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E-ROMANCE

Author: Karen Wiesner
Title - Baby, Baby (Family Heirlooms #1, Christian Romance)

Thirty-seven-year-old Tamara Wolfe married Robert right after finishing high school. While Robert worked at the waste treatment plant, Tamara stayed at home to care for the house and kids. The last of her children is now in preschool and Tamara has too much idle time on her hands. To fill the void, Tamara decides to make a business out of her long-time love of creating designer gift baskets. She never dreamed that Robert would be totally against it. Robert continuously tells Tamara that even though their friends and family members enjoys them, the baskets are not worthy of selling to strangers.

Robert's father has always told him that a man who does not provide for his family without help is the worst kind of loser. Therefore, Roberts sees Tamara's basket business as a threat to his manhood. What will happen if her business thrives? Would she spend extra time with her basket business and not keep the house clean or take as much care of the family? Worse, what if she CAN keep up with the house, kids, and even ends up making more money than he did? Robert begins to wonder if Tamara needs another baby to keep her so busy that a basket business is simply not possible.

At the same time, Robert is having trouble at the plant. Robert has been a plant operator for twenty years. He is now up for the position of plant manager. But Wayne, who has only been with the plant five years, is also up for the promotion. Wayne has a college degree and the city manager believes it to be more important than experience. Should Wayne get the promotion, what would Robert do?

**** THREE & A HALF STARS! The Wolfe family greatly resembles the Cleaver family from the old television show "Leave It To Beaver". It is up to Tamara to care for the children, keep the house spotless, take the kids to (and be part of) all after school activities, and have a hot meal (usually made from scratch) waiting on the table when Robert comes home. Even Tamara's nights are not her own. All Robert must do is work his eight hours and come home for Tamara to pamper him.

Author Karen Wiesner brings the Wolfe family into the new century. Though it is obviously due to the influence of Robert's father, the mind-set about only the man being allowed to financially support the family is a thing of the past. And I am in awe of Tamara. Personally, I can think of very few women who have been crafted from the same mold as Tamara. (Keeping the house totally spotless, cooking all the meals, and caring for all the kids more than makes a full time job. Yet instead of relaxing for the few precious hours that she has for herself, Tamara prefers to turn her hobby into a part time job!)

I had a bit of trouble believing Robert's stubbornness at first, especially as I witnessed him down-playing the talents of a woman he was supposed to love, until it dawned on me HOW he came to be this way. My epiphany came from a minor character, Robert's sister. Wiesner's subtle inclusion of his sister is what finally, to me, made Robert's character believable. If you are looking for a sweet, Christian romance, you have no need to go any further than here. ****

Author: Karen Wiesner
Title - Shadow Boxing
(Family Heirlooms #2, Christian Romance)

THE PAST: As a motherless teenager, Justine Morris took care of her dying father alone. Only stolen moments with Joshua Samuels helped ease her stress. When Justine realized she was pregnant, the pair wed to avoid problems within their Christian families and began building a life together for their new daughter, Vashti "Vash".

THE PRESENT: In two months Vash is to leave for college. But Vash has no need for a degree in psychology to notice that her parents' marriage is in trouble. Almost two decades together and they still act uncomfortable around each other, as if on dates very early in a blooming relationship. Her parents are obviously attracted to one another, yet each is independent to a fault. All the signs point to them separating and eventually divorcing once she leaves for college.

In the hope of stopping Justine and Joshua from making the biggest mistake of their entwined lives, Vash has set in motion plans of her own. The three of them are to spend a week on a Christian outreach mission's trip. The trio will help build a house for a Mexican family that had lost their home in a mudslide. During this time they will sleep in tents, have no communications with home, and (hopefully) Justine and Joshua will come to learn how they honestly feel for each other.

**** FOUR STARS! In this second story of the Family Heirlooms series, we return to Peaceful, Wisconsin. As with most of today's families both the husband, Joshua, and the wife, Justine, each enjoy their own career. The main problem is that by marrying due to a sense of responsibility, instead of allowing their romance to take its natural course, their relationship became as if frozen in time. The author, Karen Wiesner, has done a wonderful job of showing how such a couple can have conflicting emotions and how vital open communications are. As for Vash, I hope to see more of this intelligent young lady in future books of the series; even if it is only as a counselor for other main-couple characters. Brava! ****

Author: Karen Wiesner
Title - Foolish Games
(Family Heirlooms #3, Christian Romance)

Peter Samuels has owned and operated a Christian book store for fifteen years now in Peaceful, Wisconsin. One year ago he lost his wife, Lydia, to a brain tumor. Peter honestly has no idea how he would have coped if not for the help of Lydia's best friend, Kimberly Wolfe. The thirty-four-year-old lady has been a close friend to the entire Samuels clan since her childhood and has worked in the book store since its opening. In fact, Kimberly is the only reason his store has not gone out of business after Lydia's death. Peter has two kids. They have known Kimberly all their lives and consider her to be an honorary aunt or second mother. And speaking of the children, James and Brenna seem to be finally moving on. This is partly due to Kimberly's presence. However, Peter is still grieving for Lydia.

Kimberly Wolfe has always loved Peter, though she has been careful to keep the knowledge from him. When Peter fell in love with Lydia and then wed her, Kimberly had been happy for them. She could easily see their love for each other. They were a perfect match. When Lydia died, the pain cut Kimberly as deeply as it did Peter and she did everything she could to help Lydia's family make it through the aftermath.

An innocent kiss at a New Year's party leads to a growing awareness between Peter and Kimberly. Peter is not sure he can love again or if his friends and family would consider his new feelings for Lydia's friend to be wrong. Kimberly is not sure whether her love for Peter is right or wrong either. Even if she can be with Peter, Kimberly must first deal with her fears borne of the past. Kimberly's domineering father had used the Bible to justify his God-given right as head of the household. Kimberly cannot forget how her father had literally destroyed her mother with his mental, verbal, and sometimes physical abuse. Even though Kimberly no longer lives in his home, her father still tries to control her. Due to this, Kimberly fears trusting any man and has never allowed any man to get close enough for a real relationship.

Can Peter see Kimberly as more than a friend and employee? Can Kimberly ever forgive her father or trust Peter not to someday become just like him?

**** FOUR STARS! This story has several characters. Those who play large roles are well developed, while those with lesser roles are not. (After all, why learn a detailed background of someone who is only mentioned in passing or appears for a brief cameo or two?)

Lydia had been a huge part of Peter and Kimberly's lives before she died. The author has done a terrific job of explaining this, as well as why Peter and Kimberly worry about whether their growing love for each other is wrong. Kimberly's character is caring and forgiving, except where her father is concerned - for good reasons. The reader quickly understands that Kimberly really was happy for Peter and Lydia's marriage to be so wonderful. Kimberly was not then, nor is she now, the type who would consider trying to steal Peter from Lydia. Kimberly never comforted Peter in hope that he would turn into her embrace or something like a rebound. The author made Kimberly the exact opposite. The lady is as beautiful inside as she is on the outside. (Kimberly is the type of person that I would love to be able to call my close friend.) Yes, there are people in today's world that are as caring and sincere as Kimberly's character is, but they are few and far between.

In this story, Wiesner shows that each person needs to follow the path God leads them to, even if by doing so the person disappoints their family. That path is not always easy either. If there is one lesson that I have learned about the author it is this: Stories by Karen Wiesner warm my heart like a cozy fire on a chilly night. ****

Author: Karen Wiesner
Title - Glass Angels (Family Heirloom #4, Christian Romance)

Set in Wisconsin. Three years ago Samantha "Sam" Samuels had been sexually assaulted by Ryder Feldmann. Pastor Samuels, Sam's father, had been counseling Ryder and had kept urging Sam to befriend the man, even though Pastor Samuels had known that Ryder was a convict. Pastor Samuels's evangelistic ambitions had made him blind and he made Sam go out with Ryder. Since that horrible event, Sam refused all contact with her father. The most tragic part about that time in Sam's life was that she had been love with Kyle Feldmann, Ryder's older brother.

Kyle testified against his brother during the trial, but he could never blame her for breaking up with him. Now, three years later, Kyle owns Feldmann Christian Divorce Counseling where he counsels others. His son, Chad, is fifteen-years-old, a difficult time in a young man's life. Though Kyle and Chad have always been close, recently Chad has been putting distance between them. But Kyle understands the teen's need for some independence and he does his best to give Chad the space he desires. It is Summer Break and instead of getting a part time job, Chad spends most of his time with his girlfriend, Winnie. Kyle has known Winnie (basically) all her life. Kyle is happy to see the life-long friendship blooming into romance. Kyle tries to also keep up with news about Samantha.

Over the past three years, Sam has lived in an apartment between Peaceful and La Crosse, where she has been attending college. Her friend, Jordan Palunachek, has started a rape counseling clinic called Glass Angels. The largest corner office has been held for Sam, waiting for her to finish earning a Master's Degree in psychology. Samantha believes God has been leading her to this path; to help women who have gone through the same trauma she has. Samantha is surprised to learn that Glass Angels is in the building owned by Kyle and that her clinic shares the building with Kyle's counseling center.

Sam has never blamed Kyle for his brother's sin. They both quickly realize that their feelings for each other have not dimmed. They begin dating again. Kyle cannot accept that their love will not work out this time. He wants so much to help Samantha heal. He will need to be painstakingly sensitive and slow, because though the assault was three years ago, Samantha has not really begun to heal. To make matters worse, Ryder is about to be released from his prison confinement and he has not changed one bit.

***** FIVE STARS! There is even more going on than I reveal in my synopsis, but to touch on everything would more than double the story's description. The author shows that bad things can and do happen to good people, but it is for each person to decide whether they will break and crumble under the pain or bend and find a way to make their pain work for some good. Karen Wiesner often takes Christian Romance from its normal shelf and propels it well beyond all expectations. This story is a prime example. Stellar! *****

Author: Karen Wiesner
Title - Shards of Ashley (Family Heirloom #5)

Ashley Savage grew up in an uncaring family. Since the age of five her mother, Corinne, abused Ashley in several horrific ways. Mentally. Verbally. Physically. Later Corinne wed but nothing improved for Ashley. In fact, Ashley's abuse worsened. Her pampered half-sister was nothing less than a bully. Corinne and her husband, Pedro Ramirez, played at being Christians. The Ramirezes delighted in telling everyone at church about their sinful and wayward daughter, Ashley. No one asked Ashley for her side of the story. Ashley never said one word of ill against her family or in her own defense. Everyone believed the worst of Ashley.

Now an adult, Ashley no longer turns to drugs or sleeps around. Today Ashley is the sole owner of A&A Design. She has become a success in every sense of the word. The only person who knows even a bit of Ashley's history is Jasmine "Jazz" Pepowski. Jazz is Ashley's closest friend, but even Jazz does not know every horror that Ashley has locked away in her mind.

The one man who has the annoying ability of getting through her defenses is Jay Samuels, a military chaplain. In six months Jay will retire from the military and become the local pastor. As the story opens, Jay has Leave for one week and Ashley is picking him up from the airport. For Jay, simple friendship is no longer enough. Not when he has seen her strength, the way she had picked up the pieces of her shattered life and rebuilt herself from scratch. Ashley has never allowed anyone to get close to her. She pushes everyone away, including Jay. But during his week home, Jay plans to somehow convince Ashley to marry him. To accomplish this, Jay needs to find out about every dark secret in Ashley's past. Jay needs to make Ashley see that she could trust him even if she could not trust another single person. But Jay does not realize the extent of all Ashley has walled off within her own subconscious or what keeps her from giving herself to God.

***** FIVE STARS! This is the fifth story within the Family Heirloom series. Once again Karen Wiesner is tackling a hard topic that most authors would avoid like the plague. When one, such as Ashley, has been dealt several, various abuses and yet, somehow, still manages to straighten out her life and succeed, then the LAST thing she is eager to do is to put her trust in another human being. When that same person has begged all her life for God to help her, save her, and then for Him to never heed her distress, then the LAST thing she is willing to turn to is her faith in God.

Wiesner not only goes into the needs for Ashley to deal with her past, her issues with trust and control, and of finding her way back to God. The author also looks at the how many Christians often fail to help their neighbors. In this story, Ashley is wild and has done many sinful things; however, no one in the congregation ever thought to wonder WHY the teenager was doing it all. Because Ashley never defended herself or told anyone that her parents were telling lies, her fellow Christians assumed she was guilty and gathered around the "poor parents". In reality, no real Christian likes to believe that they may have overlooked such crimes happening to the children within their church. Yet it happens more often than you would think. As I read Ashley's story, I found myself looking at the young kids and teens around me in a different light. Perhaps those wild teens drinking on the street corner are seeking escape from something worse at home.

If you have not read the previous titles of the Family Heirlooms series, you will still fully enjoy this story. Each title is a stand-alone tale. However, if you have read them, I am happy to inform you that Samantha Samuels and Kyle Feldmann, from "Glass Angels" (Family Heirloom #4), are wed in this episode. And if you are familiar with Wiesner's "Kaleidoscope series", you may notice a small reference to the Kaleidoscope building too. Noticing that made the setting more believable to me, especially since the reference was made "in passing" - instead of being used as a plug for another series.

If you are looking for a Christian Romance that will touch your heart, while also opening your eyes to a new way of viewing the world around you, then this author is for you! Not just this story, but ALL of Karen Wiesner's stories are this way. As for this individual story, you will be treated to a realistic, well written tale that will capture your attention almost immediately, hold onto it until the very ending, and will long linger in your mind. I am unable to explain how much I loved Ashley's story. In a word: "Indescribable!" *****

Author: Kimberly Van Meter
Title - The Past Between Us
(Mama Jo's Boys #1, SuperRomance 1694)

Cassandra "Cassi" Nolan and Thomas "Tommy" Bristol had grown up together in Bridgeport, West Virginia. At the age of ten, Cassi had been a rich girl, one of the popular kids. She had also been the only person in school to walk up and befriend the twelve-year-old poor boy. Tommy had been one of three white foster boys living with Mama Jo, a single black woman. Mama Jo had adopted the three kids with the worst personal histories. Though Mama Jo was a small woman, her sharp gaze could cut a person to the core.

The past between Cassi and Tommy is just that - the past. Now Cassi Nolan is wanted by the law and FBI Agent Thomas Bristol is the one assigned to bring her in. He has spent the last two months tracking the little thief down. The evidence in her file clearly shows that Cassi has changed. No matter what he once felt for her, Tommy cannot let those guileless blue eyes trick him into letting her go.

Cassi is claiming herself to be innocent of all charges. She has been on the run for two years. During that time she has been hunting down information on her stepfather, Lionel Vissher, who Cassi says murdered her mother to get his hands on the family's fortune and is currently after her. But Tommy has heard countless criminals claim similar tales and he refuses to fall for her act...even if her story is starting to make sense.

***** FIVE STARS! Sizzling, suspenseful, and full of drama well describes this story, the first of a new trilogy by Kimberly Van Meter. This talented writer has taken a strong man with a horrible past and (basically) handcuffs him to the one woman in the world able to see through all of his emotional barriers to the raw wound still bleeding upon his heart. The author injects honor within his veins and an all-consuming desire to follow the law (to the letter) within his soul. Not content to stop there, Van Meter follows this up by making sure that his slippery and deceitful prey is none other than his first love. It all adds up to create one of the most captivating romances I have read this year. I did not really need that night of sleep anyway. *****

Author: Kimberly Van Meter
Title - A Chance in the Night (Mama Jo's Boys #2 / SR #1700)

As a kid, Christian Holt had been helpless to stop his mother from selling herself to men. Much of her earnings went to support her illegal drug habit. Christian had been eleven-years-old when she died from an overdose. Eventually he ended up in West Virginia with Mama Jo, a petite black woman with a big heart, the wisdom to understand what a troubled teenager needs to straighten himself out, and strong-willed enough to make the teen actually want to change. Mama Jo raised Christian up right, along with his two other foster brothers.

Now an adult, Christian is a bartender at an upscale bar in Manhattan. He has solid plans to open his own nightclub in the near future with a buddy. First, however, they must entice an investor to aid them set things into motion. Christian has always been able to read people well. Yet unknown to Christian, his keen sense is totally wrong when it comes to Skye. She is Belleni's best call-girl but, no matter how you look at it, the pretty lady is just like his mother. She sells herself for cash. To Christian, this means she is not worth his time and he refuses to give into his attraction to her. But when Skye's rich client becomes physically violent, Christian cannot ignore the situation. After all, Mama Jo would have never let him live it down. Saving Skye's life ends up changing everything.

Belleni offers only the best to his clients and they pay him well for the privilege of booking a date with Belleni's elite stable. The man is smooth and charming on the surface, but turns vicious when crossed. The only person more heartless than Belleni is Vivian Forrone, his right-hand-man (so to speak). Vivian is a sociopath draped in a socialite's body. In her own twisted way, Vivian has been in love with Belleni for over two decades. They had even been lovers at one time in the past. She knows Belleni goes through women and Vivian has always kept her jealousy in check. But five years ago, Belleni saw Skye and his infatuation with the woman still shows no signs of ebbing. Belleni had entered Skye's life when she had been most vulnerable. Using his charm, Belleni impregnated Skye and she has been in his power ever since.

No matter how much four-year-old Nico physically resembles Belleni, Skye D'Lane loves him with all of her heart. Skye would do anything for her son and Belleni knows it. Belleni keeps Skye isolated from her family and uses Nico as leverage against her. Skye is now Belleni's best girl and earns him much profit with the clients. She lives alone in a cheap, small apartment. To keep Skye from running away, Nico lives with Belleni. If Skye wants to see Nico or spend an afternoon with her son, she must earn the privilege. Skye is not looking for a hero when Christian swoops in and rescues her from a violent client. Yet after only a short time in his company, Skye cannot stop from wondering if Christian could help her and Nico escape Belleni. The problem is that by doing so, Belleni would go after Christian, as well as his family.

**** FOUR STARS! Christian Holt is the second of Mama Jo's foster sons to get his story published. In my personal opinion, this tale is not as exciting as the first, but the danger is just as real. (The previous title is "The Past Between Us" and involves Christian's foster brother, FBI Agent Thomas Bristol.) For readers with soft hearts, I will state that the child, Nico, is never harmed or ever in any real danger. So if you tend to pass on stories involving a child, rest assured that this story is safe for you to read.

Kimberly Van Meter has a creative writing style, with a unique flavor all its own. I really wanted to begin reading another novel once I had finished this one; however, I found myself unable to do so. I cannot express exactly why, but these characters kept lingering in my mind. They almost seemed to demand that I sit quietly and enjoy the warm and humorous feelings that the author left me with. Whatever the reason, this is one romance that will quickly capture your imagination and warm your heart. ****

Author: Kimberly Van Meter
Title - Secrets in a Small Town (Mama Jo's Boys #3 / SR #1706)

In Dayton, California, twenty-five years ago, Owen Garrett had been at the tender age of eleven, when his life shattered. His father, Ty Garrett, had been the leader of a racist cult at Red Meadows. Ty had been killed, along with many others, when the FBI raided the compound. It had been a massacre. Young Owen had been sent to live with an aunt, who relinquished custody of Owen to the state. Eventually, Owen landed in the care of Mama Jo, a petite black woman with more heart and wisdom than anyone Owen had ever met.

Today, Owen Garrett is the owner of Big Trees Logging. He has returned to Dayton so that his family name would not always be associated with only bad feelings due to the town's history. The logging business should help bring good things to the town and, hopefully, change the public perception of the Garrett name. This is hard to do, thanks to a reporter who keeps writing articles about his company. Piper, the journalist, is painting Owen as a man with no heart, stating that his company is cutting down the forests without any consideration for the environment.

Piper Sunday is a reporter for the Dayton Tribune. The ambitious lady has dreams of landing a Pulitzer someday. The incident at Red Meadows may be her ticket to receiving the award, as well as earning a position at one of the more well known papers. Piper believes that she has found proof that Owen's father was innocent. Her source claims that Ty was deep undercover with the FBI when the raid went down and that the shooting was a cover-up. But no one is willing to talk about the event. Piper cannot help but wonder why everyone is trying to bury all knowledge about what actually happened at Red Meadows. It is starting to feel as if everyone has something to hide, including her own parents. Piper refuses to stoop digging until she learns the truth.

Reluctantly, Owen and Piper team up to uncover the truth of what really happened at Red Meadows. Spending time together has each seeing the other in a new light. But even so, would they ever be able to fully trust one another?

***** FIVE STARS! This is the final story in the trilogy about Mama Jo's Boys. Owen is the one who feels he must prove himself worthy to the Dayton community. Since Owen lives in California and Mama Jo stays in West Virginia, Mama Jo's role is much smaller than in the previous titles. However, Mama Jo is not forgotten. If a woman begins to mean something to one of her boys, then Mama Jo has to meet her and decide if she is worthy. During Thomas's (The Past Between Us) story and Christian's (A Chance in the Night) story, hints were given about Mama Jo's health possibly declining. Everything becomes clear in this episode.

Kimberly Van Meter's stories are a true pleasure to read. *****

Author: Trish Jensen
Title - For a Good Time, Call ...

Sherry Spencer may be thirty-years-old, but anyone looking at her would believe her to be a teenager. Although her face reflects pretty innocence, inside she has the determination of a bulldog. She has been so busy making a name for herself in the advertising field that she has not really been bothered about her lack of dates. Sherry works for Simpson & Bailey. She is an advertising marvel. She has won every major award her industry has to offer, and some they do not. Sherry has so many clients and accounts that her boss, Fred Simpson, allows her to accept or decline taking on any new ones, no matter how big.

Sherry knows she is a wiz. She had worked hard to become one. Yet Sherry is not the cynic so many in her profession are. She has remained the nice person she was when she began her career, but she is no push over. So when Sherry reads "For a good time call Kit" on a twenty dollar bill, she dials the local phone number to warn the poor lady. After all, who knows how many bills were floating around with the lady's number on them. However, Kit turns out to be a man. One who actually demands that Sherry shred the twenty dollar bill. When the demand fails, Kit offers to meet with her and exchange the twenty for another.

Christian "Kit" Fleming is the CEO of Bella Luna Industries, Inc. Having grown up in an environment that nightmares could be made from and having seen what marriage could do to people, Kit refuses to ever wed. Every woman Kit dates is informed of his rules up front. Kit gives no promises of monogamy, commitment, or love. Whether it be his business or private life, Kit must have full control. Unlike his childhood, Kit would never again put himself in a vulnerable position. Vulnerability makes a person weak.

While exchanging currency with Sherry, Kit realizes that she is the young ad genius he is due to meet in the boardroom the following morning. Though Kit believes she is a thoroughly irritating, stubborn female, he still wants her on the Bella Luna commercial project. She appeals to him like no woman he has known. It is more than just her intelligence or pretty face. She possesses an elusive quality that makes him eager to learn everything about her. Kit's problem is that Sherry has absolutely no fear of him. She could take his business or leave it. She could take him or leave him. Kit has zero control over Sherry. Which makes her dangerous. But one way or another, Sherry will be his next acquisition. Kit fully intends to sleep with her someday soon. And Kit plans to make certain their time together would be on his terms, by his rules.

***** FIVE STARS! Author Trish Jensen has penned a romance that is ambrosia for the heart strings. Fans of Jayne Ann Krentz's early books (such as Family Man and Wildest Hearts) will especially enjoy this battle of wills. No wimpy hero or heroine, both are secure in their business positions, and neither plans to give an inch. In my humble opinion, this is Jensen's best story to date. Exhilarating! *****

Author: Trish Jensen
Title - Nothing But Trouble
(Previously published as "On the House")

Laura Tanner grew up without a mother. And a father who saw her as nothing more than an inconvenience. She wed her boyfriend right out of high school and moved to New York, where he intended to make it big as an actor. Laura found the courage to dump her husband eight years ago. Since then she has made her own way in the world and is determined to never feel threatened by a man again. Not physically or emotionally. Laura has spent those eight years working her tail off to build a business. Now Laura owns and operates a bar called Nothing But Trouble. It is in a section of Manhattan that is close to Wall Street and caters to stockbrokers and lawyers. Laura may look fragile, but the self-reliant lady runs a classy place and she tolerates no grief from her clients. In her entire life, Laura has never met a man who did not want to take whatever his self-centered heart desired. But all bets are off once her Prince approaches her bar counter.

Brandon Prince had not been born with a silver spoon in his mouth. No, he had been born with five of them. He has just passed the Rhode Island bar exam and is taking a break before starting his job in the Newport County District Attorney's office. While visiting his buddy, Ned, a stockbroker on Wall Street, they wind up in Ned's favorite bar. And when two huge guys begin causing problems, Ned informs Brandon not to interfere as Laura enters the room. (Laura would not appreciate the help.) Once Laura disables the men and tosses them out of her establishment, Brandon's future has been cast. Nothing will do for Brandon except winning Laura.

When Brandon asks her out on a date, Laura explains that the odds of that happening were the same as Elvis walking in to play a game of pool. Brandon takes up the challenge. Then Laura agrees to go out with him when donkeys fly. Well, that is doable too. But Brandon soon comes to realize that he wants more than a few dates with Laura. Brandon wants this little spitfire in his life permanently. And when Brandon really wants something, he has a way of somehow making it happen.

**** FOUR STARS! If you are looking for hot bedroom scenes, go elsewhere. This little gem is pure entertainment. It has a small cast of eclectic characters and simply overflows with humor, witty dialogue, and romance. When you finish reading, do not be surprised to notice if you give a huge sigh of contentment. After all, is it really possible to hate a gentleman who is so assiduous in courting the lady he loves? ****

Author: Kemberlee Shortland
Title - Constant Craving
(Short sequel to "A Piece of My Heart", Irish Pride series)

Since they have brought the twins home, life has not been the same for Kate and Mick Fairhill. They never go anywhere or do anything together anymore. Mick is determined to give Kate and the twins the life they deserve. Therefore, Mick spends all his waking hours working their farm and adding an extension to the house. Liam Conneelly, Kate's father, helps Mick daily with the work.

Kate is becoming depressed. Her life revolves around the babies and the house. She wants some alone time with her husband. Problem is that Mick is constantly working. Kate tries often to speak with Mick when he comes into the house, but he is too tired to even listen. Getting undressed and, hopefully, a shower take about all the energy he has left after a full day of work. The construction noise is so bad that in order to get any sleep Kate and the twins often travel to the Conneelly Farm. Mary, Kate's mother, is always happy to care for the babies so Kate may get some much needed rest.

When Mick tells Liam why he is working so hard and how guilty he feels about falling asleep while Kate is talking, Liam gives Mick some advice on how to deal with a new family life and romance. At the same time, Mary is giving Kate some romantic ideas as well. Will Kate and Mick manage to hold their new marriage together?

**** FOUR STARS! This short story is a sequel to "A Piece of My Heart". If you have not read the previous title, I highly suggest you do so. You will not find yourself lost if you do not, however, the characters went through a lot and knowing about those events would make this story more special. (The price for "A Piece of My Heart" is low and the price for this sequel is [at the time of this review] under one dollar.) Both titles are part of the Irish Pride series.

To me, the nicest thing about a short story or novella is that there is no room for "filler". Every word of the story is needed and none are wasted or added. I, as the reader, am guaranteed a good tale in a small amount of time. And this author, Kemberlee Shortland, writes some fantastic stories!

Kemberlee Shortland has a creative writing style that easily communicates to readers all of the ardent feelings which Kathe and Mick feel for one another. Readers who have been married and then had kids will especially enjoy and empathize with the Fairhills' delimma. This story may be short, but it will linger in your mind for a long time. ****

Author: Karen Wiesner
Title - Retired and on the Rocks
(Denim-Blues mystery #1 / June 2010)

Denim "Den" McHart and a former cop named Sylvia "Syl" Price have been partners for five years. They run a successful private investigations company. During their time together, Den and Syl have dad an on-again, off-again romance. Currently their romance is in the off position.

Den is upset that Syl refuses to trust him with whatever secret she is holding back. Not only that, a month ago Den had been shot in the leg. He feels guilt for having put Syl in danger. Fearing a future repeat, Den retires and tries to restore antiques.

Sylvia lures Den back to the office and ensnares him in a new case. Client Naomi Deva had been jilted at the alter recently, only moments before the vows, when the groom caught her in the closet with his best man. Mayor Thomas Julian, Junior, is demanding the return of the engagement ring that is worth over one hundred grand. But the ring has gone missing.

Syl loves Den, but fears he will look at her in disgust should he ever learn that she had killed her abusive father in self-defense. Syl believes that action is what caused her mother's mental condition. The only person who knows all about it is her former partner, Detective Orlando Bateman.

Believing Den retired and out of Sylvia's romantic life, Orlando finally confesses his love to her. But it is up to Sylvia to decide if she can return his feelings or if she will break down and let Den (and his lady-roving eyes) back into her life. Either way, Orlando will stand beside Syl's decision and remain her friend, even if it tears his own heart apart.

**** FOUR STARS! I do not read much Christian Romance, but when I do Karen Wiesner is one of my absolute favorite authors. This story will clearly show you why.

This is the first mystery in a new series. The case involving an expensive ring begins and ends here. It is a stand-alone tale. The private lives of the main characters get equal time. The author does not force religion down the throat of the reader, but the characters' beliefs certainly help each one to deal with personal troubles. I find this jewel to be a fulfilling story of trust and faith. Memorable! ****

Author: R.C. Ryan
Title - Montana Destiny (McCord Cousins #2, 4/27/10)

The city of Gold Fever came by its name honestly. And everyone knows about the legendary McCord curse. All the McCord men have died trying to locate their ancestor's lost gold. When old Coot McCord died, his will brought three McCord cousins back to the Lost Nugget, the working ranch they grew up on together. Jesse, Wyatt, and Zane McCord reside on the ranch with their Aunt Cora as they continue Coot's search for the missing treasure.

Emergency medic Marilee Trainor grew up as an Army brat. Having been moved dozens of times in her life, Marilee has finally chosen Gold Fever in which to settle and dig some roots. Driving the ambulance makes her happy. Often Marilee will fly her small plane to deliver and pick up supplies for various businesses in her new town. But no matter how busy she keeps herself, Marilee finds that a certain rugged, sexy cowboy is managing to slip himself into her heart.

Wyatt McCord has been all over the world, but Coot's ranch is the only place that has ever felt like home. Lately there has been a lovely emergency medic that has captured his interest. When Marilee stumbles upon a clue to the McCord gold, she immediately delivers it to the ranch. That is when Marilee becomes a target in a mysterious killer's sights.

***** FIVE STARS! Watching this wild rebel and independent woman attempt to coexist was so much fun. This is the second McCord cousin's story. Though I enjoyed Jesse and Amy's story in the first book, Montana Legacy, it is my opinion that Wyatt and Marilee's is even better! (If that is at all possible.) The author, R.C. Ryan, delivers an ongoing tantalizing mystery suspense with heart warming romance. Sinfully yummy! *****

Title - Montana Legacy
(McCord #1 / Feb. 23, 2010)
Author: R.C. Ryan

The Lost Nugget is a working ranch in Montana. Grandpa Coot had purchased all the surrounding land possible, so the ranch now boasts thousands of acres. Three McCord cousins and their families live with Grandpa Coot and Aunt Cora in the massive house. Jesse McCord, the oldest cousin, never leaves the ranch. However, the other two leave when their parents move away from Montana. Once adults, Wyatt and Zane do not return to the Lost Nugget until they receive word of Grandpa Coot's death. The estranged cousins are brought back together for the funeral. The will forces the trio to remain on the ranch together and to continue Coot's search for the family lost fortune.

Amy Parrish is Jesse's lost love. As a teen, she had moved away suddenly, with no word of explanation. Now she has returned to care for her ailing father. Their feelings for each other have never dimmed, but neither is willing to hand over their heart for fear of rejection. Danger lurks them as well, because someone close is threatening Amy and Jesse's very lives.

**** FOUR STARS! A well written story with fully-developed characters that I easily came to care for. The tempers of the cousins are short and they enjoy venting their anger with their fists; however, the author makes it clear that they never abuse innocents. The unknown enemy does not begin causing trouble until half-way into the story. Until then the story focuses on reuniting the cousins and bringing Jesse and Amy back together. By the end, I felt as though I had read two back-to-back novellas. (Before danger starts and after.) However, since this title is the first of a trilogy, I understand that a solid foundation for all three titles needs to be built. The author does a fabulous job of it too. I eagerly await the next McCord cousin's story in May, 2010. ****

Author: Sue Swift
Title - Puckheads

Zoë Whipple's filming company is known for being one of the best. Zoë's perfectionist attitude always has her digging for answers and trying to find beauty in her work. Zoë agrees to film a documentary about the Portland Thunder hockey team's championship season. She never expects to fall in love with the team's captain, Daniel Crasseau, or for him to feel the same way. Neither does Zoë expect to find herself in the middle of a major media scandal or the target of vandalism by an unknown person.

When a rookie ends up dead on the ice, Zoë begins searching for answers and discovers that illegal painkillers and steroid usage is very common. A leak to the press has the team members blaming Zoë for all their recent misfortunes and at least one person is out for Zoë's blood. Even Daniel believes Zoë is the one who leaked out the drug news, despite her denials, and accuses her of imagining nonexistent conspiracies. Can Zoë continue making the documentary? Can the Thunder team still somehow win the championship? And is it possible for Zoë and Daniel to survive it all and remain together?

**** FOUR STARS! I could not help but like the character of Zoë almost instantly. She is intelligent, full of life, honorable, and the pride in her work clearly shows. I am disappointed in the character of Daniel though. I understand that "hockey players are poisoned by testosterone overload" (quoted from story), but no matter what he thought to himself or told others, his actions simply never showed he really loved Zoë. (At least not enough for me.)

As for the story itself, the author clearly showed how loud, thrilling, and intense the game of hockey is. I could almost see Zoë's jump and yell in excitement as she attended her first live game. The pressure players are under to perform well on the ice is shown too. It is no wonder that there is a lot of potential for the use of steroids and the abuse of other drugs. Whether you are a fan of sports or not, I have no doubt that you will enjoy this romance. ****

Title - White Rainbow
(Wounded Warriors #6)
Author: Karen Wiesner

Our story begins on January 2, 2009. Flint Jackson is known in the corporate world as the dreaded "Black Knight". He has made it his personal vendetta to crush all he feels has done him wrong. On this rainy day, Flint watches his father's funeral from a remote distance, gloating over the fact that he had achieved revenge. Flint has never forgiven his father for moving the family to Chicago when he had been eleven-years-old. His father had devoted his life to starting his own business and making it a success. Flint ruthlessly stole that business and crushed his father. Next on his agenda is to do the same to Nelson Cosmetics. On the same day Flint's family left Milwaukee, his girlfriend (also a preteen) went to California, even though he had begged her not to go. It does not matter to Flint that Jessie was only going for three months. It does not matter that neither Flint, nor Jessie, knew his family would be gone when she returned. She left him. So Nelson Cosmetics is on his radar.

In July, 2010, Jessie Nelson is found in a back alley with no pulse; however, the paramedics succeed in resuscitating her. She wakes up in a hospital bed. After years of living a selfish life, full of bad choices, and hurting everyone that loved her, Jessie is finally determined to change. But after spending most of her life in a self-destructing life style it would not be easy. Yet one year later, Jessie is still living her new Christian life. Many have forgiven Jessie for her past sins and some have not. Jessie has found a job in the family business which she loves. She volunteers at the local Wayward Angels shelter. She has made each day so full that this is not time left in it for her to get into trouble. Then Flint Jackson comes back to Milwaukee.

Only two months ago Flint had been in a horrible car wreck. No one knows how he survived. All Flint knows is that after the accident, over thirty years of built-up rage has disappeared. Just in time too, because Flint had been on the verge of completing his hostile take-over of Nelson Cosmetics. Now Flint wants only to make amends to everyone he has harmed. He is in town to confess to Jessie what he had almost done to her. As a new Christian, he is seeking atonement. What Flint is not expecting is the deep feelings for Jessie that, apparently, have not gone away.

**** FOUR STARS! The release date for this title is Summer, 2010. (No ISBN as of this review's date.) This story is basically about two people who are sorry for a lifetime of misdirection and are trying to turn their lives around with the help of God and their friends and families. If you are looking for a story with danger, suspense or passionate romance, check out some of Karen Wiesner's other series. This story is a Christian Romance.

Hearing Jessie and Flint's personal tales - of which I left out A LOT - gave me an inspirational boost. It is always amazing to me that no matter how badly you have lived your life or harmed others, there is forgiveness. And these two did some pretty bad stuff! If you are going through a rough time, this story may be just what you need. ****

Authors: Christine Spindler, Karen Wiesner
Title - Tears on Stone (Falcon's Bend #2)

Twenty-nine years ago Dorothy Hawks killed her abusive husband in self defense. The law took away her two young children and placed her in jail. When released, Dorothy began "S.O.S." (Society of Survivors) to help teach other women how they could protect themselves and their children.

Forty-nine year old Pam Garland is an abuse counselor and a major member of S.O.S. She often refers women to the organization. She has also been the legal guardian for MaryEmma and Shelley Gold since their abusive stepfather died years ago. Shelley had married an abusive man, Jack Wilson, and has a four-year-old daughter, Ariel. Ever since Jack died in a fire last year Shelley has been in depression. MaryEmma has taken over the role of caregiver to Ariel, hoping Shelley will get better. When disaster strikes, Pam has MaryEmma, Shelley, and Ariel pack quickly. They leave Springvale, Minnesota, without any notice to anyone. At MaryEmma's suggestion, they go to Falcon's Bend, Wisconsin, where MaryEmma spent the happiest time of her childhood (unknown to Pam).

Jordan Shasta was eleven when MaryEmma moved away from Falcon's Bend. He never forgot her or the stone garden she loved. Now the stone garden in his back yard is an overgrown mess. Jordan's wife, Kaitlyn, walked out last year without a backward glance and moved to Dallas, Texas. Jordan has sole custody of their eight-year-old daughter, Nicole. When MaryEmma moves in next door, Jordan hopes to get to know her again. Nicole hopes Ariel will become her new best friend. MaryEmma now seems withdrawn and keeps to herself, but Jordan is not above using the excuse of wanting to revive the stone garden to draw her out and spend some time with her. Shelley sleeps all day and parties most nights with numerous men. All the while, Pam is setting up a new S.O.S chapter in town and keeping her wards on short leashes. It soon becomes obvious that, unknown to Jordan when he was childhood friends with her, MaryEmma's life has been one long nightmare ... and it is not over yet.

***** FOUR AND A HALF STARS! Let me warn readers in advance that there two scenes of rape flash-backs. They are short, but I understand that some readers prefer to pass on books with any scenes at all. There is a lot of physical abuse throughout the story as well, but most are just mentioned in passing. I do not believe anything in this story will trigger anything for those who have physical abuse in their (real life) backgrounds.

That said, let me get to how much I enjoyed this story! Though there are two authors, I could never tell which parts were written by either. The duo must have the exact same writing style. There are a few sub-plots to keep things moving along at a brisk pace. I never found myself getting bored. The characters are well developed and I came to care for many of them. I look forward to more stories in Falcon's Bend. *****

Author: Pamela S. Thibodeaux
Title - Tempered Joy

Tamara and Craig's children are all grown up now; Amber with her own children and husband is making a new life and Ace is now a champion bull rider. Life seems ideal, but then tragedy strikes and tests not only the members of this tightly knit family, but also the young woman who, despite teasing and her own troubled past, loves Ace. Yet, Lexie will soon find that her love is what is needed when the Harris family stands on the brink of compounded tragedy.

***** Of all the books in this series, Tempered Joy is the most difficult to summarize. It is far more than an inspirational romance, for one thing, and for another, I do not want to risk giving away any of the pivotal surprises. Suffice it to say, it lives up to the title, as joy shines through despite heartaches that will make more than one fan weep, I dare say. Through it all, faith and love shine in the words, but not in a bland, falsely optimistic fashion. So often in novels, Christians face the sad moments and tough times with stoic piety that makes real Christians want to be ill because we do react badly to our hurts in this world, and not always in ways that honor our Father. Ms. Thibodeaux lets her characters be true to life without falling away from their faith. Her words are a ministry, showing any Christian who reads these books that you can come through your negative emotions even if you aren't rejoicing over the circumstances that invoked them. You will eventually be able to, with His help. She also depicts us in a way that can show non-believers we're people too. *****

Author: Gracie C. McKeever
Title - Sisters of Emsharra
(Fantasy Erotica / 2 books in 1)

Guardian Seductress (Book One)

Kalika Enlil had been a skilled sorceress, stronger in mind and body than the average Inanna. The Inanna are an ancient and superior race of beings that survive on the energy and life-force of humans. Had Kalika followed law, she would have gone far. Instead, Kalika was working to change the old ways. Kalika believed that if she gave birth to a human's son, his very existence may end the border wars between the Inanna of Emsharra and their enemy, the Sebiter of Gaiam. Her child could end the indiscriminate, unnecessary killing and enslavement of the humans. Her child would be the beginning of a new regime and a solution to the human conservation issue. If all continued as in the past, there would soon be no humans left.

Genesis "Gen" Enki had promised Kalika to watch after her son. Gen barely escaped with the new born before Kalika was arrested - only moments after giving birth. For twenty-eight years Gen watched over Alex. Alex had been adopted by Glenn Ryan and now resides in New York City. But the Inanna have found them. It is pure luck that Alex does not die in the assassination attempt. His father, Glenn, does though. The time has come to tell Alex about his heritage. Gen's main problem is her attraction to the now very adult Alex.

Alex Ryan has known since he was six-years-old that he was different from everyone else. He has enough to deal with just being a telepath. Now this hot woman is telling him that he is not even fully human. Half of his being is some sort of succubus and energy vampire combo. Alex soon finds out that being a hybrid is not so bad after all. He has several untapped powers, such as shapeshifting. Gen says he has "spirit-boost" within him too. It is a rare, regenerative component which is coveted by Inanna and Sebitu alike for its aphrodisiacal qualities. It also makes him even more of a target, according to his hot Amazonian bodyguard.

**** An erotica with a decent plot! This is a rare find; therefore, I want to make sure that fans of the Erotica genre know about this title. The next book, also given within the same cover, begins one year after this one ends, but with different main characters and problems. ****

Predator's Salvation (Book Two)

Twenty-four-year-old Mateo Diaz's fantasy woman could never be a human. He wanted a dangerous type of female, like the one who had killed his parents and brother. But that particular woman existed only in his nightmares. Mateo is en route to the home of Alex Ryan for some sort of special meeting when he finds himself abducted by a woman with wings. In Mateo's mind, the woman is like an Amazonian dominatrix and he admits to himself that the very thought is enticing. However, he is not so happy to find himself shackled and informed that he is now her property.

LeMia "Mia" Enlil is an exiled premier huntress of Emsharra. She may be Inanna, but she rejects the Alliance and New Regime. The human male, Mateo, is to be a pawn in her game of vengeance against Alex and Genesis. However, slowly Mia finds herself enjoying her new slave too much and unknown emotions begin to form within her. But since she is responsible for the death of Mateo's family, there is no way the man would forgive her...not that she wanted his forgiveness, of course.

Mateo's body could not decide whether to hate the alien or love her. He shockingly realizes he ceased to be unwilling at some point of his captivity. He is further shocked to realize his mind no longer lingers on thoughts of escape. As for Mia, Mateo ceased to be a pawn the minute he had swapped energy with her and had survived it with minimal physical damage. As the two try to figure out what is happening between them, others are tracking their location. One set of people has hopes of rescuing Mateo before Mia kills him. The other tracker wants to kill Mia, Mateo, and their potential rescuers.

**** Be warned of S&M in these two stories. No one under the age of seventeen should read these tales either. That said let me say that BOTH stories actually have decent plots. The backgrounds of the main characters are not fully developed, but more than enough is told so that I, as the reader, felt that I understood what motivates each character. By including Ryan and Gen in the second story, the author made the situation a bit more believable to me. All-in-all, I highly recommend this book to fans of erotica. And do not worry if any alien terms confuse you, a glossary of terms is at the end of the book - but I never needed to use it even once. Fantastic! ****

Author: Lynn A. Coleman
Title - Trespassed Hearts

Jordan Lamont expected new opportunities when he moved to Maine, but they didn't include having lobster bisque dumped on him twice, much less falling for the waitress who did it. However, Randi Blake has undergone her fair share of heartache and is not quite ready to trust and love. Despite this, Jordan is able to get into her heart until something happens that makes her wonder if she wasn't right to avoid the pain that love can bring.

*** Though not a profound story, this is a quick, light read with several lessons included. It's a sweet read that shows how important trust and forgiveness are. ***

Author: Pamela Tibodeaux
Title - A Hero For Jessica

From their first encounter, Paul Seville and Jessica Aucoin are fascinated by each other. When she turns to the handsome attorney for help in dealing with an issue from her past and a change she wants to take in her writing future, Paul becomes the hero she needs. Is Jessica who he needs?

***** I dare you not to smile before this story is over. The only possible flaw is its brevity. I could have easily read Paul and Jessica's story for another couple of hundred pages. Romans 8:28 is played out with a sweet reality that will encourage you and give you hope. I can believe that this might really happen, thanks to the characters being so true to life. Ms. Thibodeaux has a gift; if you read her works you will give yourself one. *****

Author: T.L. Schaefer
Title - The Saints of Midland

When her brother goes missing on Halloween night, Amanda Sims naturally goes in search of him, but soon finds herself on a very different quest. When she is joined by sheriff's deputy, Josh Kent, they encounter a mystical Keeper of the Way in the woods who seems to know both of them. Perhaps impulsively, Amanda offers to give up a bit of herself to gain her brother's safety. Immediately, she and Josh are thrust into another world where they will be guided by a parrot speaking the Queen's English, where magic is real, where ghosts and vampire like beings walk, and the dead linger, waiting for a prophecy to be fulfilled. The pair's arrival signals that what they have awaited might be about to come to pass. If Josh, a living ghost, and Amanda can pass three trials and defeat the evil Mage, all the lost souls will be free. If not, they will be in a form of Hell forever.

*** Beautiful prose illustrates this magical journey with vivid word pictures. I particularly liked the twist on how ghosts should be, as played out in Josh, and the parrot who was much more than he seemed. This is a different sort of epic quest, managing to have a huge scope without the excessive verbage that can bog down so many journey themed novels. ***

Authors: M.G. Braden & Cindy K. Green
Title - Hint of Summer

Two couples find love at two different beach houses in this sweet pair of stories. In the first, The Inheritance by MC Braden, Chase Taylor and Reece Weston are compelled by the terms of her grandmother's will to live in a beach house for six months, at the end of which time they have a choice to make about what to do with it. Before it's all over, unless crossed wires get them into trouble, they will find out that no matter where a house is located, it's love that makes it a home. In the second, Summer's Return by Cindy K. Green, Parker Radcliffe returns to what had been his family's summer home for years to sell it. In the process, he reconnects with his first love, Arianna Morgan, and discovers that the feelings are still there. Yet, one wrong word could shatter their chances of having so much as a summer love.

**** These quick reads prove that a romance can be sweet, passionate, and romantic without being graphically sensual. Either one would work as a longer, more fully developed novel, yet if you have only a brief amount of time to read, these are great mental snacks. ****

Author: Cindy K. Green
Title - A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to Your Wedding

On her way to a wedding, Kari Montgomery gets caught in the rain, but fortunately encounters a handsome man who knows what it means to be chivalrous. She doubts she'll ever see him again, but as it turns out, he's at the wedding, marrying the happy couple. From the moment they meet, Kari and Randy seem to hit it off to such an extent that gossip starts flying about them being engaged, yet somehow, they never quite get it together. Kari has a lot of baggage and Randy just is not sure how she feels about him. Yet, the way they keep bumping into each other seems to indicate that there could be a divine plan in action on their behalf.

**** This is a fun, refreshing, non-preachy read. Faith is simply part of the main characters' lives. The people come across as being real and imperfect, but still individuals who are decidedly Christian. If you find it a challenge to find wholesome romances that are not sappy, the problem is now solved. Cindy Green is proving that nice does not mean wimpy. ****

Author: Judith Rochelle
Title - Echoes of the Past

Heiress Lindsey Ferrell's life is turned upside down and put in danger when a stalker begins haunting her. In response to her plea for help, her old friend, Quinn, sends Nick Vanetta of Guardian Security to keep her safe. Initially, the two fail to get along at all, but the sparks turn into something like passion quickly. Even as they get closer to one another, the stalker does as well. Finding out why this person is after Lindsey and how to stop them will require a journey deep into the past to uncover secrets that Lindsey could never have dreamed existed.

**** I did not see the ending coming at all. It's a very clever twist and startling. If you love a good mystery, then I challenge you to take this one on. ****

Author: Rita A. Karnopp
Title - Kidnapped

Laura Palmer always looked at the pictures of missing children, hoping to help reunite a child and its parents, but when she sees her own daughter's face, her world is shattered. Across town, her husband, Aaron, is learning the same thing as she; that their beloved, adopted daughter, Amie, was not placed for adoption legally, and they may lose her. Moreover, with their own marriage on the shakiest of grounds, it seems they will lose each other as well as a result. However, neither confides in the other and each begins taking steps to find out more about the situation. Their investigations stir up a hornet's nest that endangers the family's very lives. The Palmers may not live long enough to worry about custody issues.

*** Though at times the story seemed a bit convoluted, the heartbreaking issues it raised and the high level of tension kept me reading and made me care about what was going to happen to this couple and to their daughter. This is an intriguing story that is impossible to put down once you get into it. ***

Author: Debbie Wallace
Title - The Senator's Daughter

As a favor to his friend, Senator Adams, Brent Howard "kidnaps" the other man's daughter, Sophie, on the eve of her wedding to Jonathan Lord, a man the Senator does not trust and who he believes is forcing the girl into the union. Although this is the correct conclusion, Sophie is none to pleased with being abducted and displays a spirit that Brent is forced to admire, though it is inconvenient, as she tries to escape. Over the course of the ordeal, the two realize that they are in love, but Sophie's fiancee is determined to get her back, no matter what it takes or who he has to kill.

**** Classic elements and fast paced action make this an easy to read, enjoyable story. Though I never quite understood why Brent didn't just tell Sophie the truth, that did not detract from the overall quality of this book. ****

Author: J Morgan
Title - Ghost of a Chance

Jessica was just an ordinary girl until the day she was stabbed in the back, literally. If things had been going normally, she would have seen the light and gone to Heaven, but no such luck. She finds herself standing at the crime scene, desperate to be noticed, and someone does see her. Deacon Chance is a cop on leave whose life changed when he gained the ability to see spirits. Now, one has invaded his life, and he is okay with that. What he is not okay with is the fact that Jessica is still not safe, even if she is dead. She is the focus of a war between Fallen and Holy angels and the danger just keeps getting thicker as the devil tries to stop a prophecy handed down since Eden from coming true.

***** There is a perfect balance of humor, romance, and chilling action in this fast-paced tale. I loved it all, from Jessica's sarcastic observations, to the talking cat, the the guest appearance by the Archangel Gabriel. The ghost/human soulmates angle was utterly charming and very well explained. I can see a possible series here, and just hope that is not mere wishful thinking. Three cheers to Ms. Morgan. *****

Author: Lauren N Sharman
Title - No Worries

A wrong turn results in Gypsy Cooper finding her direction in life. When she strays onto Rebel McCassey's land, a friendship that turns into love begins. It's that love that could be the key to her salvation when her evil father is released from prison and comes looking for revenge, but her love may also have a salvific benefit in Reb's family.

*** What is lacking in technical execution is compensated for by the heart in this story. Reb's family is unusual, but has a warmth that makes all their flawed natures become treasures. Love proving to be the way to conquer evil is a timeless message, delivered in a winning fashion. ***

Author: Mary Eason
Title - That's What Friends Are For

Ever since meeting his friend Kevin's wife, Sophie, Erik has wanted her for his own, despite the unsavory things Kevin told him about her. The words just don't match what he perceives her to be. Then, Kevin is killed, leaving Sophie emotionally wounded, needy, and alone. Erik steps in, offering her a home and job that she's glad to accept. Over time, their friendship begins to turn to something deeper, but the doubts linger, and not only on his part. Even after they accept the mutual attraction, both Erik and Sophie have a lot of issues with which to deal before anything can be real between them.

*** Erik seems almost too good to be true, except for his nagging mistrust and refusal to simply ask Sophie what is wrong. Of course, many of her actions are equally unfathomable. However, despite this, That's What Friends Are For is a quick, sweet, and pleasant romance. ***

Author: Karen Wiesner
Title - Wayward Angels
(Bk 4 Wounded Warriors series)

Gregg Stevens used to be a rock star. He recorded Christian music with Mission Records's label. He could have any girl he wanted. But soon he lost his music and he stopped singing. Now Gregg has left his wild life behind and accepted God. Gregg operates Wayward Angels, a rehab shelter in Milwaukee for troubled teenage guys. One boy in particular, Diego, is hard to help. Diego looks sickly often, lives on the streets, and is constantly on the run from the law. If the police catch Diego they will return him to his abusive family. Gregg knows he must move slowly with Diego and prove to the boy that he would never betray his trust, but that is hard to do with a teen so wary. In the meantime, Gregg needs to hire a handy man for the shelter. Gregg never expects for a female to apply for the position. Unlike all the other applicants, she can actually fix anything and everything mechanical. Even better, Gregg finds himself falling in love with her. However, she is hiding something big from him and she refuses to open up.

Stormie Knight is bipolar. Any time she admits it to a guy she is dating, he leaves her. Needless-to-say, she does NOT want to tell Gregg for fear he will reject her too. Stormie had only recently gotten out of an abusive relationship that had ended with the guy committing suicide right in front of her. Hours later, the police found Stormie in her wrecked car. Gregg Stevens was playing on her radio.

Stormie is thrilled to get the job at Wayward Angels. Stormie and Gregg begin dating, but she can't bring herself to tell him of her bipolar disorder. Wanting to be "normal" Stormie quits taking her medication. Therefore, she begins acting strangely to Gregg but refuses to explain.

**** Gregg and Stormie's tale is full of problems. Not only with their own relationship, but with Diego's personal problems. There are scenes that will make you laugh, cry, and even feel exasperated. So keep a box of tissues nearby and enjoy this episode of the "Wounded Warriors" saga. It'll tug on your heart strings. ****

Author: Jean de Cherie
Title - The One That Got Away
(A HeatWave Tingle / Erotica)

It is Christmas Break and the college students are out for some much needed down time. Kelly Samuel has always dreamed of being with Randy Taylor. But Randy's eyes are on another.

Disappointed, Kelly goes home. Her roommate, Ter, has company according to the empties lying around. Kelly decides to quietly go to her bedroom and fantasize about Randy. But Kelly is startled when a guy walks in and joins her private party. A guy much better looking than Randy could ever hope to be. A guy who knows how to please.

**** This is a very short erotica story. It will not take you long to read it at all; however, enjoy it you will. About half the story is one long, hot bed scene. No romance here. Just desire. If you want to get your mind off your troubles for a bit, this little story will do the trick. No one under age 17 should read this little one night stand. ****

Author: Ann Durand
Title - A Promise To Keep
(Romantic Suspense)

Karen Hudson's idyllic world is shattered when the young, single father of one of her students whom she is falling for vanishes, taking his daughter with him. In the days following, she learns he is wanted for murder, and now she is suspected of being his accomplice. Her own life wrecked, Karen goes in search of the truth, only to discover it is far more dangerous than she could have ever imagined.

*** Though the pacing is a bit off and the villainess a bit over the top, this story reads like a television murder mystery. The tempo increases towards the end, creating tension to keep one on the edge of your chair, and aside from the suspense, there is a certain heartwarming element that is attractive. ***

Author: Janet Elaine Smith
Title - A Christmas Dream
(Christmas Romance)

Susan Quincey had lost her husband, Mark, in Desert Storm. But Susan still had a part of Mark, in Jeremy. Jeremy is almost four-years-old and is the spitting image of the dad he never knew. The two live in Duluth, Minnesota, far away from any relatives. So they are alone and the weather is icy cold as Christmas draws near. The weather is just one more reason Susan cares nothing for the holiday season.

When her car battery dies after work, her boss, Kevin Dockter, helps charge it up and then follows her home. Soon Kevin finds himself falling in love with Jeremy, as well as, Susan.

***** This one is the PERFECT reading material for those chilly afternoons in early December. Make some hot cocoa, wrap up in a blanket in front of a fire, and read some hours away. This Christmas story will warm your heart and make you believe in miracles. You may want to keep that tissue box handy. There are some very touching moments and the ending is ... well ... perfect. *****

Author: Karen Wiesner
Title: Waiting For An Eclipse
(Wounded Warriors: #2)

Kristina Ingram has been a counselor at Eisner University's Drug Crisis Center for five years. That is also how long she has been in love with Steve Thomas, who has just become "Associate Professor". Steve is very attracted to Kristina as well, but they have kept their distance because Steve is married. Knowing about his wife's drug addiction and her past of being a star in sleazy films, Kristina made sure that Steve knew he could come to her if he ever needed to simply talk.

Steve is at his wit's end! His wife, Jess, has been in bed with every man possible and shooting up drugs almost constantly —- all in front of the kids. The two youngest want away from Jess. The oldest keeps defending Jess, even though she only uses them all.

Steve must now decide if it is better for the children for him to stay with Jess or divorce her. If he chooses divorce, he would be in a battle for custody. If he chooses to stay, Jess's actions could harm the children.

*** This one is fiction for mainly women. It clearly shows the trauma families deal with when one of the parents are addicted to drugs. The characters are well developed, but the plot is slow. Great light reading for a rainy afternoon. ***

Author: Erica DeQuaya
Title: Backstage Affair (Erotica)

Genera "Gen" McCanton had her play stolen before and was determined that history would never repeat itself. Her first off-Broadway production was titled "A Song for Stephanie". She left her Chicago home for a temporary room in Manhattan to help her friend and director, Stephen, with casting and rewrites. When Judith, the silent partner and main backer, all but announced that her brother WAS going to play the male lead, Gen saw red. It did not matter to her that Edward Aldin had experience in front of a camera!

Edward had been in hiding since his fiancée, Tessa, had died in the 9-11 attack. "A Song for Stephanie" was the first thing to catch his interest again. Besides, he owed his sister for helping him when he lost Tessa. If Judith wanted him to star in the play, then he would do it. He never expected the intense desire he felt for Genera or for her coldness toward him.

Genera and Edward's attraction grew, much to Judith's dismay. But they knew that before they could even think about going forward, they would each have to face their past demons and put them to rest.

**** Very well done! Be warned of many hot love scenes. This story is for those of us who hate having the chapter end just as the passion gets hot between the main couple. With both main characters having dark pasts to overcome, the author guarantees a lot of tension and passion for her readers. Recommended! ****

Author: Robin Bayne
Title: Cougar Lake

Colton "Colt" Reece and Tia Fauncini had been in a boating accident years ago. While Tia had been recovering from it and Colt had partial amnesia, Cami (Tia's sister) had stepped in and made Colt believe he was romantically involved with her instead of with Tia. Unable to be sure whether it was Cami or Tia that was lying, Colt went with Cami since she was the one who was always nearby at the hospital. Hurt, Tia backed off - and away from them both.

Colt's grandmother had left him "The Cougar & Cardinal Inn" where he, Tia, and Cami had grown up. Only moments before the auction was to begin for the inn, Colt decided to keep it. His problem was money. There were back taxes, inheritance taxes, remodeling - the list was long. Tia solved the problem. Tia gave all the needed money and became his live-in partner.

Both of them loved the inn and wanted to make it flourish anew. Yet the past kept getting in their way. Tia never lost her love for Colt, but refused to set herself up for heartache all over again. Now if only Cami would quit calling!

**** Sheer delight! The author has succeeded in making the main AND the co-characters all have their own personalities. They are easy to care for and very well developed. WONDERFUL! ****

Author: Anne Carter
Title: A Hero's Promise

Dane has loved Jessica for years, but years ago forsook that love. They each married other people, and although his marriage fell apart, Jessica's was a happy one, until death intervened in a horrific accident that left her a widow with a young son. Despite her grief, Jessica is able to open her heart to another, longing to adopt her orphaned nephew. However, as an actress, she has a somewhat damaged reputation, that is not helped by her being a single parent or associating with known bad boy Dane. At first, she dismisses both of Dane's helpful suggestions, that she either renounce him, or marry him.

The second idea won't leave her mind though, and eventually, she gives in to the suggestion of a convenient marriage. This works well for Dane, giving him not only the woman he loves, but a caring step mother for his children who suffer at the hands of their cold, callous mother. Can the two overcome all the things that stand between them, such as Hollywood, grief, and misunderstandings?

***** In this tender and touching story that peels away the veneer of Hollywood to show love is there for you, no matter what. Dane is the consumate hero, flawed, yes, but with the kind of heart that braves the toughest obstacles. Jessica's caring is extraordinary. In her sorrow, she is able to look beyond her own pain and put others needs beyond her own. This charming book is so very moving and hopeful that if you have just watched the bleak news or read the depressing things in the paper, you should read A Hero's Promise. It will revive your joy. *****

Author: Karen Wiesner
Title - Falling Star (Angelfire Trilogy, Book 1)

Nate Jovanovich was a man of God who had broke the heart of young Aurora "Rori" Mason by marrying her rival, Jenna. Deeply hurt, Rori ran off with Brett Foxx, the town bad boy. Years pass...

Nate is a widow with a young daughter, Andrea. When he sees Rori again the passion still sizzles between them. However, Rori's life has gone down hill. Brett had been very abusive to her. When Rori finally left Brett, she took the only job that allowed her to make and save money quickly so she could go back to school. She was a stripper! Could they still have a chance at happiness?

***** This is certainly a different type of hero and heroine! I wondered how the author could get together a preacher and a stripper. Well, she succeeded! Rori may have started off her life badly, but she became someone that I proudly cheered on to victory. Brava, Karen Wiesner! *****

Author: Karen Wiesner
Title - Reluctant Hearts (Wounded Warrior Series, Book 1)

Wendy Thomas knew how to take care of herself, as well as everyone else. At the tender age of seven, her parents took her to the airport so she could find her own way to a Broadway show and back. Her parents never worried about her, even if she disappeared for days. They believed Wendy could do no wrong. Wendy grew up to be pretty, caring, with high grades, and about to go to college.

Paul Randall was the ultimate bad boy. Even the gangs steered clear of him. Wendy and Paul found themselves deeply attracted to each other. Against his will, Paul fell in love with her. However, he knew he had to let her go or she would give up all her dreams for him. Problem was that Wendy did not want to be let go. Paul would have to hurt her, badly, for her own good.

**** Wendy is a bit hard to believe, but she and Paul suit each other well. This book targets those who do not want danger in their stories, just pure romance! Wonderful light reading! ****

Barri Bryan: title - Imperfect Paradise

Recently widowed, Zoe Martin was a middle school English teacher. Her husband died of Leukemia and Zoe needed an income during the summer months. Multi-billionaire Holt Hamilton's job offer seemed too good to be true! Zoe was to move onto his ranch for twelve weeks to help sort through articles and family treasures so a biography could be written about Holt's deceased wife, Sarah. Sarah had been an actress, well known, but not with a nice reputation.

Clinton McCann was Holt's attorney, as well as, Holt's illegitimate son. Also in residence was Maggie, Clinton's sister. Clinton hated Zoe immediately! Holt had told Clinton he was going to marry Zoe, without mentioning it to Zoe beforehand. Therefore, Clinton saw Zoe as a fortune hunter. No one believed Zoe's innocense and she was unable to simply leave due to the contract she had signed.

Zoe had fallen into a house of lies and deceits. With all his blackmailing ammo, Holt was a puppet master and everyone, including Zoe, must dance to his tune!

***** This one is like a Romance, Modern Contemporary, and a Gothic in one! The team of Barri Bryan seems to get better with every book they publish! I cannot stress to everyone enough of the incredible talent within these pages! I could not read quickly enough! Highly recommended! I eagerly look forward to the next release by this author! *****

Kathleen Culligan Techler: title - Barriers

Set in Florida. Marya was residing in the home on Sea Grape Key that her parents had left to Marya and her sister, Penelope. Sea Grape Key was isolated from the mainland. To reach it, you either must own a boat or use the ferry. Residents loved the isolation. The beaches were not crowded by tourists and crime was rare. Marya intended to remain on the island once she finished going through her parents' things. Before his death, her father begged Marya to search the house and locate a secret hidden there before Penelope found it. The secret could hurt Penelope terribly.

Penelope was a model who preferred the city. She flew down between shoots to be with her fiancé, Drew. Drew was planning to open a contracting business on the island. He planned a bridge to connect the island and the mainland, to build several homes, and drastically increase tourism. He simply could not, or refused, to understand why Marya and the other residents were against all of it!

Marya and Drew clashed horribly, yet were physically attracted to each other. They could not avoid each other since Drew dated Penelope and Marya was the home care physical therapist for Drew's uncle.

** Marya and Uncle Walt were very well written! I could not help but love everything about them. However, in my personal opinion, nothing else about this story appealed to me. Drew seemed to think his uncle was worthless and could do nothing by himself. He also seemed to believe everyone should agree with all his plans and have no opinions on anything. Penelope's character was not believable to me. She never seemed to have a real thought in her head. No one could seem to please her and she constantly whined.

Again, this is all my own personal opinion. I just cannot think of any type of audience to recommend this story to. I kept wishing that Marya would find someone better than Drew. **

Joanie MacNeil: title - Trouble Or Nothing

Set in Canberra, Australia, present date. Forty year old Natalie Harrigan had just landed the coveted position of CEO of the recently established Training Advisory Council. Being female, the Board was keeping a sharp eye on her. Since bubble baths and wonderful music relax her, Natalie had a Walkman with headphones on as she rested in the tub, mentally preparing herself for the following work day. The last thing she expected was for a naked man to slam open her bathroom door!

Twenty-eight year old Luke DeMarco had basically grown up with his best friend Jack Harrigan. Jack's older sister, Natalie, had been his dream girl his entire life. Since neither Natalie, nor Jack much used their place, he used his spare key to let himself in and make himself at home. He had landed a new position as Director of Public Relations and intended to get a good night sleep before his first day on the job! But finding Natalie nude in the tub was quite a surprise!

Natalie and Luke had twelve years difference in age. That bothered Nat, but not Luke. He was determined to make her see he was not a little boy anymore and definitely did not see her as too old for him. Until he found his own place, he could use their time at work and at home to make her see how much he loved her.

**** A delightful romance that will please all its readers! Joanie MacNeil has taken a modern day situation and turned it into an enjoyable reading sensation! I loved every minute I spent reading this one! Recommended! ****

Lyn Lawrence: title - Magnolia House

Lucinda 'Cindi' Lynn has come to the Magnolia House to rest and recover. Her mother had just passed away after battling cancer and Cindi recently had surgery on her vocal cords. She has come to this house with mixed feelings, because the house belongs to the mistress of her father, a woman Cindi has never met and isn't really sure she wants to. Consuelo, her fathers' mistress, left for South America before Cindi arrived, to search for Cindi's father, who disappeared two months ago and is feared dead.

The Magnolia House isn't quite as peaceful as it seems to be. The house is supposed to be haunted and when strange things begin happening, Cindi starts to believe it is. But when the caretaker overhears a conversation between her fathers' lawyer and the cook, things begin to make sense. One thing is for sure, someone is trying to either scare Cindi into leaving, or they are more than willing to kill her to get her out of the way. But who is behind everything? Who can she trust?

**** Excellent! Author Lyn Lawrence has done a wonderful job of capturing the mystery and magic of Louisiana and blending it beautifully into a fascinating story. MAGNOLIA HOUSE gives you suspense and mystery, love and suffering and learning how to live again. It is quick reading and makes for a delightful book to wrap the day up with. This reviewer looks forward to seeing more work from Ms. Lawrence. ****

Pat Snellgrove: title - Model In Flight

Wendy Nyberg was a successful model in New Zealand known as Willow. The professional name helped keep her private life just that, private! Her parents were well known public figures and, to be blunt, SNOBS! Her brother, Damien, was in love with a woman that their parents believed to be below his class. The family was in a major rift! And Willow was falling for a man that could destroy her life as she knew it!

Taj Holland flew helicopters for The Search and Rescue Service. His private life was not much better than Willow's. The difference, however, was that Taj did what he liked and did not care what other's thought! (His father constantly nagged Taj to enter the Diplomatic service, with no success.) It took a lot, but he finally got Willow to agree to go out with him.

The attraction between the couple was strong. They had more in common than they thought. But their families would try to snap the thin thread of love the two had connected between them. Time for everyone to learn that their love was stronger than prejudice!

*** Great story line and plenty of obstacles to keep it all interesting! I found a few typos, but that is seen in most books. Flows smoothly and will easily keep the attention of its readers! Recommended! ***

Rita Hestand: title - Pretend Mom

Dixie Kincaid was a rock star on the top of the charts. After living in New York for seven years, she was called home y her step-mother, Emily. Everyone thought she had come home because of her father's will or to wreck Kevin's marriage, or for some other scandal. However, Dixie ignored the mean gossipers and only wanted a vacation from work. She wanted to see her family and find out what Emily needed.

Mike Dalton ran a nearby ranch. His wife had died three years ago. He took care of the ranch and his beloved four year old daughter, Amanda. The gossips expected Mike to marry the town beauty, Janet. But Amanda had her own thoughts about Janet. No, Amanda wanted Dixie, if only as a pretend mom until Dixie had to return to New York.

***** A sweet story of two people who separated and were later brought back together for a second chance to know each other. I never stopped reading it until it ended. Amanda just stole my heart. Yes, I will gladly recommend this one to all! *****

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