1 2 3 Table of Contents

The Dark & Young or Light & Fun Sides of Paranormal with 10 Kristen Painter 10 28

Choosing The Right Book For Your Reading Tastes 22Kim Hornsby

RomanticIdeals - For Real? 3422 Barbara Gaskell Denvil 24 39 Archetyping: The Warrior The Con Man Sofia St. Angeles S.L.22 Carpenter

4 July/Aug. 2016 54 Falling for June Episode 1 Heather B. Moore 41 43 61 InD’Ear: Audiobook Reviews: A WHOLE different Creature! The Hot, The Handsome, Ann Richardson Sean Hampton! 41 Reviews: 66 Historical: 71 Contemporary: 86 Paranormal/Fantasy 103 InD’Angel Landing! Young Adult: Torie James 117 Suspense/Thriller: 122 New Adult: 130 68 Science Fiction 133 Mystery: 134 Poetry Corner: Inspirational 137 “Shackles” 41 C.b. Roberts Other: 138

5 6 Publisher/editor-in-chief: Our Staff: Technical Editor: TJ MacKay Ana Smith

Executive Asst./Review Coordinator: Transcription: Tonya Smalley Ralph Conley

Copy Editor: Graphics: Elle J. Rossi, Roberta Gordon, Tammy Grant Rachel Rossano, Jaimey Grant Julie York Technical: Video, Sound: Tim Prater Special Publications Editor: Sofia St. Angeles Reviewers:* Advertising/Marketing: Danielle Hill, Ruth Lynn Ritter, Sarah E. Bradley,Viola Robins, Amy Willis, Lynne Bryant, Belinda Wilson, Melody Prat Majanka Verstraete, Heather R. Nielsen, Stephanie Margaret Faria Lodes, M.P. Ceja, Kate Campbell, Lynn McKendrick, Gwenellen Tarbet, Clarice Silvers, Sloane Austin, Social Media: Janna Shay Chantel Hardge, Mary Nancy Smith, Jordyn Teel, Rose Mary Espinosa, Penelope Bartotto, Amelia Kitch Carol Conley *Please note, ALL InD’tale staff are required to read and Mimi Smith review books

Columnists: Material in this publication may not be Heather B. Moore reproduced in any form without written Ann M. Richardson permission. All books and material reviewed S.L. Carpenter by InD’tale have been read by the stated reviewer, and are the opinions of that reader.

7 Editor’s Note

California to attend and hang out with their favorite authors! As you can see, summer is anything but laid back - in fact it is the very busiest time of year for us! It is also challenging, exhilarating and extremely rewarding to see so many wonderful authors build their platform and so many amazing readers discover new treasures. It’s also a time to allow our staff just a bit of a breather after all the work! That is why you are “holding” one of our two giant issues at this moment. Double the fun and information means our reviewers have been doubling the work but it will allow them to enjoy a few weeks of summer with their families. Never fear, though, September will bring a brand new batch of excitement to share. In the meantime, grab that lemonade, throw Happy Summer everyone!! The sun is shining, the those steaks on the grill and enjoy! weather is warm and things are starting to pop around the InD’tale offices! Goodness, I don’t even know where to start! We have over 80 judges working on reading and rating each of the RONE finalist books, our annual print magazine is being developed, the agenda for InD’Scribe Author Reader Conference is getting its final polish and starting next month, we will be rounding up readers from all over Southern

Smiles, TJ Mackay

8 Contributors

Barbara Gaskell Denvil Kim Hornsby Heather B. Moore Born in England, Barbara now lives Kim has taught scuba in Fiji, opened Heather B. Moore is a USA Today in Australia, writing historical shows for Jay Leno and Jamie Foxx, has bestselling author of more than a adventure/mystery/romance, and taken school supplies to Nicaraguan dozen historical novels and also fantasy. Much of her inspiration villages, sung on 60 Minutes, dove thrillers, written under pen name came from many years sailing the with wild dolphins and once did CPR H.B. Moore. She writes women's Mediterranean, but now she lives in on a dead man. As an Award-Winning fiction, romance and inspirational rural peace, surrounded by parrots novelist, Kim takes a dangerous non-fiction under Heather B. and kookaburras. The ideal life for an situation, throws in a romance, adds Moore. She also runs the freelance author! You can visit Barbara at her supernatural aspects, and spends a gut- editing company, Precision Editing website: http:// wrenching year perfecting the story. Group. This can all be confusing, barbaragaskelldenvil.com/index.html She's shared space on the top five so her kids just call her Mom. bestseller list with Stephen King, Dean Koontz and J.D. Robb.

Ann M. Richardson Sofia St. Angeles S.L. Carpenter Ann’s passion is narrating well- Sofia lives on the gorgeous A lifetime Californian, Scott written books with plot twists; Olympic Peninsula where she Carpenter lives the ordinary life of even better if there’s humor keeps very busy loving her husband a husband and father, with the incorporated. She has been and 8 children. Believe it or not, addition of three dogs and a described as having a distinctly she has also written an award couple of cats. Humor has always soft and feminine voice that winning YA book, and is finishing played a large role in his life, and surprisingly has no trouble another on the very subject she he enjoys making people smile. digging into gritty characters, or writes for InD’tale, Archetyping! His stories range from the outright passionate scenes. Ann has As much as she loves writing, she absurd to the deeply poignant, achieved the distinction of loves losing herself in the pages of and his mastery of the short story “Audible Approved Narrator.” books that makes her blush and format is undeniable. If asked, She is also is an active member smile even more. She also has a he'll describe himself as just of World-Voices Organization terrible obsession with stiletto heels another guy. His many fans will and served on its Executive and regularly turns pirouettes in her tell you that his writing paints Board for three years. kitchen. quite a different picture.

9 Kristin Painter

The Dark and Young or Light and Fun Sides of

of Paranormal

If you have ever wished for a sexy, pretty, fun friend who loves to shop and has your back no matter what, Kristen Painter is a dream come true! She’s upfront and frank but funny and engagingly warm and friendly. She is also one of Indie publishing’s most popular authors right now! Whether it’s quirky paranormal romance or dark and dangerous YA fantasy, Kristen keeps it sweet, sexy and always entertaining!

10 InD: I read somewhere that you are a girly girl and I thought, “Yes!” I am too, so it was fun to see you own up! KP: (laughing) I basically do my work in an old t-shirt and yoga pants. Make-up really only happens if I have to go somewhere, but I don’t leave the house that often. Which is probably why I shop online so much! Shoes and handbags—I don't want to say they are my downfall because I don't feel like they are leading me in a bad direction.... (both laughing) InD: Just for fun. What places do you shop online? KP: Saks.com, TJMaxx.com, Amazon, if they sell stuff, I’m there.. especially shoes or handbags! InD: Any particular brands you like the best? KP: I love Alexander McQueen. I love Valentino and Louis Vuitton and Coach. Basically I have champagne tastes which is why I do a lot of window shopping. (laughs) I did just get a pair of Tevas lip lops. That’s like the Florida state shoe and I live in them! But, I do have a bad thing for all kinds of shoes and handbags! (lifts a can of Dr. Pepper to her mouth and grins.) InD: Oh my gosh, Kristen, you are a Dr. Pepper girl, too! Elixir of the gods. KP: (laughing) Yep. Have you read my “Jayne Frost” mystery? There is only the irst in the series out right now but Dr. Pepper is her water. That is all she drinks! InD: I haven't read any of “Jayne Frost” but my They are what I call “series adjacent”—you will see excuse is a good one. Before I interview anyone, I some of the same characters. Jayne is a winter elf, the like to get a good, broad view of what they write daughter of Jack Frost and Santa Claus's niece. She so I usually read one or two of all the different comes to Nocturne Falls because elves from her series and varieties of books they have published. father's toy shop are going missing and so she is going With you, I started with "Blood Rights". Then I to igure that out. It’s a mystery because I wanted read "Miss Bramble and the Leviathan" and something different to go to once in a while. I found it enjoyed that little novella. I thought, “That was kind of a challenge because I have never written a easy. Now, I’ll try a book from the “Nocturne Falls” cozy mystery before. Oh my word, that book was so series.” The rest is history. I ended up reading much freaking fun to write! every single book in that series in one week! I InD: Was it fun because it was something very loved them! They were like paranormal candy. I different or was it something about writing a didn't get to any of your other books because I fell mystery that stood out against all of the others? in love with “Nocturne Falls”! KP: It was the writing in irst person. I have never KP: Well, “Jayne Frost” is also set in “Nocturne Falls” written irst person before and it really poured out of but those books are more like cozy mysteries. They me. I thought, “I don't know, this could be weird.” are in irst person instead of third, so if you like Nope! It was incredibly easy for me to write. It can be “Nocturne Falls” I think you will like “Jayne Frost”. a little stream of consciousness kind of thing. Very different than writing in third person! InD: There are pros and cons to both. First person “I do like to bring in some characters can be very challenging and frustrating for a I think are kind of underused in reader because we are not getting anybody else's point of view, so unless an author is very gifted at paranormals, like the valkyrie and being able to show what the other person is feeling just from their reactions, we have no idea. gargoyles. Coming up, I have a But, at the same time it is a whole different dragon shifter, a reaper, a mermaid, experience, and it is fun in that way also. KP: Some people have very strong feelings about it and some more interesting characters.” and won't even read irst person. They just don't like

11 it. I had a woman on my review team who didn't want tension, we just didn't get that the book because it was irst person. She ended up graphic description of the sex. reading it anyway and loving it. It was a fun book to It is all just so refreshingly write, and anybody who likes “Nocturne Falls” gets a different, yet thoroughly chance to see the town from somebody else’s eyes and enjoyable to read. in a very different way. It was sort of like visiting a KP: Yeah, most people I have place you have been to many times, but seeing it met know how sex works, but through fresh eyes. there is deinitely an audience InD: Are you developing “Jayne Frost” into a out there who love paranormal, series? they want romance, but they KP: Yes. aren’t always interested in all the InD: It is always going to be about Jayne Frost or is nitty-gritty stuff that goes on it going to be different mysteries that continue behind closed doors. from there? InD: It’s the story itself and the KP: She will always be the main character. I set up a romance. It was just so little...I hate to call it a love triangle because it different than any other isn’t...but there are two heroes in the book and a lot of paranormal I have read. the happenings are with her trying to decide. One is a Thank you, Kristen! new guy and one she has history with, and she is being KP: You are welcome! I appreciate your kind words. pulled in two different directions but there will always The two things that I hear the most are; they wish it be some sort of mystery she has to solve. That is sort was real...they want to live in Nocturne Falls and that of the center piece of the book and then you got this the books are like potato chips—one is not enough. sub-plot romance thing happening. InD: That is true. First hand-testimonial to that InD: All of the “Nocturne Falls” books are such a statement! refreshing change. Paranormals have been so big KP: I am really glad. You know I have never really for so long, but it seems industry wide that when written sex. In my urban fantasy, it wasn't something reading a paranormal, there are basic themes: my publisher was interested in. In most of those Angsty, there is going to be sex, etc. books, I didn't really have time for it, there was other KP: And a lot of them are very dark. stuff going on, sometimes in a story it just doesn't InD: Yes. Most of them are different levels of dark. make sense. Usually people have to know each other KP: Yeah, dark and darker! irst. In real life, it normally wouldn't happen in the InD: Exactly! When I started reading these, they irst few days! were like a palate pleaser. They were light, InD: Thank you! Many times as I am reading, I’ll refreshing, and so much fun yet they don’t even think, “That sex scene doesn't it the story!” It’s have explicit sex in them! There’s still that sexual like authors feel they are required to add sex whether it goes with the developing story or not. So many stories lose their believability because the author doesn’t give their characters time to get to know each other before plopping them into sex then calling it love. KP: It doesn't happen that fast in real life. InD: No it doesn't. I love that your characters in “Nocturne Falls” discuss that. They’ll say, “I don't know you that well.” or “Let me get time to know you irst.” How refreshing is that? That is realistic and believable. KP: And they just happen to be vampires and werewolves. InD: Fae, witches… KP: Gargoyles, a little bit of everything! InD: In that way you make them human and believable even though they are witches, vampires, and werewolves. What made you come up with this idea?

12 who the heroine or hero is. Then they have to marinate in my head for a while until I igure out who their love interest will be. Sometimes they come to me right away and sometimes I don't know for a long time. It can take me a while because that person has to match the characteristics of the other person in a way that it makes sense. There has to be that give and take, two halves of the same coin, for the love to really work in a way that makes sense but it is also interesting to read. InD: So when you decide on the characters, they are not KP: Okay, true story: My couldn't necessarily the characters that husband's family always travels somebody do that with have already been in the series. for Thanksgiving so a lot of times Halloween?” Make up this town Take, for instance, the they will pick a destination and where every day they celebrate character of Roxy St. James, she that is where we end up. They Halloween and the whole idea of hasn’t really been featured in rent a house or cabin and that is the tourist industry of the town previous books other than a where we will have Thanksgiving would provide the cover for all of mere mention. and, since I am telling the truth these supernatural characters to KP: Okay, a true story about Roxy. here, I am usually grumpy about live there. So, the idea really did She kind of came about as a nod this. It is not my favorite thing to develop out of a real place. It’s to some of my writer friends. do. I want to sit on the couch and also why Nocturne Falls is set in InD: I was going to ask that! have left-overs and watch Georgia. Because obviously we have football, but that is just not what I InD: As a paranormal writer, some of the same friends. The get to do. The other factor is that I you can see the connection, but irst time I saw her character I am usually in the middle of a I would be going. "Wow! How thought, “Okay, has to be a little book, and so I’ll say, “Okay, just did you get from a German nod.” igure out where we are going and town to a Halloween shifter KP: Absolutely it is. It is a nod to tell me what I need to pack.” So, town?" Roxanne St. Claire and another of about four years ago we went to a KP: That’s just how my mind place called Helen, Georgia. Have works! you ever heard of Helen, Georgia? InD: You put very diverse InD: No. couples together that most KP: A lot of people refer to it as people don't even write about “Hell in Georgia”. Helen is a town most of the time, like valkyrie, in the more mountainous section gargoyles...then you pair them of Georgia. Well, the town wasn’t with totally different species, doing so well so they decided, as a how do you come up with that? town, to reinvent themselves as a KP: Well, I do like to bring in German village. All the storefronts some characters I think are kind and houses are now German- of underused in paranormals, like inspired architecture—they even the valkyrie and gargoyles. have beer gardens. I mean, you Coming up, I have a dragon drive through there and think, shifter, a reaper, a mermaid, and “Oh, this is clearly where a bunch some more interesting characters. of German settlers came!” No, it is Still, you’ll always have your all manufactured for tourists. staples like vampires, witches, So, we are in this town and the werewolves. Usually when l get thought just came to me, “Why an idea for a book, I already know

13 14 my writer friends, Elle Saint James. It really just InD: Was it an online dating service? started out as this funny little thing I was throwing in KP: Yes. It was ChristianMatchmaker.com. I happened there, but then she took on a life of her own. Duncan, to be in the chatroom at the time, looking for people in Tessa's kitten in "The Vampire's Fake Fiancée", is my area, and he happened to be in there. My screen named after another writer friend of mine, Leigh name was “beachgirl” and he was in Fort Walton, so Duncan. he asked me where I was from and I told him I was InD: Roxanne has got to know that was a nod, but from Ocean City, Maryland. He said, “Those aren't real Duncan, did you mention, “I just named a cat after beaches!” and I thought, “This guy's a jerk.” The next you.” day he sent me an email to apologize because he knew KP: Yes. These are women who routinely sit at my I took his comment very differently than he meant it. dining room table and write with me. I was going At that point, we just started talking and one thing led along and said, “I need a name for this cat.” then I to another. The rest is history. looked up, “Leigh, I think I am going to call my cat InD: Oh come on, that was way too fast! When did Duncan!” you inally meet in person? InD: Now, tell me about your cat ixation... KP: Back in those days there was this thing I think was KP: We currently have six cats and we may have called Net Meeting. It was kind of a precursor to video another one, or more, soon. I have been a cat person chats, like a video conferencing type of thing. We used all of my life. I was raised with a bunch of cats. I had to do that so we could see each other. He came up for three when I met my husband and he irmly told me, “I New Year's Eve to meet me in person for the irst time am a dog guy.” and I said, “Well…sorry!” But, after he and we just hit it off. We both have been married met my cats, he was totally converted. He is the before, so I think we went into it very much with our biggest cat guy, now! He is retired Air Force, a eyes open and knowing what we wanted. Older, wiser, Lieutenant Colonel. He had many, many people he was that kind of thing. He is just a really good guy. I fell for in charge of, and handled millions of dollars, so when him right away. A lot of people will say he is kind of a he talks baby talk to the cats it is hilarious. He is one of male version of me. We crack each other up and have the best guys ever! a good time. We work well together. InD: And you have six cats now... InD: And thirteen or fourteen years later....six cats! KP: Yes, we have Daisy, Lilly, Scooter, Jack, Spencer, In your bio it says you were a college English and Finnegan. teacher. Why are you not still? InD: Oh my goodness! Let's dish on your husband… KP: I basically taught while I was working on my he is retired Air Force, did you travel or have to Masters. I loved teaching but when Rick and I got move a lot with him? KP: No, because I actually met him at the end of his career. He was stationed in Fort Walton Beach, Florida. I was living in Maryland and we met online. Then he ended up moving to Langley Air Force Base in Virginia so we were about three hours apart. That was his last station then he retired and we moved back to Florida because his family is here in Florida. InD: How long have you been together? KP: This will either be thirteen or fourteen years...I can't remember. I am not very good with numbers, I will tell you that right now. InD: You didn't have to go through that whole moving every couple of years thing. You got the best of it without the worst of it! KP: I kind of did. The last year he was in, he did a lot of traveling and I was like, “I’ve seen where you are going and you are not going without me!" We did a trip where we were in Germany, Las Vegas, Hawaii, and Australia all within a period of like three months and some of them were back to back. InD: It would be exhausting. So you met him online, how did that all work? KP: At irst, I did not like him.

15 It’s a very different book in tone than a lot of my other stuff. InD: It is much darker. KP: Yes. It was 2009, or there about. I had been on the phone with New York editors getting revision notes on various books. I would do the revisions and they still ended up passing on the book for whatever reason. I had gotten really close so many times and nothing ever came of it. I was in a really dark place. Writing is tough. You are basically this lone voice in your head and you get to a point where you think, "Am I wasting my time? What’s the purpose of the stuff I’m putting on pages here?" I felt like quitting. I was angry married, we weren’t able to live together our irst because I had a publisher tell me they were going to year. I was working and he was in the Air Force three make an offer on a book and they came back with, “It hours away, so we would see each other on weekends. is not a yes and it’s not a no.” It took about a year to get done with everything. Then, So, at RWA, everybody there is all happy about writing I inally moved to Virginia with him. He said to me, and trying to get published and I’m like this dark “You don't need to get another job right away if there cloud of angst and anger! My roommate said, "Are you is something else you want to do.” I said, “I have been okay?" I go, "No. I’m really not. I think I’m going to writing all of my life and I would like to try and get write something just to entertain myself." I always published” (Truthfully, I don't think I actually affectionately refer to it as my “screw you” book understood what that even meant.) He was like, “Go because I was channeling my anger. That book became ahead!” so I quickly joined the local RWA. I had this "Blood Rights". It came out of that very dark place, and idea for a book and I started writing. Two or three of course that’s the book that sold! years later, I got an agent and I think it took almost six InD: It is understandable though, because at that years after that to inally sell. time it was all of the dark paranormal that was InD: So when you moved and you decided writing really selling and that was right before Indie really was something you would really like to do, did the went crazy, so you were stuck with it. irst one you wrote sell? KP: Oh yeah. I was happy to get "Blood Rights" sold. I KP: It didn't sell. It was a fantasy romance. That was surprised because it was so different than wasn't an easy genre. It wasn't hard core fantasy, it anything I had ever written. In fact, I wasn't even wasn't paranormal romance and it didn’t have on- going to show it to my agent. Elle Saint James was my screen sex. It was in no man's land. Nobody really RWA roommate, and she asked what I was working on knew what to do with it. because I wasn't going to workshops. I was just sitting InD: All the things that were probably big at the at my computer typing away. I said, “It’s nothing, just a time. vampire book. I’m entertaining myself. I’m getting all KP: Yeah. All the digital publishers wanted the super of my anger out.” sexy stuff, so it didn't it in. I had probably written ive She read some of it and said, “This is really good. You or six books before I sold any. The one that inally sold should show this to your agent.” I said, “Oh no, oh no, I to a New York publishing house was, "Blood Rights". don't want to be that ‘vampire author’. That isn’t what I’m going to do.” She ended up talking me into sending the irst 50 pages in. My agent was like, “I don't know what this is. I’ve never seen this kind of stuff from you before but keep writing it!” The funny thing is when it sold, I had to call my dad. I said, “I have good news and I have bad news. The good news is that I sold a book and there’s going to be at least three books in the deal.” He was very excited about that because he always likes to know my English degree is going to pay off. (laughs) So then he says, “So, what is the bad news?” I said, “Well, there is this character I named after you and he is kind of a drug lord and a crime boss.” There is this silence on the line and I am thinking I am so grounded right now! He goes, “Well,

16 does he live to the end of the book?” and I said, “He does now!” That character is Dominic. InD: I was thinking that character has to be Dominic! KP: Yeah, my parents have always been very invested in my work. I think my dad has read everything, including my “Nocturne Falls” books, which my mom claims are too romancey for him, because he likes to walk through the house going, “Oh, my loins, my loins!” InD: I talk to a lot of authors and it is very rare when the men read the books. How amazing that your dad is so awesome that even the ones he really doesn't care for he still reads. That is so cool! Okay, we have got to back it up because you have InD: Yet, you said that you are not that much of a written all of your life and you taught college people person. That is interesting. English. How is the timeline working here? KP: I am an extroverted introvert. I am very good KP: Let me see...I have done so many jobs in my life. when I need to be, but for the most part, I just want to I’m kind of a Jack of all Trades. be in my house. I’m very much an outspoken person. InD: So start at the beginning. Little girl Kristen My friends don't ask my opinion unless they want the loves to write... truth because that is absolutely my default. I suck at KP: First, I wanted to be a chef, or so I thought. Then, I lying. If you want to know if you look fat in pants ask went to school for Advertising and Design in New me because I will tell you. I am aware that I can be York City and I really enjoyed that, but I quickly very blunt so I do try to rein that in sometimes. I don't igured out it wasn't quite for me and I didn't want to have much of a ilter so when I go to big events I know lose college time trying to igure out what my major I must be “on” for that period of time. I will tell you was going to be, so I went into English because that what, by the time it’s over, it’s like I have delated! was something I have always been really good at. I InD: I do that, too. I love it when I am there, I love love to read, I love to write. It was in that second being around the people, I love visiting with college career where I ended up teaching as I worked everybody but there are times during the day I on my masters. have to go into the room and just sit in the quiet. It InD: Did you write stories all the time you were is sort of like detox. Then work it up and go out growing up, just for fun? and have a good time again. KP: Yes. KP: It takes a level of energy that is not maintainable. InD: You did say you wanted to be a chef, and I’ve At a certain point, that energy just stops existing and read that you were a maître d' at Wolfgang Puck. you have to pull back. I signed at Comic-Con in New Was that in your chef cycle? York and talk about having to have the energy level! KP: When I married my irst husband, we ended up Everybody who comes to see you, wherever the moving to Florida. I think it was on a lark that I signing is, wants the full you for that ive or ten applied at Wolfgang Puck. I was actually on the minutes they are standing in front of you, and they opening team of the one that is in downtown Disney deserve that. I feel that readers are everything, so I and I got the job because, frankly, no one knew as much about food as I did! There were a ton of us applying and the head chef, Robin Stotter, came out with an expediting table covered with all kinds of ingredients. He went down the line and picked something up and said, “Does anybody know what this is?” and I would go “Daikon radish.” He’d hold something else up. “How about this?” I said, “Udon noodle.” He said, “How do you know all of this?” I said, “I watch a lot of Food Network.” Part of it was that I read a lot, too, and loved to cook. They gave me the job, and that was how I became the maı̂tre d' at Wolfgang Puck!

1717 18 give as much as I can, but at the actually mapped out and ready to KP: Having spent my time with a same time, there is a limited go and I could start them traditional New York publisher, supply of that energy. tomorrow, but I am having so and also with a small press, I InD: But with natural much fun with the “Nocturne think most New York publishers extroverts that isn't the case. Falls” that I don't see myself either don't really understand the They get their energy from all walking away at any point in the impact Indie publishing is having. the people. The majority of future. I have a lot of stories left to People are putting out Indie writers are natural introverts tell and my readers still seemed books that are just as good as so they would relate to us, but to want to read them. I’m going to traditional. The covers are just as there’s still that 40% that are keep writing them until people good, the editing is just as good, extroverts and absolutely love get tired of them. the stories are just as good and it and get their energy from InD: When you get your ideas, they are not charging $14.99 for being with everyone. do you write them down or do them! For the irst time in my life, KP: Yeah, and then you have they lop around in your head since I started Indie publishing, I those who are so introverted that until you get them out? am actually making a living wage. the conference is one long nerve- KP: Yeah, I probably should be a That never happened with New racking experience. They don't little more organized, but I’m not. York publishing, because if a book want to talk to anybody, they They just kind of rattle around in sold for $8.99, I was only making don't want to go to a party, or the empty space up there. A lot of 57 cents, and even that went to meet anyone. That is not me. I am there to meet and talk and enjoy. InD: Yep, I totally understand. Tell me, if you woke up tomorrow and you could not write, every idea was gone what would you do? KP: Could I be a professional shopper? I’m very good at that! InD: There you go! KP: That is a very good question. I don't know...I have done a lot in my life but I don't know if I am as good at anything else as I am at writing. I guess I would have to times, if a new character comes to pay back my advance. make my husband go back to me, I will at least try to mention The problem with big publishers work so I could shop. them in some way in one of the is that they have never been in the InD: Do you still have a million books so they can become more business of connecting readers to stories in your head? Or do you of an actual character instead of a books. They have been connecting wake up in the morning and igment of my imagination. I book sellers with books, there has say, “Okay, now I have to think deinitely believe in seeding always been a middle man, and I of something?” characters in. I feel like people think because of that they have KP: I don't think I will live long want to know who these people lost touch. They also don't move enough to tell every story in my are. Then they come off as more with the speed that Indie head! Every time I think I’m of a friend. You are already publishers do. If Amish vampires getting low on ideas, new things invested in them and you care were to become the next best come to me. I constantly think in about them. I think then the book thing tomorrow, it would take little pieces. They’re not a whole matters more. them about a year to get an Amish idea yet, but eventually the pieces InD: What do you think about vampire book out. Indies could will it together and I’m like, “Oh, the publishing world right have it done in a month. That’s there it is! That’s what I should now? the society we live in right now. write!” Besides the “Nocturne KP: I think it is absolutely banana People want books right away. Falls” and the “Jayne Frost” pants. They don't want to wait two years mysteries I have two ideas for InD: Banana pants?! Okay tell for the next installment. I am not urban fantasy series I would us what is banana pants? a fast writer by any means, but someday like to write. They are

19 even so, when a book is done, I InD: Exactly. And that goes can usually get it out on the back to what you were saying, market within a month, as they haven't connected to the opposed to thirteen months reader. They are so used to with New York. If they don't connecting with a book store. change some things, I don't KP: Yeah. A lot of Indie stuff is know how they are going to not tracked the same way that counter balance that. New York is. I sometimes And honestly, a lot of us don't wonder if New York has a clear want to work for the small idea of how much Indie has amount of money we were going on right now and how it is making. You can't live on it. You selling. I’m amazed every day can't support a family on it. It’s when I talk to my other Indie not the kind of money you can author friends. It’s so very count on either because you’re different being Indie published only paid every six months and - and in a very good way! you don't know what you are InD: I have to wonder if getting. It is always a surprise traditional has any when the royalties come. Did I comprehension how much earn out my advance? Am I money Indies are making. It getting any money? There is is one of those things that very little transparency. I loved my New York Indie authors aren't going to go around bragging publisher when I was there. I learned a lot and they about, but I know a lot of Indie authors who are helped me build an audience but they’d have to make making large sums. Is traditional totally blind to some major changes to get me back now! all of this? InD: I am really surprised they are not catching on KP: Most traditional authors are considered “mid-list”. faster. It has been three or four years now yet I go You don't get any promo, you don't get any real to Amazon for traditional authors I have loved and placements anywhere. Mid-list authors are generally the publishers are still charging fourteen, ifteen like the pack mules of the publishing industry. And I dollars for an eBook! I don't want to pay that any say that as having been one. We made enough money more. I don't have to pay that. for the publishers so they could give Snooki a million KP: The problem is that eBooks essentially became dollars to write a book but we weren't getting any of the new mass market books. Mass market paperbacks it. They have their cream of the crop and the people at $7.99 or $8.99 could not compete with the eBooks that are making the big money. They have the newbies for $3.99. They became a huge expense to keep doing who are just set on being New York published, but because it wasn't like print on demand, they had to now I think a lot of the mid-list are gone. So, I have to run 10,000 books or some set amount to make the imagine that publishers are suffering for authors. numbers work. It didn't make sense for them to keep InD: I agree with you because most of the people I doing that so they had to move to trade paperbacks see were very good mid-listers, but never really which are essentially printed on demand as needed. made a lot of money. Some have switched over and Well, trade paperbacks are $12.99, $14.99, and that many, like you, are doing fabulously on their own. only widens the gap and makes it worse. Who is going KP: Traditional could not afford me right now. to buy a $15 book when they can get three or four Couldn’t even come close. I don't know what they eBooks for that amount of money? could offer me that would make me go back. Maybe InD: Then, when they switched over to eBooks, some kind of print only distribution deal, but that’s they chose to charge that same amount for the about it at this point. I’m too happy to want to change eBooks. Talk about alienating every reader they anything. might have! There is not a person in this world InD: What would your advice be to all those just that doesn't stop and say, “Oh, give me a break. starting out who really want to make it in this You are not spending any money on printing, what industry? Then the reverse. What are the things are you thinking?” you would tell them to beware of? KP: Nobody wants to feel like they’ve been suckered. KP: Learn your craft well. Don't get too caught up in If you get the idea that you’re being taken advantage the rules, but you need to know some of them to know of, it creates ill will between the reader and the when it is okay to break certain rules. And then, write! publisher, but the author is the one who suffers. Just write that book. The hardest thing you ever are

20 going to do is get to “The End”. If you can inish that single piece of advice you’re given. This is the hardest irst book, then you have done it and then you can do job I have ever had. it again. Just write, write, and write. InD: Really? InD: Write inish. Write inish. KP: Yeah, it’s the best job but it’s the hardest one, too. KP: Yes! The things to be aware of…I think if you get It’s not brain surgery but, holy cats, there are days into a critique group, you have to be strong enough to where you’re just like, “Can I sit down and take a nap know when to take advice and when not to take or a time out?” After a big writing day, I tell my advice. It’s a hard thing to learn, but it’s that “too husband I feel like someone has taken the brain out of many cooks in the kitchen” kind of thing. Other people my head and wrung it out. It’s not physical work but it will dilute your story. If it doesn't ring true to you, is draining. It’s tough but it’s fabulous! don't do it. Trust in your writer's gut, your instinct. I InD: I am guessing the fabulous comes when it is have been part of writer's groups where they each inished and the readers are connecting with it. give you a different opinion on how your story should KP: Yes, deinitely. be told, and the truth is you are the only one who InD: Does that make it worth it? knows how to tell it. You must come to a place where KP: Absolutely. The thing that makes it worth it for you can learn that. I think that is such a big thing. me is when readers send me a quick little note telling InD: So what good are critique groups? me how much they liked the book or that it made KP: If everybody is on the exact same level - in any them laugh or it took them out of their life for a day. kind of a self-help group - that you are, it is what my I’m not trying to right the wrongs of the world—I’m husband would call a “self-licking ice cream cone”. It is trying to entertain people. I am very upfront about not really going to accomplish anything. You need to that. These are not books that are going to cure ind a critique group where the people are a little anything. If I stopped being published or if people better than you are, so you can grow. You need stopped reading, would I still write? I don't know if I someone who is strong in point of view and another could because the sole purpose of what I want to do is person who’s really good with characterization and entertain people, so if nobody is reading the books another one who is great with plotting. You want to then what would the point be? ind a group where at least one of them is better at InD: Well, you have succeeded with the “Nocturne something than you are, where everybody brings Falls” series. I had the most wonderful time some skill to the table. I think those are the best kind getting away and just enjoying myself. of critique groups. KP: That’s my goal. I feel like if I am entertained by InD: But an author has to develop some kind of what I am writing, then other people will be, too. sense of who they are as a writer. How do you do Speaking of being entertained, I have recently that as a new writer? partnered with Dabel Brothers publishing – they’re a KP: You write a lot. It takes a while to get to that place. comic book studio - and I am putting out “Nocturne You really have to believe in your story. Look, it’s Falls” coloring book! tough. I think it’s the hardest thing, hands down, but InD: Oh my goodness! How fun is that! when you get to that place and you really know your KP: Yeah. The artwork is just phenomenal and story then you can say, “Well, I don't really think his intricate and really beautiful. I am just so excited back story should be this. I feel like it’s something about it! I feel like it’s an extension of the world where else.” You must really believe in the story you are people get to have their input with the coloring. telling. A book can become muddled if you take every InD: What gave you that idea? KP: I have always been a fan of graphic novels, and I grew up reading comic books. I love this stuff. One thing my dad taught me was scared money never wins. If you want to have some kind of reward you have to venture something and I thought, “Well, it’s a big risk to put this money out and do this kind of book, but I think it’s something that falls in line with my books because they are fun and entertaining. And I love that I can give my readers another way to visit Nocturne Falls. Who knows what will become of this, but I think it is going to be a lot of fun. InD: That is absolutely awesome! We will look forward to seeing how it goes!

21 22 23 I didn’t think I’d see another superhero scene as scrumdiddlyicious as Superman emerging from the lames on the Archetyping: oil derrick, but holy heck, the new Captain America helicopter scene Te Warrior is…lash-lutteringly spectacular! Captain America is the epitome of Yes, you read that right. In the wrote in defense of the the Warrior archetype, which newest version of the comic, it’s controversial Marvel decision and makes the latest news concerning revealed that Captain America claimed that the writer of any his character all the more has always been a secret story, and the creator of any disturbing. operative for Hydra. character, has the right to change *CONTROVERSIAL CONTENT What. The. Flip. any part of his/her creation. ALERT* The doo-doo hit the fan with that Funny that his fans didn’t take it So have you heard about this? little announcement. There were well, either. The writers of Captain America death threats and hate mail Why is that? have stunned the world with a delivered in epic proportions. A IMHO, it’s because they broke the new announcement. former Marine even threatened to rules. “Sure, he wears red, white, and hunt down one of the writers for Okay, you Rogues out there, I blue on the outside, but on the ruining a character he’d idolized hear you. Rules are made to be inside? It turns out Steve Rogers, and patterned his military service broken. Well, maybe so, but it’s a.k.a. Captain America, supports after. also true that creators who decide the evil, former Nazi organization, Tandem to this article was an to take this track don’t get to Hydra.” – Time Magazine in a article from a writer who’d decide how people react to their Q&A with Marvel Comics. similarly lipped a backdoor decision to break the rules. doozy on his loyal readership. He So why rant about this?

24 By: Sofia The Warrior St. Angeles Patriotic Here is one of my biggest gripes with the Captain America thing. Warriors are devoted to their countries. They don’t change loyalties. Take, for example, a Marine. Ever imagine one of them switching sides? *snort* I didn’t think so... Here’s another argument. Warriors make decisions with their souls—not their guts or their brains. They feel what’s right or wrong. Think of Captain America in the irst “Avengers”. Reluctant to think badly of his superiors, he can’t fathom why anyone would choose a path that isn’t right and true. But he

never abandons the cause—just the leaders who’ve Trustworthy strayed. His word is his bond. With a personal code at a much Valiant higher level than the average, the Warrior sticks to his This man has no problem stepping up to the plate. promises and ideals. Don’t be surprised when he When his heart is in it, there isn’t even a question. He’s expects the same from you, too. ready and willing at a moment’s notice. Charging into Stubborn a fray, protecting a woman, sacriicing all? He’s down. Gray area? No such thing for the Warrior. Issues are Chivalrous black or white, and talking him out of his convictions Damsel in distress? Then the Warrior is your man. is next to impossible. With politics, he’s either Mistreatment, unfairness, oppression? He’s on it. emotionally invested or avoids it like the plague. If a Interestingly, the damsel may be one of his few Genius detects his passion, he’ll use it to push the weaknesses. He’ll try to stick with her even when he Warrior’s buttons as a form of entertainment. knows only she can save herself.

Intolerant This goes right along with that gray area thing. If he isn’t for it, he’s against it. And he’s not afraid to be vocal about that, either. Self-righteous He knows his standards are high and he’s proud of the self- discipline it takes to remain at that level. He sees that others struggle and can’t comprehend why they aren’t strong enough to overcome their vices.

Famous Warriors? Lancelot du Lac C’est moi! Do you remember the song from Camelot? Lancelot didn’t mind the ridicule from the rest of the kingdom. He knew he was the best and even felt that denying it was wrong. Atticus Finch The epitome of standing for what’s just and true, Atticus would not back down. The easy road and/or conceding aren’t even a

25 consideration. He remains faithful to what his Warrior: Doing things right. It’s plain and simple, conscience dictates, no matter the trials incurred. either you’re doing the right thing or you aren’t. I don’t understand why it’s so hard for people to just do The Abolitionists the right thing. And I have no respect for people who If you haven’t heard of this yet, it’s worth Googling. willfully disregard it. These are real people, not characters. Special Agent Tim Ballard resigned from Homeland Security to Q: How do you feel about having begin saving the children lost to child sex slavery. It’s stuff? an uncomfortable topic, but he’s a real life hero who Gentleman: LOL. I have a lot of stuff. But, in my couldn’t look the other way. Total Warrior. defense, it all means something to me. My grandpa’s watch, my irst mitt, the ticket stub from my movie Comparisons date with Mary Sinclair. Q: What are you afraid of? Warrior: I’m an organizational freak. I have to have Rogue: The only thing I’m afraid of is losing my loved my space clean, my day needs to be meticulously ones, but I’d never show it. It’s the only thing anyone organized (a month in advance), and I have to have could ever hold over my head. The rest of it just my shoes lined up and clothes laid out before I can go doesn’t matter. to sleep. Warrior: Spiders. I put up a great front, but if It’s easy to mistake the Warrior for an Alpha, but now someone licks a spider on me, I’ll scream like a little that you know some of his iner points, you’ll be girl. ahead of the game. Every reader is looking for that rare gem. Now you know how to give it to them. Best Q: What drives you? of luck and I’d love to hear what you come up with! Alpha: I love succeeding, accomplishing goals, building an eficient team, attaining new heights. I just know in my gut where I want to go and how to get there.

26 27 We’ve all done it. Paid hard-earned money for a novel that just wasn’t our answer to the weekend’s open schedule. It’s frustrating when you get Choosing twenty pages in and realize that you just can’t continue with the story, the characters, the boredom. Facing the fact that you just took a dollar, or The Right sometimes ten, and lushed it down the entertainment budget toilet is a hard thing to accept.

Book For Your Buying a book on the New York Times Bestseller List usually involves an investment of over $8. The title of NY Times Bestseller comes at a price. That’s a given. But, having been raised penny- Reading wise, I rarely pay above $4 for a book unless I’m pretty darn sure I’ll love it. I like to support my fellow Indie authors, so more often than not I choose an unknown book. Before I hit “Buy With One Click”, I go through a check list and Tastes although it’s not foolproof, it helps enormously By: —like wearing control-top panty hose with a jersey dress. In this day of having so many Kim Hornsby 28 eBooks available at low prices, making a bad choice is reads—“She’s a lonely librarian looking for love. more than possible. No author wants you to choose He’s a muscular ireighter…” It’s a Romance. If the her book, dislike it, and write a bad review. description looks like this—“Life has never been Here is my Check List: so dangerous and she’s going to end up dead…” it’s a Suspense. Get the picture? If you think Romances 1. Price – If it’s over $5, the novel needs to satisfy are stupid, do not choose one. If you need some most of the following criteria below. If it’s under HEA love in your life for the weekend, choose a $2, I will try it if the book satisies some in this list. Romance. The grey area here is because there are Nine books out of ten I choose are not on the exceptions to any rule. For example, I write Bestseller Lists. I read fast and don’t want to Supernatural Suspense with Romance. My novels spend $80 a month. There are fantastic books out cover several genres but I often get classed as there for under $5! Paranormal Romance. Readers who love shape 2. Cover—Yes, you can judge a book by its cover and shifter and vampire romance might not dig my should. If the cover looks like the author’s dog novels. I try to clearly state what the reader can made it, has a wonky font, has a typo, isn’t expect in my blurb, regardless of the category I’ve centered, the photo isn’t clear, it’s a personal been put into by Amazon. photo, can’t read the title in a thumbnail print, 4. Pertinent Information—If a book is 40 pages, doesn’t look appropriate for the genre, or just don’t get mad because you ind it too short for looks off, you might be purchasing a book that your tastes. Check out the page length. A full novel pays as little attention to the inside as the outside. is 250-400 pages. If the novel is the irst of a Affordable cover artists are as common as strange series, the speciic story-line to that book should diet plans these days and there’s no reason for an have closure but don’t blame the author for author to make their own cover unless they are a leaving some threads hanging at the end. A series cover artist themselves. Judge a book by its cover. writer will do this to get you to continue with the 3. Blurb—If the blurb or cover’s tag line is succinct, other books. If the overall arc is left for future well thought out, typo-free, and grabs you right books, an author should not be penalized by poor where the bookworm lives in your brain, go for it. reviews from unsatisied readers who wanted Consider genre, however. If the book description absolutely everything tied up in Book 1.

29 5. Editorial (Literary) Reviews—This is 4 – 5 rating on Amazon, I read three or four where it gets tricky. There are a lot of great bad reviews along with the top good books out there by authors who can’t pay for reviews. If I can live with the common theme editorial reviews. These suckers often cost in the bad reviews (too short, too long, a few big money, I’m talking Kirkus and typos, clifhanger ending, swearing) I buy Publisher’s Weekly, but there are wonderful the book. Helpful hint: Never click on “Yes”, publications who do not charge for editorial for “Was this review Helpful?” especially if it reviews, thereby giving Indies a ighting was a mean/snarky tirade of a review. Those chance of having a fair editorial review. suckers will ruin a writer’s career and send InD’tale Magazine does a stand-up job of an author into the fetal position for days. It’s this, without asking the author to cough up best not to contribute to that reviewer’s money. Having a Crowned Heart from meanness. Besides, how do you know if a InD’tale (4.5 – 5 stars) is a good indication of review is helpful unless you read the book to a superior read. A quote from them, or a see if what they said was true? I once had a Crowned Heart, is a vote for the book. one-star review on a book with a steamy 6. Reader Reviews—This is another tricky rating that said the characters “were so area because there are what we authors naughty!” She did not like the book and fondly call trolls out there who love to write mentioned naughty twice in her two- snarky/bad reviews for most books they sentence review. Not only was her opinion of choose. If I’m reading reviews to get a feel “naughty” subjective (premarital sex?) but it for the book, I look at the bad reviewer’s turned out to be the best bad review I ever history to see if they are a repeat offender of had. Some readers love naughty and I’m sure bad/snarky reviews with low stars. In my I sold books to anyone wanting to see how blog on how to review a book, I mention that naughty it could get! So there. you don’t have to save your 5-star review for 7. Contest Winner—If the novel won a contest only one book in your lifetime. If you loved —I judge the merit of the contest by its the book, give it top stars. For some reason, name and credibility—it is probably written certain genres are less likely to get reviews well for that genre. Eg. Grandma’s Contest vs than others. Romance readers tend to read RONE Award. The RONEs are the most quickly and not review as much as Suspense comprehensive contest out there and highly readers. Go igure. If the book I’m respected. Any RONE winner carries great considering is expensive and the stars are a credibility.

30 8. Author Book List—Sometimes I go to the your action even if you end up not reading the author’s Amazon page to see what else they book in the end. wrote, if I’m on the fence about my Helpful Hint: Don’t return a free book (unbuy) investment. Are they a Bestselling Author in unless you want to send a message to the author Cowboy Romance and I’m considering their that their effort was garbage. If it’s free and you new Sci-Fi Thriller? If the price is low and it didn’t like it, simply delete it from your list. looks good, I’ll still take a chance. If this is the author’s sixth book, there’s a good chance And lastly, if you read a book—and only if you they’ve igured out this writing thing. inish the thing to the last page—you might want Sometimes I just check out the author to be to write a review. Readers who don’t inish the Snoopy McSnooperson. book should not review. If a book has only a few reviews, that is message enough to other readers 9. Sample pages—Amazon allows you to read without a diatribe. There is no need to be mean, pages. Make sure you read at least the irst even if it makes you feel empowered. Simply few pages and not stop at the beginning abstain. paragraph if it doesn’t reach out and grab you. Certain types of books start softly; some A good review, to a writer, is like getting a begin with a vengeance. The writer might hit chocolate cake at the front door with a fork. We her or his stride on the second page. Book live for these things and dream about the 5-star beginnings are the devil so give the author a kind where the reader chose correctly, read to chance. the end, loved the experience, and took the time to tell the world. Like buying anything, choosing wisely is important. Choose wisely, my friends, and enjoy your foray into someone else’s heart and soul! If the book is free and it looks enjoyable, I encourage you to grab it. The author has spent months, possibly years of her life, pouring her heart into the story and will be encouraged by

31 32 33 By: Barbara Gaskell Denvil Romantic Ideals For Real? Lord Byron As an author of historical fiction, I am fascinated at how much our ideas of romance and heroic ideals have changed over the years.

In books, we are often presented with genuine characters from the past, shown to us as we might like them to be. But this is often more wishful thinking than fact. Yes indeed, a great deal has changed. Slipping back through the centuries, we can revisit some of those who were seen as romantic heroes during their lifetime. Lord George Byron was considered the most romantically desirable gentleman of his day. He had an incurable club foot, but was a highly talented poet and excessively handsome. Several women made complete idiots of themselves over him, and falling in love with Lord Byron was thoroughly fashionable. He had passionate love affairs (with both sexes), and his poetry was quite exceptional. Born in the late 1700s to an aristocratic family, he was celebrated as the ideal romantic lover of that ideally romantic period. But the truth is never so simple. Lord Byron’s love affairs never endured, and the several illegitimate children he fathered were not always well provided for. A scandalous rumour associating him with his half-sister sent him scurrying to escape abroad. He amassed enormous debts, and was overly preoccupied with his diet, his weight, and his appearance, often living his days on no Napoleon more than biscuits and wine. He lived the second half of his life in Italy and Greece, where he died in 1824 aged only 36 years. A dificult young man, and although he certainly its the romantic ideal, I think he would have caused more problems than pleasure. Self-obsessed, weak and in debt? No, not romantic in my eyes. Lord Wellington was indeed a romantic hero of the Regency and Victorian period. Born in 1769, he led Britain to amazing victory against Napoleon during the most bitter and desperate wars of that period.

34 His great enemy Napoleon, although born in the same year, was a very different character but he went out of his way to appear as a romantic hero, and it is equally true that he succeeded in that aim both at the time and afterwards. Yet, in spite of his amazing rise from insigniicance and his even more amazing interim success, he was not a very nice person. Not at all. Although they were both great warriors and leaders of men, in so many ways neither was naturally romantic. Wellington was tall, intelligent, and somewhat stiff-backed. But the stiff back was fashionable at the time, and in his military uniform, he was a handsome man. His military strategies were brilliant, he believed in leading from the front, and he was known to have an excellent relationship with his men from generals down to privates. He loved The First Earl of Rochester women and his initial courtship of his wife, against her family’s wishes, was romantic indeed. However, the marriage does not seem to have been a lasting success although his country continued to adore him. Napoleon was born to obscurity in Corsica, yet grew to be broodingly handsome, outrageously enterprising, determined and egoistically arrogant. His love affairs and brilliant military success added to the romantic ideal. But he was also cruel, incredibly self- obsessed and interested principally in his own wealth and status at the cost of almost everyone else, meanwhile causing devastation and misery across Europe to serve his own raging personal ambition. On the ghastly retreat from Moscow, his pitiful army was left to freeze and die on the long march, while Napoleon abandoned them all and hurried back to warmth and comfort in France. He stole from all the countries he conquered and vandalized, claiming a throne wherever he could emblazon himself. Finally plump, greedy and coarse, this was certainly not the natural romantic he might originally have seemed. The first Earl of Rochester was a hero during the English civil war, helping save the young Charles II’s life while escaping the country after his father’s execution. But for all his courage, the earl couldn’t face being a father. His only son, therefore, never knew his father. So the second earl, young John Wilmot, grew up with only his somewhat narrow minded and domineering mother! Tall and handsome, Rochester was an intellectual and a brilliant wit, a thoroughly unique character, wildly promiscuous, friend but also critic of the new king during the Restoration period, and an Sir Walter Raleigh absolutely brilliant poet when poetry was all the rage amongst the nobility. He over-drank, over-whored, and had the most vividly delicious and wicked sense of humor. The young earl courted an heiress, but was rejected by her guardians since, even though titled, he was utterly without wealth or property. He then attempted an abduction (what could be more romantic?) but failed (not so romantic after all!). The lady was saved (although almost certainly she helped plan the abduction herself) and Rochester was dragged off to the Tower and imprisoned. Romantic again! Once released, off our hero went to join the war against the Dutch, and became a genuine naval hero, showing enormous courage

35 under-ire. Romance again! And even more so when the 19 yr. old earl rode home from the war and eloped with the same woman he had attempted to abduct before. They do deinitely appear to have been madly in love with each other, but of course it didn’t end so well. It never does. Rochester was constantly unfaithful, had a particularly long affair with an actress (whom, it is said, he actually taught to act) , had a love child which he then adopted after the mother proved to be a better actress than a mother, quarrelled with the king and almost everyone else, drank himself silly, never had a penny, caught syphilis and died at 33 in dreadful agony. Deinitely a romantic hero, this was also a man bathed in faults.

Shakespeare Sir Walter Raleigh, the dashing Elizabethan adventurer, was more of a pirate than anything else and the story of the cloak spread for his queen to save her from the ignominy of puddles, is almost certainly apocryphal. Dashing perhaps – but no Captain Jack Sparrow! He was no great lover, but simply a courageous rascal who stole from one country for the advantage of his own queen, and his own pocket. Later doomed to the same ignominious fate as so many during the Tudor period, his romantic credentials faded. Shakespeare is not so much a romantic hero himself, but he is certainly the creator of many, and some of his plays virtually invented the ideal of romantic iction. We know very little of his life and character, but he is often suspected of marrying his (older) wife only because he had got her pregnant, and then deserted her for a more interesting life on the stage in London. But this is an assumption which has as much to do with iction as the theatre itself. Because of this man’s writing, it is clear he understood love and beauty. Shakespeare’s move to London was a common occurrence of those days since local work could be hard to ind and he returned on many occasions although we have no idea how often. Certainly the death of his only son is tragically echoed in his work. Richard III takes us on another leap back through the the late 15th century. Richard III might seem the most unlikely of romantic heroes. Yet lately he has claimed this position, although equally hated by others. Later Tudor propaganda and a lack of contemporary documentation Richard III brings us a confused picture of this remarkable man. King Richard II has been presented as a monstrous tyrant and murderer who slaughtered his two innocent young nephews, plotted to usurp the throne, planned incest with his niece, and deserved the wretched death he suffered at the age of only 32. Yet there is not a single shred of proof nor even supporting evidence. Indeed, we have no real idea whether the two young princes in the Tower were ever murdered by anyone, while there is strong evidence indicating that Richard was no usurper, but instead was a truly elected monarch. We now know he suffered from scoliosis, which would have begun during his early teens, so tragic for a young man brought up to be a warrior, and expecting to ight hand to hand in the brutally death or glory battles of the era. But it is on record that he died bravely, and during his reign he introduced increased equality and justice. It would seem he was a faithful husband, religiously devout, and immensely loyal to his friends and country.

36 I admire this man and like the sound of him – the brief evidence of humor – the courage and the intellect. But does this make him a romantic igure? Well, he lived at a time when brutality was accepted, and although torture at that time was illegal, executions were common and could be horrifying. Henry V, another English king, was the great romantic hero of Agincourt. And yet Henry V was a religious fanatic who ordered the burning alive of those piteous believers in a slightly different religious doctrine. His success in France was probably more of their loss than his gain, and he did not linch at killing prisoners who had already surrendered, and burning everything in his path so that the Henry V poor farmers and villagers along his route were left dead, dying or utterly destitute for many years to come, long after Henry sailed home with a snug victory beneath his belt and the French princess for his bed. William Wallace, was, I’m afraid, nothing whatsoever like the ilm ‘Brave Heart”, which was one of the least historically accurate ilms ever made. But the romantic igure of Scottish idealism was alive and kicking long before Hollywood came to call. He is a particular hero of the Scots to this day, but we don’t know all that much about him and the little we do know is not all good. Born in Scotland around 1270 to parents of the local nobility, he gave no clues to his life or background until battle elevated him to romantic heroism. He was probably never married. After a somewhat controversial arrangement between the English royalty of the time, and the Scottish lords, England claimed Scotland under English rule. William Wallace along with large numbers of Scots, had considerable argument with this, and waged a war of Independence. Wallace was the magniicent and heroic leader at the battle of Stirling Bridge, where, against outstanding odds, he was the victor. But he was not always so lucky nor so ingenious. Disliked and eventually betrayed by the Scots themselves, he was handed over to the English for execution, and then hung, drawn and quartered. So many more possible romantic heroes smile and beckon from the past, but do we really want to know the truth? It seems that iction really is far more romantic than truth. And what exactly constitutes romance in both fact and iction, anyway? And do we all want the same thing? Handsome! A little wild! A great lover! Arrogant, perhaps, and a courageous warrior! Yet the romantic ideal would rarely make a great husband in everyday life. Is he even realistic? We yearn for the William Wallace man who irst seems untamable, who is then, inexplicably devoted when he falls in love, and changes – just for us! So as the author of historical iction, I dream of time-travel. My new novel “Fair Weather” explores the romance of the perfect hero. Vespasian Fairweather is not his real name, but who he really is remains elusive. He is handsome, dangerous, and unobtainable. Now, have we heard that somewhere before? After all, in the end it is iction which offers us the best dreams, and the heroic igures of history are inevitably ictionalized too.

37 38 By: S.L. Carpenter TheCon Man Every year I look through a calendar of events for writers, readers, publishers, agents, artists, and anyone who has anything to do with writing and business of books. There are conferences for just about everything you can imagine, all across the country and around the world. The whole book convention spectrum is insanely colorful.

I pick out a couple each year—I try to stay close to home, so I don't get lost somewhere strange and actually have to ask Siri for directions or read a map. (I know, it's a guy thing). Then comes the planning for my adventures into the world of the writing community. I bring this up because summer sees the conference season in full swing. Yes, you may spend hours in airports, on planes, or in your car as you make your way to meet your favorite author. But remember, it’s a much needed break from the kids scurrying around the house screaming, “Mom, mommy, mum, mom, mommy, mom...” or the hubby asking, “What’s for dinner?” A break we all certainly deserve. I like going to conferences. I like meeting people and having time to relax. I also happen to like letting the perverted little weirdos in my brain loose on the masses...Mwuuahaahahaha! But there are so many things to enjoy at a conference, that it’s pretty safe to say there’s something for everyone. If you’re a reader, you can meet authors you enjoy. Here’s the chance to ask questions about your favorite book boyfriends, what's next in a series, and…why did that mean little bitch have to destroy the relationship between the hero and heroine right before the wedding (and the sexy-time) because she had a crush on him from when they were dating and he told her she was psycho and then she stalked him for a long

39 time with this plan to ruin him and....umm, okay. I got My favorite place is actually the bar in the evening. a little carried away. Sorry about that. No, it's not because I enjoy a drink now and again, Readers usually get some of the best goodies too: even though there is a lot of that kind of enjoyment pens, bookmarks, little trinkets, mini-books, gift going on. It’s a place to see people relaxing in their baskets illed with autographed print books, and all real element and not necessarily having to be “on” for kinds of fun stuff. To be honest, I’ve always felt that an event. It's a nice spot to unwind, talk about your most conferences are geared more for authors to books, and swap thoughts and ideas with people who show their appreciation to and for their readers. It’s a share your love of the written word. chance to thank those folks who willingly walked into You also hear the good gossip. At one con, I heard the stories, wrote reviews, started chat groups, and whispers about an author, a Russian bodybuilder, and lost themselves within the worlds those authors his pet monkey, covered in coconut oil and feathers. created. Which, in some cases, can be a really twisted She was...well, the less said about that the better. But place. Because, let's face it, writers do tend to live in a it was really scandalous. fantasy world. Or at least I do. Most of the time. Being a man at these conferences does have pros and Often there are panels for both readers and writers. cons. Thankfully, the pros easily outnumber the cons. Some are focused on the craft, and new or aspiring I am asked to do manly things like heavy lifting, and authors can learn tips on writing and promotion, and I’m happy to help out because I like to. I feel more many other associated topics from people in the useful and yes, more macho and used in a good way, business. I've been to some that gave me great advice by damsels in distress. We all need to feel like we’re for character building, and others where I was—er— valuable alpha males, ladies. You know that all too asked to leave. I do write humorous erotic stories and well. If a panel needs a gentleman to volunteer, my wanted to ask a pertinent question that had to do odds of being picked are pretty darn good. Which is with the size of the largest…umm…never mind. You ine with me. I always hated being the last one picked get the point. for the team at school.

40 “Bottom line? A reader/ writer conference is like a smorgasbord of creativity and you’re bringing a big empty plate to the party. Fill it with everything that appeals to you.”

One of the negatives is inhaling so much estrogen. By bonus and you never know when a nose-picking shot the end of the event, I start feeling a little irritable and will come in handy. bloated, and get killer cramps now and again. I just Bottom line? A reader/writer conference is like a need some chocolate, a container of salted caramel smorgasbord of creativity and you’re bringing a big Ben and Jerry’s ice cream, and a good Jane Austen empty plate to the party. Fill it with everything that movie. I indulge in a good cry, then feel much better. appeals to you. Just stay away from Jose's Spinach Thank goodness, I always remember to pack extra Surprise. Yuck. pajamas and stretch pants. As usual, there is a method to this madness and we’re getting close to the point I hope to convey. Be patient —we’re almost there. Here’s my advice. If you’re a reader, writer, editor, publisher, or artist, go to a conference. Find one near you, if you prefer not to travel much, and have some fun. You will be among other people who believe they are just as crazy as you about the literary world of make believe. You don't have to go to every big, expensive event out there to meet and mingle with your peers. These days, more and more readers and writers are discovering smaller local events, and enjoying the chance to say, “Wow, I met what’s-her- name before she became famous.” You can be a part of helping others discover new authors, and take a few embarrassing pictures of them as well. An added

41 42 The Hot, The Handsome

Sean Hampt0n

43 Sean irst came to our attention in the unlikeliest of ways - he started doing promotions for us - for fun! Our mutual good friend Michael Foster was shooting some promos for InD’Scribe Con and Sean joined in. With no thought for compensation or reward, he helped us just because he felt it was something worthwhile. After visiting with him, we discovered he truly is an incredibly kind, genuine, positive person who is fun to be around and deserves every bit of success that comes his way. Read on and we’re sure you’ll agree!

SH: I was born and raised in the same small town in Florida. It was really weird, because growing, up no one thought I was from there because I didn't sound like most people there. InD: How do Floridians sound and act? SH: Well, a lot of people think they know all about Florida because they have been to Orlando or Miami—which I call the “commercial for Florida”—but a lot of Florida is like Alabama, as far as culture, people, geography, everything. It is not this Riviera that everybody thinks. A lot of it is very lat, country type. InD: The town of Ocala, where you grew up, is a small town? SH: A very small town. It is one of those places where if you blink, you will miss it. It was most known for its horses. InD: Was it a good place to grow up? SH: As a kid, I thought it was horrible because there was nothing to do. The mall was the biggest attraction. As an adult, I can see why you would raise your family there. InD: You did go away to college to study law… did you become a lawyer? SH: It was while studying law in college that I found out what lawyers actually do all day… that’s a LOT of reading and writing! I didn't want to do that. I wanted to be Denzel Washington in "Philadelphia". I wanted to be making those big speeches, giving closing arguments. That sort of thing. I realized I really didn't want to be a lawyer. I wanted to play one! InD: So what, you decided you wanted to be an actor instead?

44 SH: I knew I always wanted to act but I thought it just wasn't practical to be an actor. Plus, I come from a family of professionals. My grandparents were both doctors…my grandfather was a dentist and my grandmother was actually the irst female physician in the state of Florida. InD: I read that! You have got some big shoes to ill, sir! SH: Right! My dad was a dentist in our town for like 50 years. My mom was a model. You always think boys follow in their father's footsteps, but I didn't want to be a dentist. I always thought he would tell me to be practical, but when I actually talked to him, he said, “Regret can be one of the worst things in life, so if you want to be an actor you should at least go try. Then, if you get there and decide you don't want to do it anymore, that is ine, but at least go for it.” That was the big push I needed. InD: Did you want to be an actor from the time you were young or was it a “Wait a minute!” light bulb going off in college? SH: I think it was in 1990, when I saw "Total Recall" with Arnold Schwarzenegger. InD: And you sat there and said, "I want to do this!” SH: Right! I remember sitting in a theater and thinking, “This is what I want to do. I wanted to be him…not necessarily Arnold, but that guy on the screen!” InD: So you chose law because that is what Denzel Washington did, but it was his acting you really wanted to follow. SH: That is 100% correct. Think about it…I was fourteen or ifteen when the OJ Simpson thing happened, so there was Johnny Cochran on TV and everybody talking about him. He was a big celebrity. I was doing mock trials in high school and basically playing Johnny Cochran and Denzel in my head, and what is really funny, I got an award for the best lawyer in the state of Florida for mock trials! InD: The best fake lawyer in the state of Florida! Are you happy with the choice you made now? SH: Extremely happy. InD: So, you are in Ocala, Florida, the light bulb goes off, and dad says it’s okay to pursue acting, what happens? SH: My iancé (now my wife) and I packed up and drove to LA! It is really funny because you try and temper your expectations. You say, “Okay, I am not going to get famous right away. I am going to have to just work my way through the system. When we got here, I submitted to be an extra in a movie called "The Gridiron Gang”. One of The Rock’s irst big time movies, and I got the part! I was like, “Man, this is

45 won't even let you audition because you are not in this club!” But she says, “Oh, that is too bad. You should going to be so easy. I just send in a picture and I get deinitely be working more.” So, I come home delated. picked!” Obviously, I had LOT to learn! Friday, Saturday, and Sunday…I don't know if I even InD: What happened after? got off the couch. I igured I wasn't going to get hired, SH: Well, that was in 2005, so let’s fast forward to so when Monday comes and my agent calls and says, about 2008. “Hey, you got that part!” I was like, “What part?” and InD: Stop, stop, stop! Does that mean totally he says, "Eleventh Hour." “But I am not even in SAG.” dearth for the next three years? He says, “It doesn't matter.” SH: Let me try to explain without making it too long InD: Finally! You say you were really lucky, but it winded. In order to audition for any speaking part on took three years to get that luck. That is a TV show you have to be a member of SAG [Screen perseverance too. Actors Guild]. You can audition and not be a member SH: Yeah. I guess. It was just a big relief and I made a of SAG, but you are not going to get hired because the promise to God that if I’m ever in a position to help production will be ined for hiring you. Because I other people, I won't hesitant. That promise kind of wasn't in SAG, I couldn't get auditions. I couldn't really ties into me being a producer because in 2009, SAG get an agent. changed their rules. The term “New Media” came into So, why didn't I just join SAG? At the time, the rules existence. New media is any kind of entertainment were a catch 22. You couldn't audition to be in a SAG delivered over the Internet. YouTube is new media, project unless you had been in a SAG project. Well, for example, so SAG started making new media great! I could get other parts for movies, but it would contracts available, where you could hire non-union be just general crowd scenes. It wouldn't be anything people and make them eligible to join the union very speciic. So, that was what those three years were through new media production, without a ine. So for spent doing, trying to get those SAG vouchers. CBS, there are thousands and thousands of dollars in I inally got lucky. There was a CBS show called ines, but for a YouTube movie, there is not a ine. So, "Eleventh Hour". Whenever there is a new show, the in 2010, I produced my irst short ilm and I was able network doesn't really care how much money it costs to get the two actors who were in it into SAG. I have to put on because they want it to be successful. They been doing that ever since. I think I have helped about say, "We don't care how much it costs or how many twenty people so far. ines we have to pay get the best everybody for InD: That's wonderful! So once you got into SAG, everything. So, my agent at the time was able to get did things take off better for you? Was it me an audition to be “EMT #2”. I auditioned on a everything that you thought it was? Friday and the casting director looks at me and goes, SH: Yeah. It really has changed now. I just shot a TV "That was really, really good. You’re in SAG right?" I pilot called "Square Roots" which they did not pick up said, "No, but if you can help me out with that, just so you won't be seeing that on TV. I won't complain, give me a name and I will off anybody that you want." though, because I know there are tens of thousands of I mean, at that point we are talking three years of “I

46 people who would do whatever it took to be where I am. It gets harder to not become jaded with the more experience you get. I think it is almost a survival SH: I did have side jobs when I started. I did technique for humans. We learn to expect things and everything. I have worked at Baby’s R Us. I worked in we get to a point where we are focusing more on the human resources…but now I do production, like trafic or people than on what is really happening. I commercials or infomercials. am auditioning to be in a movie in Hollywood! I InD: So basically, this is a full time job and is what always try to keep that in the front of my mind. you do. You don't have to take the outside stuff. InD: What is your goal? Is it movies? Is it TV? Is it I That is awesome! want to be a star or just to act? Do you want to be SH: Fingers crossed. a celebrity? What would your dream be in that InD: How did that transform into modeling and area? working with Period Images? SH: You know, if I could choose, I would say that I SH: That came about through our mutual friend, want to be Larry David. I say Larry David because he Michael Foster. He and I met in 2008, on a reality created "Seinfeld". He made a fortune, of course, but show called "Gene Simmons Family Jewels.” In the he was also a writer and a producer AND an actor, episode where Gene's daughter wanted to start a just like I am. There are SO many things to learn and handy man business called “Hunks with Hammers”, do in any profession. There is always the fun stuff… the premise being, instead of the traditional burly the reason you got into your career, but then there plumber who would show up and ix your sink, it are always those things that come with any job that would be this crew of hot guys. We were on this crew. make it a “job”. There is no job in the world that InD: So, that was really set up. There were actors doesn't have its level of BS. Even being a bum on coming out there to act the part. Venice Beach has its level of garbage you have to take SH: Oh yeah. Here is why they call reality shows with it. You have to deal with all the tourists, the “unscripted”…if this was a TV show with a script, they birds, the grass… would have walked in and said, “Okay, Gene, we are InD: So true! On the other hand, I have often told going to start in on page eighteen, go ahead and start people—about founding and publishing a on your irst line.” and he would read the line and magazine and making it work—that it is amazing they would ilm it. On a reality show, they come in and what you can do when you are too stupid to know say, “Okay, Gene, in this scene your daughter is going any better. Who would ever go into these things if to start a business. She is going to tell you what it is we knew how much hard WORK it would be! about and you tell her what you think.” SH: That is a great way to put it. I am going to use InD: So, they just basically let you ad lib it. that! SH: Right. There might be a time where they want you InD: It’s very true in my case. I am amazed at what to say a speciic line, like at some point, you need to can be accomplished when you don't know any say speciic words, but really it is just, “Here is what is better! Did, or do you, have a side job as you are going to happen, let’s see how it goes.” doing all of this?

47 48 school to learn how to take pictures.” He said, “It is the same as being on ilm, they are just taking a picture instead of shooting a moving video.” And for some reason when he said that I thought, “Okay.” That was how I got started! InD: So, you went to a shoot, how was it? SH: It was so great! Everyone there was so nice and supportive. I told my mom it was like I was honoring her because I had never modeled before, that was her world. InD: That was something that she could relate to. What did she say about it? SH: I could tell that she was very happy that one of her kids is following her. InD: In that way, it is not like being a dentist or something. Everybody knows what he does. But everybody doesn't get the world of a model or an InD: That is very interesting. Did you and Michael actor. I think it would be neat that one of her just hit it off and got to be friends? children would at least understand her world. SH: It was like kindred spirits, where you just SH: I think it really is. instantly connect with that person. I feel like I have InD: So, what was it like to see your face on the known him my entire life. It is really funny because cover for the irst time? after that irst day, I didn't see him again regularly SH: This may sound funny, but I didn’t even realize it. until 2014, when we inally worked together again… I was thinking, “That guy looks like me. He is more and I have seen him every day since then. attractive, but that looks like me.” It took a second, InD: Then one day he says, “Do you want to be a then it was like, “Oh my gosh!” It is a very surreal model on a romance cover?” How did that work? experience. SH: It was so funny…it was something he did, but I InD: I think your acting would help in modeling never once considered doing it. I was like, “I am not a because you can transform into whatever it is that model. I am an actor. I don't think those skills they are telling you they want. translate with each other. If I get to be a really famous SH: Yeah, that is what they say. Being expressive is actor, I will take modeling jobs, sure—that is what what sells it. they do.” But, even though I had never considered it, I InD: You said something about you love to read have always held it in such a high regard. and love to write, so what are you reading? One day he was talking to VJ (of Period Images) and SH: Right now I am reading kind of a turn of the asked her why there are not many African American century self-help book. model pictures out there. She said she had a hard time InD: Motivational stuff? inding models. He texted me and said, “Can you send SH: Yeah, essentially. There is an author name me some face shots and maybe some dramatic Napoleon Hill, who is kind of the architect for pictures or something?” and I said, “Sure” because anything you hear now, like "The Secret" is his work amongst actors we are always doing that. I sent them repackaged. Tony Robbins is basically Napoleon Hill and when I saw him again he told me it was because repackaged from the 1930's, but all of the information he wanted to give them to VJ. She said she absolutely is applicable today. There is someone even older than loved them. I looked at him and said, “I am not a him named Wallace Wattles and I read some of his model. I don't know how to do that. I didn't go to

49 you discover these new restaurants. It is a way to discover nicer restaurants you might not ever go to. So, I would say that my perfect evening would be my wife and I would get dressed up and go to one of those nice restaurants and we would make an evening out of it. We would have drinks and dinner and then we go to a different place and have dessert and after dinner drinks. InD: If you are going to those really nice places and you could choose which one to go to because of the food, what would it be? SH: My favorite kind of food is Italian, so it would deinitely be a high end Italian. I prefer those new places with the coupons is because I like trying new and exotic dishes. At the high end places, I know it is work too. I just love the idea that these books were going to taste as good as it gets. There is a place we written, in some cases, over 100 years ago, yet you went to last year where they had squid ink spaghetti. can just change a few words and it’s still applicable It’s spaghetti but they mix in squid ink so it is black. It today. Like you could change Rockefeller to Gates and has a very peculiar taste to it, but I knew that would it is the exact same thing. My favorite subject in be the only place I could get it and it would be really school was always history, so I think that probably authentic. If I went to Denny's and got the squid ink ties in. I love the fact that the more things change the pasta, I doubt that it is going to be the best there is. I more they stay the same. mean, they may have really good food, but they aren't InD: Do you read a lot? going to have the best squid ink pasta. SH: I try to read every day. My wife is an English InD: But squid ink...how was it? teacher so I guess I kind of have to. SH: It is very salty and it is black. InD: That is cool! What grades does she teach? InD: Okay, who the heck thought to take squid ink SH: She teaches eleventh and twelfth Advanced and turn it into a spaghetti dish? Placement English college level classes. InD: That is awesome! You also said you like to write. What do you write? SH: Yes. I write scripts, not books. I never tried to write a book before. I am kind of intimidated by the process because you have to be so vivid in your words, but for scripts, I can just type out what the scene looks like. You know, I will be able to direct it and make it look a certain way, so that is okay. For books, you have to use only your words and you have to know how the human imagination works to get the readers to see what you are seeing. InD: You know, that is really interesting Sean, because most of the people I interview are authors. Writing a script is just daunting to them because you have to boil it down to nothing but a few words and a scene to express all of what they describe, so isn't that interesting you are at the exact opposite. You are looking at the same thing from two totally different perspectives. Okay, we have to have some fun stuff for our readers. What is your idea of a perfect date night? SH: My wife and I like to use this app called “Blackboard Eats”. Essentially, it is high end restaurants that will give you an electronic coupon to use at their place. So you will get like 30% off, or a free bottle of wine, or something like that. It helps

50 SH: I would love that! I think that would be great, but I think that there are some models I have met who are just not on the same page, I guess. No bad pun intended! (both laughing) There are some models who are kind of arrogant about it. “I don't read the books. I am just on the cover” kind of thing. I have a very different attitude. I’m like, “Dude, I am not special. I am blessed with an opportunity and I appreciate it!” The other thing that really surprises me is when people want to take a picture with me and say, “Thank you so much for taking your picture with me!” I say, “I should be thanking YOU!” I am just a geek who likes “Star Trek”. I am not out partying on Friday night. I am watching “Star Trek the Next Generation!” So, I always try to be as authentic as possible, to appreciate everyone and let people know it is not an act. I really do appreciate every single SH: Right! Probably the same person who saw a cow opportunity I get. for the irst time and said, “Hey I wonder what is in those things hanging off?” InD: That is true! Okay, for dessert what would you do? SH: My favorite, and this is my Floridian coming out, is key lime pie. If I could have great Italian with perfect key lime pie that would be awesome! InD: The perfect evening! SH: Yeah! I love Los Angeles, but key lime pie is just one of those things I have never had as good as it is in Florida. If I found a place here as good as that, it would be great! No more cover modeling, but I would be happy! (both laughing) InD: What else? What would you like people to know about you? SH: I hope that my authenticity shows through in anything I do. I have been granted this opportunity to be in something exceptional. There is a huge disconnect, in my opinion, between authors and cover models. People ask me how many covers I’ve been on and I have to say, “I honestly don't know.” People will say, “How could you not know?” The process is; you do a shoot, people buy the stock photo, put the picture on their books, and publish them. The models don't get an email saying, “Hey, a book was published with your picture on it!” unless the author contacts you personally. So basically, you search through Amazon like everyone else, looking for your picture. I try not to have a disconnect, if I know an author is getting me for a shoot or something, I do a lot of Facebook live chats and I love talking to the authors and readers and I’ll do my best to help sell the books, if I know I’m on their cover. InD: I have always thought it would it be nice if authors let the models know when they use them on their books. Would you like that?

51 52 53 Are you serious? June Dawson tapped Send on her phone and smiled as the chime conirmed her sent text. Her best friend Sydney was planning an all-girls weekend on one of the Hawaiian islands before she married at the end of the summer. Typical Sydney. Everything about Sydney had always been over the top, whereas everything about June was, well, middle class, average, run-of the- mill . . . There were dozens of clichés June could identify herself with. Her phone chimed again from the group chat with a text from Maria. I’m in! Maria texted. Everything was easy for Maria, who bubbled with enthusiasm about the smallest things in life. Maria made snap decisions, and they were always the right ones. In fact, if June had to place a bet, she would have bet Maria would marry irst out of the three friends. As it was, Maria had a pretty serious boyfriend, who she was positive would propose within weeks. I hope he does propose. June wasn’t even dating, but she had no problem being happy for her two best friends. Sydney, Maria, and June had become friends when Maria moved into their Seattle suburb. They’d all attended the same high school and been assigned to a group American history class project their senior year. June had known who Sydney was from afar as the class president and valedictorian, not to mention the homecoming queen. Sydney had always been popular in high school, Episode 1 and June . . . not even close. It was Maria who bridged the gap between them when they had to work on the history project.

54 Once June got to know Sydney, they became fast And Sydney would make a beautiful bride. Blessed friends, and Maria completed the friendship circle. with a petite body, soft blonde hair, and gorgeous When they all roomed together at Washington hazel eyes, Sydney could wear a yoga outit and look University, June worried that after graduation, they’d like she’d just arrived from a magazine photoshoot. hardly see each other again. After a few more minutes of texting, June inally She was wrong. wrote, Gotta go, ladies. I’ll let you know if I can get the Sydney planned semi-annual all-girl vacations, and vacation days as soon as I ind out. Maria had created a private Facebook group where Hot date? Sydney immediately texted back. they posted their pictures and updates and sometimes I need to look that up in the dictionary to know what had late-night chats. you mean. LOL, June texted. She hadn’t been on a date I’m serious, June, and don’t tell us you’re working, in months. After she and Kevin broke up over six Sydney texted. We all have jobs, and that’s why months ago, she hadn’t gotten back into the dating corporate America mandates vacations. Did you know scene like she thought she might. It was just as well, the French take off the entire month of August? she decided. Two of her co-workers were going June read through the text twice. Then she checked through divorces, and June herself came from a her phone calendar for the dates Sydney had divorced family. Single life wasn’t bad—although, at proposed. June worked for a national pet store chain age twenty-six, she was starting to tear up when she as the director of accounting, and she couldn’t miss saw adorable baby pictures posted on Facebook. All anything on the corporate level. At least she didn’t the better that Sydney and Maria get married and have any corporate meetings that week—those would start having babies June could spoil. be the following week. And . . . her last vacation had No new men in your life? Sydney pressed. been ive months ago when she, Sydney, and Maria Not unless you count Ofice Mike, who asked me out had gone to Jackson Hole, Wyoming. again last week, June answered. I’ll tell you all the Somehow she and her best friends had all ended up boring details in Maui. working in a different state after college graduation. You’d better! I love Ofice Mike stories! Maria chimed June was in Portland, Sydney in Santa Rosa, where she in. worked as vice president of a software irm, and Maria had stayed in Seattle, working in Internet marketing. Moments later, June was buried in her work, sure Sydney and Maria were plotting to set her up with June scrolled to the beginning of the texting strand. someone—even though they all lived in different Sydney wanted to book a bungalow in Maui at a posh states. June had no doubt Sydney would try to ind a resort. June tapped on the link in the text, and it pulled way. June really did want to be in a relationship, but up her browser and opened to the resort’s web page. when she compared herself to the other single women Just seeing the crystal-blue ocean edging the beautiful she was around—heck, to her two best friends—June resort nearly made June’s decision for her. was just average. She turned to her laptop and illed out a vacation What other twenty-six-year-old single woman request form. She didn’t want to commit until she preferred to stay in on a weekend night and read a knew she could get the days off. Maybe she was too guilty-pleasure novel? June had discovered Regency cautious and practical, at least, she’d often been romances her senior year in high school, and ever accused as such. But that was her strength as a since then, they had become a reward after inishing a corporate-level accountant. deadline or achieving a goal. And, truth be told, the June texted the girls and told them she’d made a heroes in those Regencies were quite . . . heroic. Of vacation request. They both sent cheering texts in course the heroines were always interesting and a bit reply, and June laughed at their enthusiasm. At least charmed in life. June’s life was far from charmed. someone was excited to spend time with her. The The novels weren’t real, nor were the characters in subsequent texts were mostly between Sydney and them, but when June closed the book with a happy Maria as they discussed Sydney’s wedding dress. Both sigh, she hoped that one day she’d have a man look at of June’s friends knew she was a fashion accident her like she was the most important woman in the waiting to happen, so they probably weren’t too world. surprised when June had little to offer, except for, You’ll look beautiful. That night she received a conirmation from corporate that she could take her requested vacation days— human resources must be working overtime—and

5555 now June had a new thing to worry “So, tell us what’s going on with about. What was she going to look It felt great to relax, Josh,” Sydney asked Maria when like in a swimsuit after a long truly relax, June they’d settled into their seats. winter? Maria released a huge sigh. Two weeks later found June decided. An entire “Nothing’s going on. Well, I hugging Sydney and Maria at week without work, guess everything’s the same. the Honolulu Airport. They’d Which means nothing’s going each arranged their own lights or Office Mike leering on.” over and had managed to arrive at her, or nights “So no proposal in the works?” within a couple hours of each Sydney continued. other. spent alone in her “He’s really kind of a quiet guy,” “We have just enough time to get apartment. Maria said. “Which I like about something to eat before we catch him, but it also means we don’t the plane to Maui,” Sydney said. often talk about things beyond the June decided that each of her immediate.” friends looked fabulous—Sydney even more so than Sydney nodded as if she completely understood. June usual with her pre-bridal glow bringing a pink blush wished she had some advice, but truly, she was the to her creamy skin. And Maria’s olive skin made her last person to advise someone on boyfriend issues. look like she’d already spent a week in Paradise. June could already feel her usually straight hair starting to Just before June turned her phone off, a text came in. wave with the humidity. She’d probably end up She was surprised, yet not surprised, that the text was wearing it in a messy bun the entire trip. She had gone from Ofice Mike. She and a couple of ladies in to the effort to get a few highlights put in her hair so accounting had given him that nickname because he she didn’t look too drab from the Portland rainy had asked out every woman in their department. Only season. Lisa had been fool enough to go out with him. “Real food sounds great,” Maria said. “I’m starving. I Thinking about you on your vacation. Have a great don’t know what’s worse, sitting crammed between time & send me pics of you on the beach! two strangers for hours on end, or being forced to eat Which, in Ofice Mike lingo, meant he wanted pictures cardboard-tasting airplane food.” of her in her swimsuit. She showed the text to Sydney Sydney laughed, and June smiled. Her own light had and Maria, who both laughed. June had told them been delightful. She’d read an entire Sarah Eden plenty of Ofice Mike stories. He’d become the butt of Regency novel and had loved every minute of it. She many of their jokes when someone was having a bad had two more stashed in her suitcase. She’d have to day, such as: “Life could be worse—you could be download another book to her Kindle app if she ran dating Ofice Mike.” out of reading material. June had decided to take this “You should Photoshop your face onto a Victoria vacation seriously, and although she’d brought her Secret model,” Maria teased. “It’ll put him in the fetal laptop, she only planned to review her already position.” compiled notes for the upcoming corporate review. June laughed. “Don’t tempt me.” She powered off her “Hey, look at this,” Sydney said, digging into her phone without replying to Ofice Mike and settled brightly colored shoulder bag. “The resort sent us care back in her chair, listening to Sydney and Maria jump packages.” She handed over two gift bags decorated in around topics like they couldn’t wait to get everything red lowers. discussed in the irst hour of their vacation. June opened hers to ind a pair of sunglasses, a set of It felt great to relax, truly relax, June decided. An postcards, a water canister with the resort’s logo on it, entire week without work, or Ofice Mike leering at and a discount card to the hotel’s gift shop. “Oooh, her, or nights spent alone in her apartment. fancy,” June said, putting on the sunglasses. They were The friends barely had enough time to eat a pack of actually decent quality, although she didn’t recognize pretzels, and drink a Hawaiian guava juice, before the the brand name. plane touched down on the tarmac in Maui. If possible, After ordering teriyaki chicken rice bowls at one of the Maui was even more beautiful and pristine than Oahu. airport cafés, the women made their way to the A shuttle picked the ladies up and drove them to the Hawaiian Air terminal. resort, where they checked in at the main hotel lobby.

56 57 Then a bellhop offered to drive them to their he’d be clearly off limits. But as the surfer grew closer, bungalow in a golf cart, and as June sat with her June estimated him to be about thirty. girlfriends riding in the cart, the turquoise-blue ocean “Hello there,” he said, as he came within earshot. acting as a backdrop to the beautiful resort, she knew she was a lucky woman. His eyes were blue. No, green. Blue-green. Like a pond relecting a paradise-blue sky. June wanted to slap her She might go so far as to leave her phone off for the cheeks, then squeeze her eyes shut and start all over. rest of the day. Or maybe she’d leave her phone on but She couldn’t stop staring at him. His shoulders were only check her e-mail a few times. broad, his waist tapered, and his skin was brushed The bellhop dropped off their luggage, and while with a faint sunburn. So, maybe not a local. Maria and Sydney were ooing and ahhing over the “Hello,” Sydney called out in an enthusiastic voice. touristy décor of the bungalow, June walked out onto “Are you from around here?” the back patio. The warm, humid air smelled heavenly. Vines laced across a trellis that stretched over the He smiled. patio, and vibrant orange and red lowers bloomed It was like a jolt of lightening had physically pierced above. A small mosaic-tiled table sat in one corner of June in the stomach, and she stepped back. the patio with three white wicker chairs, and a gate “No, I’m here on vacation,” he said, tilting his head opened up onto a path that led straight to the beach. toward the next bungalow. “Looks like we’re It was like looking at a postcard picture. June followed neighbors.” the path, walking past another bungalow to the north, He was probably here with his gorgeous wife and two and stepped onto the pale yellow sand. She slipped off adorable kids, June decided. her shoes, left them by the path, and dug her toes into the ine gold granules. It felt luxurious. In the ocean, a Sydney stepped forward and held out her hand. The surfer was paddling toward the shore. The waves surfer shook it, that smile still on his face. “Nice to were mellow, and June decided the surfer wouldn’t meet you, neighbor,” Sydney said. “These are my have much luck today. She watched the idyllic scene as friends, Maria and June.” Her voice lingered on June’s the surfer strode out of the water, carrying his surf name for just a tad longer than necessary. “We’re here board under one arm. on vacation too.” Once he got to the dry sand, he set the board down The man nodded and said, “I’m Lance.” and peeled off his swim shirt, then shook his hair out. “You’re here alone?” Sydney pressed. June realized she was staring. The man had a washboard stomach, and not that she hadn’t seen His mouth quirked as if he found her question funny. them before—in magazines or on the beach in the Or maybe annoying. summer back home—but this man was looking right June wanted to melt into the sand. Lance’s gaze went at her. from Sydney to Maria, then stopped on June. She knew June’s face lushed, and she wanted to turn away, but she’d start blushing if he kept looking at her. that would look too obvious. She’d left her phone in “Technically I’m alone, although I’m hanging out with the bungalow, so she couldn’t pretend to be suddenly a friend who lives on the island,” Lance said. busy with that. No, she was practically rooted to her “A lady friend?” Sydney said, her voice lifting with a spot as the man strode toward her. Heart drumming, suggestive inlection. she wondered why he was walking her way, of all places on the beach. Lance chuckled. “Steve owns a chartering company a few miles down the coast. We go way back. He hooked “Wow, would you look at him?” Sydney said. me up with this place after he learned about . . .” His June linched. She hadn’t heard either Sydney or Maria eyes were on June again. “. . . my divorce.” approach. The women stood next to her, ogling the This time her blush couldn’t be held back. man. “So, you’re single?” Sydney asked in a coy voice. “Don’t stare,” June hissed. “He’s looking right at us.” “I am.” His brows arched over those beautiful ocean- “Mmm,” Sydney said. “Too bad I’m taken. I guess you colored eyes. “What about you ladies? On a girls’ have dibs on him, June.” weekend away from the husbands?” “I don’t have dibs on anyone,” June said, feeling panic “I’m engaged,” Sydney quickly said. “Maria here is shoot through her. She’d hoped for a moment that the almost engaged, but June is absolutely single.” man might be young—even a high school student—so

58 June didn’t know whether to laugh or to run back to the bungalow. She smiled at Lance, hoping he had a great sense of humor. Sydney could be a bit much until one got to know her. “Well, June,” Lance said, her name sounding mellow in that low tone of his. “I guess we’re the odd-men out. Or . . . women?” “Both, I guess,” June said in a too-high voice. This man was seriously gorgeous, but he was divorced—and there must be a story behind that. Besides, he was much too outdoorsy for her. June was still trying to gear up for donning a swimsuit this week. Let alone trying to surf. Or do whatever Lance did to get in such great shape. “Well, I’ll see you ladies later, I guess,” Lance said, lashing another smile. “Great to meet you all.” He turned toward his bungalow and walked away. Sydney elbowed June. “He’s really hot.” “Shh,” June said. “He can probably hear you.” Sydney only laughed, and then she and Maria started walking toward the water. June held back, needing to calm her heartrate and let her body temperature go back to normal. She found herself looking toward Lance’s bungalow, and to her mortiication, he’d propped his surf board against the patio wall and turned. Their eyes met, and when Lance smiled this time, she knew it was just for her.

59 60 AUDIOBOOKA REVIEWS: Whole Different Creature!

(Click here if you’d like to LISTEN to this article!)

With the crazy exponential growth of audiobooks year after year, listeners and fans have made it clear that they need help choosing the best in audiobook listening. People are conscious of the money they’re spending and are loathe to purchase a download they might not enjoy. I was scrolling through Audible’s listings today and while many were as affordable as $4.99, I saw that some audiobooks were priced as high as $63... hence the need for credible, coherent audiobook reviews and blogs.

WHO REVIEWS AUDIOBOOKS? publication is the pinnacle of all audiobook review A quick Google of “audiobook reviews” produces a organizations. long list of sites dedicated to evaluating and In addition to reviewing 400 audiobooks every 60 discussing different aspects of audiobooks. At the top days, AudioFile highlights upcoming audiobook titles, of the list is AudioFile Magazine. This is from their publishes interviews with authors and narrators site: “Since 1992 we have reviewed audiobooks, about their art, and works to connect teachers and original audio programs, and spoken-word programs. librarians with audiobooks. They also award Our focus is the audio presentation, not the critique of deserving audiobooks with “Earphones Awards” the written material and we explore audiobook throughout the year. “Earphones” are coveted by listening as a unique experience.” Nearly all narrators publishers and narrators because they recognize and publishers would agree that this bi-monthly “truly exceptional titles that excel in narrative voice

61 what criteria are used to evaluate an audiobook? Inherently, there are different components to an audiobook that merit careful attention in an audiobook review. AudioFile’s founder, Robin Whitten, states that their reviews focus on elements of the performance, and what sort of listening experience to expect. “Obviously we have to discuss the storyline, but we are not there to critique the author’s written work, or to give a plot summary…we may be critical of a performance choice, or the success of an accent, but we do not trash titles indiscriminately.” and style, characterizations, recognize the valuable suitability to audio, and contribution of independent Many factors besides the text are enhancement of the text.” audiobook listeners who review taken into consideration when and promote the format online. It evaluating audiobooks. You might There are other publications that download the audio for an award- dabble in audiobook reviews, but is an opportunity to not only reward their work, but also to winning book, only to discover not with the scope, volume, and poor recording quality with laser-focus of AudioFile. increase engaging discussions about audiobooks on the web and disconnected narration. Publisher’s Weekly, The Production quality is of Hufington Post, and the New to encourage new bloggers to join the conversation.” The 2016 paramount importance and can York Times all have added their make or break an audiobook voices to extoll the virtues of winner, Candace Levy, who runs audio, and expound on their most “Beth Fish Reads”, won two Mary Burkey is an independent recent listens. Goodreads and tickets to the black-tie Audie library consultant in Columbus, Booklist also address audiobooks. Awards® Gala held May 11th at But the bulk of reviews available the Adler Planetarium in Chicago. to consumers comes in a AUDIOBOOK REVIEWS ARE conglomeration of smaller VERY DIFFERENT organizations and bloggers. Many Audiobook fans are locking to of these are genre-speciic and the media for many reasons, have worked hard over the past including a lack of time to several years to establish dedicate to reading, the ease of themselves as a trusted resource multitasking while listening, and for guiding listeners to their next not least of all, the enjoyment of great audiobook. Reviewers such the performance. With the as “AudioGals”, “The Literate explosive growth of both Housewife”, and “Audiobook independent publishing of print Jukebox”, have garnered a loyal books and audiobooks, there has following. also been an increase in poorly- So important and inluential are written and poorly-narrated these independent reviewers that works. Listeners and readers the Audio Publishers Association alike have expressed, in formal (APA) added another category to reviews and opinions posted on their annual Audie Awards® social media, their displeasure at lineup: “Audiobook Blogger of the purchasing some of these. This Year”. APA President Linda Lee: underscores the value of a good “This contest was created to review from a trusted source. But

62 Ohio. She has served on all four of • Cultures and ethnicities should to the aforementioned sites and the American Library be presented authentically and reviewers, the general public can Association’s audiobook award without stereotype. Geographic leave reviews on Audible or committees as well as the Audies. terms, foreign terminology, and Amazon. However, audiobook In addition, she is the author other challenging phrases and connoisseurs recognize and of Audiobooks for Youth: A words should be pronounced appreciate that dedicated review Practical Guide to Sound correctly and with ease. sites specializing in thorough, Literature. She has put together well-written reviews usually • High-quality productions this list of the qualities of an maintain a clean, crisp sound provide a more reliable, outstanding audiobook: that allows for periods of intelligently-presented evaluation. There are also • The reading should be silence and a range of authentic and appropriate to dynamics; volume levels remain numerous pages and groups on content, with voices that match consistent. social media where all aspects of the time period and setting of audiobooks are discussed, • Music may be used as an including favorite narrators, the text as well as the genders, introduction or to delineate ages, and moods of the authors, latest releases, and mood, setting, or time changes. giveaways. characters. Background music must be REVIEWS ARE NOT JUST FOR • The narrator should use well- unobtrusive and not interrupt placed inlections and tones, the narrative low. CONSUMERS… conveying the prose through Reviews matter to consumers, • If sound effects are used, they engaging expression, emotion, subtly enhance rather than but there are other reasons why and energy. detract from the reading. reviews are helpful. A good review can boost a book and a • The narrator should • The recording should be free of narrator’s visibility and image. consistently maintain and sibilant or plosive microphone differentiate character voices, Narrators appreciate reviews pickups. Distractions result if because it means their work is accents, and dialects. Narrative the narrator moves off the descriptions (“He murmured,” being heard, and of course, we all microphone, speaks with an love the good ones! Narrators are for example) should be read overly dry or juicy mouth, or appropriately. increasingly apt to share these swallows loudly. gems on social media and also • Audios are not too loud or enjoy sharing glowing reviews of intense, do not have missing or their fellow-narrators (we’re a repeated text segments, do not very close-knit bunch of folks). show obvious dubbing or However, sometimes a recurring noticeable time differences in theme in reviews can help a recording sessions, or contain narrator improve, such as abrupt or lengthy chapter or comments about repetitive vocal line breaks indicate sloppy tendencies or poor character production values. voice choices. Other times reviews provide levity, and it has The packaging should correctly • happened more than once in the note title, author and narrator’s narrator forums that a thread names, running times, and gets started where narrators post abridgment status. their worst reviews, laughing • The audiobook must stand with each other and alone as a fully realized commiserating. In the spirit of expression of the author’s “Mean Celebrity Tweets”, here are intent and meaning. a few of the worst (names have WHERE CAN ONE FIND been removed, but spelling and AUDIOBOOK REVIEWS? punctuation have been left authentic): A simple Internet search using “audiobook reviews” will produce • “The voice over artist, has the thousands of results. In addition most boring voice it has ever

63 been my misfortune to encounter it sounds as if he annoyed me. His voice sounds a lot like a very isn’t quite following an auto-cue, following a large stoned Charlie Sheen…” ingestion of sleeping tablets.” • “I have never paid for sex from a streetwalker, but I • “She sounds like a college sophomore trying to imagine that this narration’s joyless and impatient impress her teacher who she has a crush on.” manner resembles this kind of work.” • “I would absolutely recommend this book to a • “Unless you enjoy the sound of ingernails scraping a friend, but a print copy. The audiobook narration chalkboard, you should save your ears and get the has me cursing like an outlaw biker as I listen to the dead tree version of the book.” many Muppet-sounding voices used for the • “On top of this, [the narrator’s] attempt at male characters. Please get a new narrator to re-record voices is jarring. All her male characters sound the this book.” same, like a frog who’s chain-smoked for 30 years.” “The characters were wonderful, and I look forward • • Who would you have cast as narrator instead? to returning to them. Someone, please tell [the “Anyone. A corpse. Someone who doesn’t speak narrator] that while he has an admirable range of English. Anyone would have been better.” male voices, every time he attempts a woman's voice he sounds like Blanche Devereaux on helium. • “… made worse by the narrator whose voice you just Ugh!” want to punch. I never thought I'd ever want to punch a voice...” • “Be forewarned, the narration is terrible. She sounded like a either Barbie or Barney.” • Any additional comments? “If you have trouble On that note, I’ll conclude. Watch for next month’s sleeping the narrator can take care of it InD’ear, in which I’ll walk readers through the process immediately.” of making an audiobook, from inception to retail. As always, I welcome your feedback and questions at • “The narrator, is the weakest part of this audiobook. InD’tale.com/columns/featured. His monotone reading of the story frequently

64 65 InD’Angel Landing Introducing: Torie James

Born on the planet Gallifrey in the constellation of Kasterborous,Torie is the love child of Han Solo and Daenerys Targaryen. Rescued by Gandalf shortly before her home planet was destroyed, she was raised in by her foster parents, Severus Snape and Pippi Longstocking. A self confessed chocoholic, she's been engaged to Willy Wonka for several years despite gossip surrounding a lifelong affair with Bruce Wayne. And clearly, she practices delusion on a daily basis. Fact is nowhere as fun as iction! Growing up, she could be found falling down rabbit holes, catching second stars to the right, and stepping through wardrobes into mysterious lands and countless adventures. When those stories ended, she made up her own and kept going. This later translated into a strong passion for writing that has helped her keep her feet on the ground while her head stayed irmly in the clouds. Her irst brush with romance novels came at the tender age of 8 when she ilched a Barbara Cartland dog eared paperback from her unassuming aunt and fell into a world of magic, wonder and entirely innocent G rated writing. (Seriously, the farthest Dame Cartland ever took any romantic scene was a chaste kiss and that generally didn’t occur until the very end.) She went on to greedily consume Johanna Lindsey, Jude Devereaux and Anne Rice when older. Now, Torie is a middle aged woman with moxie, no shame and a vivid imagination who loves to write and share her crazy with the world. Her future plans include, hopefully, buying a lovely Scottish castle and convincing Queen Elizabeth I that she'd make a fab addition to the Royal Family. In late fall of 2013, she got her 'brave' on and submitted a wee story, Timeless Night”, The irst book in a ive book “New Camelot” series about true love, honor, friendship and the magic within us all. It won the 2014 RONE Award for Best Paranormal. Since then, she's written many more books. Torie lives in Southern California, a stone's throw from Disneyland, with her family and the most ridiculously spoiled pets anyone could imagine. Her goals are simple: Keep reading, keep writing and never lose the determination to make life as random, quirky and beautiful as it can be.

Would you like to be a future InD’Angel? Join InD’tale Magazine’s Street Team, share and participate and you could be our next featured Angel Landing! https://www.facebook.com/ groups/244206495756460/ 66 67 Poetry Corner Shackles By: C.b. Roberts

I’ve never been broken, Never taking chances, Though slightly bent at Though it’s reckless I times. seem. I've learned to keep it From calculated risks covered up I build a dreamer’s And hide behind the dream. rhymes. The master of the game I'll be all you'll ever need, Who despises every play. Just don't look behind the I ight with no remorse, mask. So I live to ight another I feel everything day. completely, Though I'll lie if you ever I can't be beaten, can't be ask. broken, All my wounds have The strongest of the turned to scars. strong, Free at last, I live too fast I'll bear any load. Surrounded by these bars. I’m just a rambling man Looking for my next road. The best at being me, Almost too good to be Nobody gets in, true. Though many have tried. Who am I you ask? Many thought they had, I am who I am to you. But the truth is…I lied. I'll gladly lay it all down, So many things If you prove you're worth To so many people. the fall. Always blending in The best of me, the rest of Like a church with no me, steeple. To you...I'd give my all.

68 69 Guide to Our Reviews and Ratings: Our rating system is the standard 5 star rating system: 5 = exceptional 4 = excellent 3 = good 2 = fair 1 = poor CNF = If the problems in a book are such that a reviewer is unable to finish it, the book will be given to another reviewer to read. If both reviewers are unable to finish the book, it will receive the rating of “CNF” or “Could Not Finish”

We also rate the "Steam" or sex factor so readers can enjoy whatever level they are most comfortable with. The criteria is as follows: 1 Steam Kettle = Nothing but kisses 2 Steam Kettles = Passionate kissing, 3 Steam Kettles = Sex but the door is closed 4 Steam Kettles = Slightly steamy sex with some description 5 Steam Kettles = Steamy sex with somewhat graphic description

Those books receiving a 4.5 or a 5 star review will also be awarded the "Crowned Heart" for excellence. This symbol will be seen beside the review in the magazine.

70 Historical the odds. The backdrop for these into the arms of the vicious man stories, the 1800s, is a delightful who would become her husband. time in our history when women Tasked with inding Jessica, Drake chose to be mail order brides for has to choose between duty as a the adventure of it or to get away bounty hunter and claiming his from horrible circumstances. The heart's deepest desire. He just authors beautifully wove stories hoped Jessica's lame still burned of mostly maidens in distress and as bright as his own. brought them into newer and “Seize the Flame” is a good better circumstances than what balance of Wild West authenticity they left. Although the women are and star-crossed lovers with an Mail Order Bride Collection in bad situations, they also know ill-fated romance. The characters their minds and aren’t afraid to (A Timeless Romance pined for each other, and get their hands dirty, so they can Anthology Book 16) festering love turned dark over be a true helpmate for their man. the years from misunderstanding Stacy Henrie, Kristin Holt, A refreshing change to read and loss. Their pain was keenly Annette Lyon, something so clean and pure! felt, as were their hopes and Sarah M. Eden, Heather B. Belinda Wilson dreams. The reader rooted for Moore, Sian Ann Bessey their happily ever after and held their breath when it was threatened. The author's craft skillfully communicated the depths of their emotions allowing one to experience their journey Georgie loves Clay, but he doesn’t fully. One wished the ending was love her, so she places an ad in not rushed, but continued to “The Matrimonial News” to be a follow the same easy path as the mail-order bride. Clay realizes he majority of the tale; however, the loves her and writes, in hopes reader was left with a happy and she’ll marry him. Dr. Naomi runs satisied heart. from town amidst a scandal and Amy Willis answers Dr. Joe’s ad for a midwife Seize the Flame bride. She neglects to tell him she Lynda J.Cox is a doctor. When he learns of her Beauty and the Beast deceit, will he still want her? Marilyn lees town to avoid Sarah Winter marrying Victor. Marrying a stranger would be better. She answers an ad, only to ind that Jessica Dupre is out of options her groom is someone from her and has to make a choice - stay past, and he didn’t like her. Can and face her accusers, or lee the FAIRYTALE: Once upon a time they make this work? Carmela life she has hastily built for there was a cruel young Prince lees when her brother marries an herself. In the end, she runs, with named Leopold. Immensely undesirable. But when she no idea how far she will go or for spoiled, Leopold found humor in arrives, she learns her groom has how long - all she knows is that other's misfortune and one day just been buried! When Katie gets neither of the men hunting her unleashed his wrath upon an old there, her groom is in another can ind her. One was the man woman by the banks of the river state and no one knows when who stole her heart and shattered near his home. She was then he’ll be back. What will she do? it. The other broke her physically forgotten by everyone, not the This novel is an enchanting read. with his brutality. When a least of whom was Prince Leopold Six clean stories that still get the blizzard hits, Jessica hides in a - until his eighteenth birthday. idea across that there is much mountain shack to wait out the The old crone reappeared on that romance in the air. Six men and storm, but she is not alone. Drake day and found the same cruel, women who fall in love against Adams loved Jessica, but she ran ignorant boy habiting the form of from him on their wedding day

71 Historical a handsome young man. focus then necessary. Their Villeneuve Castle has never been bickering and general dialogue the same, and the villagers are rallies between wearisome and terriied of the mysterious immensely entertaining. Some of creature that haunts the place at the lesser characters fall night. We all know what happens somewhat lat in comparison and next - the merchant stranded in there is foul language used that the castle by a storm picks a can offend sensitive readers rose for his daughter and seals however the best is saved for last her fate forever - and this tale is when the romance is tender, hot exactly that. and delicious. A wonderful start Sarah Winter's retelling of the Mad About the Marquess to the Highland Brides series that is no doubt a series worth classic fairy tale is not much (Highland Brides #1) different than the original. In fact, surrendering to! nothing about the plot itself, the Elizabeth Essex Margaret Faria order of events, or the outcome is original. Readers will be turning pages, used to modern takes and twists in retellings of fairly tales, and will not ind any in this. Alasdair Colquhoun, the new However, what Ms. Winter has Marquess of Cairn, has returned done is taken pieces of every to Scotland and been given the version of this fairy tale from responsibility of discovering the known to obscure, and combined identity of the thief and them all into one cohesive piece highwayman attacking travelers of literature. The technical, in the local area. While in pursuit literary, and storytelling skill he begins to fall for none other needed to take pieces from than "wee Quince" - the much Love’s Fury everywhere to create a longer grown up Lady Quince Winthrop, version and do it well—and make a tempting lass full of high spirits. (Viking's Fury #1) He enlists her help to capture the no mistake, it is done incredibly Violetta Rand well—is astounding. From the brigand; however there is much Grimms Brothers’ version to more to Quince than Alasdair irst Disney’s, readers will see parts of anticipates and instead of an every single one of them in her agreeable adversary they are at account, and it is all seamlessly odds in more ways than one. done. Unknown to Alasdair, Quince is in Sylvia has lived a sheltered life fact the thief he searches for. She with her father, who works with Julie York robs the rich to give to the poor. monks in ninth-century York, Keeping the truth a secret and Northumbria. The innocent giving in to their desires becomes scholar loses everything, more than what either had including her beloved father, bargained for. when the Danish invade. Konal Quince Winthrop is a clever and the Red, named so for his vicious feisty woman that is a force to be ighting abilities, is a Norwegian reckoned with. Unafraid of danger serving under the Danish Prince she its in with many of today's Ivarr to fulill a lost bet with his heroines who are changing the brother. When Konal crosses weak damsel in distress image. Sylvia amongst the scrolls she The story begins bold and strong cherishes, he immediately with Alasdair and Quince playing recognizes her iery, Valkyrie-like a cat-and-mouse game which potential, and claims her as his plays out for the duration of the own thrall, or spoil of war. book occasionally taking far more Released from his contract to the

72 Historical Danish Prince, he intends to bed talk about and the terminology Sylvia and return to Norway as an used seem a little too modern for established and respected warrior the setting. Numerous location among his own people. But will change headlines inside the the iery Sylvia prove too much to chapter—especially when the walk away from and forget? change is to just down the street This quick read is packed with —only serve to yank the reader more action, passion, and from the story. There are many storyline than novels twice its scenes which serve absolutely no length! Sylvia’s character, written purpose to the plot or subplots, with a well-balanced mixture of which is a travesty because the actual story itself is amazing - a intelligence, wanton curiosity, Across the Red and bravado, is interesting historical Texas whodunit, with without being the least bit Ken Famer, multiple ties and threads, and an ending twist that no one will see irritating. Konal is brave and Buck Stienke capable, with a bold side of sexy, coming! but it’s his honor that’s most Julie York appealing in this Viking romance. His need to protect Sylvia even after his plans for departure is heart-warming. The fact that they Bodie is a Texas Ranger whose both seem to understand each area is being plagued by a violent other’s losses is touching, as is the gang of rustlers who have no message of forgiveness and problems killing anyone in their acceptance. A nice build-up to a way, including Bodie’s young tastefully done love scene was the apprentice. Unable to solve the icing on the cake. This story’s only problem himself, he inds fault was that it ended too reinforcements from friends who abruptly, with no warning or are fellow Rangers and a couple of follow-up to the characters’ well-known US Marshalls. No one outcome. Other than that, a wants an all-out war except the At Winter’s Demand fabulous read! rustlers, who decide to upgrade (Thieves of Winter #2) from stealing and murdering a Lori Leger Ranger to killing US Calvary Kirsten S. Blacketer soldiers. Bodie and his cohorts are wonderfully colorful characters, with dialogue written true to the VICTORIAN: Judith’s sister has time, but never so much as to been carried off right in front of make it impossible to understand her, and the man who stayed —a rare gift among dialect-using behind isn’t saying much - only authors. What pulls readers away doing a search of every nook and from enjoying the authentic cranny in her house. After dialect is the head spinning, knocking him senseless and tying overwhelming amount of details him up, she inally gets answers in this story - nearly none of about why he is there and what which are needed, and do not happened to her sister. Simon enhance the narrative. Readers only wants to recover the jewels like details for authenticity and his friend says were taken, and lavor, but when every paragraph then go home to London. He seems to have multiple sentences doesn’t want to answer questions with minutiae buried inside, it or deal with a woman but Judith becomes laborious to read. Some has pluck, something he inds he of the knowledge the characters can’t help liking.

73 74 Historical Judith has a solid backbone, unexpectedly inds himself High especially for a Victorian woman. King of Britain he can’t afford a It’s plain why Simon is intrigued love match. An arranged marriage and falls for her. The writing and to Guinevere gives him the best description gives a reader just advantage and while Guinevere enough details, yet still allows for wants nothing more than to deny an individual mental image. It him, she acquiesces, becoming the says Book Two of three, but that High Queen of Britain and the irst is a misnomer. This appears to be battle queen in generations. the middle part of a full book, Affection grows between them, broken into pieces as a serial. but adversaries near and far plot There is no real beginning and no to divide them. The years pass as Mad For Love real ending, this is purely the they suffer joys and sorrows, middle of a story. It reads as if hardships and bounty, but it’s Elizabeth Essex beginning with the very next when Arthur seeks and inds the chapter to the previous tale—no Holy Grail that their lives are background, no explanations, no irreparably altered. details to ill in the blanks. What a refreshing twist to a Readers who have not read Book historical iction nearly as old as Mignon du Blois is in a horrible One are going to be completely time! So many varying legends of ix! After leeing the French lost. While it is a fascinating and King Arthur and his Knights of the Revolution, her father, a brilliant interesting plot, and Judith and Round Table abound that one artist, has made a life out of Simon are wonderful characters, would be hard put to come up selling his forgeries of famous anyone reading this irst will most with a fresh perspective to share. works in London. The ruse is on likely be very annoyed at it being Author Nicole Evelina not only the brink of collapse, however, called a book—even clifhangers spins a refreshing new thread told when Mignon catches a thief have a beginning, middle, and from Guinevere’s POV, she trying to steal one of the forged end. What there is of the tale is weaves an entire tapestry rich in paintings. Hoping to avert amazing. color, depth, and scope. From the disaster, she makes a deal with Julie York very irst page, one is swept away the thief: steal a sculpture before the world renowned art critic, into the days of old where times were brutal, the people were Rory Cathcart, can examine it and rooted in the earth and she won’t press charges. superstition ran rampant. The Rory is in a bind! He was sure the only drawbacks in this house was empty when he broke wonderfully penned tale are a in to steal a painting he was sure timeline that occasionally was forged. But, when Mignon leapfrogs years and a few minor catches him, he has to think editing errors. There are also quickly. Now he is Rory Andrews some instances of violence - art thief, not Rory Cathcart - art (including rape) inherent in those critic! How will he ever pull off times that may disturb some steeling the very statue he is set readers. With larger than life to examine? Worse still, how will Camelot’s Queen, characters, a gamut of emotions, he keep his heart out of it and Guinevere’s Tale, #2 mystical forces and hate-worthy send the forgers to prison, when Nicole Evelina villains this is historical fantasy at all he wants is to save the its inest! desperately kind woman and her Carol Conley nefarious father? If a light, fun romp through the Georgian art-world of London Guinevere and Arthur each had sounds like fun, this novella is the other plans for their lives; one perfect answer! The set-up is where their hearts belonged to believable and the plot is others, but when Arthur extremely entertaining even if the

75 Historical execution of it is a bit over-the- not only his liege’s widow but a over, however, and Saffron is an top at times. The main characters woman he has trouble resisting? adult working in the war ofice to enjoy a lively banter and the Soon, however, the awkwardness bring the bodies of those fallen secondary characters are just as gives way to a bond and a passion home to their families. enjoyable. There are some they have never felt before. But, Ezekiel Boone was only thirteen, questions as to historical accuracy with evil in their midst, Kaspien too young to enlist, when he irst but if that does not bother, this and Maedlayne will need courage followed his three brothers into really is a short, fun escape that beyond their comprehension to war and much too young to watch keeps one giggling. save their lives and their love. them all die. But he did. And Ruth Lynn Ritter What a unique and amazing story! without the help of a beautiful Ms. Le Veque has taken a very girl, it may have been the end of realistic situation that was not his life, as well. Now, years later, unheard of in an age before he must help recover his antibiotics and turned it into one brothers' bodies. When he also of the best romances available! inds the girl he has never While the subject matter may forgotten, however, he vows to make some uncomfortable, it is hold on to the one person he not overly graphic in anyway. knows he can’t live without. Rather, it is a means to further the In this story of love amidst plot and establish an unbreakable tragedy, Ms. Lower deftly bond in the characters. While uncovers the human ache of war some of the situational conlicts and its aftermath. Historical were a little over the top, this events weave in and out of Queen of Lost Stars truly is a very creative and Saffron and Ezekiel’s story subtly Kathryn Le Veque completely enthralling dip into while profoundly educating medieval romance! readers. The story itself, Ruth Lynn Ritter however, stays surface-only with lots of page time taken up with the couple’s yearning. While MEDIEVAL: Madelayne Gray necessary, the extent in this d'Ebreux is devastated. After a instance slows the overall rhythm hard labor, her child is born dead. down considerably. The same While still reeling from the news, sentiments said in fewer words she also learns that her husband would have had a more profound has been killed in what was impact. It is a very sweet story, supposed to be a small skirmish. though, with the romance His commander also received a progressing at a believable rate, near fatal stomach wound. In a allowing love to form before the last ditch attempt to save his life, steam rises. It’s gritty history the doctor begs Madelayne to do with a very sweet touch. the only thing that might save him The Forgotten Debutante Ruth Lynn Ritter - give him the life-nourishing milk Becky Lower that was meant for her babe. Horriied at the inappropriateness but not wanting another death on her hands, Madelayne agrees. Fifteen-year-old Saffron After hovering near death, Fitzpatrick is living amidst the Kaspien inally regains horrors of the civil war. Unable to consciousness only to discover even leave her home at times, she the method used in his jumps at the chance for adventure miraculous recovery. But, how when she discovers a young can he continue when the lady is soldier in hiding. Now the war is

76 Historical goes against any common sense This is a sweet western chock full and leaves the reader questioning of adventure! While slated as a their believability. For example, second installment, it is deinitely why would Nelle insist the man a stand-alone. Ellie is portrayed she loves marry another woman as an innocent girl who is very whom he doesn’t love and whose well read and inquisitive to the secrets Nelle knows will point of being slightly absurd, but absolutely destroy him? Even so, bends so willingly to Jake’s the story is extremely engaging attention. Jake is a walking and the beautiful writing style contradiction, leaving readers overcome any laws and makes it wondering what his true Love is Come (Power of the well worth the read! personality is. However, there are copyediting issues that can be Matchmaker) Ruth Lynn Ritter corrected. There are several Heather B. Moore instances of verbs repeated within the same sentence, as well as typographical errors and insertion of pronouns immediately following character’s Nelle Thompson grew up a proper names. Great care has pampered, only child of New York been taken in creating the City aristocrats - until the night similarities with another well- her parents were killed in a known historic sociopath. terrible accident. With a year to Readers may ind the ending go before she can claim her trust, slightly rushed and not quiet she must live with her aunt’s inished, but Ellie’s happily-ever- Wilder Hearts: A Western family in the country. Treated as after is a resounding plus. a burden and forced to pay for Hearts Novel (Book 2) Jordyn Teel even the bites she eats, Nelle Lilly Gayle works to make sense of her new life. The one person who shows kindness and comforts her is the one person she can never have - her cousin’s iancé! WESTERN: Ellie Wilder is Mathew Janson never felt any determined to reunite her family. particular love for his iancé but Taking a chance, she whisks her he needs a wife and his marriage sister along with her to ind their will make his ailing mother father in the far reaches of happy. That is reason enough - developing Texas during 1886. until he meets Nelle. Suddenly When they land in Austin, they there is a reason to smile, to live meet a handsome loner who The Fearless Highlander and to really love. But, life doesn’t bears a striking resemblance to a (Highland Defender #1) always allow for such things and character from a dime-store when circumstances turn, suspense novel Ellie keeps with Amy Jarecki Mathew is faced with losing his her about Billy the Kid. Budding great love or ighting for what she journalist Ellie decides to is not sure she can give. investigate the mysterious Jake “Love is Come” is a beautifully Harper, or is he Jake Markham, written, engaging and poignant aka Jake the Snake. Can she igure Come along on the adventures of story, with a depth that is subtly out what to write as Jake, an Charlotte Hill, the prim daughter woven yet achingly real. As the undercover Texas Ranger, trying of Colonel Hill, commander at story continues, however, the to solve a string of ghastly Fort Hill. Upon meeting an ill weakness of Nelle’s character and murders? Can he protect Ellie highlander in the surgery, where the choices she repeatedly makes from the killer on the loose? she assists army physician, Dr.

77 78 Historical Munro, she discovers what it offers its own unique voice, means to truly feel passion. Her frolicking story, and fulilling end. heart is sent alutter upon seeing Originality, plot, pacing, and the massive man shackled to the character development all cot, and soon all reason leaves her contribute to stories that will head. Hugh MacIain MacDonald is prompt readers to seek out a proud man and a strong one. His additional works from these three clan and family are everything to talented ladies. This analogy is him and he ights iercely to get just what readers are seeking— back to them after being tortured three wonderful stories coupled by the King’s army. Alas, while with the opportunity to discover within the conines of the fort he A Midwinter Ball new authors and a new list of also comes into contact with a books to add to the TBR pile! Heidi Ashworth, Annette Lyon, young lady who will forever Soia St. Angeles change his heart. Michele Paige Holmes "The Fearless Highlander" is a true adventure of the greatest kind that brings together intrigue, bravado, and love in their purest forms! Every character, from the “Much Ado About Dancing” – With skeevy surgeon to the brave clan a reputation for an inordinate members ighting for survival, is amount of marriage deftly described, bringing them to announcements as its result, the life on the page. The love story is party at Dance Hall is the most pure and beautiful, while facing anticipated event of the year. For adversity from every direction. In Miss Analisa Lloyd-Jones this may addition, the attention to detail by be her last defense against Hearts Alame the author in bringing a true story conirmed spinsterhood. to life in a ictional recounting is Nancy Morse, Anna Markland, superb. The reader is drawn into “Sweeter Than Any Dream” – every situation and emotion, truly Oppression from her mother and Jill Hughey, Catherine Kean aunt weigh heavily upon Olivia. investing themselves into a story ANTHOLOGY: of passion and perseverance. Top Retreating to a daydream that notch, not to be missed, this is a includes the companionship of an marvelous beginning to a series unfocused dream man is her only that begs to be read, and read reprieve. But, when this dream again. man materializes in the lesh, Olivia realizes only she can truly “Hearts Alame” is a compilation Penelope Anne Bartotto save herself. by four accomplished authors, each of whom brings something “An Invitation to Dance” – Wishes unique to the set. The books are on falling leaves, buttons centered on a bloodstone that is scandalously left undone, and a engraved with the passage, mouth that lets loose with "Whoever inherits the stone will whatever comes to her mind. It be consumed by ire". Jilly Hughey comes as a shock to Mr. Darling. begins the compilation with With no one to blame but himself, “Rowan’s Legacy” set in Paris, 861 his life is horribly limited and AD. “Passion’s Fire” by Anna leaves him detached from society. Markland is second in the book Perhaps someone like Ella is and is set in England, 1175 AD. “A exactly what he needs. Legendary Love” by Catherine “A Midwinter Ball” is nothing less Kean is up next and her story is than masterful and lovely! set in Northern England, 1204 AD. Though presented in an “Love Remembers” by Nancy anthology, each of these books

79 Historical Morse is the inal book and is set forced upon him he realizes he in Africa, 1922. needs a wife to help him in his All four authors have interesting new role. His irst proposal to writing styles. They each have Lady Charity is disregarded, but their separate stories with Robin does not give up on his distinctive characters and exciting pursuit. Will his willingness pay settings, but they are all able to off or will he be left holding the integrate a single theme that proverbial bag? readers will look forward to. “The Seduction of Lady Charity,” Readers will want to ind out is a tale fraught with insecurities, where the elusive stone will turn friendship, hopes, dreams and up in the next story. Although the quiet love. Maggi Andersen has Her Highland Rogue (Wild authors are talented, readers may created a wonderfully intriguing Highland Guardian #1) ind themselves bogged down cast of characters. They are Violetta Rand with numerous descriptions and interesting, they have real depth, ind that some of the characters and they are likable as well as are just not believable. Most will relatable. Ms. Andersen is creative probably overlook these slight and has a gift with the written laws and will enthusiastically word. She is able to make her enjoy the stories the way they are. words jump from the pages of her Aileana has always been an Readers of historical romances books and come to life right outsider among the people of the will appreciate these books and before her readers’ eyes. Although Clan MacRae. Having been found are likely to search out these a new spin on an old tale, there at the gates of the MacRae keep authors to see what else they are enough twists and turns to when she was ten years old and have written. make it distinctive. As the fourth without any memory of where she came from, she is taunted and Mary-Nancy Smith book in the Baxendale Sisters series, “The Seduction of Lady ridiculed. When Broc, one of the Charity,” can stand alone but laird's captains makes untoward readers might ind themselves advances, she lees the keep and returning to the irst book of the inds herself in the cave of a seer. series just to see what they might Errol MacRae is tasked to ind and have missed from Ms. Andersen’s bring Aileana home. When he original stories. inds her in the seer's cave, something changes. Aileana is not Mary-Nancy Smith anymore the young girl who followed him wherever he went or who served him with trenchers of food and ale. She is now a beauty and Errol’s heart suddenly stands up and takes notice. The Seduction of Lady Charity: The Baxendale Set in the Scottish Highlands, the Sisters Book Four love between the two protagonists is as sweeping as the Maggi Andersen land. The author intersperses the dialogue with dry, bawdy wit among the male characters adding to the color and sense of place. One is likely to be Charity Baxendale just wants to transported into the setting as paint. She is not concerned about though they were jumping inside marriage because she afraid she the pages of the book and will be forced to give up her experiencing what it was like to dream of painting portraits. live in time where women were Robin, Lord Stanberry does not treated like chattel but yet, where want to be a Duke, but when it is

80 Historical love conquered all. There is also a threaten to keep them apart, will heart to bloom. From unfortunate twist in the tale that keeps one they be able to overcome the muddy accidents to a war of guessing which brings this obstacles that stand in their way words that turns to admiration romance to a inal and satisfying to happiness? and desire, followed by the conclusion. “Damsel of the Hawk” is a intrigue of resistance mellowing Many readers of highland historical romance with a into burning hearts, these three romances will deinitely give this different twist. Although the plot stories will land in a readers book a revered place in their has been tried before, the author favorite book pile. bookshelves for this is a story one creates a new spin on a classic “Spring in Hyde Park” represents will enjoy again, and again, and tale. Ms. Schartz’s characters are the inest storytelling. With wit, again. interesting and have unique colorful dialogue, interesting and MP Ceja characteristics. The attachment to heart-palpitating characters, it is the characters’ respective pets is a collection that can be read again heartwarming but readers might and again. Each of the three ind that the animals are more stories is unique in their approach important than some of the to a happily-ever-after. The characters. “Damsel of the Hawk” landscape is written with as much is a continuation of a seven-book care as the evolving emotions of series. It can be read as a the heroes and heroines. There is standalone but readers might ind a feeling of complete satisfaction it beneicial to read the series in when the simple but artistically order. Ms. Schartz has a gift that written stories unveil themselves. will have readers asking for more The unattainable bachelors come and will have them intrigued by to their senses and the lovely the idea of the other books in the ladies don’t always make it easy Damsel of the Hawk (Curse series. on them. The author’s voices are of the Lost Isle Book 7) Mary-Nancy Smith quite unique, yet the three stories complement one another. Author Vijaya Schartz experience shows with the low and development of each plot. Readers will be pleasantly surprised by the unexpected turns in each tale. All three Meliora, the legendary damsel of heroines are likable and have Hawk Castle, has been blessed by their individual clever and the Goddess with the magical intelligent way of dealing with the ability to heal and offer gold to handsome man who makes her the valiant knights that come to heart lutter. Hawk Castle with good intentions. This collection of graceful She has committed herself to romance stories comes with a remain a virgin so that she can Spring in Hyde Park “satisfaction guaranteed” stamp continue to serve the Goddess. (Anthology) of approval! But her commitment begins to Sloane Austen waver when Spartak, a Kipchak Jennifer Moore, G.G. Vandagriff, warrior arrives on her doorstep Nichole Van wounded and close to death. Meliora deies her promise and uses her magic to heal the wounded warrior. When Spartak is healed, he falls in love with Meliora and is determined to win Three lovely regency stories: “A her heart and make her his Happy Accident”, “Disdainful regardless of the consequences. Duke” and “An Invisible Heiress”, Although family and enemies are set in the spring and bring the

81 82 Historical wordy, which might cause the maintains she loves her inn, but reader to lose focus; however, as instead of returning the jewels, the pages are turned, one is she allows Edmund to toss her rewarded with an entertaining into a carriage and whisk her read illed with sorrow, joy, away to London. Questions arise courage, adventure and love. as to his intentions, and why he’s Historical as well as romance fans stolen the jewels, and these are will ind this pleasing novel never explained. This is the irst appealing and well worth their book in a series, but too many time. plot points are left hanging at the Janna Shay end. The hero and heroine are Far West: The Diary of charismatic, and the settings are Eleanor Higgins placed nicely throughout the Linell Jeppsen story, but it’s not very clear as to what time period the tale occurs. The dialogue is written for the most part as contemporary, not Victorian, but the sizzle between Edmund and Jesse ignites and WESTERN/ACTION ADVENTURE: keeps the pages turning. Sixteen year-old Nel Higgins is the daughter of an abusive and Sloane Austen demented Lutheran minister. Since her mother’s early demise, Nel and her sister Annie’s survival is dependent on their escape from Jewel of Winter their father’s maniacal grasp. Kirsten S. Blacketer When an unexpected situation results in the premature death of her father, Nel secures passage on the Far West riverboat for her and Annie in hopes of starting a new VICTORIAN: Jess is a widow life. She soon inds her path running a country inn with the veering towards Fort Abraham help of her sister when a trio of Lincoln and the Battle of Little Big noblemen trots in the door Rebel Warrior Horn. evading a search party. She soon This historical romance, which learns the handsome Lord is a Regan Walker takes place in 1876, is written thief. Jess is forced into entirely in the irst person in pretending to be his wife, and gets journal style. Spanning a six- even by stealing from the month time frame, this tale arrogant gentleman thief. When relates the inner thoughts and she won’t reveal the hiding place It is 1072. Steinar of Talisand feelings of the heroine, as well as of the bounty, Jess is taken lees to Scotland after he is her life experiences as she hostage and whisked away to wounded in battle and William struggles to secure a safe and London by Edmund. Treated like the Conqueror steals his family’s happy future for herself and her a lady, she’s wooed by his courtly land and gives it to one of his sister. Although starting out manners and ignores his rough loyal knights. He becomes the slowly as the necessary edges. It’s all new and exciting to scribe of King Malcolm of background is introduced, this Jess until Edmund desires her Scotland while at the same time interesting and informative tale body as well as her presence. regaining his strength and mixes historical facts with “Jewel of Winter” opens with a prowess with the sword in secret. ictional romance to form an hook and interesting characters. Catriona of the Vale of Leven joins intriguing tale that takes place on The irst doorway which vaults King Malcolm’s court as one of the American frontier. The pacing Jess into the plot is weak and Queen Margaret’s ladies-in- is slow and the details are a little doesn’t really compute. She waiting after she, too, has to lee

83 Historical her home after it was pillaged by friend in order to persuade him to cupboards, she goes to a the Northmen after her parents' let her live in his household. But burlesque theater for a job and murder. While at court Catriona she’s only just begun her journey attracts the eye of Don Vincent catches Steinar’s eye, however, when a band of highwaymen Giovanni. Through a complicated she is promised to another. When attack her, and she narrowly gets turn of events, Evelyn must do as Catriona’s iancé drops her, the saved by Raynor Le Roux, a knight the mob boss wants in order to humiliation and heartbreak she of the realm. save her brother, but when her experiences is complete. Steinar is Beatrice lies to her savior, telling life is threatened, she’ll turn to the given the chance to press his suit, him she’s engaged and on her way one man she shouldn’t - Max but what can he give Catriona to her soon-to-be husband’s Catalano, the second-in- when he has nothing to give other castle. Raynor takes Beatrice to command. Can Max protect her in than himself? his own home, Ashcroft, which a world where no one is as they The author’s style of writing has fallen into disrepair. Raynor is seem? reminds one of the swashbuckling determined to restore his castle The author does a tremendous job movies with iconic stars on the before he escorts Beatrice back to of recreating the aftermath of silver screen. The way the story is the man he believes her to be Black Tuesday with nearly lyrical woven with history is so seamless engaged to, but all the while, he descriptions of New York, and the that one is tempted to think that grows more and more attracted to stark contrast between the haves Catriona and Steinar were indeed her. Beatrice’s attractions for and have-nots. Evelyn goes from a real people living during that Raynor grow as well, but her naı̈ve young woman who only has time. The author’s description of white lie may cost her everything. a hovel to call her own, to the battle scenes makes one feel Although “Marked by Honor” is someone who has seen too much as though they were there, the the second book in a series, it can the moment she moves into a mob tension and excitement building effortlessly be read as a stand- boss’s mansion. She’s got a lot of and exploding the moment the alone. With a touch of mystery moxie, however, and her archers let their arrows rain on and suspense, this is primarily a character is easy to relate to as enemy territory. A reader will be romance story. Raynor is she’s thrown into circumstances invested in the story that is wonderfully likable and easy to beyond her control. The story deinitely a good read. relate to, but watching him sparkles with simmering MP Ceja struggle with his honor is attraction between Max and frustrating when Beatrice could Evelyn as he tries to protect her just tell him the truth. This leave's from the life they are both mired Beatrice's character rather in. Every reader will be turning infuriating because of continued pages in anticipation to see if they refusal to tell him the truth. While can survive the danger that the story starts off slowly, it does surrounds them on all sides. The pick up until there’s a lot of only drawback was the amount of suspense toward the end that editing errors, especially more than makes up for for the homonyms, but the author’s wait! ability to spin a compelling story is deinitely showcased here. Majanka Verstraete Kate Campbell

Marked by Honor As The Liquor Flows Lauren Linwood Angela Christina Archer

After losing both her mother and Evelyn Ford is desperately trying grandfather on the same day, to survive after the stock market Lady Beatrice Bordel is forced to crash and Great Depression that visit her grandfather’s closest follows. With no more food in the

84 85 Contemporary day assumptions, and highlighted together and ind they are made the power of laudanum addiction for one another. and its fallout during the 19th “Snare” is an intriguing story that century. Simon and Cori’s brings two mismatched people romance, however, was lost in the together and makes it work. Sid is many other elements the author a feisty woman who knows her was trying to combine. Overall, mind and is conident on the the reader will root for them to outside, insecure on the inside. triumph over the forces keeping Xavier is "what you see is what them apart and enjoy the ending. you get". He is a real character This author has obvious talent who is easy to read and easy to The Girl in the Painting and with a strong and focused love. What ruins the story is the storyline, her potential is just Kirsty Ferry plethora of missing words that waiting to shine through. interrupt the low of the story, as Kate Campbell well as the number of curse words that are liberally sprinkled throughout the novel. Even though the chapters labeled who Cori Keeling is drawn to is speaking, it is still dificult to everything pre-Raphaelite and tell who is speaking because the when she moves to London, she characters voices are so much visits the Tate gallery as often as alike. An interesting story, with possible to look at her favorite interesting material - it was fun painting, Ophelia, by Millais. getting to meet both Sid and Another artist named Simon Xavier. Daniels, who happens to work at Belinda Wilson the gallery, notices Cori and they quickly form a connection. Before their romance gets far, however, Snare Southern Comfort (Hot Cori starts experiencing strange Southern Nights #2) voices and ghostly visitations. Is (A Falling Stars Novel #3) she going mad, obsessed over the Sadie Grubor Amie Louellen pre-Raphaelite period, or has the woman in the Ophelia painting come back to haunt Cori until her story is inally revealed? There is so much going on in this Sid is a regular entrepreneur and Newland is a freelance writer, book—contemporary romance, has had much success with her looking for the next story to historical mystery/romance, drug latest endeavor, Toy BoXXX TM. jumpstart his career. Bitty is a addiction, and paranormal aspects The only problem is with her Southern lady with a ghost story from several points of view. The boyfriend and partner, Paul. He’s to tell. Natalie is her niece who author is amazing at setting cheating on her and she just refuses to believe in the ghost and descriptions, especially skilled in wants the jerk out of her life. She’s is trying to send Newland back to historical romance, and the reader looking at selling the business as a Chicago where he belongs. Natalie feels fully immersed in British last resort to get out of the is “almost engaged” to Gerald, but culture. Unfortunately, there are a partnership. Xavier is the ex- why is she so attracted to lot of head-hopping and time- drummer for a rock band and he Newland? It breaks her heart jumps, that, combined with the has suffered major losses. He when she thinks of him going sheer number of story elements, hasn’t found love since his divorce home and never seeing him again. makes it dificult to keep the and doesn’t realize how that has Why is Gerald so set on sending narrative running smoothly. The affected his life. In a scheduling Bitty to a “home”? Natalie is trying historical romance was snafu, Sid and Xavier end up her best to keep everyone in line, compelling, especially when spending time in his lodge but her heart isn’t listening. juxtaposed against the modern-

86 Contemporary This is a stupendously written her daughter home, Jason is taken over the park to keep it in book with some of the most waiting. Can they ind their way his family. He agrees to take Jaine eccentric characters this reviewer back to each other or is it too late? on, but there’s one condition: she has come across in ages! It opens Emily and Jason are childhood has to play Cinderella at the park with Bitty, who swears a ghost sweethearts that everyone for the summer. Jaine is reluctant keeps turning on the stove and expected to marry and settle at irst, but soon begins to love the opening the refrigerator and adds down. They live in a charming make-believe role. Reality crashes Aubie, Natalie’s sixteen year-old small town that is easy to down, however, when she starts brother, who is mayor of the quiet visualize and the author writes to fall for out-of-reach Dylan, her burg. There is also intrigue and the secondary characters in a way high school nemesis is now her mystery as to why the confederate that adds a realistic tone to this boss, and her bridezilla sister has soldier only appears one day a romance. Jason is a wonderful her on speed-dial for every month. While the main characters hero, steady and reassuring even wedding problem. Can Jaine get are endearing, the secondary when Emily abruptly cuts him out her happily-ever-after? characters are lat with stilted of her life and refuses to let him This book will pull you into the dialogue. The particular one in explain anything for two long world of Storybook Valley and mind is Gerald, Natalie’s iancé. years. His interactions with his take you on a roller-coaster ride There are several plot twists so little girl were scene-stealers! of romance with a little bit of the reader is kept on their toes. Unfortunately, Emily’s lack of intrigue and a lot of fun twists and Natalie’s once well-ordered dull character development was turns! Jaine is a heroine that will life is thrown into chaos in this glaring and made it dificult for have you rooting for her to get her hilarious story of love, ghosts, and the reader to identify with her. prince. At times she seems a little conspiracy. However, the author does a too accepting of whatever life Belinda Wilson wonderful job in writing the dishes out, but in spite of that, her importance of relationships character has depth and between blended and extended dimension and is easy to love. The families, and also points out that setting of the amusement park is even under the best intricate and well-done, and circumstances, being a family makes it seem as if the reader is takes a lot of work. The villain was getting a behind-the-scenes peek. one-dimensional, yet still The love story was illed with propelled the story forward and push/pull and witty banter, but ended with the comeuppance they when combined with a sigh- deserved. With an exciting worthy hero, it’s enough to make conclusion that changed the any woman swoon. This is the characters’ perspective on life and irst book in the Storybook Valley love, readers will enjoy the series and, with enchanting Emily’s Choice happily-ever-after. characters like these, readers will be anxious for more! Heather McCoubrey Kate Campbell Kate Campbell Fooling Around With Cinderella

Emily Camancho has been in love Stacy Juba with Jason Vaughn her entire life. On the eve of their wedding, all her dreams are about to come true, until she inds her iancé in the arms of her cousin. Pregnant CHICK-LIT: Jaine Andersen puts and inconsolable, she runs away, herself out there professionally by determined never to let Jason into pitching her marketing services to her heart again. But when a Storybook Valley amusement terrible accident brings her and park. Dylan Callahan has just

87 Contemporary romance and the tug of war on life that it is. At times, however, Dixie’s part is a bit unrealistic yet there was so much information it will keep readers engrossed. Ms. started to read like a medical White has a knack for moving the brochure that takes the reader out story along and keeping the low of the story. The romance at a steady pace. Subplots are a bit between Nikki and Ram had some heavy and get a bit lost, with most wonderful moments as they tried of the focus on the main to keep this little family together. characters and their daily Unfortunately, other moments fell adventures. lat since her husband hadn’t been Viola Robins dead long and his suicide is Home with My Heart (A mostly glossed over in favor of Southland Romance ~ The dealing with her son’s illness. The Prequel (Southland author does well in describing the Romances) NFL world and readers will love the character development in Ram Meda White as a true hero when he begins to focus on what truly matters most. This heartfelt story is a tear-jerker for sure, and yet has a message of hope that resonates as well as Dixie Johnson from Georgia is a entertains. widow with three young Kate Campbell daughters, working two jobs and doing her best to pay off her Fill the Stadium husband's bookie. A night out K.M. Daughters with her sister may be just what she needs to drown her sorrows. While at the bar she sees a man with a great smile and she is out to have a good time. Unbeknownst to Dixie, Big Dan is there to meet WOMEN'S FICTION: Nikki with her about her qualiications Lambert is left alone when her and help him with a new business husband commits suicide rather venture. Will her night out and than deal with their son’s terminal acting like a loozy end her chance illness. She’s trying to cope, but for a leg up? Will Big Dan be able even her best efforts aren’t All I Ever Wanted (Summer to let go of the ghost of a wife and enough to make her son’s last Love Novels Book 1) open his heart and home to a new wishes come true. Ramsey opportunity of love and family life Delaney, a football superstar, runs Katrina Mills for his three boys? a community sports club and takes an interest in Nikki and both This Southern charmer is a fun, of her sons. His generosity and steamy and suspenseful read. thoughtfulness toward them soon There is a bit of mystery around turns to wanting to be more than every corner and the amusing Kinsley is forced to go home a friend to Nikki. Can he have the southern dialogue is entertaining. following her father’s death. Her love of a family and save the The story is done true to its time hometown is riddled with bad dreams of a dying little boy? of 1984 and done well. The memories and now she has to sort paranormal pieces are subtle and This book deals with several through the cryptic ones left limited and are woven into the tangled emotional issues— behind - the ones her family plot nicely. The kids steal the suicide, terminal illness, and the refuses to discuss. Former soldier show and one can’t help but think devastation they leave behind. Bastian wants nothing more than of a 70’s TV show that parallels The author shines a light on an a quiet life in Staunton. His the family dynamic. The quick illness called ALD, and the thief of shooting course is proving

88 89 Contemporary popular with the local women learns he can be a huge asset to who appear to want to learn more Emily Kate Beaudreax, who than how to shoot a gun. When inherited her Paw Paw’s the one woman he can't forget restaurant and is now losing her comes into his store to sell an chef. Conner is in a major bind antique gun, Bastian decides that and hopes he can make a few maybe he can hold off on the quiet bucks and keep moving to get life for the moment to get the home and away from the men that woman he wants. seem to be catching up to him at The relationship and dialogue every turn. between the main characters in “Delicious Deception” starts out this book is absolutely fantastic! with action-packed suspense. The Stockholm Diaries, Melanie Kinsley is sassy and Bastian gives circumstances aren’t quite clear (Stockholm Diaries #3) as good as he gets. The story until the end but the low and plot Rebecca Hunter develops well with the passion of this book will keep readers between Kinsley and Bastian glued until the inish. The hero becoming more intense. There is and heroine seem like a limsy it also the mystery that Kinsley’s that may be short lived and burn family seems to be keeping from out fast, but the story keeps her which progresses well twisting and turning and readers Melanie is a young American throughout. Katrina Mills has will be cheering them on in hopes biographer on a mission to ind written a fantastic book with good they can keep the steamy the one thing that has eluded her description. Bastian is the typical romance going strong. The her entire life: why did her father man that every woman wants, but southern details and language leave? After over 20 years of radio he only has eyes for one woman. with detailed descriptions are fun silence, she receives word that her Kinsley just wants to get out of and create great visuals for father has passed away and left Staunton but it doesn’t quite go to readers to feel plunked down in her his cabin in the Stockholm plan. This book marks the the middle of the marshy south. archipelago. Armed with a book beginning of what looks to be a Witty banter and quick thinking advance for the biography she very good series! keep this tale fun and moving. intends to write on the elusive poet, Melanie heads to Sweden for Lynn-Alexandria McKendrick This book stands alone; however with this much entertainment, the summer. She quickly learns readers may need to read the that not everything is as it seems, Delicious Deception (Tough series! including her sexy neighbor Henrik. As the two work together Love Series #3) Viola Robins to translate her father's novels Tami Lund and uncover his past, will the truths they ind help bring them together or push them apart? Ms. Hunter hits it out of the park with this sweet and witty novel! Conner Rikeland, a Detroit chef Both Melanie and Henrik leap off from a very well known elite the page with ease and will come restaurant was not getting the to life right before the reader's acknowledgment or promotion to eyes. The main characters are Executive Chef like he felt he intelligent, funny, stubborn and deserved. He decides to interview wounded. Each interaction is with the restaurants of the river illed with equal parts attraction boat casino scene in Louisiana. and resistance, causing a slow That’s where trouble inds him build to a satisfying climax. This and he cannot escape quickly novel is a tale of heartache, enough. He lands deep in a bayou longing and healing for all area and happens upon a involved. Ms. Hunter’s writing restaurant where he quickly style and descriptive imagery says

90 Contemporary "sit and stay while", the reader he was doing more than cooking Kimberly has grown up and is a will not be able to put this one for them. The heat and passion star simply shining in the down! between these two characters is afterglow of a successful sequel. Amelia Kitch immense and incredibly sexy and The story of her leap from blogger the book is a true page turner to new author - which catapults with good dialogue, if a little her to a new level of repetitive at times. Susan Jean sophistication while allowing her Ricci has written a very racy to shed her insecure high school series that shows great promise attitude and baggage - reminds and will have readers fanning the reader that chick-lit is in fact themselves with their e-reader. not dead but alive and well. There Lynn-Alexandria McKendrick are moments of friendship drama that are reminiscent of the previous book, however it is not enough to steer the reader off the track of the overall entertainment and humor of the new story. Her sparkly and endearing Chaos in the Kitchen personality blazes through while (My Sexy Chef, #2) Nicholas has turned into a compelling boyfriend with sex Susan Jean Ricci appeal and tenderness. An overall gratifying read with honesty and light-hearted fun! Margaret Faria Novelista Girl As the second installment of their sexy story opens, Mark Bouchard Meredith Schorr and Malibu O’Hare’s relationship is heating up. They can’t keep their hands off each other. As they venture further into their relationship, a wave of CHICK-LIT/ROMANTIC COMEDY: unexpected situations puts their Kimberly Long's profession as a partnership to the test. Facing the legal secretary is about to change challenges every normal couple when she writes her irst face is dificult enough, add in the manuscript and is ready to take extra stress and it’s a recipe for on the literary world. Alongside chaos. Can they stay together and her dream of being an author, she Gone Wild beat the odds when life appears to runs a successful book blog which have other plans? fuels her passion with the support Dakota Madison The sequel to “My Sexy Chef”, this from her lawyer book is as erotic as the irst. Story boyfriend, Nicholas Strong. When development was good; however it becomes dificult to secure a there was a noticeable difference publishing contract and Nicholas between the low of this book has career ambitions of his own, ROMANTIC COMEDY: After a compared to the irst which was a they begin to drift further fender bender leads to being little disappointing. Character apart. Adding insult to injury, her sentenced to thirty days' development on the other hand long-time high school nemesis is community service work with was excellent as the two main currently a successful author, troubled teens at a wilderness characters develop further into which leaves Kimberly feeling like camp, Bly Daniels isn’t convinced their relationship. Bouchard is a failure and wondering if any of that she shouldn't have taken the one of those characters that will her dreams are meant to come 15 months of jail time instead. Her make the reader drool and wish true after all. idea of roughing it is being forced

91 Contemporary to interact in social situations character shows many sides to instead of reading quietly at their personality. Elizabeth is home. When she meets the man in contradictory in the most charge of the wilderness program, wonderful way; she’s adorably she feels like she has died and klutzy and emotionally guarded gone to hell. He’s the antithesis of but assertive and commanding at everything she’s familiar with; the same time. Thought provoking brawny, gruff, and unreined. To and heartfelt, this tale tugs at the make matters worse, she inds heartstrings and immerses the herself inexplicably drawn to him. reader in a world they'll be While she may feel completely reluctant to leave. Settle in with a unprepared to tackle the next 30 Cookie Therapy (Northwest hot cup of tea and a comfy chair, days, Bly will soon learn that Suburbs Book 4) because this is the kind of book there is no “try,” there is only “do.” one could get lost in! Karla Brandenburg Written for the over-40 crowd, Chantel Hardge “Gone Wild” is a sweet and touching tale that has a slow and understated build towards a Return to Glebe Point (Glebe relationship. Bly Daniels is the Point Series) When she was growing up, epitome of book-smart with little Patricia Paris common sense. Readers may Elizabeth Lambert believed initially have a hard time Hoffman Grove to be her safe connecting to her cold and haven. Spending one month every standofish manner. On the other summer tending the family hand Turner's homespun bookstore and baking cookies colloquialisms oftentimes seem with her aunt gave Elizabeth After leaving Glebe Point, overused which is at odds with refuge from her neglectful Charlene Morrison returns to Bly’s succinct and droll way of parents. After an unimaginable rebuild her life after an abusive speaking. However, by the end of tragedy leaves her traumatized relationship left her a shell of the the book Bly’s metamorphosis and suffering the side effects of woman she once was. She opens a into someone who is capable of PTSD, Elizabeth jumps at the cupcake shop in an effort to openness and love is quite chance to leave Texas and return rebuild her life. She doesn’t bank beautiful. Witty, self-deprecating to Hoffman Grove to manage her on sexy estate agent Cooper and completely naive to the ways aunt’s bookstore. When a series of Barone owning the business next of the world, her time at the camp clumsy mishaps puts her face to door to her. Whenever they see brings about a self awareness that face with the delectable one another, they can barely keep reminds her that life is more than paramedic/ireighter Matthew their hands to themselves. Cooper books; it's meant to be lived. Billings, Elizabeth is left feeling can see that Charlie has issues, but Chantel Hardge more than just grateful. Knowing despite his best efforts, he can’t that life is short, she propositions keep away from her. When their Matt with a one night stand. But relationship deepens, Charlie can will one night be enough to satisfy see a little light on the horizon. her craving? Cookies may be her Her happiness is short lived when vice... but Matthew Billings is her past comes back to haunt her. quickly becoming her addiction. “Return to Glebe Point” is one of those books to curl up and read in “Cookie Therapy” is a story of front of a warm ire or when love, courage, and the friends that sitting in the sunshine on become family. Fraught with vacation. There is immediate emotion, but with comedic sympathy for Charlie as she tries moments that in no way detract to put her life together, coupled from the overall serious tone of with the excitement in her the book, Ms. Brandenburg offers meetings with Cooper. Most of the a realistic portrayal of PTSD. story development moves along at Complex and multifaceted, each

92 93 Contemporary a comfortable pace, making it a fall for one another, Peder’s bad was 16, and wants to share those relaxing and enjoyable read - boy past quickly comes calling. letters with the right person. although there are times when it Will Peder resort to his former Having been hurt, she’s wary of could have moved a little quicker. ways for Amy’s sake? men. Alex is a professor at the The main characters are opposites “Her Dollmaker's Desire" is university which hires Annabeth’s of one another. Charlie is trying to loosely based on a fairy tale by PR irm to boost enrollment by rebuild her life and comes across Hans Christian Anderson. Ms. proving an English degree can as somewhat shy; however, Wynn has penned a one-of-a-kind sustain a career. Things are about Cooper is the typical alpha male, story that starts out strong and to get very interesting. brash and strong. It makes for a builds to a fever pitch. While the Annabeth is a fairly typical very good story. The dialogue tale takes a darker turn as Amy contemporary, professional between the two is fun and lirty, begins to learn about Peder's female. She has oddball friends, a however Cooper is serious when sordid past, what results from good job she enjoys, a family with he needs to be. that startling revelation is an a few issues, an ex who just won’t Lynn-Alexandria McKendrick explosion of twists and turns that go away—everything readers will will leave one reeling. Although recognize in themselves and their the surprises are fast and furious, friends. She has laws we get to the ending seemed rushed. One listen to, as it’s written in irst may also feel the author could person, but nothing that pushes have devoted more time to her into unbelievability. Readers expound on the alluded-to see Alex through Annabeth’s eyes, magical aspects of the story. and upon occasion he seems However, if the reader is looking either too good to be true, or a for a book that has them on the player, something many single edge of their seat, as well as a plot women think about in never- that keeps one guessing, don't ending loops, but is written well look any further! enough to seem normal. There are Chantel Hardge a few missing pieces that, though Her Dollmaker’s Desire illed in eventually, readers may (Beyond Fairytales) feel cheated out of being a part of Gina Wynn —her virginity is a much talked- about plot point and all the discussion and action about it is skipped completely. The twists and turns are not shocking, but are painful, and do not come from Amy Nelson was one-half of a nowhere, a credit to the author for famous ballet duo, but a career- making this delightful tale feel as ending accident has forced her off warm and comfortable as an old of the London stage and home to friend. her father and wicked Julie York stepmother. Having suffered Been Searching For You tremendously at the hands of her extremely abusive dance partner Nicole Evelina Johnathon, Amy seeks to forge a new life outside of his inluence. When she takes a job as an entertainment reporter, Amy is tasked with interviewing the Annabeth is a professional in a PR world renowned doll maker, irm, having worked her way up Tobias, for an exhibition of his and proven herself, but at 33 she work. A chance meeting with longs to ind her soulmate. She’s Tobias’s grandson Peder causes been writing him a letter every the pair to strike up an unlikely year on her birthday since she friendship. But as they begin to

94 Contemporary about the day-to-day activities in not about mixed-up lovers but a the life of a woman is something young boy and an ex-lover. This all women already know, so the twist adds a deeper dimension to journey becomes very dry and the story that keeps the reader somewhat boring. Still, the interested and, of course, rooting writing in this women’s iction for the boy and his dad. Fox gives story is nice, smooth and very the reader a glimpse into life in easy to relax with. this rural town that is illed with Ruth Lynn Ritter quirky characters and closeness, but also the small-town pettiness that sometimes follows. Finally Fanny If Only in my Dreams Rose Mary Espinoza Bonnie Gardner (North Pole, Alaska #2) Noelle Fox

After twenty-ive years and a broken marriage, Franny McClain ROMANTIC COMEDY: Amelia is returning to live in her enjoyed being part of the hometown of Latitude, Alabama. volunteer group in North Pole, With all her dreams having turned Alaska that answered letters to to dust, she doesn't know what to Santa. It really was her only do with her life but knows she reason to stay there, since the needs to igure out who she is and iancée who moved her there had how to reinvent a life that means Harmony to Heartburn left her. Then she received a letter something. (Fortytude #3) from a young boy named John Deputy Tru Jeffcoat was Franny’s who wanted to get his Dad back Shelly Hickman high-school sweetheart but both together and happy. She answered left town all those years ago - he and encouraged him and signed it, to serve in the army, she to get Love Santa. That same day she married. Now he’s a deputy received a letter from her ex, John, sheriff in Latitude and Franny is wanting to reconcile. She wrote ROMANTIC COMEDY: Anna and moving home. Although she has him a scathing letter and told him Kiran have a blissful marriage and changed considerably, Tru soon all she wanted was for him to a colorful extended, blended discovers the beautiful girl he leave her the hell alone. family. Just when they think all is once loved hidden beneath the When she received a call from the going smoothly, havoc begins to woman she has become. He boy's anguished father she take over their lives. They ind would love to rekindle what they realized she had inadvertently out Anna's ex-husband, Luke's once had, but Franny has secrets mixed up the two letters and sent partner, has Parkinson’s and it is she is not willing to share. These them to the wrong John. To make shaking this relationship to the secrets must be overcome if she is up for her mistake she invites core. Even years after their ever to love - or really live - again. John and his dad to North Pole for separation Luke still depends on With a style and voice that wraps a vacation on her. Amelia is then Anna for emotional support. a reader up and comforts them, immersed in a whirlwind of Kiran's insecurities are starting to Ms. Gardner weaves a sweet tale fending off her old boyfriend and surface and he is losing patience of a woman devastated by her befriending young John and his with all the attention Anna is choices in life. The characters are dad. paying to Luke. Not only that but realistic with believable situations Anna's parents can't seem to Noelle Fox takes an old standby, that are relatable yet unique. The stand each other anymore and are the misunderstanding, and takes problem is that there just isn’t separating. Anna is exhausted the reader on a predictable and much conlict, no climax or even a and at her wits end with all the somewhat mundane route: in this distinct arc in the story. Reading case mixed up letters. This story is

95 Contemporary family drama. When will life who feels apart from his friends return to peace and harmony? and family. Longing for an Shelly Hickman takes every day ineffable something to make him family happenings and turns them feel whole, he is as surprised as into a delightful story! She has a anyone at his attraction for way with words that make the Mandy. Looking into her eyes, he story both poignant and funny. realizes that he must save her The reader will be enthralled with from the evil that is slowly this complicated close-knit group consuming her soul. of multi-generational, loving “Missing Pieces” is a book with family members. The author is staying power. The reader is able to show the reader through often torn between hope that Sugared (Misit Brides #4) the ups and downs of married life Michael will save Mandy and Jamie Farrell the insecurities that many people disgust at how he allows her to will recognize in themselves. Ms. treat him. The story is enigmatic Hickman weaves love, laughter and complex, raising many and hope into her story and questions in the reader’s mind makes this family one’s own. The along the way. Who is the true reader is left wanting to know victim in this relationship; Josh Kincaid and his family own what happens next to Anna and Michael or Mandy? Is the path the business, “Sweet Dreams Kiran as they travel down life's they embark on in their journey of Snack Cake World” but the road together. love the best thing for each of empire is very close to going them? under. His adopted parents saved Rose Mary Espinoza his life, took him off the streets This story is emotionally and gave him a home, love and uncomfortable and an often respect. He won’t let anything distasteful journey into the varied destroy their lives if he can help it. nature of relationships which After inheriting half of another includes a lot of sexual violence. bakery, and meeting the master Dificult to classify, the story baker, Kimmie Elias, he hatches a challenges the reader’s plan to get her recipes and help assumptions regarding the keep his family business aloat. synergy between abuser and victim. Although, it is well Kimmie KNOWS cake, it’s her life’s written, the story drags at times passion. Marilyn, her mother, as Mandy and Michael’s emotional known as the Queen General, gymnastics become almost too rules the bakery like a seasoned Missing Pieces much to bear. If the reader is drill sergeant, not to mention Kimmie’s life. Kimmie is a bit Michael Golvach looking for a challenging read, then “Missing Pieces” is a good it. laky, and when nervous, spouts off her weird dreams at random Gwenellen Tarbet moments. But, she is much more than meets the eye. Unable to stand up to her mother, she goes *Strong Caution*: This book along with a plan to get back the contains scenes of abuse that half of the bakery that now readers might ind dificult to belongs to Josh. read. What a sweet and humorous tale! Mandy Wexler’s soul has been This is book number 4 in the systematically torn to pieces since Misit Bride series but it stands she was a baby. The victim of very well on its own. Jake is the unspeakable abuse, she is sweet treat girls dream about. He emotionally hollow and physically has a heart of gold and is oh so maimed by her experience. yummy! Kimmie is fun, at irst, but Michael Skyler is a young man the continual use of baking terms

96 97 Contemporary in most of her dialogue gets to be up to protect but will Sam be able Minnesota. Although she believed redundant and frustrating to read to keep his promise and keep her grandparents had been dead after the irst few chapters. The Maddie safe? Will their pasts for some time, this call brings up relationship with her mother come back to haunt them, or will many questions about her past. seems a bit emotionally abusive, they ind the love they once had? Her mother’s abrupt move when making Marilyn somewhat This one is a thoroughly enjoyable she was eight is one of many. unlikable. Overall, however, this story right from the get go! Sam Jackson, her childhood friend, is book is a tale of loyalty, familial and Maddie both have baggage still angry that she never came angst, friendship and love….and and their chemistry is smokin’ home to visit. He worked for her what a sweet treat it is. hot. The pace and the ARC of the grandfather and now has to work Lynne Bryant story is spot on, making it a real with Sophia to complete the page turner - even though the challenge he came up with to keep second chance trope of high the lakeside resort in business. school sweethearts inding one Can they make it to the one-year another again has been used deadline? frequently. The small sub-plot of This irst-time author has a the spirit of Maddie’s dad was wonderful read in “Challenged”! underdone. Had more of this The emotions of the heroine and element been utilized it would what she had to endure as a child have made the book outstanding. and an adult and those of the full Regardless, this book is worth cast of characters are identiiable, every minute of reading time! and the conlicts and celebrations Lynne Bryant are realistic. The hero has his own harsh feelings which are well portrayed and when the tension Her Executive Protector and feelings of his past begin to Sharon Saracino soften, the story takes yet another turn. Suspense and sabotage are juicy and take this story to the end. Readers will enjoy the plot, and even though the concept isn’t quite unique in nature, it will Many years ago, Sam Barstow and leave readers very satisied. This Madigan (Maddie) Moran dated in book begins a series and hopes high school, and have never really would be that Sophia and Jackson forgotten each other. But, Maddie make more appearances. accepted a scholarship to an art school, and left her alcoholic Viola Robins Challenged (A Changing father and Sam behind without a word. Now, she is back in town Krysset Novel #1) after her father has died and left Kate Carley Her Faux Fiancé her their family home. Strange Alexia Adams things happen while she is there, is her father’s spirit still around and watching over her and trying to get her attention? Sophia Lancaster does not have Sam’s father has been a thorn in the stomach for her job. Getting Despite his prestige in a London his side ever since Sam decided calls at all hours to rescue law irm, Erik is a prairie boy at against following in his footsteps children from horrible situations heart. So when he returns home to and being a part of the family and placing them with children’s Canada for his grandparent’s business. Sam has recently given services is not sitting well. When a anniversary and notices a car on up his job in executive protection formal call from an attorney the side of the road, he can’t help after a fatal mistake shook his self comes regarding her but pull over. When a pair of conidence. When Maddie’s life is grandfather's death, she’s aqua-colored eyes he thought he’d threatened, however, Sam steps required to travel to Northern

98 Contemporary never see again look back at him, throughout the book but they do his heart stalls in his chest. not take away from the story and Ten years and endless hours of readers will probably not even therapy should have prepared her notice them. The “Small Town for this moment, but Analise Hearts Trilogy” promises to be a really should have known she series that will have readers eager could never return to this small for the next book to be published! town without having to face a few Mary-Nancy Smith demons. Yet, how could she possibly foresee that mere hours upon arrival that she’d be wearing Her Last Love (Small Town Drawn to Her the ring of said demon? Hearts Trilogy Book 1) (Southern Heat) A lovely return-to-one’s-roots H.C. Bentley Jenna Harte story, “Her Faux Fiancé” is a charming stroll through the lives of a couple who weren’t meant to be…yet. With rich relationships, colorful customs, and heartwarming heritage, it’s a Lieutenant Lynn Johnston returns Lexie McKenna is a nurse caring delightful escape to the prairies of to her small home town in for a dying patient. She Canada. Kentucky after having served in approaches her job and her duties the military for the last eight with a sweet, caring, and no- Some of the yes-no, yes-no, cat years. When she left to start boot nonsense attitude. Her patient is a and mouse elements grow a bit camp her iancé, Carter Mathis, cantankerous old man but he and tiresome, but quickly fade behind presented her with an ultimatum: Lexie have an understanding unique plot lines and tidy writing. either him or the military. Lynn between them, and they get along One can’t help but feel the forged ahead with her plans to fabulously - until her patient’s fondness the author has for her become a career military woman grandson comes to town. Drake story, for its places and people. It’s but situations beyond her control Carmichael does not trust the refreshing to feel the bond places her back in her hometown nurse caring for his dying through her while reading. It’s where she inds Carter again. He is grandfather. He sees her as a really quite rare anymore. She’s raising two boys while going money-grubbing gold-digger that done a tremendous job of sharing through a nasty divorce and is not wants to see how much money her tender connection with the sure how he feels about Lynn and she can steal from his grandfather reader. neither is she. When tragedy before he dies. Will Drake and Soia St. Angeles strikes at the local coal mine Lexie be able to work out their friends and family bond together differences or will they kill each to help each other cope. Will Lynn other before the air is cleared? and Carter ind themselves in each “Drawn to Her” is the irst book in other’s arm or will each of their the “Southern Heat” series and is a pasts keep them apart forever? contemporary story about life, H.C. Bentley has started what death, love, and heartache. looks to be a terriic series! “Her Contemplative in nature, it will Last Love” is a sweet have readers thinking about life contemporary story that has and death and how it affects those heart, strength, determination, around them. Author Jenna Harte loss and tragedy all rolled up in a has created an attention-grabbing wonderfully packaged story. opening to her series, with a Readers will ind it hard to put the quick-paced story that is full of book down and might ind characters that readers will fall in themselves reading into the wee love with and enjoy even after hours of the morning just to ind they are inished with the irst out what will happen next. There book. Although there are a few are small editing errors editing issues throughout the

99 Contemporary story most readers will not even has a few too many "push me-pull In the background of the romance notice them. Readers will ind it me" moments and lags in the story, an assailant is attacking hard to put down “Drawn to Her”. center. A surprising twist near the women around campus, and when They will probably ind end spins the interest again, but Charlotte inds herself becoming themselves so engrossed with the the roots of this family tree are involved in the drama, she inds story that they will block any seriously twisted. There’s a solace with Justice, and her walls interruptions that might pop up balanced separation between lead come crashing down. around them. characters and other favored book Charlotte is cold and distant, and Mary-Nancy Smith characters given a momentary has closed off her heart, which spotlight. It’s hard to pinpoint the makes it more dificult for the reason why Harley changes from reader to relate to her. Her carefree bachelor to devoted and interactions with the love interest, love-struck. His adamant stance security guard Justice Cooper, against love is a little too were forced at irst, but as the two stubborn, and for reasons that became friends, their interactions have been written many times became more natural. Charlotte before. opens up slowly, and the slower Old secrets are revealed. Love pacing is a nice change from blooms. And in the end, everyone romance novels that often include will be at the church on time. love at irst sight – no such thing Sloane Austen here, and it’s a welcome change. For Charlotte, it’s hard to focus on Drawing Me In (Due South something other than her career #7) for a change. The more the reader Tracey Alvarez dives into Charlotte’s background story, the more understandable it is why she became so cold and distant. A slow build up, with complex but intriguing characters that take a while to warm up to Bree and Harley used to torment but seem all the more realistic each other as kids, but there was once the reader gets to know also a spark between them. Not them, with plenty of mystery and until life brings them together passion, this is an excellent, enough times as adults do they When Time Falls Still sizzling read! inally turn the spark to a lame. Majanka Verstraete Harley returns to Oban from New Brenda Margriet York. He needs to reconnect with family and his New Zealand home. Redeeming Rafe (The Bree has returned too. They both Brothers of Beauford Bend love the arts, and soon they’ll Book 4) admit they love each other. Charlotte Girardet wants a career as a professor at university – and Alicia Hunter Pace Ms. Alvarez takes contemporary for that, she’s willing to put romance to new heights with the everything else, including love, twists and turns of love in aside. Justice Cooper is a security “Drawing Me In.” Her characters guard, whose job has become a lot rarely disappoint. It appears there more dificult now that a vicious are more dysfunctional families in Rafe Beauford is the consummate attacker is out to harm students Oban than most small towns and cowboy. He jumps from city to on campus. When Charlotte more to come with Bree and city riding the meanest bulls and becomes a new target for the Harley’s union, the seventh leaves a trail of satisied "buckle assailant, Justice will have to installment in the series. The Due bunnies" in his wake. That is, until protect her. South series is a must have for he gets a phone call that puts a contemporary fans, but this one halt to his life and eventually his

100 Contemporary heart. With twin girls that he and Ms. Pace has created a story never knew existed in tow, Rafe that displays the downside to heads home hoping to drop the some of life’s choices, the ones girls off and escape back to the that have a way of biting us back only life he knows - and to this when we least expect it. Readers point, the only one he has ever will be fascinated and will wanted. Abigail Whitman is at the certainly appreciate the fourth end of her rope. When Rafe book of “The Brothers of Beauford proposes a job caring for his twin Bend” series. girls with a huge pay raise and a Mary-Nancy Smith place to live she gladly accepts, but with a few conditions. Will four weeks with his daughters lead Rafe back to the rodeo circuit or will he ind a new purpose in life? Alica Hunter Pace is the mastermind behind this wonderful tale of a cowboy on the run from his responsibilities and the woman who reigns him in. “Redeeming Rafe” is a creative story that is distinctive and has a cast of characters that are fun and will have readers connecting with them on a personal level. Life is not always what we want it to be

101 102 Paranormal/Fantasy reader in a narrative that is task and one she isn’t sure she’ll complex with large amounts of accomplish. information that could have been "For the Heart of Dragons" is book pared down. While the main three in the Dragons of Eternity characters aren’t human, the series, and works ine as a themes that the author addresses standalone. Julie Wetzel has are very familiar: love, justice, created a fantastic world where mercy, friendship, honor, loss, dragons, their ancient and and the complexity of modern stories are well put relationships with others. together. This book will be A more active voice would have enjoyed by those who are into the Salvation’s Dawn (Eve of made this promising novel very series and even the casual reader. Redemption Book #1) exciting. That being said readers The characters are well written Joseph Jackson that enjoy intricate world- and their dialogue lows well with building will appreciate this action mixed in. A true page fantasy adventure. turner in every sense of the word, Danielle Hill this book will leave readers wanting more and if this is their irst taste of Julie Wetzel, then it EPIC FANTASY: Veteran Demon will certainly not be their last. Hunter and rare terra-dracon This book marks a fantastic series Karian Vanador thought she and one that will be enjoyed by would have a reprieve from many! ighting after the defeat of the Devil Queen. But she is called to a Lynn-Alexandria McKendrick mission by her sworn deity, as General Braxus Gaswell is The Secret of Isian (The Isian determined to start a race war. Series Book 3) She teams up with a group of brothers and a sister called the Serena Clarke Silver Blades, and in the process has to ponder the question of why For The Heart of Dragons she was resurrected from death, (Dragons of Eternity Book 3) and what her future holds. Julie Wetzel Joe Jackson has created an FANTASY: Rimelda has seen the elaborate fantasy world in prophecies about the war and is “Salvation’s Dawn.” Its cast convinced she can help Prince features various races of Ander. When he lets her assist, humanoids that have FANTASY: Eternity’s therapist, neither is expecting feelings to characteristics of animals such as Kara Rose, knows just how develop for one another. As they dragons, cats, lizards, and dangerous disconnection can be go on a perilous journey to demons, with an involved for dragons. When she’s called prevent the war, they must ind pantheon of gods. It’s a lot to into an emergency, she has no answers in the most unlikely keep up with. While the story is idea what’s going on. Noah is a places where danger lurks around involving, it’s also bogged down top Mage in Eternity. When he every corner. As they solve the by a narrative that tends towards goes with a dragon to help, he prophecies, Ander will have to passivity and description that doesn’t expect to become a give in and fulill his destiny to reads more like history than an dragon himself with a heart of save his Kingdom, but will he active adventure novel. Karian is stone. While suffering disconnect, reveal his true feelings for a very admirable lead character the only one who can get through Rimelda before it’s too late? who inspires sympathy and to him is Kara. She must ind a The action is continuous and respect in the reader. Her way to bring together what has makes it one of those stories a interactions with the other never been one. It’s a mammoth reader will start reading and characters serve to ground the before they know it, they’ll have

103 Paranormal/Fantasy read the book in one sitting. The what that might be. Terra is Epatha and integrates back into relationship between Rimelda pulled into the drama simply society again. Detective Alara Gale and Ander is intriguing and because she wants to help Alex. wants to ind the vampire who becomes more intense as the She has no idea how drastically it killed her boyfriend but she can’t story progresses. The dialogue is will change her life. stay away from the man who spot on with regards to the world Alex and Terra are the stars in makes her feel nothing like she’s the characters live in, and the this story of mystery and intrigue. ever felt before. When she manners and etiquette are They are certain of their wants discovers that the man she wants beautiful. This book could be read and needs and aren’t afraid to let is the same one she’s hunting, as part of the series or as a stand- them be known. Alex projects Alara faces a heart-breaking alone, however given how well it strength even though he has decision. is written and how the characters amnesia. He has a strong sense of The irst thing to note about this develop, readers will want to go duty and needs to get his memory book is the writing style: the and read the other books in the back in order to complete his words the author uses are series to continue the story. mission. The secondary beautiful and a mix of modern and Lynn-Alexandria McKendrick characters tend to stay in the dark ancient. A lot of the language is background of the story. There captivating, as are the characters are missing words throughout the that bring this story together, piece which disrupt the low of however there are some aspects the tale and the end drops many of the book which could have loose ends. Even so, a great twist done with more description. As on a dragon’s story, and well the book moves between two worth the read. times, the writer keeps the reader Belinda Wilson entertained with a storyline that has the right mixture of romance and action. Julie A. D’Arcy has written a great novel with hot and passionate characters! Lynn-Alexandria McKendrick

For the Memory of Dragons (Dragons of Eternity, Book Two) Julie Wetzel

Night’s Eternal Vow FANTASY: Terra hears what Julie A. D’Arcy sounds like an explosion in her back ield. When she goes out to investigate, she inds a huge blue Window of Death dragon. Before her very eyes, he Debra Erfert transforms into a handsome and Nobleman Vincent D’Armano is very naked man. When he inally on his way home from visiting his awakens in her home, hours later, mistress when he’s turned into a he has no idea who he is or how vampire by deadly Epatha, a he came to be in Terra’s ield. All vampiress in search of a mate. they know is that people are When they travel to America, SUSPENSE/THRILLER: Lucy is a looking for him and they aren’t Vincent makes the mistake of CIA agent working undercover exactly from the Welcome Wagon. killing a Cheyenne war chief’s son, with coyotes bringing illegals over Alex has something that they and is cursed by a shaman as a the border from Mexico. This want, but he has no clue as to result. Vincent escapes from latest mission brings up many

104 Paranormal/Fantasy other questions: Lucy is always for those that want to harm her. cautious to not blow her cover but And watching Gavin grow from someone has her house bugged being unemotional and and she thinks it’s Cooper Steele, businesslike towards Sydney, to a private security contractor who being in love with her and being often works with the FBI. Cooper willing to die for her was is relentless, asking her for extremely touching. Although the private meetings. While trying to book starts off slowly, the author uncover more details of her own incorporates plenty of twists and mother's murder when she was turns to keep the reader engaged. six months old, she has Seriously sexy and fabulously reoccurring night terrors that Of Love and Darkness entertaining, this is one book that reveals more details. Lucy is a (Twisted Fate Series Book 1) can’t be missed! fantastic CIA agent but with her Chantel Hardge gift of premonition she often Tami Lund helps others before their demise. Lucy found her match in her boyfriend Johnny, and together can help many. “Window of Death” is a fabulous Cursed to hunt other Rakshasa, read showcasing strong female Gavin Rowan must now protect characters and a never ending the humans who used to be his plot of suspense and drama with prey. While patrolling the an added dash of paranormal. downtown streets of Detroit, Readers will truly enjoy every Gavin comes across Sydney chapter and not stop until the last Amataya. As he escorts a lost page is read! There are multiple Sydney back to her car a Rakshasa attacks her, drawing blood. characters, which at times gets a Cowboy: Book 3 of the Immediately drawn to her scent, little overwhelming, but the story Shadow Keeper Series holds strong and will keep Gavin realizes two things: Sydney readers engrossed. This is part of is not human, and she is his mate. Jas T. Ward a trilogy, and reading the irst He informs her that she’s a Chala: book would deinitely help a female Light One who might be readers get up to date with where the last of her kind. Sydney this book leads. The subplots are decides that if Gavin wants to be her mate, he’s going to have to well thought out and the Gunned down in the dusty streets earn it, Fated or not. But as paranormal twists are creative of the Wild West, and interned in dozens of other Light Ones make and full of detail to give the Hell, William “Jess” Bailey now their way to Detroit to vie for her readers a irsthand experience of inds himself as one of the affections, how can Gavin what’s happening! This is a fast deadliest warriors in The Grid. convince Sydney that they are paced and clean read. Reading the But as he inds that his time on meant to be? next installment is a must! earth is quickly coming to a close, Viola Robins “Of Love and Darkness” is an he has but one goal left: keep his outstanding opening to the daughter safe from Hell’s clutches. Twisted Fate series. Ms. Lund’s When Beth Daniels arrived on the excellent character building lays scene of a homicide, she the groundwork for what’s to immediately arrested Jess as the come. Sydney is assertive and has killer. Until he is released a compassionate nature. moments later, with a strict However, Gavin may strike some warning to stay away from him. readers as brusque, entitled and As the chemistry between them mildly chauvinistic. Under Gavin's heats up hotter than Dante’s tutelage Sydney becomes a Inferno they both will have to face capable and competent adversary their own fears: love and loss.

105 106 Paranormal/Fantasy From the opening lines readers on the beach during an early Resisting Darkness (A Forest hearts will break as the author morning jog. Confused, afraid, of Darkness #3) expertly pulls on the strings of helpless as a newborn, and with Kate Wendley one’s heart as she vividly no memory of who she is, Anne recounts the hero’s childhood (as Henry names her) illed with abuse and neglect that instinctively trusts Henry to assist ultimately shapes Jess’s her. As days pass and Anne personality. Additionally, readers rapidly learns things she should bear witness to the gut-wrenching have already known, such as Ethan has carried the guilt for his tragedy as his personal happily walking, talking, eating and taking wife’s murder his whole life. After ever after is executed right before care of herself, the only clue to she was viciously murdered while his eyes. However, while steam is her past is the nightly nightmares he slept next to her, he vows to certainly not lacking, some may of golden dragons being attacked avenge her death. As he works to ind disappointment as the and burned. With a dark specter draw the killer back to Atlanta, characters seem to have little dogging them will Henry and Georgia, he’s suddenly faced with interaction with one another Anne live to unravel the mystery a new conlict. Ever the drifter, prior to their heat illed and enjoy a life together? the bold and brazen Harmony has been searching for a place to ease horizontal mambo in the sheets. Mystery, suspense, romance and her soul. When she irst takes The author eloquently brings fantasy combine to bring a sight of Ethan she can’t help but Jess’s past full circle to his present sweeping tale of humans, feel the pull of attraction; except to create a unique conlict and dragons, life, death, and love she inds herself in second place climax. While wonderfully everlasting. The explanation behind Ethan’s greatest love. Can written, readers can expect iner behind Anne’s nightmares is he let go of his guilt and shame in details to be left to the unknown. clever and unique. The characters time to ind his own internal Readers will laugh out loud at the are engaging, but Anne’s child-like harmony? Or will his obsession banter, and humor between Beth naiveté eventually wears thin and with revenge drive away his and Jess. she teeters too closely to the edge second chance at love? Stephanie Lodes of "Mary Sue-ism" to be relatable to the reader. While the plot is Readers will ind a tightly woven captivating, the execution leaves storyline to sink their teeth into! much to be desired. Overly One will ind the characters’ lives abundant mundane daily details are intimately intertwined to tend to slow the narrative. In create the perfect storm of addition, there are several conlict. Additionally, the author timeline inconsistencies and demonstrates her talent for minor editing errors that pull one writing strong, internal and from the story. Lastly, perfectly warring conlicts within the cast. explained minutiae also leave the While one experiences the gut reader mired in skepticism. Even wrenching emotions of letting a with these imperfections this loved one go they simultaneously A Dream of Dragons compelling tale pulls the reader witness a love everlasting, forward searching for the answer surpassing the bonds of time. Lauretta L. Kehoe, to Anne’s dilemma and hoping for Readers will also ind themselves Michael R. Kehoe their HEA. a spectator as the author also broaches the post traumatic Carol Conley trauma involving the vicious murder of a loved one. Given the successful recaps of previous books, one may read this third Henry Williford is a thirty- installment as a standalone; something freelance artist living a however some may ind reclusive life, allowing only his themselves missing the bigger sister Heidi and her family into picture. And excellent his heart. He is stunned to accompaniment to Ms. Wendley’s discover a beautiful naked woman

107 Paranormal/Fantasy series that will ensnare readers between plausible and the utterly from beginning to end. implausible, crashing the reader Stephanie Lodes onto the rocky shores of disappointment for the remainder of the tale. The alternating Looking for Love (The Album histories ebb and low with a Book 1 – Ella’s Story) beautiful rhythm but when the story continues in present only, it Kathy Bosman loses cohesion and becomes discordant. The characters, Liz in particular, behave oddly and the Breakwater Beach, writing becomes choppy and Uninished Business, #2 rushed. A reworking of the latter LIGHT FANTASY: Ella and Ross half of Liz’s storyline would make are best friends and she is content Carole Ann Moleti for smoother sailing. to maintain the status quo. She Carol Conley shares all her relationship problems with him, as well as problems she’s having with her three best girlfriends. Everything Lady Elisabeth Baxter and sailor seems to be working ine, until Edward Barrett are from very "The Album" shows up in a box of different backgrounds in late 19th books that Ella has inherited from century England when they fall in her great uncle. When a couple’s love. Escaping an abusive father pictures are placed in it, their and an arranged marriage, future is shown in pictures in The Elisabeth marries Edward, now a Album. Ella and her friends decide Captain of his own ship, in secret to start “The Perfect Match”, a and waits nearly two years for matchmaking service. Ross very him to send for her when the much disapproves. How can he home he builds in Brewster, get Ella to notice him when she is Massachusetts is complete. Their The Keeper, Crossing too busy matching others? short life together is punctuated Realms, #1 by strife and uninished business. This is a delightful little gem that Rebecca E. Neely is a joy to read! The characters Liz Levine is a recent widow in come to life as the pages are 2009 when she feels a compulsion turned. Each of the girls has their to buy the Barrett’s old home and own idiosyncrasies that make restore it to its former beauty. them immediately lovable. The Past and present collide and it Album itself teaches a lesson to seems that Liz is destined to Libby Klink is an accountant everyone involved within its relive the tragedy of their ancient prone to anxiety attacks and pages. It has a power that cannot history. It’s up to her to break considers herself to be fairly be ignored. The original premise their hold, but does she really boring. When her dad dies she of the book, boy meets girl, girl want to? begins experiencing strange things and thinks she may be doesn’t want to be romantically Weaving ghostly intervention and involved with boy, boy must going crazy, but then she meets the realm of reincarnation into Nick Geary and something about convince girl, is an old story, but this paranormal romance, the Ms. Bosman puts a new twist on him seems right. Safe. Hers. She author does an excellent job of can’t explain it, but Nick can. an old tale and makes it entirely balancing the razor’s edge of her own. All of the characters, Except as he lays it all out for her, believable possibility and the that he’s a Keeper, her Keeper, including the secondaries, have a ridiculously absurd of both past depth to them that is refreshing. and he’s been tasked with and present for a large portion of protecting her against the This is a fascinating novel and is the book. However, there is one the irst of a promising series. Betrayers, she wonders if he incident in the present that might be a wee bit more insane Belinda Wilson capsizes the delicate balance than she is. As events unfold at a

108 Paranormal/Fantasy rapid pace Libby is forced to is as warm and passionate as any behind this bizarre occurrence believe the world is not as she human’s. After a horrifying and remains a mystery as the story is thought and she’s the key to bitter betrayal, he wanders the unfathomable to the reviewers saving everything. No pressure earth both hiding from his who could not proceed past 3% in there! brother and looking to ill the hole the ebook. Whether it is due to A new twist on a much-loved in his heart. Daphne Lavain has editing errors, improper theme brings a fresh perspective spent the last three years translation from another language on guardians tasked with mourning the death of her into English or a combination of protecting humans from the husband, Niko. When handsome the two, the fact remains this things that go bump in the night - and mysterious Jasper walks into manuscript needs quite a lot of or day. Betrayers are not her shop, she feels that she may work in order to be readable. vampires, but the perverse mirror be ready to start down the road to Carol Conley, Lynne Bryant, of the Keepers feeding on the love again, but Jasper’s past may Amelia Kitch violence between humans that the prove insurmountable. Keepers try to squelch. The Ms. Dubois’ has an original and history of the Keepers and fresh take on the shifter genre Betrayers and where Libby its in and her idea of stone guardians with them is fascinating, but is who protect the world is dealt out so slowly over the compelling. Despite the strength course of the story it causes of this idea, the novel leaves the moments of frustration. While the reader feeling dissatisied. The plot is intriguing and fast-paced it relationship between the is a tad rocky in some areas, characters of Jasper and Daphne leaving one with an occasional is not allowed to develop unclear sense of time. However, naturally and feels forced and the characters are wonderfully hurried. There are some technical rich with detailed assets and problems as well in the story. Unstoppable laws. Want a "cheer for the Jasper can only take human form underdog" spicy paranormal at night, and Ms. Dubois relies on (Fierce Hearts 5) suspense? Look no further! some limsy plot devices to solve Lynn Crandall Carol Conley this problem. The story doesn’t low naturally and leaves the reader wondering if perhaps more editing would be beneicial and allow the story to fulill its The community of Laurelwood promise. has been rocked hard by the “Stone Hearts” is an excellent Project Powering iasco, handled foundation for some great by the Nexus Group and Senator reading. Allowing the characters Daren Sage. Veterinarian Lara more time and space to develop Monroe seeks to protect her naturally would beneit this story community, but must also hide greatly. her identity as a were-bobcat. The Gwenellen Tarbet Nexus Group has revealed the existence of the colony cats to the Stone Hearts (The Crescent world, making Lara and her kind City Sentries Book 1) Beauty of the Beast into vicious creatures, who want nothing more than to destroy Diana Marie DuBois Viktoria Faust humanity. The reality is much CNF: The premise for Viktoria’s worse and Lara’s colony plans to journey is exciting - a promising prevent this disaster at all costs. new story set in a world in which In the mix is Doctor Booker Chase, vampires are real. After all, who a were-lynx and fellow colony cat, Jasper Lafavre may be made of doesn’t love vampires? and he could either heal or break stone during the day, but his heart Unfortunately, the meaning Lara’s fragile heart.

109 110 Paranormal/Fantasy Ms. Crandall blends a special plausible. Essentially this is a aspect into her stories - the fact well-crafted tale of good versus that all of her lead characters evil. This book easily stood alone, have suffered from a trauma that thus no requirement to read book they are trying to overcome. one. The romantic entanglements Unfortunately, at times these are the threads that strongly exterior traumas detract from the connect to the irst book, so worth already complicated plot line that following. Aramie and Demir is playing out. First off, this is not make a most interesting couple. truly a standalone story. It is Penelope Anne Bartotto highly recommended to read the previous Fierce Hearts stories to Untamable Lover understand the complex plot that involves the colony cats and (A Worlds of Lemuria: Earth Nexus Group. There is deinitely Colony Novel #2) an intense amount of thought put Rosalie Redd into crafting this series and each individual tale. This particular tale brings intense action, strong characters, and deftly crafted story lines that drawn together Aramie is the second in command create a strong story. The amount of the Lemurian panther pack, of intrigue that is an overlying under the wounded leader Demir. factor in this story keeps the She is an independent woman - an reader on their tippy toes, hoping Cloaked in Blood unacceptable role in the pack - as for the perfect outcome. The (The Wulkin Legacy #3) women should submit to a mate. character interactions are Aramie plans to never be mated. T.F. Walsh beautifully crafted, which makes The Lemurian and Gossum are the inite details all that more tools in a battle fought by enjoyable. Thank heavens for Lemurians to gain control of happy endings! Earth. A challenge between ex- Penelope Anne Bartotto lovers, Alora and Zedron, to Marcin Ulf is the Hungarian colonize the planet and gain Wulkin next in line to become control of the precious water that Varlac Emperor. Marcin has spent the planet of Lemuria desperately years biding his time, growing his needs. pack and waiting to strike his A complex plot plays out quite father down. Plans speed up when smoothly under the deft hands of he discovers he is to be matched author Rosalie Redd. The with Selena Kurt, his teenage love complexity of the different and the daughter of their biggest players within the mystical game enemy. Selena has never gotten being played out is very over Marcin or his betrayal. intriguing, and draws their However, to save herself and her different plot lines together over sister from a worse fate, she the span of the novel. The key is agrees. What once was her dream complex. There is an incredible has now become a mockery. storyline in play that requires an Before they can inish their understanding of each individual mating ceremony, they are character; thankfully Ms. Redd thrown into a tournament where gives every character dutiful they must battle to save Marcin’s attention. The fantasy world of brother and a female alpha. Will Lemuria is beautifully described they be able to leave their history and earth is given the attention behind them and work together necessary to make the tale

111 Paranormal/Fantasy for a common cause, or will their continually showing up in the past dictate their future? photos she’s taking, she has more Sexy alpha shifters, fast-paced than just a job opportunity to action, intrigue, maniacal contend with. In addition, it’s politicians! “Cloaked in Blood” evident she’s feeling an attraction delivers on all accounts. Selena’s to Dante, the only person who stubbornness and wit is matched might be able to help her. by only that of Marcin’s, making Set in contemporary Florence, every interaction both frustrating Italy, this love story combines the and endearing. Ms. Walsh takes supernatural with reincarnation the reader on a journey illed with and suspense, and mixes it with a longing, heartache and healing for clean romance that’s not only Birthright (Ivy Granger, not only the main characters, but captivating but also satisfying. A Psychic Detective Book 4) their family as well. Though the little slow to start as the E.J. Stevens villains fall a bit lat in necessary background is characterization other secondary introduced, it keeps the reader characters more than make up for engaged and lipping the pages that loss. Filled with vivid rapidly once it gets past the imagery and smart dialogue, introduction. With inely drawn “Cloaked in Blood” will pull the characters that are easy to like, SUSPENSE/THRILLER: Ivy reader in from page one and not and an unfettered pace that lows Granger's story continues in let go. The Wulkin Legacy is a smoothly, one is drawn in by the “Birthright”. She is determined to series must-read! many twists and turns that are ind her father after she comes back from the dead. Her Amelia Kitch woven throughout the enthralling plot. This story has it all: witty boyfriend, Ceff, and his sidekick, dialogue, a historical art mystery, Torn, risk their lives to travel to intrigue, suspense, and an the realm of the Wisp court in element of the supernatural, tied order to unlock whatever is all together in a delightful hidden behind the key left to Ivy romantic tale that will stay with by her father. The trio encounters you long after the last page is all sorts of strange and horrible turned! creatures on their way, but they are able to prevail. Ivy begins to Janna Shay think that maybe dodging sidhe assassins isn’t as bad as she thought, but when the group Gladly Beyond reaches the Wisp court, they discover that blood ties just might Nichole Van be the end of the line. Will Ivy and the team make it out of Faerie alive or will they plunge into the black hole of the abyss? E.J Stevens has created a world of Claire Raythorn goes to Florence, sci-i/paranormal creatures and a Italy to secure a much needed job storyline that is wholly unique. and to rebuild her life after it was “Birthright (Ivy Granger, Psychic shattered by her iancé. When she Detective Book 4)” is an discovers she’s competing for the interesting mix of fantasy and job with not only her ex-iancé, iction. The only drawback to the but also the charismatic Dante story is that it is not a standalone D’Angelo, she knows she’s going book. The background of the to have to work hard to secure the characters may have readers lost position. When she discovers that and confused if they are not someone is following her, and a familiar with E.J. Stevens’s fantasy man dressed like Mr. Darcy is

112 Paranormal/Fantasy world. The series needs to be read enough to stay in the medieval dear. A car accident takes Lucas’ in the correct order so that the past to make a future with life and leaves Scott bereft and reader might understand what is Alastair? alone. Scott starts down a path happening to the characters. This is a fast-paced novel with a that has him pondering his life There are so many twists and plethora of fascinating characters! choices and priorities. However, turns in the story that the readers All of them have compelling when discrepancies arise in the will be along for a thought- backstories which are told as the investigation of the accident, Scott provoking ride. Ms. Stevens has story progresses. This in no way must put his contemplation on added another curious addition to slows the plot, but instead hold in order to protect Tracy the “Psychic Detective” series. enhances the tale by embellishing York, the Medical Examiner who Mary-Nancy Smith it with hints of other stories that found the inconsistencies that are to be found in other books in point to more than a mere the series. Mary Morgan has accident. created beautifully strong This suspense goes beyond the characters in this unique offering parameters of the usual whodunit of magical Dragon Knights, by combining two stories that damsels in distress, and dragons. intertwine seamlessly into one Although there were several loose tale illed with romance, greed, ends left hanging, they are regret, atonement, and promised to be tied up in the next forgiveness, all woven together to book - leaving this reviewer form a suspenseful read that excited to catch up with the takes place in the paranormal and friends made in this installment contemporary worlds. The and eager to see how the evil characters are engaging and Dragon Knight’s Axe (Order druid is inally conquered! likable; however the pace is of the Dragon Knights #3) Belinda Wilson choppy at times, which hinders Mary Morgan the low of the plot. With an overuse of clichéd phrases and multiple changing POVs, the story has a few hiccups, but these don't prevent one’s desire to turn the pages to get to its conclusion. HISTORICAL: Research assistant These issues, along with a Fiona O'Quinlan lives and clifhanger ending, might give the breathes her job at Trinity reader pause, but one will College. She is working on a nevertheless ind the storyline project translating a medieval captivating and entertaining. With tablet, upon which are written the a little tweaking and correction of intriguing words, “Dragon the issues, this novel has the Knight”, in Gaelic. She takes a potential for a much higher rating. break while working on the The Guardian archeological dig and when she (Mended Souls Book 1) Janna Shay awakens she inds herself in Medieval Ireland! She meets Jacquie Biggar Alastair McKay and he decides the Electromancer – A best thing is to take her to her Superhero Romance Novel relatives. During the voyage, Daco Fiona realizes she loves Alistair, the gruff, brooding, Dragon SUSPENSE/THRILLER: Lifelong Knight. Fiona makes it her friends Lucas Carmichael and mission to help Alastair take his Scott Anderson has survived axe to be cleansed by the Dragon. hardship and attained their Alexa Manchester is following in As they travel, Alastair admits to dreams of wealth, fame, and her father’s footsteps to develop a caring about Fiona. Can this fortune, - only to lose in one new power source that will modern-day Irish lass adjust foolish second what they held

113 Paranormal/Fantasy ensure available power for the progress the story line. Although masses. A new power source there is no conlict to speak of, the called the Magpie is the plot is enough to perpetuate the culmination of his life’s work. interest, rewarding the reader Things go wrong when Alexa with a tale of love and magic reveals the Magpie to an eager that’s laden with sizzling sexual public. The fabled arch-villain chemistry, a few surprises, and a Momo makes his move to steal romance that satisies the senses. the Magpie at her most With a resolution of the issues, triumphant moment but the heist this novel has the potential to doesn’t go according to plan. become a terriic romantic novel. When Alexa tries to stop Momo, Janna Shay A Witch's Journey (The an accident causes Magpie’s power to transform Alexa into Lobster Cove Series) Electromancer. Bestowed with Tena Stetler extraordinary powers, she joins forces with the mysterious Blue Arrow in an attempt to stop Momo before he can destroy the world with his doomsday device Using magic causes nothing but called the Big Zapper. problems for witch Pepper Deliciously campy, McKay. Fortunately, she has her “Electromancer" combines the love of wildlife rescue and rehab excitement of a superhero story to keep her content. However, with the romance of a love story. when she is no longer welcome in Under A Blood Kissed Moon Written in the spirit of superhero Salem and the funding for the (BloodMoon & Magic #1) graphic novels of the genre’s Salem Wildlife Sanctuary heyday, the story is full of bigger- becomes endangered because of Kelleye Richards than-life characters and lots of her employment there, she action. However, it is missing one decides to move, even though essential element that made those she’s short of funds. When an stories truly come to life – unexpected boon comes in the illustrations. The characters are form of inherited property in Thoren de Lucien is a vampire too one-dimensional and the Lobster Cove, her lifelong desire tormented by his past – shifters story arc is too simplistic to keep to build her own wildlife center tore apart his family and clan, and the reader’s interest on their own. becomes a possibility. And with now he’s on the hunt, killing A talented illustrator could help handsome handyman Lathen everyone who crosses his path. A to fulill the potential of the Quartz’s offer of help, her dream passionate encounter at a bar author’s vision and bring the is attainable. The chemistry with a female shifter leaves him story to life for a lot of future fans. between them can’t be denied, shaken when he goes after her, For those readers who want a but the secrets they keep hidden planning to get some answers, little camp and fun, could hinder love. because the answers certainly “Electromancer” will ill the bill This fascinating paranormal weren’t what he expected. nicely. romance entrances the reader Ember Scott works as a Gwenellen Tarbet from the very beginning, enticing bartender. She’s a snow leopard one to turn the pages to get to the shifter, and was raised by two happily ever after. However, with vampires. One night with Thoren fragmented sentences and left her almost dead, and she’s shifting points of view, one’s focus determined to get through and is dificult to maintain at a steady heal the vampire who is so pace. The characters are engaging different from any other vampire and easy to relate to, but the low she’s ever met. Before she can becomes bogged down with a help Thoren, she’ll have to deal little too much detail that doesn’t

114 Paranormal/Fantasy with her own past. And before also her own. With secondary searching for something, and they can do that, Thoren’s past characters throwing spanners in while she should be wary of catches up with him. the works, Sam and Blake need to Conor because his kind usually With some scorching hot scenes, unearth the truths behind her slaughters hers, she can’t help the this is a sizzling, fast-paced lapses of memory in order to stop lure his presence has on her. It paranormal romance with some the destruction of the Dragon Fae, has nothing to do with ire sprites intriguing, although slightly to make way for a new world or pixies - it is pure passion that stereotypical characters. Thoren order. brews between them. Opposites de Lucien is the quite typical This story was gripping in several deinitely do attract, but they tormented/brooding vampire areas particularly towards the can’t dally with romance while a alpha, and Ember Scott is the girl end of the novel. It was also caster is bringing monsters into with a dark past who wants to unique in that the author did not their world. save him. The plot isn’t that use the run-of-the-mill shifters “Hunting for Spring” opens with original, and even some of the but used another animal, which the best paragraph this reviewer twists were predictable, and was refreshing. However, one has ever read. Originality jumps while it is entertaining, this does cannot help but think that there is from every page. Suspense coils take away some of the fun of a similarity to Stephanie Meyer’s, tightly as the plot unfolds and so reading. It doesn’t offer anything “The Host”, with respect to what does the restrained passion new from other paranormal is happening to Sam and her between the lead characters. books out there. relationships with Blake and Conor has two tantalizing traits: A fast-paced book that is easy to Mack. While the author tried to he’s tough but he also has a softer read in one setting, with engaging give the female character side, especially for those in need. characters and a luent writing different characteristics to While in a heated embrace with voice. separate her from her alter-ego, Brenna, his hard-edged father and there were occasions where their friend Liam banishes her to a Majanka Verstraete voices became indistinguishable, dangerous place. Conor’s leading to a slight confusion as to response is a little too calm and who was talking. This intruded understanding. The dialogue into the enjoyment of reading and moves the suspense, but not the getting absorbed in to the story. romance. Nevertheless, towards the end of Ms. McIntyre has created a wholly the novel, the excitement picks up engrossing world illed with again and one cannot help but creatures and calamity. There’s look forward to what happens more to come in future books to next to the Dragon Fae. divulge who is behind unleashing MP Ceja evil entities hungry for the unsuspecting humans and snatching the half-breeds of Hunting for Spring Inner Demons Philly. Katherine McIntyre (Hidden Monster #2) Sloane Austen Amanda Strong

Conor, a hunter on the trail of all things creepy from the PARANORMAL: Samantha Otherworld, engages in a deadly Campbell has a secret that only standoff with a wight. While one other person knows. Thrust neutralizing the creature’s into the world of the Dragon Fae, insatiable bloodlust for humans, Sam needs to ind out why that Conor runs across Brenna. A secret has wrought havoc not only relationship is seeded: part in the Dragon Fae’s world, but professional, part sizzle. Brenna is

115 116 Young Adult including Eben, Lily’s longtime Getting to know the delightful friend and captain of the guard-- characters makes this novel easy seemingly out of reach for a to read. There is a large cast of crown princess. Enthralling characters, but they are all so descriptions of the magical unique it is easy to keep them underground and the beautiful straight. Although the storyline is gowns the sisters wear each night familiar, Ms. Tyner puts some are sure to appeal to readers. The twists into this novel making it story does seem to stumble near distinctively hers. There is a its climax as the story falls prey to plethora of missing words which overused young adult romantic interferes with the low of this The Firethorn Crown angst, but otherwise, this is a very incredible story. The well-done fantasy romance. metamorphosis of Sadie (Firethorn Chronicles I) Danielle Hill throughout the pages is chilling as Lea Doue’ she goes through her tribulations. This reviewer is glad to know that Sadie’s story is not over yet, there is another novel in this amazing series. FANTASY/FAIRYTALE: Lily is Belinda Wilson Crown Princess of Ituria, the eldest of twelve. Since her 21st birthday, she’s been expected to choose her future husband, wading through a sea of aggressive suitors, and knowing the man she wants she can’t have. When she and her sisters stumble Lost (The Caelian Cycle Book across a secret passageway in the 1) garden leading to an underground Donnielle Tyner kingdom, they fall under a curse that means she cannot speak until she chooses the man she loves and is loved in return. Each night, Solstice (Volume 1) the twelve princesses must return to dance the night away with the SCI-FI: During WWI, a meteorite Jane Redd most persistent suitor of all, the hit earth and alien DNA scattered, cursed sorcerer prince who won’t affecting the soldiers. Some of take Lily’s rejection for an answer. their children are Caeliens, which means they can have odd Ms. Doue’ retells the Grimm fairy colorations and all have a talent - tale “The Twelve Dancing SCI-FI: Jezebel James lives in a those talents being things like Princesses” with panache and dystopian world where emotions light bending, power over ire, and emotional relevance to captivate and free thinking are strictly being a siren. Most Caeliens are novices to the original and those controlled by electronic implants. placed in orphanages because who cherish it. Each sister is well- No rebellion is tolerated. On her their families reject them. Sadie is developed and distinct, making way to becoming a brilliant an orphan in every sense of the them feel like real characters. scientist, she has also been word and that is how she came to Lily’s anguish and determination endowed with a secret too that live at Saint Vincent’s. So far she is to protect her sisters and their could change the world. The only the only one in her senior class camaraderie and love for each thing is she doesn’t know if the who has yet to develop a talent. other is heart-warming. The change will make the world better She’s always felt different from secondary characters include or inally destroy it forever. the others, but has no idea how young men who have intriguing different she is until handsome The future that Ms. Redd has chemistry with a few older sisters, Kian reveals her parentage to her. envisioned is strikingly original

117 Young Adult and a departure from most evil. Her attention to detail is dystopian novels. Jezebel James is great and her vision of the a complex character who is all- paranormal is original and too-human as she struggles with interesting. Unfortunately, too the burden of a secret that could much of the reader’s energy is kill her while trying to determine focused on trying to igure out where her moral compass lies. what is happening as the bulk of She winds her way through a the story takes place in the maze of mystery and moral previous books of the series. The dilemmas that would confound author fails to give the reader someone with more experience much needed background and wisdom and so it is not material for the story to anchor Witches (Runes #6) surprising that her character is the reader into the present. Ednah Walters often confused as to the best “Winter Moon” would have been course of action. However, some much better if it were a longer of her choices defy logic as she is story instead of being broken up unable to make the even basic into several books. It also could decisions without putting herself have used another round of and others in jeopardy. This editing. The grammatical PARANORMAL: Raine Cooper is becomes tiresome for the reader mistakes and continuity errors not your average teen girl; in the and slows down the pace of the are distracting and have the past few weeks she has learned novel. unfortunate effect of propelling she is an immortal seer and a Despite this relatively minor law, the reader out of the story. witch with some outrageous “Solstice” is a great read. Ms. power. She also happens to be The conclusion? “Winter Moon” is dating an immortal hunk, Torin St. Redd’s prose is excellent and she a great starting place and Ms. vividly paints a believable story of James. Her and her friends try to Gorri’s imagination is irst-rate. live life normally, but reality for humanity on the edge of One hopes that she will take the extinction. “Solstice” is a good them is skewed to the incredibly time to fully develop this story strange. One minute she is start to what promises to be a and its characters, and give the great series. changing a classmate’s destiny, reader a more complete look into the next she is ighting possessed Gwenellen Tarbet the world she has created. bears in the forest, all the while Gwenellen Tarbet dreaming of her prom dress. Now the Norns are coming to stake Winter Moon: A Grazi Kelly their claim on her and she wants Novel: Book 4 (Grazi Kelly nothing of their ways and Novel Series) demands. Unfortunately, she must C.D. Gorri protect the world in the process of ighting the Norns and all other immortals who seek to harm her and prevent her from living life as she wishes. PARANORMAL: Grazi is caught While not the irst in the series, between two worlds and doesn’t "Witches" is able to stand alone as know where her allegiance lies. Ms. Walters is quite adept at Her heart however, knows with telling an intriguing story with whom she belongs. Desperate to plenty of action and interesting reunite with her true love, Ronan, characters. The mystical life that she must battle an army of Raine leads is a perfect addition to witches and vampires, and a the reading list of people from 15 hypnotic demon named Ash. to 100. The plot is clear and provides plenty of action to keep Ms. Gorri creates an interesting the reader attached to the story. world populated by magical Alas, there are a number of creatures that are both good and

118 Young Adult editorial errors that do detract and her story. This is Grazi’s story, used here to connect humans with from the reading enjoyment continuing from the previous the underworld the way the factor. These can easily be altered books, but capable of standing Bifrost connects Asgard to Earth. and the dreamy romantic novel alone. While the story resolved one issue will be a great addition to the Penelope Anne Bartotto relating to the antagonist, it did existing series. not resolve the conlict posed at Penelope Anne Bartotto the beginning, leaving one slightly bemused. This has a clifhanger and was more of a foundation for Rebel Moon the next novel in the series. The next novel in the series should be (A Grazi Kelly Novel #3) on hand immediately or it may C.D. Gorri lead the readers turning the last page with a lot of frustration. MP Ceja

PARANORMAL: Young Maria The Kingdom of the Faeries: Graziana Kelly has discovered a Demons: (Eirik Book 1) Edenhart’s Rivalry lot about herself in the past year. Ednah Walters J.N. Tomczak First, she is a werewolf and sole heir to Greyback Pack, Hounds of God. Secondly, she is a dreamwalker. Thirdly, dark witches want to take control of the world around her. All of this PARANORMAL: After having lived Aurora, daughter of the King of before she turns sixteen! She is abysmally as a human on earth, the Faeries, suspects her father expected to follow the rules of a Eirik Baldurson has gone to the was murdered rather than fallen society she is just now learning of underworld to meet Hel, the in battle as others want her to and as Rolf Kelly’s heir, she is held mother he never knew. She believe. When she and her friend to a higher standard than others - throws him into the dungeon Percy, Captain of the Elite Guard, a standard she ights iercely, further cementing his belief in of uncover an ancient prophecy, she being raised as an independent his mother’s ruthlessness. Before becomes an unwilling pawn in a American teen. Her betrothed Hel returns to check on him, a plot that threatens everything she leaves her behind when she witch appears inside his cell and loves, and Aurora must ask herself insists she does not wish to marry Eirik believes she is a soul. how far she’s willing to go to save him, even though she is very much Celestia Devereaux comes from a her kingdom. in love with him. Her rebellious long line of witches. She was Now Queen of the Faeries she streak is strong and will get her spurned by her own mother and deinitely doesn’t it have it easy, into a lot of trouble, if she isn’t raised by her Chief of Police father as everyone seems out to get her. careful. and her witch grandmother. She Despite that, she rules to the best has the gift of astral projecting to of her abilities, and she knows The premise of this novel has a places where people are in danger large amount of potential: a young how to put others’ needs in front or in need of her help. This time of her own. girl, suddenly drawn into a when she astral projects, she lifestyle that is strict and rigid, lands inside Eirik’s cell. Aurora is an intriguing character who wants to buck authority. who is stuck in a complex world of Good idea! Unfortunately it is “Demons” is illed with snarky court intrigue and royal burdened with many redundant comments and the coming of age obligations. The other characters descriptions and details for the of both Eirik and Celestia when were well-developed, but none of irst half of the book. The second they become more aware of each them had the depth Aurora had, half of the story is heavy on action other. The plot relies heavily on making them fall a little lat in and this is when the book takes on Norse mythology and the story comparison. There is some a life of its own and draws the combines the concept of dragons romance but it’s a subplot, and reader deeply into the character and witches. Astral projection is doesn’t really overthrow the main

119 Young Adult plot of magic and mayhem. The pacing starts out slowly but gradually improves. The setting works well, and the author did an excellent job crafting the world Aurora and her friends live in. The book has quite a few twists and turns, and all in all, it’s a compelling, engaging read. Majanka Verstraete

120 121 Suspense/Thriller well, although the main story arc dead ends are woven throughout is not unique. Although there are the plot as in any respectable some unsavory bits it’s mystery/suspense novel. The plot thoughtfully written. Readers will goes awry with its pacing, surely enjoy this for a quick however; some sections were summer read! drawn out and lengthy making the Viola Robins reader trudge through areas of the text while trying to keep details and clues straight. Once adjusted to the change in pace the ride was an enjoyable and Tarnished Romance challenging adventure in Sandi K. Whipple sleuthing. Cassidy Clark's character is written in a fresh way, which creates a rejuvenated ideal of a gumshoe. Unlike the reclusive, maladjusted detective archetype, Cassidy emerges as a Judy Stone becomes Judy Kalfus person one would like to meet on her eighteenth birthday and and chitchat with over a cup of heads west from Illinois, leaving Bye, Bye Bones (A Cassidy coffee and a good book. her painful upbringing behind. Clark Novel - Book 1) She ends up in San Francisco by Amy Willis Lala Corriere way of a woman who claimed could and would help her start a new life. What Judy didn't understand at the time was the price she’d have to pay - she was recruited as a high-end call girl. Cassidy Clark, a private eye and Judy was void of any love in her crime novelist, is hired by the childhood so really, no emotion Tucson PD to assist on the got in the way of her job. Once she investigation of a possible serial loses her boss she goes out on her killer. Independent, successful, own. Means of survival leads her and beautiful women have gone to carry on her career path, it’s all missing without a trace she knows and has done well for throughout the normally peaceful suburb. Stumped by the lack of herself. She’s had to lie to people Guiding Fate she cares about and when love connection between the victims or inally inds her is she capable of evidence left behind, Cassidy and Tamra Lassiter loving back or will the deceit win her team pull out all the stops in out? order to solve the mystery; however, Tucson's crime spree Ms. Whipple has created a spirals out of control with the fantastic heroine! Readers will be stalking of a divorcee by his drawn into Judy’s story Single mom Melanie Woodside heiress ex-wife and a few immediately and sympathies will has been on her own since before poisonings. The addition of run deep. The ebb and low of her her son was born. Divorced and several unusual occurrences real chance at love is believable left behind while pregnant by her threatens to upend her progress, and has readers rooting for Bryce ex-husband Malcolm, she’s and Cassidy is left piecing Stevens, the attorney that’s made managed to carve out a quaint, together an impossible puzzle. a connection with Judy, or so he comfortable, and routine life - Will she ind the culprit before she thinks. The loyalty portrayed by until he makes an unannounced becomes next on the killer's list? Judy’s few friends is a nice touch appearance professing his love and keeps her character From the irst page of the book, and begging for a second chance. grounded. This story covers many the reader will be immersed in a Fresh out of the Marine Corps, and topics and they are played out dark mystery. Twists, turns, and struggling with the mental scars

122 Suspense/Thriller of war, Will Everton is called actions on reasons palatable only home by his great aunt to house to them as they leave a bloody sit while she recovers from trail in their wake. Detective surgery. After an awkward irst Blaine tracks them down with the meeting with Melanie the two help of an old childhood friend become fast friends. Wanting to who is now a sheriff. keep Melanie safe, he denies the “Unconscious Knowledge” is a internal sparks that she ignites goth Bonnie and Clyde tale in and attempts to maintain his contemporary times; an eclectic distance. As the two battle their mix of lives broken apart then own demons, will they ind solace spun back together into a bloody in the fate that brought them climax. Whether a reader can be The Captain (Grifin Force 2) together? intrigued by the lowliest pits of Julie Coulter Bellon Readers enjoying irst person and life and its tragedies is unknown. dual points of view will love this This novel spotlights the atrocities candid read! Furthermore, some parents bequeath on their readers looking for a fast-paced, children. It attempts to show romantic read will devour the poverty leads to abuse. It also pages. However, those looking for suggests love can be borne from Brenna is working undercover for more substance and character desperation where a lost soul Grifin Force and has been sold as development may ind themselves inds safety in the company of a slave to Nazer. She dutifully disappointed. One will take great another lost soul. It is a dark story does as she is told and works enjoyment in the display of banter with a dark ending, where the quietly in his household. In this which makes for a fun and young adults are the real victims. way she can overhear his entertaining read. The author also Marcy and Sydney survived the conversations and is able to get exhibits great reinement as she trauma they endured as children valuable information about his transports one back in time by and then time deals them an awful plans. She has a contact at the painting vivid and vibrant hand by marching them straight local market and is able to pass imagery of combat related into adulthood. This is a hard this information on to her lashbacks. Additionally readers book to read with a severe case of superiors. will ind an abrupt ending, that is head-hopping that confuses the When she is told to take water to a later inalized in the epilogue story line. Similar to following a room she knows is used for which some may feel presents a narcotic-induced mind working interrogations, she is shocked to cliché ending. Reader’s looking to through a jigsaw puzzle, ind Captain Colt Mitchell there. quench their thirst with a light “Unconscious Knowledge” has a He has been captured and beaten summer read will devour Will and murky depth all its own. by Nazer's men. Colt and Brenna Melanie’s love for one another! This story’s rawness undoubtedly have a long history together and Stephanie Lodes could attract a producer to turn it were once very close. Brenna into a movie revered by the knows she must free Colt because damned and the forgotten of our her position in Nazer's household Unconscious Knowledge society. has now been compromised. When Colt wakes up, they plan Beaird Glover Sloane Austen their escape. Just when they think they are free and in the clear Brenna is missing. Colt then begins his mission to save the woman he realizes he still loves. Marcy and Sydney are young Julie Coulter Bellon takes the adults and the casualties of abuse. reader on a magniicent journey Adrift on their own, they manage illed with all the sights and to ind one another - as nihilists sounds of the Middle East. The seem to - and their relationship author not only thrills the reader quickly explodes. They turn to with the twists, turns and horrors crime and lay the blame for their of espionage but also gives many

123 Suspense/Thriller insights into why someone would Nicole has already been hurt political arena both in the public risk themselves to live this kind of when the story starts and she is eye and out of it, except for life. The supporting characters are on her way to healing. However, Rebecca. Having lived her entire leshed out and made real by when an issue as large being life outside politics and the public, giving the reader a little bit of unable to hear anything is written the death of her brother Sam, the their background. Also she tells us into a character, dialogue and current President, has her family why they are either in Grifin actions cannot be written forcing her into the spotlight with Force or helping out in their own normally. A character who can’t a series of deals for information countries. Ms. Bellon provides a hear someone beating on her door she desperately wants. Running riveting story illed with simply will not be able to have a her own powerhouse green excitement, intrigue and love! normal conversation, yet no company should have been Rose Mary Espinoza mention of any “unusual” enough preparation for her to run behavior or actions, such as and become President. It wasn’t. having to write notes back and Although the actual date is never forth is ever used. Kyle’s use of mentioned, a few clues within the Nicole in his investigation is book set this tale only a few forgiven a little too easily. Readers decades into the future. Nearly all will fall in love with a wonderful technology mentioned are things cast of characters, all with that either are just now emerging, strengths and laws the or are only a few years away from complement each other. Readers being mass produced. Political will be on the edge of their seats intrigue, especially now, is a while watching the nail-biting popular topic, and though this tale actions unfold until the bad guy is slips into a few divisive soapbox caught. moments and is clearly on one Between Midnight and Dawn Julie York side of the political spectrum, its Cheryl Yeko entirety is not written offensively. Where it falls down is with the unreasonable level of descriptions and scenes that are wholly unnecessary to any of the plots or subplots. At every introduction of Decades ago, Kyle’s mother was every character and entire tortured and murdered by a man background is given, sometimes who became a serial killer. Forced as a lashback, even if that to take a vacation after naming character is only in that one scene. someone without having proof, So much extra only bogged down Kyle follows the man as he begins a fascinating story. Rebecca is an to stalk a woman Kyle believes to unforgettable character with an be his next target. Nicole has Rebecca Tree: A Political amazing journey she takes on to already survived being attacked Dynasty Unravels ind answers. by her boyfriend and is trying to rebuild her once peaceful life. Michael Abramson Julie York Thinking Kyle only wants to be a tenant for her small rental house in her backyard, she has no idea she’s a target for death. This is not a tale where readers Rebecca Tree comes from a long are trying to ind the bad guy— line of political movers and the killer is known from almost shakers. Though her family page one—instead readers will be actually has few members in it rooting for Kyle to igure out how (due to death hitting hard), those he is going to prove it after who were bypassed have decades of not being caught. managed to worm their way into power within the American

124 125 Suspense/Thriller an amazing friend, sticking beside independent young adult with a Finn no matter what. Readers will tortured soul who makes some ind themselves rooting for Finn strange choices. Jake is a ruggedly and Cori to be more than just handsome older man who takes friends. The story is a page turner his job seriously but has a past that deftly draws one in and that haunts him, which also leads doesn’t let go until the villain is to some questionable actions. discovered. And, the ending will This original story has a smooth be a shocker! Sit down, and hold arc but there are several copy on tight for this wild ride! editing issues such as missing Lynne Bryant words, misplaced punctuation and Severed Relations a pivotal character, Professor Reston, is miscalled as Professor (Finn O'Brien/Cori Anderson Riordan. Additionally, the mature Thriller) (Volume 1) moments in this story may leave Rebecca Forster readers questioning the believability of this encounter in regard to the timing given the amount of time Sara and Jake spent together leading up to their moment. Readers will not see the Finn O’Brien has had a rough paranormal inluence coming. road. Although charged with murdering a fellow oficer, he has Jordyn Teel recently been cleared of all charges. However, the road has Fated Love just gotten rougher. A nanny and two children are murdered and he Susan Boles and his old partner, Cori Anderson are tasked with inding the murderers. Cori is pretty much the only one who will work beside Finn, all the other oficers want Artist and gallery owner Sara him to fail, blaming him for the Cameron has had some hard death of a fellow oficer, guilty or knocks in life. The recent death of not. Together Finn and Cori must her family is only compounded by follow the trail of bodies to losing her gallery to a suspicious Ain't Misbehavin': Vancouver uncover who is responsible for ire. Memphis arson investigator Blues Series, Book 2 such a horriic crime. Catching Jake Riordan has seen a lot in all murderers might be the easy part, his years, but his sudden Jo-Ann Carson dealing with hidden feelings and attraction to Sara has him bafled. traumas of the past may be even When Sara discovers she harder. Will Finn and Cori’s suddenly has a stalker, Jake is working relationship and compelled to protect her. But friendship survive, or will it be who is he really protecting her severed forever? In the sleepy dockside community from? Can a trip New Orleans of Vancouver, Maggy Malone is Ms. Forster sure knows her way help keep her safe or will it reveal torn between two men. How can around a thrilling tale! This book other mysteries that involve both she choose between them: the has so many twists and turns that their lives? Will fate be man she feels safe with or the man one will need to pay attention to instrumental once again in their she knows sparks lames every every word in order to keep up! paths crossing? time they meet? Multiple events, Finn has a lot of baggage, but he is A hauntingly mysterious tour of and bodies, start stacking up after a wonderful character, and his the south, “Fated Love” is a a young alderman is murdered in little bit of Irish accent adds the contemporary romantic suspense. the same restaurant where Maggy perfect sigh-worthy touch. Cori is Readers will ind Sara an is having dinner. She can recall

126 Suspense/Thriller details about all but one of the Ms. Moore writes very well, the patrons at that night’s dinner, and two stories seemed a bit that lapse in memory is critical. disjointed and don’t align as Can the resident legendary ghost smoothly as desired. The depth of Tuscan Trattoria save her life? and backstory to the characters is Which man will win her heart - a bit light as well, making it Logan, Hunter or the killer who dificult to connect with them. prays for her heart to stop? There are lots of twists, turns and This is an original, steamy glimpse characters that keep the story of Canadian life anchored around moving and engrossing - as long a romantic suspense which is the as one pays close attention! If so, second installment of the Lost King it promises to keep one turning those pages until the climatic end! Vancouver Blues Series. Bar (An Omar Zagouri manager/singer Maggy Malone is Lynne Bryant a complex character with Thriller) conlicting feelings, especially Heather B. Moore given her failed marriage. Maggy’s relationship issues are confusing to her, the men in her life, and translates as such to readers. There are elements in Present-time Egypt: Omar Zagouri this installment that rely heavily is on a mission. His job is to ind a on the irst book. While it is clear missing, priceless artifact - the that she is involved in a bar, it is Book of the Dead - a book that less clear that she works for a someone is willing to kill for. This dentist as well. This installment is artifact could change history as it littered with several editing issues is known, along with everything such as missing punctuation, that is believed about Moses and words with missing or additional The Assassin’s Kiss the Ten Commandments. The letters, and run-on-words that murderer is not above kidnapping J. A. Kazimer should be separated. While this those who are able to translate story is slated as suspense, the the scrolls for their beneit. So, it author portrays the killer’s becomes a necessity to uncover intentions and movement, which who is behind the murder and leaves little to the imagination. kidnappings, and ind the lost Nate Taylor is an assassin…a The resounding happily-ever-after scrolls before their translation minor detail he never told his is bittersweet and leaves room for becomes public knowledge. estranged wife, Julia. Now Julia is more mysteries in Maggy’s life. Ancient Thebes 1490 BC: ready to remarry, and she wants Jordyn Teel Hatshepsut’s father is Thutmose I, to throttle Nate in the worst way Pharaoh of Egypt. His heir to the because he won’t sign their throne is her best friend, and one annulment papers. When Julia she is expected to marry. She shows up unannounced on his wants no part of marrying anyone, houseboat, they are suddenly she wants to be Pharaoh, and does attacked by assassins. Nate all that she can to prove that she is believes Julia is the target and, worthy. doing what he does best, he protects her by taking her to his The setting of Egypt in this book hometown of Gibsonton. He must was truly a highlight! With a dual ind out who is behind the attacks story line, one in the present and and if it has anything to do with one in the past, it is also the 3rd the man that Julia plans to marry. book in the series. The two stories From the Everglades of Florida, to are meant to correlate, the past a cozy cabin in the woods, Julia supporting the present plot. While will see a side of Nate that she has

127 Suspense/Thriller never seen before. Will they also looking for Bella, but because of many genres and leave one survive the assassins attempts, she is his sister who is being held satisied as they reach the and the chemistry between them? for ransom by his old enemy. conclusion to this intriguing and What a unique backdrop for a Melissa and Aristides’ search for entertaining read. story! With a circus town called Bella has them colliding at every Janna Shay Gibsonton, the characters are corner, and Aristides isn’t totally eclectic and interesting. Nate is convinced of Melissa’s innocence the protective alpha bad boy, sexy in the kidnapping. However, and hot. Julia is strong, sparks ly when the mutual determined and can fend for attraction between them herself. Together their chemistry threatens to ignite. is off the charts! This story has it This beauty and the beast all, intrigue, mystery, unexpected rendition is not the usual twists and turns, great side approach to romantic suspense, characters, and a villain that isn’t but it captures the interest and easily to determine until it smacks engages the reader with a good the reader in the face. The ending story line. The characters are between Nate and Julia is a bit engaging, however with a too predictable but still worth the quick and intense attraction read. This story is a page turner between the protagonists, the and one that isn’t easily set aside reader questions the credibility of until the last word is devoured! the instantaneous and deep Lynne Bryant enchantment, considering the heroine’s irst thought was that the hero was “ugly as hell” and refers to him as “Monster Man.” Along with some editing issues that need to be addressed, the story doesn’t low as smoothly as it should. Nonetheless, the plot draws one in with suspense, twists and turns, sizzling chemistry, and smoldering romance. This suspense-laden love story will appeal to readers

Beneath the Skin (The Skin Quartet Series) Zara West

College student Melissa Dermot is writing her dissertation on tattooing as an order to obtain her PhD. in anthropology. Needing to complete her interview with tattoo artist Bella Bell in order to inish her thesis, she is stymied when Bella goes missing and attempts to investigate. Reclusive billionaire Aristides Stavros is

128 129 New Adultin style of dress gave the reader a girl’s ideal man: caring yet strong, glimpse of their struggle. The conident yet vulnerable remainder of the text was (especially where Ashton is predictable and lacked surprises. concerned). Angst-illed Ashton is One was able to anticipate the someone a lot of girls can entire plot line with shocking empathize with, particularly accuracy. The awkward when it comes to the pressures relationship between Aella and imposed on them by society. Billows became the only glimmer Eventually she breaks away from of interest throughout the book. this imposed mold to become her Their depth of feelings was own person. The author also gives Lost in Flight touching and the novel's slight substance to the secondary redemption. characters, showing the reader (Aella Duology - Book 1) Amy Willis why they are what they are. Amy Ritchie Inevitably, one will feel for the characters who, in the beginning, one would want to head slap. “Fractured Palace” is a story that shows that not all facets of one’s TIME TRAVEL: On a satellite life have to be completely broken. planet, many years into the They are just catalysts for future, time travel is possible and something better. resources are scarce. Our main M.P. Ceja character Aella is forced to choose between starvation and certain death, or working in an un- hospitable work place. She chooses life, and begins working Fractured Palace immediately, hoping to leave her hardships behind. Curious about RJ Loom the ins-and-outs of her workplace, Aella is drawn to a mysterious time machine. Defying her brooding boss, Billows, she crawls aboard the private light set to Ashton Roberts has known take its patrons back to ancient heartaches and disappointments earth circa 1939. Technical practically all her life. Not Everlasting dificulties force a crash landing surprising, then, that she tries to L.K. Kuhl and a deinite change in plans. steel herself against anyone who Stranded in a foreign world from could completely crush her a long ago past, Aella and Billows already fractured heart. Reed must ind a way to survive while Collins, Ashton’s former neighbor waiting for their rescue. The and childhood protector, has result of their adventure, neither always had feelings for her. When PARANORMAL: Shy, studious of them expected. fate inally allows them that little Sophia lives in a tiny town in The premise of the book is unique piece of heaven, they take it, until Montana. Mandy, who moved four in the sense that the story's a secret Reed has kept all these years earlier calls and asks her to characters had to adapt to and years is unearthed and tears them ly to Charleston for the entire live in the past time they crashed apart. summer before their senior year of high school. Sophia, though landed in. The planet they came In “Fractured Palace” the author suspicious, goes anyway. In from was many years in the captures the bittersweet love Charleston, she inds Mandy living future in an almost apocalyptic between Ashton and Reed. In an with her boyfriend, and another environment, so their interactions age where book boyfriends are de guy named Tate in a huge old with our animals and the change rigueur, Reed Collins epitomizes a

130 Victorian house on the beach. Newquickly losing Adult the reader’s Mandy hasn’t seen her parents in sympathy. Though some eight months. As soon as she redemption is found through arrives, Sophia hears strange lashbacks, the story could have music, sees evil-looking beings beneited from slowing down and cloaked in black, lurking around. giving each obstacle time to settle. She brushes it off, thinking it’s her With funny, endearing characters imagination running wild. She and smart dialogue the reader falls hard for Tate, and it seems will deinitely be anxiously they’re destined to be together. awaiting the next book in this But will it be in this life…or the series! next? Resonance Amelia Kitch Ms. Kuhl has a uniquely original (Golden Beach #3) talent for description in this contemporary paranormal. Head- Kim Loraine The Crimson Cloak shaking credibility issues begin H.L. Wampler early and last throughout the story…from the “worrying” mother allowing a 17 year-old girl to ly cross-country for the Garrett Donalson and Angela summer when she’s had zero Peters have been best friends and Interning for one of Pittsburg’s contact with the other child’s band mates for 12 years. Their top lawyers is nothing to scoff at, parents for four years…to the band Panic Station is about to hit especially at a young age. Elyse farfetched capabilities of ghosts. the big time and head out on an Grimm knows she’s just landed a Sophia is supposedly bright, but international tour, opening for a coveted position and intends to brushes off the strange terrifying chart-topping headliner. It is prove her mettle with focus and sounds and sights, falls in love everything Angela has ever dedication. It’s easier said than instantly, once, then immediately wanted and fame and recognition done, though, when she’s plagued latches on to someone else totally are inally in sight. However, just by a particularly b-witchy controlling and unlikeable— before leaving on tour she wakes receptionist and charmed by a making her seem shallow and up to ind Garrett in her bed. They handsome prince of an IT guy. wishy-washy. The plot is sketchy made a pact years ago, one Angela and rampant with loose ends, plans to keep; no distractions, no A string of bizarre attacks on inconsistencies, incorrect word relationships and no dating women suddenly plague the city, usage, actions that don’t it within the band. and Elyse discovers there’s more today’s age of information, and a to the mysterious disappearance Garrett has been in love with confusing, unsatisfying ending of her father than she was lead to Angela for 12 years and has no that sends an iffy message to believe. As puzzle pieces fall into intentions of letting her go. With heartbroken teens. However, place, a skeleton key and hidden pressure from the label to make readers looking for G-Rated door reveal Elyse’s true origins. headlines in more ways than one, stories will ind this refreshingly She isn’t just any Grimm, she’s will Panic Station be able to free from sexual scenes and any descended from the Grimms and remain true to what brought them traces of foul language. must assume her rightful place as this far? Or will Angela’s lust for high queen of Ever After. Lori Leger fame cause her to lose what she loves most - Garrett? “The Crimson Cloak” has a truly imaginative premise. Ms. Loraine spins a roller coaster Unfortunately, it needs the help of tale on the journey to the top in a dedicated author/editor team. this dual POV novel. The hero is Riddled with inconsistencies, and smart, witty and lovable, causing overwhelmed with zigzagging the reader to fall in love on page plot elements, a stiff spring one. However, the pressures of cleaning would do wonders. fame drive the heroine to make Single scenes come peppered with one poor decision after another, conlicting descriptions that

131 New Adult severely interrupt the reading experience. Changes in last names, vehicle makes, and clothing descriptions happen within the space of a few paragraphs. Some character bolstering would also be beneicial. With such a unique premise, it’s worth revisiting this story, but more dedication is required to help it achieve its potential. Soia St. Angeles

132 Science Fiction fully leshed-out characters, never do again - open his heart to sharply witty dialogue, and a another woman. nicely plotted story arc. Not one From the opening page to the last paragraph is wasted in this Sci-i this action-packed sci-i tale is a thriller full of action and sexual cargo hold illed to the brim with magnetism. It touches briely on suspense, mystery, and heat. Cat characters from the irst book in and Kerry take center stage and the series and sets the stage nicely steal the show with their easy to for the next book, leaving the relate to personalities and the reader with a heartbreaking, burdensome baggage they tote though satisfying ending, as well through life like a favorite blanket Escapee (Repelling the as the urge to read the rest of this they can’t bear to lose. Their Invasion) series. This reviewer’s best advice evolving opinion of each other is to buckle up and get ready for Edward Hoornaert happens a little too quickly, but the ride of your life! can be forgiven due to the Lori Leger stressful situation they are in. The one law in this otherwise delightful ride is the mysterious villains. Their actions come across SCI-FI: Catteroon “Catt” Sayer has as being too simplistic and petty piloted her airship, Escapee, for for such a distinctive and unique over ten years, together with an race. Instead of invoking goose android named Lancelot. She lies pimply chills of dread and fear the decrepit ship on her regular these individuals are reduced to a route, providing supplies to mundane Monster of the Week troops and others on the feel. Imbuing the villains with unforgiving mining moon of Banff. additional menace and less When Proximanian troops invade crotchety attitude would launch and the moon’s military this story into the stratosphere! population is devastated, she inds a lone survivor - Captain Hector Beloved Enemy, The Destiny Carol Conley Dukelsky, a man she’d formerly Trilogy, #3 nicknamed “Captain A-Hole”, but Hywela Lyn ends up calling “Hank”. Bent on revenge, Hank convinces her to risk their lives and her ship to disable the Proximanian command post on the other side of the planet. Their worst enemy SCI-FI: Cat Kincaid is a freelancer between them and their target is with the Global Union of Earth the planet of Banff, with spewing and Allied Planets, and while volcanoes, harsh terrain, and escaping an attack on her ship, unforgiving air currents. Will she she crash lands her pod on a come to her senses and lee or be distant planet in a sparsely inluenced by their budding populated area of space. Hoping relationship? to ind inhabitants who can help her off this strange world, instead Edward Hoornaert has crafted a she inds Kerry Marchant, the man Sci-i that has it all! There are she holds responsible for the plenty of thrills, chills, heartbreak death of her sister. When and romance between the sassy mysterious enemies compel them “Catt” and sexy “Hank”. The to join forces, Cat has to rethink storyline is complex and so well- everything she’s ever learned developed it plays out like a about Kerry and Kerry does the blockbuster movie, heavy with one thing he swore he would

133 Mystery mayhem—Damien Newbold— feel that the author has more to never appears but his name in full offer than this inoffensive story is on every page and not a which lacks the depth to grab and pronoun. The mystery and pull the reader into the world that whodunit is excellent and not to Clarke creates. Simple and be missed. Ruby and Nate are pleasant, “The Lighthouse Secret” perfect foils for each other, both serves well as lighter fare and healing and growing while trying would do well as pleasant reading to stay alive and solve crimes. in a nice warm bed before sleep. Julie York Gwenellen Tarbet

A Stranger’s House The Lighthouse Secret Clare Chase (Amelia Moore Detective Series Book 7) Linda Weaver Clarke

Ruby has just left her boyfriend of over a decade with not a whole lot more than the clothing on her back. Her best friend has a COZY: Amelia Moore founded the solution: her cousin Nate has a Moore Detective Agency because house-sitting business and just of her talent in solving missing Baked to Death (Cookies & happens to have a new client who person's cases. She shares her Chance Mysteries Book 2) needs someone right now. Nate passion with her employee and isn’t sure that a woman who looks new husband Rick Bonito. When Catherine Bruns like a homeless person is the best Rick reveals his sadness and loss choice, but Steph says she’s ine. regarding the mysterious What none of them realize is the disappearance of his uncle ive owner of the house has set things years ago, Amelia decides they in motion that will eventually need to solve the mystery once Recently divorced Sally Muccio include a body count. and for all. decided to follow her dream of Set in Cambridge, England this “The Lighthouse Secret” is a sweet opening a bakery. Her best friend tale has more twists and turns book that hearkens back to the Josie Sullivan is the head baker than the roads. Ruby might have mysteries of the mid-nineteen and has entered them in a been knocked down a bit by life, ifties and sixties. Amelia and Rick televised baking contest. but she doesn’t sit around and are the perfect couple with a However, before they can begin mope. She works through her perfect marriage. Rick’s family is their trip to the competition, grief in a realistic way while perfect and welcoming to Amelia Sally’s ex-husband Collin, shows dealing with an absent but on every level, supportive of their back up in town. Then he shows creepily controlling homeowner. marriage and their careers. up dead. Sally’s boyfriend, Mike, Nate is also on his own journey, Unfortunately, this does not lead becomes the prime suspect in but tries to forget his past. Told in to a compelling story. The Collin’s murder and Sally can’t the dueling 1st/3rd POV that protagonists in this book are one- stand to not help. Enlisting her readers sometimes don’t like, it dimensional and dificult to relate best friend Josie, Sally sets out to becomes jarring to read because to. The story itself lacks the gritty prove Mike innocent and unveil both POVs are mashed inside each reality needed when examining the true murderer. Can she take chapter. Having to stop and re- the effects of crime on individuals advice from her famous Fortune read multiple times because of the and families. Cookies to save her life and Mike’s large amount of colloquial terms or will she end up crumbling The story reads more like a youth under the pressure? can become tiresome to U.S. novel and would be good in that readers. The owner of the house, genre. Clark’s prose is easy to This charming whodunit will have and starter of all the chaos and read, but the reader can’t help but readers guessing until the end!

134 Mystery New England holds the heart of bizarre revelation: her triplets this cozy modern-day mystery had to be quadruplets as she has which has overt references to the just seen a fourth child. Eric is still previous installment but is clearly mourning his wife but he feels a an original standalone episode. kinship and responsibility to his Sally Muccio has her hands full patient and seeks to ind answers with dough and a noisy family but for her. Alas, all is not calm and yet maintains her independence. peaceful in the small community Readers may question her of Safe Harbor, and every which decision making skills, though, as way Dr. Darcy turns he lands right they tend to land her in hot water. in the middle of the next mystery. Mike appears tough as nails, but Ms. Diamond is known for writing his offense over Sally inding bail within the mystery genre and this money is slightly contrived and book keeps the reader on their may have readers puzzled about toes as to who the culprit could his disappearance. There are a possibly be from start to inish. few slight editing issues but they The cast of characters is do not detract from the reader’s beautifully developed, from the experience. This fast-paced, light- in-laws to the freakish doctor who hearted mystery is full of has a weird obsession with the interwoven subplots, and results lead character. The Abernathy in a quick read. family, who take center stage Jordyn Teel frequently, is a shining example of what reality can be, without going over the top. The Case of the Questionable Quadruplet (Safe Harbor The premise seemed bizarre at irst, but through the plot and the Medical Mysteries: Book story pathways Ms. Diamond One) takes the reader on an adventure. Jacqueline Diamond Some minor continuity errors and editing mistakes pop up causing brief confusion, but in the overall outcome, do not destroy the story. The twists and turns of this particular mystery pose some Dr. Eric Darcy inds himself interesting questions, all of which swimming in the middle of are neatly bundled in the end. mystery and murder after a long- time patient comes to him with a Penelope Anne Bartotto

135 136 Inspirational Stephen will strike the readers’ school, but if Kelly can’t ind the hearts. Both leads are broken money missing from the ranch, people. Kat believes she’s a another of his fantasies will go up monster, never having known in smoke. unconditional love. Stephen lost Readers who prefer light reads the ability to trust God or men, will enjoy this inspirational causing him emotional anguish. romance. Those who pay The inherent angst of this novel attention to detail may ind can’t help but draw in a reader. multiple issues that could have The clifhanger ending may been avoided with a little effort frustrate some readers, but it will and research from the author: Tainted (The Soul Chronicles also compel others to keep characters wearing lannel shirts reading this series, as “Tainted” is Book 1) in Amarillo’s July heat, a 26 year- a successful start to an ongoing old Army tank driver obtaining Morgan L. Busse series. the rank of Major after serving Danielle Hill only four years of full duty, chocolate giving children fevers, and a couple (with a child) getting a divorce in one month. Coupled STEAMPUNK: Kat Bloodmayne with weak, unbelievable instances has lived her life with her father’s of conlict via an old grudge, and a indifference, always feeling few loose strings or lack of follow- inferior to his love and devotion up, readers who seek more to his scientiic endeavors. When polished reads may linch at this she enters the Tower Academy of one. However, it possesses a Sciences as a student, she hopes sweet storyline with an adorable this will change and she will little boy, a deinite arc, and a inally earn his regard, and ind satisfying ending. out the cause of her secret, Lori Leger powerful abilities she views as an Second Chance Ranch unnatural curse that is slowly Liz Isaacson destroying her soul. When she graduates and her power manifests in a devastating way, she becomes a fugitive, turning to Bounty Hunter Stephen Grey. Stephen was once a police oficer Kelly Armstrong is newly engaged to the woman of his divorced and has moved back to dreams, until she betrayed him her hometown of Three Rivers in and destroyed his trust in women the Texas panhandle with her and God. Can Stephen regain his four-year-old son. She applies for faith and ability to see the good in an accountant position at Three Rivers Ranch, and discovers her people, and save Kat from the An Informal Christmas forces hunting her? boss is the younger brother of her best gal pal, Chelsea. Army Major Heather Gray “Tainted” is a steampunk fantasy Squire Ackerman is back home for novel that includes complex good, nursing a damaged leg and world-building, three-dimensional PTSD issues courtesy of the characters, and a strong, military, and a bruised ego thoughtful, emotional courtesy of Kelly. He’s hoping Rylie Durham’s work as a Child undercurrent. The world-building their newly acquired accountant brings to mind both Victorian Life Specialist in a pediatric can straighten out the mess left by hospital is more than a job…it’s science iction and a bit of the their last one and ind a missing gun-slinging Old West. The her life. She feels passionately signiicant sum of money. Squire about the welfare of “her kids” emotional plight of Kat and wants to inish veterinarian

137 Inspirational and their families, and will stop at This heart-achingly sweet, but can be called to help, and that nothing to bring joy into their delightful inspirational novel everyone can make a difference. lives at every turn. She relies on engages from page one! While Rylie’s character grated at irst her faith in God to show her how visiting the heartbreak of children but eventually grew wittier and best to achieve that, even when of all ages ighting for their lives in less caustic towards Zach. With an the business side of hospitals oncology centers in two different original and nicely-developed doesn’t align with the well-being hemispheres, and the families plot, well-rounded characters, and of its patients. When Zach York who love them, the author also clean writing, this is a highly arrives on her loor, bearing gifts, touches on the heroes behind the recommended story for readers she recognizes all the signs of a doctors. One such group is the from ten to one hundred. man in despair. What is he hiding? specialists ighting for crumbs in Lori Leger What’s compelling him to help the distribution of hospital spread a little sunshine to her funding, all in hopes of bringing a young patients? Is it just the need little joy, a few smiles, and to help or is some other desire laughter to sick children. It’s an edging him onward? important reminder that anyone

Other led to an entire remodel of the bathroom, which ended up being a remodel of the entire house and their attitudes towards each other. This is not just an entertaining novel: it also has tips on how to do things around the house, such as creating a neat bead of caulk. There are a plethora of good tips throughout the book. Kirk and The {Re} Model Marriage Jamie are fun to get to know, even The Draig’s Woman Maria Hoagland though in the beginning, they are Lisa Dawn Wadler stressed and upset with one another. They relect on their marriage from the beginning and try to decide when they derailed and instead of focusing on that, WOMEN'S FICTION: Kirk and try to rebuild to make a new life TIME TRAVEL: Claire, a martial Jamie have been married for two for themselves. This is a beautiful arts specialist and accountant by decades, but in recent years they allegorical work that is seldom trade, walks through a door in have neglected their marriage and seen in this day and age. A time to the thirteenth century and it is crumbling from within. They wonderful story illed with into the arms of Ian, the Laird of have set their divorce for the day heartwarming surprises, this is a the Draig Clan. Well…not exactly after their daughter’s high school novel that should not be passed his arms - he’s tied to a tree about graduation, but are keeping it a up! to be layed when she saves his secret from her so as not to taint roguish rear-end. Ian is in need of her senior year. Their house is Belinda Wilson a wife and one has been chosen also crumbling, so they know they for him, soon to join his household have to re-model it before they and save his village with her put it on the market. It all started dowry. When Ian and Claire are with a leak in the bathroom that thrust together, Ian must choose

138 Other between his heart and his people. crew and set out for freedom. At introverted. The fantastical nature As all good rulers know, the needs the exact moment he sails through of their situation forces them to of the many outweigh the needs of the Bermuda triangle in the past, a suspend their disbelief and allow the one, unless treachery is woman in the present named themselves to be open to the cloaked with good intentions. Serena wishes on a star. In calling possibility of a shared future. A “The Draig’s Woman” leads off out to her one true love, great writer makes the reader feel with fast paced steps. There’s no Christophe is pulled through the the emotions of the characters as downtime in this Outlander fan- centuries by a vortex only to wind they're reading the story and Ms. iction novel. Ian is a young Laird up 300 years in the future. Lewis does this remarkably well. who is put into a predicament of According to legend, Christophe Her writing style is inherently marrying for cause vs. love. Claire has just three days to ind his soul romantic and playfully witty. is a strong leading lady, optimistic mate and claim her, before he is Although the story is heartfelt and even when Ian’s responsibilities thrust back through the dynamic, some readers may feel mean tossing her to the curb. maelstrom. While strange slightly cheated by such an abrupt Although it’s a time travel story, circumstances may have brought ending. Be that as it may, this it’s odd Claire doesn’t spend much them together, Fate has given story is so enjoyable one can’t time thinking about returning. them the opportunity of a lifetime. help but be swept away. Looking Those who know Claire is from But can Christophe convince forward to what Ms. Lewis offers the future don’t raise a brow. At Serena that he is her wish come next! one point in the story, she has a true? Chantel Hardge discussion when she learns she’s “Through the Maelstrom” is speaking Gaelic. Wouldn’t she riveting, humorous and sexy! The know what language she’s main characters are delightful. speaking? Aside from plot point Christophe is roguish and dashing, hiccups, the arc and secondary while Serena is shy and characters are extremely well written and this story keeps the reader engaged from beginning to end. Sloane Austen

Through the Maelstrom Rebekah Lewis

TIME TRAVEL/PIRATE: Captured and forced into a life of piracy, Christophe seizes his irst opportunity to escape the pirate

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