Book Reviews
|
HOPE & GLORY
by Kim Murphy Murphy's book tells a gripping tale of two sisters, Alice and Amanda, who love a pair of men fighting each other on the battlefield. Through hardship and necessity, they blur the line between friend and foe to help one another, hoping to reunite their family once this bloody war is over. Married to Sam Prescott, a Union officer, Amanda has pledged her love and loyalty to the man, not the cause, as her home and the world around her are torn apart. Alice is determined to help her family by smuggling precious medicine, even if it risks her own life. Her stubborn streak is matched only by that of her husband, Confederate Officer Will Jackson, who harbors a dark past he must overcome. In this sequel to Promise and Honor, Murphy creates a remarkable balance between the ravages of war and hate and the hope and rebirth created by love in extraordinary times. (Jan., 272 pp., $14.95) Reviewed By: Meredith J. Leo Publisher: Coachlight Press Published: January 2004 |
WILDEST DREAMS will get your pulse racing and have you squirming in your seat. Rebecca wants the scoop on an "ungettable" story about Sebastian's hotels. She strikes a deal with the devil to pose as his wife in Maynard's "Suite Secrets," which is a spicy, sweet success.
Camelot is a top-notch secretary, but she never would have lobbied so hard for the job if she had known the effect Jonah's voice would have on her libido. Company policy prohibits law partners from dating employees, but some rules are meant to be broken. Leigh pens a rousing, sensuous read in "Voices Carry." Rachel lives a dual life: Her friends and family thinks she writes inspirational novels, but her pseudonym is far more wicked. Fiction becomes reality when she meets her agent, Jake Nichols, for the first time and, in whirlwind fashion, her innermost fantasies are realized. McLane's "Cabin Fever" is pleasure-packed and very fun. (Dec. 2003, 288 pp., $14.00) Reviewed By: Meredith J. Leo Publisher: Brava Published: December 2003 |
BAD BOYS TO GO flirts with your emotions, captures your heart and leaves you wanting more…
Anabel Truman knew it was wrong to keep her roommate's secret, but after her death she turns to the one man who would make everything all right. With one phone call, bachelor Gil Watson learns he's a daddy. He's not prepared to raise a daughter, but perhaps a marriage of convenience to sexy and willing Anabel could solve all their problems. Foster's "Bringing Up Baby" takes a warm look at love and family and turns on the heat. Adrian Wilde has three good reasons why he won't be a pinup boy in Chayse Douglas' calendar, but when she takes up his challenge for a weekend photo shoot, each finds a lover, a friend and a healing balm for their scars. Denison takes you on a wild ride in "The Wilde One." P.I. Gretchen Wiest was hired to catch Adam Stone cheating on his wife. Trouble is, he's not married, but he does have crucial information someone wants to bury. Now Gretchen and Adam are running for their lives, with the help of a busload of spirited senior citizens! Warren pens a sassy and fun romance in "Going After Adam." (Nov., 304 pp., $14.00) Reviewed By: Meredith J. Leo Publisher: Brava Published: November 2003 |
FEARLESS HEARTS
by Linda Lea Castle When Trace was shot by a wild bullet, not even meant for him, and woke up blind, this strong, proud man was beyond himself with self-pity and angry enough to spit nails. His family couldn't deal with him as he slipped further away, shunning their help, and mistaking it for pity. It didn't help matters when the woman he proposed to fled like the bats of hell were after her. Who would want half a man? Bellami James concealed her face from the world, not to protect herself so much, but rather to make the people around her comfortable. After her accident, her dreams of ever being wanted by a man were gone. Who could want an ugly scarred woman? Prompted to feel useful, Bellami worked with the blind. It was there that she didn't have to wear her veil. It was there that she could be herself. When Doc offered her a position in the New Mexico Territory to help out a friend's son who was blinded in an accident, she decided it was time to step away from her coddling family and do it. With visions of a greatful little boy in mind, she packed her bags and headed west. Trace O'Bannion had just about given up on life. He stopped shaving and bathing. His hair was growing long and he stayed in the same clothes. When Bellami was dropped off at his house, the little boy that she expected turned out to be a full-grown, unkempt mad man! She was prepared to leave that minute, but she found herself stranded. Through series of misunderstandings and self-doubt, they almost lost what was most precious to them, but with the help of scheming family and friends, Bellami and Trace realized that they needed each other, and their love blossomed. Ms. Castle's debut release is witty and funny, and she brings out the importance of family and friends. If you can find this book, I highly recommend it! Fearless Hearts is a wonderful introduction into Linda Castle's world. |
|
|
THE RETURN OF CHASE CORDELL
by Linda Lea Castle Linda Castle had me guessing from the start! I truly fell in love with the characters, and prayed for a happy ending. The tension, frustration, but obvious love between Chase and Linese warmed me. The plot worried me and the climax had me at the edge of my seat! Linda Castle does not disappoint! |
by Linda Lea Castle
I felt real fear for Abbie at the prospect of losing the only child she has ever known. Would Willem walk away from his son after never knowing him and finally discovering him? Could Abbie love the boy enough to return him to his flesh and blood father? This is a gripping piece of story-telling that delves into the lives of these characters and how they lived and loved. Their joys and fears. If you can find this book, I highly recommend it! |
TOO WICKED TO LOVE
by Barbara Dawson Smith Miss Jane finds herself a tiny bundle of joy on her doorstep one morning. At last, someone to fill up her lonely days and share her love. The only problem is that the baby came with a note saying that Marianne is Ethan Sinclair's child. Notorious for being a rake and a rogue, Jane holds him to his duty of being a father to the baby... Only she can't bear to leave Marianne either. I loved when Ethan finally realizes that Jane is all woman, and not the skinny "Miss Maypole" who used to tag-a-long when they were kids. |
|
ONCE UPON A SCANDAL
by Barbara Dawson Smith Emma is a strong-willed, independent, and willing to do anything to keep her family together, including stealing from her peers. Her husband returns after a seven year absence with priceless jewels and artifacts...and his long-time mistress. She has a terrible secret that she must keep from Lucas, for it may shatter the love that they have growing. My heart goes out to Emma, for she is blamed for the cruelty that was dealt to her, and scorned by society and the man that should have stood by her. This book made my stomach lurch with the unfairness of life, made me smile when things were turning out all right, and made me sigh when it was over. |
BREATH OF MAGIC
by Teresa Medeiros Tristan Lennox is a man on a mission, but he was a bit unclear on what that mission was, until she fell out of the sky on a flaming broomstick, and practically into his arms. Unsure of what kind of reception a witch from 300 years in the past would get in todays world, Arian Whitewood was content to keep quiet about her past. Enter into a story full of magic, humor, and a mystery that crosses through time and you have a great reading experience. I DID!!! |
|
FAIREST OF THEM ALL
by Teresa Medeiros Holly is most definitely head strong and brave, on top of being beautiful. Poor Austyn doesn't have a chance. However, with a family curse looming over his head, and the responsibilities of taking care of his crumbling castle, and slightly insane father, this headstrong man will do everything in his power to deny his feelings and trust his bride. I laughed and cried, and my stomach did flip flops on the rollercoaster ride of exquisite writing! |
|
LADY OF CONQUEST
by Teresa Medeiros Conn of the Hundred Battles is bold, brave and in love with Gelina O Monaghan, a strong and spirited woman, who can wield a sword better than most men. And she's done just that - against his own men! Through death, betrayal and a little insanity, will these two ever make it to happily-ever-after? With gut wrenching obstacles put in their path, I wanted to yell, "What the (beep!) is wrong with you!" Excellent writing and detail. |
SILK & STEEL
by Kat Martin I really fell into this book. I worried over Kathryn's plight and whether or not she would escape the cluches of her uncle. I wondered at Lucien's actions at the beginning. Would he be a decent, honorable man? Could he be the hero we hope Kathryn deserves? This is a fast, enjoyable read! |
|
THE RUNAWAY PRINCESS
by Christina Dodd When Evangeline Scoffield took off for a summer of a lifetime, masquerading as a mystery lady, she never dreamed she would be caught in passion and prophecy, all the while protesting with her prince. He had the wrong princess! A case of mistaken identity that could cost him the throne and both of their lives. Add a villian who tries abduction and assassination, a saint, and a little magic, and you have a truly delightful book! |
THAT SCANDALOUS EVENING
by Christina Dodd Jane had a secret gift and an great eye for beauty. But when she captures Lord Blackburn's likeness, unbeknownst to him, and it becomes the center of scandal, poor Jane is sent off to the country with her reputation in ruins and destined to become an old maid. Ten years later, and firmly on the shelf, she returns to London as a chaperone, but that old scandal rises again, and Jane is helpless to do anything about it. This time, however, Blackburn comes to her rescue instead of throwing her back to the wolves. I loved this book! I laughed so hard when I found out Jane's scandal, that I had tears in my eyes, and I grit my teeth when things weren't going right. READ THIS BOOK!!! |
|
|
THE PRINCESS
by Jude Deveraux Did I mention that I love the Montgomery men? J.T. is no exception. This is a fast paced, wonderfully romantic book. Can you guess who the traitor is? I couldn't! I have to admit that the pet names were a bit irritating, but I have to remember the time period that this book was written in. I love the characters and I see a potential for a future romance novel between Frank Taggert and Princess Gena...I am breathlessly waiting to read more of the Montgomery and Taggert families! |
|
VELVET ANGEL
by Jude Deveraux I absolutely love all of the Montgomery men!!! Velvet Promise, Highland Velvet and Velvet Song are required reading, before or after you read this book! Elizabeth can definitely take care of herself, for her fears are what propells her. Miles cannot help but be attracted to the precious gift...A woman with fire, spirit, and challenging in the chase to capture her trust and her love. |
THE ARAB MARILYN MONROE - EROTIC PRELUDE
by Sienna Wilder Olivia Pappas is stuck in a miserable relationship and feeling the dissatisfaction of an incomplete life. While on vacation in France she meets an exotic, curvaceous beauty who awakens her sensuality. Author, Sienna Wilder introduces us to Olivia and her Arab Marilyn Monroe, Fairuz, in the beginning of their journey of sexual discovery. Without a doubt, this is a fast read and the sex is hot but the transitions often seem rushed and a little stilted. There are small segments where the author eludes to important issues like religion, cultural, and family perceptions of an LGTB life, but they are never fully expanded upon. It would benefit from more back story but I look forward to the next installment of Olivia’s journey. |
|
MIND SLAVES OF THE ROSIKRUCIAN COLLECTORUM - PART 1
Mayhem on the Astral Highway Illustrated by Pierre S. Freeman (Kindle Edition) How do you feel about cliffhangers? Michael Bloomfield, a young, impressionable college student, is seeking…something. His chosen path to become an actor is stymied by a perceived lack of ability and he finds himself settling on a direction less than worthy of his dreams. His vulnerability is perfect fodder for a scrupulous recruiter of the mysterious Rosikrucian Collectorum. Exploiting his desire to be greater than his physical form he is introduced into a mind game of astral projection and may have found himself trapped in an alternate reality. Pierre S. Freeman, a Haitian-born immigrant to the United States may have lived a similar life to which he introduces us to in Mayhem on the Astral Highway. His prose leads us deeper into one young man’s journey of discovery – but at what cost? The dialogue is good and we are teased with character development which leads to a rather abrupt halt, which has its good and not-so-good points. Good: I wanted to read more because the cliffhanger gave me no choice. Not-so-good: I did not get a clear sense of direction on where the author was taking me. Is this Michael’s story or is he just a pawn in a greater message that was not yet conveyed? |
AMORC's First Temple Degree Initiation Ritual
Abridged Version With Commentary Part 1 Illustrated by Pierre S. Freeman (Kindle Edition) If this was my first experience with AMORC and what they preach, do, or believe, this selection reads more like an instruction manual. Mr. Freeman is very concise on the physicality of their rituals and induction ceremony but unfortunately falls short of storytelling. The commentary given by author, Pierre S. Freeman gives insight to his feelings about the organization. His disdain and sarcasm is quite clear but, beneath the rhetoric I wonder if Mr. Freeman can pick a side in regard to the candidates of AMORC: are they sheep, prisoners, recruits, initiates, candidates, disciples, or Neophytes? The duality of commentary with what to expect is confusing and scatters the point of the author’s message. There is very little consistency with his language thus begging the question: am I reading an instruction guide or a warning? |