Little Friends
All Of Me
by, Patricia Ryan
January, 2000
Harlequin Temptation
Contemporary Series Rom.
ISBN: 0-373-25864-X
3 1/2 Hearts
When twenty-two year old Nora Armstrong moves from Ohio to New York to start her own jewelry making business, on her first day in the city her cousin Harlan, an up-and-coming party planner talks her into being “arm candy” for David Waite, a devastatingly handsome, wealthy Brit that is one of the top fund-raisers in Manhattan with lots of power. And Harlan just happens to owe a favor to.
Having once been burned by Helena when she duped him after using his social status to climb to the top of her business has vowed to never get involved in a relationship again. David now opts for model-type beauties to adorn his arm and attend social functions with...never in his mind dreaming that someone like Nora would come along and turn his world upside-down.
This is a great book...which was a lot of fun to read. It is very sensual and will have readers fanning themselves with the open pages as they follow David and Nora on their fun-filled adventure. If you only read one category romance this year, make it All Of Me! -Abigale Armande
The Duke & I
by, Julia Quinn
January, 2000
Avon Books
ISBN: 0-380-80082-9
European Historical Romance
4 Hearts
When the new Duke of Hasting’s Simon Bassett returns to England after a long six year absence, he is overwhelmed by onslaught mother’s of marriageable daughters. Simon has no intentions of marrying due to bitterness and age-old scars he’s carried with him since childhood. However, with a little help from Daphne Bridgerton (who only wishes to marry for love), the two concoct a plan to pretend to be courting. With this, Simon will way-lay all would-be brides and Daphne’s hope is that Simon’s attention will make her seem more attractive to other would-be suitors.
The couple find themselves in each others company and growing more fond of one another each day. If However, Simon’s instistance to stay a bachlor and Daphne’s lack of knowledge into his past works against them. But in the end, the couple fall in love and work together to slay Simon’s demons and live happily ever after.
The way The Duke & I is set up, it is obvious that this is the first of a trilogy featuring the Bridgerton siblings and their wonderful adventures...with each of Daphne’s brother’s to follow.
There is a “sweetness,” and innocence about Daphne that make her a truly endearing character. Readers will feel such empathy for Simon as he deals with the demons that haunt his past as well as the inner struggle with his ever-growing feelings for the lovely Daphne. I thoroughly enjoyed this regency romp and highly recommend it to anyone who likes happily-ever-after “cinderella” stories. Julia Quinn does a superb job of bringing a by-gone era to life with her detailed description of the life of the “ton” and all it entails.
-G. D. Triplett
The Least Likely Bride
by, Jane Feather
Bantam Books
(Bride Trilogy)
February, 2000
ISBN: 0553801520
Hardcover $15.99
4 Hearts
Olivia Granville is more than a little reserved, but along with her love of books and Greek literature, uses this outlet to set her mind free. Born the daughter of Cato, Marquis of Granville, the artistocratic young girl finds herself strolling along a path next to the cliffs when with one wrong step, slips off and drops into the sea.
When Olivia awakens she finds herself onboard a ship, the Wind Dancer, whose owner Anthony Carton has rescued her. While on the Wind Dancer Oliva discovers a whole new life full of adventures outside of those read about in her books. Only this time they are real, taking place on the open sea, in the arms of a ruggedly handsome man--her soulmate. However, while aboard the ship, an evil memory resurfaces and Olivia doesn’t feel she is able to confide in Anthony. To make matters worse, once she returns home, Olivia tries desperately to forget about her adventures on the open sea and the man who unlocked her heart.
Anthony’s involvement in a plot regarding the King who is being held in a royal prison, it’s Olivia who comes through, risking her own life to save him.
Jane Feather’s current book in the Bride Trilogy gives readers a second glimpse at some of our favorite characters from previous books, bringing together Anthony and Oliva in The Least Likely Bride. Ms. Feather never fails to deliver a finely crafter historical romance full of intrigue, passion and love; bringing the era of the times to life in vivid full-color detail. This book is a “must” have for anyone seeking a senual “escape.”
-Abigale Armande
Silk And Steel
by, Kat Martin
St. Martin’s Press
February, 2000
Regency Romance
ISBN:0312972814
$6.99
3 Hearts
When Lady Kathryn Grayson escapes from an asylum where her monstrous and greedy uncle had her locked up due to her “unnatural” interest in medicine, she finds herself being taken in by Lucien Raphael Montaine, the fifth Marquis of Linchfield.
When Raphael finds himself drawn into a dangerous scheme in order to help the frightened Kathryn, little does he know exactly how far he will go to save her. Although he is drawn to the beautiful, brave, intelligent young woman, he soon finds himself caught in a compromising position with Kathryn (a plan she concocted on her own) and having to marry her. But the sacrifice is small, as he realizes his love for the free-spirited Kathryn. Kathryn’s goal is to continue her studies in medicine, but Lucien has other ideas and soon this causes much trouble for the newlyweds.
When Kathryn’s unladylike choice of careers drives the couple apart, both are forced to re-evaluate their priorities and a possible life together.
Silk And Steel is an entertaining romantic intrigue set in the regency period where men are men and women should be quiet unless spoken to. Ms. Martin explores the idea that “oh-my-gosh,” a female of that era might actually have a brain and be intelligent enough to go to school and have a career.
Readers will find Kat Martin’s latest novel to be a very enjoyable tale featuring a strong minded heroine that we can all relate to. -G.D. Triplett
Thunder Heart
by, Cassie Edwards
January, 2000
ISBN: 0451198689
Native American
$6.99
4 Hearts
Dede Martin thought that she and her young son had found the one man that could take care of and protect them when they met Bill. However, Dede soon learns that the man she trusts is not what he seems when she discovers that Bill is involved in a brutal attack on a peaceful Indian village.
Thunder Heart did what he thought to be right when he led his tribe from their homeland in the Black Hills to an Indian reservation in Missouri due to the white man’s law. But Thunder Heart realizes he’d put too much trust in the white man’s word when his peace loving people are attacked by hate-filled men like Bill.
Vulnerable Dede is filled with guilt and longs to help Thunder Heart and his people, but soon finds herself a pawn in Thunder Heart’s plan for revenge and takes both Dede and her son Johnny hostage. Although she should be afraid of her current situation, Dede sees through Thunder Heart’s gruff exterior, into his kind heart. It doesn’t take Dede long to realize that Thunder Heart is the kind of man she’s always wanted...kind, strong, gentle, smart and full of honor.
Together, Dede and Thunder Heart work to find a way to bring peace, security and love for his people and themselves.
Cassie Edwards never fails to bring the language, culture and customs of Native Americans to life in her brilliant romance novels. The latest installment in Ms. Edwards’ Signet Indian series tells the tale of a heart-warming love of a Ponca chief Thunder Heart and a the endearing heroine Dede Martin--this is a story that stayed with me, rolling through my mind long after the book was closed. Thunder Heart is a truly awe-inspiring tale. -Marti Witherspoon
Dearest Max
by, Barbara Miller
Sonnet Books
ISBN 0671774522
February, 2000
Regency $6.50
3 1/2 Hearts
Lady Veronica Strake finds herself left alone to manage Byerly, her families bankrupt estate, along with a house full of greedy money-hungry relatives when her beloved father loses his life to a mysterious death. Then a new twist of fate brings Veronica’s childhood friend, Max back into her life again.
Gone is the little boy who once shared Veronica’s childhood dream and mischievous escapades, now replaced by a viral, handsome, and completely grown up version of Max.
Although distant cousins, Veronica has always felt an attraction to and a loving bond with Max. Now, more than ever. However, when Veronica learns that Max is already engaged, she feels lost and longs to flee. But somehow Max manages to convince Veronica to stay and together the duo work at uncovering the mystery behind her father’s death and the where-abouts of the treasure he’d been pursuing.
During their adventures Max and Veronica realize that they can no longer deny their feelings for one another and give in to their feelings....but do they live happily ever after? Read the book...you’ll not be disappointed!
Barbara Miller has penned a fun-filled adventurous Regency romp that will leave readers begging for the next book from this talented author. Dearest Max is an intriguing and charming tale that readers will want to read again, and again and yes, maybe again!
-Karen Goodman
Acts Of Honor
by, Vicki Hinze
St. Martin’s Press
ISBN: Currently Unknown
January, 2000
Romantic Suspense
(Contemporary, Present Day)
$5.99
5 Hearts (Highest Rating)
Because of the mystery that surrounded the supposed suicide of her brother-in-law Captain David Quade, psychiatrist, Sara West has refused to let the matter drop, determined to uncover the mystery she senses lies purposely hidden. Sara is driven to do this for her sister and niece, even though it puts her in constant contact with Air Force Colonel Jack Foster.
When Colonel Foster appears in Sara’s office with a proposition, Sara is more than a little surprised, but accepts the very sensitive and dangerous job offered to her within the military. While there Sara will uncover the truth surrounding David’s death. A psychiatrist whose specialty training is in treating Post Traumatic Stress Disorders, Sara is assigned to go under cover at the top secret Braxton mental facility. While there, she is to be assigned five anonymous patients, one of which is a top level clearance agent who mysteriously disappeared while on assignment, and later found at the Braxton facility.
Sara’s job is to discover if the man’s mind can be salvaged. If she finds that it can’t be salvaged, then the man will be “canceled” to protect national security, as the information stored in his head can never be released to the public.
The more time Sara spends at Braxton, she begins noticing that a number of strange occurrences take place at the top secret facility. For one thing, she discovers that the doctors and staff, along with all the patients never leave the hospital...ever. Feeling that there is more to Braxton than is on the surface, Sara works diligently with her patient to unravel the mystery to his mental state. When his mental stability returns and his awareness becomes more apparent, both Sara and her patient find themselves racing to beat the clock before someone decides to eliminate both of them before the mystery is solved.
This was the first book by Vicki Hinze that I’ve ever had the pleasure to read, and I have to tell you, I have never enjoyed a book more or found a book that difficult to put down. Acts Of Honor is truly the “best” book I’ve read in a long time. This suspense filled story kept me on the edge of my seat and totally enthralled from the first page to the last. I’d love to see this made into a “movie of the week” or motion picture....it’s really that good! Kudos to Ms. Hinze for her stunning new release!
-Brenda K. Johnson
Her Only Hero
by, Jo Ann Ferguson
Zebra Books
ISBN: Currently Unknown
February, 2000
Historical Romance
(Nicaragua, 1800’s)
$5.99
4 Hearts
When Arielle Gardiner receives a tattered and torn up letter from her Fiance, Caleb, she immediately sets out for Nicaragua to find him.
When searching for a ship to take her to Nicaragua from Boston, Arielle can find only one ship that is sailing to Central America....the Lady Song. However, the Lady Song’s captain, Stephen Lightenfield does not want Arielle on board his ship. But little does he know until it is too late that his first mate has allowed Arielle to secure passage on his ship.
Once the ship is on its way, the adventures begin, and it’s Arielle that has to keep reminding herself that she has a fiancé as she finds herself incredibly attracted to the handsome captain. Stephen is as equally attracted to Arielle and even though he keeps telling Arielle that he is far from “hero” material, his actions speak much louder than his words as he finds himself continually rescuing the lovely Arielle.
When they dock in Nicaragua they can find no sign of or word from Caleb. Arielle feels in her heart that Caleb is in trouble and needs her help. Yet Stephen feels responsible for having brought her to Nicaragua and will not allow her to travel alone. Together Stephen and Arielle travel through the jungles and give in to their feelings for one another. With erupting volcanoes, treacherous rivers and uncharted territory will the couple survive the adventure and return home to live happily ever after? Buy the book....you’ll be glad you did!
Jo Ann Ferguson is an astounding writer who never fails to gift her fans with adventurous action-packed novels of love, suspense and fun that readers will savor. Her Only Hero is one of her best works to date.
-Connie Stamych
The Rogue
“Knights of the Black Rose Series”
by, Ana Seymour
Harlequin Historicals
ISBN: 373290993
(Medieval Romance)
February, 2000
$4.99
3 Hearts
When Nicholas Hendry returns to his homeland, safe from the Crusades, he swore to himself and others that he would no longer pursue each and every comely wench in the shire. But his declarations do not hold true for long when he encounters Beatrice Thibault, the innkeeper’s daughter...an independent young lady with no time for romance, and most especially not Nicholas Hendry.
Beatrice knew of Nicholas--his reputation preceded him. And if she had her way, the womanizing Nicholas would never learn of the young son he had sired. Knight, or not, Beatrice would not allow herself to succumb to his warm smile, charming personality and most especially the love she saw shimmering in his eyes.
The latest installment in the series, The Rogue by Ana Seymore is medieval romance at its best. The Rogue is full of everything we readers have come to expect from our medieval romps--knights, honor, and all the heraldry we love.
-Marti Witherspoon
Soft Focus
by, Jane Ann Krentz
Putnum
ISBN: 0399145788
January, 2000
(Contemporary Romance)
Hardcopy $23.95
4 1/2 Hearts
When consultant Jack Fairfax attempts to get a small family company Excailbur on its feet, he concentrates his efforts on Soft Focus, a crystal that just may be the next “leap” for computer technology. In an attempt to fund the project, Jack applies for a funding grant from the Aurora Fund, which is a company ran by Elizabeth Abbot, who puts his request through.
Instantly attracted to one another, Jack and Elizabeth find themselves in bed sharing more than a business proposal. However, after allowing herself a night of love-making with Jack, Elizabeth learns that Jack was part of the Galloway takeover that helped ruin a close friend. Although she would love nothing more than to back out of their current business deal, her signature on the contract is binding. and for the remaining six months, the couple keep their distance and their relationship strictly platonic and on a business level.
However, the couple once again find themselves thrown together in a business deal when someone steals the crystal and the designer disappears, too. Together Jack and Elizabeth travel to a small film festival thinking the thief will be there because of the movie he made that is currently showing there. Together, once again they become lovers now on the run from assailants who want the crystal for themselves.
Known for her best-selling romantic intrigue novels, Jane Ann Krentz brings to life her latest action packed story Soft Focus, giving readers the same high quality work she is known for. If you enjoy a fast paced story line with just the right amount of sexual tension and top-notch characters, then Soft Focus if the right book for you.
-Brenda K. Johnson
A Matter Of Trust
by, Deb Stober
Zebra Books
ISBN: 0821764608
(Contemporary Romance)
January, 2000
$3.99
4 Hearts
It has been ten years since Taylor Bowen left Digby, Colorado. Right before leaving Digby ten years ago, her best friend Sue Ryan had accused the man she loved, Gordon Lane of getting her pregnant. Feeling betrayed and broken hearted, Taylor left, ignoring Gordon as he pleaded his innocence.
Now, ten years later, Taylor returns to the town to pay back the townspeople who helped get her on her feet and fund her medical education. Taylor’s goal is to practice medicine for three years, attempting to stay as far away from Sue and Gordon as possible. However, her plans fall to the side when she catches the handsome Gordon skinny-dipping, then learns from the mayor that her facility is not ready for business and insurance accepts the veterinary clinic as the only sterile place in town to practice. To make matters worse, the vet is Gordan and his assistant is Sue. And for several weeks, Taylor must share a medical facility with the two people in life she’d most like to avoid, yet still loves.
Gordon also loves Taylor...in fact, he’s never stopped. But he has a difficult time forgetting the lack of trust in him she displayed when she left town, leaving him behind. Sue, also cares for her the friend she betrayed and her guilt drives her to bring the couple back together.
Deb Stover is a favorite author of mine and does not disappoint with her latest tale, A Matter of Trust, which is a story of second chances, betrayal, forgiveness and love. Ms. Stover starts the new year off the right way with another pleasurable tale. It’s stories like A Matter Of Trust that have made this talented lady one of the best subgenre romance authors of our time.
-Brenda K. Johnson
Cinnamon & Roses
by, Heidi Betts
Leisure Love Spell
ISBN: 0843946687
(Historical Romance)
Western
$4.99
4 Hearts
Born fatherless in a brothel, seamstress Rebecca knows how to judge men, and she is more than aware that being attracted to the handsome, wealthy Caleb Adams is trouble. Caleb is renowned for his scandalous flings with fancy big city women he casually uses then casts to the wayside when he’s finished with them.
Caleb finds himself as attracted to Rebecca as she is to him, but can’t for the life of him understand why. Used to the attentions of beautiful women dressed in fine silk, addicted to the “finer” things in life, Rebecca is the total opposite dressed in calico and making her way in the small Kansas cowtown as a seamstress.
Rebecca is in awe of Caleb and unable to resist his charms, even knowing that the result might be another fatherless baby. Caleb, too is worried about losing his heart to a woman, especially the down to earth sweet Rebecca, but is unable to resist the charming seamstress and is willing to risk his heart for just one taste of her lips.....no matter what it costs him.
Heidi Betts has written an entertaining historical romance that will sweep readers off their feet. Cinnamon and Roses will leave a smile on your face and a warm spot in your heart. Cheers to an author whose work I look forward to reading in the very near future.
-Connie Stamych
Donovan’s Bed
by, Debra Mullins
Avon Books
ISBN: Currently Unknown
(Historical Romance)
Western 1880’s
February, 2000
$5.99
3 1/2 Hearts
Working as the Burr County’s only newspaper editor, Sarah Calhoun finds herself far too curious for her own good when a massive bed is seen rolling through town. Justifying her curiosity with her position with the newspaper, Sarah decides to learn as much as she can....about the bed and its handsome owner, Jack Donovan.
Having spent three difficult years making up for a past mistake, Sarah finally earned the respect of the townspeople. Knowing her fragile reputation, Sarah is more than aware that the last thing she needs is a with Donovan and his infamous bed.
Apparently wealthy, Donovan is now looking to add a wife to his life...and his bed. When Donovan resists Sarah’s good intentions, she decides to make him pay by advertising his secret search for a wife in her newspaper. Now every eligible female in the county is looking for Jack, but Donovan only wants Sarah. But will his secret past cost him the one woman he loves and his future, too?
Donovan’s Bed is a funny story with a fast-paced story line, well written characters and more than enough humorous antics to keep readers laughing out loud. Debra Mullins has penned a heartwarming historical novel that is highly recommended to anyone looking for a “feel-good” romance -Karen Goodman
Prince Charming
(Third in a trilogy)
by, Gaelen Foley
Ivy Books
February, 2000
ISBN: 0449006352
(Historical Romance)
European 1816 $6.50
3 Hearts
This is the third installment in Gaelen Foley’s historical romance trilogy set on the make-believe island nation of Ascension.
When Prince Rafael de Fiore is attacked by the Masked Rider - which his kingdom’s version of “Robin Hood,” he vows revenge and even fires a shot at the robber and injures him. After Prince Rafi and his coterie track the Rider’s gang into the woods to a disheveled estate, he finds his current plans for revenge temporarily thwarted.
Though the Rider escaped, Prince Rafi finds the mistress of the estate, Lady Daniela Chiaramonte quite enchanting and intelligent, but later discovers that the Masked Rider is really Lady Daniela. Although he knows he should do what’s right and that is that honor demands her death. Warring with his emotions Prince Rafi decides to choose Lady Dani over the other five women picked out by his parents of wed.
During all of this there is also someone in the king’s court who would like to see Rafi dead. Although this story is set in a fictitious kingdom, the author has brought this imaginary kingdom and people to life which come across so much more vibrant and “real” in comparison to many historical romances written by authors using actual historical settings as backdrops.
If you’re looking for a complex hero and an independent heroine with enough political entanglements and intrigues, then Prince Charming is the book for you. Ms. Foley has outdone herself with her third installment in the series that started with the Pirate Prince and The Princess.
I thoroughly enjoyed this historical intrigue. I found Ms. Foley’s writing style very reminiscent to Virginia Henley--one of my favorite authors.
-Marti Witherspoon
