Product Description
Sir Thomas Malory's Le Morte D'Arthur is one of the most enduring achievements of English literary history. This study offers a new interpretation of this seminal version of the Arthurian Romances beginning with recognition of its status as one of the first literary works to be mass produced by the typographic age. Acknowledging that literacy revolutionizes the human thought world, and maintaining the validity of exploring the psychological content of traditional literature, a specific psychic preoccupation is identified in Malory's work: namely, man's struggle to accommodate the conflicting demands of his divided self. ... Read more

Product Description
Four historical novellas featuring Texas Rangers and the women who love them. Each story is a blend of adventure, faith, and romance based around the lives of men who served as Texas Rangers. Authors: Carol Cox, DiAnn Mills, Darlene Mindrup, and Kathleen Y'Barbo. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

What's Not To Love About Hunky Texas Rangers,In A 'Clean' Romance Book?
There are not enough 'clean' romance novels featuring Texas Rangers as the heroes,so I was delighted to discover this selection of four novellas by Christian authors! I enjoyed reading them very much,but please how about some full length romance novels with Texas Ranger heroes?

Loved it!
This book was great. Tho I wish Each story would have been longer. But I enjoyed them either way. The only one I didn't much care for was Saving Grace, I found places where it didn't seem to make much since, but at the same time it did. haha. Im not sure just a lil confusing, but otherwise it was agreat read :)

Great inspirational love stories
Yellow Roses is an anthology of Christian romances set in 19th century Texas.Each novella is a stand-alone story of plucky heroines and Texas Ranger heroes. All four novellas are good, short reads, but two are outstanding: Serena's Strength and Saving Grace.

DiAnn Mills skillfully weaves a tender romance between Serena Talbot and Chet Wilkinson while portraying their spiritual struggles in an unobtrusive, believable way in SERENA'S STRENGTH. Her historical and cultural accuracy blends an engaging story line and an authentic narrative of life as Texas Ranger in the developing Republic of Texas.

Kathleen Y'Barbo narrates the story of a tenacious Texas Ranger widow, Grace Delaney who struggles to keep her home and family together and Jedadiah Harte, ex-Texas Ranger turned preacher in SAVING GRACE. Their spiritual journey with God and to each other is a well crafted, uplifting read.

While all four are well-written and wholesome romantic stories, I'm sure you'll want to read other titles by both DiAnn Mills and Kathleen Y'Barbo.

Great inspirational love stories
Yellow Roses is an anthology of Christian romances set in 19th century Texas.Each novella is a stand-alone story of plucky heroines and Texas Ranger heroes. All four novellas are good, short reads, but two are outstanding: Serena's Strength and Saving Grace.

DiAnn Mills skillfully weaves a tender romance between Serena Talbot and Chet Wilkinson while portraying their spiritual struggles in an unobtrusive, believable way in SERENA'S STRENGTH. Her historical and cultural accuracy blends an engaging story line and an authentic narrative of life as Texas Ranger in the developing Republic of Texas.

Kathleen Y'Barbo narrates the story of a tenacious Texas Ranger widow, Grace Delaney who struggles to keep her home and family together and Jedadiah Harte, ex-Texas Ranger turned preacher in SAVING GRACE. Their spiritual journey with God and to each other is a well crafted, uplifting read.

While all four are well-written and wholesome romantic stories, I'm sure you'll want to read other titles by both DiAnn Mills and Kathleen Y'Barbo.

Great Read!
Each short story is a satisfying read by itself, to get all of them in one book is a real treat. If you love fun heroines, good heros and love based on Faith, you will HAVE to read this book! ... Read more

Product Description
Chapter One.
Waiting Supper.
The nights of August are in Saint Domingo the hottest of the year. The winds then cease to befriend the panting inhabitants; and while the thermometer stands at 90 degrees, there is no steady breeze, as during the preceding months of summer. Light puffs of wind now and then fan the brow of the negro, and relieve for an instant the oppression of the European settler; but they are gone as soon as come, and seem only to have left the heat more intolerable than before.
Of these sultry evenings, one of the sultriest was the 22nd of August, 1791. This was one of five days appointed for rejoicings in the town of Cap Français—festivities among the French and Creole inhabitants, who were as ready to rejoice on appointed occasions as the dulness of colonial life renders natural, but who would have been yet more lively than they were if the date of their festival had been in January or May. There was no choice as to the date, however. They were governed in regard to their celebrations by what happened at Paris; and never had the proceedings of the mother-country been so important to the colony as now.
... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (1)

Twenty short tales with an Irish flair and just a touch of magic, myth and love
Not everyone likes these BIG short Story collections but I love anthologies and when I think of Ireland I think of Fae legend and magical romance, so I was eagerly awaiting the release of the Mammoth Book of Irish romance and its twenty magical short stories.And it couldn't have arrived at a more perfect week in my time challenged life - these shorts were just the thing to allow me to sneak in a few short reads when I really 'should' have been doing something else.

While I am more of a paranormal romance reader, many of these romances had paranormal elements and I recognized a fair number of authors. I didn't sit down and read the book end to end - I jumped around and read the stories by the authors I knew first - so I am not sure if that would have changed my perceptions of the stories.My favorites were by Cat Adams, Jenna Maclaine, Nadia Williams, Sue Ellen-Wolfender and Penelope Neri, and I found a few new favorite authors I'll have to explore more.

Overall most of the stories fell between a 4 (I liked it) 3.5 (it was pretty good) and 4.5 (I really liked it) but there were a couple of 3's (just ok). There is a good mix of historical and fantasy stories, most with a touch of myth magical and love.

1. "The Blue Pebble" - Shirley Kennedy - When Evleen leaves Ireland for magicless England she vows to cast no spells, even when honor trumps love and there looks to be no happily ever after for Evleen -This was a nice little lead off for the anthology, both leads are appealing and I was rooting for a way for love to prevail over the strictures of regency England (4 stars)

2 "The Ballad of Rosamunde" - Claire Delacroix - Woven around a bard's poem, is the story of pirate Rosamunde. Padraig laments the loss of the woman he had secretly loved. But when Padraig discovers that Rosamunde is not dead, he will brave the faerie realm to rescue her and maybe win another chance to share his heart - This story had a very classic feel, alternating a stanza of the ballad with the real story of Padraig and Rosamunde, but I really just do not care for this style and the back and forth (and hated italics) broke up the flow of the story too much for me to enjoy the tale (2.5 stars - I didn't care for it)

3. "The Oracle" - Margo Maguire - Ana is on the brink of taking her vow of chastity and becoming Oracle to her magical race, when she sees a vision of dark forces stirring up strife on earth. Ana will choose to leave her magical dimension to stop the impending war on the earthly plane because she has 'seen' that she has a part to play.- This is apparently a story connected to Maguires' Druzai Warriors series and I liked it well enough that I would check out the stories of Ana's cousins. (4 stars - I liked it )

4. "The Trials of Brian Murphy" - Cat Adams (Aka CT Adams and Cathy Clamp) -When Brian's half Fae wife is stolen from the human world by Fae raiders, Brian will risk death to follow her to the Faerie realm rather than live without the woman he loves -I really liked this one, even in the quick setup of the story Adams' conveyed the depth of Brian's relationship with his wife, and the trial he faces to win her freedom was well done. (5 stars)

5. "Nia and the Beast of Killarney Wood" - Fleeing her father's men who are delivering her to a convent, Nia falls into an inescapable pit with an unknown companion.In the dark they discover that neither is the 'ugly beast' that think themselves to be - Short but sweet, this is a nicetwist on the beauty and the beast romance theme and I liked that the pair offer each other a new beginning and an end to loneliness. (4.5 stars)

6. "Beyond the Veil" - Patricia Rice - Mortally wounded and finding his wife dead on her birthing bed, Finn makes a plea to a goddess to spare his newborn son. - There are many wonderful elements in this story, but this really needed to be a much longer story to take advantage of them and to be truly satisfying (3.5 stars - it was pretty good)

7. "Shifter Made" - Jennifer Ashley" - This is a prequel to Ashley's Shifters Unbound series - Shifter Niall, is forced to forge a magical sword for the hated Fae as ransom for his kidnapped children.-This is the story of the forging of the Guardian's sword which plays a part in the Pride Mates, but the story stands well apart from the series and vice versa. It has a good set up and a good end but it is too short to have a satisfying middle - the starring pair just jump from being enemies to being more. (3.5 stars )

8. "Daughter of the Sea" - Kathleen Givens - From childhood Murin and Conlan had been inseparable, despite the fact that he was a woodcutter's son and she a princess, and they have vowed to be together always. When Murin's evil stepmother casts a spell to keep Conlan from her forever, Murin must travel to the Kingdom Beneath the Sea and face three trials to set her lover free - This one was a classic faery tale type story (4 stars)

9. "The Warrior" - Jenna Maclaine -After centuries together, hate, love and betrayal lie between the goddess of war and her finest warrior - I am not familiar enough with the legends of Morrigan and Cuchulainn to know how much of a spin Maclaine put on this, but I really liked the story of the history between the pair. (4.5 stars - this was one of my favorites)

10. "Eternal Strife" - Dara England - Trespassing in magical territories, a young woman bargains her life away to gather the ingredients for a magical cure, but how will she be able to pay the price? - The pieces of legend, the enchanted forest, fairy ring and merrow(fae waterfolk) lake elements,along with the final fate of the heroine, give this story the feel of a real Irish fairy tale .(2.5 stars - the story just didn't appeal to me)

11. "Quicksilver" - Cindy Holby (aka Colby Hodge) - A warrior pulls a half drowned Fae woman from the sea, but when her former jailor arrives to retrieve his prisoner, the warrior's skills alone won't be enough to defeat her legendary captor - fitting in some steamy stuff seemed a bit forced, but the premise and the warrior were appealing (3.5 stars)

12. "The Feast of Beauty" - Helen Scott Taylor - Kate finds magic and love in a trip to her grandmother's homeland -I was hoping for a story a bit more connected to Taylor's Magic Ring series, perhaps the third brother from Phoenix Charm, but this story offers a similar feel in a speed dating format. (4 stars)

13. "Compeer" - Roberta Gellis - Warrior Ailill who is besotted with Maeb's strength, brains and beauty aids the Fae and wins a boon to help him court her - I liked both of the leads, Maeb who doesn't meekly accept the fate foisted upon her by duty and Ailill who's knowledge of how one must deal with the Fae helps to win him his heart's desire (4 stars)

14. "On Inishmore" - Ciar Cullen - Cursed to spend equal time as maid and crone, Maeve falls for the new master of the house even though she knows that only heartache lies ahead - I liked the hero Brian who is kind to Maeve's crotchety alter ego and whose heart is big enough to break the curse (4 stars)

15. "Morrigan's Daughter" - Susan Krinard - With uncharacteristic mercy, a warrior maiden pleads to a goddess to save an enemy's life. - This is another story with great elements, that just needed to be a bit longer to work as a romance (3 stars)

16. "Tara's Find" - Nadia Williams - An archaelogist on a dig makes a surprising discovery - In the end this story was too short and to move the romance along it makes some leaps, so it would have been nice if it were longer. But the initial part of the story with Tara and her 'find' grabbed me to an extent that still I really liked the story, even though I would to have liked for Williams to have been able it to finish Tara's story as strongly as it started out (4.5 stars)

17. "The Skrying Glass" - Penelope Neri - Seeing a vision as a child of her groom's death on their wedding day, Shoban vows to never marry. - I liked this one for Shoban's secret magical nature and for the gorgeous groom-to-be who Shoban fears she will lose much too soon (4 stars)

18. "The Houndmaster" - Sandra Newgent - As a child Branna's mother is murdered by hounds, now grown-up she seeks a magical object lost during the attack. Her search brings her to Devlin on his last night as a mortal. - Devlin's struggle with his attraction to Branna and his impending fate appealed to me (4 stars)

19. "The Seventh Sister" - Sue-Ellen Welfonder - The magic of Ireland calls to Maggie and, on vacation there, she loses her heart to the country and to the gorgeous Conall. - I liked Maggie's struggle between the practical and the haunting draw of what she's left behind and also the bit of magical help she needs to win her a HEA (4 stars)

20. "By the Light of My Heart" - Pat McDermott - A young man goes to Faery to rescue a healer, and then wakes up and meets her again in the normal world - so was his trip to Faery just a dream? -This story starts promising enough, but once the rescue is accomplished it looses its magic as the characters resume their mundane lives and for me it just fizzles (2.5 stars - it didn't dislike it, but I didn't like it either)
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Product Description
The stories from bedtime fairy tales are not just for children.Enjoy inspirational romance woven around beloved fairy tale themes in contemporary settings from authors Irene B. Brand, Lynn Coleman, Yvonne Lehman, and Gail Gaymer Martin. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

Fairy Tales Modernized with a Christian undertone
There are four short stories in th book, each one LOOSELY based on a fairy tale.If you like fairy tales and Christian literature, than this is a book for you!

The first story is based on Beauty and the Beast.My favorite story in the book! It isn't a beast under a magical spell though, he has scares on his face from an accident.The girl is called Beauty and she is working at the house of the beast for her father who just suffered a stroke. Find out the details of why her family is poor? And what are "the beast's" secrets!

The second story is based on the Elves and the Shoemaker.There is a new shoemaker in town and he is having trouble keeping up with the orders.He has an accident with this woman and a surfboard, and when he comes into work and ten orders are completed he begins to think he suffered some memory loss from the accident.Does he have a secret helper? or is he losing his mind?

The third story resembles Snowwhite and the Seven Drawfs.Lily White is applying for a new job at an advertising agency.The agency turns out to be a big family with many characters, one thats really grumpy, another always telling jokes, and so on. . . She feels an attraction for her boss but it is obvious he is involved romantically with a client who used to be a model.Does she stand a chance at winning his heart? Should she even try? Who is in love with the former model?

The last story resembles Little Red Riding Hood and it takes place in Germany!!! How fun! This book has the heaviest christian undertones of the four and involves a rekindling of a romance with an exfiance who had no religious values before.Who is the "wolf" in this story?

If you don't want to read stories that contain scriptures and talk of God, than these stories are not for.But I highly recommend this book as a wonderful Christian example a love mixed in with a few of everyones favorite fairy tales.

Lacks enchantment and reality
And yes, you can have both in a story. The stories here attempt to be two things: retold fairy tales and Christian dramas. For the most part, they fail miserably at both. Fairy tales, in their true form, are stories that feature very hard lessons about life and realistic portrayals of human nature. This book, however, delivers only a huge cast of syrupy characters and happy endings sweet enough to give you cavities. I love a light-hearted fairy tale, but shouldn't it feature realistic characters?

These stories are only fairy tales in the Disney sense, possibly even less than that, as Disney at least doesn't shy away from producing believably harsh plights. As for the "Christian" aspect, when did a bunch of old-fashioned people get together and decide that Christian stories could only be G-rated and fluffy? Christians live in the real world too, folks! We're right here with everyone else on the planet, not floating on a pink cloud blithely unaware of the messy world beneath. This book failed the "realistic Christian" aspect in many ways, mainly characterization.

Most of the heroines here are totally innocent "good girls" who are happily aware of their salvation in Christ and happily unaware of how cruel the world can be sometimes; they prove this by shrinking away like wounded does whenever something hurts them. Granted, some of the heroines are more like this than others, but they all seem to have their purity printed on their T-shirts. They hardly ever get angry and when they do, it's usually an infuriatingly "rightous" anger; if by any chance they're unreasonably angry like normal humans, they repent of it immediately, thus showing just how Christian they are. The book, in fact, tries way too hard to promote Christianity. Have you noticed that if you try to witness to someone by preaching your head off, they're more likely to run away than listen to you? Here's a little secret: preachiness in writing has the same result.

The only story I liked was "The Shoemaker's Daughter", a cute comedy with a spunky heroine who actually comes close to losing her temper a few times and doesn't mention God's name every few sentences. The worst story is "Better to See you", which is packed with narrow-minded, old-fashioned messages about how Christians should live and a heroine who manages to be both sharp-tongued and goody-two-shoed.Here are a few of the faulty lessons this story tries to teach:

1) Lying is always wrong, even if you're lying to protect yourself from a con-artist who could be dangerous.

2) The life of a starving artist is a filthy and immoral one; anyone who attempts this path will find unfulfillment and sorrow until they repent of it.

3) Since the Bible says that the love of money is the root of all evil, if you love money, you are unquestionably evil as well.

This last ridiculous statement had me doubting that the author has any idea of what true evil is. It's certainly not a label to be used loosely! Sure, greed is bad, but if you compare it to crimes like rape and serial killing, I think it would pale in comparison.

Needless to say, I recommend you skip this book. Give Liz Curtis Higgs and Francine Rivers a try instead; they offer Christian passion as well as a good dose of reality.

I THOURGHLY ENJOYED THIS BOOK!!!
If you enjoy Christian romances and fairy tales set in modern day settings this is the perfect book for you!It includes four different books by four authors.
1.Rose for Beauty by Irene B. Brand
(My favorite of the four)
2.Shoemaker's Daughter by Lynn A Coleman
3.Lily's Plight by Yvonne Lehman
4.Better to See You by Gail Gaymer Martin

I ENJOYED THIS BOOK TREMENDOUSLY!!!
ONCE UPON A TIME is a wonderful success as Barbour Publishing authors tackle old time fairytales with contemporary plots and settings. I have really enjoyed reading all four novellas in this book and know that if you try them, you'll be "enchanted" as well! A great read and a wonderful time if inspirational romances are your favorites!

Threw the book away - and I never throw books away.
If I had wanted Bible thumping, I'd have bought a Bible.I thought I was getting a fairy tale, but was instead getting a good Christian book produced by a Bible company full of scriptures.
Not what I thought I was buying.There's a place for everything and I'd rather people be more up front in their advertising. ... Read more

Product Description
When a Confederate platoon is unable to return to its Florida militia base, it camps down in an old, dilapidated plantation house. The men soon discover the presence of a young beautiful widow, considered a witch by the locals because of her natural healing talents and her uncanny ability to "see" things others cannot. Captivated by this mysterious woman, the platoon's doctor refuses to abandon her, despite her Union sympathies. Heedless of the conflict raging around them, the couple will discover a love which cannot be denied. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (27)

Not as good as expected...
While I totally love Heather Graham, and this series inparticular, there was something missing in this book. I thought she could have explored Julian and Rhiannon's relationship better. It sort of felt like the book was written because she had to put something in with Julian to continue the series. I just think it could have been way better. There were parts of this book that explained a few things from other books in the series for me (I didn't manage to read them in order of course!) , it still did not draw me in the way that Rebel and Triumph, and basically the rest of the series, did. I do however love the way she describes the scenes as if you were there. She is probably one of the best authors regarding Civil War Romance. Just not this particular book.

Rebel and Glory are must read books
I first read Glory and then read Rebel.I loved both of them. I can't wait to start from the first and read to Heather Grahams latest of the MacKenzie family "Triumph". Each are so accurate in history detail during the civil war. The detail of events make you feel as if you are standing right there while it happens. And the romance just make you want to swoon.Lordy me!

You have to read these books!

"Glory" is splendid!!
This time, the doctor and the psychic meet."Glory" is Julian McKenzie's story.Julian is Ian's brother, Jerome's cousin, James' nephew, and Jarrett's son.Oh hhh, the McKenzie men are fine!!

"Glory" is about Julian and the woman he falls in love with, Rhiannon Tremaine.There story is delightful and romantic.Julian certainly equals the standard of the McKenzies.

the man with to much arogance and the witch doctor
Glory is yet another of the books I could read two or three times.Heather Graham puts out a terrific performance about the love of the rebel doctor Julian McKenzie and a woman branded a witch becuase of her healingpowers and her ability to see.It also starts out the good parts of Sydney& Jesse, and Brent & mary.I like the fact that she uses thebattle of Gettysburg as the peak of the book.I live a few minutes fromGettysburg and it was neat to compare the book with the information I couldfind there.I suggest everyone read the McKenzie saga and the Cameronsaga, both are about the Civil War and the Seminole War.

Glory by Heather Graham - A disappointment!
Disappointing is a very gracious word! Heather Graham usually pens a more vibrant heroine and hero. Yet for some reason I could not come to terms with Rhiannon. She was 'bland', depicted as etheral, mysterious, yet,nothing about her character exemplified those traits in the novel. Sheconstantly wore mourning black even while married to a very live and viralman. The way Graham describes her, I always seem to picture 'Morticia' ofthe 'Adams Family', particualy when Angelica Huston portrayed the character'Morticia' in the movie. It was very difficult for me to 'like' Rhiannon.There were several other heroines of Graham writing 'Shannon Drake' that Ididn't particularly enjoy, however, Graham's 'McKenzies' normally marriedsensuous Rebel or Yankee 'spitfires', and Rhiannon failed to fit into thiscatergory. The novel itself was a combination of several novels. There weretoo many stories combined to make up 'Glory'. The story of Jesse andSydney, which was introduced in 'Surrender', was fiery enough to create anovel of their own tumultuous affair. And Jesse's character changed in'Glory'. In 'Surrender', Jesse was a 'a typical' hero, strong, possessive,reckless with his own life, but protective of those he cared for. In'Glory', Jesse seemed 'too young', too soft in my opinion. I kept expectinghim to say to someone that he assisted putting Sydney in 'Old Capitol'prison to keep her safe during the war and that is where she should haveremained. Yet he claimed he had an undying love for her, but where did itdevelop? If I was the author of 'Glory', Sydney and Jesse's affair wouldhave began the moment he kidnapped her in 'Surrender' and of course, a spinoff of their own novel, commencing with Jesse forcing Sydney to leaveJerome and her later awaking on his couch after being kidnapped. I failedto see how sending Brent McKenzie to a veneral disease research centercould be considered interesting enough to the readers. It failed tointerest me. Yes, I'm aware that veneral disease killed many soldiersduring the Civil War and it is still running rampant today, however, avaluable talented physician wasted his talent being sarcastic to a womanwhom was just as sarcastic to him, while caring for very ill patients, oneof whom was her father! If Brent and Mary are going to be the next majorcharacters in the McKenzie saga, I can't see where his experience in an1860s CDC will spin off a romantic sequel. And where is Jennifer? Has sherecovered from grieving for her spouse, or was she on the verge of becomingslightly mentally unstable - or will she ever experience love andfriendship with a male again. On the positive side, Heather Graham gavegraphic details of the medical units responsibilities and the conditionsthat existed during the Civil War. The military strategic maneuvers of bothGenerals Lee and Meade were outstanding. And Julien was a likeable hero,even though he was portrayed harder and colder than either Ian or Jerome.All and all, 'Glory' lacked the excitement and sensuality of both 'Rebel'and 'Surrender', but again, gave valuable historical insight into the dailylives of medical units under fire. My favorite line from the book is whereIan questioned Julian's position as a physician under fire and Julianresponded, "they shoot at me, I shoot back"! ... Read more

Product Description
The artistry of renowned lithographers Currier & Ives captures the beauty and nostalgia of simpler days and Christmases past. Yet, while a picture may be worth a thousand words, there are times when even the best illustrations leave viewers with a yearning to know more. Inspired by the classic American art of Currier & Ives, these seasonal love stories delve deep inside the artists' portrayals to imagine and illustrate the untold tales behind each wintry scene. Look beyond the art to discover the heartwarming stories of holiday love of yesteryear in A Currier & Ives Christmas. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Charming Holiday Reading

A delightful anthology of Christian romances by four very talented writers. The four novellas tell wholesome, heartwarming stories of holiday love in Currier & Ives classic American art settings.

DREAMS AND SECRETS by DiAnn Mills tells of the tender romance between Emma Leigh Carter and Thad Benson, who work together at the Jones Inn outside Philadelphia in the 1850s. Thad struggles with his dream of medical school and his growing attraction to Emma. Emma puts aside her feelings for Thad because she must help her family during her father's illness. Then Emma oversees a Christmas gift exchange for the Inn's owner and Thad draws her name. In her marvelous easy-to-read storytelling style, DiAnn Mills blends the young couple's faith and their tender love into an enchanting story that will warm the heart of readers from eight to eighty-eight.

Lynn A. Coleman's THE SNOW STORM sets the love story of Angela Harris and Michael Farley in the middle of a blizzard and uses the holiday season to draw the lovers together.

JoAnn A. Grote offers a delightful glimpse of life after the Civil War in her IMAGE OF LOVE as she tells how Lane Powell softens Mantie Clark's resolve never to love again after losing her love and one of her brothers in the war.

Deborah Raney's CIRCLE OF BLESSING centers on a family holiday tradition. Ms Raney's heroine Stella Bradford is determined to win the love of James Collingwood, her University professor with a dark secret in his past. You'll receive a blessing along with Stella and James.

A CURRIER & IVES CHRISTMAS would be a wonderful addition to anyone's library and a great holiday gift.

I also highly recommend MAIL ORDER HUSBAND by DiAnn Mills and BENEATH A SOUTHERN SKY by Deborah Raney.

Perfect holiday gift for any reader on your list!

A delightful anthology of Christian romances by four very talented writers. The four novellas tell wholesome, heartwarming stories of holiday love in Currier & Ives classic American art settings.

DREAMS AND SECRETS by DiAnn Mills tells of the tender romance between Emma Leigh Carter and Thad Benson, who work together at the Jones Inn outside Philadelphia in the 1850s. Thad struggles with his dream of medical school and his growing attraction to Emma. Emma puts aside her feelings for Thad because she must help her family during her father's illness. Then Emma oversees a Christmas gift exchange for the Inn's owner and Thad draws her name. In her marvelous easy-to-read storytelling style, DiAnn Mills blends the young couple's faith and their tender love into an enchanting story that will warm the heart of readers from eight to eighty-eight.

Lynn A. Coleman's THE SNOW STORM sets the love story of Angela Harris and Michael Farley in the middle of a blizzard and uses the holiday season to draw the lovers together.

JoAnn A. Grote offers a delightful glimpse of life after the Civil War in her IMAGE OF LOVE as she tells how Lane Powell softens Mantie Clark's resolve never to love again after losing her love and one of her brothers in the war.

Deborah Raney's CIRCLE OF BLESSING centers on a family holiday tradition. Ms Raney's heroine Stella Bradford is determined to win the love of James Collingwood, her University professor with a dark secret in his past. You'll receive a blessing along with Stella and James.

A CURRIER & IVES CHRISTMAS would be a wonderful addition to anyone's library and a great holiday gift.

I also highly recommend you include MAIL ORDER HUSBAND by DiAnn Mills and BENEATH A SOUTHERN SKY by Deborah Raney when you purchase this book. ... Read more

Product Description
When three spirited young women succeed in seducing three notorious rogues who knows what complications will ensue, what passions will be stirred - or whose hearts will be captured. This book contains three love stories in one volume. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

Entertaining Read
It's always hard to judge a novella in an anthology as the author has to make them fall in love believably in like, say, 60+ pages.So it's not always a bang-up read.However, it's a good way to find out about a new author that you've never read (on another thought, a novella probably will not do them justice).

Leslie Madl's story of Tony and Eden was the best of the lot - not surprising since it also seems to be the longest.In the midst of having a delicious surreptitious affair, they fall in love.The fact that they have to sneak around (her, a vicar's spinster daughter, and, him, a widely known libertine) is the delicious part and what the hero had to do to keep their secret (and her reputation intact) is a treat.

Debbie Raleigh's story was middling.Since it started out as the H/H having known each other since children (they have to - they can't just meet and fall in love in such a short amount of time!), its believability level is higher than the usual novella.However, the way the hero was attracted to the heroine in the utmost darkness but not in the light of day, sort of ruined the whole thing.But not completely - he very handsomely explains the sudden attraction in the end.

Two out of three isn't bad and definitely an entertaining read.

Sheer Romantic Fun
This review first appeared in the Lyons Mirror-Sun in a book review column written by Mary Connealy
One Night With a Rogue - She was doomed....doomed to die, but not before being ravished....Suddenly...a dark stranger on a magnificent steed burst out from the thickness of the black forest. An excerpt from Lady Jane's Lover
It makes me smile just to read that line. It's so classic.
Lady Jane's Lover is a perfect, fun romance novel. A damsel in distress, a rogue with hero tendencies, a twist in their lives that traps them together, alone - lonely - attracted. Can love be far behind? Candace McCarthy puts her hero and heroine into the path of oncoming love and no force in nature can stop it. And why would it want to?
Beyond Temptation by Linda Madl takes a slightly different approach to romance. Meet Eden, the vicar's daughter, and Tony, the dallying Viscount. Never could there be a more unlikely pair. This damsel is not in distress, she finds herself resigned to a life of spinsterhood, carrying for her aging father.
She is willing to give her life to this duty, no complaints. But she wonders what she will be missing,and she boldly asks Viscount Romleigh to show her. Romleigh satisfies her curiosity, and himself. But, even as they part ways, both know once will never be enough. I emailed Linda Madl about this anthology. She replied, "From the day THE SCOTSMAN'S LADY was released, readers started asking me for Tony Derrington's story.So, when I was asked to write a story for this Rogue collection, I knew this would be Tony's story.With Eden being such a warm-hearted free spirit, Tony's roguedom was sure to perish."
Night of Seduction by Debbie Raleigh is about Charity, who has taken it upon herself to save her childhood friend. Anthony has sunken into drink and depression after the death of his younger brother. Charity, plain in looks and speech, and not interested in changing, can't shake him out of it. But, a chance meeting on a foggy night, with a mystery maiden, re-awakens Anthony's interest in life. Charity has to beguile Anthony in the night to keep him from lapsing back into his self-destructive ways, then sit inches away from the big lout during the day as he goes on ecstatically about his new love.
Charity knows she can't let the charade go on, but she has been in love with Anthony all her life. What harm could there be in stealing a few moments of pleasure for herself.
What harm indeed?
The whole book is charming and fun to read. One Night With a Rogue is definitely Worth Reading.

Things that make you go "Ahhh"...
First story is titled "Lady Jane's Lover" by Candace McCarthy.

Jane Graham never expected Catherine to elope and abandon her. But that was exactly what happened. As much as she dreaded it, Jane would have to return home and inform her uncle, Earl Hamilton, that his daughter had eloped. Yet while traveling home she was set upon by highwaymen and rescued by Broc Lawson, the handsome nobleman she had adored for so long. Since Broc had been injured while rescuing her, Jane found shelter and began to tend him. Sooner or later the earl would send out a search party. However, being so close to Broc made her want more.

Second story is titled "Beyond Temptation" by Linda Madl.

Eden was the youngest of the Vicar's seven daughters and had chosen to act as his caretaker. Knowing she would never marry, she chose "Tony" (a.k.a. Viscount Romleigh), to be her lover and give her one night to treasure forever. Once done they would part with no regrets. Eden never expected Tony to follow her to the remote little village of Hadding Green.

Third story is titled "Night Of Seduction" by Debbie Raleigh.

Charity Malone had loved Anthony, Lord Caldwell, for years. He had grown up as her neighbor and friend. When his younger brother died in a duel, Anthony blamed himself. He began drinking heavily and sinking into depression. Charity feared what he planned to do with his dueling pistol and decided to steal it during the night, then bury it in the garden. But Anthony caught the feminine figure in his garden. She was veiled in mystery and cloaked in darkness. He thought of her as a fair wood sprite, created of mists and moonlight, just for him. The mystical encounter snapped him out of his depression and he looked forward to seeing her each midnight. Charity, though, decided to let herself have on night with Anthony and then let his mystery woman disappear forever.

***** Needless to say, THIS BOOK ROCKS! Each story is downright enthralling. In fact, delightful dreams can not help but happen if you go to bed shortly after reading any one of these tales. This novel will be forever labeled under the file, "Things that make you go 'Ahhhh'." *****

Things that make you go "Ahhh"...
First story is titled "Lady Jane's Lover" by Candace McCarthy.

Jane Graham never expected Catherine to elope and abandon her. But that was exactly what happened. As much as she dreaded it, Jane would have to return home and inform her uncle, Earl Hamilton, that his daughter had eloped. Yet while traveling home she was set upon by highwaymen and rescued by Broc Lawson, the handsome nobleman she had adored for so long. Since Broc had been injured while rescuing her, Jane found shelter and began to tend him. Sooner or later the earl would send out a search party. However, being so close to Broc made her want more.

Second story is titled "Beyond Temptation" by Linda Madl.

Eden was the youngest of the Vicar's seven daughters and had chosen to act as his caretaker. Knowing she would never marry, she chose "Tony" (a.k.a. Viscount Romleigh), to be her lover and give her one night to treasure forever. Once done they would part with no regrets. Eden never expected Tony to follow her to the remote little village of Hadding Green.

Third story is titled "Night Of Seduction" by Debbie Raleigh.

Charity Malone had loved Anthony, Lord Caldwell, for years. He had grown up as her neighbor and friend. When his younger brother died in a duel, Anthony blamed himself. He began drinking heavily and sinking into depression. Charity feared what he planned to do with his dueling pistol and decided to steal it during the night, then bury it in the garden. But Anthony caught the feminine figure in his garden. She was veiled in mystery and cloaked in darkness. He thought of her as a fair wood sprite, created of mists and moonlight, just for him. The mystical encounter snapped him out of his depression and he looked forward to seeing her each midnight. Charity, though, decided to let herself have on night with Anthony and then let his mystery woman disappear forever.

***** Needless to say, THIS BOOK ROCKS! Each story is downright enthralling. In fact, delightful dreams can not help but happen if you go to bed shortly after reading any one of these tales. This novel will be forever labeled under the file, "Things that make you go 'Ahhhh'." *****

A little reality please -
Generally I enjoy anthologies and am willing to forgo deep character development which is not something that is easily done in the shorter format of 90 to 120 pages or so. Also, I am partial to "rogues" - so why the two star rating? I found myself very bothered by the lack of understanding of the Regency period displayed to some extent by all the authors!

**Lady Jane's Lover - Candace McCarthy**- Jane Graham, niece of an Earl, acting as his daughter's companion, is stranded when said daughter runs away with the "coachman"! Ambushed and then rescued by a passing horseman who is wounded in the action- the rest of the story involves Jane nursing her rescuer back to health in a convenient (and unexplained) well stocked empty "cottage". Turns out she knew him from her childhood. I actually liked Jane and Broc and enjoyed their relationship - however I found it impossible to believe that 1) Broc (son of a Baron) had been cast off by his father because of an amorous adventure (his father might have paid her off IF he believed her) that 2) Jane would not have been severely blamed for her cousin's actions by her aunt and uncle and 3) that said cousin would expect ever to be forgiven for her action, let alone be accepted..... ah well. Plus titles were a bit muddled. (one star)

**Beyond Temptation - Linda Madl** - Eden Roseby youngest of seven daughters of a clergyman has (as the youngest) been Chosen to care for her clergyman father in his old age. Arranges a single night of passion with an initially reluctant "rake" - Anthony, Viscount Romleigh. The romance between Anthony and Eden is well done; Eden's father is unexpectedly intriguing and likeable. Problem? Mr Roseby is the brother of a Duke - so he is really the Rev Lord James Roseby - why doesn't he use his title? Never explained. Also the villain of the piece is the local baronet who controls the vicar's living and threatens him with losing it. I don't think so!!! If one's brother was a Duke, the ducal family would have arranged the living! Just do away with this connection and the story would be a lot more believable. The "duel" is a treat!!! (two stars)

**Night of Seduction - Debbie Raleigh** - Charity Malone, spinster daughter to a scholar, long time friend to Anthony Lord Caldwell - occasional neighbor (when he wants to escape society) wants to find a way to comfort him when he starts drinking heavily and threatening suicide on blaming himself for his younger brother's death. She accidentally catches his attention when he finds her in his garden "veiled in the mist" and doesn't recognize her.... Once I could get beyond the improbability that Charity and Anthony had ever developed a friendship - this is a pretty good read. Charity's background and situation (as daughter staying at home to care for her father) are realistic and matter of fact; also Charity recognizes her feelings for Anthony are largely (in the beginning) based on the fact that she has met no other really eligible gentlemen. She also has a perfectly good reason for sneaking through Anthony's garden in the dead of night! (three and a half stars) ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Highly recommended
MY FUNNY VALENTINE presents three heart-warming stories to bring a smile, or perhaps a tear, to the holiday. Authors Peggy Daniels, Allison Knight and Deborah Matthews bring their lovely talent together in this trio of treats certain to sweeten the approaching holiday.

CAN I CALL YOU SWEEETHEART? By Peggy Daniels: Four years ago Nicholas Parish left to fight in the Civil War, practically leaving Amber Wade at the altar on Valentine's Day. Now he returns to learn that his sweetheart married his brother and has a son. A tender, evocative tale certain to pluck the heartstrings, CAN I CALL YOU SWEETHEART copes with the pain of abandonment and the sweetness of learning to trust.

WINTER ROSES by Allison Knight: Gavin Sinclair is determined to thwart his younger brother's plans for elopement after the Valentine's ball. He thinks he's kidnapped the bride, but he really has the bride's older sister. WINTER ROSES is a charming regency romance that deftly breaks the rules of society in the most delightful manner.

BE MINE by Deborah Matthews: The Earl of Valentine curses the fool that gave his family their name. Even worse, his Aunt Cupid capitalizes upon her name by bringing lonely hearts together. Val makes a wager with his cousin that he can escape the marriage altar, but finds himself struck by Cupid's arrow aimed from an unlikely direction. A delectable, playful treat, BE MINE brings a comic chuckle to this collection.

Evocative, endearing, and tender, this collection is highly recommended. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

A Romance with taste
Ms Rose gives a new and exciting twist to the typical romance of small town girl meets big city boy with her tale of Eden's Garden. Eden wants to go home to Peru but is stuck in Chicago.Jack needs the treasure Eden's father promised him to save his failing restaurant.Neither gets what they expected.The growth of both characters is nicely done and the romance is charming.

A Modern Fairy Tale
Eden's Garden reminds me of a modern day fairy tale. Ms. Rose paints apastel picture of a sleeping beauty and a dark prince who together make itpossible for both to have a life neither could have separately. This bookis a real charmer.

A real page turner!
I found Eden's Garden to be a wonderful romance! There is a bit of Peruvian culture mixed in with everyday life of Chicago restaurant owner Jack Talon. Eden Ramirez comes from the Andes, and clashes with the rest ofthe Chicagoens, but still finds a way to fit in.

I found Ms. Rose'scharacters to be real life, with real problems and accomplishments of theirown. Not only Jack and Eden, but the secondary characters as well.

Thisstory is well written and will keep your interest. The plot was great, andthe humor the author throws in is refreshing. I found myself not wanting toput it down.

Pick it up - you'll be happy you did.

Great new author's first book is a wonderfully exotic trip!
New author Elizabeth Rose's first book, Eden's Garden, is being published by Genesis Press in their Tango 2 line in June. Tango 2 is described by Genesis as their "foray into the sizzling world of Latinromance." Certainly Eden's Garden, with a Peruvian heroine and plentyof sexual sizzle, fits nicely into that category.

Eden made her firstjourney to the U.S. from the mountains of Peru at the bequest of her dyingAmerican father, Professor Jonathan Starke. Although Jonathan visited Edenevery summer in Peru and toured Machu Pichu and other sites of Peru withher, he never married her mother or lived with them as a family. Eden'smother was part of the Incan world; they do not welcome strangers and onlymarry others of their tribe.

Eden, who has never felt completely a partof that world, is somewhat overwhelmed by the world of her father,especially after his death. On his deathbed, her father bequeaths to herhis bible and asks her to deliver a small sack to Jack Talon, to whomJonathan owes money. In addition, he tells Eden that Jack will take care ofher.

When Jack learns that Jonathan has died and left him nothing but thecare of his Peruvian daughter, he is livid. He is trying to prove himselfto be a competent businessman in his father's eyes. When he loaned moneyfrom his father's restaurant to Jonathan Starke, he considered it aninvestment which would not only make him more money, but show his fatherhow shrewd he'd become. Instead, Jonathan is dead, his money has beengambled away, and Jack is left with the responsibility of his Incandaughter.

Elizabeth has added quite a bit of humor to this story startingwith it's not-too- subtle resemblance to the Jack and the bean stalk fable,and enhanced by Jack's reaction to Eden's native costume mistaken beliefthat Eden cannot speak English.Jack is a pseudo-bad boy with a heart ofgold; he can't help himself from taking in strays, be they animals orhumans.However, he is desperate to prove to his father, and moreimportantly, to himself that he is smart and capable enough to take overrunning the restaurant business.

Eden has grown up in a culture so farremoved from downtown Chicago that it is almost as if she has travelledthrough time from her dirt-poor, mountain farming village. Although sheknows nothing of the restaurant business, she is a good judge of people anda loving person herself, so she is able to help Jack in the most unexpectedof ways. The chemistry between these two, bolstered by the humor in theirrelationship, is captivating. Regardless of where they end up or what theydo, you can truly believe that these two very different individuals willlive happily ever after. Great work, Elizabeth! Copyright 2000, Barb's AllRomance Book Store

A splash of culture, a lot of fun.
With a dash of culture and a lot of class, Peruvian Eden Ramirez turns spoiled rich guy Jack Talon into a likeable character. If you've never read a multi-cultural romance before, this one's a good place to start. ... Read more

Product Description
Irresistible Romance...

A not-so-harmless fib... A ruined ritual...A slip of the tongue...How will Cupid save these three delightful heroines this Valentine's Day?

Silver Links, by Shannon Donnelly Lady Olivia Duncastle fears she has destroyed her perfect marriage to the dashing diplomat Lord Duncastle when she lets slip a political secret to the wrong person. Only the magical power of the perfect Valentine can save their love...

The Valentine Husband, by Alice Holden To avoid an arranged marriage, Jenny Markham invents a seduction designed to ruin her good name. But then the supposed seducer suddenly appears—with an unexpected scheme of his own...

At First Sight, by Joy Reed Miss Phoebe Fairchild's intricately laid plans to have Mr. Randolph Harris be the first man she sees on Valentine's Day--thus becoming her future husband--are crushed when a handsome stranger opens her eyes...and her heart... ... Read more

Product Description
A collection of stories celebrating the diversity of the holiday season. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

book review
It was ok, I was a little disappointed. I thought the stories could have had more content to them. I wish I could have review the stories before I bought the book.

three whimsical second chance tales
"A Change of Heart" by Farrah Rochon.Chandra and Derek are ending their marriage with one last family gathering with their kids at the Holiday Inn.They arrive before their children do, but a snowstorm isolates them together away from their kids.

"Can You Believe" by Stefanie Worth White.Naymond wants to be a star so he can give his wife Fallon material items that they cannot afford right now.Fallon wants her husband not this person who has no time for her while he chases stardom.The Spirit of Christmas visits this unhappy couple at the Holiday Inn to show each of them a dismal lonely future alone.

"By New Year's Day" by Phyllis Bourne Williams.Devon is making a Hail Mary pass to save his marriage though he knows he will need a miracle.He takes his Eve on a romantic retreat to the Holiday Inn where none of their adult kids can make demands on their mom.

With a nod to It's A Wonderful Life, these three whimsical second chances uses the magic of the HOLIDAY INN to rekindle lost dreams and mend broken relationships.The three couples are developed enough so that their differences seem real, which in turn makes each pair's scenario plausible.Well written, fans will enjoy spending time at the enchanting Holiday Inn (even without Bing).

Harriet Klausner
... Read more

Product Description
Men at Their Most Passionate

Best Gay Romance 2009 is short fiction at its finest on the subject of love--first love, true love, and love everlasting (with makeup sex, wake-up sex, and everything in between).

The romantic possibilities range from a surprising encounter between two blue-collar buddies to a brief airport rendezvous that become something more, and a reminder to us all that it is never too late for love. A self-confessed true romantic, Richard Labonté has gathered a sensational collection of stories about finding love at home, at work, at any age, and often, in the most unexpected places. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

Not romantic enough.
Not romantic enough. Too soft core for me. Want a book with more cute meets.

Great anthology
This is a great collection of stories--will keep you interested from beginning to end. Well worth the purchase. Lots of good authors.

Wounded
In Richard Labonté's introduction to BEST GAY ROMANCE 2009, he makes mention that of all the romantic stories included in the tome, none involve marriage, even now that it is legal in Canada and some of the States.

Instead, to me, the theme that popped out among all the tales was instead the notion of the wounded. From physical wounds (T Hitman's "One," Simon Sheppard's "Coming Back to Me," and Shanna Germain's beautiful "What We Leave Behind") to emotional scarring and losses (J.M. Snyder's painful "Afflicted," and Jay Mandal's lovely "Chiaroscuro"), it seems that romance is a tale best told by those who've had loss and suffering.

This doesn't blunt the delivery, and indeed, there's a fair mix of erotic to the romantic, and there's some sweet and happy tales mixed in as well ("The Baker," by Neil Plakcy, is charmingly cute) for those who enjoy their romance with a dash of sugar.

For me, the two tales that stole the show were Jay Mandal's "Chiaroscuro" and Mark G. Harris's "As Sweet by Any Other Name." Mandal's beautiful progression through a relationship born, bloomed, and fallen, and the connection to a younger generation, was a delight to read. Harris' doughty ability to spin prose with a sly humor turns even the wounded and love-shy hero of his tale into someone you admire, and his witty plot leaves you grinning.

Delightfully sensuous!
This is now among my favorite books! I cannot tell you how many times that I have read it now! Nothing quite like that warm, fuzzy feeling, especially when you and your sweetheart are reading it together.

What is more, there is not excessive, explicit, meaningless sex thrown in your face; the sex is present, but as a vehicle for the intimacy and romance, which I find wonderfully refreshing.

Some of these stories will make you cry:

Coming Back to Me: Two boys fall in love in San Francisco in 1967, but one desires to seek success in New York qhile the other opts to stay. Twenty years pass, the one who sought New York has returned to California and is in a wheelchair when the pair is suddenly reunited.

What We Leave Behind: A couple who has volunteered to take dying, neglected dogs into their home to let them die in comfort. As the first dog dies, one of the pair dies of cancer. The owner of the current dog and the surviving partner suddenly find themselves falling in love with each other.

Chiaroscuro: A young British couple, Michael and Peter, come to an Italian village in the 1960s to teach and become much-loved by the local people. When an aged Peter dies from cancer, a despondent Michael finds healing in the friendship of a young American artist, Daniel, and that of the village who have long-seen him as part of the family.

Kindred Souls: A recently-divorced, fifty-something father living in New York finds a kindred spirit in Will, a twenty-five-year-old from Belfast, Northern Ireland. Despite their age difference, they are as attracted to each other physically as emotionally. It made me sad in that Will may very much find himself alone when his love (the narrator) dies.

Afflicted: Two college boys are in love, but the depression and self-cutting of the meeker one alarms his boyfriend, who keeps urging that his sweetheart tell him what's troubling him. No, nobody dies and they stay together.

Starting Over: Taylor, smarting from a thankless career in New York and a bad breakup, moves to New Mexico to persue his dreams of painting and decides to keep his sexual life unattached... until he meets Mark, a handsome but close-mouthed man who is just as enamored of Taylor as Taylor is of him.

Sail Away: An elderly man, living in his hometown of Key West, reflects on his first love, Jimmy, of the untimely loss of his soulmate, Dag, and of the wandering, carefree life that he has lived.

Others will perk you up, even make you shriek with delight as the characters find love:

One: Lyle, a young bear working a blue-collar job, faces subtle (but obvious) harassment from his coworkers and struggles with a seemingly unreciprocated attraction to a coworker, Mike, who has recently had a testicle removed from cancer. But Lyle finds that his crush might not be one-sided... and gains an ally.

The Calimus Emotion: Love Among the Ruins: A young man in San Francisco relates his experience in San Francisco to his sweetheart in St. Louis in the aftermath of the 1906 San Francisco Earthquake.

...And these two are my favorites for when I need an emotional boost!

The Pools of Paradise: Brandon's sudden death in an accident sends him to the Afterlife... where he finds that Heaven has many differing realms, from Evangelical Heaven (where his parents and other deranged fanatics incessantly worship and sing the praises of an untouchable idol) to Gay Heaven, a paradise for gay men. All food is delicious, there are no harsh emotions, no shame, no pain... everyone is eternally young and beautiful, happy and happy to see each other. Brandon is reunited with his beloved cat, Munchie, and falls in love with Richard, who was put to death in 1620 for sodomy.

The Baker: The narrator, a recently unemployed twentysomething living in Miami walks into a little French bakery for breakfast on his way to the unemployment office and meets the baker, Jean-Pierre: a handsome, barrel-chested, jovial, and downright charming young Frenchman. The narrator lands a job as a clerk and cashier at the bakery then and there, prompting Jean-Pierre (who often gives his new clerk great bear-hugs and a peck on both cheeks) to offer dinner at his flat above the bakery, which the giddily flattered narrator accepts.

I could not have made a better pick with this book! I highly recommend this for any romantic out there!

Love in All of its Forms
Labonte, Richard (editor). "Best Gay Romance 2009", Cleis Press, 2009.

Love in All of its Forms

Amos Lassen

Cleis Press once again brings us an anthology of best gay romance stories and once again it is edited by Richard LaBonte. What a perfect collection for anyone is a romantic! This is not a collection of erotica but it is a collection of romance in all of its forms. There is something for everyone here--sweetness and sadness and everything in between. Comprised of 18 short stories, you will laugh and you will cry but above all else you will get that "warm, fuzzy feeling" that love stories give. The authors run the gamut from old voices to some brand new ones.
Simon Sheppard tells us about a wish come true while Jack Fritscher writes about love during an earthquake. Lee Houck writes of a brief passionate fling whose memory is still with him andwrites about starting over. There is a lot of love between the covers of the book and each and every story is a gem. This is a great book to give to someone you love or to keep for yourself. It is just a feel good read that gives you insight into the concept of love.
... Read more

Product Description
Peace Of Mind - Pat Pritchard. Newspaper owner Maggie Phillips packed her best fried chicken, potato salad, and a triple-decker piece of cake for the box lunch auction - and it's going, going, gone! To Malachi Jones, the editor and owner of a rival newspaper - exactly the man she hoped wouldn't bid for it. Now they'll have to spend the Fourth of July together - and sparks are sure to fly...The Four - Leaf Clover - Cheryl Bolen. Lucky - that's how Norman Sterling felt when he fell in love with beautiful Mildred Gresham. And the four - leaf clover he just found by their Fourth of July picnic blanket is a sign that their love was meant to be. He's waited six long years to propose and he won't wait a second longer...The Magical Elixir - Tracy Cozzens. Step right up, ladies and gentlemen...only one dollar a bottle. The Independence Day picnic always means good business for patent - medicine salesman Allardyce Hannigan. But one look at pretty Katie Donovan stops him in mid - spiel. If there's a cure for love at first sight, he doesn't want it... ... Read more

Customer Reviews (21)

MY BUFFALO SOLDIER
In the period following the Civil War, many African American males joined the Union Army in hopes of getting employment and national respect.They traveled west, as soldiers, to help the government claim Native American lands for the United States.During this same period, many non-military people also moved west, looking to begin new lives on the frontier.
In MY BUFFALO, it was in such a time and setting that Enid Jamison met Sergeant Nick Balfours.Nick, as a soldier, was no stranger to racism and near the end of his military tour.As a result of inheritance and keen business acumen, he'd amassed a small fortune.His plans were to leave the army, relocate to Paris, paint and live well.
Enid is a recent widow, the daughter of an abolitionist, and the sister of a Ku Klux Klan leader.She wants to get away, find peace and solitude.When rested, she plans to start teaching children and adults, without regard to their race, ethnicity, or culture.
It is under these diverse histories that these two people meet.They are attracted to each other, but the racial tensions and prohibitions of that time are both real and imagined.
MY BUFFALO SOLDIER is an excellent book with accurate historical references.It's fast paced with lots of action obstacles.It's a love story, but a whole lot more.

excelent
A wonderfull romance, exciting, fast read , romatic and very touching. I loved both Enid & Nick, would love to read the next one by Ms Reeves.

A Unique and Spellbinding Read
I met B.K. Reeves at the 2000 Golden Triangle Writer's Conference in Beaumont recently. Of all the author's offerings, her book, My Buffalo Soldier, is the one that will stick with me the longest. Many years ago B.K. wrote this interracial historical romance and the fact that has only now been published speaks to the shortsightedness of the publishing industry. I highly reccommend My Buffalo Soldier to men and woman alike. It is in no way a traditional Harlequin style romance. B.K. paints on a much larger canvas.

My Buffalo Soldier
Reeves, Barbara B.K. MY BUFFALO SOLDIER. Columbus, Mississippi: Genesis Press, Inc. 2000. 265 p. Paperback: $8.95. ISBN 1-58571-013-X

My BuffaloSoldier is a compelling story of an impossible love between a man and awoman. In 1871 when Nick Balfours feels an attraction to Enid Jamison, heknows he must ignore it. Even a century later the love between a black manand a white woman will be barely tolerated.

Fighting his heart Nickrefuses to allow Enid to teach in a black school at Fort Clark. "A whiteteacher, young and delectable, beautiful and blonde, standing up before allthose horny black soldiers" was unthinkable.

When Enid's racist brother,Paul, discovers she is teaching ignorant black soldiers, he threatens toconfine her to an asylum. Enid recognizes her own attraction to Nick. Bothstruggle to hide their longings for each other. Nick attempts to save themboth from the many opposing villians, knowing he has no business wanting awhite woman.

Just when true love seems to have conquered all, Enid'sbrother brings his gang of cutthroats to wreak vengence on those who wouldlove enough to defy customs.

The prejudice and bigotry of theReconstruction South almost defeat the love of a black Buffalo soldier fora white Confederate widow.

B.K. Reeves writes western, science fiction,contemporary, and historical novels. She teaches novel and short story atSan Jacinto College. My Buffalo Soldier is BK's sixth published novel.

My Buffalo Soldier
I must admit that I didn't have any expectations when I read "MyBuffalo Soldier".This is a story that will get you involved withoutknowing it.It's fun! And, it will knock you over with it's contrast ofsensitivity and brutality set against a backdrop of life in West Texasafter the Civil War.And, there is always an underlying tension that ispertinent to today's society because the main characters are a black,educated Union soldier and a white Confederate widow who try to avoidfalling in love.This is a story about a dangerous relationship and loveis the catalyst. As the story develops you will become absorbed in thecharacters, the times and the underlying anticipation of the inevitablebattle between good and evil.Suddenly, and without realizing it, thestory has snuck up on you and absorbed you.You can't turn the pages fastenough.You can't put the book down.If you are looking for a good timeand great reading I highly recommend "My Buffalo Soldier". ... Read more

Product Description
In this anthology from three authors of romantic fiction, love blooms in the most unusual places - and Valentine's Day inspires the most mismatched couples to follow their hearts. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

A Heartwarming Story
A titled gentleman, without an heir, usually re-marries. Sebastian, Visount Sterling, has no intention of ever re-marrying again.Until__ a certain mis-directed Valentine is delievered to his home and fills Sebastian with curoisty of the young woman who sent it.Rebecca, so full of youthful fantasies, sends a valentine to the young man of her dreams.She is mortified when she is confronted by Sebastian.Will his heated kiss change a young woman's heart?
I loved this book.It really brought laughter and extreme enjoyment.This is the beginning of Patricia Wadell's gentleman's series.Don't miss this fantastic book. ... Read more

Product Description
From the elegant halls of London to the rugged castles of distant Scotland, historical romance has never been hotter! This title comes from "New York Times" bestselling author Susan Johnson, with Terri Brisbin and Mary Wine...'When A Lady Is Willing, There Will Always Be A Way..."As You Wish" by Susan Johnson: Felicity Belvoir is a charmer indeed - and still a virgin. But not for long. The dashing earl of Albion has vowed to be her first lover...and he is known throughout London as the gold standard in female pleasure..."A Storm Of Love" by Terri Brisbin: The wild lands of Argyll hold no promise for a woman cast away - until a younger lover draws Agnes of Mull into his strong embrace. Breac's tender touch erases all sorrow...and his compelling sensuality brings her to ecstasy..."Stealing The Bride" by Mary Wine: Brawny and brave, Hayden Monroe is a laird in need of a wife and the beautiful Elspeth Leask shall be his. But he must bed her to wed her - and fully satisfy her deepest desires. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Reviewed by Romance Junkies!
Get in line historical romance lovers! UNDONE, an anthology by Susan Johnson, Terri Brisbin, and Mary Wine will make a welcome addition to any keeper shelf!

AS YOU WISH by Susan Johnson

Virgin Felicity Belvoir is well thought of and is able to make even the hardest of heart like her.Men find her irresistible but are too much aware of her to take her virginity.It's a good thing the Earl of Albion isn't as reserved - he plans to take her virginity.And if rumors are true, Felicity is looking forward to every single risqué moment.

Felicity is a lovely woman.She has style and grace.Her peers love her - she is everything the jaded Earl of Albion needs, even if he is too stubborn to see what is in front of his face.I adore when the intentions of the hero doesn't happen as he planned!

A STORM OF LOVE by Terri Brisbin

Breac is on his way home after searching for a healer to give him herbs to help his dying sister.As he rests for the night, he is awakened by two men throwing a bundle off of a horse.The bundle moves, and Breac is surprised to see a trussed up and very much naked woman inside.Realizing the men mean to kill her, Breac stops them by promising to make her his slave.

Terri Brisbin pleasantly surprised me with A STORM OF LOVE.With drama, flair, and sensuous love scenes, I was unable to do anything other than fall in love with this spirited story.Ms. Brisbin's characters were enchanting!

STEALING THE BRIDE by Mary Wine

Hayden Monroe needs a wife in the worst way.As laird of his clan, Hayden knows his responsibilities.And finding a wife is a priority. Hayden finds the woman he desires in Elspeth Leask.She is a beauty, and Hayden is looking forward to bedding and then wedding this lovely lady.

I am certain that no one other than Mary Wine can tell a Scottish romance with such enticing words.STEALING THE BRIDE has just the right combination of sensuality and sexuality needed to bring Hayden and Elspeth alive.

UNDONE is a great anthology by three extremely talented authors.There is simply no way I could pick a favorite so I am not going to even try.Just know that each story will grab you and keep you warm and toasty as you read.Or, like me, it might make you sweat and shiver with anticipation!

Natalie S.

well written heated historicals

"As You Wish" by Susan Johnson.On 1785 London, the bet between two friends leads to Felicity Belvoir meeting the Earl; he wants to be her first and she wants him to be her last.

"A Storm of Love" by Terri Brisbin.In 1083 Scotland, Agnes of Mull is thrown out of her home into the dangerous wild, but Breac takes her in so she does not die.

"Stealing the Bride" by Mary Wine.In 1554 Scotland Laird Hayden Monroe needs a wife so he decides to kidnap his first and last choice Elspeth Leask as they share a deep passion that he hopes will turn into an even deeper love.

These are three well written heated historicals starring strong males and even stronger females.

Harriet Klausner
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Book Description
Christmas is steeped in family traditions, traditions that often had their beginnings with love. Travel back in history and discover how acts of faith, love, and kindness between the young lovers in these four new novellas establish blessings that will be passed along to generations to come. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Christmas Threads...Heartwarming Christmas Romances!
CHRISTMAS THREADS - The Christmas Cake.

I just bought the InspirationalAnthology CHRISTMAS THREADS, and decided to read the last novella in theanthology from Barbour, first.I was touched by the sweet story ofnewlyweds, Elizabeth and Joel Evans, who spend their first Christmastogether in the small house they call home on the Nebraska prairie.Ourheroine, Elizabeth, tries desperately to overcome the harsh winter and manyother obstacles in order to bake a traditional holiday dessert for herhusband.Will she be able to bring a little bit of a Boston Christmas tothe Nebraska prairie?Will she find the ingredients to bake the holidaycake his family had been eating for years?Talented author, Janet Spaethshows us her wonderful sense of humor throughout this loving Christmasnovella.Along with a happy ending, she has included a wonderful recipethat I'm going to bake for my husband, even though it's not Christmas yet. Thank you, Janet for your emotional and humorous story...and for includingthe recipe!I can't wait to read the other three novellas in theanthology. ... Read more

Product Description
Celebrate the most joyous of seasons with these delightfulstories of holiday romance from five of today's best-loved Regency authors. Each tale is set on Christmas Eve, capturing the season's true spirit of charity and goodwill-and proving time and again why love is the greatest gift of all... ... Read more

Customer Reviews (12)

Oh, heavens... I couldn't even bring myself to finish it
Anthologies of this type are always hit or miss affairs. Even those with the big single title names vary in quality. This edition was, to my mind, utterly miserable. Even those authors who usually have something decent to contribute were a great disappointment.

I managed to trudge through Barbara Metzger's story, even though I couldn't stand any of the main characters. Two couples, and the only sympathetic person among them was the mistress! The mice were annoying.

I then forced myself to skim through Allison Lane's and Diane Farr's tales, but neither was worth it. Lane's situations were ridiculous and would never have occured in the time period. It started out well, but deteriorated once the house party ensued. As for Ms. Farr's story, I can't help but believe that the hero will one day rue marrying such a reckless girl. Her only redeeming quality was her peppiness, which was exhausting. I simply couldn't bring myself to even attempt the last two stories.

Avoid this one at all costs. It is dull and silly.

Another hit-and-miss anthology: one dud, two so-so, two good
I've said in previous reviews that there are two downsides to anthologies: one being that the stories are frequently too short for good character and plot development, and the other that poor authors are mixed in with the better ones. This anthology suffers from both of these problems, and as a result is really not good enough to be considered a keeper.

The first story is Barbara Metzger's Little Miracles, an unusual tale centred around a poor and run-down parish church and the few remaining church mice, who try hard to hint successive vicars in the direction of St Cecilia's riches. Evan, the current vicar, is in love with Alice, daughter of the local squire. But his stipend is a pittance and the vicarage has a hole in its roof; how could he ever ask her to marry him? It's a sweet story with amusing moments, but too short for real character development.

Allison Lane's The Marriage Stakes is typical of this author; the characters are all far too informal with each other, and minor characters are one-dimensional caricatures. She uses a plot device which appears in many other novels, where the hero holds a house party in order to choose a bride. The heroine, Sophie, who has been offered shelter after her carriage met with an accident, somehow manages to spy on the various eligible young ladies and report back to Westlake. None of this is at all convincing, and there are a number of scenes which are simply embarrassing to read.

The Gift of the Spoons, by Nancy Butler, is an unusual story and I'm not entirely convinced that it works. It helps if you believe in magic and healing and psychic powers, which I don't. Christopher Herne's son is dying, and as a last resort he is tracking down a woman he's been told about, who has healing powers - Pippa Spoon. Unfortunately, the woman he finds is the original Pippa's daughter. Still, he persuades her to come home with him to treat his son. Lots of strange goings-on and fits of temper from Christopher, and the fact that he never calls his son by his name, make this a difficult novella to like. The resolution is also too quick, and the diagnosis pretty much incredible.

On to Diane Farr's Reckless Miss Ripley; shades of Georgette Heyer's Friday's Child here, but done very well in Ms Farr's usual style. Fred Bates is hurrying home to spend Christmas with his family. He's feeling very sorry for himself, and guilty, because the family's new state of poverty is all his fault. Taking shelter from the snow at an inn, he encounters a young lady travelling alone; it transpires that she's trying to get to Bath to stop her friend Harry from marrying someone else. Claudia persuades Fred to drive her to Bath, and a delightful story ensues.

Finally, we have Edith Layton's The Christmas Thief. Max Evers has lost all his money and can't even afford to buy his niece a Christmas present. Unable to come up with any other solution, he decides that he will steal something for her. But committing a crime turns out to be not as simple as he'd envisaged. This novella was a disappointment: there are too many unconvincing events and leaps of logic and I simply can't see how certain things would have happened. The element of romance is also far too brief: the heroine gets perhaps half a dozen pages in a 60-page story.

Overall, just about so-so.

a keeper for fans of Diane Farr!!!
Four of the stories in this anthology were entertaining and helped me pass several pleasant hours on a winter evening. The fifth one, by Diane Farr, was simply outstanding! I was practically giggling in delight the whole time I was reading, especially from the moment I figured out that this was Fred Bates's story--the Fred Bates whose honor Trevor Whitlatch was defending in Ms. Farr's second novel, Fair Game. In this novella, we discover why Trevor was so eager and willing to help his friend out. Fred Bates is one of the most likeable characters I've ever come across, and the heroine in this story, Claudia, runs a close second. Their story is interesting and engaging. At the inevitable happy ending, you're giddy with joy right along with them. If you are a Diane Farr fan, you must find this book! Her story alone made this book a keeper.

For any time at all . . .
A Regency Christmas Eve features stories from two new-comers, two veterans and one in-between. To begin with, Barbara Metzger's tale of treasure hidden in a little country church and uncovered by the Merry Christmouse (and family) will have you holding your sides, laughing as you read. A rakish viscount is reformed, and made to recognize his true love, while the vicar receives the lady of his choice, as well. The humans may not realize it, but they owe it all to the industrious little Churchmouse dynasty.

The weakest story (for me, at least) was The Marriage Stakes by Allison Lane. Dreary and bleak, with a bit of preposterous thrown in, I couldn't like the characters and the setting wasn't much better. In fact, I nearly didn't finish it at all, but other readers may find this style to be enjoyable and should form their own opinion.

Nancy Butler (who won the RITA award for best Regency this year) shows yet another facet of her talent with a story that blends fantasy into romance for one enjoyable result. When Kit Herne goes into the forest looking for the wise-woman who lives there, he wants her to find a cure for his son's ailment. Instead, he finds her daughter, Pippa, who uses her own variety of magic to cure not only the son, but also his father.

Diane Farr serves up the lightest and happiest confection with The Reckless Miss Ripley and her hapless target, Fred Bates. A mere three minutes too late for the mail coach, Miss Ripley is forced to find another way to travel to Bath where she expects to meet up with her long-time (possibly imaginary) fiancé. She badgers the not-quite unwilling Mr. Bates into accompanying her, with all the travails, humorous and otherwise, that can befall such ill-prepared travelers.

And then, to close the book, Edith Layton tells a wonderful, heart-warming story with a twist. (Be sure to have the tissues handy--you'll need them.) On his way back from the wars to his home in England, Max Evers reads in the newspaper that his financial agent has been the victim of an embezzler and all is lost! When he sees his townhouse surrounded by clamoring bailiffs, that sad fact is made all too clear to him, so he turns away from all he'd been anticipating this Christmas season, taking great pains not to be found by anyone from his past life. Especially he turns from his fiancée who's been waiting patiently for him for five long years. However, all is made delightfully right again, however, on the most wondrous night of the year--Christmas Eve!

Brilliant, sparkling fun
What a brilliant collection of stories! I hadn't read most of the authors in here - there are five stories and all by different writers - and they are about 1/3 of the length of a normal regency novel - maybe shorter. But all make really satisfying reads and at any time of the year, not just Christmas.

My favourite author of this bunch was Diane Farr who seems to have a special talent for making great fun characters - her Miss Ripley was a gem and the story a real cracker - about a very perservering young girl trying to make her way to Bath in time for Christmas. The story might seem a common one but Farr adds a fresh touch to it and it flows along with immense good humour. ... Read more