November/December, 1999 (Issue No. 4)

The Soul Collector by, Kathleen Kane October, 1999 Zebra Books ISBN: 0312973322 3 Hearts (Historical Fantasy)

After a rather uninspired beginning, the story picked up and actually had me in tears at the end. I just wish the whole story had been that moving. This book is a historical fantasy that starts in Nevada in 1875. The hero is Zacariah, a six hundred year old collector of souls. Only he has once again neglected to arrive on time and the soul he was supposed to collect, that of a young baby, has managed to stay with the miraculous recovery of the child. So Zacariah finds himself in trouble with the Minions, his superiors in Heaven.

Now Zacariah really has no empathy for humans, nor any understanding of why they so fight death when he feels it is so much preferable to walk on the Path than to live on earth. So the Minions decide that his punishment will be to spend one month on earth as a human so that he can learn compassion and empathy. He is required to come to earth as a human and to return in one month with the collection of a soul. Two weeks later in Colorado, Zacariah finds himself walking toward the ranch of a widow, Rebecca, who is trying to keep the ranch going with the help of only a couple of cowboys and her young son, Danny. This is where the plot bothers me. Although there is never any explanation of where soul collectors come from, they have obviously never been human. Zack doesn't know what to do with his body, he is shocked by rain and cold and pain. He comes up with a rather lame excuse as to why he is walking and can't remember anything. He has no clue how to use tools or do any kind of work. He eventually learns to do these things, but of course, Rebecca and her ranch hands are very suspicious of him. At one point, Rebecca takes him into town with her, and an old dog, which usually loves everyone, takes an instant dislike to Zack (of course the dog sees him as the Angel of Death). But Zack never has the same problem with horses and I've always considered them as intuitive as dogs.

This part of the book was somewhat boring and I began to lose interest in the story, but decided to persevere. Now Rebecca is having problems with horse thieves stealing her horses and once the action on this problem starts up (about the middle of the book), the story picks up speed and interest. There is also a relationship developing between Zack and the young boy Danny, as well as between Zack and Rebecca. From about the middle of the book on, I had no problem staying with the story and was in tears by the end of the book.

The story had a great ending. If you pick this one up, it is worth reading and makes some very good points about how precious life is and how death can be something not to fear. The book cover indicates that the story has been made into a CBS-TV movie and I think it could be a good one. So even though I wish the first half of the plot could have been a little better laid out, I recommend this book. The second half of the book and the ending is well worth reading.

-Karen King

Loyalty In Death by, J.D. Robb (a.k.a Nora Roberts) October, 1999 ISBN: 042517140X 5 Hearts(Romantic Suspense)

Once again Ms. Roberts (writing as J. D. Robb) has produced another winner with Loyalty in Death, her ninth full length novel in the In Death series. I was never very interested in reading futuristic novels until Ms. Roberts came out with Naked in Death. Of course, I was willing to read anything by Nora Roberts and I am a BIG fan of romantic suspense/murder mysteries. What I discovered in that first book of the series was a powerful story of two people with very different kinds of lives - a high powered, extremely wealthy man who had gained much of his early wealth illegally and a straight shooting, by-the-book female police lieutenant who was investigating him as a possible suspect in a murder.

Roarke and Eve Dallas came together like two magnets to the surprise of them both and the story developed from there. Each consistent book has stood on its own as a great murder mystery, but the development of the relationship between Roarke and Eve is what makes the series an absolute keeper and keeps you anticipating the next novel.

In Loyalty in Death, Eve is once again up against a powerful evil mind who plans to extort tremendous amounts of money from society and then kill and destroy just for the fun of it. She is racing against time to save the people and the landmarks of her city and to put together the pieces of the puzzle in time to learn the identity of the person sending her the taunting letters and demands for money.

When a violent explosion in Madison Square Garden kills a coworker and good friend and Eve finds that more of her friends have been drawn into this web of evil, she finds she will use any help available to stop the destruction. The story is suspenseful and explosive and the love and trust between Roarke and Eve deepens. This is definitely a keeper. Roarke and Eve Dallas are two of the most wonderful characters I've ever met in books, and their friends and coworkers are certainly colorful and entertaining. Do yourself a favor and read the whole series. You will be anticipating each new novel as much as I am!

-Karen King

My Lord Destiny by, Eve Byron Avon Books November, 1999 ISBN:0380803658 4 Hearts Historical Rom. (Curses/Legends)

When Gavin, Earl of St. Alden allows Mr. William Whitmore to search the burial mounds surrounding his castle, he finds his normal existence shattered. Gavin’s headstrong, independent sister, Gwyneth feels their are cursed and tells her sibling that “the book” has been found and also of the attack on William and Gavin then finds himself accompanying both Gwyneth and William to London to the residence of William’s sister, Pricsilla.

Although Gavin feels Pricsilla to be as headstrong and eccentric as Gwyneth, this doesn’t keep him from pursuing his interest, thus the result being that the unlikely couple fall in love. During this time, though “the book” turns up missing which at this point puts everyone back in danger; leaving Gavin to not only fight against the age-old memories and pain of his past to save his sister, William and the woman who holds the key to his once hardened heart.

My Lord Destiny is a fun, humorous and lovable story featuring several interesting characters readers will grow to love. This magical story has a little something for any reader...legends, magic, curses...and a historical love story which is “destined” to weave its way into readers hearts. Cheers to Eve Byron for her latest “keeper!”

-Connie Stamych

When the countdown to midnight begins three couples find themselves facing not only a new millennium and a mere change in the dates of the calendar, they find some magic come to life via three fun-filled romantic shorts! In A Little Bit of Magic, a baby doll is changed into a real life infant, which leaves the unexpected mother; Samantha to rely on the handsome...and eligible bachelor neighbor to come to the rescue with his nursery know-how and his seductive smile...both of which weave a spell around Samantha’s heart.

In The Confused Stork, by Eugenia Riley, finds the disoriented baby deliverer lost and dropping infants off with the wrong set of parents. When the silly stork delivers Emma Fairchild’s baby to Victorian England, landing in the arms of a dashing earl, Emma finds not only her missing bundle of joy, but a man handsome and doting man to share her love and child with.

In Blame It On The Baby, things get considerably more confusing when Tori and her husband change places....literally, to gain a better understanding of one another and their daily plights in life dictated by their gender. However, it’s the “miracle of life” and the odd circumstances surrounding it that brings this couple closer together, showing each of them where their hearts have always been.

As is always the case, Leisure Books has gifted readers with a holiday treat, featuring several mini romances that are sure to delight, enthrall and help readers ring in the new year with a smile on their face! New Year’s Babies would be a great addition to any romance reader’s stocking this season.

-Marti Witherspoon

The Baron by, Juliana Garnet Bantam Books December, 1999 ISBN: 0553576283 4 Hearts

In the year 1213 when King John takes over control of the land and estates owned by the Baron of Brayeton, Tre Devaux, and offers the Baron the chance to “prove” his loyalty by becoming the Sheriff of Nottingham and upholding the laws that Tre despises by doing away with the Saxon gang of outlaws. Rather than waiting at Windsor Castle for the Council of Barons to rule, Tre accepts John’s offer...even though he knows better, as he fears he would be killed if he didn’t

Tre is a driven man...obsessed to regain everything dear to him that he lost. When Lady Jane Neville, a widow and the niece of Robin Hood pleads with him to handle the locals with a bit more care, he finds himself unable to do so and instead pushes to enforce John’s horrible laws. Although she knows it will only cause her more heartache and trouble, Jane changes her mind and decides to assist the outlaws. In doing so, both Jane and Try find themselves falling in love. Even though their love seams to be an impossible one, love always finds a way....especially in the magical realm of Sherwood Forest.

The Baron is a delightful re-telling of the medieval romance Robin Hood, giving readers an interesting new twist on an age-old tale. Juliana Garnett is carving a name for herself with this outstanding story. Readers who love both a good medieval romp and anything to do with Robin Hood and his band of “merry men” will relish in this imaginative tale.

-Brenda K. Johnson

A Matter Of Trust by, Deb Stover Zebra Books January 2000 ISBN: 0821764608 4 1/2 Hearts (Contemporary Romance)

It’s been ten years since Taylor Bowen left Digby, Colorado. It was at that time her very best friend Sue Ryan accused her beau, Gordon Lane of getting her pregnant. Taylor believed Sue’s accusations to be true, even though Gordon told her he was innocent. Now, having completed medical school and moved forward with her life, Taylor is back to thank the people of her hometown who funded her education to medical school.

Taylor’s goal is to practice medicine for several years, away from Sue, Gordan and the hurtful memories. However, upon arrival Taylor encounters a naked Gordon who is as stunningly attractive now as he was ten years previously. Then, she learns that her facility isn’t ready as it was supposed to be, and that the insurance accepts the veterinary clinic as one of the few sterile facilities in town. To make matters worse, Gordon is the vet and his assistant is Sue. If all this weren’t enough for Taylor, she will now spend several weeks sharing the clinic with two people she cares deeply about and feel betrayed her trust. Although Gordon is still in love with Taylor, he has a difficult time forgiving her lack of trust in him. Then there’s Sue whose guilt is pushing her toward bringing the couple back together.

Deb Stover’s latest tale A Matter Of Trust is a wonderful book about letting go of the past, friendship, second chances and true love. Deb Stover was “born” to writer romance! Her stories never let readers down when it comes to her realistic down-to-earth characters. Romance just doesn’t get much better than this!

-Brenda K. Johnson

A Matter Of Time by, Terri Brisbin Jove Books November, 1999 ISBN: 0515126837 ©©©©© Hearts (Time-Travel Romance)

Dr. Douglas MacKenzie returns from his home in the US to Dunnedin, Scotland for a family reunion in September, 2000. Having spent years with the nightmares that involve an unknown beautiful woman, Douglas is easily shaken. When a strange and obviously distant relative named Mairi asks Douglas to get her basket lying near “the” arch, he agrees without much thought, feeling it to be a simple and harmless request. As he leans over to retrieve the basket, Douglas hears a woman’s agonized scream. He then rushes through the arch to see what was wrong with the lass. Once on the other side, Douglas rescues her and all the memories of his nightmares resurface as he recognizes her as the woman from his dreams....right before one of her attackers hits him on the head, rendering him unconscious.

Caitlin MacInnis also recognizes Douglas...as the man from her dreams. With the aid of her parents, they help Douglas heal from his injuries, but he has a hard time accepting that when he crossed through the arch it landed him in the fourteenth century. Although both Caitlin and Douglas find themselves falling in love with one another, they worry as to whether he will somehow find himself again on the other side of the arch in the 21st century.

Terri Brisbin has definitely made a name for herself within the romance industry with both her previous book A Love Through Time and now A Matter Of Time. One of my all time favorite time-travel romance authors used to be Constance O’Day-Flannery....but now, I believe she’s been replaced by the talented Ms. Brisbin.

-Connie Stamych

A Star To Sail By by, Susan Delaney Onyx November, 1999 ISBN: 0451408993 4 Hearts (Time-Travel Romance)

Since her husband Peter passed away two years ago, Peggy still mourns his loss and seems to have literally given up on life, just waiting to pass on and join her beloved. Even though she has a helpful and supportive family, nothing seems to bring her out of the deep depression she wallows in. While out swimming along in the Atlantic by her home in Slea Head, New Jersey, Peggy spots a body lying face down in the sand on the beach. When she approaches him to see if he is oaky, Peggy discovers that he is Owen Sinclair, a merchant marine sailor from Nova Scotia who had been washed over board by a giant wave when he was washed out to sea on September 19, 1853.

While Peggy works with Own to help him grow accustomed to the modern world and adapt to the numerous changes, he inturn achieves the impossible pulling Peggy out of her depression; which allows the couple to fall in love. A Star To Sail By is a sweet, soul-stirring time-travel romance that will leave readers of the sub-genre craving even more from this talented author. Kudos Susan Delaney for her “timeless” tale that will not soon be forgotten.

-G.D. Triplett

High Tide by, Jude Devereaux Pocket Books November, 1999 ISBN: 0671014161 3 1/2 Hearts (Cont. Romantic Suspense)

Davidson Toys executive Fiona Burkenhalter has dreamed of working on the popular Kimberly foll that she introduced several years back to rival the barbie doll. But Davidson CEO James Garret demands she go fishing, instead as Roy Hudson, the creator of a local Texas television show called Raphael - soon to be a “national” show insists that she attend, after all James wants to be first in line to the toy line tied to Rafael...and will go to just about any length to attain this.

After a night of fun and drinks with her friends, a tired and recuperating Fiona travels to Fort Lauderdale where she witnesses a man having his arm eaten off by an alligator. In a panic, Fiona destroys the alligator, only to discover that it is a mechanical replica owned by Ace Montgomery. It’s an instant dislike that Ace and Fiona feel for one another from the moment they meet.

The following day Fiona gets to Kendrick Park to go fishing with Roy, only to find Ace, the owner of the park ready to fight again. Both need one another...Ace needs the financing that Roy promised him and Ace owns the park....the following day they discover that Roy is dead and both Ace and Fiona flee the scene, leaving the police, the media and the killer chasing them. Their relationship appears to be one of both love and hate, and as they struggle to survive and stay one step ahead of everyone following them, the couple struggle with their feelings for one another, too.

High Tide is Jude Deveraux at her best. Although this reviewer prefers her time-travels and historical romances to the contemporary romantic suspense novels she tends to write lately, this is definitely one author that always comes through with a winner...regardless of the subgenre.

-Karen Goodman

Magical Moments by Donna Fletcher Berkley Books November, 1999 ISBN: 0515126810 3 Hearts (Supernatural Romance)

When three hundred year old witch Dagon Rasmas returns from the US to his Scottish castle in an upheaval as a newly hired maid Sarina - a somewhat incompetent maid whose clumsy blunders has led to many problems. The staff and Dagon find that they cannot fix Sarina’s mishaps. Through all of this Dagon wishes for something he doesn’t have...a lifemate. He is very envious of his good friend Alisande, who recently married a person she is deeply in love with and vice versa. While he knows what his “heart” wants...he needs a powerful witch by his side, and that is a tall order for any female. Because of this Dagon chooses as his lifemate the legendary “Ancient One,” even though he feels himself falling in love with the poor excuse of a witch Sarina who inturn is falling in love with Dagon, too. Will duty force Dagon to reject his heart’s desire and follow through with his plans and pursuit of the Ancient One over Sarina?

Donna Fletcher has written a truly beautiful love story that weaves its way around readers hearts as they struggle alongside the magical characters while they make their way in the modern world. If you enjoy reading “otherworldly” novels then you are sure to love Ms. Fletcher’s latest work of art Magical Moments.

-Connie Stamych

The Changling Bride by, Lisa Cache Leisure / Love Spell October, 1999 ISBN: 0505523426 4 Hearts (Time-Travel Romance)

In order to acquire the money necessary to rebuild his estate, the earl of Allsbrook decides to barter his tile right along with his future and to do so marries the daughter of a wealthy merchant; Wilhelmina March. Although Wilhelmina is a pretty girl with a nice figure and quite an eye for fashion, Henry’s true wish is the be in a happy marriage - one made of love and dreams fulfilled.

Wilhelmina is none-to-happy about the marriage and the importance her family...especially her brother puts upon it. However, never in her wildest imagination did she believe she would wed an Earl in Georgian England--or of the fairy debt that makes this opportunity possible. However, with a magical kiss set in a long ago time in a place she’s only read about in books and seen in dreams...Elle finds herself giving in to the notion that maybe, just maybe there is something to all the “marriage” hype after all.

Lisa Cach has written an enchanting tale that left me with a smile on my face throughout the story. Anyone wanting to slip away into another time and place and let the imagination soar, will truly love The Changling Bride....a definite keeper.

-Marti Witherspoon

Beyond Forever by, Debra Dier Leisure / Love Spell November, 1999 ISBN: 0843946237 3 Hearts (Supernatural Romance)

In the year 1999 the dark, ghostly figure of Gavin MacKinnon appears to Julia Fairchild out of the swirling fog on the clift’s edge. He is handsome...and definitely male and radiates sexuality. The kind of man capable of having even the most sensible level-headed of women throwing caution to the wind and making reckless choices.

However, Independent and very sensible Julia does not intend to allow herself to be coerced into anything...not even by the sensual man of her dreams. Especially if it means traveling through time in search of miracles...at least not willingly, that is. Kidnapped from her own time and dragged across the centuries to the year 1818, Julia finds herself face-to-face with the man from her dreams...but this time he is flesh and blood and comes with a name...Gavin MacKinnon. Both Gavin and Julia are shocked and bewildered to find themselves together. However, after a night of hot passion in a century from long ago, Julia gives in to her heart’s desire and together the couple can no longer deny the fact that their lives are bound together forever, regardless of the time, place or distance between them

Once again Debra Dier gifts her numerous fans with another extraordinary tale of timeless love. Beyond Forever is a wonderful tale of soul mates and second chances. The lovely lead characters along with Ms. Dier’s intricate weaving of words makes the unbelievable seem oh-so real! This is a great book to curl up with on a cold winter night...settle in and enjoy!

-Brenda K. Johnson

Once & Forever by, Constance O’Day-Flannery Avon Books November, 1999 ISBN: 0380801701 4 Hearts (Time-Travel Romance)

While visiting her aunt in England, American Maggie Whitaker attends a renaissance faire and finds herself walking through an Elizabethan age in the sixteenth century. Along her trek through time Maggie wanders into Nicholas Layton, a handsome, disinherited nobleman caught up in some very dangerous intrigues of Queen Elizabeth’s royal court...and currently on his way to a betrothal.

Nicholas is not sure what to think of Maggie and her odd ramblings of a “faire” and being lost in a maze. A confused Nicholas is caught off guard when the two kiss, causing him to want to keep Maggie for himself. However, Maggie is still at that point sure she is still at the faire and just wandering lost. And in turn plays along with Nicholas thinking him to be an actor pretending to meet Countess Elthea, her betrothed’s mother who just so happens to resemble Maggie’s aunt.

Without allowing herself time to become adjusted to her new surroundings and the past she now lives, Maggie finds that she is caught up in the middle of a scheme to over-throw Elezabeth from the throne. But then again...she never dreamed she would be falling in love with a man from a different century and fighting to keep from being thrown back into the present, leaving her love behind.

Constance O’day-Flannery has written a fun-filled time-travel romance with a touch of comedy, a paranormal twist and a cinderella-type story that readers will fall in love with Once and Forever!

-Marti Witherspoon

Magic Spells by, Christy Yorke Bantam November, 1999 ISBN: 0553578421 3 Hearts (Contemporary Romance)

Pregnant Jane Gregory was supposed to have married handsome Ned Payton seven years ago. Although Ned loved Jane as best he could, that just wasn’t enough to keep him faithful and in the end would only have been marrying her because it was “the right thing to do,” in her condition. However, on the night before their nuptials were to have taken place, Ned died in a car wreck and since Jane had wished him dead prior to the accident, she now blames herself for his demise.

Graham Payton, Ned’s brother is the town doctor and the one time friend of Jane’s whom he’s always loved. And when Jane left town to live with her grandmother, it broke his heart almost as much as it did when she became engaged to Ned. Now, after seven years Jane returns to Pendleton, VT to take care of her deceased mother’s home, along with Esther; her grandmother and her seven year old son, Alex. Alex has never spoken a single word in his life and although doctors cannot find a physical cause for this, Jane is guild ridden and blames herself for this, too.

Graham married an old girlfriend, Ginny when Jane left town, but his feelings never changed for her. Nor did his jealousy for the relationship she once shared with his brother. Then, there’s the town new-comer Devon Zeke--who not only reminds Jane a lot of Ned, but lands himself a front row seat in the whole entanglement due to his interest in Jane. All of which will have them tangled together once again. embroiled in a situation that just might leave one or both of them hurt all over again.

Christy Yorke is a breath of fresh air who has found her niche as a world class storyteller! She has a unique way of making her story come to life, leap off the pages of the book and roll through readers’ minds like the replaying of a movie. Magic Spells is a somewhat sad story that comes together in the end. Anyone who enjoys a warm tightly packaged tale will enjoy this story right down to the last page.

-Brenda K. Johnson

Jewels Of The Sun by, Nora Roberts Jove Books December, 1999 ISBN: 0515126772 4 Hearts (Fantasy / Paranormal romance.)

When psychologist Jude Murray resigns from her job mid semester from the university without notice, everyone who knows her is shocked. Jude has always been the “responsible” stable person--but now, taking her granny’s advice, she flies to Ireland to her grandmother’s ancestral home “Faerie Hill Cottage” to “find herself.” Jude needs this time to recover from her failed marriage and a disappointing career.

While visiting the local pub, Jude meets the handsome owner, Aidan Gallagher and both are instantly attracted to one another. Aidan fills Jude in on the local legends and history of his homeland. However, Jude is not as alone as she thought at Faerie Hill Cottage...she shares the house with a three century old ghost.

Will Jude find the happiness she’s missed and stay on in Ireland with Aidan, or will she make the same mistake that the ghost she resides with made at Faerie Hill Cottage? Read the story....you’ll not be disappointed!

Nora Roberts always manages to create funny, sweet, uplifting romance novels that seamlessly combine love, inner turmoil and sprinkle in a few “otherworldly” spices that together make for the perfect blend for readers to get lost in. Jewels of the Sun is vintage storytelling from the prolific pen of Ms. Roberts.

-Connie Stamych

Lady In White by, Denise Domning Signet November, 1999 ISBN: Not Known 5 Hearts (Paranormal Rom.)

Windowed, Lady Belle Purfoy can’t figure out what the monarch could possibly want of her, plain and far from beautiful she is not the type of lady that attracts the attention of the queen. As it turns out, Queen Elizabeth is using Belle as a pawn in a gambit brought on by her mother’s treachery. The Queen has ordered Belle to marry a man of her choosing...and Elizabeth chooses Nicholas Hillier.

Although not a match made in heaven and of the heart...things aren’t that bad both Nicholas and Belle stand to gain in this arrangement. Nick will reclaim his title and lands and Belle will gain a father-figure for her young daughter. But the Elizabethan intrigue runs deeper as the queen’s courtier feels that they should use Belle to discover if Nick is a papist. While ill, Nick has a friend James Wyatt act as his proxy and attend court at the betrothal and even when the marriage is consummated. But there’s more, still...there is a trouble-making spirit that is haunting Belle who bewitches the unhappy women of the estate causing them to leap to their death. Belle grows fond of Nick, however it is James she truly loves. Now Belle finds herself in trouble torn by her loyalty to her husband loyalty to her heart...and James.

Denise Domning is a phenomenal writer whose detail to history and intricately woven intrigue will have readers clamoring to their local bookstore to pick up a copy of her latest work of art Lady In White.

-Connie Stamych

Shirley, Goodness & Mercy by, Debbie Macomber Mira (Hardcover) November, 1999 ISBN: 3 Hearts (Angel/Paranormal Romance)

Back once again are Debbie Macomber and her heart-warming trio of angels...Shirley, Goodness and Mercy. Having been banished to the Heavenly Host Choir as a punishment for their last romp to Earth, the Archangel Gabriel decides to send them on yet another case...one that he thinks will leave the three interfering heavenly do-gooder’s screaming “uncle.” Having spent a lifetime thinking only of himself - Greg Bennett is in for quite a surprise. He’s never given the feelings of others any consideration at all. When he was in college he left his girlfriend when she became pregnant, he’s refused to help his aunt and uncle out when they needed him most, then he argued and fought with his brother after their mother’s funeral....he’s been a very self-centered man that finds himself left with little more than hurtful memories and too many burned bridges.

Greg now finds himself in the throws of his third divorce, and vineyard and wine business faced with a strange blight. Now feeling sorry for himself and the fact that he may lose it all, Greg is alone at Christmas and stumbles into a church. While there, his prayers summon Shirley, Goodness and Mercy who are determined to stop at nothing short of helping the one person who truly seems beyond help and redemption. Debbie Macomber never fails to gift readers with endearing, lovable...and yes, wholesome stories we love and have come to expect from this remarkable storyteller. A well-written tale that is sure to delight readers. Shirley, Goodness and Mercy is also the right size to fit inside a stocking.

-G.D. Triplett

The Horseman by, Kristina O’Donnelly Hollis Books October, 1999 ISBN: 4 1/2 Hearts (Reincarnation Romance)

While on holiday from the US in Turkey with her family, Adriadne’s recurring nightmares that she’s been dealing with suddenly take a different turn. The sense of Dejavu is overwhelming and Ariadne feels as though she has been to there before and knew the stranger she encounters. However, when she is abducted by a man she is certain she knows from somewhere her life gets even more bizarre. Caught somewhere between the life she lived in the past and the current one that exists in the present, tied to the odd memories she gets in flashes here and there, are the famous Turkish journalist and a Kurd who might possibly be her enemies. Drawn together from a rocky past in the nineteen sixties each person in this story is drawn together to escape the past and secure a future for themselves.

The Horseman is a unique story with fascinating characters, religious and ethnic diversity that intertwines history, the paranormal, culture and romance to form a truly remarkable tale that readers will not soon forget. Kristina O’Donnelly is a bright new star on the rise and should be commended for her first release....here’s hoping it’s far from the last.

-Karen Goodman

Heaven’s Reward by, Marian Edwards Zebra Books ISBN: 3 Hearts (Paranormal/ Time-Travel Romance)

Picking up where Heaven Sent left off previously Heaven’s Reward sees the two soulmates Drew and Regan find that they have to travel back in time to correct the mistakes made in the past and put their ancestors on the right track, changing history. They travel to the 12th-century Scotland and into he bodies of Adriana and Robb MacGrgor.

Although Robb and Adriana have slept together, thus resulting in Adriana’s pregnancy, Robb refuses to marry her. Robb’s father steps up and marries her to give the babe a name. However, when his father dies, Robb fulfills his last dying wish and marries Adriana , which leaves Robb even more bitter than he already is. With the help of Drew and Regan, Robb will overcome this and find peace.

When members of the Scottish clan fall ill, it’s Regan who, using her modern medical know-how comes through and saves their lives. But even more problems arise when Drew’s spirit leaves Robbs body which makes all the bitterness and heartache he feels return, thus resulting in disclaiming Adriana’s child as his own. But in the end it’s Drew and Regan who help the couple heal their old wounds and learn to love again.

Heaven’s Reward follows closely with Heaven Sent and readers who fell in love with Ms. Edward’s first book will undoubtedly find the second as equally fulfilling as the first.

-Marti-Witherspoon

Soul Survivor by, Susan Plunkett Jove Books December, 1999 ISBN: 0515126845 5 Hearts (Paranormal Romance)

When Roxanne Griffith loses the last of her living relatives, she holds up better than anyone could have imagined. Showing courage and strength and a whole lot of composure when funeral crasher, Spencer only reinforces him to provide her with closure and a sense of happiness.

Roxanne’s father Matt, who died thirty years ago in Vietnam now resides in the Abyss of Nothingness. After another being accuses Matt of being stingy with his love of other people with no compassion or feelings for his own loved ones, Matt is faced with the opportunity to repair the results of the things he’s done wrong. by returning to earth as a ghost. Matt’s failure to do this will result in an eternity alone in the Abyss.

As a member of the Remembrance Foundation that is attempting to attain the remains of Vietnam MIA’s, which includes his brother, Spencer has also recovered the remains of Matt Griffith. But instead of this bringing closure and happiness to Roxanne, her bitterness surfaces and she rejects her father and his memory. Even though her reaction to his surprise was far less than he had hoped for, Spencer finds himself falling in love with Roxanne. For someone who thinks she’s all alone, Roxanne now has her dead father and the attractive stranger Spencer both pursuing her.

Soul Survivor is a charming tale of redemption, second chances and love that knows no boundaries. The touching story is made even better by the endearing characters that weave their way into your heart with each page.

Susan Plunkett is a master storyteller that gets better and better with each release we see. This is a fantastic supernatural romance that will bring every emotion you have to the surface as you laugh, cry and smile your way through the story.

-Connie Stamych

A Time To Dream by, Sherry Lewis Jove Books December, 1999 ISBN: 0515127299 2 1/2 Hearts (Time-Travel Romance)

In present day Hanibal, Missouri, Shelby Miller is working hard to save the nineteenth century homes of Winterhill and Summervale from a developer. But this proves to be a difficult task as Shelby has no one to help and back her, not even family as she is an orphan and little more than the caretaker and unable to save the homes herself.

When Shelby visits an old abandoned building, Shelby is transported into the body of Agatha Logan; a crazy woman that legends say mysteriously abandoned her husband and two children to live alone in Summervale. Now in the body of Agatha and 1871 Hanibal, once over the idea that she is having a bad dream, Shelby feels her purpose in this adventure is to save the marriage of Agatha and Azacharias. However, Zacharias will not allow a reconciliation as he fears the safety of his children and bears the guilt for having sired them with his mistress Patricia Starling. Even with all the obstacles she faces, Shelby pushes forward determined to win back Zacharias and his love....but now more for herself than Agatha.

A Time To Dream is an interesting time-travel romance whose passionate characters, intriguing storyline coupled with the deft skill of the author, Sherry Lewis, for bringing all this to life make this story a keeper from the first page!

-Brenda K. Johnson

Searching For Sarah by, Lynn Erickson Jove Books December, 1999 ISBN: 0515126993 3 Hearts (Romantic Mystery / Suspense)

In Denver’s Brown Palace Hotel Sarah Jamison meets up with Senator Scott Taylor. The two hit it off and Sarah decides to help elect Scott as the next president of the United States....the senator wants to help Sarah, too...right out of her clothes and into his bed. But before the two of them can work out some sort of arrangement, Scott receives two visitors to his suite. While Sarah hides in the bedroom, one of the men assassinates Scott for not cooperating with them. When Sarah peaks out of the bedroom she recognizes one of the men as a big player in Washington. ,p> Over a year later, Jake Savelle is still trying to prove that his brother-in-law Scott wasn’t killed in a random robbery. Bent on trying to prove this, Jake has lost his wife to divorce as well as most of his friends. If all of that weren’t bad enough, the Colorado bar has disbarred him for practicing law because of the claim of sexual misconduct by a female juror.

When an anonymous call rings through claiming to have been a witness to Scott’s murder, Jake starts questioning and investigating around Aspen until he finds a name Sarah. While undercover Jake tries to get Sarah to come forward with her eyewitness account of the night, but all Jake seems to feel is a growing attraction and love for her, which he has to set aside in order to keep the two of them safe as his enemies are following them and are aware of his every move and step taken to blow the case wide open.

Searching For Sarah is a wonderful romantic mystery that centers one choices made; both wrong and right and the truth setting you free. Lynn Erickson is a brilliant writer who always comes through, living up to the expectations we have all come to expect from the wonderful writing pen of the RITA winner! Cheers!

-Connie Stamych

Enchanted by, Nora Roberts Silhouette Intimate Moments (#961) November, 1999 4 Hearts (Paranormal Romance)

Having read the first three stories in the Donovan Legacy years ago, I had great expectations for Enchanted. And Ms. Roberts definitely lived up to every one of them. I was very worried that I wouldn’t remember much about the first in this series; Captivated, Entranced and Charmed...until I started reading...about half way through the first chapter it all came back to me and it was as though I had read the previous books just yesterday.

The hero in this story Liam, is a shapechanger shifting from his role as man to wolf - after seeing Rowan and becoming attracted to the her, he watches her, falling more in love with her by the day. Since Liam is so attracted to Rowan, he feels that this may be a way to sort of bypass his hereditary elfin responsibilities. However, Liam is also not certain this is not a job he wants because for him to accept the role he must mate with a woman of elfin blood, and if he falls in love with a mortal woman such as Rowan, he cannot assume this role. Little does he know that the Rowan has elfin blood...so, his worries and inner turmoil may all be for nothing.

Ms. Roberts has brought back many of the characters from this book’s predecessors, giving readers another chance to fall in love all over again with the Donovan’s. Enchanted will truly sweep readers off their feet. Whether you enjoy straight traditional romance or those with a little “something” extra thrown in, Nora Roberts always comes through with something for everyone.

-Marti Witherspoon

Rhapsody by, Judith Gould Dutton (Hardcover) November, 1999 ISBN: 0525945164 3 Hearts (Romantic Intrigue)

One of the most accomplished classical pianist, Misha Levin, also an extremely handsome man feels he has achieved everything in life there is, except of course the experience of true love. Eight years earlier after a passionate and torrid romance, Serena Gibbons walked out of his life, leaving Misha hurt, confused and feeling less than the man.

Not too long after that Misha went on to marry Vera Bunim - a plain but very loyal woman who stood by his side through triumphs while his career soared to the top. However, during his stardom, Misha has never forgotten Serena or his love for her. But then while on a street in Vienna mere hours before performing one of the most important concerts of his career he spots Serena for the first time in eight years and with just one glance, one smile and one kiss their passion and love for one another comes to surface all over again and their lives will never again be the same.

Rhapsody is an intriguing tale that will entertain readers with it’s colorful cast of characters and charm that the gifted Ms. Gould brings to life in this story.

-Connie Stamych

Star Of Wonder (Anthology) Jove Books November, 1999 ISBN: 0515126535 4 Hearts (Fantasy Romance)

This seasonal anthology is a magical collection of short stories centered on the power of love....and the star of magi (star of wonder) guiding women and aiding them with their love and affairs of the heart during the holiday season. The first in this collaborative effort is by bestselling author, Jo Beverly. In a Day Of Wrath, which is set in 1999, England. This is the story of Hera, who upon returning home discovers that the Vikings defeated her father in battle. She has loved Raef for a long time, but he was married to another, now a widower, Hera find her comfort during these sorrowful times in his arms. However, Raef has vowed to never marry again as he fears he will lend nothing but more hurt to Hera’s life. However, with a little magical help from the Star of the Magi, Hera is able to convince Raef in the power of love.

The second story is Starlight Wedding, by Alice Alfonsi. This romantic short takes place in 1799, where a young and grieving Felicity is saddened for her inability to conceive a child. She finds the Star of Magi and meets William Court and although the couple fall in love with one another, not only does Felicity still long for a child, but William finds it hard to open himself up and be the loving and warm person she longs for....until the magical star works its wonders on the unsuspecting couple, brightening both of their lives.

In The Last Kiss at the Loving Cup Saloon, by renowned new-age romance writer, Tess Farraday, readers are swept yet again to another era in 1899, where the hero, Joe finds himself with four abandoned children in need of a mother. As a last resort, Joe tricks his mail order bride, Katherine into taking care of the children. But little does Joe realize that the Star of Magi is working its magic and helps nudge the couple together.

A longtime favorite author of mine, Kate Freiman, shares her mini romance tale with readers entitled Joy to the World, which is set in the present, 1999 and is the story of a young woman named Angela who is grieving over the loss of her brother who died. But she is not alone in her loss, as her brother’s best friend, Joshua is there by her side, comforting Angela in her time of need. Together, through the tragedy the couple find strength and love in one another....thanks to a little help from the Star of Magi.

Star Of Wonder is a fun-filled adventure that gifts readers with several diverse tales of joy, loss, and love found. Readers who enjoy reading the seasonal tales of Christmas and all it entails, will find this unique anthology the perfect gift---four mini novels all wrapped up in one shiny package!

-Marti Witherspoon

Whitehorse by, Katherine Sutcliffe Jove Books November, 1999 ISBN: 0515126780 4 Hearts (Indian Mysticism)

In New Mexico, Senator Foster blackmails his teenage daughter Leah into ending her relationship with Mescalero Apache, Johnny Whitehorse by way of threatening to fire his father from his position in the stable if she doesn’t stop seeing him. Thirteen years later, now a veterinarian divorcee and the mother of a disabled son, Leah returns to her hometown burdened with memories of Johnny and the deception her father used to force them to part. Johnny has since become an internationally famed model and starred in movies, making quite a name for himself. He has publicly denounced the Senator for having destroyed the Apache economy which heavily invested in the now failed Apache Casino and Resort development firm, and exposes Foster in the driving force secretly behind the bankruptcy.

When Leah and Johnny see each other for the first time in thirteen years since her father forced them to part, the two find that they still have feelings and a great attraction for one another. However, Johnny finds it hard to forgive Leah for the deception and hurt she caused, even though he knows deep down inside that he still loves her. Shortly after, when Johnny and his girlfriend are driving down the road another car pulls alongside and deliberately runs them off the road, causing a fatal accident which claims the life of his girlfriend and injures Johnny. While Johnny feels the senator to be behind the accident, he also knows that to expose him will most likely end what little chance at reconciliation he and Leah have.

Whitehorse is a wonderful romantic suspense novel and showcases Katherine Sutcliffe at her best, scoring with yet another passionate, intriguing and character-driven delight that all will enjoy.

-Brenda K. Johnson

The Forever Bride by, Judith O’Brien,/i> Pocket Books November, 1999 ISBN:) 3 1/2 (Ghost / Mystery Romance) In 1849 New York, spiritualist Celia Thomason makes a respectable living as by using her gift, thanks to the assistance of her Aunt Pru and her loyal and devoted servant, Patrick. When an Irish businessman named Garrick Stevens hires Celia to contact the deceased wife of his grieving brother-in-law, Brendan, he is sure the woman is using hoary parlor tricks and will not be able to contact anyone. However, ever the skeptic, Brendan at least hopes that the performance will shake Garrick out of his deep depression and put his grief behind him, and aid him in learning the truth about his sister’s death.

Surprising everyone, Celia makes the ghost of Amanda appear in her aunt’s home. More strange events follow when while eating dinner at the Astor with Brendan, Celia gets drunk and the next day has no memory of the events of the prior evening. Brendan makes Celia believe that they had made love that night, when in reality that is no where near the truth. Although Brendan is confused and unsure what provokes him to do so, he blackmails Celia into marrying him. To top matters off, Brendan then turns angry toward Celia when he believes her to be playing on his emotions and scamming him when his dead sister, Amanda reappears. During all of this, Celia begins to feel that Garrick is the person who killed Amanda.

Brendan and Celia work together with the help of his deceased loved on as a guide to finding the truth. Even though Brendan has many doubts about Celia’s spiritual abilities, he can never doubt his feelings toward the woman who slowly, but surely won his heart.

The Forever Bride is a complicated story that left me at times wandering through the pages of the book trying to find out what I might have missed, as I was easily lost trying to keep up with the storyline. Even still, once I found my place, so to speak, I found this to be an enjoyable historical new-age tale that left me with a good feeling when the last page was turned. Judith O’Brien is an excellent storyteller with the ability to bring a bygone era alive with richly detailed setting, enjoyable characters and a love story that is sure to put a smile on your face.

-Brenda K. Johnson

Magic By Daylight by, Lynn Bailey Jove Books December, 1999 ISBN: 0515127019 5 Hearts (Supernatural Romance)

In 1800 at Hamford, Having been courted by numerous handsome suitors, beautiful Lady Clarice Stavely has never met a man who intrigues her enough to open her heart, fall in love and get married, thinking them all after her title and money. She is delighted that her best friend has found happiness and getting married, but never believes this to be her fate...until Dominic Knight enters her life.

After the wedding and following party come to a close and everyone leaves a stranger arrives. Author Dominic Knight claims to be a historian with only a professional interest in Iron Age relics and antiques, planning to write a book on the relics in the area. However, Clarice feels there is more to his story than he is telling.

In reality, Dominic is a mortal man who works for Forgall, King of the People. His monarch has assigned him the job of keeping Clarice safe during the forthcoming civil war among the fairies. While Clarice opens her heart to Dominic her curious young nephew discovers their Dominic’s true identity and his mission to protect her. Frightened, Clarice begins a terrifying journey through the Faery world, where she encounters her scheming manipulative mother and is faced with the choice of a lifetime in order to free her heart and share her life with the man she loves.

Magic By Daylight is an enchanting mystical story that brings the Regency period to life. With a dusting of supernatural thrown in, this story makes readers open their minds and believe in the “magic” of love.

-Karen Goodman

Starlight, Starbright by, Saranne Dawson Leisure / Love Spell November, 1999 ISBN: 0505523469 4 Hearts (Futuristic Romance) Serena has always been the curious sort with an unquenchable thirst for knowledge and the understanding of the unknown...as well as an insatiable appetite for adventure and intrigues. To Serena, it seems that no one understands her or her interest and fascination with the heavens and stars in the sky. But Serena’s life will never be the same when one of the “stars” lands and off the ship steps the most virile, handsome man she has ever laid eyes on, he captures her heart...right along with her body.

Darian’s mission is to bring Serena to the Sisterhood for training and harness her vast mental power. Although he knows what his mission is and the “rules” he must follow, Darian cannot resist the beautiful Serena who makes him feel as though he is the only man in the entire Universe worthy of her love. Even though there are forces that conspire to keep the couple apart, Darian knows that together he and Serena can use the power of the stars and over come the obstacles they face.

As is always the case, Saranne Dawson comes through once again with a masterfully written futuristic romance that sends readers soaring through the stars on another adventurous jaunt to the unknown. Starlight, Starbright will please fans of this astounding author and win over numerous new readers as they follow the couple through the heavens.

-Marti Witherspoon

The Perfect Gift by, Christina Skye Avon Books November, 1999 ISBN: 3 1/2 Hearts (Paranormal Romance)

In the Perfect Gift, Draycott Abbey, the mystical gray cat Gideon and the enticing ghost of Adrian Draycott are here again for another magical adventure thanks to author Christina Skye. In the latest installment to the Draycott Abbey series, the hero Jared MacNeill and heroine Maggie Kincaide having issues of their own already working against them when the meet. Maggie is attempting to come to terms with the disappearance and possible death of her father while Jared is continually battling the nightmares and memories from when he was a prisoner in the Jungles of Thailand.

Nicholas Draycott (remember his from the romantic short Enchantment) chose Maggie for an international jewelry exhibit due to her expertise in metalwork. However, the disappearance of her father along with several rare and expensive jewelry pieces make Maggies work difficult. While neither Maggie or her father had charges raised against them, the horror of it all is wearing on her. So, Nicholas decides to hire Jared to check out Maggies story - even though he’s sure she had nothing to do with the missing jewels, he needs to know what he’s up against before the media gets involved.

Although Jared agrees to help Nicholas, he does so reluctantly and when he and Maggie meet, the sparks fly as they are immediately attracted to one another. But there’s more..ever since Jared’s brother died and his near death experience in Thailand, he is now able to read people’s thoughts and feelings through touch.

Once the couple travel to Draycott Abbey, they begin experiencing peculiar goings-on. After several incidents it is obvious to readers that the Maggie and Jared shared a tragic love in another life, brought together for a second chance to set things right. Also during this time they realize that someone is out to do Maggie harm, and that her father may be alive after all.

The Perfect Gift..is just that; a “perfect” otherworldly tale from Christina Skye, a brilliant storyteller who webs tidbits from previous stories and the characters we fell in love with from Christmas Knight and Enchantment, blending them together in her latest release that simply begs for yet another story by the end of the book. This is an author who never lets her readers down. Readers know when they pick up a Christina Skye novel that it will eventually land a spot on their prized keeper shelf.

-Brenda K. Johnson

Windswept by, Cynthia Thomason Zebra Splendor December, 1999 ISBN: 0821764438 4 Hearts (Historical Intrigue)

Having been raised in the straight-laced and somewhat sedate world of Richmond society, Seabrook has always dreamed of a life beyond the formal existence..somewhere filled with excitement and intrigue. Thinking things have turned in the right direction when her father is appointed the new Federal Judge on the island of Key West, Nora is elated at the idea of moving. However, Nora’s dreams are soon lost when she finds herself falling from a gangplank in the cold waters.

To Nora’s surprise, she is rescued by the dashing and handsome Captain Jacob Proctor; owner of one of the most wealthy wrecking companies on the island, who just so happens to be the one man her father is trying to prove is guilty of committing the most wicked of sins. Captain Proctor knew he should leave the young daughter of the judge trying to convict him to fend for herself, as she is the last person in the world he should get involved with. But that isn’t the only reason they can have not future together--there is a dark secret that tortures him. A secret history of pain he fears involving any woman he loves with. Nora has other ideas and will not allow him to send her away from him. Now, thrown together on an exotic voyage that will take the couple to Nora’s long awaited adventure will prove to sweep her off her feet and into the waiting arms of a man of her dreams...if they can survive his past. that will take the couple to Nora’s long awaited adventure will prove to sweep her off her feet and into the waiting arms of a man of her dreams...if they can survive his past.

Windswept is a whirlwind tale with down-to-earth characters facing the trials and tribulations that life has thrown their way. Cynthia Thomason takes readers on a breathtaking journey full of dark secrets, intrigue and a seductive love that will have readers anxiously awaiting the next story from this talented author.

-Marti Witherspoon

Cupid: The Amorous Arrow by, J.M. Jeffries ImaJinn Books October, 1999 5 Hearts (Supernatural Romance)

Cupid: The Amorous Arrow is a modern-day fairy-tale romance with snippets of Greek Mythology and its players woven into the storyline. Brought in front of the disciplinary committee, Cupid finds himself given one last chance to bring two soul mates together and right a wrong, or face the possibility of being demoted to something as disgraceful as God of Toxic Waste.

Because of an age-old feud between Fortuna, Goddess of wealth and prosperity, and Cupid’s mother, Venus; Goddess of Love, Fortuna does everything in her power to keep Cupid from accomplishing his goal...and saving his position. Cupid’s quest is to unite two of the most un-likely soul mates ever. Amberlin O’Rouke, an accomplished but unknown painter, working as a plumber to pay bills, and Jeremy Barrett, grandson of Frederick Barrett, tycoon of Barrett’s department store...born with a silver spoon in his mouth. A real Cinderella-type romance...minus the fairy god mother replaced by Cupid.

Jeremy first notices Amberlin when she returns some stolen merchandise to the store that her aunt Cecilia Luna snatched. Apparently Cecilia has been stealing merchandise from Barret’s for almost forty years, always to be returned, as a vendetta of sorts and an attempt to get the attention of the man she loves, Frederick Barrett. Jeremy’s grandfather. In the end, all’s well that ends well, and Cupid, with a little magical match-making help from Venus, brings the couple together and defeats Fortuna. Even better still, is the secondary love connection made between Frederick and Cecilia, bringing closure to this story for a doubly romantic happy ending.

The comic relief provided by Bernice, Frederick’s outspoken secretary, and Venus and her flighty romantic liaisons with every God on Mount Olympus will have readers giggling their way through the pages of this delightful tale. Kudos go out to Imajinn Books and the promising new writing team of J.M. Jeffries and their charming new debut romance. Cupid: The Amorous Arrow is a magical “feel-good” story that is sure to leave readers with a smile on their face and their fingers crossed, waiting to see if Cupid gets his own story and a chance at true love. If the forthcoming releases from this new publisher are anything close to the quality of Cupid: The Amorous Arrow, Imajinn Books is sure to be a success.