what's in the best interest of the children. Their blind date was
disastrous, and her assignment to the case may prove even more so. Kealey wishes she had the
ability to take life with the openness and spontaneity that she sees in others. But years of being
shuffled between foster homes taught her to guard her feelings and desires carefully. Doggedly
erected barriers prevent anyone from drawing close, yet somehow Luke manages. With his gentle
understanding of three orphans, Luke slips beneath her defenses. Despite his best intentions,
however, Luke cannot provide the children with a two parent home; which, of course, is in their
best
interests. When Kealey finely understands just what Luke can provide, it may be too late to keep
him
and the three orphans together without resorting to a marriage of convenience. While the
Marriage
of Convenience miniseries suggests a rather predictable plotline, author Bonnie K. Winn fashions
a
character driven romance with heart touching originality. From the shopping cart escapade that
brings Luke and the orphans together to Kealey's newly discovered enthusiasm and creativity,
each
moment becomes charmingly poignant. Further, Luke's small gifts and loving treatment of Kealey,
despite her clear cut goals of ending the marriage at a specified time, demonstrate his own
remarkable abilities to risk his heart without expectation, but always with hope. Very highly
recommended.
Sleeping With the Enemy: Harlequin Blaze No 10
Jamie Denton
Harlequin Retail Inc
PO Box 1325, Buffalo, NY 14269
ISBN 0373790147, $TBA, Mass Market Paperback, 256 pages
Winner of the WordWeaving Award of Excellence -- Very highly recommended Contemporary
Romance
FBI agent Jared Romaine devoted himself to deep cover assignments until he was accused of
murder. The government claims the proof against him is rock solid. In the three years he's been in
hiding, the best of the agency has been unable to track him down. Somehow, this rogue agent still
manages to maintain tenuous contact with his beloved sister without revealing his location. Even
though the government wants Jared, not his sister, they use their connection to watch and wait for
Jared to surface. FBI agent Chase Bracken has made a name for himself by breaking rules and
earning the highest success rate in the New York office. But now he has offended the wrong desk
jockey, and if he wishes to remain with the agency, he has only two weeks to locate Jared
Romaine.
Prepared to use any method necessary, Chase doesn't know his rule breaking is about to endanger
his heart. While he reminds himself that the good lady doctor is nothing but the sister of a killer,
and
therefore a means to an end, his emotional involvement takes their passionate encounters to all
new
levels. Destiny "Dee" Romine knows how relentless the FBI can be. A woman with secrets, she
doesn't let anyone too close, even choosing ER medicine so disallow patient closeness. Although
she's had a few men in her life, none of those relationships made her sexual desire kick into high.
When she meets the sexy football coach renting the space overhead, Dee faces a sizzling
awareness
that sends her into sensory overload. When she learns that she's sleeping with the enemy, the
betray
promises to destroy all. Winner of the WordWeaving Award of Excellence, Sleeping With The
Enemy combines the best of romance with the worst of deception, creating a remarkable,
memorable
read. Author Jamie Denton's characteristic trademark -- inclusion of an adopted character --
results
in a fabulous hero. With a unique flair for combining a sexy, sultry love story with an intense plot,
Denton once again proves her mastery of romance. Indeed, this reviewer will never be able to eat
cherry red Popsicle again without thinking of erotic connotations! Very highly recommended.
My Montana Home: Harlequin Superromance No 1014
Ellen James
Harlequin Retail Inc
PO Box 1325, Buffalo, NY 14269
ISBN 0373710143, $TBA, Mass Market Paperback, 298 pages
Recommended Contemporary Romance
Robert Maxwell Senior's sweeping power and control over not only the town of Paradise Corners
but also his own family led to rebellion in daughter Cassie. She married the man of her choice,
poor
choice it might have been, to spite Robert, and now raises her son as a single mother. Determined
to
run her own life and make her own decisions, she declines to visit the family ranch more than once
a
month or so, despite her son's love for his grandfather. With an absent father, young Zack
withdraws
into himself. He doesn't understand why his father doesn't keep promises of visits and phone calls.
Despite her training as a social worker, Cassie finds she cannot heal her own son. When Hannah
dies, the surrogate grandmother leaves yet another hole in the lives of Cassie and her son. Now
they
will have to move again, since the grandson Andrew Morris plans to sell the home and the cottage
they rent. When Cassie literarily drops into his arms, Andrew quickly finds his hands full in more
than one way. Despite the protective walls he's built to ensure his emotions never become overly
engaged, he can't resist this fiery, sexy woman and her young son. But the past holds a power
over
Andrew that only he can shake, and only if he's willing to risk more than he ever has before. My
Montanta Home brings about a satisfying conclusion to the Big Sky Country miniseries. The
ongoing conflict between family members reaches a climax that brings about a few surprises and
new
beginnings. Further, Cassie's growing self-honesty regarding her relationship with her family, and
especially with her sisters, proves both poignant and understandable. Most importantly, her bold
statement of love, and willingness to continue her life and growth despite its reception will strike a
sympathetic cord with readers. Unfortunately, author Ellen James was challenged to resolve a
huge
number of threads, and the conclusion feels a bit rushed. Nevertheless, My Montana Home comes
recommended.
Jingle Bell Bride?: Duets No 64 B
Jennifer LaBrecque
Harlequin Inc.
PO Box 1325, Buffalo, NY 14269
ISBN 0373441304, $5.99, Mass Market Paperback, 378 pages
Dilly Fitzgerald is not your typical heroine. A bit overweight with frequently limp hair, she can
outrope, outride and outcuss even a seasoned ranch hand. When she learns that her father bought
her a husband will bull semen, Dilly walks out of the church minutes before the ceremony. She
perceives the exchange as a betrayal; her ex-fianc‚ and father consider it a business deal. She can't
believe her fianc‚ was going to marry her for bull semen and grazing rights. And her beautiful
Christmas wedding had been arranged around tax breaks. Never again will she settle for no less
than
breathless grand passion that makes her toes curl. Mick MacDougal takes over driving his
brother's
limousine as a favor when his sister-in-law goes into labor early. Things are slow at his ranch
anyway, so he welcomes the diversion. The sacrifice of three hard years of work and his marriage
have left the ranch in better shape, but they aren't in the black yet. All he'll need to do for his
brother
is pick the happy couple up at the church and drive them to their honeymoon destination. Sounds
easy, until the big, blond, bodacious bride exits the church alone and offers to pay him extra if he'll
take her to the planned honeymoon retreat and drive her all week. She doesn't know her father's
offered to pay in bull semen for Mick to look after his little girl until she comes home. Mick puts
responsibility to his ranch and his help above his personal life. Securing bull semen will ensure
stock
that will keep his people employed and paid. But when Dilly discovers her sexy driver is no better
than her ex-fianc‚, she's going to be pissed. Mick quickly finds himself falling for this story
woman
full of beauty and fury. As for Dilly, she figures its pretty bad when one kiss with limo driver in a
burger joint eclipses every bit of her previous sexual experience. Author Jennifer LaBrecque
creates
a delightfully capricious romance in Jingle Bell Bride? This unusual cast of characters, including a
convention of nuns, a best friend who's enrolled in an nternet assertiveness support group, and an
ex-fianc‚ accompanied by a mariachi band add captivating spice to this outrageous story.
Underlying
the humor is an irrational, wanton attraction between hero and heroine that will make the reader's
toes curl. Jingle Bell Bride? comes highly recommended.
Midnight Fantasies (3 novels in 1)
Vickie Lewis Thompson, Stephanie Bond, Kimberly Raye
Harlequin Retail Inc
PO Box 1325, Buffalo, NY 14269
ISBN 0373834640, $TBA, Mass Market Paperback, 376 pages
Searing! Very highly recommended Contemporary Romance
Harlequin's new series debuts with Midnight Fantasies, a collection of three novellas designed to
whet the reader's imagination. Smoothly written, well-developed plots provide a solid basis for
these
sensual romances. "Mystery Lover" by Vicki Lewis Thompson: A sudden storm allows B.J. to
take
advantage of the dark to seduce the lover of her fantasies. One of the most daring fantasies,
anonymous sex, releases her inhibitions when she becomes the temptress. Blindfolds, whipped
cream
and leather chaps all combine in mind-blowing sex between B.J. and Noah. But the question
remains
if she can maintain her anonymity or if Noah will realize that she's his life long friend. Wildly sexy!
"After Hours" by Stephanie Bond: Harry, the anatomically correct blowup doll arrives promising
Rebecca Valentine true love. She's the proprietor of Any Time Costumes where she indulges her
fantasies after hours when she dresses in her own sultry creations. When the man of her fantasies
unexpectedly catches her dressed as a vampire complete with black garters, the object of her
desire
can't help his own newborn fantasies. A perfect mix of tenderness and erotic enthusiasm. "Show
and
Tell" by Kimberly Raye: A naughty lingerie party inspires the very staid Lney Merriweather to
write
her fantasy on a slip of paper, which the object of her fantasy Dallas Jericho later finds.
Encouraged
by the words, Dallas begins his pursuit of his fantasy woman. The town's bad boy, Dallas must
overcome his legacy to convince Judge Merriweather's prim daughter that he's the man to indulge
her every fantasy. Heated and sensual. For those seeking a touch of the risqu‚, this new series
with
satisfy even the most discerning reader with bold, sensual romance. This new series allows women
to luxuriate in their sexuality with sexy, sensual reads that indulge the wildest fantasies with a
strong
storyline and a beautiful romantic backdrop. Irresistible for the modern woman, this collection
comes very highly recommended and promises great things for this new series.
Emily's Daughter: Harlequin Superromance No 1016
Linda Warren
Harlequin Retail Inc
PO Box 1325, Buffalo, NY 14269
ISBN 037371016X, $TBA, Mass Market Paperback, 297 pages
Secrets, pain and redemption -- Highly recommended Contemporary Romance
Eighteen years ago Emily Cooper and Jackson Talbert connected in a way that was profound. At
twenty-one, he was struggling with his family regarding entering the family business. At
seventeen,
she was struggling with the embarrassment of her mother's recently announced pregnancy.
Together
they found mystery and magic beneath the moon, loving one another deeply and passionately.
Their
last night together, they ran out of condoms, reusing one in an effort to be responsible. It wasn't
enough. When Emily learned of her pregnancy, she repeatedly tried to contact Jackson. All his
promises of phone calls and return visits disappeared in the light of day, leaving her alone to cope.
She didn't know his mother was terminally ill, and as she struggled to cope with birth, he was
learning about death. Lost in his grief, Jackson never knew that Emily was trying to reach him.
Emily's mother reacted strongly to her teen daughter's pregnancy. Harsh words and judgment
pushed Emily into a decision she would regret for the rest of her life. She gave her daughter up
for
adoption. She never told anyone of those days, and the wounds are still fresh. Even fresher when
she's working as a doctor and Jackson unexpectedly arrives at the hospital to demonstrate his new
software. As all the old feelings come rushing back, Emily's secret holds the power to destroy
their
relationship yet again. Or provide the healing they both need. Author Linda Warren creates a
poignant tale of family, forgiveness, and redemption in Emily's Daughter. While the plot might be
a
bit predictable, the play of family dynamics and the resolution of the past result in poignant,
memorable read. Emily Cooper is flawed, admirable, beautiful heroine as is Jackson Talbert an
equally flawed, worthy, memorable hero. These are characters that believable, that readers can
identify with, and that remain in the heart and imagination long after the last page is turned.
Highly
recommended.
Born of the Bluegrass: American Romance No 896
Darlene Scalera
Harlequin Retail Inc
PO Box 1325, Buffalo, NY 14269
ISBN 0373168969, $TBA, Mass Market Paperback, 250 pages
Delicate second chances -- Very highly recommended Contemporary Romance
They have only two things in common. They both have a gift to see beyond the obvious to the
value
beneath the surface, whether it is horses or people. They also share a son. But Reid Hamilton
doesn't
know he has a son. When the baby Trey came into the Hamilton's lives, they teetered on
bankruptcy
and grieved the loss of the eldest son. Younger son Reid had assumed the reins, attempting to
save
the Hamilton stable. But it was the child that saved the family, giving them hope. Reid believes the
child to be his nephew, born out of wedlock following the death of his oldest brother. Little does
he
suspect the child is his own, conceived one surreal night when passion balanced death. For five
lonely years Reid raises the child as his own. Then the sight of a fantastic horse lures Reid into not
only bring the horse home, but the groom who cares for it. She possesses a loose control, an
understated passion that blows his own measured life into chaos and leaves him with long
forgotten
desire. Despite his intuition, however, he never links this woman to the woman of his fantasies.
When Danielle Tate saw the four year old boy streaking across the yard, saw the birthmark on his
thigh, saw his father, she wanted to be part of their lives with a desperation born of a mother's
love.
She didn't know what to do. The beautiful child has a family that loves him and takes very good
care
of him. She is only a horse groomer that had one miraculous night of splendor that led to
pregnancy
and loss. Now Dani has a second chance -- this opportunity to work at Hamilton Hills, to remain
close to the man and the child of her heart. Never will she willing walk away from this glorious
opportunity to watch her child grow. But she surely cannot hope to hide her secret forever. Born
Of
The Bluegrass is a splendidly woven tapestry of finely created emotions. The novel is filled with
fierce intensity and naked vulnerability, thickly wrapped with reflection, regret and possibility. The
carefully measured prose maintains a cautious tension, keepng the weave even and intriguing.
Moreover, the background of the Kentucky bluegrass, together with the scent of sunlight and
shadow, intertwine in a novel that entrances the reader. An incredible and touching read, Born Of
The Bluegrass comes very highly recommended.
Between Honor and Duty: American Romance No 894
Charlotte Maclay
Harlequin Retail Inc
PO Box 1325, Buffalo, NY 14269
ISBN 0373168942, $4.50, Mass Market Paperback, 251 pages
Evocative - Very highly recommended Contemporary Romance
Firefighter Logan Strong carries a heavy load of guilt following the death of his partner in a
building
fire. His guilt distances himself from the other firefighters at his station as he attempts to protect
Ray's reputation. Ray had been hailed a hero by the station and media, but Logan knows that
Ray's
death wasn't an accident. Worse, he feels responsible for letting Ray walk out on the roof that
collapsed beneath his feet. Now Logan tells himself that he owes it to Ray's widow to help out in
any way he can. But he can't deny to himself that he feels a lot more than brotherly affection for
Ray's widow. Ray had been little more than a shadow in his family's life. His wife Janice carries
her
own burden of guilt. If only she had been a better wife, she could feel the depths of grief others
seem
to expect. But Janice thought they had time, years stretching ahead to resolve their distance.
Indeed,
she feels a stronger connection to Logan than she ever did her husband as he steps in to help
around
the house and with the children. Logan inspires a sense of excitement, a touch of the forbidden.
And
he makes her feel beautiful and desirable for the first time in ten years. Somewhere Between
Honor
And Duty exists the chance for Janice and Logan to love in Charlotte Maclay's latest installment
of
the Men of Station Six miniseries. With startling freshness, Maclay creates a boldly fresh heroine.
For example, Janice proves her feistiness in seeking her bold resolution to her deceased husbands
debts at a Los Vegas casino. Having shared her fate, to some degree, by being left with bills while
the ex absconded, I can't help being impressed by Janice's handling of facts as she resurrects them,
piece by piece, right down to the purple thong under her husband's front seat. Likewise, hero
Logan's loyalty to his partner's memory is commendable, as he protects the deceased father's
image
in the eyes of his children. Indeed, Maclay proves her deft ability to weave deep emotion and
fierce
passion into a believable, strongly evocativeread. Very highly recommended.
Body Heat: Harlequin Blaze No 8
Carly Phillips
Harlequin Retail Inc
PO Box 1325, Buffalo, NY 14269
ISBN 0373790120, $TBA, Mass Market Paperback, 249 pages
Sizzling! Very highly recommended Contemporary Romance
The days might be hot and humid, but New York City nights sizzle as Jack Lowell returns again
and
again to The Sidewalk Cafe to watch the sexy waitress. Just the sight of her rouses Jack's
curiosity
and encourages his imagination. Her blazing smile inspires a plethora of fantasies, feeding the
raging
inferno within. Indeed, few things have piqued his imagination since a shooting sidelined him and
took out his partner. Yet even the shoulder injury and the determination to seek retribution for the
loss of his fellow officer isn't enough to curb the desire that blazes with such a force that it causes
him to return day after day just to watch her. As the sizzling awareness rages into an inferno,
Brianne Nelson's fantasies center around the sexy stranger who returns night after night to the
cafe.
Working two jobs and carrying immense responsibility has robbed her life of fun, and just the kick
she gains from seeing her fantasy man is enough to add new vitality to Brianne nights. Her day
job,
however, soon leads to an incredible opportunity to make enough money for a life of her own.
Rina,
the woman who frequently accompanies the sexy stranger, hires Brianne to be her brother's
physical
therapist. While Rina is out of town over the summer, Brianne to moves into Rina's luxurious
Manhattan apartment to work with her brother. Jack doesn't need a live in therapist, nor does he
want his sister's matchmaking. And now the woman he's desired for months is becoming his
roommate. Once Brianne arrives, it's impossible to cover his previous shoulder recovery. Jack was
using his injury as a cover to find the perpetrator of his partner's killer, and Brianne can't be
fooled.
Worse, as a cop with a bad marriage and divorce behind him, Jack doesn't need a new
relationship.
And his interest in Brianne is too much to contain in a no strings, unemotional affair. Something
sizzles between them more than just lust. Further, her presence puts her in danger as the
drug-dealing murderer realizes she can be used to get to Jack. It promises t be a long, hotly
seductive summer in Body Heat as author Carly Phillips playfully uses the skill of physical therapy
to
create a heated romance. Indeed, Phillips works massage therapy, water therapy and glass lined
workout rooms into erotic encounters that fuel the heat to become a blazing inferno. In addition,
the
sympathetic characters and fast paced plot keep the reader thoroughly absorbed. Provocative,
seductive, and hot, Body Heat is a keeper that comes very highly recommended.
Baby by the Book: American Romance No 893
Kara Lennox
Harlequin Retail Inc
PO Box 1325, Buffalo, NY 14269
ISBN 0373168934, $TBA, Mass Market Paperback, 250 pages
Babies and books -- Very highly recommended Contemporary Romance
Rand Barclay believes himself to be headed for a doomed life as a cantankerous bachelor until he
develops case for his carpenter. He didn't expect a lady carpenter, and he certainly didn't want a
pregnant one. Not that he has anything against pregnancy. He's well rehearsed having practically
raised several younger sisters and their offspring, but a pregnant woman shouldn't be doing all that
physical labor. But then, physical labor while he's working in the same office is good when she has
such a shapely behind. Too bad pregnancy usually means there's a man in the picture. When Susan
goes into labor in his office, however, she confesses her single hood. Susan arrives at Rand's
prepared to work. She needs this job. The death of her father the year before through her world
into
a tailspin, and meeting Gary at the hospital provided even more long-term grief. When Gary
disappeared leaving only a note alluding to a clinging vine and a parasite, Susan used the money
he
left to pay the bills and grieve. Worse, he left before she could tell him that she's pregnant. Now
her
money's running out, the baby's due in a few weeks, and she needs to move. If Rand will give her
the
job, maybe she'll manage the challenges ahead. Then her baby comes early, she has no health
insurance, and the apartment she's rented is unlivable. Rand wants to be her knight in shining
armor.
She wants to be independent. They both want to be a family, but neither has the courage to risk
admitting it. As author Kara Lennox shows in Baby By The Book, babies write their own terms
when they enter this world. While I was much younger than our thirty-old heroine when I had my
first child, I still could swear Lennox stole a page from my diary. Alone, afraid, and overwhelmed
with love with this small, perfect life, Susan's a believable mother with an imperfect past. Susan
proves that the first diaper and the first bottle can be quite intimidating if you've never handled
either
until having your own child. Rand's an imperfect hero, as well. Sexy, well-meaningwithout a clue
about women expect how to happily live around them, Rand lacks the easy social graces that
characterize most heroes. Still, he's wonderful. Indeed, this is a heart warming romance that
deserves to go on the keeper shelf. Very highly recommended.
A Montana Family: Harlequin Superromance No 1008
Roxanne Rustand
Harlequin Retail Inc
PO Box 1325, Buffalo, NY 14269
ISBN 0373710089, $TBA, Mass Market Paperback, 297 pages
Tangled relationships -- Very highly recommended Contemporary Romance
It took sixteen years for Dr Jolie Maxell to move back to Paradise Corners, Montana. Her family's
appeal to move closer and the death of a patient caused her to reevaluate her priorities and
stimulated the change of location. As she watched her patient Wendell Hill die with no money but
a
plethora of mourners, Jolie had realized there would be few to mourn her if she passed. Such a
realization caused her to seek her family, despite the many years of troubling relationships. What
she
found was animosity on the part of her hometown, suspicion and rumors abounding. Her brother's
in
huge trouble and her father's trying to ignore a serious heart condition. She also found the dream
she
thought would never be hers. Building contractor Matt Dawson came to Paradise Corners seeking
relief from a questionable Chicago neighborhood for his children. Four years ago his wife passed
away from cancer. She'd been his love, his inspiration and his dream come true, and her passing
left
both him and the children bereft. Having had one beautiful relationship, Matt doesn't expect
another
to come his way, although the children could really use a mother. But when his daughter becomes
ill,
Matt finds himself relying on Jolie for more than just medical care. A multi layered plot lends A
Montanta Family by Roxanne Rustand complexity and charm. The secondary characters, including
a
sheep guarding llama and puppy afraid of dust bunnies, bring a bit of humor to a tale filled with
deep, intense emotion. The secondary human characters neatly tie the novel to the other parts of
the
miniseries without bogging down the pace of the plot, allowing the novel to read well as a stand
alone, or part of more complex work. Further, the hero and heroine are well-balanced, believable
characters living with ordinary challenges and extraordinary circumstances. The hero's daughter's
diabetes also lends realism, both propelling the plot and creating an interesting secondary plot line.
Very highly recommended.
A Bride for Calder Brown: Temptation No 850
Kristine Rolofson
Harlequin Retail Inc
PO Box 1325, Buffalo, NY 14269
ISBN 0373259506, $TBA, Mass Market Paperback, 218 pages
Matchmaking at its best! Highly recommended Contemporary Romance
The geriatric matchmakers of Bliss, Montana return in Kristine Rolofson's A Bride For Calder
Brown. They succeeded with Owen Chase, and now its Calder Brown's turn to the altar. He's
been
with every woman in town under the age of thirty-five, and the Hearts Club needs new blood.
Ordinarily, Calder avoids Bliss during its annual matchmaking festival, but he returns home for
Owen's wedding because, as everyone knows, he throws the best bachelor parties. He's also Bliss
most confirmed bachelor; that is, until he sees the sexy Frenchwoman stepping out of the cake.
And
his secret desire doesn't stay secret long when his grandfather finds his underwear on the kitchen
floor. Now his grandfather's lending strength to the Hearts Club's matchmaking schemes. Lisette
Lemieux Hart, new owner of the Bliss bakery, isn't interested in ranchers, but she is interested in
catering the bachelor party and providing the cake. Unfortunately, the girl who ordinarily pops
out
of the cake elopes, leaving Lisette, mother of two girls, to do the honors. Surprisingly, she finds
there's something about stepping out of a cake and acting the role of sex symbol for an hour that
appeals to this overworked, over tired baker with a bigamist husband in her background. She
doesn't
need the emotional complications of a lover, or the problems that come with a husband. That is,
until
one kiss from Calder makes her ready for immoral, foolish, and embarrassing. Then the condom
breaks. Once again Kristine Rolofson combines laughter and love in A Bride For Calder Brown.
Rolofson's dramatic writing skill once again results in a marvelous cast of characters. There's
nothing
quite like a confirmed bachelor learning to be a father to two young girls. Further, not only are the
hero and heroine an unlikely combination, but the secondary cast also lends comic humor and
levity.
A delightful read, A Bride For Calder Brown comes highly recommended.
Undercover
B.W. Starmer
Virtual Book Worm
PO Box 9949, College Station, TX 77842
Copyright 2001, ISBN 1589390199, eBook/Multiple Formats
Sizzling! Highly recommended Romantic Suspense
On an ordinary day in February, Cassandra "Casey" Steele takes an normal flight of London only
to
meet with the most extraordinary of circumstances. Britt Black, owner of Black Industries
International, a corporate giant in environmental and space technologies, dozes nearby. With the
plane only half full, they have first class to themselves. Then an odd question posed by passenger
quietly catches both their attention. The man asks if they have enough fuel to bypass LaGuardia
fly
to Chicago. Shortly thereafter, three men in suits hijack the plane. Britt and Casey thwart the
hijacking attempt, but not before Britt's injured. An electric connection immediately sparks
between
Britt and Casey. As he recovers from his injuries, Cassey sits at his side at the hospital, and later
insists he come home with her for a week before resuming his hectic life style. The week deepens
the
bond between them, assuring their hearts are irretrievably engaged. Yet other issues separate
them.
Not only do they have lives in separate parts of the country, but Casey also has a dangerous
secret.
She's an investigative reporter who stalks drug lords like the men who hijacked their flight. Britt
accidentally discovers her secret identity, and lends his resources to aid her quest. Together they
risk
death to bring down drug lords that control shipments between Chicago and LA. Author Barbara
Starmer weaves a crafty balance between romance and danger in Undercover. This fast paced
thrilled grabs the reader's attention from the beginning and never lets go, weaving a deft tale of
murder, complicity and downright evil. The chemistry between this outstanding hero and heroine
keeps the pages sizzling as they struggle with not only their feeling but shared danger. Exciting,
thrilling and riveting, Undercover comes highly recommended.
Prophecy: The Awakening: Book 1
Ardy M. Scott
Twilight Times Books
P.O. Box 3340, Kingsport TN 37664-3340
ISBN 1931201307, e-Book/Multiple Formats
Exhilarating -- Highly recommended New Age Fantasy
In the battle to balance light and dark, ancient gods awaken their warriors and guardians calling
them to battle. Spanning the astral planes between the gods and mortals, a connection is formed
allowing gods walk again among men when the dark begins to overbalance the light. The gods
create a mystical force that can fight the ultimate battle between life in all of its forms. To that
end,
the gods grant immortality and magical powers to eight souls, naming them warriors and keepers
of
the spiritual planes. The Nameless One also awakens, and while he cannot yet move about, to
push
him back would give him what he desires, knowledge. The Nameless One especially wants the
keeper of the Gate. As the Nameless One threatens the light, the gods awaken Kryla, She who is
Protector of the Spiritual Planes, Gate to eternity. Kryla joins with an adult mortal host, Andrea.
Separate beings sharing the same moral existence, they join in an effort to locate the other
choosen
mortals who will aid in their fight. Andrea's latent gifts begin to blossom under Kryla's tutelage as
she ventures into the astral to receive further teachings. Even as she grows spiritually, however,
Andrea must maintain her ordinary existence, coping with a straying husband, foster children, and
the challenges of bringing together other morals that are beginning to awaken. As the chosen
mortals awaken they become more than simple beings. Called by the gods, forgotten memories of
godhood lie in the deepest recesses of their minds. These mortals are now blessed with psychic
abilities of varying natures, making them manipulators of magic. Yet walking in mortal bodies,
they
are also limited by mortal fears even as memory of their godly existence awakens. With
paranormal
elements richly woven with varying spiritual beliefs, A. M. Scott creates a fantasy novel with ties
to
wicca, magic, and even the Celestine Prophecies. Bringing these varied concepts and insights into
this powerful work of fiction, creates a novel rich in nuance. Vividly wrought visualizations
ccompany a fascinating journey of self-discovery, resulting fascinating characterizations. Creating
such a tightly woven mythology and characterization limits the speed at which the plot moves,
putting off the promised battle to the sequel. Nevertheless, with its rich textures, vivid
descriptions,
and fierce spirituality, Prophesy: The Awakening comes highly recommended.
What Rough Beast
Harry R. Squires
iPublish.com at Time Warner Books
135 West 50th Street, New York, New York 10020-1393
eBook/Multiple Formats
Winner of the WordWeaving Award for Excellence -- Very highly recommended Paranormal
Mystery
Sir Author Conan Doyle meets Harry Houdini when he takes his son to a performance by the
escape
artist. During the course of the sold out performance, Houdini challenges the audience, "I will pay
ten pounds to anyone who can shackle me so that I can not escape." A burly man carrying
manacles
rises to the challenge, but takes unfair advantage. His purpose is to issue a warning to Houdini
regarding his interference with Mr. Maximillian Cairo. Concerned for Houdini's safety, Conan
Doyle
intervenes. While he distracts the audience with a promised return of Sherlock Holmes, Houdini
makes good his escape. Houdini convinces Conan Doyle to accompany him to one Cairo's
s‚ances.
Cairo has the reputation of being the most debauched man in London. The hint of danger
tantalizes
Conan Doyle, who welcomes the distraction from the painful events of his personal life. When
they
arrive for the s‚ance, Cairo warns them that the forces he calls upon are quite powerful, and
"anguish, madness, even suicide await those who trifle with them." Intent upon debunking Cairo
as a
con artist, neither Conan Doyle nor Houdini take the warning seriously. During the course of then
evening, Houdini successfully exposes the s‚ance as a fraud. Cairo explains his s‚ance as simply a
way to support his real work, and invites the group to return the following evening for exposure
"to
a body of occult knowledge that will transform the world." The following evening, Cairo opens
the
world to a dangerous being, one that Houdini unwittingly looses upon the world. No one is safe
from the dangerous passions the being encourages. A metaphysical romp into murder and
mayhem,
What Rough Beast by Harry Squires is a must read. More than a murder mystery in the
Holmesian
tradition, What Rough Beast challenges the reader to read beyond the logic of deductive reason,
to
embrace the dangers of mythology. Squires creates a fascinating and convincing background,
using
references to Poe's short stories, London's architecture, and artists like Whistler to give authentic
lavor to the carefully woven tapestry of danger and murder. Wildly imaginative, frighteningly
realized, What Rough Beast casts a spell of psychological terror that offers intellectual rewards as
well. Very highly recommended.
The Divided Child
Ekaterine Nikas
Avid Press
5470 Red Fox Drive, Brighton, MI 48114-9079
eBook/Multiple Formats, Mass Market Paperback: 1-929613-75-X $6.99,
E-mail Attachment: 1-929613-76-8 $4.00
Recommended Suspense
Following a devastating estrangement with her father, Christine Stewart seeks healing in Greece,
the
homeland of her mother. While visiting Corfu's Old Fortress, she saves the life of a child named
Michael Redfield, thrusting her into a dangerous adventure when she returns him home. Michael's
Uncle Spiro thanks Christine, and offers her hospitality, but Michael's stepmother Demetra
provides
a hostile welcome. Despite the family's attitudes, Christine soon moves into the villa out of
concern
for the child. Michael has become the center of a nasty custody battle between Demetra and his
Uncle Geoffrey Redfield. When his father died several months before, Michael became the sole
inheritor of a massive fortune, providing anyone else in the family a motive for murder. Christine
feels an extraordinary bond to this boy, and an incredible attraction to his uncle Geoffrey. But
she'll
ignore the needs of her heart, if necessary, to protect the life of the child. The cost, however, may
be
her life. Poison, "accidents" and gunfire all point to a devious killer willing to do anything.
Grecian
landscape provides a lush and picturesque background to The Divided Child by Ekaterine Nikas.
These are extraordinary characters filled with the light and shadow of human weakness and
strength.
While the plot is uneven, as the tempo slows unnecessarily at times, it is also sufficiently complex
with hidden agendas and dangerous suspicions. Unfortunately, some areas are not sufficiently
sketched in. For example, Christine moves in with a family she doesn't know, while in a foreign
country, for a child she barely knows because he might be danger -- a foolish decision indeed for a
single woman in a foreign country who shouldn't trust anyone. Particularly if her hostess doesn't
like
her, nor want her, and her host wants to sleep with her, but she doesn't return the feelings. Indeed,
I
expected him to do a lot more chasing of her around the bedposts. Nevertheless, the suspense, the
suspects, and the conclusion work well, making Nikas an autho who bears watching. The Divided
Child is recommended.
The Gunn of Killearnan
Dorice Nelson
Novel Books
P.O. Box 661, Douglas, MA 01516
ISBN 1931696012, eBook/Multiple Formats
Very highly recommended Historical Romance
The boy Gerek's mother died before revealing his father's name. Her unexpected death felt like
abandonment, and combined with the betrayal of the promise of his father's name, the child swears
to never trust a woman. To protect child's life, his grandfather sends Gerek away from home to be
fostered. In instructs the child to become a strong warrior and forge and fierce reputation. By
making a name on the battlefield, Gerek will welcome throughout Scotland, despite the fact that
he's
a bastard. Gerek and his cousin Baen are the last of the male line. Unless one of them becomes the
Gunn, their lines will die. One will be chosen to follow their Grandfather's thirty years of service
as
chief. Gerek succeeds so well at becoming a warrior that he becomes known as the Beast of
Battle.
His grandfather chooses him over Baen to become the next Gunn, but only if he fills the final
stipulation. Gerek must marry before he turns thirty. He travels to the castle of Angus MacFarr,
the
Earl of Crannog, to fulfill his betrothal to the Earl's daughter. Unfortunately, his reputation
precedes
Gerek to his betrothed's ears. Garek's betrothed, Catiorna MacFarr, fears his reputation as much
as
she fears her father. Her father is a brutal, angry man who hates his fierce, redheaded daughter.
He
has taught her well to never trust a man. Rather than give herself in marriage to a brute like her
father, Cat escapes the castle, taking shelter in a small croft. An unexpected arrival takes control
of
her life when Gerek arrives, but fails to reveal his identity. Indeed, she likewise protects her own
identity, fearful of revealing herself to the man. Soon Gerek finds himself filled with unexpected
longing and restlessness while in her company. Cat is a woman of spirit, the perfect foil for the
Beast
of Battle in The Gunn Of Killearnan. Indeed, author Dorice Nelson creates a richly textured,
finely
detailed novel of exploit, betrayal and discovery as these characters capture the heart and
imagination of readers. Secondary characters likewise preent themselves as believable and
sympathetic as Nelson never falls into the trap of painting her villains with a totally black brush. A
gutsy, fierce tale with a vividly realized historical background, The Gunn Of Killearnan comes
very
highly recommended.
Lions of Judah
Elaine Hopper
Novel Books Inc.
P.O. Box 661, Douglas, MA 01516
ISBN 0821768387, eBook/Multiple formats
Highly recommended Romantic Suspense
Three years ago Melissa Vanderbilt-Smythe's wealthy fianc‚ Senator Nathan Alexander claimed
that
she had been kidnapped. He stated that like Patty Hearst, she'd been brainwashed and succumbed
to
her captor's every suggestion, including running away with him, indifferent to breaking the hearts
of
her fianc‚ and family. The reports painted Jesse to be a criminal and Melissa to be a spoiled,
thoughtless heiress. Melissa claims that her fianc‚ was a dangerous man, always on the brink of
explosion. Every little thing she did infuriated him. Controlling and manipulative, he'd tried to
dictate
her life. When she fled, Nathan's actions resulted in the death of her beloved husband Jesse. She's
attempted to hide, moving often, living in derelict shacks and existing without the wealth and
privilege she'd been born to expect. Melissa's tired of running, of always watching over her
shoulder
for the ghosts waiting to overtake her. But Nathan will never give up. Cody Richards is an ex-cop
turned bounty hunter. Sent to rescue a kidnapped heiress, and hopefully capture her kidnapper,
what
Cody finds doesn't meet his expectations. He doesn't initially realize that Jesse is dead. Nor has he
ever found himself fantasizing about a client before. He likes Melissa's spunk and fire. When a
chance viewing of news report reveals that Melissa's sister Christine is about to marry Nathan, he
finds himself believing her impossible tale about Melissa's ex-fianc‚, especially when she becomes
determined to give Nathan what he wants. She'll offer himself in place of her sister. Snakebites,
plane wrecks and stolen police cars draw Melissa and Cody into thrilling adventure in Lions Of
Judah. An unlikely combination, this runaway heiress and ex-cop boldly challenging the rich and
powerful. These are believable characters that are both fierce and vulnerable, unwilling to trust
and
forced by fate to risk everything. Becoming Melissa's knight on wheels, Cody presents a sexy,
strong
presence that heats the romantic interest while never detracting fro the fast paced action. Indeed,
author Elaine Hopper builds a suspenseful tale of money, power and insanity, and those who
refuse
to remain victims. Highly recommended.
Gatekeeper's Promise: Book 1, Widows' Walk Trilogy
Lee Emory
Treble Heart Books
1284 Overlook Dr., Sierra Vista, AZ 85635
ISBN 09711882-03, eBook/Multiple Formats
Highly recommended Paranormal Romance
Three widows, now ghosts, must complete their appointed matchmaking task before Gatekeeper
will open the gates of glory to them. With divorce rates rising, their task becomes even more
challenging. The leader had been a Regency lady of quality, another was a pre-civil war southern
belle, and the third was a gold panner in the Yukon. All three killed their husbands with good
cause,
hence the chance to atone and still enter heaven. With only seven successes to their credit in many
decades, the trio grows weary of their task. Especially when they realize the incredible challenge
they now face. Now they must bring Dr. Jeffrey Ryerson and history professor Brittany Engles
together. Jeffrey recently purchased the small town's courthouse, a building of historical
importance.
He plans to clear the property and build a fertility clinic. The city has had second thoughts
regarding
the sale, and has hired Brittany to help in the battle to save the historic building. On one hand, Jeff
has already invested millions in the project, has a signed contract, and cannot understand the
desire
to save the aging structure. On the other hand, Brittany must succeed in saving the building if only
to regain her professional credence. Her reputation has been badly tarnished as a result of a
scandal
of which she was innocent. Despite the state's supreme court ruling, many people still believe her
to
be guilty, including members of the board trying to save the courthouse. The first book of Lee
Emory's Widow's Walk trilogy, The Gatekeeper's Promise presents a refreshing and fun
matchmaking conundrum. The ghosts form a sold backbone to the story, promising future books
and
potential growth. While their matchmaking skills are somewhat inept and obvious, they are
absolutely delightful characters. Jeffrey's naivety regarding his ex-wife's manipulations would be
unbelievable if he hadn't so obviously long ago abandoned human relationships for business.
Indeed,
his ex-wife provides some of the best humor of the book when the ghosts give her a massge and
facial. Brittany's "sex scandal" is a little less persuasive only because accusations without proof
would more likely be an internal concern of her university, not one for the state supreme court.
Nevertheless, The Gatekeeper's Promise is a promising beginning to this trilogy, and this reviewer
eagerly awaits the next installment. Highly recommended.
Lucky in Love
Kim Howard
Books on Screen
733 Howard Street, Otsego, Michigan 49078
eBook/Multiple Formats, Price: $8.99
Highly recommended Romance
When her best friend wins an all expenses paid trip to Las Vegas for a rodeo, Kris gladly leaves
Washington DC behind for a week. Trading lawyers for cowboys sounds like a lot of fun,
although
Kris can't believe a cowboy would want a divorced woman with a child. Besides, drinking beer
doesn't suit Kris pallet - she prefers wine. But looking might be fun, especially when she meets a
rancher from Cody, Wyoming. It's certainly tempting to allow Luke St. Claire to take her away
and
make love to this city girl under the Wyoming moon. From the moment Luke glimpses the
gorgeous
blond on the street he's hooked. He's in Las Vegas on business and to relax, not pick up women.
But
when the opportunity presents itself to meet the blond Kris, Luke certainly can't resist. As luck
would have it, in fact, opportunity also presents a bet with Kris, which he wins. Now she's leaving
the lawyers of Washington DC behind for a year, to become a cook on Luke's ranch. But a chance
comment overheard gives Kris reason to keep her distance, despite her heart's inclination. A light,
fluffy read perfect for a few hours of escapist reading, Lucky In Love provides delightful
entertainment. Kris' determination to set boundaries between employer and employee makes for
fun
reading, as her heart fights her head. Luke proves himself to be fantasy material for any woman
who's ever wanted a cowboy, with looks, charm and sex appeal. Further, secondary character
Erin's
perchance for quips and comic imitations keeps the mood light and lively. Also, this talented
author
skillfully portrays a three-year-old full of mischief and fire. With such delightful elements, Lucky
In
Love proves to be a lucky read. Highly recommended.
Never Dare a Cowboy
Sylvie Kaye
LTD Books
200 North Service Rd W., Unit 1, Suite 301, Oakville, Ontario, Canada L6M 2Y1
ISBN 1553160274, eBook/Multiple Formats
Recommended Romance
Amanda Martin leaves behind Pennsylvania for the wilds of Colorado when her fianc‚ elopes
without her. She has a month for healing and pleasure at a rented cabin on a ranch. But the
rancher's
fierce eyes immediately promise to rob her of her vow to avoid dangerous men. She wants to
dislike
him. Instead, his presence dares and excites her. And she hates him for it with a passion. Self
proclaimed as honest and mean, J.T. Cutter makes his own rules. Amanda's his first and only
paying
guest. He doesn't want a temporary affair with a sassy woman who's not going to stick around.
But
soon he finds his rules tossed away like yesterday's newspaper. J.T. alternates between wanting to
turn Amanda on and wanting to run her off. At once flirty and hostile, J.T. can't seem to control
his
responses to the fiery woman. Never Dare A Cowboy once again demonstrates Sylvie Kaye's
wildly
romantic style. Coming on strong results in a dare neither Amanda nor J.T. can back down from.
The result is fantasy material embodied in 505 non-button fly jeans - sexy mind candy at its best.
Sassy, seductive and sizzling, Never Dare A Cowboy comes recommended.
The Room of Shrunken Souls
Michael Cale
LTD Books
200 North Service Rd W., Unit 1, Suite 301,Oakville, Ontario, Canada L6M 2Y1
ISBN 1553160258, e-Book/Multiple Formats
2001 Eppie finalist in the horror category -- Highly recommended Horror
In a remote location of New Zealand, an oil exploration team trudges deep into uncivilized
country.
No one from the previous expedition returned for this one. The only proof of their work were the
photos, cave maps and seismo charts. By the third week, team members became jumpy, quiet. A
volcanic eruption shrouded them in odd light as clouds of ash drifted across the sky in a sooty
filter
for the sun. Despite ominous but unspoken fear, the tear continues its duty using the latest
technology. Fitz pilots the "Fly," a tiny machine built from nano-technology, bringing new
meaning
to become "a fly on the wall." Through the use of virtual reality, he crosses the barriers between
man
and machine, becoming one with the metal, gathering information of a delicate nature. Beneath
the
surface of the earth, deep in the caves of hoped for oil deposits, he discovers something else -- An
unspeakable force, primordial, wielding a weapon of fear. The taniwha, a monster of legend,
stalks
anyone whose soul is doomed. Eventually, it takes the soul and shrinks it to the size of a pea
before
taking it to its secret room. When Fitz and a couple of team members leave to gather supplies in
town, they return to a devastated site. All remaining team members are found to be dead, missing,
or
insane. Fitz carries the awareness of the monster even over thousands of miles to his old life. As
he
continues to pilot the virtual fly, he looses the definition between virtual and reality, merging
nightmare and hallucination with everyday existence. As his mind begins to unravel, he knows he
must seek the answers deep in the earth, in The Room Of Shrunken Souls. Author Michael Cale
creates gripping entertainment in his horror novel, The Room Of Shrunken Souls. Playing off our
unconscious fears, Cale brings the worst of of our collective to light in this nightmarish blend of
primordial evil and modern technology. Surreal, tragic, scary, The Room Of Shrunken Souls
builds
to an unexpected climax, leaving terror that resonates long after the book is fnish. Highly
recommended.
Into the Fire
Norma McPhee
LTD Books
200 North Service Rd W., Unit 1, Suite 301,Oakville, Ontario, Canada L6M 2Y1
Copyright 2001, ISBN 1553160304, eBook/Multiple Formats
Very highly recommended Futuristic Romance
When Kerra Telsier destroys ten years of research into neural biosynthesis to prevent its
dangerous
misuse by the government, it was like tearing out her own heart. Now on the run, Kerra uses her
computer gifts for new purposes, stealing a pleasure ship and hiring a fencejumper. The ship will
be
the fencejumper's to keep after he leaves her on some obscure, safe planet. Rather than finding
relative safety, however, Kerra finds her heart at risk, as well as her life. Aden believes no one will
hire a smuggle who's been caught and lost his ship. He underestimates Kerra's desperation. He
likewise has pursuers. Seven years ago, Gandes raped a much-loved friend while he was under the
influence of a powerful alien pheromone. Aden reported the man to authorities, but Gandes is
now
free again, intent upon revenge. When Aden joins forces with Kerra, Gandes pursues them both
across the galaxy. Further, encounters with alien races, such a woman dominated planet where
men
are held in harems, add zany spice to an already terrific tale. Into The Fire thrusts readers into a
futuristic thriller across planets and cultures, demonstrating the creative genius of author Norma
McPhee. Alien races and motives of revenge provide imaginative background for this combination
romance, action and adventure. With a deft pen McPhee creates the gambit of human emotions
from
passionate encounters between the sheets to deadly encounters in space. Secondary characters
sparkle as brightly as the hero and heroine, resulting in a glittering read that comes very highly
recommended.
Survivor
Dave Smeds
Alexandria Digital Literature
PO Box 85479, Seattle, WA 98145-1479
ISBN 189271826X, eBook/Multiple Formats, 10,000 words
Very highly recommended Dark Fantasy, Horror
It was the time of the Vietnam War, when young men marched off to battle to server their country
and died from friendly fire, punji sticks and landmines. While on leave for his mother's funeral,
Troy
Chesley was a little drunk the night he walked into G.I. BOB'S QUALITY TATOOS. He blurted
out "It's a gook" to the tatooist before he could guard his tongue. Later he wondered if that's why
the strangeness happened. As men died around him, the fierce unicorn on his fire its eyes and a
drop
of blood on its spike took their lives, and gave it to him. The implications are staggering.
"Survivor"
is a fierce, eerie, memorable tale that combines the best of ghost stories with the horrors of
Vietnam.
Very highly recommended.
Short Timer
Dave Smeds
Alexandria Digital Literature
PO Box 85479, Seattle, WA 98145-1479
eBook/Multiple Formats, 7,000 words
Very highly recommended Dark Fantasy, Horror
First published in Fantasy & Science Fiction, author Dave Smeds short story "Short Timer" began
in
1975 when he tried to address "the aftereffects of the Vietnam War upon the guys who fought
over
there." Fifteen years later, he presents a short story that captures the voice of a survivor. DeWitt
Langdon, Accountant, revisits the nightmare of Vietnam every time the Purple Haze comes for
him.
It always leads him to the same spot, allowing him at least an hour of quite, for news from a
world
where time did not hold still, before they headed for the fire zone. While DeWitt would like to
think
its because he describe a future they don't share, he knows its really just the Purple Haze toying
with
them. And always DeWitt returns to this place to lead his men, as their squadron leader, yet again.
Five years and countless replays bring the same result. DeWitt's haunted memory, the repetition of
a
nightmare when all his men died, provides a powerful snapshot of the demons that haunt
survivors.
Very highly recommended.
Goats
Dave Smeds
Alexandria Digital Literature
PO Box 85479, Seattle, WA 98145-1479
eBook/Multiple Formats, 23,700 words
Highly recommended Dark Fantasy, Horror
Not the Hawaii of imagination, Kahoolawe is the home of Kanaloa, Brother Death, provides
training
grounds for marksmanship trials of naval gunners and pilots far from the war in Vietnam. Vicious
terrain prevents pilots from landing; the winds and surface make it impossible for takeoff. Men
jump
out of helicopters, only to be greeted by Old Billy, the rotting remains of a mountain goat.
Beneath
7,000 acres lurk bombs left from years of use as a target range. Some are greatly aged with
corroded
timing mechanisms. Others are antique, making them even more dangerous than their modern
counterparts. But bombs aren't the only danger of Kahoolawe. Goats number in the thousands,
and
soldiers are eventually ordered to kill the goats, the scourges of Kahoolawe. Yet their screams
sound human, leaving the soldiers unnerved following the bloodletting. Their "same" place of
target
practice has become a mirror of the atrocities of Vietnam. Author Dave Smeds pens a powerful,
haunting tale set during the Vietnam War. Dramatic and extremely perceptive, Goats captures the
surreal experience of war as well as the loss of the value of life. Deeply disturbing, "Goats"
powerfully demonstrates the way Vietnam's shadow fell across all soldier's experience. Highly
recommended.
Pot of Gold
Jay Dubya
CyberRead
11700 Mukilteo Speedway, Suite 201, Mukilteo, WA 98275
ISBN 1589090403, eBook/Multiple Formats, 160 pages, eBook Price: $4.95
Recommended with reservations Young Adult Fantasy
Twins Larry and Janet Garrison are traveling with their family on a vacation through western
Virginia when they spy elves changing tires, leaping from billboards, and enticing them to visit
Limerick Caverns. Their parents agree, and they prepare for the tour. Unfortunately, only two
slots
remain in the current line, so their parents linger behind to wait for the next tour. Far beneath the
ground, the guide takes them through various formations until they reach the one named the
Blarney
Stone. Remarkably, the formation looks just like the one their cousins described as leading them
on
a fabulous adventure. The twins hide until the rest of tour moves ahead, returning to examine the
stone closer. Suddenly an elf appears and leads them into the stone itself. Soon they find
themselves
in a land where time stops. Leprechauns need their help to battle an evil witch to win back their
gold. Author Jay Dubya creates a vividly imaginative world in Pot Of Gold. While the antics of
evil
witches and elves will please the eight through twelve-year-old set, there are some weaknesses. At
times Dubya's prose suffers from over striving for originality, leaving the reader feeling as though
the thesaurus is too frequently consulted, for example, "the female twin explained." Further, many
of
the literary references are beyond the scope of this age range, therefore falling flat. Nevertheless,
Dubya's humorous use of puns, rhyme and alliteration give the narrative a fun, light tone.
Recommended.
Space Bugs, Earth Invasion
Jay Dubya
CyberRead
11700 Mukilteo Speedway, Suite 201, Mukilteo, WA 98275
ISBN 1589090330, eBook/Multiple Formats, 182 pages, eBook Price: $4.95
Highly recommended Young Adult Fantasy
Workmen attempt to relocate Superstitious Rock to make way for a new housing subdivision.
They
are unexpectedly obstructed when the steel cable holding the rock above grand suddenly breaks.
Preferring to blame sabotage rather than magic, they bring a second crane to complete the job. As
town members gather to watch, David and Barbara Morgan from the Enchanta novel join their
cousins Larry and Janet Garrison from the Pot Of Gold novel to combat the evil forces release
when
the stone is at last moved. That evening the four children are watching television together when
an
alien interrupts a broadcast of the President's speech to announce she's leading an invasion. The
speaker is an overly large insect that believes insect abilities far outweigh humans. She announces
her plans to exterminate humans while keeping earth intact for all the insects living beneath the
ground. When the President resumes his speech, he slowly fades out in front of millions of
viewers.
Shortly afterward, the Vice-President is likewise unwilling transported from the Oval Office. Then
the Russian leader likewise disappears. As others continue to be transported away, worldwide
panic
begins. Worse, the queen has chosen the kid's town to begin her invasion. Knowing Superstitious
Rock has magical powers, the kids go there to with for Rhymer the Elfrechaun, Changer,
Pretender
and Inventor from the previous tales to come to their assistance. Together, they all battle Queen
Termita's evil forces. Author Jay Dubya presents the conclusion of his trilogy with Space Bugs:
Earth Invasion. With his characteristic humor and fun loving puns, Dubya's playful prose keeps
the
pages turning. Perhaps some of the literary references are above the heads of younger readers, but
the fast paced plot and imaginative imagery will more than compensate young readers. Of the
three
novels in this series, Space Bugs: Earth Invasion creates the strongest effect with a smoothly
flowing, exciting plot and clear-cut objectives. Highly recommended.
Enchanta
Jay Dubya
CyberRead
11700 Mukilteo Speedway, Suite 201, Mukilteo, WA 98275
ISBN 158909039X, eBook/Multipe formats, 147 pages
A playful read -- Recommended Fantasy Adventure for Ages 8-12
A flying horse named Wings offers to take fourteen-year-old David Morgan and his
twelve-year-old
sister Barbara on a great adventure. King Wisher needs their help to restore happiness in a land
the
horse calls Enchanta. Leaving New Jersey behind, the children embark on fabulous journey of
shape
shifters, magic, and excitement. Wings drops the children off beside a babbling brook that literally
babbles, sharing useless information. Soon the children face danger from various animals before
they
meet Changer, a shape shifter and the youngest son of King Wisher. They join forces to seek out
Changers other two brothers, Pretender and Inventor. Changer explains that King Wisher lost his
powers to protect his kingdom when an earthquake struck his kingdom ten years ago. Cruel
beings
called the Beneathians came from the center of their world and destroyed their civilization.
Beneathians also captured King Wisher's wife, Hope. Without Hope, King Wisher has stopped
believing in his magical ability. Now its up to David and Barbara to reunite the sons with King
Wisher and to rescue Hope from the Beneathians. An amusing, eventful tale with the wisdom of
traditional fables concealed in the foolishness, Enchanta will enchant its readers. Themes of
courage,
faith, and confidence bring together these unlikely characters in the spirit of adventure, imparting
remarkable lessons amid ridiculous puns and riddles. Unfortunately, the narrative style is a bit too
stilted to allow the tale to flow as comfortably as this reviewer would like. Nevertheless, the
playfulness and fun with words makes Enchanta a pleasant read. Recommended.
Coming to Terms
Jackie Kramer
Hard Shell Word Factory
PO Box 161, 8946 Loberg Rd, Amherst Jct. WI 54407
ISBN 1582006113, eBook/Multiple Formats
Highly recommended Contemporary Romance
Lights crossing into his lane were the only warning that Jared Rutledge's life was about to take a
remarkable detour. In town to secure technology from a rather eccentric inventor, Jared only
planned to be there four days. When he awakened with his leg in traction, Jared had to accept that
he'd be running his family's business from a hospital bed for a couple weeks. But gorgeous nurse
Kate Lawson certainly compensates for any inconvenience. And she just might be the answer to
fulfilling the unfortunate terms of his grandfather's will before he looses the family business. Too
bad
he doesn't know how to listen to his heart. Independent and feisty, Kate Lawson is a successful
single mother, having cared for her son alone since his kidney condition was diagnosed. Her
ex-husband could accept neither an imperfect wife nor an imperfect son, and Kate felt mostly
relief
in his absence. Too bad sexy Jared Rutledge is too much like her ex-husband and father in his
determination to always put business first. Kate's first priority is always her son, and when she
realizes he needs a transplant, Jared's outrageous marriage of convenience proposal seems just the
answer to her dilemma. That is, as long as she doesn't listen to her heart. Although the plot for
Coming To Terms is often used, author Jackie Kramer infuses it with her own unique challenges.
These strong-willed characters confront their challenges head on as they struggle to overcome
overwhelming situations. The relationship between mother and son is beautifully created as the
child
takes a vital role in the plot. Kramer captures the heart of a child wise beyond his years, lending
his
character a fascinating depth. Sexy Jared's determination to protect his family's company and the
people is employee's is commendable, even as he struggles to overcome the urge to always put
work
as his priority. Coming To Terms is highly recommended.
All About Writing To Sell: A Bestselling Writer To Writer Guide
To The Craft, Business, And Secrets Of Getting Published
Vicki Hinze
Spilled Candy Books for Writers
P O Box 5202, Niceville FL 32578
ISBN 189271826X, eBook/Multiple Formats, 589 pages
An indespensible tool -- Very highly recommended Writing Resources
The award-winning Vicki Hinze has sold fourteen novels, and two anthologies, writing for
Bantam
Dell Publishing Group, St. Martin's Press, Pinnacle, and Silhouette. Hinze holds a Master of Arts
in
Creative Writing and a Doctorate in Philosophy, Theocentric Business & Ethics. She actively
lectures on writing craft and technique and philosophy. Now Hinze turns her hand to her first
nonfiction book in All About Writing To Sell. Hinze divides her book into three section: Common
Sense Philosophy, Questions and Answers on the Craft, and Questions and Answers on the
Writing
Business. Using her own training, experience and intuition, Hinze covers the potholes and pitfalls
of
writing. Her section on philosophy acknowledges the apathy, anxiety and depression that plague
writers, and challenges authors to be creative despite those issues. Her sections on the craft and
business of writing provide the materials necessary for authors to make well-informed decisions.
For
authors looking to improve their craft, while learning the ropes or simply expanding current
knowledge, All About Writing To Sell is an indispensable tool. Readers familiar with fabulously
informative newsletter, Aids4Writers will recognize her informative, informal style. Filled with
encouragement, advice, and backstage knowledge, All About Writing To Sell covers the material
that typically fills dozes of books on the writing craft. A must have for all authors, All About
Writing
To Sell comes very highly recommended.
A Call to Magic
Lee Emory
Treble Heart Books
1284 Overlook Dr., Sierra Vista, AZ 85635
ISBN 097118822X, eBook/Multiple Formats
Very highly recommended Paranormal Romance
A magic spell cast upon their matching pendants binds Shaelyn McBride and Dolan Finnerty.
Shaelyn's pendant causes an irresistible compulsion to sell her beloved home, abandon her career
and
leave California for Ireland and her inheritance. There she finds her destiny, despite the opposition
she meets. Shaelyn simply wants to build a Bed & Breakfast and live in harmony with her
neighbors.
But her land once belonged to the Finnerty's, and they want it back. With the entire town behind
them, Shaelyn meets tremendous opposition. Nevertheless, Shaelyn refuses to allow an irascible
Irishman to get the better of her. Soon she learns that not only did she inherit her aunts property,
she
also she inherited her aunt's mystical gifts. Three years after the death of his wife, Donal appears
to
be a vulnerable, heartbroken man, concealing the strength of his youth. The last of his line, Donal
only wants to grow his thoroughbred business. Once the finest of Finnerty blooded animals
roamed
the length and breadth of their land. Then Finnertys had to sell part of the land to Shaelyn's aunt
to
raise back taxes. Shaelyn's aunt had always promised to sell them the land back, but reneged on
her
deathbed. As soon as Shaelyn arrives, Donal tries to buy back the Finnerty land, but Shaelyn
determinedly refuses. Despite the growing attraction between them, Donal likewise refuses to
loose
himself to the power of a witch. While he's out of his mind for desire of this green-eyed witch,
she's
also the last woman he would ordinarily consider taking to his bed. With a marvelous leap of
imagination, Lee Emory's A Call To Magic creates a magical world of talismans, spells, and love.
The outrageous antics of interfering "guardian angels" who create the talisman and periodically
pop
in with adroit comments lends this tale an outrageous playfulness. Lee Emory spins a magical
romance that will provide much pleasure to fans of something a bit different. These are warm,
caring
characters that are highly believable. Indeed, the tale lures and beguilesthe reader with its rich
imagination and humor. Very highly recommended.
Carl Melcher Goes to Vietnam
Paul Clayton
Electric eBook Publishing
6254 Sycamore Street, Powell River, BC, Canada V8A 4K9
ISBN 155253005X, eBook/Multiple Formats
Very highly recommended Historical Fiction
1968 brings a draft card to the mailbox of many young male Americans. Carl Melcher joins the
men
on DEROS, yearly rotation, soon learning that the intense moments of danger are interspersed
with
long periods of boredom. He quickly sheds his naivety when faced with drugs, racism, and death.
Before long, Carl finds himself shedding his naive theories of karma and conspiracy for the surreal
horrors of war. As KP duty and toting cannon shells gives way to patrol, confrontations and fear,
Carl must face the realities of war. The bush and heat take their toll as the soldiers "hump the
boonies." Booby traps, black humor and boredom dog their steps. Then Carl faces his first corpse:
a
young, neat, clean looking Vietnamese man. Suddenly Carl feels a panicky, nothing will ever be
quite right again, feeling. The senseless death of a short-timing CO sends the entire unit into a
funk,
followed by monsoon season and the influx of rats. But as rain gives way to new assignments, the
goal becomes staying alive long enough to go home. Author Paul Clayton brings his own
experience
to bear in Carl Melcher Goes To Vietnam, a young soldier's fictional account of his experience in
the
Vietnam War. From the exuberance of youth to the pain of experience, Carl's account makes a
powerful statement regarding one soldier's experience. Rather than sinking into the miasma of
weapons, stratagem, blood and gore exhibited by many books within this genre, Clayton
transcends
the details to dwell on the pain, disillusionment, friendship and healing of human experience. Carl
Melcher Goes To Vietnam is appropriate for most audiences, including young adults. This coming
of age novel is very highly recommended.
Funny Business
Jane Bierce
Awe-Struck E-Books
2458 Cherry Street, Dubuque, IA 52001
ISBN 1587490404, eBook/Multiple Formats
When opposites attract - Highly recommended Contemporary Romance
Curtiss Edmunds believes that his ambition precludes laughs. After all, nothing making a business
a
success is funny. His humorous father provided a strong example of everything a businessman
should be, and a family man shouldn't be. While being a long-faced curmudgeon might limit him
socially, Curtiss has no desire to marry. Then he meets Meg Buffington; rather, he meets Ms
Buffy,
Meg's alter ego. Soon he can't help wondering how two people so perfect for each other are still
so
wrong for each other. Meg copes with the surprises, disappointments and joys in life all one way,
with humor. Her quips and jokes through four years of college resulted in a dare that leads to her
amateur performance at Funny Bones, a local comedy club. Her expert delivery and originality not
only capture the attention of the club owner, but also captures the attention of a sexy stranger in
the
audience. But Curtiss finds himself at once attracted and repelled by the funny woman. His lack of
a
sense of humor tragically inhibits his ability to appreciate Meg's funny alter ego, Ms Buffy. Yet he
can't help appreciate the capable, astute, challenging Meg. Meg quickly realizes that Curtiss
expects
her to learn his life, including overcoming her fear of water, while he refuses to learn to laugh. But
the electricity between them keeps her from walking away from his solemn demeanor, though she
knows he deserves it. Indeed, Curtiss' mixed signals reveal his own desire and frustration when it
comes to Meg. She represents all that his father taught him was incompatible with business. She
also
represents all he's ever wanted in a woman. With the crisp delivery of an expert comedian, author
Jane Bierce delivers a rollicking romance in Funny Business. Meg never compromises her ability
to
make people life, refusing to change to capture the man she loves. Bravo! These opposites
explode
across the page, deftly mixing one liners and emotional intensity in a wonderfully amusing read.
Further, Meg's a terrific heroine, refusing to compromise any of her ailities, whether it be with
computers or jokes, and never settling for less than what she deserves. Watching the growth of
this
hero also provides humorous entertainment too good to miss. While a few details seem unlikely,
or
example, Meg's only visited one comedy club in her rather large city, they don't detract from the
entertainment. Highly recommended.
The Duchess of Ophir Creek
Judith B. Glad
Awe-Struck E-Books
2458 Cherry Street, Dubuque, IA 52001
ISBN 158749382, eBook/Multiple Formats
Very highly recommended Historical Romance
In the year 1862, Silas Dewitt searches in the Idaho Territory for the long-lost treasure he stowed
in
a cave along the canyons fifteen years ago. Unfortunately, the land has known many changes, and
without a map he can't seem to find the specific landmarks that will lead him to his fortune. When
he
finds it, the money will go to Emmet Lachlan and his wife, the couple who raised him, to secure a
comfortable old age. He quickly resigns himself to remaining in the nearby town, newly built when
gold was discovered, until he can find the cave. While in town, Silas witnesses the abuse of two
Chinese children, whom he rescues. The men who picked on the children resent foreigners, and
now
Silas. The children, Soomey and Tao Ni were working in the mining town for Li Ching before
coming into Silas' care. Having spent years sailing, Silas understands other cultures, and respects
the
Chinese. But while he believes he's rescued two young boys, he's actually rescued a young boy
and a
girl in disguise. When Sooney reveals her secret, Silas becomes even more determined to protect
the
children from the harsh miners who resent the hard-working Chinese. Silas feels guilty for the
strong
attraction he begins to feel for the girl. Although she protests that she's a woman, he doesn't
believe
one so small and seemingly innocent could be grown. Soomey, however, has experience beyond
her
years having endured years of bondage and the deviated sexual appetites of her masters. She's
intensely loyal to the kind man she's named Boss, and baffled as to why he refuses to bed her.
Further, Soomey is determined to earn her keep while protecting his back from townsmen who
wish
him ill, especially Wilf, Eli Jenkins and Vester. These dangerous men suspect Silas of keeping
valuable secrets because he doesn't claim land and pan for gold like the rest of the miners. Judith
B.
Glad creates a daring adventure in The Duchess Of Ophir Creek. The tale remains refreshingly
original as Glad explores the plight of this beautiful oriental woman, from savageabuse to the
mining
town and protection of Silas. With sharply realized characterizations, fierce motivations, and a
fast
paced plot, The Duchess Of Ophir Creek breaks new ground. Indeed, Glad gracefully exploits the
added freedoms of epublishing to create a tale that reaches far beyond mainstream in a
wonderfully
created novel that's a real keeper. Very highly recommended.
Teacher Teacher
Barbara Cary
Awe-Struck E-Books
2458 Cherry Street, Dubuque, IA 52001
ISBN 1587490684, eBook/Multiple Formats, Price: $4.50
Highly recommended Romance
Kindergarten teacher Catherine Munro doesn't anticipate school board member Tom Flannery's
objections to his daughter Megan's participation in an upcoming play. He suspects that Cate made
Megan the lead in the play in order to prove a point since he objects to funding the fine arts
program. Indeed, Tom would prefer to eliminate superfluous school activities from the agenda
and
get back to the basics, like teaching children like his daughter how to read. Consequently, Tom is
the
man who wants to eliminate Cate's job. A single mother who tutors in the evening, Cate has not
been active regarding school board meetings, and since she was hired late in the school year, has
not
crossed paths with Tom. Cate is outraged that Tom would question her integrity by accusing her
of
manipulating the situation with Megan for her own purposes. She's also offended that he doesn't
believe her when she explains that only recognizes his name as the father of one of her students.
Worse, even as they clash, Cate can't ignore the electrical attraction between them. But ignore she
must, since a relationship could pose a conflict of interest. Author Barbara Carey skillfully weaves
strong emotions, humor, and a fascinating plot into Teacher, Teacher. While the tone of the novel
is
light, beneath the surface lays a deeper issue as the heroine explains the values of extracurricular
activities in the school system. Certainly, this issue sets the couple up for major conflict. But even
as
this debate provides the impetus to bring the hero and heroine together, as well dramatic
transformation, it also provokes reflection on the part of the reader. Furthermore, Cate and Tom
are
gratifyingly mature characters facing realistic challenges with humor, intelligence and grace.
Consequently, Teacher, Teacher is a marvelous read for romance lovers who seek a lighthearted,
fun
read. Highly recommended.
David's Promise
Polly Bolack
Awe-Struck Books
2458 Cherry Street, Dubuque, IA 52001
ISBN 1587490722, eBook/Multiple Formats
Winner WordWeaving Award for Excellence: Inspirational Romance
Captain Rebecca Higgins, of the ship The Outrageous Lady, lives up to her vow to do one
outrageous thing a day. But snakes, iguanas, and shipwrecks may be a bit over minister David
Stone's head. He's going to run out of patience for this outrageous lady even before he runs out of
suits. Indeed, Becca is the most unlikely candidate for a minister's wife imaginable. As for
corporate
wife, the idea is unfathomable. She much prefers sunsets and pelicans to champagne and caviar.
God
certainly chose an outrageous challenge by placing her so squarely in David's life. David has
resigned
his corporate life, complete with caviar, Italian silk suits and a six-figure paycheck to move to
Gulf
Port, Florida to fulfill his calling as a minister. Immediately upon arrival, however, he finds his to
promise to God challenged. He'd burned his little black book with a vow to give up romantic
relationships with women for one year, and now he's confronted by the greatest temptation he's
ever
encountered. Maybe Becca wants him because he perfectly matches her childhood fantasy of her
dream sea captain. Maybe she wants the forbidden. Regardless of the cause of her attraction,
Becca's
torn by David's mixed signals and unmistakable appeal. He's everything she's ever admired in a
man:
honest, intelligent and caring. But he's a preacher. And her memories of her mother's role as
preacher's wife are enough to keep Becca from wanting the position of a small-town preacher's
wife.
An unexpected delight, David's Promise will capture readers' hearts with its delectable
characterizations and outrageous antics. Becca's an unlikely preacher's wife, with a special
appreciation of miracles and sunsets. David's a man seeking his identity, learning to balance his
talents and with his gifts. Secondary characters are equally enchanting, especially Aunt Sarah, a
would-be marriage broker, and Miss Agnes, the scavenging pelican, who keep the tone light and
the
laughs coming. The resolution is especially pleasing, with an unexpected twist certain to make
reaers
laugh. Very highly recommended.
Sea of Hope
Penelope Marzec
Awe-struck Books
2458 Cherry Street, Dubuque, IA 52001
ISBN 1587490447, eBook/Multiple Formats
Poignant -- Very highly recommened Contemporary Inspirational
Prodigal daughter Doria Hanrahan returns home too late to spend time with her dying father.
She'd
never liked Port Harbor, New Jersey, a sleeping fishing town with little by way of entertainment
but
gossip. Indeed, a vicious rumor made high school exceedingly painful, and while she also grieved
the
death of her mother, Doria fled for the bright lights of New York. There her position as a chef
allowed her to indulge dreams of expensive entertainment and clothes. Then she's mugged and
catches her boyfriend cheating on her. Doria's father had promised to sell his fishing trawler and
give
her the money to start her own restaurant. But the final year of his life, Murray Santoro and her
father grew close. The will left the trawler to Murray, a doctor accused of murder. Now Doria
resents the man for spending the final year with her father because she feels guilty, believing she
should have been the one to care for him. Despite Murray's gentle, caring ways with babies and
the
sick, Doria believes the worst of him. Doria's father taught Murray the value of faith. As his court
day approaches, he struggles to hold the belief that the older man's presence had made easy. Ed
always encouraged Murray to trust in God and left Him take care of everything. Little does
Murray
suspect that Ed's wounded daughter struggles with a similar crisis of faith. But as circumstances
bring them closer together, they both have the opportunity to rediscover their God as well as
allow
love to grow between them. Author Penelope Marzec appropriately chooses a modern day fishing
village for this gentle inspirational romance that allows these strong will characters to rediscover
faith. Like the disciples in the bible, these characters struggle with painful circumstance to build
love
for God. The boat becomes the center of their struggles, representing peace for Murray and a
means
to an end for Doria. Yet together, it becomes the symbol of healing and peace. Very highly
recommended.
Dissent in Real Time
Cathy McCarthy
Awe-struck Books
2458 Cherry Street, Dubuque, IA 52001
ISBN 1587490501, eBook/Multiple Formats
Thought provoking -- Recommended Science Fiction
The Canadian's newly developed Central Computer Information System (CCIS) accesses all
personal
data on every citizen from one location. Unique Identifiers (UI) replace names. The creator of this
system, Owen Teauge, now called Seventy-eighty nine, Programmer Level Ten, places a virus in
the
system when he comes to understand that business leaders and other power brokers can access
and
utilize this information for their own purposes. Owen would have scrubbed the project had he
understood its implications sooner. But at the time he was too na‹ve to understand the
implications
of putting so much power in the hands of so few. The government is powerless against the deeply
embedded virus that can wipe clean all of the UIs and replace them with a random allocation of
names, which then makes the database useless. The government conducts a massive search for the
culprit, who eventually turns himself in. Only a public trial will bring sufficient media coverage so
that the average citizen can understand the ramifications of CCIS. Owen risks torture and death to
publicize CCIS in such a way. In an effort to appear to support justice, the government brings in a
high profile lawyer to act as Teague's defense counsel. This lawyer's UI is replaced by the name
Eleni, and her motivation quickly moves from advancement of her own career to love for the
defendant. The premise for Dissent In Real Time has been repeated frequently by such authors as
George Orwell and especially since the advent of the World Wide Web. Nonetheless, author
Cathy
McCarthy uses this well-worn plot to great effect, breathing freshness into its thematic content.
The
characters are multifaceted, and the choice of numerical names is used to great effect. However,
the
tone of the novel distances the reader from its characters, making it difficult to sympathize with
those whose identity is restricted to a number. Occasionally the narrative also slows too much,
particularly during the trial. On the other hand, McCarthy masterfully uses such devices as
flashbacs,
never allowing the narrative to spin out of control as many authors do with such devices. Indeed,
her
careful control of the narrative results in a thought provoking that comes recommended.
Kiss the Past Goodbye
Joyce and Jim Lavene
Wordbeams
P.O. Box 23415, Portland, OR 97281-3415
ISBN 1587850982, eBook/Multiple Formats
Secrets and murder -- Very highly recommended Romantic Suspense
Powerful, life altering secrets bind Ryan Matthews and Jaimie Lawrence in Kiss The Past
Goodbye.
Neither questions the other's history fearing the necessity of revealing their own painful history.
But
the past rises with a vengeance when police interrupt the ceremony to put Jaimie in jail for
murder.
When her fianc‚ arrives at the police station, claiming to be a lawyer, Jaimie wants to know what
else he never told her. After all, she knew him as gentleman rose farmer, not a cutthroat ex-DA.
But
Jaimie conceals her own secrets about the days before she owned her coffee shop -- the days
when
she worked as a doctor in the Emergency room. Indeed, not only did she change her looks, her
job,
and her living circumstances, but she also changed her name. The police want to know why.
Authors
Joyce and Jim Lavene gleefully lead readers through a merry chase following a twisted maze of
clues, false trails, and tangled motivation in Kiss The Past Goodbye. With their characteristic flair
for
the dramatic, this plot grips readers' attention first page and never turns loose. Add this one to the
keeper shelf; with a finely honed mystery with dynamic characterization, heated passion, and
unexpected entanglements, Kiss The Past Goodbye comes very highly recommended.
Drug Abuse: One Family's Story
An Anonymous Mother & Son
Wordbeams
P.O. Box 23415, Portland, OR 97281-3415
ISBN 1587850338, eBook/Multiple Formats
Highly recommended Self-help/Family
Drug Abuse: One Family's Story by An Anonymous Mother & Son is a courageous and useful
tool
in the fight against drug abuse. The two perspectives provide insight into recognizing the
dangerous
symptoms of this insidious disease. The authors preface the book with the comment that is not
intended to be in depth documentation; rather it is one family's account of their teen's struggle
with
drugs. This teen's problem began in boarding school. The mother discusses the manipulations
common to drug abuse, including her son's denial of the problem, change of circumstances to
enable
the disease, and the frightening escalation of tension between family members. Change in friends
and
interests became a clear indication of his drug usage. To ensure sobriety, this family resorted to
drug
tests on the son, which eventually led to an indication of escalation of the son's drug usage as well
as
a forced resolution when tests proved conclusively how their son's manipulations had affected
previous test results. This mother decided to write her story because most of the literature she
encountered dealt with older age ranges that have "hit bottom." Her son was seventeen when they
sought treatment. Indeed, not all drug users must "hit rock bottom" in order to begin recovery.
Teens especially can arrest this disease when it's caught early, as shown by this teen son who has
three years of recovery. Despite his recovery, however, the teen's account of his drug usage and
recovery is weak. Drug Abuse reveals a personal battle and is to be commended. Unfortunately,
the
treatment is somewhat superficial, and would have benefited from a bit more detail. This reviewer
felt that the account skims the surface, rather than delving into the deep emotional implications
drug
abuse has on the user as well as the family. Nor does it provide a lot of concrete examples of
identifying drug usage, underscoring the difficulty of isolating the cause of teen's changes in
behavior
and attitude. This is nonetheless a powerful record of a family in recovery hat shares just enough
to
help others to identify with the illness and prevent that feeling of isolation so common to families
fighting this illness. Indeed, Drug Abuse is a marvelous beginning for families seeking answers and
understanding. Also included are valuable links and references to find more information. Highly
recommended.
A Need to Know
Dan Murr
Clocktower Books
6549 Mission Gorge Road, Box 260, San Diego, California 92120
ISBN 0743300947, eBook/Multiple Formats, 164 pages
Highly recommended Military Suspense
Fishing had always been one of Fred Scott's favorite past-times. Living in Destin, Fred heads to
the
water one Fourth of July holiday weekend, looking forward to few hours on the water before
joining
his family for the holiday celebrations. But Fred doesn't return from this trip; instead, he's
murdered
in cold blood when he witnesses two hunter/killer Soviet submarines lurking in the water off the
Florida Panhandle. Now authorities are left to wonder why those submarines would be in the
Gulf.
As American military leaders speculate on the purpose of the subs' location, Commander Dean
White finds himself drawn into the intrigue. White suggests that the Soviets seek an American
testing area. Initially he doesn't know that the Soviet have suspicions of American Stealth
bombers
and are seeking proof. As espionage and counter intelligence mingle, author Dan Murr spins a tale
of
intrigue, technology, and danger. With richly developed characterizations and questions of loyalty,
he leads the reader into a world where every fact is questioned and each character functions on "a
need to know" basis. A military thriller based on a true-life incident in Florida, A Need To Know
raises frightening questions regarding what the public needs to know about threats to the United
States. Although these events occurred during the Cold War, the questions raised are especially
relevant to savvy readers reflecting on current world events. Murr writes with startling insight into
the political and civilian lives affected by even the smallest occurrence. Riveting and chilling, A
Need
To Know comes highly recommended.
A Need to Know
Dan Murr
Clocktower Books
6549 Mission Gorge Road, Box 260, San Diego, California 92120
ISBN 0743300947, eBook/Multiple Formats, 164 pages
Highly recommended Military Suspense
Fishing had always been one of Fred Scott's favorite past-times. Living in Destin, Fred heads to
the
water one Fourth of July holiday weekend, looking forward to few hours on the water before
joining
his family for the holiday celebrations. But Fred doesn't return from this trip; instead, he's
murdered
in cold blood when he witnesses two hunter/killer Soviet submarines lurking in the water off the
Florida Panhandle. Now authorities are left to wonder why those submarines would be in the
Gulf.
As American military leaders speculate on the purpose of the subs' location, Commander Dean
White finds himself drawn into the intrigue. White suggests that the Soviets seek an American
testing area. Initially he doesn't know that the Soviet have suspicions of American Stealth
bombers
and are seeking proof. As espionage and counter intelligence mingle, author Dan Murr spins a tale
of
intrigue, technology, and danger. With richly developed characterizations and questions of loyalty,
he leads the reader into a world where every fact is questioned and each character functions on "a
need to know" basis. A military thriller based on a true-life incident in Florida, A Need To Know
raises frightening questions regarding what the public needs to know about threats to the United
States. Although these events occurred during the Cold War, the questions raised are especially
relevant to savvy readers reflecting on current world events. Murr writes with startling insight into
the political and civilian lives affected by even the smallest occurrence. Riveting and chilling, A
Need
To Know comes highly recommended.
Before/Beyond
Patrick Welch
Crossroads Publications
806 N Black St, Silver City, NM 88061
ISBN 158338359X, eBook/Multiple Formats
Very highly recommended Speculative Fiction Anthology
One of the most powerful voices of the net presents a collection of short stories in
BEFORE/BEYOND. With his characteristic punchy style and darkly imaginative wit, Patrick
Welch
creates varying worlds that draw from paranormal, science fiction, and outrageous humor and
intelligence. Many of these stories were previously published to various online zines. The
following
are a few of this reviewer's favorites: "A Small Matter of Murder": A shopkeeper solves a murder
with the aid of a leprechaun. "The Ganymede Incident": A magician uses alchemy to save the
universe from ravaging gargoyles. "The Most Wonderful Gift": Ancient myths gain a new twist
regarding Pandora's box. Other tales include feature interplanetary trade, a remarkable train
station,
and other attention-grabbing characters and places. The result is an outstanding short story
collection with something for everyone. This is another well-written volume from Pat Welch and
Crossroads Publishing. As the growth of ebooks continues, expect Pat Welch's name to be at the
forefront. If you've read Welch before, you are in for a treat. If this is your first taste, you will be
back for more.
My Rebel Belle
Pamela Cummings
RFI West
9920 South Rural Road, PMB 107, Suite 108, Tempe, AZ 85248
ISBN 158697355X, eBook/Multiple Formats
Highly recommended Historical Romance
When a bullet strikes Union Major Leander Cabot Brooks during an engagement with the enemy,
he
falls into a ravine in Culpeper County, Virginia, where he might have died without the kind of aid
of
southern women. The women, led by Marabelle Talbot, Mara, know that sending this wounded
soldier to a prison camp would be tantamount to a death sentence. These southern women nurse
him
back to health despite the danger his presence poses to their own safety. Mara feels badly about
putting childhood friend Alec Heywood off regarding marriage. But even a two year engagement
has failed to elicit the "breathless yearning" her friends describe. She's used the chaos and
destruction of the war as an excuse to put him off. It doesn't help that when he's done his duty to
the
Rebels that she'll "never have to worry your pretty little head about planting schedules or account
books again." Frankly, Mara prefers the duties of a manager to the simpering expected of fine
southern women. Consequently, Lee's talk of northern feminine women who manage to be
marvelous conversationalists sparks Mara's imagination. As Lee and Mara argue the War they
also
find themselves falling in love. But Lee could never live in the South, and Mara is engaged to
another man. My Rebel Belle boldly confronts the emotional entanglements of the Civil War, from
a
couple who falls in love but are from opposite sides of the cause, to the harsh decisions that must
be
made by loyal slaves who love those they serve, yet desire freedom for themselves and for their
children. As both sides of the conflict argue their beliefs, readers will find themselves entranced
with
the vivid characterizations and struggles faced. Mara's desire to overcome conventional
prohibitions
and take control of her life, following her own code of honor and morality, results in a
sympathetic
and endearing character. Combined with surprising plot twists and a brilliantly realized historical
background, My Rebel Belle comes highly recommended.
New Lodge Affair
A. J. Russo
RFI West
#431 5515 N 7th Street, Suite 5, Phoenix AZ 85014
ISBN 1586972766, eBook/Multiple Formats
Recommended Historic Suspense
The tragic conflicts between the Catholics and the Protestants in Northern Ireland from 1947 to
1991 become the focus of author A.J. Russo's New Lodge Affair. Through the story of two
families,
the Protestant Redmonds and the Catholic Currys, Russo exposes the power prejudice to destroy.
As she stares out the window of her taxi, American Doctor Megan McGrath and her niece Ann
don't
know of the conspiracy that will bring her to the New Lodge area of Belfast to heal unionist
terrorist
Garrett Redmond. All it takes is a child running into the road to stop the taxi long enough to
allow
her kidnappers into the vehicle. While being held, Ann begins a relationship with Redmond's
grandson. In exchange for her assistance in the kidnapping, Mary Curry's son Sean will be
released
from prison. In 1947, Garrett Redmond orders that a local schoolteacher be taught a lesson for
trying to aid the Catholic cause. Unfortunately, he can't prevent violence and two students are
accidentally shot as the teacher escapes around the side of the school. Young Sean Curry holds
his
sister as she bleeds to death. Nightmares of the day will haunt him the rest of his life. By 1968
Sean
is one of the few Catholics to hold a seat in Parliament. When a peaceful demonstration for
Catholic
rights ends in violence, he's called a martyr following his imprisonment. Shortly thereafter, a
bombing of a pub results in his father's death just after Sean glimpses Redmond. While
imprisoned,
Sean learns that Redmond was involved in the death of both his sister and his father. Now
wheelchair bound and incarcerated, Sean abandons his non-violent position in exchange for
retribution. New Lodge Affair successfully demonstrates the destruction of a country because of
religious prejudice. Unfortunately, the plot is weakened with choppy, short chapters more
appropriate for journalist prose than a novel. Nevertheless, Russo's brisk prose creates a startling
and informative message, bringing history to life with vividness, as bombings and other acts of
violence undecut the effort of those who would prefer non-violent solutions. A bleak and tragic
account of Irish history, New Lodge Affair comes recommended.
Tales of the Spirit of Hope, Love & Redemption
Various Authors
RFI West
#431 5515 N 7th Street, Suite 5, Phoenix AZ 85014
ISBN 1586973886, eBook/Multiple Formats, Download $4.95
Winner of the WordWeaving Award for Excellence: Cross-Genre
On July 19, 1998, eight-year old Christin Lamb was abducted from her hometown in Wyoming,
raped, and murdered. Her aunt, romance author Carolyn Lampman, established a non-profit
corporation in her memory with the goal of supporting parents of other children who have been
killed or murdered (http://clamb.org). Now ten authors and RFI West, Inc. are donating their
work
in memory of this slain child. Each contributes a tale of varying genres with unifying themes of
hope,
love or redemption. "Esprit De Corps" by Trace Edward Zaber: As thousands of eyes watch to
prove or disprove her father right, actress Eden Napier Parkhurst steps beyond the role her father
demanded that she fill. "Careless Wishes" by Michelle Buckman: Granted his wishes, Jeff
McGavish
rediscovers the joy of family. "This Old Dog" by Joellen Conger: An unexpected side trip in
Mexico
provides Tanya acceptance from a four-legged friend who grieves for his previous mistress.
"Rain"
by Frances Evlin: Rowena Quigley saves dribbles of clean used water for a favorite apple tree,
determined to keep it alive because roots of all kinds need rain. "Legacy of Old Reliable" by
Rekha
Ambardar: A poignant link to the past brings healing after a fifty-year old programmer receives a
pink slip and returns to his roots. "Ashlynn" by Melanie Billings: When anger takes form, only
love
can find a way. "Final Escape" by Jade Haley: Penned by a twelve-year-old author, this fabulous
tale
of adventure seems especially appropriate to an anthology devoted to such a noble purpose. "The
Barrels" by JennaKay Francis: The choice is to live or die. Redemption is the gift. "Amy's
Christmas
Wish" by Kay LeGrand: Suicide seems a logical solution to police officer Georgia Madison's
incredible pain until she meets a nine-year-old with the power to transform her world. "The
Groundbreaking" by Sharon Mackey: Someone justifiably shot a cruel man, and young Hazel
believes in the powers of justice. The whisper of ages past, the song of tree frogs and hot
southern
nights juxtapose umultuous relationships and self-discovery in Tales Of The Spirit Of Hope, Love
&
Redemption. Youth, age, grief, and joy paint the spectrum of these powerful collective voices.
These
stories will make you smile, make you cry, and remind you to believe in the power of redemption
and love. A stunning collection, Tales Of The Spirit Of Hope, Love & Redemption is a keeper
that
comes very highly recommended.
Approaching Danger
June Shaw
RFI West
#431 5515 N 7th Street, Suite 5, Phoenix AZ 85014
ISBN 1586972405, eBook/Multiple Formats
Highly recommended Romantic Suspense
When she was nine, Jolene Young attended a friend's birthday party. A freak lightening bolt fatally
struck another child. Jo's mother, never the most reliable mother in the best of circumstances, was
unreachable, so Jo went home with another child to wait for her mother. The whispered
conversation of her friend's parents, the absence of her mother, and the horror of the incident
leave
her with a mindless terror of storms. When her younger brother Mark is placed on dialysis, Jo
leaves
her job and her dreams to return to the coast and care for him. When Mark was diagnosed, their
father left yet again, but this time never coming back. Their mother exists in perpetual expectation
of
his imminent return, compulsively keeping the house and her appearance perfect to satisfy his
demands. As a result, Jo finds herself becoming the mother to her own mother as well as her
brother, struggling with financial issues, emotional challenges, and physical demands of Mark's
condition. Little does she suspect that someone watches, drawn to her fear and stress. Chapters
intersperse the account of Jo's life, in which the reader glimpses the exchanges between a stalker
and
his therapist. The stalker is never identified, but his crimes become frighteningly clear, including
the
murders and rapes of which he was never convicted. The stalker's interior monologue is even
more
ominous as he manipulates the information he's given in treatment to prevent the exposure of his
deadly plans. The twisted evil he perpetrates will leave the reader breathless as he moves toward
Jo,
his intended victim, feeding on her fear. Even as he sends innocuous warnings to her, Jo doesn't
suspect the Approaching Danger in more than the storms. Readers who enjoy Mary Higgins Clark
well welcome June Shaw's Approaching Danger. With a classic touch, Shaw allows the tension to
mount as evil lurks insidiously in the shadows, keeping the reader always on edge. Each character
is
fully realized, and perhaps the most heart rendering character is young Mark whose best frend
Charley is his dialysis machine. In addition, the surprising conclusion is wonderful. Highly
Recommended.
Cindy Penn, Reviewer
http://wordweaving.com
Klausner's Bookshelf
Funeral In Blue
Anne Perry
Ballantine
Oct 2001, $25.00, 352 pp. ISBN: 0345440013
Victorian era private investigator William Monk lost his memory in a London accident six years
ago.
He remade himself and his wife Hester is very proud of how her beloved has dealt with adversity.
Hester studied nursing under Nightingale and assists surgeon Kristian Beck in the operating room.
When Kristian's wife and a model are killed in an artist's studio, Hester prevails upon Monk to
investigate so that any stigma to her employer's name is removed. Unfortunately, Monk finds no
evidence to clear him. Instead he finds many reasons why Kristian would want to kill his wife. The
police arrest the doctor but his true friends rally around him and force Monk to dig deeper. Anne
Perry has written another fine mystery that captures the essence of Victorian England. Monk is at
his
best when he searches for the truth even if he is the only outside the police who feels Kristian
murdered his spouse. Hester humanizes Monk by showing his compassionate side. Place Funeral
In
Blue on your book-shopping list if you want to read an excellent historical mystery by a talented
author.
The Hole
Guy Burt
Ballantine
Oct 2001, $19.00, 160 pp. ISBN: 0345446542
It is vacation time and the parents believe their children are on a field trip while the school
administrators assume the six went home. Instead, the sextet decides to perform a human
experiment. Five of them (Frankie, Goeff, Alex, Mike, and Liz) will climb into a forgotten "Hole"
in
a building in a neglected section of the massive school. The sixth Martyn will shut the door to the
cellar to lock the quintet inside, but come back three days later to release the participants from the
Hole. They would be heroes among their peers for this glorious prank. During the volunteer stage
of
their captivity, the five students discuss their dreams and fears. However, as the time for freedom
arrives and passes without Martyn opening the cellar door, the teens panic fearing death. They
become desperate and start doing ugly things in hopes that someone will save them from the
ordeal.
The Hole is a strong psychological thriller that will remind readers of the Lord of the Flies, but
though quite good is not at that level of excellence. The story line is told in two voices. A
therapist-narrator working with the survivor who is writing her story down as part of her healing.
This technique takes away from the tension because the audience knows the results of the ordeal
early on. Still, Guy Burt writes a taut, albeit slim thriller that will please those readers who enjoy
dark psychological tales of human failure.
24/7
Jim Brown
Ballantine
Nov 2001, $24.95, 384 pp. ISBN: 0345446976
24/7 is America's latest reality television show where twelve contestants are flown to the deserted
island of Vassa in the Caribbean. Challenges confront each participant and every three days the
audience votes on which person is eliminated. The final survivor wins two million dollars and his
or
her heart's desire. Dana Kirsten, a last minute substitute, wants to win because she has a
ten-year-old
daughter living on borrowed time with a doomsday clock ticking away if she fails to obtain
experimental treatment in Switzerland. On the first day of the stay at Vassa, the TV people are all
killed by a mysterious ailment. A voice calling itself Control informs the contestants that an
Ebola-like virus infects them all. On the day that a contestant is scheduled to be eliminated, a
temporary antidote will be administered to the survivors. The winner will gain the ultimate prize,
his
or her life. This mind-boggling thriller is a technologically aged version of Agatha Christie's "And
Then There Were None". Jim Brown has written a complex fast-paced story line populated by
3-dimensional characters. The audience will root for some of the cast members to escape death
and
will feel sad when many do not. This novel contains more twists and turns than a meandering river
or a mountain road.
Death Is A Cabaret
Deborah Morgan
Berkley
Nov 2001, $5.99, 240 pp. ISBN: 0425182029
Former FBI agent Jeff Talbot used to work cases involving stolen antiquities for the agency. Now
he
supplements his retirement income by working as a picker who visits estate and yard sales to
purchase collectibles and antiquities for a select group of storeowners and other clients. His only
unfulfilled wish is that his beloved wife Sheila would accompany him on his ventures, but
agoraphobia keeps her home. Jeff heads to Mackinac Island off the coast of Michigan for an
estate
sale. He bids on a cabaret set for Seattle client Blanche Applby, owner of All Things Old. When
two
people including the auctioneer are murdered, at the invitation of the local police Jeff reverts back
to
the old days to investigate the homicides. Readers will receive an insider view of the cutthroat
competitiveness of the antique business world. The characters seem authentic especially the hero
who many female readers will measure their significant other against (mine holds up nicely).
Death Is
A Cabaret includes a fascinating mystery that enables the audience to become an intricate part of
the
plot and will surely bring acclaim to Deborah Morgan.
Tall, Dead, And Handsome
Annie Griffin
Berkley
Nov 2001, $6.50, 304 pp. ISBN: 0425182231
Just North of San Francisco in Marin County, Hill Creek is a weird combination of chic and New
Age. Though everyone is wealthy, harmony does not exist. Renowned womanizer Mayor Alex
Postman supports having Signatech establish facilities in the town in order to provide new jobs
and
money, but Hannah Malloy believes the firm will spoil the small town atmosphere. Hannah plans
to
run for mayor against Alex unless he changes his position. At a fund-raiser, Hannah intends to
plead
with Alex, but before she can, someone kills him. Another mayoral candidate is found dead in the
back of Hannah's truck. The police look at Hannah as the prime suspect in both homicides. With
the
help of her sister Kiki, Hannah begins her own investigation in order to clear her name before they
throw the book at her. Hill Creek is the type of place people like to visit to see if the townsfolk
are
as eccentric and zany as described in Tall, Dead, And Handsome. Kiki and Hannah trade quips
and
insults at a pace that would overwhelm Abbot and Costello, but their shared love for one another
still shines through the tale. This who-done-is a fun to read amateur sleuth novel that
demonstrates
that Annie Griffin knows how to write an exciting, humorous puzzler.
Secret Of The Wolf
Susan Krinard
Berkley
Oct 2001, $6.99, 416 pp. ISBN: 0425181995
Near her family's vineyards in Napa Valley, Dr. Johanna Schell provides a haven for those plagued
with mental anguish. Suffering Quentin Forster stumbles into Johanna's sanctuary, but suffers
from
amnesia with some glimpses of his past. Quentin knows he is on the run, but why and from whom
remains blank. She offers the tormented yet compassionate man refuge and he grasps at her
overture. Joanna and Quentin begin to fall in love even as she tries to help him with whatever
hidden
tortures wrack his mind. However, his past arrives in her shelter causing perilous havoc for
everyone
there and under her hypnotic spell The Secret Of The Wolf is released. If Johanna and Quentin
somehow survive his past, can two extraordinary individuals cross specie lines find a lifetime of
happiness even as love flows freely between them? The third Susan Krinard werewolf romance
(see
Touch Of The Wolf and Once A Wolf) is an exciting supernatural tale that will haunt readers long
after the novel is done. The story line is loaded with plenty of otherworldly action that will thrill
horror fans yet finds room for a strong ardent relationship between Johanna and Quentin. Ms.
Krinard has another howling success that will send her back to her normal spot on the bestseller
lists.
My Heart Stood Still
Lynn Kurland
Berkley
Oct 2001, $6.99, 448 pp. ISBN: 0425181979
In 1382 on the Border, her half-brother and their father tell her to go with the Englishman because
she has been bartered to forge an ally for the clan. They insist he will treat her right, but instead all
he wants is the secrets of her father's keep. Since she knows nothing, the Englishman murders
Iolanthe MacLeod even as she lies thinking will nobody remember her name. As she dies Iolanthe
believes that one day her love will come to free her. In 2001 Maine, Thomas MacLeod McKinnon
feels he can do anything. His college degree at twenty, his Manhattan multimillion-dollar business,
and his feats at mountain climbing prove he is right. He now owns a dilapidated Scottish castle,
which he has decided to renovate. However, when he arrives at his new abode, Thomas
surprisingly
meets the ghost of Iolanthe. The Yank and the medieval Scottish spirit fall in love, but though he
may be the man she waited for all these centuries, their chances for a relationship together seems
impossible. Lynn Kurland is attaining quite a reputation for her paranormal/time travel romances.
Her newest entry, My Heart Stood Still, is an engaging ghostly love story that her audience will
devour. The tale is warm as Thomas struggles to find a way to be with his soul mate, who shares
his
desperate feelings. Ms. Kurland provides another powerful notch to her high standing among
sub-genre readers with this entertaining novel that showcases her abilities to provide fans with
quite
a story.
Dream Mountain
Gena Hale
Onyx
Oct 2001, $6.99, 256 pp. ISBN: 0451410033
Uncle Sean dumped his niece on the top of the Colorado mountain before returning to Denver
allegedly for a short emergency. Five days later Delaney Arden plans to kill her relative who she
believes has not returned due to a snowstorm isolating her. When she sees a bear attack her
garbage
and come towards her, Laney fires her weapon only to realize she has hit a man dressed in a fur
coat. She brings the wounded male into her cabin to take care of his wound. Gareth Tremayne
thinks Laney is one of his enemies who somehow have found him because her and the hitman's
surname the same. However, her actions are contrary to what the Shandian Corporation would do
if
they caught "Bigfoot". Still he trusts no one including himself especially since he finds Laney so
attractive. She is frustrated with him because she has never desired a man before like she does
"Joe"
as she calls him who obviously suspects her of something devious. Dream Mountain is an
engaging
romantic suspense that returns readers to the same locale and villainous corporation as the
exciting
Paradise Island. The story line is fast-paced, but allows character development of the isolated lead
duet. Those sub-genre fans that have not already done so will want to read Gena Hale's first tale
in
this trilogy because Paradise Island is also a non-stop action contemporary thriller.
The Killing Bee
Matt Witten
Signet
Nov 2001, $6.50, 256 pp. ISBN: 0451204603
After years of futiley trying to sell literary books to publishers and relevant screenplays to studios,
author Jacob Burns sells a schlock disaster movie. The interested film company pays Jacob $3
million. Now he remains at home uninterested in writing, but occasionally dabbles in homicide
investigations. One case that he finds interesting involves Laura Braithwaite, accused of killing a
school principal. Jacob, Laura and several other parents battled with the principal in an effort to
have
their children placed in the gifted class, but the administrator refused insisting they failed to meet
the
strict requirements. Jacob begins making inquiries and soon realizes a lot of people had the motive
to kill the unyielding principal. His efforts turn too enthusiastic so if he wants to stay out of jail he
better find the culprit. Matt Witten continues his winning series with The Killing Bee, an excellent
mystery that will be fully appreciated by anyone whoever raised a child. The gentle hero cares
because he believes in justice and willingly places himself in jeopardy to make it happen. This
entertaining amateur sleuth novel is a winner by anyone's standard.
The Promise
May McGoldrick
Signet
Sep 2001, $6.99, 352 pp. ISBN: 0451204492
In 1760 London, tutor Rebecca Neville has no family to protect her when her employer Sir
Charles
Hartington accuses her of stealing and tries to obtain sexual favors. Pretending to accept his offer,
Rebecca bashes her odious, suitor in the head. Believing she killed Charles, Rebecca flees,
escaping
in a passing carriage carrying a very weak Elizabeth Wakefield and her one day old son James.
Elizabeth sensing a fellow desperado brings Rebecca to America with her and her son. A decade
later, Elizabeth id dead, Rebecca has raised the partially deaf Jamey in the colonies as her beloved
child. However, Sir Oliver Birch arrives to take James back to England where his father the Earl
of
Stanhope can raise his heir. Though she does not want to return to London, a reluctant Rebecca
accompanies her Jamey back to his rightful position. In England, Rebecca and Stanmore begin to
fall
in love though they disagree about what is good for his son. However, the past surfaces leaving a
future together seemingly grim or impossible. The Promise is a powerful Georgian romance that
focuses on the rights of women in eighteenth century England. The story line is well written as
May
McGoldrick uses her plot to tell the plight of females rather than just espousing and preaching her
theme. The characters make the tale as Rebecca is a heroine willing to go to prison to insure "her
cherished son" is safe and loved. Readers will strike gold with this fabulous historical
romance.
Heaven Sent
Rachel Wilson
Jove
Sep 2001, $5.99, 309 pp. ISBN: 0515131814
In 1897 San Angelica, California, Callida Prophet serves as the rural postal carrier for the town.
When little Becky Lockheart began to write letters to her recently deceased mother, Callie is
stunned by the child's grief and though a felony, she reads the letters and responds in kind. One
letter
claims that Becky's father Aubrey plans to hire a "nany" to take care of the sad little girl, whose
father avoids her because she looks just like her mother. Callie takes the job of nanny planning to
bring father and child back together. Callie finds Aubrey's love letters to his departed Anne and
reads
them to Becky as they help her feel better. However, the letters show a compassionate side to
Aubrey that Callie wishes he would present to her, as she now loves both the father and his
daughter. Though the theme appears a lot in novels, Heaven Sent provides freshness due to the
cast
who gains reader sympathy. Becky would only fail to hook a Snidely or Darth Vader with her
cries
for hugs and kisses. The story line brings to life the gay nineties in California, but centers on the
four
key players, Becky, Aubrey, Callie, and Anne so that readers gain a wonderful historical
relationship
drama that will leave everyone's eyes moist.
My Warrior
Glynnis Campbell
Jove
Oct 2001, $6.50, 320 pp. ISBN: 0515131539
In 1333, King Edward assigns a difficult task to one of his most trusted warriors. Holden de Ware
must forge an alliance with the Scottish border clan Gavin. Holden and Angus Gavin work out an
agreement, but a jealous lieutenant Sir Roger Fitzroi thinks otherwise and murders a stunned
Angus.
This devilish act leaves his daughter Cambria as chieftain. Cambria hates Holden for his betrayal
of
the pact with her father and wants him dead in an eye for an eye belief that he killed her beloved
sire.
Cambria, a remarkable swordswoman, vows vengeance, but Holden tries his best to stop her from
arousing more ire and spilling unnecessary blood. Though she detests him, Cambria and Holden
fall
in love, but treachery still lingers as Roger plans to eliminate what he perceives as his obstacle for
Edward's blessing, de Ware. My Warrior, the latest de Ware tale (see My Champion), is an
exciting
medieval romance starring two enticing lead charcaters. Though the story line adheres strictly to
the
typical sub-genre basic theme, fans will enjoy this novel because Holden and Cambria are a
delightful
duo struggling with betrayal, mistrust, and love. Glynnis Campbell entertains her audience with
this
exciting fourteenth century novel.
A Knight's Vow
Lynn Kurland, Patricia Potter, Deborah Simmons, and Glynnis Campbell
Jove
Sep 2001, $6.99, 352 pp. ISBN: 0515131512
"The Traveller" by Lynn Kurland. In 1299 near the Scottish border Sir William vows to rescue the
damsel in the greatest distress though he worries how he will accomplish that noble deed. In 2001
Manhattan Julianna worries about losing ten pounds that is before she travels back in time so that
he
can honor his oath while they fall in love with one another. "The Minstrel" by Patricia Potter. In
1485, wealthy Duncan wants someone to love him not his money especially after his deathbed
vow
to his mother. He pretends to be a traveling minstrel. He soon falls in love with Lady Lynet.
However, her father would never accept a troubadour as a spouse, but if she loves him too, how
about a noble. ."The Bachelor Knight" by Deborah Simmons. Sir Berenger prefers to remain
single,
but Guenivere reminds him of his vow forcing the honorable knight to marry her. Soon he finds a
desperate need to gain the love of his wife. "The Siege" by Glynnis Campbell. The King ordered
Ryance and Hilaire to wed though she opposes the idea. Ryance soon wonders how to woo a
reluctant maiden when he has placed her castle under siege and is caught underground with his
nay
saying betrothed. All four tales center on a chivalrous knight who scorns love, but will die for
their
beloved. Each tale is fun and exciting, as the Middle Ages in England and Scotland seem vividly
alive in this engaging anthology.
Once Upon A Rose
Nora Roberts, Jill Gregory, Ruth Ryan Langan, & Marianne Willman
Jove
Oct 2001, $7.99, 400 pp. ISBN: 0515131660
"Winter Rose" by Nora Roberts. Prince Kylar of Mrydon arrives nearly dead when Lady Deirdre
finds him and takes him into her keep. She heals his body and he heals her soul and heart freeing
her
ever-wintry land from its hidden enchantment. "The Rose and the Sword" by Jill Gregory. Forced
to
leave her loving home, Princess Brittany must find her betrothed to save her life and regain her
lost
kingdom. Brittany seeks Prince Lucius even as Darius the Wizard wants her dead. However,
Lucius
seems incapable of heroism until love enters the equation. "The Roses of Glenross" by Ruth Ryan
Langan. The barbarians are winning the battle in spite of valor from their opponents. Jamie
Morgan
rescues an intrepid Alexa MacCallum from their mutual enemy and takes her to an abbey. She
tends
a haunted rose garden until he returns to offer love as a healer for both of them. "The Fairest
Rose"
by Marianne Willman. Evil sorceress Lady Bryn has captured the "heart" of King Gilmore through
a
spell. Tor arrives and begins to rescue the people and the King from the evil Bryn and her
associates,
but it is Gilmore's daughter Mouse who casts a spell of love between them. All four tales are
exciting romantic fantasies that are so well written readers will feel they received a dozen long
stem
roses.
An Echo In Time
Sherry Lewis
Jove
Sep 2001, $5.99, 293 pp. ISBN: 0515131563
In 1889 Black Mesa, Colorado, Sam Evans knows it is time to leave the ranch to his brother and
move on because the woman he loves married someone else. Though it hurts, he knows that Kurt
and Olivia belong together even if the former swears he comes from another century. Still, before
fleeing the area, Sam feels obligated to help Kurt in this showdown with the Durant crowd.
However, something strange occurs and the next thing Sam knows is he is dodging strange
wagons
with lights on a paved road and a pip-squeak deputy asking the ridiculous question of why a
loaded
gun. He soon learns the Heartbreak Hill, Montana sheriff's department has arrested him. Single
parent Taylor O'Brien has a reelection campaign to run if she wants to remain the sheriff. She
does
not need some weird stranger claiming he is from 1899 to mess up her life even if she finds him
stirring her blood. He finds her just as attractive. However, both know love hurts and fear his
return
to his time, making a permanent relationship seems not destined to happen. One of the best at the
time travel romance, Sherry Lewis brings back a secondary character from her popular Whispers
Through Time novel to star in this tale. Sam is a warm wonderful hero with a strong sense of
honor
while Taylor shares his qualities as she places duty ahead of reelection (perhaps many of our
Congress could learn that lesson). The story line is fun though Sam adjusts too easily to the more
advance technological culture. Still the audience will feel elated that he gains the woman this
time.
Night Shadow
Laura Renken
Jove
Sep 2001, $5.99, 343 pp. ISBN: 0515131555
In 1691 Captain Marcus Ryan Drake follows in the footsteps of his father and brother by looting
Spanish ships sailing the Caribbean. Surprisingly, though the sea is in his blood, Marcus hates the
water and dreams of becoming a planter. However, before he can fulfill his desires, Marcus must
discharge an obligation by destroying El Condor, the man who killed his brother. Though
captured
by the Spaniards, a storm enables Marcus to take control of their vessel. On board is Maria
Liandra
Ramirez and after initial squabbles, the pair begins to fall in love. Unbeknownst to her, his mortal
enemy is her brother and unbeknownst to him his cherished Maria is the sister of El Condor.
Night
Shadow is an exciting pirate romance that centers on the dilemma confronting the hero between
family loyalty and honor vs. love. Though the use of the storm to wipe out the Spanish leadership
on
board seems stretched (Spanish Armada or not), the story line is crisp, fast-paced, and loaded
with
action and battle between the genders. The lead characters make the tale and add to the growing
reputation of Laura Renken amidst the pirate romance sub-genre crew (see My Lord Pirate).
Once A Mistress
Rebecca Hagan Lee
Jove
Sep 2001, $6.50, 336 pp. ISBN: 0515131687
In 1818 England, Marquis George Ramsey apparently dies while sailing on the Irish Sea with his
mistress. George stuns his son Andrew with the codicil added to his last will and testament.
George
insists that his legitimate heir take care of his mistresses who comforted Andrew ever since his
wife
died. Andrew plans to evict one of George's women from the family home. However, when he
arrives he finds the last person he expects to see, Kathryn Markinson, who jilted him years ago.
To
his amazement he still wants her even after she introduces him to his young half-brother. Andrew
orders Kathryn to become his mistress, but quickly decides he needs more from the woman he still
loves. However, Kathryn has deep secrets that she knows she must share with the man she
cherishes, but once he learns the truth he will discard her as unwanted baggage. Once A Mistress
is
an engaging Regency romance filled with passion and love so much so that sub-genre fans will
enjoy
feasting on the tale. Though a bit thin, the story line engages the reader because the audience
empathizes with the lead couple and the late George. Fans who relish an emotional
character-driven
plot will find Rebecca Hagan Lee's latest story enticingly fulfilling.
Buttercup Baby
Karen Fox
Jove
Oct 2001, $5.99, 272 pp. ISBN: 0515131695
Queen of the Fae Titania bans from court subordinate Queen of the Pillywiggins Ariel for daring
to
defend Robin Goodfellow to her Highness. Though upset after centuries of loyalty to Titania,
Ariel
realizes she crossed the line because the biased Titania hates all half-breed Fae. Still King Oberon
eases some of Ariel's anger and hurt by asking her to check up on his grandson while she is in the
mortal plane. In the realm of the Fae, babies just do not exist so Ariel is surprised by her reaction
to
seeing the infant. She wants her own baby and she chooses a friend of the Goodfellow family
Rand
Thayer as the sire. Not knowing the ways of humans, Ariel bluntly asks Rand to father a child
with
her. He rejects the idea at first, but soon cannot resist their attraction. However, a pregnant Ariel
causes unique problems when her hormones go wild. Buttercup Baby is a humorous fantasy
romance starring two warm characters. The essence of this tale and its predecessor (see Prince
Charming) is that the audience believe in the realm of Fae so that everything that occurs to and
done
by Ariel works in support of that concept. The fun story line provides the audience with
humorous
escapist material but also contains a serious subtle sub-theme of prejudice against an entire
subspecies that stands as a reminder to the reader that Arab- Americans must be allowed and
encouraged to join in our collective grieving.
Darkling I Listen
Katherine Sutcliffe
Jove
Sep 2001, $7.50, 464 pp. ISBN: 0515131520
He played Jesus in the all time money making film The Resurrection, but was inside Corcoran
State
Prison charged with manslaughter when the movie was in the theaters. He was pals with the rich
and
famous and considered a great actor. Now Brandon Carlyle has returned to his family home in
Ticky
Creek, Texas to regain his lost life and to escape his stalker Anticipating. Tabloid reporter Alyson
James follows the former icon to Texas looking for a fresh angle on the fall of a legend. Alyson
persuades a dubious Brandon that she will help him write his autobiography telling his side of the
story. However, Anticipating has also followed Brandon home, making him wonder whom he can
trust including a female journalist who he is falling in love with but questions whether she might
be
his stalker. Darkling I Listen reads more like a dark cat and mouse thriller than a romantic
suspense
novel. The story line is well written but grim as Anticipating works magic on the audience who
wonders who the clever stalker is. The romantic subplot takes a back seat because fans will
question
along with Brandon whether Alyson is Anticipating. Katherine Sutcliffe keeps the taut thriller
from
revealing the identity until the climax, making for quite an exciting chiller.
The Gingerbread Man
Maggie Shayne
Jove
Oct 2001, $6.99, 336 pp. ISBN: 0515131679
Syracuse, New York Detective Vince Donovan always keeps his professional distance during an
investigation, but this one haunts him due to the desperate pleas of Sara Prague. No happy ending
as
Vince and his partner discover the murdered corpses of little Bobby and Kara. A few days later,
Chief Rogers removes his two detectives from the case as the FBI claims jurisdiction since similar
homicides in the nearby states have also occurred. The Chief informs Vince to take leave or see
the
shrink because he seems haunted and is acting obsessed. Unable to drop it, Vince follows his only
clue, a library book that takes him to Dilmun, New York. He meets Holly Newman, who years
ago
managed to escape a similar abduction, but whose sister is assumed dead. The culprit resides in
prison, but Vince thinks otherwise. He believes the answer is locked inside the mind of Holly if he
can only reach her, but he never expected to love her too. The Gingerbread Man is an exciting
non-stop thriller that fans of police investigations, serial killers, and romantic suspense will read in
one sitting. The tone is set early as the audience will feel as haunted by the Prague siblings and
their
pleading mother as much as Vince. Other characters grab the audience in similar fashion as the
cast
adds depth and chills to this stalwart story line. Maggie Shayne deserves wider recognition for her
strong portrayal of the trauma left with survivors struggling to overcome tragedy.
The Highwayman
Anne Kelleher
Jove
Oct 2001,$5.99,400pp. ISBN:0515131148
Irish aristocrat Lord Edmund Neville Fitzgerald wears a mask to cover a scar that mars his visage.
However, at night he wears a mask, stealing money from his peers and giving it back to the poor
like
a Robin Hood hero. The local aristocracy loathes Gentleman Niall. In a card game with Lord
Wentworth, Neville wins the Kilmara estate, but must marry his opponent's daughter Elizabeth, to
whom the land is entailed, to gain the land. Lady Elizabeth travels from her home in Ireland to
meet
her new betrothed Neville in Ireland. Nasty highwaymen attack her coach, but Gentleman Niall
rescues her from the vile thugs. Elizabeth finds herself attracted to her savior, but knows she must
marry her intended Lord Neville. When she meets her fianc‚, Elizabeth realizes he is Gentleman
Niall, who does not trust his new spouse as his enemies have hired a bounty hunter who believes
Elizabeth can identify Gentleman Niall. To his chagrin, Neville wants his wife who loves him with
all
her heart. The lead characters and the support cast feel genuine and the fast-paced story line is
loaded with action. However, the attraction between Neville and Elizabeth takes a long time to
start
and even longer to connect, leaving the audience to wonder if the novel is historical fiction with a
touch of romance instead of historical romantic suspense. Still, the tale is well written for those
historical fans that enjoy a strong plot with the romance serving as a secondary vehicle.
Fatal Legacy
Elizabeth Corley
Thomas Dunne
Oct 2001, $24.9, 320 pp. ISBN: 0312283814
In West Sussex, Managing Director Alan Wainright apparently committed suicide. His will only
changed a few months ago leaves the lion's share of the estate to his nephew Alexander. Alan's
influential son Graham is outraged, though he inherits a sizable amount, but not close to what he
expected. Following a police investigation and an inquest that ruled suicide, Graham asks ACC
Harper-Brown to reopen the case because he thinks someone murdered his father. Because he
wants
DCI Andrew Fenwick to fail, Harper- Brown assigns the case to him with instructions not to
disturb
the family or rekindle the media frenzy. With his hands tied up, Andrew begins an investigation
that
he sure will substantiate the current official position. To his surprise, Andrew and his crew begin
to
find discrepancies and perhaps illegalities that reach from Wainright Enterprises to the local
community leadership. Fatal Legacy is an engaging English police procedural that entertains
sub-genre fans due to a story line that works on two levels: that of the investigation and a glimpse
or
two at Andrew's personal life. Though the murderer is in clear site the climax uses sociopath
behavior (someone kills Alan at the beginning of the tale), seems unnecessary, as avarice would
have
sufficed. On the contrary the most likely associate to the killer gets off free because of a lack of
solid
evidence and the need for closure due to the immense visibility of the case. Elizabeth Corley
provides a strong tale for those readers who interested in a tight investigative novel.
Halfway To Heaven
Susan Wiggs
Mira Books
Oct 2001, $6.99, 08 pp. ISBN: 1551668378
In the late nineteenth century, everyone in the highest circles of DC social life knows that Abigail
Cabot, though a senator's daughter, is a weirdo. Unlike debutantes her age including her sister,
Abigail prefers astronomy to balls. However, her feelings change when she meets Lieutenant
Boyd
Butler III. She wants him with all her heart, but he has no interest in her. DC's most eligible
bachelor, Senator Jamie Calhoun, needing her father's help, promises to assist Abigail in getting
her
man. Something weird happens to Abigail and Jamie. They fall in love, but he refuses to believe in
such a wasted emotion and she is confused over her former infatuation for the lieutenant and her
sudden desire to only be with Jamie. Readers will think they journeyed to nineteenth century
upper
class Washington society with the depth inside Susan Wiggs' strong historical romance. The story
line is fascinating mostly because the cast brings alive an engaging period of America's past. The
lead
couple is a charming duet who struggle with his and her respective growing awareness of love for
one another. Halfway To Heaven takes the audience all the way to readers heaven with another
winning novel from Ms. Wiggs.
A New Attitude
Charlotte Hughes
Mira Books
Oct 2001, $5.99, 384 pp. ISBN: 1551668637
In Chickpea, South Carolina, Reverend Grady Abnernathy deserts his Church and leaves his wife
Marilee to live in sin with LaFonda Bonaire at the Tall Pines Trailer Park. Due to Marilee's
nagging,
their teenage son moves in with his dad too. Now Marilee simply plans to commit suicide as she
feels her life is over. However, Marilee's efforts to kill herself fail as she cannot even do that right.
Marilee self feelings have gotten much worse and depression seems imminent when she meets
builder Sam Brewer, who has just returned home to care for his ailing mother. With the
encouragement of her friends and with Sam making her feel good, Marilee begins to start life
anew
with A New Attitude and a confidence that she previously lacked. As Sam and Marilee fall in
love,
both mistrust permanent relationships as each one has suffered from pa previous marital failure.
Though some readers will find A New Attitude as a dark romantic romp similar to the movie The
End, many fans will appreciate the amusing tale with a serious undertone. The story line contains
humorous situations and characters the audience will like, especially the lead couple though why
Marilee chose suicide when she knows Grady has the problems will leave readers perplexed. Still,
Charlotte Hughes writes an engaging Southern small town romantic romp.
The Wedding Party
Robin Carr
Mira Books
Oct 2001, $5.99, 384 pp. ISBN: 1551668394
After a disastrous marriage when she was too young, family attorney Charlene Dugan has no
plans
to marry ever again. Now forty-five and seeing someone for five years, Charlene appreciates the
status quo of having her own home and a significant other in that own home. With her nerves on
edge from a couple going through a horrific divorce, her daughter stuns Charlene when she tells
her
that does not want to end up like her mom, all alone. On top of that flogging, her mom seems to
be
showing signs of mental instability and her former spouse Jake, who seems to be around a lot,
accuses her of not being able to commit. To prove they are wrong she proposes to Dennis and he
gladly accepts. However, preparing for the wedding turns disastrous. Denis seems more interested
with the wedding planner than Charlene. Stephanie seems into a deeper funk because her mom is
marrying before she is. Then there is Jake, who makes it clear that he is he one who should be her
groom not Dennis. Can a marriage take much more of a spiral downward than this mess that
Charlene wants to escape from before she goes insane. The Wedding Party is an amusing
romantic
romp that slowly develops the cast so that the audience understands everyone's reactions and
actions. Once the characters' motivations are established, the plot turns into a wild humorous ride
down the aisle. Fans of contemporary craziness will want to attend Charlene's wedding reception
as
the story line has several additional subplots augmenting a delightfully funny novel.
Night Of The Blackbird
Heather Graham
Mira Books
Oct 2001, $6.99, 384 pp. ISBN: 1551668122
Moira Kelley enjoys her New York City lifestyle. She and her partner Josh co-produce a travel
show
for cable. Moira is also dating Michael McLean, whom she believes is the ideal man for her. After
pressure from her mom to come home for St. Patrick's Day, Moira brings her show to her father's
Boston pub for the Irish holiday. However, the atmosphere in the pub contains an aura of
hideousness as whispers that her dad's place hosts terrorists abound. Inquisitive, Moira begins to
make inquiries, but someone tries to frighten her away from learning the truth about a thirst for
revenge from a 1977 Ireland incident. Soon a long time customer mysteriously dies. Though
scared,
she wonders if the culprit is a family member, Michael, or the man she always loved and sadly still
does, Danny O'Hara. Night Of The Blackbird is an exciting romantic suspense even if it is too
easy
for Moira to switch her show's location to placate her mom. The pub's highly charged atmosphere
gains control of the reader's mind so that the audience will feel they are having a dark beer along
with the regulars. In spite of feeling that one is at the pub, fans will not know the identity of the
traitor until the end because a myriad of viable suspects exist. Adding depth is Moira's struggles
with
being a second generation Irish- American as pressure from her heritage often battles with her
Americanization. Though anything smacking of terrorism is difficult to swallow, Heather Graham
provides a robust tale that will please most sub- genre fans.
Lady Gypsy
Pam Crooks
Leisure/Dorchester
Sep 2001, $4.99, 315 pp. ISBN: 0843949112
In 1876 in Niobrara City, Nebraska, railroad owner Reese Carrison leads the town in celebrating
the
completion of his Nebraska Dakota Railroad line. His best friend Bram Kaldwell also appears
accompanied by his widowed daughter, Rebecca Ann and his granddaughter Margaret. Reese
plans
to ask Rebecca to marry him because he wants a wife and family. He is not opposed to using
Margaret as a tool to that end by insisting the rambunctious child needs the strong hand of a
father.
However, Reese admits to himself that he does not love the steady Margaret. A group of Gypsies
arrive during the gala event, but one of the band, Liza, is charged with attempting to abduct
Margaret. Liza flees on Reese's horse and he quickly follows, but soon a monster storm with a
tornado threatens the lives of both. Liza hates the Gaje as her people call the whites after what her
biological father did to her mother, but to her chagrin finds she is attracted to Reese. He
reciprocates
those unwanted feelings even knowing that Rebecca is better suited as his wife. Readers who
enjoy
an exciting western romance that brings the era to life through two engaging lead protagonists
and a
powerful support cast will want to read Lady Gypsy. The audience will feel the prejudice that the
Gypsies felt and how easy the sons and daughters on both sides learn to hate, but will wonder
how
Liza could trust any Gaje. Still love conquers all in Pam Crook's winning novel.
Pain Management
Andrew Vachss
Knopf
Oct 2001, $24.00, 309 pp. ISBN: 0375413227
Still healing from the Hunt's Point New York ambush, Burke decides to remain in hiding in
Portland,
Oregon a bit longer. His new web is still tentative and being formed unlike that waiting for his
return
to the East Coast. Burke's West Coast woman Gem, a Khmer Rouge survivor with her own
"business" sends work to the still injured sociopath vigilante. The job is to find a missing runaway
teen, whose parents already went the full law enforcement route including a high priced private
detective agency filled with former cops. They all failed. Gem heard the street whispers about the
unsuccessful search and offered the parents an unlicensed detective who accepts cash only to find
the teen. Desperate the parents jump at the opportunity to search anew and hire Burke who
begins
his trek to find Rose. An underground series of clues seems serpentine and circular leaving Burke
to
wonder if he will adjust to the confusing environs of the Pacific even as he slowly unravels the
truth
about why Rosebud ran away from an allegedly loving home. The latest Burke tale, Pain
Management, is a powerful entry in this long running series starring a different kind of hero. The
story line engages those readers who do not mind violence. Andrew Vachss modifies his approach
by adding a different type of depth with this novel as readers hear the voices of key cast members
not filtered through Burke's interpretation. The answer to why is fabulous and keeps the audience
sitting until Burke metes out justice his style.
Lions Of Judah
Elaine Hopper
Novel Books
Oct 2001, 210 pp. ISBN: 1931696039 (book); 1931696969 (print)
Melissa Vanderbilt-Smythe is engaged to Senator Nathan Alexander, but wants to end their
relationship when she realizes he is an abusive monster. Nathan is so charming and handsome and
seemingly so nice and friendly, no one including her own father believes Melissa's accusations that
the great Alexander is a dangerous scurrilous egomaniac. Melissa meets, falls in love and elopes
with
Jessie, but Nathan's goons kill her new husband. Two years later bounty hunter Cody Richards
finds
the missing heiress who remained in hiding ever since Jessie died. Cody intends to return Melissa
to
her family to collect the sizable award. However, a snakebite makes Cody ill and Melissa nurses
him
back to health. When Cody recovers, Nathan forces a beleaguered Melissa to return home. Cody
goes to the aid of the woman he loves. Now he, she, and her family are entangled in a life or death
struggle with a religious cult, The Lions Of Judah, led by the charismatic Senator Alexander.
Elaine
Hopper has written a romantic thriller that sadly is so timely after recent events in New York,
Pennsylvania, and DC. Lions Of Judah is filled with action starring two heroes brave enough to
risk
their lives for their loved ones and their nation. No longer for everyone after the horrific terrorist
attacks, this remains a taut thriller.
Miracles For Nick
Holly J Fuhrmann
ImaJinn Books
Sep 2001, $10.00, 168 pp. ISBN: 1893896501
When Glory Chambers found her husband in bed with another woman, she divorced him. She left
their penthouse for an apartment and quit her job as a vice president at a powerful corporation.
Finally, her deceased aunt leaves a restaurant to Glory who decides to move there to manage the
place. Before she has a chance to advertise for help. Myrtle, Fern, and Blossom mysteriously
appear
to fill the openings. Somehow a befuddled Glory hires the trio. However, when they insist they
are
matchmaking fairies, she draws the line of what she will accept. Their target for Glory is Nick, a
commitment shy individual. Between his phobia and her refusal to play with fire again, the
supernatural threesome seems doomed to failure with the impossible task of not so subtly nudging
this duo into a relationship. Miracles For Nick is the third and final book in the fairy series and
like
its predecessors this is a good novel. Holly J Fuhrmann creates a story line in which readers
believe
in otherworldly creatures and a happily ever after that leave the audience with a sense of elation.
This lighthearted romantic fantasy is quite a pool side treat.
Indigo Bay
Barbara Baldwin
ImaJinn Books
Sep 2001, $13.00, 222 pp. ISBN: 1893896439
When Mica Chadwick's beloved Aunt Theo died, she bequeathed the Cameron Island family
estate
Sea Crest to her niece. Mica has a thriving law practice and has no plans to manage a bed and
breakfast, but could use some time away from her highly stressed legal job. She travels to Sea
Crest
to relax, but finds weird happenings in her new home. Mica opens a door that allegedly goes
nowhere only to find a stairwell. She walks down the steps only to end up in the home of Thomas
Rutledge, circa 1850. Mica concludes that the door and steps must be a portal and bridge between
the past and her present. The more Mica remains in the past with Logan, the more she realizes she
loves him. However, an unknown antagonist waits for the right moment to destroy everything this
couple cherishes. Indigo Bay is a well-written time travel romance due to the actions and
reactions
of the heroine when she becomes temporally displaced. Mica never pretends to be an antebellum
southern belle even for love. Instead she coaxes Logan into accepting her as an independent,
intelligent individual. This helps turn this novel into a delightful time travel for sub-genre
fans.
Keeper Of The Key
Barbara Christopher
ImaJinn Books
Sept 2001, $13.50, 297 pp. ISBN 1893896651
It is sad there is a fortune stashed somewhere in Beclair house, but Becci and her Aunt Lily are
unable to find it. If they don't find it soon they just might have to sell their ancestral home to a
developer. Becci's fianc‚ Michael thinks the investment company Ascomp might give Becci a
grant
so she can open a nursery. All is going smoothly until the day a man called Caleb Harrison
mysteriously shows up. He claims to be from the year 1836 and that he must return there because
his
Godson Lucas needs him. Becci doesn't believe him but she finds him very convincing and her
ancestor's journals do mention a Caleb Harrison. There is a medallion in the house that will let him
return to his own time but first he must convince Becci that what he says is truth. Gradually Becci
realizes she doesn't love Michael (who has his own hidden agenda) but instead she believes Caleb
is
her true love. When the time comes for Caleb to journey back to his own time, Becci's heart will
truly break. Barbara Christopher has written a fine time travel romance due in large part to the
hero
who slowly (very slowly) acclimatizes to the twenty-first century. The romance between the lead
couple is sweet even when it seems hopeless while the villain tuns out to be i quite a shocker.
Fans
of paranormal time travel romances will not want to miss Keeper Of The Key.
Deep Water
SV Date
Putnam
Oct 2001, $23.95, 240 pp. ISBN: 0399148159
Serenity, Florida seems to live up to its name as it provides a wonderful planned community in the
midst of the colossal Whipple Kingdom. Nearby is the company owned theme park and zoo,
making
Serenity a perfect place for retirement or raising a family. However, beneath the surface of
Shangri-La resides a radically different environment. Everything short of breathing is centrally
managed and that includes times for specified community activities. Failure to obey the rules
could
result in eviction with no return of deposit. Big Brother controls communications from phones to
postal service to email. Nothing flows in or out without a look by the central board fully
administered by the avaricious Lew Peters, who could make a turnip bleed for a buck. As reporter
Ernie Warner begins to uncover the truth about Serenity's dead animals and dead people, an
underground movement and an environmentalist struggle to reveal to the world that Peters and ilk
have established a third world dictatorship in central Florida. However, Peters will stop at nothing
to
destroy the opposition including nosy reporters, save the species environmentalists, and graffiti
artists who threaten his realm. Deep Water is a dark satirical look at the modern American
corporation with its protective government ties. The story line exaggerates the prime traits of the
key cast including the corporation so that the audience amusingly understands the role and its
impact
on the plot. Everything and anything is skewered by the rapier wit of the author. The only
conclusion an intelligent person can reach is if DNA testing was performed on SV Date and the
remains of Jonathan Swift, reincarnation would prove real.
Everybody Pays
Maurice Passley & Rick Kogan
Putnam
Oct 2001, $25.95, 336 pp. ISBN: 0399148108
In the 1970s, the Mafia owned Chicago more than the law-abiding citizens. The mob leaders used
payoffs, bribes, assassinations, and jury tampering to conduct their business. They infiltrated the
police and courts to insure that obviously guilty members were never convicted. One evening Bob
Lowe, a loving decent family man, is walking his dog when he sees someone kill his neighbor Billy
Logan. The police show mug shots to Bob and he identifies the cold-blooded killer as Harry
Aleman, a mob enforcer. Bob is placed in the witness protection program, but while he testifies as
to
what he witnessed, the defense paints him as a lowlife fool. Harry walks while Bob descends into
a
world of drugs and crime. He spends time in jail for robbery, but when he regains his freedom he
manages to put his life back together. He reunites with his wife and children, but as things are
looking up, he is asked to testify again at Harry's retrial. However, the once Good Samaritan has
his
own bogeyman to face and expects to be shredded again in court. Everybody Pays is a true
account
of what happened to a decent individual doing his duty until the justice system nearly destroys
him.
As footnoted in the book, the courtroom dialogue comes from transcripts that add to the overall
feel
of a system out of control. This true story could have been quite a plot for a novel as Maurice
Passley & Rick Kogen give Ann Rule a run for the genre's top true crime author.
Orchid Blues
Stuart Woods
Putnam
Nov 2001, $24.95, 304 pp. ISBN: 0399147772
Holly Barker is going to the chapel to get married. Her best friend Daisy, her Doberman Pincher,
will serve as the maid of honor. However, Holly's elation abruptly turns to horror when her fianc‚
is
murdered during a bank robbery that turned violent. Holly leads the official investigation that
takes
her to a town not found on the most detailed of maps. The inhabitants are white supremacists who
recruit Holly's dad Ham into joining their organization. Ham pretends to join the militia and
quickly
assumes a key role amidst the group. Holly and her law enforcement peers obtain Ham's
cooperation
and he places listening devices in the organization's encampment. This enables them to learn that
Ham is selected to assassinate a VIP, but no one knows whom the intended victim is. Unless they
can learn the identity of the target, someone will die. Stuart Woods has his more famous character
Stone Barrington makes cameo appearances in Orchid Blues, which allows fans to feel a greater
connection to the Barker series. Holly is a humorous independent soul who copes with grief by
diving headfirst into a mystery filled with more twists and turns than that found in a maze. This is
a
good read on a cold winter's night.
Isle Of Dogs
Patricia Cornwell
Putnam
Oct 2001, $26.95, 432 pp. ISBN 039914739X
Superintendent Judy Hammer and State trooper and Internet columnist Andy Brazil are still
assigned
to Richmond, where there are rooting out corruption in the police department. The Virginia
Governor assigned them to clean up the state trooper office, but Judy is finding this difficult since
she has trouble communicating with the Head State official. Neither Judy nor Andy knows that
somebody close to the governor is blocking all attempts for the trio to talk to one another. The
troublemaker in the governor's office is in collusion with a gang of road pirates, the leader of who
has a score to settle with both Andy and his boss. On a lighter note, the people of Tangier Island,
fed
up with governor's antics, kidnap a dentist and declare their independence from the state of
Virginia.
In a dazzling climax, all problems are resolved in a most original manner. Although Isle Of Dogs
is
nothing like the Kay Scarpetta medical thrillers, it is a fine work that deserves equal praise, as the
author's more renowned tales receive. Ms. Cornwell has written a satirical police procedural that
allows the audience an insider's look at the workings of the police department. Andy is wonderful
as
an Internet writer ferreting out corruption in high places and some really low ones too. There are
actually moments that readers will laugh out loud at a dark criminal scene. Read this superb book
to
understand how this is possible.
A Woman's Liberation
Connie Willis & Sheila Williams (Editors)
Warner
Oct 2001, $12.95, 320 pp. ISBN: 0446677426
This outstanding anthology, ably edited by Connie Willis and Sheila Williams, consists of ten
science
fiction stories previously published in Asimov or Analog written by women starring a female
protagonist. The tales display how female authors have more than just contributed to the genre,
but
pioneered it while liberating writers to go beyond the limits of the past. Each story is well written
as
expected from a group of authors like this collection contains. Regardless of your gender, if you
enjoy science fiction short stories you will gain much pleasure from much of A Woman's
Liberation.
A Bend In The Road
Nicholas Sparks
Warner
Sep 2001, $23.95, 352 pp. ISBN: 0446527785
Two years ago in New Bern, North Carolina Deputy Sheriff Miles Ryan learns how quickly a
joyful
life can turn to ashes when a still unknown hit and run driver kills his beloved wife, Missy. Miles
feels he died that day too and survives through their young son Jonah. Neither Ryan male has
come
to grips with their loss as both still mourn Missy's death. All Sarah Andrews wanted from life was
the same kind of love her parents have for one another and always showered on her. She thought
Michael was her life mate, but when they learned her eggs could not produce a child, he divorced
her. She left Baltimore to start anew in New Bern. Sarah, Jonah's elementary school teacher, is
sympathetic towards the young child's grief; still she is concerned with his behavior and
schoolwork.
At a parents-teacher conference, Miles and Sarah meet and feel a shocking attraction. As they
begin
to fall in love, both wonder if a relationship is the right thing for them and for Jonah. Then there is
the "Italicized" individual who deliberately killed Missy and will murder again to remain
anonymous.
Very few writers of romantic suspense can send off more sparks and sugar in the same mix than
Nicholas Sparks. The story line is sweet as two walking wounded heal through the magic of love,
which in a Mary Poppins kind of way softens everyone else except for the murderer. The lead
couple
is a warm, engaging duo struggling with ghosts, love, and a killer, which make for a fine cotton
candy of a tale.
Abducted Heiress
Amanda Scott
Warner
Nov 2001, $5.99, 432 pp. ISBN: 0446610267
In 1527, the Earl of Angus arrives to take his five year old niece Molly Gordon, the Maid of
Dunsithe and her infant sister Bessie away from their home. The little girls have no protector as
their
father just died and their mother is helpless to stop her brother, who plans to control the wealth of
Molly, an heiress. Before being separated from her two children, Molly's mother uses a heated
ring
to burn a mark onto her daughter's chest so she can recognize her if they ever meet as adults.
Twelve years later, Sir Finlay "Wild Fin" Mackenzie comes to the Isle of Skye to take his king
chosen betrothed/ward Molly away with him. Fin has two reasons to marry Molly. His people can
use her legendary riches though no one knows where they might be and he wants to enact revenge
on her previous guardian Donald of Sleat who killed his father. As the wee people interfere, Fin
and
Molly are attracted to one another, but dangerous enemies want Molly and Fin dead rather than
united in love. Abducted Heiress, the first part of a two part miniseries, The Secret Clan, is an
engaging paranormal historical romantic suspense. The story line is filled with the danger of
intrigue
blended with the magic of the wee people. The lead characters are a delightfully dueling duet and
the
audience will enjoy their capers, but the novel works on several levels because fans will believe in
Amanda Scott's "world" and want Bessie's story told soonest, not next year.
The Story Of Light
Ben Bova
SourceBooks
Oct 2001, $24.95, 432 pp. ISBN: 1570717850
The Story Of Light is not a science fiction novel by one of the genre's grandmasters. Instead Ben
Bova provides an engaging explanation on the importance of light in our lives. He uses several
approaches including scientific, medical, religious, and social to illuminate a complex topic so that
the average individual can understand it. Even with the vernacular included, the book is written so
that readers will grasp most, if not all, the topics yet is written in a manner as if Mr. Bova was
telling
a story. The full phenomena and impact of light in everyday existence is fine reading though more
pictures and illustrations would have increased the illumines of this well designed book, but The
Story Of Light remains fun and educating so that readers will understand the significance of Let
there be Light.
Royal Dad
Leanne Banks
Silhouette
Nov 2001, $3.99, 186 pp.
Prince Michel Charles Philippe is the heir to the throne of Marceneau. Since his son Max suffers
from dyslexia, Michel hires American Maggie Gillian, a tutor with tremendous credentials to
educate
the lad. Maggie believes she can help her fellow dyslexia sufferer, but is unable to play the proper
protocol game, let alone follow orders. Michel finds Maggie refreshing because she is the first
woman in his life that does not automatically acquiesce to everything he says. Even more
surprising
he believes she cares about Michel the man and not Michel the royal. They have an affair, but she
refuses to accept any gifts from the prince and still intends to leave for the Sates once her
assignment ends. Michel desperately wants the commoner to stay, but does not know what he
really
can offer his beloved to convince her to do so. Leanne Banks has written a charming, humorous,
and
poignant contemporary romance that readers will thoroughly enjoy. The audience easily
empathizes
with the graceful lead couple, as we understand their plight. There are more Royal House of
Dumont novels coming next year from a majestic talent that readers can bank on for an
entertaining
story.
The Dragon Queen
Alice Borchardt
Del Rey
Oct 2001, $25.00, 480 pp. ISBN: 0345443993
Descended from the sorcerer queen Bodiccia and born to a powerful pagan practicing mage, She
becomes a pawn to fate. Raised by a druid, shapeshifter, and his family, everyone knew she was
destined to become queen. Merlin and Igraine (Arthur's mother) sought to control her, but her
family hid her so she would have time to grow and mature. At their first meeting, Guinivere
knows
Arthur is her true love, but she is not ready to be his queen. She escapes Marlin's machinations
and
performs a service for the Goddess Athena. Arthur struggles with the pressures placed on him by
his
mother and Merlin her lover, but knows he must prove worthy in order for Guinivere to agree to
become his queen. The Dragon Queen is rich in historical text, but loaded with fantasy species and
actions. The deep story line includes some whimsy to soften the epic tale that clearly is on a par
with
Tarr and Radford. The only drawback is that fans will have to wait for the adventures of
Guinivere
and Arthur separately and together to continue in the next installment of this three book
saga.
A Sonnet For Shasta
David Hunter
Silver Dagger
Oct 2001, $23.95, 186 pp. ISBN: 1570721807
He has loved her for over three decades ever since he was twelve. Yet they never dated and made
love only once. After that one time visit to nirvana, she told him to forget her. She married an
elderly
wealthy man for the security that thevsenior citizen can provide her. Two marriages later, Deedee
Eagle believes that the only woman for him is Shasta Pearman, so he stops dating even though the
beautiful woman next door adores him. Deedee and Shasta coincidentally meet at the bank where
she tells him that her husband has a job for him. From that chance encounter Deedee's life spirals
down into hell culminating with his arrest for murdering Shasta's husband. Though he clears his
name, Deedee faces the worst thing that ever happened to him and if cannot find a viable
alternative
wonders if life remains worth living. David Hunter entrances his audience from start to finish so
the
reader needs to insure plenty of available time for this one sitting tale. The hero is a decent person
caught in a tangle of loving the impossible. The multi-layered plot works on all levels yet still
provides one surprise after another so that fans will feel thoroughly entertained at the sunset of A
Sonnet For Shasta.
The Good German
Joseph Kanon
Holt
Sept. 2001, $26.00, 496 pp. ISBN: 0805064222
Before World War II forced him to leave, Jake Geismar, was CBS' reporter in Berlin. Now with
the
war over, CBS sends Jake back to Berlin to cover the Potsdam Conference. An obsessed Jake
could
not care less about a stuffy conference with a bunch of aging heads of state ready to carve up
Europe like the failed efforts of Metternich a century before. Instead, Jake needs to know what
happened to his prewar lover, Lena. Jake becomes interested in the corpse of an American soldier
whose murdered body is found near the conference. The intriguing part of this homicide is the
Ally
military leadership efforts to sweep the murder under a rug. Jake's journalist instincts smell a big
story so he begins his own inquires that take him on a tour of the battered from the capital of the
Third Reich and the competition among the winners to grab the spoils of victory, including the
German scientists like Lena's husband. The Good German is an exciting look at Berlin just after
the
Nazi defeat. The story line is fantastic when the characters deal with ethics and morality especially
local efforts to expunge feelings of guilt over atrocities and over losing. The tale slows down
when
Joseph Kanon turns it more into a thriller that interferes with an incredible character study filled
with
pathos as Allies and Germans feel different degrees of inadequacy, guilt, mistrust, and denial.
Sins Of The Flesh
J.C. Wilder
LTD Books
Nov 2000, 132 pp. ISBN 1553160738
Vampire Alexandra Saint-Just, head of the Council of Elders, has defeated his enemies Cass and
Mikhail, two rebels who wanted to lead the preternatural world. His two deadly foes vanish
without
a trace, carrying a valuable book that Alexandra wants back. He doesn't have time to do anything
more than capture the two vampires and regain the book but thoughts of Sunni keep intruding on
his
mind. Sunni is a young vampire who has loved Alexandra ever since he saved her life decades
ago.
She sees beneath the stuffy, reserved and often cold man to the caring person underneath. She is
determined to prove to him that she can help him. Cass returns wanting to co-rule the council
with
him once again. When the time arrives to make the announcement, Sunni puts herself between
Alexandra and a lethal injection. There is an entire invisible underground of modern day
preternatural creatures and CJ Wilder does a brilliant job of making the reader believe such a
world
exists. The romance between the two protagonists is believable and emotionally moving but the
high
point of Sins Of The Flesh is the action sub-plot where good and evil vie for supremacy leading to
a
very tasty morsel of a novel.
Dial M For Meatloaf
Ellen Hart
Fawcett
Nov 2001, $6.99, 336 pp. ISBN:034542154X
Sophie Greenacy owns St. Paul's Mansfield Plazza and writes a restaurant review column for the
Minneapolis Times-Register. The newspaper is currently sponsoring a favorite meatloaf recipe
contest with the grand prize being a weekend at the Plazza. Helping Sophie with this enormous
endeavor is Bernice Washburn, the food editor at the paper. When Sophie learns that her friend's
father is ill, she offers to drive Bernice to the hospital to visit him. When John Washburn regains
consciousness, he immediately admits that he killed handyman Kirby Rinbeck, an individual
allegedly
blackmailing him. Sophie decides to investigate only to stunningly learn that John is a multiple
bigamist, but finds no evidence that her friend's father killed anyone. Working with Bernice's
significant other Angelo Falzone, Sophie searches for the real killer. Dial M For Meatloaf is a
witty
sophisticated who-done-it with a serpentine story line that takes readers on quite a meandering
ride
that works. Ellen Hart serves up quite a dish with one of the best amateur sleuth novels of the
year
because of that strong plot and likable but eccentric characters with fan appeal.
The Fiery Cross
Diana Gabaldron
Delacorte
Oct 2001, $27.95, 976pp. ISBN: 0385315279
In 1770 the Colonial Governor of North Carolina Tryon drafts Jamie Fraser to head up a militia
that
is to help rout the rebellious Regulators. Jamie names his son-in-law Roger MacKenzie, who just
married his daughter Briana, as an officer in his unit. Roger makes it clear that Jemmy is his son
regardless of whether it his seed or that of Bree's rapist Stephen Bonnet. While Claire practices
medicine, Jamie continues to search for information on Bonnet. Bonnet and an associate accost
Jamie's Aunt Jocasta and her new husband in their home in search of gold brought from Scotland
during the last failed Stuart effort to regain the throne. The adventures of Jamie, Roger, Claire
and
Bree continue as they struggle with health problems and finding Bonnet. The latest adventures of
Diana Gabaldron's time traveling trio and Jamie are as exciting and insightful as any of its
predecessors. Readers see inside the character's hearts and know they remain true to form. The
audience also obtains a wondrous look at North Carolina prior to the Revolution. The story line is
loaded with action through the deeds and motives of the four prime players. Fans of the series will
be delighted with this novel and there are threads left dangling for another mega epic from the
great
author.
See Jane Date
Melissa Senate
Red Dress
Nov 2001, $12.95, 288 pp. ISBN: 0373870892
It is not that easy being a single late twenties female living in New York City. Everyone Jane sees
seems paired and her closest friends want to set her up with someone one so she can share in
coupling bliss. Her cousin Dana is marrying in two months and Jane desperately wants a date to
quiet her relatives about her prospects. Her best friend's husband knows a lot of eligible males, so
Jane agrees to go on a series of blind dates. Each one starts with tremendous promise, but each
time
fizzles into failure at least from Jane's perspective. While Jane struggles to find a date for the
upcoming nuptials, she seeks a promotion at work because after six years as a great assistant
editor,
she believes it is past time to get a promotion. To gain her professional goal, Jane must work
closely
on a project with Natasha, a woman she despises since they were children in the same Queens
neighborhood. Jane is striking out on both fronts, but to know for sure how it all turns out, read
See
Jane Date. This is a serio-comic look at life for a single woman in New York. Readers will like the
cast especially the intelligently drawn lead player. Anyone who ever resided in the big city knows
a
Jane story, but Melissa Senate brings humor, passion, and poignancy to a delightful person that
makes the Red Dress Ink imprint start at a high level of quality.
Overkill
Susan McBride
Mayhaven
Oct 2001, 14.95, 255 pp. ISBN: 1878044877
Former Dallas police officer Maggie Ryan quit the big city force because of the high death rate
and
the unending supply of hardened criminals to deal with everyday. She transferred to suburban
Litchfield where one homicide has occurred in the last decade. Maggie and her partner investigate
the killing of a special education teenager afflicted with Wilson's Syndrome riding a school bus
and
the shooting of the driver. The police, especially Maggie, want to catch the killer, but have no
evidence and a witness whose memory is at best fuzzy. Maggie keeps digging, trying to find the
motive for killing a learning disabled innocent. Susan McBride lives up to the promise of her first
book, And Then She Was Gone, with a powerful gritty tale. Overkill depicts the darkest of human
emotions that cause individuals to bypass their better impulses so they can perform ugly deeds.
The
protagonist provides no easy answers as readers admire her ability to survive hell making her quite
a
role model for both genders. On top of that the exciting mystery with its unforeseen climax makes
this a must read.
The Corrections
Jonathan Franzen
Farrar Straus & Giroux
Sep 2001; $26.00; 528 pp. ISBN: 0374129983
Alfred Lambert was the patriarch and the disciplinarian of a family of five. However, he now
suffers
ignobly from Parkinson's disease and has plenty of elder care needs. His spouse Enid wants to
remain loyal to her long time mate and provider, or at least her memory of him. However, she
feels
more like a hostage to his sickness though choosing to ignore his illness and dream about anything
more uplifting to care about. Their only daughter Denise begins a job in a hip bistro in
Philadelphia.
However, she puts her work in jeopardy when she begins an affair with her boss' spouse. The
oldest
son Gary struggles with depression. With the help of his wife he steps closer to the abyss of a
breakdown. The youngest son Chip loses his academic job due to a student. He almost loses his
life
next on some fraudulent scheme in Europe. The Lambert brood appears all ready to self-destruct
and yet each one keeps alive in their heart a glimmer of hope for a better future. The Corrections
is a
humorous yet extremely serious look at an American family against a backdrop of the world
scene.
The story line is bitter, melancholy, and yet somehow manages to be optimistic as well. Each
member of the Lambert brood is a genuine individual struggling to cope with life. Though harsh in
many respects, humor keeps the novel from becoming too maudlin. Jonathan Franzen, who writes
a
novel every decade or so, shows why he is one of the best authors with this must read classic look
at
the American way of life.
Screenscam
Michael Bowen
Poisoned Pen Press
Oct 2001, $24.95, 192 pp. ISBN: 1890208914
Rep Pennyworth is a junior partner in a major Indiana law firm, but he is not a typical Midwest
lawyer. He is content in his relatively low-level position and has no desire for any excitement
especially at work. His only exception is his enjoyment for spanking fantasies that he indulges in
chat
rooms and Internet porn sites. His quiet lifestyle changes when he is forced to take on Charlotte
Buchanan as a client since her father is one of the firm's most important clients. She wrote a novel
"And Done No Other's Harm", which was made into movie without her consent or remuneration.
What is a simple case of copyright infringement turns into a criminal conspiracy that threatens
Rep's
life. Screenscam is a satirical take on legal thrillers that uses humor to enhance the plot. The
protagonist is an "everyman" with the concerns and fears that all humans have. That makes the
hero
accessible and likable to the audience in spite of his fetish, which is the high point of slapstick.
Michael Bowen has a refreshing style of writing that will make this author a cult favorite.
Ill Met By Moonlight
Sarah A. Hoyt
Ace
Oct 2001, $21.95, 288 pp. ISBN: 0425008607
A young Will Shakespeare is married to Nan and is a father to their baby Susannah. After a day of
teaching, Will comes home to his Stratford residence only to find both his beloved females
missing.
He walks to her cousin's house to fetch Nan when he sees her dancing with a noble in a magical
kingdom that cannot exist. He is unable to touch her because she is now in Fairyland. Will has no
hope of ever getting back Nan and his child until he meets Silverdawn in her guise as Lady Silver.
She is the rightful heir to the fairy throne since her parents disappeared. However, her older
brother
Sylvanus has usurped the throne turning her into his supplicant. Silverdawn intends to use Will as
an
instrument of revenge even though she knows he will probably die for her cause. Ill Met By
Moonlight is a delightful Elizabethan fantasy that colorfully describes Shakespeare's mundane
plane
and the realm of fairy. Will is the hero of the tale, yet the novel belongs to Silverdawn, a fairy with
heart. Hopefully Shakespeare will have more adventures in the land of the fairy.
Eager To Please
Julie Parsons
Simon & Schuster
Oct 2001, $24.00, 303 pp. ISBN: 0743219317
Rachel Beckett is a well to do woman, educated and in love with her husband Martin. She is crazy
about her daughter Amy, but her world ends when blood tests prove that it is impossible for
Martin
to be the biological father of Amy. Martin confronts Rachel who becomes so distraught she takes
his
gun. When the police arrive, they find Martin shot to death. The police investigate and arrest
Rachel.
A jury convicts Rachel of murder in the first degree. She serves twelve years of a life sentence
when
she is finally released. She plans on one thing with her new freedom, vengeance on the individual
who wronged her. Julie Parsons writes excellent psychological suspense that is reminiscent of the
works of Ruth Rendell and Minette Walters. Although this is a third person account, the
protagonist's every thought is available so that the audience understands her motivation. Eager To
Please is a haunting novel that will please its audience from the first page to its' dramatic
climax.
Rag Man
Pete Hautman
Simon & Schuster
Oct 2001, $23.00, 252 pp ISBN: 0743205596
Mack MacWray ran the sewing operation of Linkway Sportswear when the firm hired Lars
Larson
as national sales manager. Gradually, the two men bond and become friends so when Lars decides
to
open up his own company to compete with Linkway, Mack joins him, forming a partnership, Mac
Lar Manufacturing. Mack owns sixty percent and is president. Mack believes everything is going
perfect as demand is way ahead of supply and credit is readily available if needed. However,
everything abruptly collapses when Lars vanishes, taking all the liquid assets with him. Some time
later by either a cosmic thirst for revenge or just a colossal coincidence, Mack meets Lars in
Mexico,
an unexpected rendezvous that changes the ethical man forever. Pete Hautman has written an
exceptional tale centering on the impact of a con artist misjudging his mark. The story line is fast
paced with plenty of action and credible characters especially the lead duo though the
transformation
of Mack from a caring brilliant individual into a cold clone of Lars seems abrupt. Still Rag Man is
a
pleasant reading experience.
Pale Horse Coming
Stephen Hunter
Simon & Schuster
Oct 2001, $25.00, 487 pp. ISBN: 0684863618
By 1951 Thebes, Mississippi is a ghost town converted to a penal colony for Negro criminals.
Once
in you never leave as the only egress is by boat in a casket. The warden and guards run a tight
operation making life miserable for the prisoners because the standard operating norm is whipping
and torture. The men in charge use all sorts of diabolical devices to keep the prisoners in line and
cowed. Attorney Sam Vincent travels to Thebes to meet a client, but is illegally detained by the
law
enforcement officials running the facility. Earl Swagger knows Sam is inside Thebes and sets out
to
free his friend. Earl frees Sam, but is caught instead. Big Boy, who runs the prison, periodically
tortures Earl, who with a bit of luck escapes vowing to return to burn this little corner of hell to
the
ground. Pale Horse Coming is a juicy thriller that shows how little freedom blacks had in the 1951
south. The novel shocks, excites, and enthralls the audience. The plot serves as a testament to the
unknown heroes fighting injustice to make things right for everyone. Stephen Hunter is a fantastic
writer who knows how to entertain and educate his fans.
The Story Of Jane
Catherine Cusset
Simon & Schuster
Sep 2001, $25.00, 304 pp. ISBN: 0743202996
Disturbed over a recent death, New England Professor Jane Cook steps out of her apartment to
see
the package on the floor next to the Times. She picks it up noticing the fountain pen ink used on
the
mailing address. She figures it came from Alex though there is no return address. However, Jane
quickly realizes that the package was sent from New York five days ago and Alex is and has been
in
France. When she opens it up she finds an unbound manuscript title The Story Of Jane. Stunned
and
unable to resist, Jane begins to read her biography over the last decade or so in great detail. The
writings describe her professional climb up the academic ladder and her personal descent down
the
personal stairwell. Though not arguing over events or people, Jane questions the feelings the
anonymous author assigns her actions and reactions. Jane wonders who could know so much
about
what happened to her. Though the mystery of the anonymous author adds a sense of suspense, the
theme of The Story Of Jane focuses on a contemporary woman's struggles in life. Readers see
Jane
through the biographer's bias especially when Jane challenges the interpretation of her feelings at
the
time, a historiographer's delight especially when Jane implicitly agrees with the author on the
events.
Still, the audience will have to accept the concept that someone can write a detailed life on
someone
else who is not readily documented in the media. Better yet, fans of contemporary women's fiction
are the audience who will enjoy this tale.
Steppin' On A Rainbow
Kinky Friedman
Simon & Schuster
Sep 2001, $23.00, 208 pp. ISBN: 0684864878
The entire borough of Manhattan must be on vacation except for Kinky Friedman and his silent
feline. Things look boring from every perspective until reporter Will Hoover calls to inform Kinky
that one of his Village Irregulars Mike McGovern has vanished. Knowing the importance of
taking
care of your own kind, Kinky prefers boredom and ignoring Mike's disappearance. However, that
maniac Stephanie DuPont has to come home to bury her pain in butt mutt. In her delicate bull in a
crowded midtown bar approach to life, Stephanie puts the pressure on Kinky to travel to that
Pacific
Island Hawaii where Mike disappeared while on a beach stroll. Joined by other friends, Kinky and
Stephanie head to Hawaii only to be caught up in island folklore with Don Ho as their guide, but
those are not Tiny Bubbles trying to sacrifice the New York mob. The latest Kinky Friedman
investigative tale is as wild, irreverent, and amusing as ever as the Kinkster gives Manhattan a
break
and takes out his charm on Hawaii. The change of scenery shows that Kinky can be placed in the
middle of Wall St. or inside a volcano and still act the same. As usual in a Kinky tale, it is the
characters and their facetious actions, reactions, and antics that light up an offbeat investigation.
No
question that the Islanders (that is Hawaiians) would want to not only deport Kinky and company
back to that other island, but also keep him persona non grata for at least five lifetimes as this
crowd
is no Gidget Takes Hawaii crowd.
Exposed
Julie Elizabeth Leto
Harlequin Blaze
Aug 2001, $4.50, 248 pp. ISBN 0373790082
In San Francisco, Ariana Karas devotes her life to making her Greek restaurant, Ari's Oasis, a
success. Maxwell Forrester is a regular at Ari's Oasis, but surprisingly may be the only repeat male
customer whom has not tried to pick up Ari. Needing time off and wanting romance, albeit only
for
a week, Ari decides to see first hand how Max can fill her nights with warmth and sex. Timing
may
be a bit off, as Max is to marry his best friend's cousin, a friend also, tomorrow. Max has chosen
friendship as the key to his nuptials rather than love and his future spouse Madelyn apparently
agrees. However, at his bachelor party someone drugs Max. When he awakens the next morning
he
finds the lovely Ari sharing his bed and his bride missing. Though he worries about Maddie and
has
problems remembering the night, Max finds he wants passion in his bed, which means Ari, but she
wants a week or is she reconsidering perhaps a lifetime? However someone is exposing their tryst.
Exposed lives up to the Blaze imprint, as this contemporary romance is torrid. The story line heats
up the pages and explains what is meant by a warm San Francisco night though the animal
magnetism of the lead duo though the plot turns a bit thin with the exposure of the blazing affair.
Still, fans will still relish the story line because the passion between Ari and Max is not just real, it
is
a feeling that every reader desires and Julie Elizabeth Leto catches every solar spark between her
stars.
Notorious
Vicki Lewis Thompson
Harlequin
Aug 2001, $4.50, 251 pp. ISBN: 0373790058
Though he has been to Las Vegas before on the rodeo circuit, Saguaro Junction, Arizona rancher
Noah Garfield only returns for the wedding of an old rodeo friend. Being in town makes Noah
sadly
contemplate on the state of his relationships as all his friends have one woman in their lives. He
reflects back a decade to Keely Branscom posing as the centerfold for Macho magazine when he
sees her entering a strip joint. Noah immediately assumes that Keely is about to peel the flesh
again.
In actuality, Keely is a reporter for Attitudes Magazine and does stories on sexual fantasies. Never
forgiving Noah for his rejection of her, she decides to let him think the worst of her, not that
stripping is a bad occupation in Keely's mind. When he goes as far as offering to save her from
herself, she cannot resist playing along with a man she has always loved, but feels was born old,
prim
and proper. Notorious is an amusing romantic romp filled with innuendo and plenty of heated
scenes
yet somehow the theme never is buried under an avalanche of page after page of sex. The jocular
and blazing story line centers on relationships that need to embrace differences rather than scorn
them so that everyone can win. Keely makes the tale happen in a Holly Golightly kind of way that
shows why this new imprint chose Vicki Lewis Thompson to be the opening act.
The Very Comely Countess
Miranda Jarrett
Sonnet
Oct 2001, $6.50, 384 pp. ISBN: 0743417933
In 1799 London, William Manderville an Earl concludes that the actresses he uses to cover his
government work on the French coast are failures. He needs someone different and thinks he
found
his answer in the drawing done by a Duchess of an orange seller commoner. When William finds
the
orange seller Harriet Treene he shows her the picture saying his friend will pay her if she poses as
a
model. At the family pie shop, Harriet notices her older sister Bett looks tired from work, raising
an
infant, and being pregnant. Harriet decides to accept the Duchess' offer to paint her for a fee.
Harriet
visits the Duchess but William arrives and offers her a deal. He will finance a tea shop for her in
exchange for her posing as his mistress on his messenger trips to France. As they act out the
masquerade neither expected love or the danger that awaits them in France from an individual
seeking revenge. The Very Comely Countess, the sequel to the Daring Duchess, is an exciting tale
due to the espionage subplot and a glimpse at the working class, but especially because of the love
story between a commoner and a noble. Though this book uses the same plot device as its
predecessor and lacks the locale creativeness of the first book, fans will enjoy the tale because the
lead characters are a delightful daring duo who deserve a lifetime together. Regency romantic
suspense fans will gain much pleasure from award winning Miranda Jarrett's wonderful tale.
There Are Doors
Gene Wolfe
Orb
Oct 2001, $14.95, 313 pp. ISBN: 0312872305
He spent last evening in bliss, but in the morning, headache and all, her note saying she loved him,
but had to go back stuns him. Taking aspirin, salesman Mr. Green searches for his beloved, but
Lara
Morgan seems to have vanished. He knows very little about her, but realizes she left clues such as
her confusion over recent modern appliances like icemakers and mentioned something about
doors.
Mr. Green soon believes that Lara is the Goddess who once in a while finds a human lover. Her
choice in men is nice males who reside on the fringe of society. She gives them her all before
leaving, but the man left behind is ruined for any other female. Mr. Green knows he must find the
doors, enter, and risk all to reclaim his beloved as his. He soon finds a strange doll store that has a
doll that looks like a teenage Lara. He now has hopes to locate the doors, but if he succeeds will
he
embark on a journey to heaven or hell? There Are Doors is a reprint of a classic Gene Wolfe
romantic fantasy. The story line is cleverly devised as Mr. Wolfe revises Saki's the Lady or the
Tiger
and places it in a fantasy world, that is if the reader accepts Mr. Green as sane. Fans of Mr. Wolfe
need to realize this novel is vastly different than his epic tales yet quite entertaining as the
nondescript Mr. Green finds a reason to live, a quest for love.
Mistress Of The Catacombs
David Drake
Tor Books
Sep 2001, $26.95, 464 pp. ISBN: 0312873875
Former peasant, Prince Garric has done the impossible. Garric has forged a government with him
in
charge of the Kingdom of the Isles. This is the first central government in a millennium plus years.
However, not everyone is content with Garric ruling the Isles. Rebels and their outside allies unite
to
try to overthrow the new regime. Led by wizards who see mortals as cannon fodder and the
Children of the Mistress, who cast spells, Garric's foes have overwhelming superiority in numbers,
weapons, and magic. Thus, when the final battle happens, Garric's chances of surviving is ground
zero let alone winning, but then again he shares cerebral space with his ancestor, the brilliant
strategist King Carus. The fourth book in the Lord of the Isles series, Mistress Of The
Catacombs, is
a strong epic fantasy that will elate readers of previous tales and send newcomers seeking those
novels. The tale has all the elements expected in a high fantasy adventure, but centers on the
coming
of age of a youngster thrust into a position of grave responsibility. David Drake flies like an eagle,
proving he is one of the stronger speculative fiction authors.
Ashling
Isobelle Carmody
Tor Books
Sep 2001, $26.95, 428 pp. ISBN: 0312869568
She has been expecting the summons forever, but Misfit Elspeth always hoped it would never
come.
Alas, the time arrives and she reluctantly starts her trek to forge an alliance between the
paranormal
Misfits and the rebels against the Council and the Herders, who want all Misfits dead. Elspeth's
dreams demand she destroy the weapons of destruction left behind by the Beforetimers when they
obliterated their world. However, her nocturnal visions remain mysteries to even her. Adding to
her
discomfit, the rebels have doubts about a coalition with the Misfits because the leadership thinks
there are safer, better unions available to forge a stronger team. Can Elspeth obtain the
cooperation
the Misfits needed in their fight for survival and can she learn the secrets of her haunting dreams
that
propel her to leave her mountain home to risk everything including her life. Ashling, the third
book
of Isobelle Carmody's powerful Obernewtyn Chronicles, is the strongest tale of a wonderful
fantasy
series. The story line moves quite a bit forward with the action remaining at the high peaks of the
previous novels, but readers gain tremendous understanding of the charcaters, especially the lead
heroine. Other cast members are also developed to a degree that allows the audience to fully
understand the varying people and animals populating Obernewtyn. Fantasy fans have quite a treat
with this superb entry that raises an already wonderful saga to much higher levels of quality.
Mother Of Kings
Poul Anderson
Tor Books
Sep 2001, $27.95, 444 pp. ISBN: 0312874480
In the tenth century, Gunnhild, daughter of a Norse chieftain, learns her lessons quite well as a
child.
Her father's concubine teaches her how witchcraft can aid and protect a female from men. The
death
of her mother teaches her to never yield to male ogres and their demands and commands.
Gunnhild
vows to never be a weak female dependent on the other sex for safety and comfort. To attain her
goal of total independence, Gunnhild trains under witches and sorcerers learning the crafts. She
marries the only man she ever felt affection for, Eirik Blood-Ax. Together with their strengths and
iron- wills, they will either forge a dynasty that legends will whisper about for millenniums to
come
or fade to dust under the relentless attack of their enemies who want this union to fail. Poul
Anderson is already a legend among speculative fiction readers and authors. Yet his latest dark
tale,
Mother Of Kings, shows why the recently deceased author has been revered for decades and the
recipient of so many prestigious awards. The genre's guru blends mythology and history into a
powerhouse of a tale that tells readers the story of Gunnhild, a real persona who has received
legendary status over the last millennium. The gritty but vivid story line provides a powerful look
at
the tenth century as rarely seen by literature except perhaps Beowulf and that is a few centuries
earlier. The beginning of the end of the Age of the Vikings is fitting posthumous triumph from
one
of the greats.
Mother Ocean, Daughter Sea
Diana Marcellas
Tor Books
Sep 2001, $27.95, 416 pp. ISBN: 0312874847
On the planet Yarvanett, Brierly Mefell is fully aware of the heritage of her people the Shari'a.
The
Allemanii massacred most of the Shari'a fearing the powers of the witches. Any individual who
shows the gift of witchcraft is put too death. The few survivors were scattered. Brierly lives in a
cave because she has the outlawed feared power. In spite of knowing the danger of discovery,
Brierly provides healing services to the very people who committed genocide against her race and
would kill her if they knew. However, a calling forces Brierly to surface in order to save the life of
an Allemanii noblewoman. Brierly knows she can no longer hide amidst her enemies. Ready to
escape Brierly hesitates because she has found another Shari'a witch. Brierly believes she needs to
protect this sister at even the cost of her own life. Mother Ocean, Daughter Sea is an exciting
opening fantasy that readers will find delightful because the key players seem real. The story line
is
loaded with the fears of the Allemanii towards the mostly dead witches of Shari'a and that haunts
most actions. The key to that tale is that palatable phobia and that Brierly and her powers feel
genuine. Diana Marcellas has opened up with a strong novel that will mesmerize the audience
who
will want the next two books released immediately.
Adventures In Time And Space With Max Merriwell
Pat Murphy
Tor Books
Nov 2001, $24.95, 288 pp. ISBN: 0312866437
Susan Galina is having a difficult time of it as the California librarian lost her job at about the same
time her divorce became final. Winning first prize in a contest keeps Susan from falling into a
depression. Susan and a friend will travel on a cruise from New York to Bermuda and the Azores
before debarking in England. Also on the luxury liner is famous author Max Merriwell, who uses
three different pseudonyms to write in three different genres. Susan looks forward to attending
Max's lectures and hopes to meet the renowned writer. However, when the liner enters the
Bermuda
Triangle, a strange occurrence happens. Max's aliases come to life. One causes trouble; one
befriends Susan, and one triggers the inexplicable. When the lines of reality blur, imagination
becomes focused, which is the theme of Pat Murphy's novel. It enables the reader to forget the
intellect and allow the wildest thoughts to flow into a reality. Adventures In Time And Space
With
Max Merriwell needs a warning label not to venture with Max Merriwell into the Bermuda
Triangle
unless you want to enjoy a satirical Twilight Zone ride.
Swim The Moon
Paul Brandon
Tor Books
Sep 2001, $25.95, 380 pp. ISBN: 0312877943
Six years ago Richard Brennan fled Scotland following the death of his wife because he could not
cope with the memories and his subsequent grief. Now, he takes an all day and night flight home
from Australia to attend his father's funeral. Ironically, his father, an architect, drowned just like
Richard's spouse did. To escape his latest sorrow that his current residence reminds him of with
every nook and cranny, and his bewilderment about fate, Richard plays his fiddle in gigs in the
nearby pubs. Still feeling alone, he wonders if he finally is losing his mind when Ailish appears
ecstatically dancing and singing under the seaside moonlight. Richard joins her music with his
fiddle,
but soon loses his heart and soul to this siren of the sea. Swim The Moon is a beautiful fantasy
that
provides imagery rarely seen in a novel whether it is Ailish or Richard's music, or the Northern
Scottish coast. Richard is a haunting individual tormented by his love-hate for the sea that holds
the
mysteries of his family and his new love Ailish. Though some of the dialogue seems stilted,
perhaps
because the story line is so beautifully written, Paul Brandon's debut tale is a throwback to the
bards
of yore when poetry painted landscapes of the soul.
Conan The Rebel
Poul Anderson
Tor Books
Oct 2001, $23.95, 223 pp. ISBN: 0765300729
Due to the machinations of the evil sorcerer Tothapis, Set the reptile God cruelly rules Stygia. Set
warns Tothapis that a threat to their well being comes from the alliance between Conan and Belit,
who met in sword to sword combat, felt an attraction and joined sides. Belit leads pirates trying to
free her people from the reptile's rule while Conan lays back providing strategic advice to her.
Everything changes when Conan finds the Axe of Veranghi. Instead of just advising, he begins to
take charge. Along side Belit, Conan leads her force in combat as they close in on a final
confrontation with the reptile God and his wicked minion including the powerful Tothapis. The
great
Poul Anderson takes readers on a journey into the Cimmerian world of Robert E. Howard. The
story line of Conan The Rebel starts a bit slower than usual for our hero meaning body counts that
would make Westmoreland and MacNamara envious. This enables the audience to understand
better
the support cast, but not why Conan seems more like California mellow than the wild barbarian
that
is expected of him. Once Conan returns to his normal tendencies, the head count geometrically
grows and the action with it. Though a fine tale, purists will feel this is not Mr. Howard or even
the
Marvel comic.
The Void Captain's Tale
Norman Spinrad
Tor Books
Sep 2001, $12.95, 222 pp. ISBN: 0312868251
Dragon Zephyr Void Captain Genro Kane Gupta delivers goods and passengers to Estrella
Bonita.
During a stop Genro meets beautiful Dominique Alia Wu. The woman is a shocker because she is
a
jump pilot. Everyone knows that jump pilots are physically wasted, as they are the keys to
interstellar jumps that each time kills them a little more. This makes Dominique an enigma.
Dominique asks Genro to jump blind. His failing to set the proper navigational mix will free her so
that she lands in eternal ecstasy inside the Void. Fascinated by her, he leans towards neglecting his
duty to his crew, passengers and himself because no one knows what will happen if a ship jumps
blind. Though at times the use of "modern vernacular" slows down the story line because the
reader
needs time to interpret, The Void Captain's Tale remains a strong science fiction novel. The theme
compares sexual prowess with power and the hold that sexual needs have on humans (Freud must
have been a passenger on the Dragon Zephyr). The tale is different, but works on several levels
because readers can feel the magnetic tension between the Void Captain and the Void Pilot. First
released in the 1980s Norman Spinrad's novel still spins quite a tale.
Ghost Of The White Knights
L.E. Modesitt, Jr.
Tor Books
Oct 2001, $24.95, 400 pp. ISBN: 0765300958
This earth is a lot different than that which contains science fiction readers of popular novels
written
by authors like L.E. Modesitt, Jr. Here Columbia is one of several nations that have carved out a
segment of the North American continent. Columbia is actually what fans of Mr. Modesitt, Jr.
would
recognize as the eastern United States. In this alternate plane, scientists know how to remove the
soul from the living host to create a zombie and that if the soul lingers after the individual dies in
distress, a ghost exists. Columbia desperately needs oil and feel Romanov's Russian Alaska is the
solution. As part of a cultural exchange with Russia, Columbia sends critically acclaimed singer
Llysette to Russia to perform for the Czar. Llysette's spouse Doktor Johan Eschbach, a professor
of
Environmental Science, accompanies her ostensibly to provide his beloved wife support, but
actually
to see what he can do to expedite an oil agreement. A former secret agent, Johan soon finds
himself
embroiled in stopping a dangerous plot for world domination from happening, one that will use
new
and very dangerous weapons. The final novel in the "Ghost" trilogy, Ghost Of The White Nights,
is
an engaging entry that focuses on an alternate world. The book wraps up the series nicely though
fans will want more novels. The story line is at its best when delving into "modern" weapons
systems
and ghosts in the machine technology. However, long sidebars on Llysette's tour turn readers into
ghostly zombies. Still the audience will enjoy the final tale as L.E. Modesitt, Jr. paints a realm that
feels real from a historical and scientific basis.
Too High
Corson Hirschfeld
Forge
Sep 2001, $25.95, 464 pp. ISBN: 0765300117
Jungle Jim Bybee was driving his bus filled with 436 rattlesnakes through McAfee County,
Kentucky, when he took a hairpin curve too fast. He dies in the subsequent crash, but his cargo
escape. At around the same time that Jungle Jim's serpents tasted freedom, Hawaiian archeologist
Harmon "Digger" Fitz is in town for a family reunion with his cousin retired archeologist Edgar
Fitz
and his niece Nikki. However, instead of meeting up with Edgar, County Sheriff Cooney McCoy
informs him his relative is dead. Not trusting law enforcement officials to seek the truth and
justice
as opposed to solving the case by blaming the "foreigner" namely himself, Digger accompanied by
Nikki begin digging for clues. Soon Digger and Nikki find themselves in a tug of war between
two
rivals wanting to possess French and Indian War artifact. The duo also tries to avoid an
assortment
of lunatics claiming Armageddon has arrived marked by the serpents among them and a militia
ready
to destroy the world to stop the FBI-ET collusion from succeeding. Though threads are left
dangling
and the who-done-it seems more like a subplot, fans who enjoy a farcical very amusing jaunt will
take pleasure from Too High. The story line is a wild ride in the countryside as the likable and
intelligent Digger bounces from one misadventure to another in comic often slapstick style. The
cast
provides perspective often in a fringe viewpoint, which in turn makes Corson Hirschfeld's novel a
fun to read experience and send the audience seeking the author's first novel, Aloha, Mr.
Lucky.
The Mosquito War
V.A. MacAlister
Forge
Sep 2001, $25.95, 320 pp. ISBN: 0312878702
In Gaithersburg, Maryland, lab technician Su Thom knows his company, SeaGenesis
Pharmaceutical
is nearing a cure for malaria. Though rarely seen in the United States, this deadly disease haunts
the
third world so that more people die from it than AIDS and that includes members of Su Thom's
family. The firm abruptly halts the tests on the potential cure, dubbed "Popeye" because it looks
like
spinach though extracted from sea sponges. Angered and very frustrated Su Thom decides to
bring
home the nightmare of malaria by cultivating the disease and releasing it in Washington DC.
SeaGenesis scientist Zee Aspen and security expert Connor Gale wonder why so many accidents
are
associated with the "Popeye" project. They join forces and quickly realize the CIA is involved
with
the pharmaceutical company, but do not know why. As this duo steps closer to the truth, Su
Thom
proceeds towards unleashing a pandemic horror on America unless the two intrepid
"investigators"
learn enough about his plot to stop him. With the West Nile Virus making headlines and though
preferring to ignore the terrorizing theme, readers will accept as authentic the basic premise of
The
Mosquito War. The realistic story line is fast-paced and enticing in a voyeuristic manner as the
audience will enjoy accompanying Zee under the sea, but preferring to keep a malaria epidemic at
a
distance. The look at the impact of the disease on innocent victims actually slows down the tale
even
as it adds depth to the horror that V.A. MacAlister describes. This is a strong biological thriller
that
will open many eyes that would prefer to remain shut.
The World's Finest Mystery And Crime Stories II
Ed Gorman and Martin H Greenberg, editors
Forge
Oct 2001, $18.95, 688 pp. ISBN: 0765301016
This reviewer now understands G-Force as simply Gorman and Greenberg combining their
immense
talents on unsuspecting readers by providing the best anthologies. The latest collection provides
the
audience with over forty short stories from the wide gamut of sub-genres that makes up the
mystery
realm. Almost all the contributions are superb as many of the genre's top guns provided an entry.
There is also several articles providing understanding of the state of the genre in the year 2000
including insight into the status in several nations. This reviewer split her time by reading one of
the
eight articles for every five fictionalized stories because bluntly though the accounts are
interesting;
it is the fiction that draws the reader including moi. G-Force has succeeded once gain with an
engaging collection that genre fans will enjoy because the stories are entertaining and the articles
fascinating with where we have been and where we seem to be going.
Chapel Noir
Carole Nelson Douglas
Forge
Oct 2001, $25.95, 480 pp. ISBN: 0312854935
In 1889 American Irene Adler Norton resides in Paris with her beloved British husband Godfrey.
At
first the social swirl provides Irene with much distraction, but that quickly turns boring for the
only
known female to outwit and out-deduce the great Sherlock Holmes. Thus, when the police, acting
at
the direction of a higher up, ask her to assist with the inquiries into the murders of prostitutes,
Irene
jumps at the opportunity. Upon seeing the brutalized corpse of the latest victim, a horrified Irene
immediately thinks of London and Ripper. Unable to resist full involvement, Irene begins to
investigate the grisly homicides only to find that once again she competes with the internationally
renowned Holmes. Anyone who enjoys the full Holmes pantheon (not just Doyle's prime piece of
heaven) will want to read the first Irene Adler novel released in several years. The story line is
exciting as Victorian Paris comes to life through the eyes of Irene and her shocked companion
Nell.
Holmes also plays a secondary but important role. The who-done-it is cleverly designed so that it
is
elementary to Dr. Watson that this novel is quite appealing. Fans of Holmes will want to read
Chapel Noir, Carole Nelson Douglas previous Adler novels and demand a shorter gap for her next
appearance.
Executive Privilege
Jay Brandon
Forge
Oct 2001, $25.95, 464 pp. ISBN: 0312874251
One of the prime reasons John McPherson is elected President of the United States is he is
scandal
free. There are no stained dresses or other skeletons in his closet leaving a wary populace to
believe
the intelligent charming John will concentrate on Dow Jones. The First Lady Myra and First Son
Randy add to the aura of the All-American family. The fa‡ade hides the reality that John is an
aloof
control freak who will do anything including illegal activities to increase and strengthen his power
over the country. However, the unthinkable occurs when Myra decides to become the first
woman
to divorce a sitting president. She quietly turns to attorney David Owens for help, claiming she
and
Randy are his toys for public show and is afraid what her husband might do to their preadolescent
child. When John learns what Myra is doing, he uses the entire power of the American Presidency
to
bring his "loved ones" home or kill them before either one reveals the truth about his personality
and
his dealings. Regardless of whether the reader accepts the Executive Privilege mistreatment by
John,
the entire audience will enjoy this thriller. The story line is fast-paced and never slows down as
John
employs the might of his office to destroy his beleaguered wife and son whose only protection is
her
lawyer and secret service agents assigned to them. Jay Brandon provides a powerfully nightmarish
look at abuse of power though some readers will claim it is FEMA to watch out for, not the
Office
of President that is always inside a media fishbowl, and a Congressional checks and balances tug
of
war.
Counting Coup
Jack Dann
Forge
Oct 2001, $24.95, 305 pp. ISBN: 0765301857
Sixty plus years old apartment super Charlie Sarris is outraged that the landlord rented out the
room
by the water heater. Charlie uses that room to drink himself into oblivion. The new renter, failed
Indian medicine man John Stone, is also in his mid sixties and enjoys alcohol as much as Charlie,
which leads to a drinking camaraderie. Charlie is awed by the duality of John's nature as the
medicine man oozes a calming serenity while just below that soothing surface lies a disappointed
outrage that occasionally surfaces. Soon the two buddies trek to a lodge near Binghamton where
another medicine man, Joe Whiteshirt may have caused John's painful burns. When Charlie learns
that his teenage daughter is pregnant, he is unable to cope so he accompanies John to Florida for
a
final showdown with Whiteshirt. Counting Coup is an insightful look at two aging, acerbic
individuals struggling with lost and wasted youth. The tale employs Native American mysticism
and
New Age elements to further contrast the theme of aging road warriors refusing to accept that life
has past them by. Charlie and Jack are excellent characters whom readers will find interesting due
to
Jack Dann's in depth look at their flawed personalities that seems like a forecast of what boomers
expecting to change the world for the better can contemplate will happen to them. Though a bit to
New Agey at times, Mr. Dann can count coup with the many readers who will find this novel very
fascinating.
No Other Option
Marcus Wynne
Forge
Sep 2001, $24.95, 320 pp. ISBN: 0312877951
The president signed the executive order forming Dominance Rain, an ultra elite group of twelve
operatives who made the SEALS, Special Forces and other upper echelon units look lie wimps.
Very few people know that this cell exists as a cross between the military and the CIA handling
special assignments. However, the cadre's top gun, Jonny Maxwell is convicted of rape and sent
to
Leavenworth based on the testimony of his best friend and fellow dog Dale Miller. Jonny easily
escapes incarceration killing at least one guard in the process. Dominance Rain chief Ray Dalton
sends his best man Dale Miller to bring in the convict before things really turn ugly, but he is too
late
as the body count mounts along the Mississippi River. Dale joins forces with Minneapolis police
detective Nina Capushek in an effort to stop the bloody trail of a person who he still considers a
brother. No Other Option is an exciting thriller that works on two levels. First off, the story line
flows with bodies from the start, as Jonny has no remorse while killing. On the other hand, the
plot
asks a much deeper question as to why a highly respected individual goes bad, but Marcus Wynne
cleverly avoids pat pseudo-psychological responses. Instead the audience has a winner that takes a
suspense action packed chiller with provocative concepts to a level rarely seen by a veteran writer
let alone a debut author Like Mr. Wynne.
September Song
Andrew M Greeley
Forge
Sep 2001, $24.95, 318 pp. ISBN: 0312872259
In 1965 American ambassador to the Federal Republic of Germany Charles O'Malley resigns in
protest of President Johnson sending 165,000 soldiers to fight in Viet Nam. Chuck and his wife
Rosemarie along with their five children return to Chicago. However, long time friend Bobby
Kennedy informs Chuck of the upcoming Selma, Alabama civil rights march. Chuck and
Rosemarie
immediately drop everything to join Dr. Martin Luther King on the protest walk. Over the next
few
years Chuck seems to be in the center of all the major events impacting this country in the late
1960s. Always at Chuck's side to hold his hand is his beloved Rosemarie. The forth installment of
the O'Malley chronicles is a fast forward spin through the turbulent sixties. The story line gives
readers an up front look at the major events of the post Kennedy part of the era, but lacks the
depth
to provide meaningfulness to younger readers. Chuck obviously is not starving as he can go into
activism mode without prior warning and the narrator Rosemarie worships her heroic husband
who
is too perfect for those of us who were there.
Black House
Stephen King and Peter Straub
Random House
$28.95, 625 pp. ISBN: 0375504397
Two decades have passed since Jack Sawyer saved a different world from destruction, but
remembers nothing about his heroism. Over the subsequent years Jack became a LAPD homicide
detective until an incident propels his subconscious mind into pushing him into a retirement in
Coulle
County, Wisconsin before he recollects his non-earthly gallantry. Life near the upper Mississippi is
pleasant for Jack until a series of gruesome homicides occur. Someone is dining on the town's
children. Chief of Police Dale Gilbertson knows his staff is undermanned and inexperienced. He
asks
his buddy Jack to help with the investigation into what appears is the youthful reincarnation of
Albert "Fisherman" Fish, a killer who used the same modus operendi several decades ago. As Jack
makes inquires he obtains aid from an assortment of fringe characters, but also begins to believe
that
the Fish is the puppet of something more malevolent and deadly. The sequel to the Talisman is an
incredible collaboration by two grandmasters brilliantly merging the best that each one brings to a
novel into one of the top books of the year. The story line is a superb horror tale that terrorizes
the
reader with fear. The characters seem genuine especially Jack. The references to other novels adds
a
Speilberg-like appeal especially to fans of Stephen King. Many times the reality never comes close
to
the hype, but Black House does that and more as Mr. King and Peter Straub co-author a classic
that
hopefully will not require twenty years for the next team-up.
Bag Limit
Steven F. Havill
St. Martin's Press
Nov 2001, $24.95, 336 pp. ISBN: 0312251831
Sheriff Bill Gastner of Posedas County, New Mexico is apprehensive yet happy because in
seventy-two hours an election to replace him is to occur. Bill is elated about retiring, but worries
whether his under-sheriff Bob Torrez will become his replacement, as the man deserves the job.
Bill
refuses to sit back and rest on his laurels. An underage DUI drives escapes from custody, but runs
right into a tractor-trailer. The dead teen possessed a real driver's license claiming he was over
twenty-one. The next day, someone kills the boy's father. As Bill investigates, he wonders why a
border agent shows so much interest in the two deaths. The Sheriff Gastner police procedurals are
all interesting, but this one is particularly fascinating as readers gain an in-depth look at border
town
life. The well-executed mystery is an enigma that keeps the audience off kilter, but the heart of
Bag
Limit remains as ever with the protagonist, a septuagenarian law enforcement official who has the
stamina of someone five decades younger.
Shakespeare's Counselor
Charlaine Harris
St. Martin's Press
Nov 2001, $22.95, 240 pp. ISBN: 0312277628
Following a gang raping and a media feeding frenzy, Lily moves to Shakespeare, Arkansas
accepting
work as a cleaning woman. The small town has had several homicides and usually Lily is found in
the middle of the investigation. She does not expect to ever have a normal relationship ever again
until Lily meets private investigator Jack, who convinces the scarred woman that she is beautiful
inside and out. Jack and Lily marry, but she still suffers nightmares from that brutal attack and
enters
group therapy under the auspices of Tamsin Lynd. The therapist has some problems caused by a
stalker who actually kills one of her patients. A reporter who wants to do a story about Tamsin is
also murdered. Lily and Jack decide to take down the stalker though it places them in danger from
a
homicidal maniac. Shakespeare's Counselor is the best work in this fine series because the
audience
empathetically feels the healing of Lily predominantly due to her bond with he beloved Jack. The
mystery is loaded with red herrings that hide the villain in plain sight so that the audience is
stunned
when the culprit is revealed. The vulnerable facet of Lily's personality emerges turning her more
likable and less of an object of pity. This strengthens a strong character and turns a wonderful
series
into a powerhouse.
Massacre Island
Martin Hegwood
St. Martin's Press
Oct 2001, $23.95, 288 pp. ISBN: 0312280955
All private investigator Jack Delmas wants to do is have fun with his daughter before she returns
home to her mother and watch a football game. However, his brother the lawyer sends a potential
client to Jack at his home in Bay St. Louis. Carolyn Caviss wants to know why someone killed her
beloved daughter Rebecca and three other people in Dauphin Island off the Alabama coast. Jack
wants to refuse the grieving woman stating that the police are still investigating the murders. He
cannot reject her plea especially when he sees the media is painting the quartet as a focus of drug
and orgy activities while the Sheriff does nothing except appear on TV. Jack travels to Dauphin
Island and begins a careful inquiry so as to not run a foul of the local law enforcement
investigation.
However, with the help of Deputy Jimbo McInnis, Jack begins to uncover a twisted case that
includes lunatic environmentalists, depraved wealthy individuals, and murderers who will kill a
private sleuth getting to close to the truth. Massacre Island is an engaging private investigative
mystery that works because the key players make the plot work. The story line is deep as the case
twists and turns with each step that appears to bring Jack closer to the truth yet ends up
meandering
further from why Rebecca died. Martin Hegwood provides an entertaining tale for those who
enjoy
a solid sleuthing story.
Custody
Nancy Thayer
St. Martin's Press
Nov 2001, $23.95, 320 pp. ISBN: 0312277342
Ever since she attended college, Kelly McLeod wanted to become a judge. To that end when her
stepfather stole her inheritance, Kelly earned money by becoming a surrogate mother. Now at
thirty-five Kelly is the youngest judge in the Massachusetts court system. However, her beloved
mother never saw Kelly attain to her goal because she died a few months earlier. Every Sunday,
Kelly visits her mother's grave, but begins to notice a handsome hunk also regularly pays his
respects
to his mother. The duo becomes friends and soon lovers, but neither realizes that Kelly is the
biological mother of Randall's daughter. Custody is a warm family drama with no villains or
heroes
just people doing their best to cope with life. Though coincidence enables Kelly and Randall to
meet,
the audience needs a warning that they will stay up all night to finish this novel in one sitting.
Nancy
Thayer's brilliance resides in her ability to make interesting tales starring people just like you and
I.
Act Of Mercy
Peter Tremayne
St. Martin's Press
Nov 2001, $23.95, 288 pp. ISBN: 0312268645
Sister Fidelma of Cashmal, daughter and sister to kings, takes a pilgrimage to Iberia to visit the
Shrine of St. James. She needs a respite from her royal sibling and from the Saxon monk Eadulf.
She
knows she has found her life's calling as a religieure, but hopes this odyssey will help her sort
some
mixed feelings especially her feelings about Eadulf. Alas, poor Fidelma received no respite on her
trek as her luck deserts her from the start when she meets first love Cian, who unceremoniously
dumped her years ago. Soon two women are killed and attempts on Fidelma's life occur. With the
ship's captain blessing, Fidelma begins investigating the homicides. In the eighth installment of the
Sister Fidelma historical mysteries, readers obtain a glimpse at the heart and soul of the heroine
that
paints a vivid picture of life in eight-century Ireland. The who-done-it is a marvelous piece of
misdirection, as the villain remains hidden until the end. When revealed, the audience will feel pity
towards the culprit. Act Of Mercy is a fantastic Dark Ages who-done-it.
Lilies That Fester
Janis Harrison
St. Martin's Press
Nov 2001, $23.95, 256 pp. ISBN: 0312284063
It has been two years since Bretta Solomon's husband died and she still misses him very much. He
was a police officer who used to discuss his cases with her because he felt she gave him very good
ideas on his investigations. Since her beloved past away, Bretta has solved two homicide cases to
the
chagrin of the local sheriff. She owns a flower shop that keeps her very busy and belongs to the
Show- Me Floral Designers Club who is hosting their first competition in Branson, Missouri.
Bretta
agrees to chair the event. When she arrives at the hotel, Bretta learns that a Mr. and Mrs. McDuff
want to hire her as a private investigator. Before she can meet with them, they are killed. Bretta's
friend also dies in what seems like an accident, but Bretta thinks three linked murders have
occurred
and she plans to prove it. Anyone who enjoys flowers will love an insider's look at a floral
convention. Lilies That Fester is a whimsical amateur sleuth novel that relies on brainpower to
figure
out the identity of the perpetrator. Janis Harrison writes a very visual novel that enables the reader
to picture the characters and the action in the mind's-eye.
Shades Of Murder
Ann Granger
St. Martin's Press
Oct 2001, $23.95, 288 pp. ISBN: 0312284454
In 1889 at Fourways house in the English village of Bamford, Cora Oakley informs her spouse
William she wants a separation. Ailing from an extracted tooth, Cora uses medicine to ease her
pain.
The next day she is found dead apparently poisoned. The police arrest William who stands trial
for
her murder. In 1999 William's descendants, two elderly sisters Damaris and Florence, are trying to
sell their ancestral home Fourways. However, a Polish veterinary surgeon claiming to be William's
great-grandson arrives. Jan demands half the profit from the sale of the house. Not long
afterward,
he is found dead from the same poison used to kill Cora. Superintendent Alan Markby and his
significant other Meredith Mitchell lead the investigation into whether two senior citizens pulled
an
arsenic and old lace operation that requires looking into the century plus old mystery as well.
Shades
Of Murder, the thirteenth Cotwolds village mystery, is a wonderful double murder story as Ann
Granger effortlessly moves back and forth between the two centuries. The story line is cleverly
designed, but the tale, as is the case in most of these novels, belongs to the lead couple, having
moved forward in their relationship and by doing so freshening up the plot.
Red Hook
Gabriel Cohen
St. Martin's Press
Oct 2001, $23.95, ISBN: 0312274580
Someone murdered Dominican Tomas Berrios, but before the killers can toss the body into the
nearby canal off Red Hook, Brooklyn, someone must have arrived. The culprits flee the crime
scene
leaving behind a corpse whose legs are tied to two concrete blocks. The crime makes no sense as
Tomas was considered a good citizen who worked hard, was married and had two children. Even
more surprising is the reaction of NYPD Detective Jack Leightner who vomits when he first sees
the
victim. Unable to resist the case, Jack obsessively investigates because a murder in Red Hook
brings
back his own unhappy childhood memories and a reminder of his own failings with his son just
like
his own dad failed with him. Apparently his son is beginning to emulate that relationship. Red
Hook
is a very good police procedural that is actually a powerful relationship drama. The story line is
fast-paced and filled with action as Jack makes inquiries into Tomas' murder, but also into why his
own life is such a failure at least in his mind. Gabriel Cohen takes Chapin's Cat in the Cradle and
places it inside an urban who-done-it starring realistic people who make quite an enjoyable
novel.
The Falls
Ian Rankin
St. Martin's Press
Nov 2001, $24.95, 400 pp. ISBN: 031220100
For two days Philippa "Flip" Balfour has been missing, which is so out of character for the
student,
the police are already involved. Now it might be that the influence of her powerful father led to
the
early investigation by Edinburgh Inspector John Rebus. He quickly uncovers two potential clues.
One is hand carved wooden doll in a small coffin and the other is Flip's love of participating in an
Internet role playing game. John tracks the dark history of the small coffins while Detective
Constable Siobhan Clarke joins the Internet crowd that Flip had belonged to before vanishing.
Though information is collected on both fronts, progress on the case is slow and the police have
not
found the link tying the two clues together, leaving this missing person investigation look more
like
another one for the unsolved files. The latest John Rebus tale contains all the right stuff that has
made this one of the best on going police procedural series on the market today. John and the
support cast remain fresh due to little things happening to them and around them such as a
thirty-year retirement of a peer. The story line combines historical and present Edinburgh, Internet
technology, and the usual clues, puns, and puzzles so that the audience walks along side Rebus as
he
investigates. Ian Rankin will rank among the top of all the bestseller lists with this entertaining
tale.
Got Your Number
Stephanie Bond
St. Martin's Press
Oct 2001, $6.50, 352 pp. ISBN: 0312976909
In Biloxi, Mississippi, though not talking to her father except for funerals, Roxann Beadleman
enjoys
volunteer work to help wives with abusive husbands. Soon something goes wrong, threats begin
to
happen, and Detective Joe Capistrano begins asking her questions. Deciding to run away, she
attends her cousin Angora Ryder's wedding in Baton Rouge feeling that it is a safe house because
everyone knows the strain between Roxann and her family. However, the marriage does not occur
as the groom leaves Angora waiting by herself at the altar. Humiliated Angora persuades Roxann
to
let her join her on the lam. The idea is bad, but having company is appealing so Roxann
acquiesces.
The twosome flee to their college. However running from one murder leaves Roxann in the
middle
of another homicide. Like the killer, Joe is closing in on the two women and he especially wants
to
keep Roxann safe for about five or so decades because he is falling in love with her just as she is
with him. Though one must wonder about some of Roxann's decisions and those of Angora too,
Got
Your Number grabs her fans with its thirties-like comedic romantic suspense. The story line is
loaded with twists as the two female leads fall in and out of one dilemma after another. Joe is a
heroic hunk struggling between love and duty. Stephanie Bond provides readers with that rare
humorous yet suspense laden novel that leaves the audience wanting more from a delightful
author.
Mad About Maddie
Cheryl Ann Porter
St. Martin's Press
Sep 2001, $6.50, 368 pp. ISBN: 0312978952
For the past three summers Maddie Copeland, owner of Maddie's Gifts, enjoyed the friendship of
octogenarian James Madison, a visitor of Hanscomb Harbor, Connecticut. The deceased's
grandson
Hank thinks the mysterious bimbo is another gold digger who got lucky when James died. When
they meet, he treats her accordingly though she finds herself attracted to him, but quite angry at
his
behavior towards her. Further shocking Maddie is that James named her in his will. She inherits
the
entire mega business that she never knew James owned if his grandson fails to take a six-week
vacation in Hanscomb Harbor with no business conducted there. If he succeeds, Maddie gains
James' personal fortune if she spends six weeks in New York. In both cases, they must report to
one
another. James had felt that Maddie and Hank are perfect and is playing matchmaker form heaven.
Readers will be mad about Cheryl Anne Porter's delectably humorous contemporary romance,
quite
a change from one of the top historical authors. The story line is very amusing as both lead
characters are attracted to one another and connected through their love of the recently departed,
but neither trusts the intentions of the other. Ms. Porter takes an old theme and brings freshness
to it
through the antics of Maddie and Hank to adhere and circumvent James' iron clad will.
A Woman Betrayed
Barbara Delinsky
Morrow
Nov 2001, $18.00, 416 pp. ISBN: 06621341X
Since they married over two decades ago, everyone who knows Jeff and Laura Frye thought they
were the poster chidlren for perfect marriages. However, one day Jeff fails to return home.
Laura's
first inclination is that her husband is hurt from an accident. Starting to worry, she wonders if Jeff
is
dead. When she hears nothing further either from him or authorities, she concludes he purposely
vanished to evade the IRS who wanted him arrested for years of scamming money. Laura's perfect
life quickly collapses as the IRS freezes the Frye assets. Laura's first love and Jeff's brother
Christian
returns to provide her with the emotional support she desperately needs during this crisis. Soon,
this
couple decides that they remain in love and want to start a life together, but both needs to see Jeff
one last time before moving onto something new and hopefully better. Barbara Delinsky wrote
this
appealing novel over ten years ago, but the plot remains as fresh and fascinating as when it was
first
released. The protagonists touch the hearts and souls of the audience as Ms. Delinsky shows why
she always lands on the New York Times bestseller list.
Someone To Watch Over Me
Jill Churchill
Morrow
Nov 2001, $24.00, 240 pp. ISBN: 0060199415
At one time siblings Robert and Lily were card-carrying members of the idle rich living off their
father's fortune. When the stock market crashed in 1929, the duo was left destitute as their father
committed suicide. Sadly neither has a skill to earn a decent living, upper class style that is.
However, a relative comes to the rescue by dying and leaving his vast estate to the brother and
sister
if they move into his mansion in Upstate New York and support themselves for the next ten years.
It
proves very difficult to find work in 1932, but neither sit idle. Robert finds a body on the property
and is determined to find out who he was, especially since Lily's new friend Roxanne is believed to
have killed her husband though no corpse has been found. Lily knows her friend did not commit
any
homicide and decides to prove she is right. Is amateur sleuthing acceptable under the stipulations
of
their inheritance? The Brewsters do not care because they believe they must do the right thing
regardless. Jill Churchill has written a delightful historical cozy that captures much of the
ambiance
of America's Great Depression. The bewitching Brewsters brood is adjusting to a radical lifestyle
change while trying to help a neighbor. Someone To Watch Over Me is enjoyable as the
characters
are engaging, the plot strong and vibrant, and the mystery cleverly executed.
Bitter Sugar
Carolina Garcia-Aguilera
Morrow
Nov 2001, $24.00, 336 pp. ISBN: 0386977818
Her Cuban-American father dislikes the profession of Miami-based private detective Lupe Solano
because he does not believe this is a proper profession for a good girl. Thus, when he asks Lupe
to
help his friend Ramon, she immediately agrees to show him that she is good at her trade. Ramon
wants Lupe to investigate an offer to buy the five sugar mills they once owned in Cuba before
Castro took control. His nephew Alexander wants to sell but cannot without Ramon's signature.
Ramon stubbornly refuses. Alexander asks Ramon to meet him at a dumpy hotel, but when he
arrives there he finds his nephew dead. The police believe Ramon had the motive and opportunity
so
they arrest him for second-degree murder. Lupe obtains an attorney for the accused and begins
making inquiries that will clear Ramon's name. The Lupe Solano mysteries provide readers with a
taste of how it feels for Cuban expatriates to live in America. Bitter Sugar is a great installment in
this fine series because the audience sees a different side of Lupe, who desperately wants to gain
her
father's approval to the point of risking her life. Carolina Garcia-Aguilera captures the attention of
her fans from the very first page and never lets go until the final page when new readers will want
to
obtain the previous novels so they can read more Solano adventures.
Letters From An Age Of Reason
Nora Hague
Morrow
Sep 2001, $28.00, 648 pp. ISBN: 0060184914
In 1860 New York, teenager Arabella Leeds, daughter of upper crust parents, commits a terrible
faux pas and is exiled to Europe until the furor ends. By 1862, the Civil War costs New Orleans
"high-yellow" house slave Aubrey "Bree" Paxton his position of "privilege". Rather than waiting
for
the inevitable disaster to finally hit, Bree obtains employment on a ship heading to London. Bree
and
Arabella meet in Europe and begin to fall in love with one another. However, though his skin is
white, she knows her family would consider Bree as Black and unacceptable. As Bree seeks more
about his own roots, Arabella struggles with her parents and peers intervention. Love means
nothing
in a caste system that these two star-crossed individuals live in everyday of their lives. Letters
From
An Age Of Reason is a tremendous historical fiction that will surprise readers by how good a tale
is
told by debut author Nora Hague. The story line rotates letters and other similar entries between
Bree and Arabella that for the most part provide insight into American and English society during
the American Civil War years. The duo's look at the attraction between them slows down the
overall
powerhouse theme that Victorian society cages Bree and Arabella for race and gender
respectively.
This, in turn, works so well that the plot makes this novel required reading for Civil War era
buffs.
Tears In A Bottle
Sylvia Bambola
Multnomah Books
Oct 2001, $10.99, 320 pp. ISBN: 1576738027
Her father keeps a tight leash on seventeen year old Becky Taylor so when she becomes pregnant
with Skip's child, she has no one to turn to for help. After agonizing on what to do, she decides to
obtain an abortion. However, as she lies behind a curtain, an assailant kills everyone in the clinic.
Her silence or perhaps God's intervention keeps Becky alive. However, the investigation leads to
a
bigger story besides the mass killings as aborted infants are sold for their parts. The law
enforcement
officials have quite a task to uncover the truth of both the killings and the sales starting with Dr.
Emerson. Meanwhile Becky struggles with her own demons. Sylvia Bambola provides a powerful
indictment of the abortion clinics' factory-like approach to clients that leaves no doubt where she
stands on the complex issue. However, the author fails to provide the full picture by concentrating
on post abortion syndrome, but mostly ignoring the gut wrenching pre-decision process that many
people struggle with as a personal quandary. The story line is well written, but whether one
relishes
the novel depends on which side of the issue the reader supports. Using middle class characters
only
also fails to paint the panorama of a complex societal dilemma unless Ms. Bambola recommends
the
host mother be arrested for murder as the rich have Europe, the middle class has Canada and the
Caribbean, and the teenage poor not near borders have hangers.
Come, My Little Angel
Diane Noble
Multnomah Books
Sep 2001, $12.99, 128 pp. ISBN: 1576737632
In 1912 in the Sierras, life is not only hard for everyone, but most people believe they are worse
off
now than a few years ago. Ten years old Daisy James insists she sees angels, but her two older
brothers and her younger siblings look upon her as a lunatic. Still, Daisy believes while knowing
that
all the townsfolk are sad, especially her mother Abigail, who stopped singing and laughing when
she
lost the baby last year. Daisy has a plan to bring joy and God back into the lives of the
beleaguered
locals. She wants to build a church, but no one heeds the words of a preadolescent female. With
the
patience of Job, Daisy writes a play, Come, My Little Angel, in which she persuades her peers to
participate on the journey back home. Come, My Little Angel will catch the attention of the
reader
from start to finish with its "Little Engine that Could" story line to inspire everyone at a time we
need books like this. The historical tale never slows down as readers feel the pain of the
charcaters
and the hopes of the little heroine who refuses to bend from peer, parental, and sibling pressure.
Diane Noble provides a noble experience for those readers who need a lift or who want an angel
in
their life should share the novel with their children.
Tested By Fire
Kathy Herman
Multnomah Books
Oct 2001, $11.99, 320 pp. ISBN: 1576739562
After almost three decades of marriage, Rhonda Wilson still loves her husband Jed, but is very
lonely. Every day Jed works and every night he joins his friend Mike McConnell and the other
good
ole boys at O'Brian's Bar. He always returns home drunk and goes immediately to sleep. Rhonda
prays for a miracle in which her beloved Jed rediscovers his love for her, but she does not truly
believe. An explosion on Heron Lake occurs. Jed drives over to see Mike's houseboat in flames.
The
townsfolk of Baxter are stunned as the five McConnells are presumed dead. Instead of bringing
Jed
and Rhonda closer together, he rejects her offers of comfort and buries himself deeper in self-pity
with beer. However, one of the McConnells survived the fire and Jed races against the Feds to
find
the missing person with his need to know the truth. Will Rhonda, who has turned to God for
solace,
remain waiting for her husband as he searches for life's meaning on his quest? Although Tested By
Fire is overpopulated with too many secondary characters, readers will enjoy the basic story line
because it is fascinating. The main theme centers on two people drifting apart so that even in a
time
of tragedy they cannot comfort one another. Kathy Herman provides a strong inspirational
suspense
novel that furnishes her audience with a clear message of hope if only couples will talk through
their
souls.
Take A Thief
Mercedes Lackey
Daw Books
Oct 2001, $24.95, 351 pp. ISBN: 0756400082
On Valdemar during the reign of Queen Selenay, his cold Uncle Londer Galko raises orphaned
Skif
as if the lad is a criminal. Though Skif laboriously works long hours at his uncle's Hollybush
Tavern,
his guardian sees the lad as a grudge earning his supper or dying. Required to attend school due
to
the royal edict, Skif eats breakfast there and becomes efficient at hiding food to dine on later. His
ability leads him to meet Deek, a pickpocket, and from that encounter, Bazie, an adult who cares
what happens to his charges. Skif joins Bazie's family of young thieves and becomes one of the
best
at robbing from the wealthy as he could sneak in and out of a home like a ghost can walk through
a
wall. When Skif steals a horse left unattended, the "magical" steed abducts him instead. Now his
adventures take a new spin especially when someone murders his beloved mentor and Skif must
work with the Heralds and Alberich if he is to see justice is served. For long time fans of
Mercedes
Lackey's Valdemar series, Take A Thief is quite a treat as Skif first appears in the mid 1980s
Heralds
of Valdemar trilogy. The story line is well written and fits quite nicely in the Valdemar Universe
circa 1376 AF. Skif may be young, but is a survivor who given the opportunity heroically thrives.
The support cast provides depth to the plot while insuring continuity to the main tales. Ms.
Lackey's
latest fantasy epic lacks nothing except many sub-genre fans will scramble for other books
describing
life during the reign of Queen Selenay.
Past Imperfect
Martin H Greenberg and Larry Segriff
Daw Books
Oct 2001, $6.99, 320 pp. ISBN: 0756400120
This collection of twelve wonderfully well-written tales centers on the paradox of time travel with
some tales going back into the past and other forward into the future. This reviewer's personal
preferences are those tales that focus on the impact of someone altering an acceptable historical
event (unless someone drifts back and takes away the EC comic involving sending a probe back to
the dinosaur age that I read as a child). Each entry is fun and supports the limitless possibilities of
what if that makes time paradoxes so engaging and imaginative, and time streams so impossible to
grasp. These dozen are very good and entertaining. These strong authors provide readers with
near
perfect contributions for inclusion in PAST IMPERFECT.
Every Breath You Take
Ann Rule
The Free Press
Oct 2001, $25.00, 500 pp. ISBN: 0743202961
People see a handsome and charming person, who can make anyone believe he is your best friend
willing to do anything for you. However, he is actually an abusive, masochistic transvestite, who
loathes all females. His two former wives remain scared to death of him and feel fortunate to have
survived marriage to him and remain relatively sane. Sheila knows nothing about Allen's past and
feels like the luckiest person alive when they marry. By the time they have two children, she
knows
she has married a monster who enjoys publicly humiliating her at any time. Gathering her courage,
she tries to leave him, but he has plans to extort a cruel price by using their children as his means
of
control. When she remarries and has quadruplets with her new husband, Allen goes berserk and
begins a harassment campaign that the military would be proud to adopt in Southern Iraq. Sheila
and
her husband move to another state, but Allen continues to harass her. The day comes when her
throat is cut, but justice is not served time because her killer remains free and becomes the media's
darling. Except for the fact that Ann Rule is the ruler of true crime, readers will find it difficult to
accept that Every Breath You Take is true crime and not fiction. Ms. Rule captures the essence of
evil making it available for her audience to take a deep look inside a human monster. The
investigation ands trial is exciting and as good as any legal thriller can be, leaving readers holding
their breaths to see if justice prevails.
Sherlock Holmes And The Secret Alliance
Larry Millet
Viking
Oct 2001, $4.95, 336 pp. ISBN: 0679030155
In 1899, to the excitement of many of the Twin City residents, President McKinley is coming to
Minneapolis. Apparently not every one is filled with good feelings with the pending visit from the
country's leader. Majesty Burke calls fellow saloon owner Shadwell Rafferty to sobbingly inform
him that assailants killed and strung up her barman, union activist Michael O'Donnell. The culprits
left Michael naked except for an ominous sign stating that "the Secret Alliance has spoken". The
police chief says that Michael was killed because he was "taking liberties" with a young girl. Maj
denies that her barman was not a pediophile and persuades Shad to investigate though he knows
how dangerous the Secret Alliance is with its antiunion busting. With the help from his two
visiting
friends from London, Holmes and Watson, Shad follows a meandering trail filled with danger.
The
fourth book centering on Sherlock Holmes' Twin City cases is an engaging tale that fans of the
great
detective will enjoy. Sherlock Holmes And The Secret Alliance brings Holmes' American host
more
to the forefront of the investigation than in the previous three novels, which adds an original spry
twist to the a tale loaded with copious twists and turns. Even while bringing Shad in more of a
lead
role, Larry Millet continues his ability to capture the essence of Holmes and Watson while
providing
a vivid look at America at the turn of the previous century.
Aunt Dimity: Detective
Nancy Atherton
Viking
Oct 2001, $22.95, 230 pp. ISBN: 067003021X
American expatriates Bill Willis and Lori Shepherd were staying with his parents in Boston when
someone in their English village of Finch killed "Pruneface" Hooper. When the married couple
with
different last names returns home to Finch, the news of the homicide stun both of them because
the
last murder in Finch occurred in 1872. Eleven days pass without the case being solved because
everyone seemed to have a reason to see the mean-spited gossip Pruneface dead. Deciding it is
time
to get involved, Lori turns to her sleuthing guide the spirit of "Aunt" Dimity Westwood, former
resident of Lori's cottage. Through Dimity's blue journal, the ghost and Lori communicate.
Though
the townsfolk remain reticent, Lori and Dimity accompanied by Nicholas Fox, the visiting nephew
of
the vicar begin to investigate. The seventh Aunt Dimity tale retains the freshness of the series as
the
supernatural and the mortal combine forces to uncover the identity of a killer. Nicholas gives
readers
a different view of Lori especially since Bill is in London for most of the novel. The who-done-it
is
fun to try to figure out as most of the villagers had cause to see Pruneface dead. Anyone who
enjoys
a contemporary English village mystery with a large dose of the paranormal will enjoy Aunt
Dimity:
Detective and Nancy Atherton's previous supernatural-amateur sleuth stories.
A Second Legacy
Caroline Harvey
Viking
Oct 2001, $24.95, 352 pp. ISBN: 0670030147
London swings like a pendulum in the sixties, but Alexa Langley feels more like a fish out of
water.
Unlike her successful parents who thrive in the mod climate, Alexa feels shy and unworthy.
Everyone concludes that Alexa is a classic underachiever who could do better. Even in marriage
she
fails though betrayal by her spouse is a more apt description. Alexa finally flees London with her
infant Carly for a family owned Scottish castle that has been neglected for years. Will Alexa find
the
inner strength that flows in the blood of her female ancestors or is she the skipped generation? In
1988, Carly finds an extraordinary journal that describes the adventures of her great great
grandmother in Afghanistan (see A Legacy Of Love). Unable to resist, Carly retraces the steps of
her ancestor while not knowing what she seeks or what she will find as she treks across the war-
scared landscape. A Second Legacy is actually two novellas in one book. Caroline Harvey, better
known as Joanna Trollope, (both names appear on the title page - duh) provides her audience
with
the tales of two women. The story lines are similar yet quite different. Alexa's tale is a character
study of someone struggling to find contentment and her self worth. Carly's plot centers on
finding a
place in the world too, but is more of a romantic suspense drama. Still each story engages the
reader
who feel empathy towards the heroines and shows why this writer is a highly regarded best selling
author.
The Vampire Vivienne
Karen E Taylor
Zebra Books
Sep 2001, $5.99, 302 pp. ISBN: 0786012064
Vivienne Courbet was born in Paris, but ultimately ran away from her home. In 1719, she went to
a
brothel, The where the news of her beauty, youth and innocence eventually reached the attention
of
her employers Victor and Mona. The duo was as impressed as her customers and converted the
vibrant Vivienne into one of them, a vampire. She easily changed to her new lifestyle and became
the
toast of Paris, but left her birth city during the height of the Terror of the French Revolution. She
lived quite comfortably into the twenty-first century when she became head of the powerful
vampire
council the Cadre at a critical time when the Others attack her species. Vivienne knows she and
her
kind must identity and either neutralize or destroy their enemy before she and others like her
permanently die. For all those horror and supernatural readers who have followed the Vampire
Legacy, the current tale The Vampire Vivienne provides many of the answers left open from the
previous books. The tale also features the return of popular characters to add to the feel of
completeness. Yet Karen E Taylor also refreshes her story line with a brilliant twist that entertains
and hypnotizes sub-genre fans.
In Too Deep
Janelle Taylor
Zebra Books
Sep 2001, $6.99, 384 pp. ISBN: 0821769332
Allen Holloway paid abusive Troy Russell to divorce and leave his pregnant daughter Jenny.
Fifteen
years later, Troy has returned for a new handout and is low enough to use his own son as a pawn
for
cash. Rather than turn to her father, Jenny flees to Santa Fe to start anew. Former cop Hunter
Calgary obsessively tracks Troy because he believes the thug killed his sister so Allen asks him to
keep safe his beloved daughter and grandson. Hunter vows to make sure that the snake does not
harm the two Holloways, but soon finds himself in love with Jenny. However, he knows anything
permanent is doomed because once she learns the truth as to why he is here she will flee. Still, he
risks his life to keep the duo unharmed from a malevolent individual who does not mind
committing
homicide to gain easy money. Romantic suspense readers will enjoy Janelle Taylor's latest thriller
In
Too Deep because the story line never slows down until the end. The estrangement between the
two
older generations of Holloways seems forced as Jenny refuses to turn to her father for help even
with the return of her dangerous former husband. Plus the obvious contrast between the two key
males with Troy the psychopath vs. Hunter the hero is a bit too blatant, but on the other hand, the
audience will root for Jenny's champion to triumph because he is such a nice person. Ms. Taylor
has
written an engaging damsel in distress tale that will delight her fans.
A Capital Holiday
Janet Dailey
Zebra Books
Oct 2001, $6.99, 320 pp. ISBN: 0821772244
After two years as the First Daughter, Jocelyn Wakefield cannot stand being the paragon of
behavior
that she must be while her father occupies the White House. Needing some breathing room,
Jocelyn
decides to escape the net of the Secret Service and the even worse trappings of the media circus
that
reports her every movement down to a sneeze. She plans to spend a day in town as just another
Jane
Doe American. With the help of her grandmother, non-Jocelyn escapes her White House prison
only
to crash into political columnist Grady Tucker, who could easily destroy more than just her day
off
with a few strokes of his word processor. However, he finds Jocelyn more charming in person
than
as her father's hostess. Without her retinue of protectors and media maniacs, Grady and Jocelyn
find
they are attracted to one another. However, talk about the wrong side of the tracks. Can a
nationally
syndicated political reporter and the daughter of the President find the time, privacy, and trust to
allow love to soar like a bird in the sky? A Capital Holiday is an Americanizing modern update of
the classic "Roman Holiday" as Janet Dailey entertains the audience with her DC Holiday fluffy
but
fun story line. Fans of romantic romps will relish this tale because the lead couple seems like
genuine
individuals. However, with the horrific terrorists' incidents the First Daughter's actions now seem
dangerous. Being from the Bronx, having been to the Twins, and having a beloved cousin Marion
residing within a few blocks while not knowing how she is doing, I know the fears and anguish.
My
prayers go out to everyone.
Officer Of The Court
Lelia Kelly
Kensington
Nov 2001, $6.99, 400 pp. ISBN: 0786014636
Laura Chastain left a high salaried position as a lawyer to become the Fulton County, Georgia
Assistant District Attorney. She prefers placing criminals behind bars rather than earning top
dollars
defending them even when she knew they were guilty. Her latest case involves the brutal death of
a
prominent African- American businessman, who was found stuffed inside the trunk of his car.
Petty
thief Roland Jervis happened to be driving the vehicle when he was pulled over and arrested for
murder. The DA and his second in command believe they have an easy conviction and since the
DA
is running for reelection he wants no digging that would prove otherwise. Laura agrees with the
assessment that Jervis is a killer, but soon finds the evidence fails to support that theory. Staying
with her convictions, her actions free Jervis, but force her to resign. Laura joins Jervis' team in a
wrongful arrest suit in civil court while she tries to uncover the identity of the real culprit. When it
comes to writing dynamic realistic legal dramas, few authors pack the wallop of Lelia Kelly. Her
heroine cares more about justice than personal rewards and accolades. The complex plot is filled
with twists and turns that lead the audience on a cleverly designed serpentine path that has the
reader says "wow" after finishing this tale.
Kentucky Rich
Fern Michaels
Kensington
Oct 2001, $24.00, 336 pp. ISBN: 1575667614
Over thirty years ago, teenage Nealy Coleman fled her family Virginia home because she never
felt
welcome there and with an illegitimate infant she felt less welcome. Her father treated Nealy and
her
two brothers with abuse and contempt. For the next three decades, she never set foot on Coleman
land, especially avoiding the SunStar thoroughbred farm. Nealy has become successful in
thoroughbred racing in Kentucky. Now her sire Josh is dying and Nealy is back to dance on his
grave. However, first she must fix the legal miasma Josh and her two siblings failed to avoid when
no will or estate planning occurred. Then there is the matter of dealing her way with the stud who
left her pregnant three decades ago. Finally, there is the "extended" family who comes to pay their
last respects or is that to get paid. Fern Michaels fans will enjoy her latest tale in her
Coleman-Thornton novels from the starting line to the final tape as she begins a new Triple
Crown
winner. The story line is filled with emotion as the key cast battles within themselves and among
one
another over events that mostly happened years ago. The characters show no range of feelings,
displaying one dominant trait. For instances, 200 proof nasty highlights Josh's personality even on
his deathbed while stupidity is the mindset of the two brothers who somehow know nothing about
their successful sister in the same line of business. Still readers of the best selling author's Vegas
and
Texas series will enjoy the ride.
The Night Caller
John Lutz
Kensington
Oct 2001, $6.99 400 pp. ISBN: 0786012846
Living alone in Manhattan, Ezekiah "Coop" Cooper feels lonely. He retired from NYPD due to
cancer, which is currently in remission. His wife divorced him and has become an environmental
activist. His daughter lives and works in New Jersey, but though they love one another they rarely
share anything personal. That is why Coop is happy to be seeing his child Bette in the family
bungalow in Breezy Point. When he arrives, he finds the most horrid scene. Someone murdered
his
daughter. A few days later, Coop talks to his former partner on the force, Art Billard to learn
what
the police know. Next he travels to New Jersey to talk to Bette's associates and friends.
Ultimately,
he meets mystery writer Deni Greene who believes a serial killer has murdered Bette. Coop
reluctantly accepts a partnership with the unfeeling author, who will use anyone including a
wrongfully locked up convict in Florida to attain her goals. However, neither one knows how
dangerous The Night Caller actually is, but they will soon find out. Though readers will need a
humongous leap of faith as to how Deni put together her belief in a serial killer, The Night Caller
remains a powerful thriller. The story line is loaded with action, but it is Coop who makes the tale
sing, as the audience will empathize with his plight. John Lutz has written a powerful novel that
grabs reader attention from the beginning and keeps readers wondering whether the hero or the
villain will triumph.
The Humbug
Harold Schechter
Pocket Books
Nov 2001, $25.00, 400 pp. ISBN: 0671041150
Edgar Allan Poe is unable to feed his family on the wages he makes as a journalist/editor in
Philadelphia. He relocates, with his family, to New York City where writing opportunities are
much
better. When he sees a handbill for the P.T. Barnum's American Circus, Edgar turns irate because
he
knows that at least one falsehood exists on the handbill he was given. He confronts Barnum, but
obtains nothing but blarney from the glib talker. Barnum is very impressed with Poe and visits the
writer in his home when the media blames Barnum's American circus for causing a murder to
happen. Poe who has solved murders before (see Nevermore) agrees to investigate. When the
victim's missing arm is mailed to Poe's home, he concludes he is on the correct path and if can stay
alive long enough he will solve the case. Poe is clearly the star of this book as he uses his belief in
his
superior brain power to slice and dice everyone using self-deprecation so nobody will be offended.
The Humbug is a serious historical mystery though Barnum lightens up the atmosphere with his
unique brand of showmanship. Though a nineteenth century who-done-it, mystery lovers of all
sub-genre persuasions will enjoy Harold Schecter's tale.
Separation Of Power
Vince Flynn
Pocket Books
Oct 2001, $25.00, 356 pp. ISBN: 0671047337
He had been in power for so long that he owned presidents, but now CIA Director Thomas
Stansfeld is dead and much of DC celebrates. The festive mood changes to horror when the
realization begins to surface that Stansfeld's top assistant, Dr. Irene Kennedy is his most likely
replacement. Her opposition has set in motion powerful plans to wreck any permanent
appointment
of Kennedy. However, Kennedy's biggest problem is that her star assassin Mitch Rapp wants out
as
soon as he completes his final mission. Soon Mitch learns that Iraq is closing in on nuclear
weaponry
that Saddam protects beneath a hospital cover. Mitch will lead the assault team on the facility
knowing that if he fails the Israelis will follow and a wider war will ensue. In spite of the stakes,
the
extreme elements opposed to Kennedy getting the top CIA job including links to the Halls of
Congress will do anything to make Mitch fail even if World War III occurs. The follow up to The
Third Option, Separation Of Power, is a tremendous espionage thriller that never slows down for
even a moment. The story line is action-packed and Mitch is what we need right now in
Afghanistan
even if he wants to retire. Though some of the actions of the anti-Kennedy group seem bizarre
when
weighed against the cost, many readers will look at real terrorist acts and think nothing much of
the
anti-Kennedy crowd, sad as that seems. Once again, Vince Flynn provides a strong espionage
thriller
that makes this author the prime option of choice for genre fans.
Fallen Angel
Don J. Snyder
Pocket Books
Oct 2001, $20.00, 295 pp. ISBN: 0743422317
His Maine childhood embarrassed Terry McQuinn who wanted to be just like the rich and famous
who frequented Rose Point. These feelings remain very strong even though the wealthy looked
down at working class stiffs like Terry's father, the caretaker of the place. In turn, his dad hated
the
feeling of being expendable hired help and Terry vowed to be greater than the wealthy employers
of
his father are. Hollywood proved just the avenue for Terry to attain his goal. Now Terry's father
has
died and his son reluctantly returns to his roots to sell off everything. Nostalgically Terry takes a
last
look at his dad's workshop before planning to return to California. There he sees a deathbed note:
"Open Serenity for Christmas". Memories from three decades ago when he was eight years old
and
Serenity was last opened flood Terry's mind and begin to melt the ice around his heart. Unable to
flee like he did years ago, Terry begins to perform his father's last request even as Katherine, the
daughter of the owner when Terry was a child, returns, further defrosting his heart. Fallen Angel
is
an engaging redemption novel that is an early Christmas gift for readers who enjoy an inspiring
story. Terry is a fine lead character, but his change over from "Bah! Humbug!" to compassionate
individual occurs with little angst on his part. Contrast that to Scrooge who required four ghosts
to
convert him. Those readers who relish an uplifting novel will find Terry's transformation tale from
Fallen Angel to loving human just the right pre-holiday present.
Chance Meeting
Laura Moore
Pocket Books
Oct 2001, $6.99, 423 pp. ISBN: 0671042939
In Lake Placid, New York, Ty Stannard always loved horseback riding because it was her only
escape from a harsh demanding father who was never pleased by anything she did. Her hero since
the fifth grade is the highly regarded equestrian superstar Steve Sheppard. Ty hopes to one day be
as
good as her champion, who she meets as a teen when she competes at a junior's event. Steve
gives
the enthusiastic youngster a lucky medallion, which becomes Ty's most cherished possession.
However, a nasty horse ended Ty's dream of championships. Years later, Steve is near financial
bankruptcy with his reputation shredded and his farm heading towards bankruptcy due to the
stupidity of his former partner. Ty's father stands ready to attack like the vulture he is once the
final
foreclosure occurs. Ty wants to help her hero whose gesture years ago at the Junior's remains one
of
the few bright spots in an autocratic lonely childhood. Though he wants to refuse her offer of a
partnership, Steve has no choice but to accept. However, this is no gawky teen any longer and
soon
the two new partners begin to fall in love, but her nasty father remains perched prepared to do
whatever is necessary to gain Steve's farm. Chance Meeting is an angst-laden contemporary
romance
filled with two deep lead characters. The story line is exciting as Steve and Ty fall in love in front
of
a backdrop of the sport of equestrian and the machinations of her avarice father, whose greed and
demand make Midas seem reasonable. As usual Laura Moore provides a wonderful
compassionate
novel because readers feel the hurt, mistrust, and love of her key players.
Grand Avenue
Joy Fielding
Pocket Books
Oct 2001, $25.00, 400 pp. ISBN: 0743407075
The "Grand Dames have lived on Grand Avenue in Mariemont, an upscale Cincinnati superb, for
two decades. They actually met when each on escorted their own small child to a nearby
playground
with three swings. The last one to arrive always was stuck in the sandbox and mom knew how
degrading that was. Susan, Vicki, Barbara, and Chris became close friends and stayed as pals over
the subsequent years of raising their respective child However, the idyllic life shown on tape has
gone sour for at least of the quartet. She slowly looks at the past to try to learn what went wrong.
She thought she found love with her spouse and with her three close friends, but now all she seeks
is
justice. Grand Avenue is a grand relationship drama that focuses on the lives of four women.
Readers see how each one forges a relationship with the other three, their respective husbands and
children. The secondary characters add depth to the lead cast. However, the "need" for justice
subplot actually lends an engaging twist, but that spins away from the powerful prime plot of four
women seeking an identity of their own rather than precariously living through the life of a loved
one.
The Stone Of Light
Christian Jacq
Pocket Books
Sep 2001, $16.60, 368 pp. ISBN: 0743403495
Everyone believes the slaves built the pyramids that housed the tombs of the Pharaohs. However,
those brilliant architectural structures were fashioned by the people who lived in the Place of
Truth,
an isolated village of artisans. The virtuosos living there used the magic of the Stone of Light to
transform anything into gold and to convert matter into a translucent item. Though revered by
most
that know them, they have a powerful enemy in General Mehy of Thebes. When he was younger,
Mehy tried to join the Place of Truth, but was rejected for not meeting the standard required of all
the residents. He has held a grudge ever since and now has an inside person trying to steal the
Stone
of Light for him. Mehy is clever as he works behind the scenes so no trace exists to him if
something
goes wrong. Still he does everything he can to weaken the power base of those who run the Place
of
Truth, but even with his Machiavellian ways can he prevail over one of Egypt's most scared icons?
The fourth and final novel in the Place of Truth series is as magically powerful as the previous
three
tales. The leader of this small village of people answering a noble cause is a hero setting an
example
of honor and loyalty instead of hedonism and vanity for his fellow residents. The villain is
obsessed,
but works his ruses behind a veil of safety. Christian Jacq completes his classy Ancient Egypt
quartet
with another triumph that will gratify future audiences for eras.
The Medici Dagger
Cameron West
Pocket Books
Sep 2001, $25.00, 248 pp. ISBN: 0743420357
In 1491, Leonardo da Vinci invents a new alloy. He shapes it into a blade and places it inside a
vise.
He slams a mallet on the tip only to see the hammer split apart while the dagger remains whole.
Knowing how his benefactors think, Leonardo believes that his creation would be used as a
weapon
of destruction. He hides his findings with the hope that the future will beget a world filled with
peace
that can use his alloy for the common good. Five centuries later internationally recognized da
Vinci
expert Rollo Barnett decodes the Renaissance Man's enigmatic writing about the dagger.
However,
he and his wife die in a suspicious-looking fire. Two decades later, Rollo's son Reb learns that a
billionaire arms dealer murdered his parents. He obsessively needs to complete his father's work
on
da Vinci and revenge himself on the killer though he places himself in danger from his parents'
killer.
If thriller fans suspend logic for a few hours, they will enjoy an action packed tale. The story line
requires the reader to accept a lot even from the start. For instance, da Vinci hides his new
discovery
for fear of weapon-use yet shapes it into a dagger. The arms dealer wants to make outer space
smart
bombs (don't ask how), but kills the prime source of locating the alloy. This consistent
inconsistency
is bothersome for those fans that need to believe in an "authentic" feel to the events. However,
Cameron West's debut novel provides entertainment for those readers who want a simple but wild
ride.
Friends of twenty-five year old Shanghai waitress Nikki call her "Coco" after her second greatest
idol Coco Chanel. Calling her Henry for her number one hero Henry Miller seems a bit out of
place
for the precocious young lady. Nikki falls in love with artist Tian Tian and quickly moves in with
the
disconsolate man over the objections of her old fashion parents. However, Tian Tian dives deeper
into drugs leaving him more despondent, but it is his impotency that drives Nikki crazy. Refusing
to
allow love to interfere with sex, Nikki begins having an affair with married German businessman
Mark. Quickly, Nikki finds herself straddling two worlds. One centers on values and love; the
other
focuses on lust and deception. The Chinese government burned this novel, which lead to a
western
feeding frenzy. However, the reactions remind this reviewer of the movie I Am Curious Yellow
whose message was buried under an avalanche of publicity over a sex scene that led to big sales
for
a picture this reviewer found boring. Shanghai Baby had possibilities between the culture clashes
within China and with the western intrusion including the Net, but the characters never come
across
as deep enough to pull off the debate over the varying values. Still, readers get a glimpse of a
different kind of China that makes Wei Hui's tale worth reading for those who enjoy a clash of
cultures that a reader will never drown in its plot.
Desire
Nicole Jordan
Ivy
Nov 2001, $6.99, 352 pp. ISBN: 0449004864
In 1813 on the Cornish Coast, the renowned rake, the Earl of Tremayne, Lucien Wycliffe, actually
works undercover seeking traitors smuggling gold to the French. He meets Brynn Caldwell in an
isolated area and cannot resist stealing a kiss. She thinks his immediate attraction to her is caused
by
the two-century-old gypsy curse in which men fall hard for her family's females, but die if they
love
them back Lucien learns that Brynn's family is in financial trouble and suspects her oldest brother
Gray does some smuggling to make ends meet and avoid debtor prison though he wonders if
selling
gold is part of the man's activities. Lucien, who wants an heir, decides to marry Brynn, the first
woman he has found attractive in a while. He blackmails his reluctant choice by offering to send
her
bookish sibling Theo to the university and pay off Gray's debts. However, he begins to wonder if
his
new wife and her family are the seditious supporters of Napoleon even as he knows he loves
Brynn,
curse or not. Desire is an exciting Regency romance that readers will enjoy as the evidence points
towards Brynn's betrayal of Lucien. The lead characters are a strong duo though the audience
might
wonder why Brynn hides behind the curse rather than confide in her spouse, whom she has to
realize
does not trust her. The support cast, especially two of her brothers, add depth to the era and the
lead
protagonists. Nicole Jordan has written a stunning historical romance that sub-genre fans will
want
to read.
Glare Ice
Mary Logue
Walker
Nov 2001, $23.95, 240 pp. ISBN: 0802733719
She worked as a Minneapolis police officer until all the murders and other violent crimes ripped
her
soul apart so Claire Watkins accepted a job in Fort St. Antoine. She and her daughter Meg
quickly
fall in love with the small town atmosphere and Claire enjoys her work as head of felonious
crimes.
Currently, Claire is more concerned over hosting a Thanksgiving Dinner than making any arrests
as
the mother of her boyfriend is the guest and this is their first meeting. At the post office, Claire
notices a badly battered woman, but the individual refuses to provide any information to Claire.
Next
the woman's boyfriend is murdered in a particularly grisly manner and the woman is beaten up so
badly this time she enters the hospital. In between Thanksgiving chores, Claire does her best to
uncover the identity of the killer. Glare Ice is an exciting mystery that centers on who is
Stephanie's
attacker and why does she protect the culprit fiercer than a mother protecting her children.
Overall
Claire seems so genuine because she is contented with her life yet frustrated with dinner duty and
the
lack of cooperation on the case. The who-done-it is superb as Mary Logue showcases her
storytelling abilities with this enjoyable tale.
To Perish In Penzance
Jeanne M Dams
Walker
Nov 2001, $23.95, 240 pp. ISBN: 0802733670
American Dorothy Martin lives in Belleshire, England where her husband Alan Nesbitt once
served
as Chief Constable. Dorothy and Alan love one another and enjoy their life together, but the heavy
rain is driving her crazy. They agree to escape by vacationing in Penzance, where Alan conducted
his first homicide case, one he never solved. Dorothy believes the trip will give her spouse closure
for failing to uncover who killed the beautiful victim. However, the opposite happens as they
come
upon the corpse of the daughter of the woman killed yeas ago in that same cave in Penzance.
Lexa
had come to Penzance to learn the identity of her father and that of her mother's killer. Now Allan
and Dorothy feel obligated to complete Lexa's quest. Jeanne M.Dams makes a case that there is
plenty of life left after sixty as her two sexagenarians' show more vigor and endurance than
marathon
runners do. Readers will like this crazy pair who love with a passion found in newlyweds four
decades younger than them. The mystery is well written leaving the audience to wonder not only
who the killer is but if he is the person who killed Lexa's mother. To Perish In Penzance is a
stirring
cozy.
The Night Men
Keith Snyder
Walker
Nov 2001, $23.95, 312 pp. ISBN: 0802733700
When mostly unemployed Jason Keltner was in school, he learned a valuable lesson about life.
Robert, a young friend stayed at home alone while his father was at sea and his brother joined a
commune. The neighbors painted the sign of the swastika on Robert's house and cars. Jason
moved
in staying up all night in an effort to catch the perpetrators. Years later, Jason stands guard at
night
at his friends' music store in Brooklyn. The gay couple owning the store fear a hate crime is being
perpetrated against them. When Robert learns what is buddy is doing, he flies in from California
to
help. Jason pursues a clue that leads to answers, but no satisfactory solutions. Keith Snyder
creates
an offbeat eccentric protagonist, but places the seemingly anti-hero into a serious story line that
allows him to heroically thrive. The Night Men uses the humor of Python, but makes sure that the
message is not lost in the amusement. Jason knows when it is time to put aside the hedonism to
perform dangerous but needed tasks in support of what is right. Alternating the tales of Jason at
school with Jason the musician provides two solid tales for the price of one powerful novel.
Mean Streak
R.D. Rosen
Walker
Nov 2001, $23.95, 252 pp. ISBN: 0802733662
Harvey Blisberg was once a good outfielder for the Providence Jewels. After retiring he became a
private investigator until all the evil he witnessed threatened to turn him into a madman. He quit
to
become a motivational speaker, but gave up on that too because he did not believe his own
words.
Harvey accepts a job as bodyguard to Jewel's superstar Moss Cooley, a black man closing in on
Joe
DiMaggio's once unbreakable hitting record. The excellent baseball player has (not surprisingly)
begun receiving hate mail but there is one death threat that worries team officials because they
think
that someone is very serious about harming Moss. As he watches over his client, Harvey realizes
that this is not about breaking a record by a black man, but is about Moss and someone connected
to
him. Harvey places himself in peril by following the serpentine trail from Moss to his tormentor.
Baseball fans are going to love this exciting sports mystery that stars an endearing curmudgeon as
a
hero. The action is fast-paced and the characters, especially Harvey and Moss, feel genuine. With
Mean Street, RD Rosen hits a home run to rival that of Maz.
Irregardless Of Murder
Ellen Edwards Kennedy
St. Kitts Press
Jan 2001, $14.00, 275 pp. ISBN: 0966187970
Every Thursday evening, long time high school English teacher, Miss Amelia Prentice goes to the
public library to mark her students' papers. However, this week Amelia trips in the copy room,
banging her head and lying on the floor unconscious. When she reawakens the police among
others
are there. Detective O'Brien asks her questions until he realizes that Amelia is unaware that she
tripped over the corpse of a former student Marguerite LeBow. Amelia refuses to accept some
cretin coach as a substitute. Instead she heroically goes to her classroom with her goal to pretend
no
involvement in the case. As the police keep questioning on why she was making 67 copies in the
library's copy room, Amelia concludes that she is a prime suspect. Accompanied by the nephew of
a
friend, Amelia sets out to prove her innocence and demonstrate that those who teach English can
catch the murderer that is if the culprit does not kill her first. Regardless of sub-genre preference
mystery fans will enjoy Irregardless Of Murder, an engaging amateur sleuth tale starring an
eccentric
heroine. The endearing lead character will remind readers of a dedicated teacher from their salad
days who quoted Shakespeare and Dickens and called out your name in Pig Latin. Ellen Edwards
Kennedy provides a strong who-done-it because of the cast that feels like a small town ensemble,
but in the end Miss Prentice steals the show and turns this novel into an A+ paper.
The Mystic Rose
Stephen R Lawhead
HarperCollins
Oct 2001, $25.00, 432 pp. ISBN: 0061050318
Knights Templar Commander Renaud de Bracineaux kills his enemy without a second thought of
remorse. The daughter of his latest victim, Caitriona is heartbroken that the merciless Renaud
killed
her father, a Celtic Crusader. Seeking vengeance for this unnecessary murder, Caitriona purloins a
letter from Renaud that claims to name the location of The Mystic Rose, known in many circles as
the Holy Grail. Caitriona decides to find The Mystic Rose in Spain, but Renaud gives chase. War
between the Infidel Moors and the Pope's Army of God occurs on the Iberian Peninsular adding
danger to Caitriona's quest. However, ultimately the real peril is when Renaud and the Templars
catch up to battle with Caitriona and her Celtic soldiers even as she drinks from the Holy Grail.
The
deep descriptions of this novel are a two edged sword. They give readers a wonderful look at the
past in fascinating yet extrinsic locales rarely used in literature, but also slows down the action.
The
story line is deep and for the most part moves forward rapidly though a modern day subplot
seems
bizarrely out of context. Still Caitriona is an intrepid soul whose actions make the plot succeed for
those readers who relish a rich historical novel.
The Bride's Kimono
Sujata Massey
HarperCollins
Sep 2001, $25.00, 310 pp. ISBN: 0060199334
When the invitation came from the Washington DC Museum of Asian Arts to provide a talk on
Edo
era kimonos, American expatriate Rei Shimura accepts. Not only is this a chance to speak on her
favorite topic, the Tokyo antiques-buyer will visit her parents in California. As Rei transports the
exhibit with her, she meets Hana Matsura and several other Japanese female tourists on the plane.
In
Washington not long after the pan Pacific Ocean flight lands, an invaluable uninsured kimono is
stolen from Rei and than someone murders Hana, who had Rei's passport at the time. With her
former boyfriend lawyer Hugh Glendinning turning up and the police suspecting her, Rei begins
making her own inquiries to prove her innocence at the same time she wonders why she cares so
much for both Hugh and her wealthy Japanese boyfriend Takeo Kayama. Though an engaging
insightful tale, the latest Rei mystery spends a lot of paragraphs on sidebars such as how to use a
kimono and tidbits on shoguns and samurai. For those readers who enjoy engaging divagating
asides
this enhances the who-done-it. For those who prefer a concentrated amateur sleuth tale with a
subplot on cross-cultural relationships, these cultural insights take away from the plot. Rei retains
her spunk that the audience observed in The Floating Girl. Thus how much a reader relishes
Sujata
Massey's latest amateur sleuth novel depends on how much depth the audience desires for the
subplots.
After Twilight
Amanda Ashley, Christine Feehan, & Ronda Thompson
Love Spell/Dorchester
Sep 2001, $5.99, 395 pp. ISBN: 0505524503
"Masquerade" by Amanda Ashley. For three lonely centuries, Jason has felt he has had nothing to
live for as he cares for no one. However his dark feelings change quite dramatically when he sees
Leanne perform on stage. She feels the same way, but what will happen when she learns the truth
about his nocturnal secret. "Dark Dream" by Christine Feehan. The Carpathian male Falcon wants
one last time walking the healing soil of his homeland Mountains after being away forever.
However,
to his shock, he senses his beloved mate is close by. Now Falcon has found a reason to live.
However, Sara Marten fled from him once before and though she loves Falcon she remains very
frightened of what he is capable of doing. "Midnight Serenade" by Ronda Thompson. Though he
fled as fast as his wolf body could go, Rick wants to stop to allow his pursuers to kill him and end
the curse. Wildlife expert Stephanie intercedes with the hunters ready to kill the wolf, but the
beast
bites her. She shoots the feral creature with her tranquilizer gun, but the wolf escapes. Later
Stephanie meets Rick who worries his bite might convert her into a lycanthrope just like him. In
spite of his concern, they fall in love with one another. All three supernatural romances are well
written powerhouses with strong lead characters. Sub-genre fans will enjoy this dark paranormal
collection and seek other tales from the dark by this writing threesome.
The Wildest Shore
Lisa Cach
Love Spell/Dorchester
Oct 2001, $5.99, 400 pp. ISBN: 0505524546
In 1811 during a sea voyage, Horatio Merivale takes immense pleasure flirting with the women
passengers of the Coventry and scaring them with tales of peril. Most of the females enjoy his
attention including Miss Pamela Godwyn, but her lady's maid Anne Hazlett finds the East India
Company officer boring. However, to his chagrin, Horatio's prediction proves accurate as a nasty
storm wrecks the Coventry. The survivors including Anne and Horatio struggle at sea to live, but
soon pirates capture them. Though they escape and their adventures pile up, Horatio and Anne
fall
in love. However, Anne knows that as a lady's maid she is beneath Horatio's station and once they
return to civilization her love and her memories will be all she has left to ease her heart's pain. The
Wildest Shore reads more like a nineteenth century Perils of Pauline than a Regency romance as
the
story line is loaded with action that never slows down for a page. The lead characters are a
passionate duo especially Horatio who allows his beloved the independence to grow and thrive on
her adventure. This makes for a fun read though the audience will question the safety of such a
position. Lisa Cach caters to her audience with a thriller that requires commensurate time for a
one-sitting read.
Stuck With You
Trish Jensen
Love Spell/Dorchester
Sep 2001, $5.99, 360 pp. ISBN: 0505524228
Anyone, who regularly goes to the Fulton County, Georgia courthouse will believe that attorneys
Paige Hart and Ross Bennett disrespect each other. She feels he is low down snake while he
deems
her to be shrew. Anyone, especially the two lawyers preferring not to be certified as nuts, would
ever suggest that below the surface of disdain Paige and Ross are attracted to one another.
However, a disaster strikes when a blast shakes the courthouse. Overtaxed emergency crews rush
victims to nearby Atlanta vicinity hospitals, but Paige and Ross were delivered by individuals
carrying a special vial for CDC. The duo may have been exposed to Tibetan Concupiscence Virus.
Better known as Horny Monk Disease, Ross and Paige are quarantined together in the already
overcrowded facility, but begin to find the other oh so alluring. However, both wonder if they
suffer
from external or internal chemistry as they threaten to combust. STUCK WITH YOU is a
delightful
romantic romp that refuses to apologize for its humorous look as to whether the lead couple
suffers
from TLC or TCV. The secondary characters provide even more amusement as Trish Jensen
takes a
1930s screwball romantic comedy and turns it into a modern day madcap adventure. The Atlanta
area will never look the same for those readers familiar with the steps of the Fulton County
Courthouse.
Dune: House Corrino
Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson
Bantam
Oct 2001, $27.95, 496 pp. ISBN: 0553110845
Emperor Shaddam Corrino sees his plan to become the sole ruler of the Million Worlds nearing
fruition on the planet Ix. Shaddam may be a maniac, but his plot is rather simplistic yet with a high
probability of success. To achieve his goal, he has researchers using slave labor to invent and
subsequently produce Amal, a synthetic spice to replace that found on Dune. Duke Atreides has
his
own agenda for Ix. He plans to free the planet's population so as to thwart the plan of the
Emperor
though how remains a mystery. On the other hand, Duke Harkonnen of Dune has his own concept
for Ix in which he becomes the great dictator. As the three forces come closer to a final
confrontation, a universe hangs in the balance. The third Dune novel based on the notes of the late
Frank Herbert is an entertaining tale that the diehard fans of the series will enjoy. The story line is
action packed and filled with political, social, and military confrontations. At times Dune: House
Corrino seems forced as if the authors Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson had to remind the
audience (or themselves) that this is a Dune tale. Still, the plot draws to a satisfying conclusion the
threads left from the previous two novels (see Dune: House Atreides and Dune: House
Harkonnen).
Dream Of Me/Believe In Me
Josie Litton
Bantam
Oct 2001, $5.99, 392 pp. ISBN: 0553584367
Dream Of Me. The Vikings and the Saxons are at war as they have been for centuries. Viking
leader
Wolf Hakonson believes that the "Ice Princess" Lady Cymbra is the cause of the latest conflict.
Leading his men on a raid of her castle, Wolf captures Cymbra, but quickly she melts his heart
with
her passion as love sets in between the duo. Believe In Me. As a follow-up to the beginnings of
peace started by the marriage of his sister Cymbra to the Viking, Lord Hawk weds Norsewoman
Lady Krysta. He knows he must do whatever it takes to make this marriage of state work if he is
to
build on his sibling's success and further the cause of peace. However, the Saxon and the Viking
never anticipated love to enter their relationship. Readers gain two full historical novels for the
price
of one book as Bantam showcases the debut of Josie Litton's strong new sub-genre voice. Both
books contain strong characters and resplendent details distinguishing the era when the Vikings
and
Saxons constantly fought one another. The story lines are well written, never slowing down with
only one problem. If readers are as selfish and hedonistic as this reviewer, they would have
wanted a
triplet rather than wait a whole month for book three.
Jackson's Way
Leslie LaFoy
Bantam
Oct 2001, $5.99, 391 pp. ISBN: 0553583131
In 1838 in the Republic of Texas, Billy Weathers dies from natural causes. Jackson Stennett
inherits
most of the estate because Billy felt that his friend would clean up the mess he left behind in New
York when he followed Austin into Texas. For no one else but Billy would Jackson travel east,
but
the man was like a father to him. When he reaches the big city, Jackson learns that mess is not
quite
the word he would have used, as he now knows that Billy changed his name and abandoned his
family including three children almost two decades ago. He visits Billy's daughter Lindsay
MacPhaull
who struggles to save the family business. He informs her that her father died and that he owns
everything. Lindsay tries to persuade Jackson not to sell off the business. However, someone
wants
either one or both of them dead forcing the pair to unite, but neither one expected to fall in love.
Americana romance and mystery readers will gain much pleasure from the vividly descriptive
story
line of Jackson's Way. The tale uses real events like the Panic of 38 to provide depth to a strong
historical romantic suspense that could easily be labeled romantic mystery. Jackson and Lindsay
make for quite a pair as they struggle with the varying memory of Billy, an unknown assailant and
why he or she wants them dead. Anyone of these calamities threatens their love. Leslie LaFoy has
written a powerful novel that fans of historical fiction, regardless of sub-genre will find absolutely
engaging.
Kiss Of The Highlander
Karen Marie Moning
Bantam
Sep 2001, $5.99, 416 pp. ISBN: 044023655X
In 1518 in the Scottish Highlands, Besseta Alexander warns her son Nevin that the Laird Drustin
Mackelter is a danger to him. Nevin knows that his mother is not the "sharpest blade in the
armory",
and worries more about the impact of her pagan practices on his efforts to set up a ministry in
town.
Fully believing in her prediction and promising Nevin not to kill the Laird, but unable to allow
Drustin to harm her son, Besseta arranges with Gypsies to place Drustin in an unnatural sleep till
sunlight and human blood touches him. Five centuries later, a bored American, Gwen Cassidy,
comes to Scotland in hope of some romantic adventure. She falls into a cave where she awakens
the
sleeping Laird. Though shocked by her attitude and appearance, Drustin is more stunned by the
ruins of his home. Feeling an obsession that his clan needs him in the sixteenth century, Drustin
coaxes Gwen to join him on an adventure of a lifetime that includes time travel, love, and
treachery.
Kiss Of The Highlander is an exciting time travel romance that takes readers on quite an action
packed tale. The reactions of the lead characters to the respective other person's era is precious
and
on the mark. The story line is loaded with twists and turns, cleverly handles the time paradox
issue,
and still provides a strong romance that proves once again that Karen Marie Moning in her fourth
outing has written a winning novel.
The Bone Dolls Twin
Lynn Flewelling
Bantam
Oct 2001, $6.99, 544 pp. ISBN 0553577229
The Oracle says that as long as the true-blooded female's of Queen Gherilain's line rule and defend
Skala, she will never be conquered. For generations this has come to pass as a queen rules the
empire and females serve in the army and other very important positions in the civilian sector. All
that changed when Erius takes the throne as he is determined that his son Prince Korin rules after
him. To prevent anything from going wrong, all royals of the female gender seem to mysteriously
die, save the king's precious sister. Instead, she gives birth to twins, a girl and a boy. While the
male
is killed, the female is magically transformed into a male until the time is right to reveal her
destiny.
He's called Prince Tobin and the soul of his dead brother haunts him. When Tobin's father is killed
in
battle he becomes a ward of the king and is ordered to the capital city where he meets his cousin.
Tobin adjusts to court until he suddenly takes ill and returns to his former home so that the people
who know the truth can fix the spell that is dissipating. The Bone Doll's Twin is a fascinating epic
fantasy that shows the lengths those in power will go in order to determine their successor.
Tobin's
world is similar to that of medieval Europe so readers will have a good picture of his country life
and
city adventures. This is the first book in a trilogy so some threads are left dangling, making
readers
eager for the next novel to appear so as to see what will happens next.
Getting Lucky
Marilyn Pappano
Bantam
Sep 2001, $6.50, 363 pp. ISBN: 0553582321
Perhaps it was the death of his beloved grandmother two months ago that is the impetus for wild
Ben Foster to meet his daughter in Bethlehem, New York. Thirteen years ago, Berry told Ben she
was pregnant. He did what was taught to him by his parents and left, never looking back. Over
the
years his beloved grandmother who always was there for him wanted to meet her
great-granddaughter, but now it is too late and Ben feels regret for never accommodating her.
Ben
wants to become part of Alanna Marie Dalton's life to at least give her a family heirloom, a locket,
deserve, but has no idea how to start getting friendly with a twelve year old he has never met. Ben
takes a job repairing the new home of 24/7 businesswoman Lynda Barone. Surprisingly, the
drifter
and the workaholic begin to fall in love, but neither wants anything permanent or do they? He
struggles with his fears as to how Alanna will react to her biological father entering her life for the
first time. Best selling author Marilyn Pappano returns to Bethlehem where she provides her
audience with a strong relationship drama. The story line captivates the audience as two total
opposites fall in love though both realizes they have no future together. Ben's added woes over his
preadolescent daughter adds realistic depth and is not neatly baked into a warm pie. Fans of
contemporary tales starring multi-layered individuals struggling with complicated issues will
appreciate Getting Lucky.
Watchers Of Time
Charles Todd
Bantam
Nov 2001, $24.95, 339 pp. ISBN: 0553801791
In September 1919 in Osterly, Herbert Baker is near death from congestive heart failure. Instead
of
demanding the appearance of his Vicar, Herbert asks for Father James to talk to him in private.
The
kind Father visits Herbert though they are of different religions. Not long afterward, Herbert dies.
Father James never seems quite the same after his deathbed visit. A few weeks later, an assailant
attacks Father James killing him with a large crucifix. The culprit arranges the crime scene to look
as
if Father James interrupted a robbery in progress. Bishop Cunningham asks Chief Superintendent
Bowles to dispatch a Scotland Yard detective to assure church officials that the police are running
a
proper investigation. Bowles sends Inspector Ian Rutledge, who starting with an interview with
Monsignor Holstein begins to have doubts that robbery occurred. Advised and lectured by the
deceased Corporal Hamish MacLeod, who occupies part of his mind, Ian begins to unravel a
much
greater tragedy than even the cold-blooded murder of a priest. The Rutledge historical mysteries
are
unique because the reader does not know whether Hamish is a ghost or Ian suffers from battle
fatigue syndrome. The story line of Watchers Of Time, like its precursors, bring the post World
War
I era in England (this time the Norfolk area) to vivid life. This enables the audience to taste a
bygone
period of their parents and grandparents that is quickly fading into the dust of history books. The
who-done-it is cleverly devised as expected by Charles Todd, but as usual the charcaters including
Hamish make the novel a sub-genre stand out.
Guardians Of The Lost
Margaret Weis & Tracy Hickman
Eos
Nov 2001, $26.00, 592 pp. ISBN: 0061051799
On Loerem, Gustav the knight feels the danger as he enters the magic field of a burial mound.
There
he sees the dying Dominion Lord surrounded by "guardians". The bakh-Lord has the Sovereign
Stone, a magical stone everyone wants to possess, but it was lost for a couple of centuries.
Gustav
manages to work his way past each guardian until he reaches the Dominion Lord. Gustav takes
the
magical artifact, but leaves behind a non- magical ring that contains the love he shares with his
beloved. Gustav is knocked unconscious in battle and consequently his segment of the Sovereign
Stone has resurfaced. The news leads to war among the varying races. Every person in power or
wannabees whether they are magical or royal want to gain possession of the powerful artifact or
at
least the part that Gustav found. Alliances are broken and old hatreds and bias enflame the world
with little hope for peace. Guardians Of The Lost, volume two of the Sovereign Stone trilogy, is
an
exciting epic fantasy adventure. The story line is fast paced and the charcaters fully developed
since
the readers can easily delineate the different species due to reasonable distinct traits. Fans of
role-playing games will especially relish this novel that mirrors the game it comes from, but other
readers might object to sidebars that embellish playing rather than perusing. Margaret Weis &
Tracy
Hickman have written an engaging tale that the role-playing crowd will find most
enlightening.
Flinch
Robert Ferrigno
Pantheon
Oct 2001, $24.00, 368 pp. ISBN: 0375401253
Jimmy Gage is a newspaper reporter and movie critic for Slap Magazine, a tabloid on a par with
those sold in supermarkets. Amidst his office mail, he receives a letter from the Eggman, a serial
killer who has slain six people. The Eggman brags that no law enforcement official has found a
link
between the homicides. The police conclude that Jimmy wasted their time and made up a story to
gain notoriety for himself and his paper. He leaves town under a cloud. Jimmy returns home a
year
only later to find his brother married to the woman he loves. He also finds a set of Eggman
graphic
pictures in Jonathan's beach house. By the time the police arrive, the photos are missing. Jimmy
and
Jonathan begin a rematch of their cat and mouse game that ran the former out of town once
before.
Robert Ferrigno has written another action-packed thriller that sends chills up and down the
spines
of the audience. Jimmy is an interesting protagonist who remains likeable even as he rushes into
trouble without thinking about the consequences. Flinch is the ultimate cat and mouse game in
which
a blink may prove a lifetime for the loser.
Cat And The Wizard
J. Paulette Forshey
New Concord
$16.95, 87 pp. ISBN: 1887932798
Her mother was a wood fairy and her father was an Irish sea captain. Her six older siblings were
all
male and much more human than fairy. However, little Nuala is a female whose mom died giving
birth to her just like all the legends say would happen if the child is a girl. Nuala is more fairy than
human and after a few years of loving and raising his daughter, her father realizes she must live
with
her matriarchal grandfather, the king of the fairies. He leaves her in the safekeeping of his sons
until
he returns from seeing his father-in-law. The lads do a good job, but as the days pass their
diligence
slips and a crow tricks Nuala into becoming the prisoner of the Bobins. They take her from her
home to sell her to "Queen" Amre in the Land What Can Be. Now the "Halfling" begins her
odyssey
as her owners and name constantly change. Cat And The Wizard is an exciting cozy-like fantasy
that
is a fun quick read for genre fans. The story line moves rather quickly as Nuala's adventures take
her
through different owners, loved ones, and one despicable enemy. J. Paulette Forshey provides her
audience with a cute tale that the younger set will enjoy, but us oldsters will want to ride along
with
them and a friendly (to our heroine that is) dragon too.
In My Wildest Dreams
Christina Dodd
Avon
Oct 2001, $6.99, 384 pp. ISBN: 0380819627
By 1843 all seventeen years old Celeste wanted was the love of Ellery Throckmorton, but the
handsome noble never noticed the gardener's daughter. However his older brother Garrick sends
Celeste to the highly respected Distinguished Academy of Governesses and after that to Paris.
Four
years later, Ellery is betrothed to marry Hyacinth though he prefers to remain a bachelor, but sees
Celeste and wants her. Garrick intercedes to insure that Celeste does not remain a distraction and
thwart the wedding plans he has for his younger brother. However, he soon finds himself falling in
love with the full of life Celeste, but she apparently loves his sibling. In My Wildest Dreams, this
reviewer never expected anyone to rewrite the classic Sabrina especially when the movie remake
so
paled in comparison to Hepburn-Bogart. However, the incomparable Christina Dodd provides her
audience with a pleasant Victorian era rendition of Sabrina that sub-genre fans will enjoy. The
story
line is fun when Garrick's plan backfires and he falls in love with his target. Though a subplot
involving espionage adds suspense, some readers will find it unnecessarily takes the reader away
from a lovely historical romance that shows why Ms. Dodd is so highly regarded by fans.
Her Bodyguard
Michelle Jerott
Avon
Oct 2001, $5.99, 384 pp. ISBN: 0380813173
While shoe history expert and modern designer Professor Lili Kavanaugh was at the Art Institute
of
Chicago giving a lecture, a man with a gun tried to abduct her. She manages to escape by fighting
and fainting, but a family friend hires personal security specialist Matt Hawkins as Lili's bodyguard
over both their objections. A second attempt to kidnap Lili occurs, but Matt and his team thwart
that
effort. Having no enemies, Lili wonders why her. Could the target be her latest addition to her
historical shoe collection? Still why would anyone commit a violent crime to obtain a seven
decade
old pair of shoes even if they were involved in the legendary shootings of gangster Joey Mancuso
and his squeeze Rose? Fans of romantic suspense and mystery cozies will enjoy Her Bodyguard
that
combines a 1933 gangster story with a modern day romance linking the genres through the shoes.
The noteworthy story line engages patrons of both genres as the action never eases up until the
final
scene. Michelle Jerott has written her best novel to date with two deep lead characters starring in
a
bizarre romantic thriller.
Just Imagine
Susan Elizabeth Phillips
Avon
Sep 2001, $6.99, 400 pp. ISBN: 0380808307
The Civil War is over and the country tries to heal its' wounds. However, eighteen years old
Katherine "Kit" Weston of Risen Glory Plantation was ruined in the war. The woman from
Rutherford, South Carolina has a personal battle to fight. She comes to New York mistaken for a
young boy due to her ragged clothing to kill Northern war hero Major Baron Cain, current owner
of
what is left of her family plantation. Kit obtains a job working as a stable boy for Baron, but soon
learns he is also her guardian. However, Baron soon uncovers the truth that his outspoken street
urchin is actually a lovely-determined young lady, who wants him dead even as he falls in love
with
her. Just Imagine reengineering a highly regarded novel that started your career's rise to the top.
Susan Elizabeth Phillips risks doing just that to her fabulous 1984 Reconstruction Era romance
Risen Glory and succeeds in improving the already strong novel. Ms. Phillips keeps the core
essence
of the original story line, and the hearts and souls of Kit and Baron intact, but tightens loose
passages so that readers have quite a treat that will be labeled a classic seventeen years from
now.
A Notorious Love
Sabrina Jeffries
Avon
Sep 2001, $5.99, 384 pp. ISBN: 0380818035
In 1815 London, sisters Helena and Rosalind Lavelick are total opposites when it comes to
following the Mrs. Nunley's Guide to Etiquette for Young Ladies. While Helena feels you must
have
strict adherence with no exceptions, Rosalind believes in only those passages that make sense. So
why is Helena walking the streets by herself to a man's house breaking every rule in the
guidebook?
Simple, she needs the help of an individual she loathes Daniel Brennan to help her find her eloping
sibling Juliet. Helena believes her sister's suitor is a smuggler doing all sorts of illegal and ugly
activities that leave an innocent like Juliet in danger. She chooses Daniel to help her because he
has
teenage experience as a smuggler and knows how they think. Daniel agrees to assist Helena chase
after Juliet and her suitor Captain Will Morgan, but insists they must do so as husband and wife.
As
the duo argues, they fall in love, but not just danger awaits them, mistrust leaves them vulnerable
and disconnected. A Notorious Love is a fun to read Regency romance that smoothly mixes
excitement and humor so that the audience enjoys a fine tale. Daniel opens Helena's eyes that her
bad leg is not the handicap, but her attitude towards life, especially males, is. As she did with The
Dangerous Lord, Sabrina Jeffries provides sub-genre fans with an engaging blend of merriment
and
danger in a terrific story line.
An Innocent Mistress
Rebecca Wade
Avon
Sep 2001, $5.99, 384 pp. ISBN: 0380816199
In 1878 Houston, the jury convicted Holden Stone of abetting the Lucas gang in their criminal
activities. Holden's three siblings (Jarrod, Clint, and J.T.) are all stunned as the Judge sentences
Holden to six years in the penitentiary. Jarrod vows to find the undercover Secret Service agent
known only as The Twilight Ghost who condemned an innocent man to prison. His only clue to
the
identity of Holden's accuser is the man's mistress Sophia LaRue. There are a few problems
confronting Jarrod in his efforts to obtain Sophia's cooperation. First she hates him and his family
because she believes his father stole a fortune from her family, devastating her grandmother. Since
she was eight, her quest has been vengeance against his missing father. That is why Sophia joined
the Service and works not as the mistress of the Twilight Ghost but is the secret agent. As Jarrod
stalks Sophia, they begin to fall in love, but how will he react to the truth and how will she
surmount
years of bile against the Stones. If An Innocent Mistress, the first of four tales staring the brothers
Stone, is any indication of what readers will receive, fans of western romance are in for quite a
treat.
The engaging debut novel never slows down as the action builds up on several fronts including
the
attraction between "natural" enemies. Jarrod is an obstinate strong individual while Sophia is an
incredible person gender bending the typical female roles. Act one of Rebecca Wade's new mini
series is sensational with only one problem, waiting for act two of Four Brides for Four
Brothers.
Next Stop, Paradise
Sue Civil Brown
Avon
Sep 2001, $5.99, 384 pp. ISBN: 0380811804
On Florida's Intercoastal Waterway, Paradise Beach is a quite safe town, which is in part why
Samantha Bartlett joined its police force when the call came in. On the nearby beach, the six
patrolling septuagenarians fondly known as the Dustbuster Brigade have found footprints the size
of
a T-Rex. Could a sea monster be in the nearby Gulf waters, as these supernatural hunters believe?
TV reporter Derek Diche happens to be in town visiting a relative when the word spreads that
Paradise Beach has its own Nessie. Derek, who debunks the unexplainable legends figures that he
can combine a vacation with a story especially since the townsfolk are caught up in the excitement
of
the indirect sighting. As Samantha tries to keep the calm, she and Diche soon find magic with the
love they share. Sue Civil Brown is gaining a name for romantic romps that are two doses of
humor
and two doses of love. Her latest delight, Next Stop, Paradise, is an engaging tale because of the
hilarious antics of the residents of Paradise Beach and the budding romance between Sam and
Diche.
Any reader who enjoys a funny yet romantic tale will find Ms Civil-Brown is one of the best at
delivering that type of novel and her current story proves that reading her books is a present stop
in
paradise.
Secret Vows
Mary Reed McCall
Avon
Sep 2001, $5.99, 384 pp. ISBN: 0380817853
The world seems dismal with no hope for recently widowed Catherine of Somerset. Her
depression
is not because she grieves her just buried spouse. Au contrarie, his timely death allows her to
bring
home their twin children who he fostered on other households. Instead, her diabolical brother by
marriage Eduard de Montfort causes her woes. Edward's wife hunger herself to escape his evil so
she now turns to Catherine to complete his malevolent plan. Failure means he will kill his nephew
and niece. Catherine must get close to Baron Grayson de Camville so that she can help Eduard
kill
this man he considers his enemy. To her chagrin, Catherine finds the compassionate Grayson
treats
her with respect and fondness. She begins to fall in love with the person she must kill if she is to
keep her beloved children safe. Secret Vows is entertaining thirteenth century romance that
succeeds
because of the "Lady and the Tiger" dilemma facing Catherine. The story line is fast-paced though
the abusive Eduard is too evil of a character having no redeeming qualities. Novels like this one
will
no longer keep debut author Mary Reed McCall a secret from genre fans, as readers will recall
this
fine tale for a long time to come.
Before The Dawn
Beverly Jenkins
Avon
Oct 2001, $5.99, 384 pp. ISBN: 0380813750
As he lies dying Louis Montague wants to make things right for Leah Barnett, daughter of the
woman he always loved. He persuades Leah into marrying him so she can inherit his vast estate.
Reluctantly she agrees to wed a man she considers her father while knowing she will be a widow
in
days and that their marriage will never be consummated. Louis also makes a deathbed confession.
He admits that he has sired two thirty plus year old boys that live in Colorado and that he has not
seen them in decades. He wants a shocked Leah to tell them he is sorry. Leah takes the train west
where she meets the younger Montague Ryder who feels this Jezebel took advantage of a sick old
man to steal the estate. However, the vast estate has large debts, which Monty offers to pay in
return for a few favors. Soon, Monty and Leah fall in love, but can he overcome his distrust and
hatred especially when someone else wants them dead. Readers will find this an exciting
Reconstruction Era romance, but what make a Beverly Jenkins tale a delight are the tidbits on
African-American history that blends smoothly into the plot. For instance, readers learn the color
of
Leah's skin via the conductor telling her that people like her do not belong in that part of the train.
As usual the graceful Ms. Jenkins entertains and educates her audience with a stirring ethnic
romantic tale of 1870s America.
The Outlaw And The Lady
Lorraine Heath
Avon
Oct 2001, $6.99, 384 pp. ISBN: 0380817411
In 1891 Fortune, Texas, bank robber Lee Raven has no choice, but to abduct Angela when she
apparently sees his face during a hold-up. No way was Lee going to allow the beautiful woman to
identify him to the Rangers, but he is not a killer in spite of his reputation. Neither Lee nor his
mob
has any idea what to do with Angela except take her along with them. To his shock, her so-called
clumsiness is a result of her being blind, which means that Lee never had to abduct Angela.
Feeling
he has no options, Lee takes Angela to his family ranch. She is already aware that the so-called
dangerous outlaw is actually a kind person stealing for the good of his friends. Soon the Outlaw
And
The Lady begin to fall in love, but he fears she is the one who will reveal everything he has tried
to
bury over the past five years. The story line of this western romance is fast-paced with non-stop
action and references to and appearances of characters from Lorraine Heath's Rogues of Texas
tales.
Lee is a strong lead protagonist and the support cast provides depth especially about him..
However,
the plot belongs to Angela, whom may be blind, but rejects the notion of a handicap without the
author falling into some maudlin apology for her physical condition in part due to Lee's
willingness
to "bluff" with her. This excellent novel is made even better by the strong characterization.
Some Kind Of Wonderful
Barbara Freethy
Avon
Sep 2001, $6.50, 384 pp. ISBN: 0380815532
Tired and cynical, San Francisco Herald investigative reporter Matt Winters hears the crying of a
baby in the hallway of his apartment. Matt goes to investigate and finds an infant on the floor. His
new neighbor Caitlyn Deveraux, owner of a bridal shop, asks what is going on and who is he
behind
the safety of her door. After persuading her he is her neighbor, they take care of the infant's needs.
They soon find a note that asks Matt to watch his nephew as apparently his long lost sister Sarah,
separated from him by the foster parent system, dumped little Emily on him. Worried that Sarah
seems in trouble and deeply needing to give his sibling a hug for both their sakes, Matt decides to
use his journalist skills and find Emily. He enlists the help of a reluctant Caitlyn. As they change
dirty
diapers while desperately seeking Sarah, Matt and Caitlyn fall in love, feelings that neither
treasure
at this moment. Barbara Freethy provides readers with an enticing relationship drama with
touches
of humor that eases some of the tension of an emotion-laden story line. The warm yet at times
melancholy plot contains a fine key cast to include the lead couple, his sister, and his niece while
the
strong support players such as Jonathan and the mysterious woman with the watering can add
much
oomph to the novel. Though Caitlyn's assistance seems out of character especially with her own
past
and wedding gown deadlines, Ms. Freethy paints a sensitive tale of some of the different kinds of
wonderful that is love.
The Pillars Of The World
Anne Bishop
Roc
Oct 2001, $6.99, 432 pp. ISBN: 0451458508
The Veil that separates by a road the land of Tir Alainn from the human plane is vanishing in spots
and none of the Fae knows why. When the road finally vanishes, the Fae clan lands near it
disappear
too because they are anchored to the place. It is imperative to not only learn why this is happening
but also find a way to stop it before all of Tir Alainn disappears. Ari the witch lives among the
humans, but her lover is Lucian the Lightbringer. He gives her jewels when she craves his love.
Lucien, like the rest of the Fae, believes mortals are beneath them and would never consider a
permanent relationship with an inferior being. There is someone else who will do anything to keep
Ari safe especially since the witch hunters are coming for her. It is imperative that Ari live since
she
is connected to Tir Alainn though she knows it not. The Pillars Of The World is a stand-alone
fantasy novel that reads like a beautiful ballad involving two humans who believe love is the
ultimate
magical force in the universe. Anne Bishop is very descriptive with a visual narrative that provides
the reader a panoramic view of Tir Alainn that only a real visitor could have written based on first
hand observation. Fans of romance and fantasy will delight in this engaging tale.
Threshold
Caitlin R. Kiernan
Roc
Nov 2001, $14.00, 272 pp. ISBN: 0451458583
Chance and Deke were a couple until they and their friend Elise were so stoned they ventured to
the
waterworks tunnel for a grand old time. However, the fun and their relationship ended when Elise
dies. Deke thinks he knows what happened to Elise, but Chance believes what she saw, two very
different versions. Chance continues with her studies while Deke drinks heavily and begins to date
Sadie. A blind albino Dancy enters all their lives. She has dreamed of Chance and the waterworks
tunnel for months. She claims monsters exist and that she has killed many of them. Dancy wants
to
enter the waterworks tunnel, knowing it is a nexus for the ancient evil gods to use as a
resting-place.
Deke, Sadie, and Chance refuse to believe Dancy, who enters the tunnel by herself and then
vanishes. Whatever lives inside the tunnel is after the three compatriots. Threshold is an
atmospheric
horror novel in which the level of terror slowly rises to a boiling point leaving many in the
audience
thoroughly frightened. Caitlin R. Kiernan rivals Barker with the fear factor though her style is
more
cerebral. Genre fans that cross the Threshold will want to visit the rest of the shining Kiernan
library.
Angel Of Destruction
Susan R Matthews
Roc
Oct 2001, $6.99, 352 pp. ISBN 0451458494
The Langsarik fleet was powerful, trustworthy, and cemented in their loyalty to one another,
making
it very difficult for the Judiciary to hunt them down. The Langsarik were pirates whose own home
planet refused to recognize them so eventually their leader, Walton Agnes negotiated with Garol
Vogel to seek decent terms of surrender. The five thousands members of the Langsarik fleet were
put on probation and forced to live on land in Port Charid, a space port dominated by the
Dolgrukij
Combine. After a certain amount of years they would be allowed into space once again as law
abiding citizens of the Judiciary. However there is an element on Port Charid who hate the
Langsarik and is willing to stage bloody raids on other ports to get the Langsark's probation
revoked. It is up to Vogel, who has put together a last ditch desperate plan, to see that justice is
carried out. Angel Of Destruction is space opera of the first caliber. The tale is fast paced, with
plenty of action and adventure and the various sub-plots add depth to a very complex story line.
The
characters are three- dimensional so that the readers can truly understand them and their
motivations
even if they don't approve all their actions. Susan R. Matthews is a fine storyteller who is not
afraid
to meet social issues heads on.
Shockball
SL Viehl
Roc
Nov 2001, $6.99, 416 pp. ISBN: 0451458559
As they travel through space, Dr. Cherijo Grey Veil and her spouse, Perpetua ship Captain
Duncan
Reever are pleased over her pregnancy. However, her joy turns to sadness when she learns her
cloned body's immunity system is killing the baby. Before she informs her husband she has a
miscarriage. Cherijo knows she can never birth a child with anyone except perhaps her demented
creator Joseph Grey Veil. While Cherijo recovers, a meteor shower disables the Perptua beyond
repair. Transferring to their other ship Truman may mean that Cherijo's creator who gave her that
spacecraft may be able to track them via some undetected device. Soon the duo is forced to go
underground to live among half-breeds. Duncan has no choice but to participate in the local
version
of Shockball even as Cherijo now knows you can hide, but at some time you must fight especially
when the cause is personal. Shockball, the fourth Stardoc tale, is an exhilarating science fiction
space
adventure. The zestful story line stays at warp speed even when introducing new readers to the
lead
characters. Cherijo is as fresh as ever as she undergoes new heartaches while her spouse has his
own
problems. Fans of futuristic outer space novels will want to take off with this tale and the three
previous Stardoc books as all four stories take the audience where they rarely have been
before.
All About Passion
Stephanie Laurens
Avon
Sep 2001, $6.99, 432 pp. ISBN: 0380812029
In 1820 London, thirty-five years old Gyles Rawlings, the Earl of Chillingworth, decides it is time
to
marry. Unlike the Bar Cynster brood he considers close friends, but who have married for love, he
plans to wed a bride who will add property to his estate. With that in mind, he has his
businessman
investigate prospective brides. Based on the report, Gyles chooses Lady Francesca Rawlings as
his
future spouse for a piece of property she owns that he wants to gain the deed. The marriage is
arranged as a business deal, but at the altar, Gyles fails to look at his bride until the vows are
exchanged. When he lifts her veil, he finds not the docile Francesca he expected, but her wild
cousin
of the same name. Angry and feeling duped, Gyles wants to reject his wife, but cannot resist her
siren's call and soon he learns what the Bar Cynster males now know that it is All About Passion
for
one special person. Though this tale's theme of a doubting rake falling in love is the same as
several
of her previous novels, Stephanie Laurens imbues freshness to her story line. The romance
between
the lead couple is ardent and having the "courtship" occur after their vows adds vigor to the mix,
especially since Gyles has quite a self made mountain to surmount. Regency romance readers will
enjoy this story and relish the upcoming books starring the distaff twin cousins seeking a man on a
par with any Cynster male.
Tempt Me Twice
Barbara Dawson Smith
St. Martin's Press
Sep 2001, $6.99, 352 pp. ISBN: 0312979495
In 1808 near Oxford, Lord Gabriel Kenyon and Professor Henry Talisford finish studying the map
of
Africa so the tired noble goes to bed. Lying in his bed is Henry's sixteen-year-old daughter Kate
who
claims she loves Gabe. He tells her she must leave his room immediately, but she refuses. He
bluntly
tells her that neither he nor her father has time for her as they are going on an expedition in search
of
a fabled lost city in Abyssinia. A distraught Kate withdraws from his room due to Gabe's most
noble
but heart- wrenching act. Four years later, thugs murder Henry stealing a golden statue. Gabe
becomes the guardian of Kate and her sister, but the former hates him and now blames him for her
father's death. Still, Kate needs Gabe's help to avenge her father's murder and regain the stolen
statue. As the peril increases, that spark from four years ago ignites into a deep love, but will Kate
trust her heart or the scars from her last encounter with Gabe? With Barbara Dawson Smith's
deserved reputation for strong novels, Regency romantic suspense fans will not need a second
temptation to read her latest tale, Tempt Me Twice. The story line is exciting, loaded with
intrigue,
and never slows down for a breather as the plot spins to a fabulous climax. The lead protagonists
are
a delightful pair and the support cast includes the return of characters from previous books as well
as a cunning murderous villain. Ms. Smith goes to the best seller lists as usual.
Harriet Klausner
Reviewer
Kaveny's Bookshelf
The Phenomenology of the Fantastic
A bibliographic essay in tribute to Kurt Vonnegut Junior 1922- to the present
Part One Kurt Vonnegut as a writer for slick magazines, and experimental novelist:
Preface
This essay is a work in process, which grows out of my participation in The British Foundation
Celebration of British Science Fiction Conference where I was a presenter. The Conference was
held
at the Gladstone Hotel in association with the University Liverpool over the last weekend of June
2001. To put it simply many of the papers I attended seemed far removed from science fiction, or
fantasy literature. Because, so many layers of interpretive framework were inserted between the
topic of the conference, that many of the papers seemed allegorical. Further the theme of the
conference was almost an Oxymoron in that it spoke of a Renaissance of British Science Fiction in
the late 20th and early 21st Century. This made me wonder if before the Renaissance t British
Science Fiction Was Medieval in focus. I also noted among at least some of the younger writes a
distinct uneasiness that they might be permanently consigned to the Ghetto of Science
Fiction.
****
This led me to turn to phenomenology as a means of approaching the fantastic, and most
particularly
Kurt Vonnegut. A phenomenological approach allows you to strip away many of the filters which
have been placed between you and the object of you study so that you might interact with your
senses. For example (in my own career as a critic) I am an authority on the relationship between
the
Film Blade Runner, and its relationship to the novel by Philip K. Dick Do Androids Dream of
Electric sheep I wrote my Book Chapter for Patterns in The Fantastic II in 1985, mostly from
memory since VCRs were much less readily available. Than they are today.
However, I stand by what I wrote. At the Liverpool Conference I told another critic that his
watching the Video tape of the directors cut of the film Blade Runner over 250 times only meant
that he was making his own film in his head. I remember that things got very chilly at the
conference
after that. But now moving ahead almost four months to the present I want to talk about last
weekend and the events which finally triggered this essay.
****
Introduction
Oct 27th my wife and Dr. Janice Bogstad and myself held an open house in honor of our first time
purchase of a 2200 square foot Victorian Home in Georgian revival style in Eau Claire Wisconsin.
The house was built in 1876; the year that Custer met his end at The Little bighorn. The house
which my wife and have christened Toad Hall takes it name from _The Wind in the Willows _by
Kenneth Grahame, Ernest H. Shepard Paperback - 259 pages Reprint edition (May 1989) Simon
&
Schuster (Juv); ISBN: 068971310X ; Price 4.95. Which was to me perhaps the most beautiful and
touching, even spiritual children's book ever written, including even the Hobbit by J.R.R
Tolkien.
Here I would like to note that since this is a bibliographic essay in which I am trying to encourage
my readers to buy and read that I mention. Therefore nearly every edition of each Book I mention
is
in print and readily available on Amazon, and an other of other fine Internet Booksellers. I am
also a
small Internet bookseller, but I have no grudges against Amazon, as a matter of fact you can find
my
reviews on them for another tiles.
(But, back to our open house.) My wife Dr. Janice Bogstad and I both agree with world famous
Tolkien scholar Tom Shippey who said "A house is simply a machine to keep your books dry.
Well
we have around 11,000 books in our house. So when somebody asked whom my favorite author
was I hesitated for a second and said it has to be Kurt Vonnegut.
***************
I have been reading and writing commentary on Kurt Vonnegut for over 30 years and I am
convinced that he is a literary master because he engages the reader with greater economy than
any
writer I have experienced. He is a trickster who has survived as an artist in the 20th Century,
which
is in Vonnegut's own words Is ("About likely as surviving a WWI human wave attack on either
side").
So what was it that Vonnegut had to Survive. The answer to this question has two parts. First
there
was the necessity of his very human survival since, in late February 1945 as a twenty-two years
old
American prisoner of war he survived the Allied Airforce firebombing of the city of Dresden. In a
single night of horror and firestorms around 120,000 noncombatants Germans, or about twenty
times as many as the Americans who were murdered in the destruction of the World Trade center
were killed.
Vonnegut survived because he and four other American Prisoners of War were imprisoned in the
deepest meat locker of a German Slaughter House. Vonnegut's wartime experience appears in
many
of his later works which I will touch in the part two of this essay next month. But for now I only
wish to deal with the experience he had which was common to twelve million other American
Service Personnel who where mustered out in 1945 after V.E. Day May 8th 1945, and V.J. Sept
3
1945.
Vonnegut was faced with the same lot as my three, and my wife's seven uncles all of who survived
World War Two. (I am back to numbering my Wars just to keep them straight.) Kurt Vonnegut's
immediate post war life was not a roaring success. He a stint as a failed graduate student,
Newspaperman, and publicity man for General Electric ending around 1950, about the same time
as
Ronald Reagan. However Vonnegut found away out of corporate America. He did so by drawing
on
his earlier news paper work both high school college, and professional, Kurt Vonnegut found that
he
could write short stores for slick magazines like Look, Saturday Evening Post, Cosmopolitan and
a
number of others which paid him more for a story than he could make in months as either a
newspaper man, or a publicity man for G. E. So for the next decade or so Kurt Vonnegut became
kind of Literary Norman Rockwell. Here I recommend two collections, which between them
contain
all of his short stories that were ever published. The first is rather familiar so I will not annotate it.
The second collection I will.
Welcome to the Monkey House by Kurt, Jr. Vonnegut Paperback - 331 pages (October 1998)
Delta; ISBN: 0385333501. This is the most familiar of his collections and has been in print for
twenty-five years. The stories sort of sweet and perhaps a bit nostalgic for an America that existed
in
soldiers dreams on rainy nights as they tried to sleep in German Prisoner of War Camps. It also
contains his first published story The Barn House Effect, which fifty years later still stands up as
well
as the day it was written.
Bagombo Snuff Box : Uncollected Short Fiction by Kurt, Jr. Vonnegut. Paperback - 357 pages
Reissue edition (August 8, 2000) List price 13.95.Berkley Pub Group; ISBN: 0425174468 price
13.95.The second Collection of short stories was only recently collected and beneath what
appears
to be almost a sugar coating their are beautiful stories which will bring tears. Yet the best part of
this
collection is the preface by Literary scholar Peter Reed who has devoted much of his career to
Vonnegut's work and an introduction by Vonnegut himself in which say more about himself than
he
has said in any Interview he ever gave. Much academic scholarship is just Sparrow Fart English
Professors Peeping in the wind but this preface does much to contextualize Vonnegut and his
position in what was The American Century. The introduction (by Kurt Vonnegut is not only
funny
and Vonnegut at his best, but it almost definitively defines the cultural function of the American
Short Story in the Mid 20th Century.
What follows is the table of contents and a listing of stories, some of which have not seen the light
of day for nearly a half Century. I will comment on a few of them. Preface Peter Reed
Introduction
(By Kurt Vonnegut, and alone is worth the price of the book.)
****************
Thanasphere.__ This is a great somewhat Horrific SF story which captures some of the madness
of
the cold war, and in way sets the limits of popular scientific understanding in the early fifties.
*****************
Mnemonics__A fun read and a cute romantic twist. I wish they might have published the
illustrations, which went with this story.
***************
Any Reasonable Offer__A cute little story about a real estate salesman who wises up just in time.
It
is a fun read because we see how much has changed and how much has not. It is funny to think
about 20,000 as being a lot to pay for a house at a time when we just paid $92,500 for house
which
would have cost 500,000 most places in the USA
******************
The Package __ The package is a highly moral tales which shows that Vonnegut has the ability to
morally snap the readers head back if he wishes to, but held back just a bit for the sake of his
editor.
This story belongs in the best of the 20th Century
Collection if one is ever brought out.
******************
The No-Talent Kid__ This is just a wonderful tale about obsession negotiation with a resolution,
which made me laugh out loud. Sometimes Vonnegut writes a beautiful moral tale but in this one
the
beauty is in the details of day to day life. Read it to find the answer to the question."Would you be
interested in a the Camel"
***************
Poor Little Rich Town__ A Comedy of day to day manners from the 50's. It sort makes me think
about what us guys used to say in High School about sex(Even if we never had any). When its
bad
its Good. When it's good it's great
***************
Souvenir.__ Here is a story which could have been written by Googol. It is profound in its simple
characterization, and yet it jumps to the global and historical in a blink of an eye. However some
of
you fools won't get it because you have chosen to repeat rather than study history, which means
we
will be continuing to number World Wars.
***********
The Cruise of the Jolly Roger__I was going to say that there seems to be as pattern of every other
story in this collection being great. But in this story Vonnegut starts to wrestle with the horror of
and the necessity of putting his wartime experience into words. This story is a first step, and an
important one. For those of you who have seen war, or who have known those who have; you
will
know that those who say the least have usually seen the most. Just to reflect into the future a
decade
or it is interesting to note that it was Vonnegut's ability to find a language of Horror though irony
and Humor which saved his career as a novelist. When Slaughter House Five was published in
1967.
************
Custom-Made Bride__Fifties Comedy of Manner's involving a stockbroker giving some advice
which is ignore. This one almost belongs in a men's magazine. Again Vonnegut's wit seems to be
able to save anything.
**************
Ambitious Sophomore___ I can't comment on all of these.
**************
Bagombo Snuff Box ___ This is a story set in American ten years after the end of World War
Two.
It about divorce small deceit, and a little boy who makes his parents feel much better about their
lives as he sees through "The Emperor's new clothes, and finds that the Emperor is not only naked
but full of bullshit
*****************.
The Powder-Blue Dragon___ Hemingway would turn over in his grave wishing he had written
this
story. Oscar Wilde would have understood it perfectly, and any sixteen-year-old who would love
to
have a hot car would read this with relish. The ending just seems so inevitable after you read it
that
you wonder why you never expected it.
***********
A Present for Big Saint Nick__I wish that the would have dramatized this story during the Golden
Age of Television. Rod Stieger would have been wonderful as the Mobster who has the power of
life and death over everyone he invites to his Christmas party.
*************
Unpaid Consultant_ A cute little story about marital adjustment in a world quite different from
today.
*********************
Der Arme Dolmetscher.___World war Two ended 56 years ago but this story which dramatizes
the
German break through at the Battle of the Bulge in Dec 1944, brings it back to life with an ironic
humor that stands the tests of time. It tells you more in a few pages than you could get in a month
of
watching the History Channel. It also contains only slightly veiled the Facts of Vonnegut's capture
as
a prisoner of war. You ask yourself how can that be funny.
******************
The Boy Who Hated Girls___ Even when I don't comment I hope the reader will for there own
opinion of the story and at least know where to find it.
******************
This Son of Mine____ this is sort a prelude to a number of themes Vonnegut presents in his first
Novel Player Piano
*****************
A Night for Love____ One of Vonnegut's little domestic stories not every story he wrote was
great.
**************
Find Me a Dream___ This is a clever romance which takes place in all place at a country club that
the social center for the executives of a pipe factory. Well in this one Vonnegut shows he knows a
lot more love and what women want than he lets on in most of his stories. This one has a really
neat
set of place.
***************
Runaways ___At first I though Vonnegut was just going to do another rip off of Romeo and
Juliet,
but he goes one better than that, and shows that at least some of the time he must have been
listening to his kids.
***************
2BR02B ____ This is one of Vonnegut's darkest and most fantastic stories, especially for the time
it
was written it is surprising it appeared in a mainstream magazine.
**********
Lovers Anonymous__Kurt Vonnegut states on a number of occasions that perhaps the best thing
that came out of Midwest America before the Second World War Was Alcoholics Anonymous,
perhaps the best thing ever. Well at least it is clear that Kurt Vonnegut has no scared cows in this
story.
*********
Hal Irwin's Magic Lamp____ In way they saved the best story for the last. Some have suggested
in
the West and most certainly America the crisis of modernity has gathered around our failed
attempts
to find material solutions to spiritual problems. The last couple of lines of this story bring things
together in way that James Joyce, or William Faulkner would have admired, and this is a sort
funny
story.
************
Coda to My Career as a Writer for Periodicals___ In this original little piece Kurt Vonnegut
reflections on a number of issues among then the death of the profession of writing fiction for
periodicals. And Gives us a little example of how one might write for love rather than money. He
also draws our attention to the fact that in his heyday as a fiction writer for periodicals in the
fifties
and early sixties there were only Two University creative programs in the country. Now there are
close to a hundred, which he thinks is a good thing.
I realize that there appears to be little of the fantastic in this part of Kurt Vonnegut's Career yet it
was just his ability to recognize The Phenomenology of the Fantastic in the life of 20th Century
which may well have made him the American Writer of The Century and perhaps yet in my
lifetime a
candidate for the Nobel Prize for literature. During the whole time Kurt Vonnegut was writing
short
stories for a living he was also writing Science Fiction Novels for which he was getting paid less
than a single short stories.
***********
Most of what I will say about the will have to wait till part two of this Essay. But I must point out
that Utopia Fourteen as it was original published in 1951(later to become Paperback - 326 pages
(October 1998) Delta; ISBN: 0385333498 .price 12.95
This Vonnegut's's first novel says more about late 20th Century America the George Orwell's
1984.Because Vonnegut the trickster pulls you into a burlesque show of man and machine. Yet
the
intelligent reader find upon completion that they have finished a cautionary horror story about a
future which came online as we blinked our eyes.
*********************
The Sirens of Titan by Kurt, Jr. Vonnegut Paperback - 326 pages (October 1998)
Delta; ISBN: 0385333498 ; price $12.95 (First Published in 1958 as a paperback original is a
shaggy
dog story of which is larger than time and space. Which challenges our ideas about linearity long
before fractals and Chaos theory became a buzz word which madness it a very good novel, what
makes it a great novel is that it challenges our sense of purposes in a way that certainly wounds
humanities Hubris. By the way I won't tell you the punch line to the shaggy dog story.
***********************************************
Time and space constraints force me to limit myself to only the two of Kurt Vonnegut's Novels
which Appeared Player Piano and Sirens of Titan which appeared in the 50's just at the time when
Television was killing the slick magazine short story market yet it is these two Novels which many
have almost blown off in which Vonnegut brings us hard up against the interface between Human
Culture and technology.
Philip Kaveny
Reviewer
Jennifer's Bookshelf
Get Out Of My Mind
Tony Ruggiero
RFI West
ISBN 1-58697-313-4 , Price: $4.95 Diskette, , http://rfiwest.com/
Fantastic writing! Mr. Ruggiero has written realistic characters that make your mouth drop. Greg
Carlson and Sarah Ferguson are your everyday average people until one day when they are
forcibly
shot from Earth and basically stranded on an alien organization. These aliens aren't your average
telltale aliens, they are heavy into politics, and they run the United Council of Developing Worlds.
Unexpectedly, Greg and Sarah quickly become game pieces in the alien's plan to not only take
over
Earth, but to kill all Earthlings. Copolla is the leader of the aliens and he is animate about having
this
happen as soon as possible. Greg and Sarah can't understand why they were chosen of all people
to
help the aliens with their malicious scheme. The plot thickens with each page. As the aliens use
their
telepathic capabilities to get what they want, they cleverly use the United States political system
to
get quick results. I found Mr. Ruggiero's book Get Out Of My Mind to be well-written,
fascinating,
creative, and gripping. I loved it. I'm positive any lover of science fiction will be crazy about this
book.
Two Thousand Eighty Four
Moses Cramden
Booklocker, Mightywords, PC-Books, Authorlink, and 1st Books Library
http://www.beam.to/2084, 4 1/2 Stars!, Excellent!
If you are a science fiction buff--you'll love Two Thousand Eighty Four by Moses Cramden. What
if
you like futuristic novels, sociological novels, comedies, or political novels? Then you will
definitely
love this book...it is jam packed with all of the above and more! The author Moses Cramden is a
person who likes to stick to himself--a private person--but he has had very public and interesting
professions such as: a manufacturing supervisor, songwriter, systems programmer, house painter,
pool hustler, video game producer, bartender, restaurant owner, farmer, pro bowler, record
company owner, poet, athlete and as he says, 'a pretty average guy.' He incredibly bright with his
BA
in Social Studies, his MA in Economics and his PhD in variety, and he hopes to soon add a new
profession to this long list of jobs...a classic novelist. His science fiction, dark comedy, politically
incorrect, sociological novel set in the distant future is one of the most incredible books, set in this
(these) genre(s), that I've read in a long time. The area under discussion in the book Two
Thousand
Eighty Four is how the ever-increasing failure of confidentiality in the year 2000 will bring on an
even greater defeat of freedom and solitude in the future. Mr. Cramden speaks of the media's
responsibilities to society, which many of us rarely think about, if at all, and its unsuccessfulness in
reaching many individuals. The protagonist, T. I. Victor, summarizes the past 80 to 90 years in his
mind and in his teachings to a teenaged student. Together they live what we now consider
impossible. On their adventures and yours as you read, meet people who talk to their houses and
their houses talk back to them! Enter a life where buildings as tall as a mile high are commonplace
and body organ cloning and multi-purpose gene pills are old news. Cancer is a thing of the past
and
living to 105 years of age is the average lifespan. Never witness an automobile accident again on
electronic highways and read seven different languages includinga new one the author invented
for
the novel. The only downfall to living in such a remarkable world is that your everyday life rituals
are monitored daily 24/7 from cameras set up everywhere you look. The cameras have been
labeled
as the Big Eye by the central character, T. I. Victor, which describes the dreaded and loathed rival
to
society. Did you ever think that individualism could b
