Product Description
On the streets of Whitechapel, a man steps from the fog-shrouded shadows, looking for company. The women are always happy to take his coin - just before they take his knife...Darcie Finch has come to the East London brothel as a last, desperate choice. Instead, the madam turns Darcie out into the harsh night with new hope - to seek employment from one who owes her a favour, Dr. Damien Cole - as well as a last warning: have a care. Steer clear of his work and his secrets. He is a man to fear...The Cole residence is a strange place, indeed. Servants disappear. Unsavoury characters call at odd hours of the night. And Darcie has seen the handsome doctor leave his laboratory splattered with blood. Now, Damien has offered her the chance of a lifetime, using her skills as an artist to work beside him. Long hours together soon ignite an unexpected - and irresistible - passion. But the closer Darcie gets to Damien and his secrets, the more she wonders if he is a dedicated, charming healer...or a cold-blooded killer... ... Read more

Customer Reviews (16)

Ripping Yarn
Published in 2005, `Dark Desires' is Eve Silver's first novel. She has since written several more including (at the time of writing this review), two in the name of her alter-ego, Eve Kenin. I have not read any of these subsequent novels, but having just finished the author's assured debut, it's not difficult to see why she has become so popular.

In London's Whitechapel, a maniacal killer is on the loose. All too aware of the danger that could lurk around the next corner, our heroine, Darcie Finch, walks along those same streets. The comfortable life she once knew is no more. Poverty has ground her down to the point where she believes her only hope of survival is in joining the ranks of the oldest profession. However, a shock awaits her when she meets the madam at her chosen house of ill-repute. Rejecting Darcie's desperate job application, the madam helpfully recommends that Darcie would be sure of gaining employment with a certain Dr. Damien Cole. "He is a hard man, a man to fear. Stay out of his way. Stay out of his work. And keep your nose out of his secrets." The madam's warning is still ringing in her ears when Darcie is almost hit by a carriage. Its occupant offers to take her to her new destination. Once ensconced inside the carriage, Darcie realizes that along with its owner, another man occupies the small space. This man is dead.

As openings to romantic novels go, this is a very interesting one. The author ensures the reader is hooked from the novel's opening pages with its air of menace hanging in the fog-damp Whitechapel atmosphere. The writing is of such high quality that one could easily imagine the author turning her hand to more straight-ahead horror and suspense stories.

My criticisms are fairly minor given how much I enjoyed this novel. It's written in the third person, but the whole story revolves around Darcie; it could have been more interesting to have occasionally seen events from other characters' perspectives too. Some of these are quite notable, but unfortunately they are patchily drawn so that the story's resolutions do not hit such a high point as they may otherwise have done. Also, for a novel of this length (just under 350 pages), the denouement seemed a little rushed.

However, if you enjoy gothic romances, then `Dark Desires' is well worth your attention.

WINNER!We have a winner here!
In a word this one is a WINNER!I keep collections, and I noticed this Zebra debut line is a collection.I have the entire one.I read them and loved them - some more than others, and I have to tell you, Ms. Silver can write!This book is such a complete gothic delight that I finished it and looked at the cover in wonder.And then I started reading it again.I read this book twice in one sitting, cover-to-cover.Ms. Silver has put together the perfect blend of shiver-inducing suspense, gorgeous-but-dark hero, and a heroine I'd have given anything to be.I disappeared.That's what I want from a romance.I want to disappear into it.That's why I wasn't going to write a review on any of these debut novels.I love them.All of them.I just find some of them to be extra-ordinary to the point that I'm awed.This is one of them.Give it a read.I dare you.

Wonderful Debut Gothic!
Eve Silver has written a breakout debut novel!
Dark Desires is a wonderful, sensual, thrilling Gothic romance. I'd forgotten how much I love this genre, until I read Eve's book!
It tells the story of a young, destitute woman who almost
falls victim to the murderer prowling the streets of White
chapel. But she escapes, and finds employment with a
handsome, yet strange doctor. The time they spend
together becomes wrought with sexual tension. However,
when she sees him leave his lab covered in blood, she
begins to wonder if perhaps she hadn't gotten so far away
from the killer afterall.
Oohh...I get goosebumps just reading that! This is a
great read to curl under the covers with on some lonely,
stormy night.

Deliciously Dark
I LOVED this novel!! I can't believe the publisher didn't hype this one up. I was guessing up until the very end. Breathless with anticipation, I dissected it in one sitting. (A little anatomist humor.) Fully fleshed characters in tense situations during one of the darkest times. Could you trust a fallen angel in the midst of the Whitechapel murders? This author is pure gold! I am already panting for her next novel which is due in the fall of 2006. If you like a little uncertainty and a frission of fear to color your dark desires, when this book is NOT to be missed! Buy it, Read It Today!

Fantastic Gothic Romance!
I don't remember when I last enjoyed a book this much!Ms. Silver has a genuine gift with words, and I was completely and utterly hooked from the first paragraph.Told in third person, entirely from the heroine's point of view, the book kept me on edge the entire time, eagerly anticipating the happy ending for characters I really came to care about.Excellent sexual tension!All in all, a fabulous read, and I'm eagerly looking forward to Ms. Silver's next book! ... Read more

Product Description
Newly widowed on a rugged frontier, Lissa Banks agrees to a mail-order marriage to save her ranch. But when her groom doesn't show, she is ready to give up hope. Then she spots a man lying on the ground, close to death, who fits the description of her betrothed. Eventually, they marry. But when Jack regains his memory, danger threatens to tear them apart. ... Read more

Product Description
On the death of their beloved father, Caroline Armstrong and her sister are whisked away to London by their grandparents. Though determined to please her doting relatives, there is one thing Caroline vows she will never do: marry. So at her society debut, she decides to use her keen intelligence to keep suitors at bay...Handsome, tall, and titled, Alexander Woodward, Duke of Woodborough, is the catch of the Season - but he doesn't want to be caught. He finds a kindred spirit in the witty Caroline and makes her a scandalous proposition: they will pretend to court to dissuade any overtures of marriage...Caroline thought she would be safe for the Season - and that her deepest secret would remain locked away. But with each minute spent with Alex, she finds herself increasingly enraptured by his charm, his kindness...his kisses. Caught up in a dizzying dance of desire, Caroline accepts another proposal from Alex - one that puts her in the most dangerous position of all... ... Read more

Customer Reviews (28)

Great until you find out the heroine's an idiot!
I don't want to give anything away but I hate it when the hero/heroine spoils a story by pulling an unbelievable and bone-headed stunt.That is the case here.The book had such promise, the first 1/2 to 2/3 of it was a great story that, alone, could have been the whole book.In all that time, the reader is led to believe that the heroine is very intelligent and level headed, until you find out what she pulled.That was so unrealistic to me that I stopped reading it.

Ughh!
The secret of this duchess is that she's a liar.I feel sorry for the hero.If you like your heroines with a bit more integrity, skip this one; otherwise, I'm sure you'll love it.

Excellent read!
Excellent book.I liked this book more than I've liked any of Julia Quinn's books.SHe's a fantastic author and the twist at the end is truly a shocker!!!

Close to a four star novel, hero is great but heroine is too irrational
Secrets of a Duchess is a mixed bag.I immensely liked the hero; he was very romantic and passionate.This story is unique and even though I guessed the secret, I still was uncertain how the leads would respond. The main complaint I have with this novel is the heroine, who was smart but wildly impulsive and at times irrational.

Caroline Armstrong does not want to marry any of the eligible men in the ton regardless of her grandmother's prodding.The Duke of Woodborough Alexander Woodward, claims he does not want to marry anyone either.These two meet at a ball and come to an agreement; they will have a pretend courtship, thereby keeping suitors away from Caroline and fortune hunting debutantes from Alex.

There's a slight problem though, they are both attracted to each other.Alex is captivated by pretty Caroline, she is smart, educated and funny.He cannot help but express his feelings for Caroline through actions and later through words.

Caroline is very attracted to the Duke, who wouldn't be?He is generous, kind and noble minded but she knows she cannot have a permanent relationship with him.She has promised an American she would wait for him after the War Between the States is over.That was two years ago though and Alex is very persuasive.For a smart girl, Caroline makes a lot of foolish choices and they come back to haunt her.

Caroline's secrets are big and could have been dealt with fairly easily but she chooses to ignore them.This proves costly and hurtful to those around her, particularly Alex.To her credit, Caroline takes the blame for her actions and this redeems her a little.

Alex is wonderful though.His emotions and reactions are genuine; he really loves Caroline and knows it almost from the moment they meet.This is refreshing as usually romance heroes don't understand their feelings until the end of a novel.Caroline, on the other hand was uncertain of her feelings.Overall this is a nice read with an interesting and original plot and a terrific hero, if only the heroine acted like the intelligent girl she is supposed to be instead of the irrational woman who jumps into situations without thinking of the consequences, this would be a four or five star novel.

Glad I only paid $3.99
Yikes - what a disaster this book is.It had a lot of potential with an original plot idea (the reason I gave it 2 stars).But, so many things just didn't make sense and didn't ring true.The heroine was supposedly a well-educated and intelligent person, which is what attracted the hero to her, but her actions did not support this characterization at all.She is foolish beyond belief.Neither of the characters is well developed - the author relies on descriptions of them to try to persuade us, but they are not convincing.There is extraneous detail that does not seem credible and doesn't advance the story, e.g. the Duke's home being a Cinderella castle decorated in the fashion of a bordello - what the heck is the purpose of that??Finally, what happens to the heroine at the hands of a female rival is totally unbelievable.Bleah, sorry I spent the time reading it.
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Customer Reviews (3)

Wonderful!
Candace McCarthy succeeds once again in weaving a wonderful tale of love and romance!

Couldn't put it down...
What a treat this book was...I could not put it down until I finished it...then I did not want it to end!This was my first Candace McCarthy novel, but you can be sure I will be looking for her previous works.

Iespecially liked that she based her Native American romance somewhere otherthan the plains...I had begun to wonder if there were any writers out therethat knew about the Woodland's Indians...Thanks!

Another great romance from McCarthy.
Once again, Candace McCarthy delivers an action-packed romance that will keep you reading long past midnight. "Wild Innocense" touched my heart, and it transported me back through time to an early period in ourcountry's growth. This is a book that I will gladlyplace on my "toread again" shelf. Thank you, Miss McCarthy. I can't wait for yournext release. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Sufi wisdom
A collection of Sufi wisdom by a 'Baba' of the Jerrahi Halveti Sufi order.The order itself originates from Turkey and during Ottoman times was followed by large numbers of civil servants of the Ottoman government.The order currently has a large following in Turkey and also in the west, primarily in the United States with a limited following mostly amongst Turkish ex-pats living in Europe.

The book is written in the typical 'teaching form' of Sufi text including Sufi sage wisdom regarding good conduct in daily life, amongst 'fellow dervishes' and towards a 'Sheikh'The book is intended to make the reader reconsider how he/she sees the world and themselves and reflect upon what is beyond the mundane in life.

It is a fascinating book that is worth tracking down even for the curious non-Muslim wishing to know a little more about the spiritual side of the Muslim faith.

BEAUTIFUL BOOK--surely a Classic!
This is one of my favorite books which I have read atleast 10 times. Whenever I feel down I read this book and it teaches me new things each time. This book deals with the (islamic) sufi "code of conduct"and addresses the issue of how we should live every day of our life withmindfullness of Allah, rather than just go through each day mindlessly,like an automaton -- hense the title, "when you hear hoofbeats, thinkof a zebra" (instead of a horse). Shems explains through beautifulsufi stories which will be with you for a long time. I highly recommendthis book to any muslim (with esoteric outlook) looking for inspiration andmeaning of life. ... Read more

Product Description
A parrot has colorful feathers, a crocodile has green, bumpy skin.If Ziggy had those things, would he be special, too? Children will love reading this story about a little zebra that earns his stripes when he realizes the best thing to be is who you are.Bright, bold illustrations and dynamic pop-ups capture and captivate the youngest of readers. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

Great message but not enough pop-ups!
A valuable message to teach children and adults too to feel proud just being who they are. However, the message is not completely obvious or emphasized. The writing can be more thought out. Creative though. The illustrations are colorful and well done. But, the pop-ups are not enough. Only 5 of them (crocodile, snake, giraffe, parrot and zebra). I wish the bookcould have more. I feel slightly disappointed and misled because the book says "a one-of-a-kind pop-up book". So, I expected a great number of interesting pop-ups. I guess I misunderstood. The paper engineering of them is great though.

It's a keeper!
I was doubtful that our five month old son was ready for a real pop-up book with full sentences (rather than just a word or two a page).Boy was I wrong!Not only is each page jam packed with bursting colors and beautiful illustrations, the animals that pop out of each page are so captivating that even our five month old gets immersed into Ziggy's world--and stays interested in each page long enough to hear the story behind the pictures.It's not a long story, but every time we open the book together, he seems drawn to it anew.I have a feeling we'll enjoy revisiting Ziggy and his zoo friends for many years to come.

Great Book With GreatMessage
This is a lovely book. Well designed for little hands and perfect for getting across an important message...be yourself. With rhyming, colors and fun interactive design it is just right for babies up to preschool age. My kids love this book and I have purchased some as gifts for other kids as well (a gift that the parent and child both appreciate). Keep books like these coming...beautiful illustrations too!

Ziggy is Fabulous!
This pop-up book is truly "one of a kind"! Ziggy is very popular in our home. The book is superbly written and boldly illustrated. The story and the pop-up illustrations captivate my one year old daughter like no other book out there right now (and we have many!). Also, content aside, the craftsmanship of the book is superior to other pop-up's, as this one withstands the tugging of a toddler extremely well.

Colorful Pop-up Book About Ziggy the Zebra's Stripes
This book is a great joy for children, adults and teachers.It is the story about Ziggy trying to find his stripes.He goes to his friends in the area, who are pop-out characters found on each page.The friends are colorful and great ways to learn animals and what they look like.Does Ziggy find his stripes? Do his friends join him in the search? ... Read more

Product Description
In the rugged Scottish Highlands, a mighty clansman weds a headstrong heiress against her will - and discovers a fiery passion he'll risk his life to protect...Payton Dunn-Fadden is the King's Champion, notorious for his ability to fight any man and win. With steely eyes and a deeply-muscled physique, his powers of seduction are just as legendary. But Payton has a dark secret known only to his wife - and it's a secret she may not keep...Known as White Satin, Dallis Caruth is infuriated by her forced marriage to Payton. The brute is far below her station...which makes her attraction to him utterly maddening. Now Dallis is determined to tame the fearsome laird - and win her freedom in the bargain...As Payton and Dallis spar with one another, their desire ignites into fiery lovemaking. But danger is closer than either realizes. For the king has plans for the couple - plans that may unravel Payton's secret - and cost them both their lives... ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

Another Great Book
Jackie Ivie's Knight in White Satin is a must read for those that enjoy historical romance. This is one of her best novels to date. It's funny with lots of conflict. Ms. Ivie is an expert with Scot. history and that fact shines through with the feel and ambiance of the time.

Classic Ivie
As usual, Jackie's energy and sparkling personality translate into a wonderful tale of love in the Highlands.Her heroes never disappoint.

I must have missed something
WARNING MY REVIEW WILL CONTAIN SPOILERS!!!! LOTS AND LOTS OF SPOILERS!!!!

First off this is my first review so bear with me. Also, I don't care much for exact spelling, punctuation, grammar, etc, so my review with probably have plenty of it.

Where to start? For me the book just had so many problems. I guess I will start by telling what the problems are with each of the characters. First is the main guy Payton Dunn-Fadden. For a man set in these times he is pretty typical. The thing that irked me about him is his lack of intelligence and control. 70% of the book stems of off one major mistake that this guy make. And I am not talking about when he forced Dallis to marry him. Near the beginning of the book a guy from the Kilchurning clan comes to the castle to reclaim his former fiance. So when he shows up Payton runs at him in a rage and is beating the crap out of him while Kilchurning's men are beating on Payton. Payton is beating to within an inch of his life. My god how stupid is this guy? If he had used his little brain and thought to bring a weapon with him and kill the guy the rest of the long and complicated journey they went on would not have been needed.

Now for Dallis. I don't understand what see was thinking for most of the book. She hates Payton for what he has done and send me to kill him. But whenever Payton is around her she feels strong feelings for him. And this is what puzzled me. The two main characters never did anything to make the other fall in love with them. For the first half of the book they are mean, spiteful, rude, and uncaring to each other. The only thing they did have was good sex and that was it. And then half way through the book the author must have just decided to screw all the rules and make them love each other for no good reason. Now that they are in love we have to make some problems for them. Lets use the good old device of making one of the main characters screw up big time and then try really hard to hide it only the have somebody else reveal it to the other later. Always makes for a good time.

The other person I just have to bash on is the king. I don't think I have read a more stupid, greedy, ass of a king before. Kilchurning runs to the king later in the book and tells him the baby Dallis is carrying is his so that he can gain control of the castle. When Payton shows up and tells the king that the man lies the king says that kilchurning said that Payton would show up and lie about the child. And lets point out that Payton has been the kings champion for years and that Dallis is Payton's wife. But the king does not care about that so the only way to fine out who is telling the truth is to have Dallis stay at his castle for the next four months of her pregnancy so that they can verify who the father really is. And a month before the baby is due the king comes out and say the Kilchurning admitted the lie and that he pardoned him too and sent him on his way. That was it, Kilchurning got off scott free and the king kept them there just to have some fun with them and make some more money off of Payton. Man, what a great guy.

I must have missed something based on what the other reviewers said. Maybe I lost some chapter or my kindle has a glitch. From what I read the book was for the most part disjointed, stupid, and unnecessary. The only reason it got two stars was for the rare times that it was good and trust me when I say they are rare and the secondary characters. If what I have written doesn't sound like a good book to you then don't waste your money. But then again it could be just me and that I missed what the others saw but I doubt it.

The King's Champion Meets His Match.
It's a rough start between Payton Dunn-Fadden, the King's Champion, and Dallis Caruth, also known as White Satin, two very hard headed, strong-willed individuals.Payton conquered the Caruth castle, and wedded the lovely heiress in a convenient though clergy-less ceremony. Payton then moved to consummate the marriage, but this doesn't quite happen--she stabs him in the side with her jeweled lady's dagger and her kin arrive just in time to see Payton jump out the window and into the loch. Everyone sees Payton'sblood on Dallis, and believes the marriage to have been consummated.

So starts Dallis' plans for revenge against her "husband" and her future happy widowhood.

Payton's behavior at the start seem to be realistic for the times. Both hero and heroine commit actions they later regret as they live out the consequences of their choices. Love and passion burns between two despite everything they've done to each other.

I love the accurate historical details in Jackie Ivie's books.

Jackie Ivey is a writer who captures the passion of romance in a book
There is love so strong and powerful that it can withstand any pain and suffering brought onto it.This type of love is not always a love match at first but when you have your heart captured by it there is no letting go of it.

The heiress, Dallis Caruth was part of the Caruth clan that had been at war with the Dunn-Fadden's since the beginning of time.But now that Payton Dunn-Fadden has conquered her castle there is nothing to stop Payton from claiming the prize he feels he won which includes Dallis.Now Dallis on the other hand is not quite so giddy with love toward Payton and while their wedding night lights up the sky with passion Dallis does not mind that Payton has to be away for awhile to finish his conquering career and hold on to the title of King's Champion.

But three years away from his wife was a moment too long and once Payton returns his objective was to beget an heir not fall in love with his very conniving wife.Dallis has worked hard to get away from this marriage she feels is a sham but once Payton returns and the time they spend together does not push them apart but instead draws them closer to one another.Love was the last thing she thought to have with this man but love is indeed what she is feeling along with so much desire it is frightening.

Payton has more traveling to do before they settle in their home and he takes Dallis along on the journey.It is one filled with wicked widows, temperamental Kings and jealous suitors all possessing greed and jealousy with a bit of falsehood and lies thrown in for good measure.Dallis fights for the relationship she swore she did not want and does her best under the worst of conditions to keep Payton safe and warmly wrapped up in the arms she is extending out to him.
... Read more

Product Description
Daughter of a high priestess of the bloodline of Mary Magdalene, Deidre of the Languedoc sets out in search of the Philosopher's Stone which an old magician stole from its shrine, leaving in its place a book about some place called Camelot.She is duty-bound to find the Stone, but her woman's heart hopes to find one of those noble knights as well. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (11)

It was okay
I'll skip the summary and share what I liked and didn't like about the story.It started out interesting. Deidres quest for the Philosoper's Stone and the references to the Holy Grail and King Author.The author did a good job of weaving her story with the legends from the begining to the end of the story.

The problems that I had with the story was that the relationship between Deidre and Gilead was overshadowed by his fathers story.Sometimes their romance seemed to take a back seat to Augus(Gileads father) and his lady love Formorian.Also the book was set during a period of time I normally don't enjoy and this book reminded me why I ususally avoid this time period.There is so much history and things happening and the author has to be careful not to turn a romance novel into a dry history book but at the same time give the reader enough background info. of the setting. The clan issues and threats of war distracted form the romance.Over and over the same talk of clan wars and foregin invasions.Also I had enough of hearing that women were something to be traded and even killed by her husband whenever he wanted.These same two issues went on and on throughout the book.

So much was going on that Deidre and Gilead were lost in the story. It was hard to believe that they feel in love when they never spent anytime together or really had meaningful converstion. I believe that they were in lust not love form the beginning until the end of the story.

Couldn't finish it....
I really tried to maintain interest in this book, but it lost me. My biggest complaint was that it was repetitive and lost its momentum about halfway through. I began to get so annoyed with the characters, and soon felt that our hero and heroine were acting like a couple of young idiots in love. Annoying! The sexual scenes didn't have the build-up of chemistry to make them interesting, and some of the erotic wording used seemed a bit sophomoric. Some character's behavior seemed to be very out of character at times. The plot kept getting lost in all the repetitive fuss and characters' interior reflections (once again, repetitive). It seemed like every 5 minutes our heroine was either nearly getting raped or being manhandled by her fiance. Then the rest of the time were her thwarted attempts to escape, repeatedly (have you noticed I found a lot of repetition? NOW I'm repeating myself!). And the constant poisoning or attacks-upon Angus' wife were ludicrous. Ugh!

I didn't even care enough about the quest or about the HEA to finish the book. Very disappointing because the story did sound like it would be a good one.

Terrible Book
I can only guess the few prior reviewers were friends and family. This is the first book I paged ahead to the end halfway through the story. I just had to do my part to remove a five star rating on such dribble.

Winding Trail to a Happily-Ever-After
I love the numerous, unique twists and turns throughout the story that lead the characters to a happy ending.The distant links to the Arthurian legend lend a bit of mystique to the author's believable medieval tale.I found myself rooting for the gutsy heroine throughout the story.If you like historical, Scottish romance stories, this one is a must-read!

4-4.5 RATING FOR ME
I am glad I read this book. I really enjoyed the characters. The authors descriptions brought them to life. The plot, mystery was very good but there was just something about the whole Philosophers Stone/The Book, etc thing that I couldn't really get into. I really wanted her to visit the grandmother at the Forest and the Black Lake. I think a visit there might have really been interesting and helped with a part of the story.Well, I would recommend this story if you like historical romance with alot of sexy scenes, strong characters and a good mystery. I just think the story could have been even better. I hope this helps? ... Read more

Product Description
Rescued from the doomed Titanic moments before its sinking, stewardess Marjorie McTavish is determined to find happiness at last. The dear friends who stood by her on that fateful night have vowed to help her now, and Marjorie, ever hopeful, accompanies them to the bustling port of San Francisco to begin all over again, far from the gloomy slums of Glasgow. Anything is possible in America, it seems - especially romance...Dr. Jason Abernathy, dashing man about town, is beguiled by Marjorie's soft brogue and fresh charm. He has no way of knowing how much his gallantry delights her - or that his kindness to the less fortunate has already melted her heart. If the shy lass from Scotland would just say yes, he would consider himself the luckiest man on earth... ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

A Perfect Wedding
Marjorie MacTavish might like to strangle the person who sang My Heart Will Go On. When the Titanic sank, it took the love of her life with it. In the time since, she has seen her two dearest friends find love, but she has remained alone, preferring the memory of love to the risk of new love. Dr. Jason Abernathy can empathize. His young wife died not too long ago, taking his heart with her to Heaven, or so he thinks until something begins to change in his friendship with Marjorie. Working together to help the Chinese of San Francisco and performing in the Pirates of Penzance begins to open their eyes to the love neither is sure they are ready for, but both need. Yet, the road ahead is not completely smooth for their love.


Supported by characters from the prior books and set amid a rich culture, Ms. Robbins concludes her trilogy on a bright note. Warm humor pervades this story of new beginnings and hope. As usual, Loretta threatens to steal the show with her vibrant nature, but that is enjoyable.

Smoothly done.
In April of 1912, Marjorie MacTavish was one of the few survivors when the mighty "Titanic" went down. Leonard, her fiancée, went down with it. Marjorie believed her heart died with Leonard that tragic night. The only good thing about that cruise was that she met Loretta.

It is now September, 1915. Marjorie may have been born in Glasgow and had poverty-stricken beginnings, but now she lives in San Francisco. Marjorie is the companion and secretary of Loretta Quarles. (A nine month, pregnant with twins, very outspoken, and wonderful friend.) The only draw back is that Loretta has a childhood chum named Jason. Though Loretta calls him "my friend", Marjorie calls him "the bane of my existence". But that is about to change.

Though he has teased her for three years, Dr. Jason Abernathy is charmed by Marjorie and her soft brogue. When he learns she is in the cast of a local church's opera, he immediately joins as well. And when Lo Sing, his nursing assistant, needs the doctor to help the wounded in Chinatown after a tong war, Marjorie offers her pair of hands as well. Marjorie could not possibly know that she was about to enter the mess surrounding the Chinese Exclusion Act, a tong war, or a certain doctor's heart.

**** Author Anne Robins (A.K.A. Alice Duncan) has another winner in this interesting tale set within San Francisco and its famous Chinatown. There is plenty of romance and suspense to keep you reading until the very end. As you read you will find out much about women's suffrage and the Chinese Exclusion Act. However, Anne Robins has blended it well into the story and you probably will not even realize you are learning something! Smoothly done indeed. ****

Reviewed by Detra Fitch of Huntress Reviews.

fine early twentieth century Americana tale
In 1912 Marjorie MacTavish leaves Glasgow, Scotland to catch the maiden voyage of the Titanic accompanied by her fiancé.On board Marjorie befriends Loretta Quarles.Although Marjorie and Loretta survive the sinking of the Titanic, the former's fiancé dies in the tragedy.

In 1915 Marjorie resides in San Francisco where she works as secretary and personal companion to Loretta.She enjoys her work for her outspoken friend, a champion of women's suffragette, but feels Loretta's childhood friend Dr. Jason Abernathy is a nuisance and the bane of her existence.Jason enjoys teasing Marjorie, who he would like to see on a social basis, but she rejects his minor advances.He even joins the church choir to be near her.When his nursing assistant Lo Sing informs him that a tong war in Chinatown has injured many people, Jason and Marjorie go to help.As she sees a different side of the doctor, Marjorie begins to fall in love, not knowing she already owns Jason's heart.

In her third "perfect" historical romance (see A PERFECT STRANGER and A PERFECT ROMANCE), Anne Robins provides a terrific tale that enables the audience to get a close look at San Francisco just prior to the United States entering WWI.Especially intriguing is Chinatown and the treatment of Chinese including specific prejudicial racial laws aimed at control of the Asian immigrant population.The romance between the lead couple is charmingly presented even when the duo works as a team providing medical care to Chinese victims of the tong war and other racially motivated incidents.A PERFECT WEDDING is a fine early twentieth century Americana tale.

Harriet Klausner
... Read more

Product Description

Casey Gilmore is determined to make this particular Christmas merry and bright. . . somehow. First things first. Her dad has to come home--and Flint McAllister has to leave. Having him take over the Anchor Bar was never her idea. Thrown by a horse, on the injured list for months, her dad insisted that Flint manage the family ranch and Casey had to give in. But from the very first day, she let Flint know that anything he could do, she could do better. Then he decided to charm her right out of her cowboy boots and love her up and--wow, he was good at it. But Casey can't give in and let him win just because she's feeling sentimental about the holidays...

"Dailey's charming Christmas tale sparkles with romance. . .the perfect holiday read."--Romantic Times on Eve's Christmas

"A good old-fashioned Christmas gift."--Publishers Weekly on Happy Holidays ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Updated fiasco
This rework of a 1980 Harlequin is disjointed, lacks any real character development, and lacks basic writing principles at times.Thankfully, I spent no money on this example of how sadly an author can deteriorate or can stoop trying to make a buck, but it definitely is a waste of time. I only completed it because she wrote some decent stories back when the original was first released and I kept hoping it would finally show some glimmer of quality.

Awful
Plotless, no character development, no continuity, ridiculous work of dribble.Oh yeah a waste of money too.Check it out of the public library if you must read it. ... Read more

Product Description
Book two in the Wishing For Love series.When Major Aubrey Kellands becomes the fifth Earl of Daventry, he returns from the Peninsula to the ancestral home he has not seen in eleven years. He finds both household and estate in complete chaos and decides he needs a sensible wife to help him restore order. His whimsical wish on a star brings Xanthe-his fairy godmother-and her cat Titus. Xanthe announces she will hold a house party over Christmas at his home, thus granting him the opportunity to find the wife he truly needs.Miss Desdemona Lynton is lively and mischievous-the exact opposite of the wife Daventry seeks. Her humor-and her relentless pursuit of housebreakers who plague the neighborhood-enthrall him despite his best efforts to ignore her. His heart and his head are in deep conflict, and only Xanthe-s magical humming can help him discover that what he really needs-and wants-is love. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Great Read
Originally posted at: [...]

Daventry is ready to settle for a practical wife, lucky for him his fairy godmother knows best!

Major Aubrey Kellands, Fifth Earl of Daventry has been away from home and in the military for the last eleven years. His return to Kelland Court is met with an overwhelming reality check in the form of dilapidated buildings, neglected fields and a severe shortage of capable staff. Not to mention the stent of home invasion and robbery that had been hitting the surrounding area.

With two young step-sisters to care for and a house in bad need of proper managing, Daventry comes to the conclusion that what he really needs is a wife. A wish upon a star and a burst of smoke and feathers later, in pops Xanthia, his fairy godmother. What follows is fun, a little danger and pure Regency romance.

From the pen of Regency romance writer extraordinaire, Janice Bennett, comes a tale of magic, mystery, and a little bit of mayhem. Daventry is the stoic military man that has forgotten how to laugh in the face of chaos and enjoy life.

Desdimona "Desdi" Lynton is all that is "light and life". Chaos seems to follow her wherever she goes.

I found myself laughing out loud at the scrapes that Desdi tended to get herself into. She was such a fun character. Unfortunately for Desdi, Daventry saw her as hoydenish, irresponsible and completely unfit to help raise his younger sisters. I was pleased but not surprised to see that he eventually came to the conclusion that he couldn't live with Desdi and her chaos. Some might say I just spoiled the book but this is a true romance. There can be no other ending than a perfect and sweet happily ever after.

Ms. Bennett stays true to form by adding secondary characters that have their own heartwarming stories as well as an exciting subplot that keeps the story moving smoothly to a satisfying conclusion. This reviewer was pleased to note that Ms. Bennett left a beautiful opening for a continuation of Xanthia's wish fulfilling adventures with her many god-children.

Touch of whimsy
This is one of three books written by Janice Bennett that encounter one of the most delightful characters........Lady Xanthe Simms.Lady Xanthe is no ordinary woman......she's a bonafide Fairy Godmother, and she provides"opportunities" for her charges to find love.Lady Xanthe usesher fairy powers to making others believe she's one of their closestfriends, so all of the haut ton will admit Lady Xanthe and her charges toall the best events.

Follow Lady Xanthe through her whimsical ways, asshe conjures up imaginary creatures to amuse herself in the middle of ballsand routs.Her trademark is an almost invislble feather tipped with gold. Usually, her "godchild" is the only one who can see these as wellas her fantasy objects.I've read "The Candlelight Wish","The Starlight Wish", and "The Moonlight Wish".Theyare all lots of fun to read.

silly but cheerful and with a certain charm
You have to be willing to swallow a fairy godmother to like this one. Oddly, since I do not like magic as a plot device, I fond the fairygodmother rather charming.It was the fact that all of the other charatersbehaved like complete imbecils that was off-putting.Ms. Bennett is asmooth writer, she moves the plot along like clock-work, so very much likeclock-work, in fact, that the characters appear to be well-oiled automatonsgoing through the motions of falling in love with all the emotion ofmechanical dolls. ... Read more

Product Description
Marcus Reese, Duke of Essex, has spent most of his life pulling his twin brother out of trouble. An occasional thank you would suffice; instead, his resentful sibling forges his name to a marriage license and presents him with an unwanted wife. She's a vicar's window with a mind of her own who may be the first person in Marcus's well-ordered life to make him feel...completely out of control. Hannah can't help but curse her own idiocy. Dire straits have led her to the altar with a gentleman she hardly knows. Played for a fool, she's embarrassed, furious, and worse, married to an equally outraged stranger - an exasperating man who unleashes all manner of emotions in Hannah, not to mention unwanted desire. Reluctantly, she agrees to play the wife until he can sort out the mess. But the nearness of the undeniably attractive Duke and the passion in his black eyes unsettles her well-guarded heart - making her want to do so much more than "act" the role of blissful bride... ... Read more

Customer Reviews (24)

Very Enjoyable Read!
I really liked these characters!Marcus strongly reminded me of Mr. Darcy (probably no accident).I liked the build-up of the relationship.I loved it when they finally connected -- it was like a dam burst!Wow!The only reason I didn't give it five stars was because the plot was a little convoluted and improbable.However, I will give the author credit for creating a new twist on the marriage of convenience theme.Good book!

thoroughly enjoyable
Great plot, interesting characters, and lovable heroine.the only thing I found irritating was waiting for the duke of exeter to finally make a move on Hannah.it took forever, but when they finally did get together it was well worth the wait.
A well written novel, and definitely looking forward to reading more from Caroline Linden.

A big, dull, boring.... YAWN!!!
This is just your typical bland, hand it on a platter, feed it to the readers... romance novel. All the 5 star ratings are a surprise and a bit suspect. Did the author's friends write the reviews or does the publisher do that? I bought the book on sale, which should have warned me.

I've read much better books. The counterfeit ring is forced into the story. The romance is luke warm and the sex dull. The heroine has a bit of spark and I did like how the author made the Duke really act like one, but the story dragged with simplistic sentences and dialog. It starts off well enough and becomes your typical bland romance read. There is nothing here you have not read before, if you are used to reading romance novel. It bored me to tears and there are better books to read. I can't even say it's a good beach read. It's dull... a totally dull read.

I didn't find it romantic at all. There is no spark between the characters. The Duke doesn't care to know her daughter. He just didn't do it for me, as a hero, at all... and the ending is so forced. There are no real emotions in this book that are believable. The idea that his wastrel brother wanted to marry her would have been the better story! There is no real suspense or any real seducing to make your toes curl. It's not the worst I've read either. It is however, a big dull boring... yawn.

New FAN!
I just discovered Ms. Linden and can't wait to read future books! I really love that the characters' relationship does not go from 0 to 60 in 1.3 seconds. There is a logical and methodical progression that really makes sense for the development of the story. Nothing is gratuitous or exaggerated. There may be those who really like a faster pace but I am not one of them. If you're like me and like to see a little more plausibility then you will LOVE this author.
Since others have already gone over plot lines I don't feel the need to further do so.

Adding to the masses
I loved this book! It had a terrific balance between the man's feelings and the woman's feelings. I hate when a book is all one sided (often the womans side). I love a man that is yearning for the woman just as much, if not more, than the woman yearns for him. Or when the man falls in love first. This book delivers just that and I thought it was great. In addition there was a good story to it, fairly plausible for it being a romance, with a little bit of danger.

Definitely passionate and romantic-a great read all around, in my humble opinion. ... Read more

Product Description
Beautiful, fiery Scotswoman Maddy Sinclair held one man responsible for the scandal and tragedy that ruined her family: Viscount Deveryn. The unrepentant rogue known as The Fallen Angel was a scoundrel and cad with a heart as cold as ice. But when Maddy fell blindly into his powerful embrace, she was unaware the man who kissed her so skilfully was her sworn enemy - until it was too late. Though her heart may be lost, her will to foil Deveryn's scheme to steal her legacy is stronger than ever. Deveryn, whose reputation with the ton's ladies left no doubt that he cared little for true love, certainly hadn't come looking for it in Inverness, Scotland. He had his sights on Maddy's castle and her tempting beauty - but not her affections. That changed as he found himself challenged by her wit, her guile, and her ability to turn the tables on his best laid plans, offering him a lesson in seduction that proved heaven does indeed exist on earth - and that perhaps only one thing can redeem a fallen angel. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (8)

not worth the reading
this book isn't BAD, and the writing is well done, and it won't bore you, but it just isn't worth the time it takes to read it.Maddie is a likable character, if a little unsensible at times.However, it's Deveryn that ruined the book for me.It seemed to me that allhe had going for him was his looks and the fact that he fell in love with Maddie at first sight.But he's unlikable as a romantic hero in many ways...he threatens to beat Maddie several times during the book, is not forthcoming with her, and seems to take perverse pleasure in forcing himself on her even when she says "No".Their first sexual encounter is pretty disturbing...while not being actual rape, it makes you uncomfortable and is far from being a pleasant scene.Even in later love scenes he exerts his will upon her.There wasn't really any redeeming qualities given to him to have the reader really feel like Maddie and Jason are a good match and love each other.It seems that the only thing holding them together is sexual attraction.

also a few other points..what on earth happened to Malcolm? he figured predominantly in the beginning part of the book, then he is forgotten about by the author.He could have played an interesting part in this story.

Also sometimes the writing style can be confusing.Thornton deliberately does not write about scenes that we may have liked to read about (Maddie's aunt's engagement to the Duke, Jason's visiting the whorehouse with Oxford pals).We hear about these things 2nd hand from other characters in their dialogue.

Also, i found that the whole device about Madea wasn't really used to to its full extent, and Maddie's pregnancy was reduntant to the plot.

This book was not an unpleasant read but it wasn't really that good, either.

This book is hot!
Well, I found this book to be terribly sexy. It had a lot of the elements that erotic romance novel authors are using so well in their novels. Emma Holly's historicals are similar with more explicit sex scenes. This book was a total fantasy and the alpha male hero was a womanizing, unapologetic jerk, but I still found this to be exciting. The fantasy of having a man want you so powerfully that he can't help himself is very thrilling to some women. Winning a man over stiff competition like the heroine's stepmama is also an exciting fantasy to some women.
I like Ms Thornton's other novels as well, she has the ability to write in many styles, but I find this book, and To Love An Earl to be the most erotic novels she has written so far. I know that this is not everyones cup of tea and I respect that.

Elizabeth does it again
I am not fond of writing online reviews as it takes too much time and thought to come up with anything worth "penning". Elizabeth is my favorite romance author, she appeals to a niche group, she is also not for the faint-hearted. Read Cherished, To Love an Earl aka The Passionate Prude, Highland Fire, etc. You will quickly see a pattern; the men are libertines, the women are prudes although passionate by nature, and confusion and conflict runs wild in her stories (as do all but her writing is superior to your average romance writer). If forced seduction is not your cup of tea, don't even touch her books, as I've said, this is not for the faint-hearted. And if you want to read books that are pc, then you need to go somewhere else. This is fantasy and fantasy is not about reality, it is about taking the good parts of reality without the bad parts, therefore, you can be "forced" to say yes to seduction without really being "forced", get my drift? In modern day, most men will not "forcefully seduce" a woman, the line is very clearly and finely drawn. A no is a no, but that is because nowadays women are not "sexually oppressed". Imagine being told all your life sex is wrong, it will probably be hard for you to say "Take me" when you are morally bound to be prudish. So now you understand why "forced seduction" is not only "NOT RAPE" but its existence is imperative to drive the two historical h/h to the present day age of sexual liberation. So enjoy Deveryn and Maddy! They are really fun to read.

Try another Thornton book, but not this one
Although, I have enjoyed some of Ms. Thornton'sother works (i.e. Perfect Princess), I wish I had never read this one.It is true that it is well written, but as another reviewer pointed out, the hero of the story is ridiculously chauvinistic and nearly rapes the heroine.As a matter of fact, Deveryn thinks the word "rape" to himself regarding the encounter.Forgetting that disturbing passage, I never could figure out why these two people would ever be drawn to each other.They spend the entire book arguing with each other and saying unforgivable things.Love at first sight would not explain any endurance of their attraction.Maddy, who is supposed to be a smart "bluestocking", employs all the logic of a gnat throughout the story.Deveryn never until the last few pages of the book considers Maddy's feelings or looks at things from her perspective.Instead, he keeps forcing sexual encounters on her, which she always gives into.Then following such an encounter, they have a stupid argument.The plot repetitively continues thus until everything is resolved in an unbelievably neat fashion (which literally only happens in the last 3 pages, and without much discussion between the two lovers).Ms. Thornton's good writing technique cannot save this terrible story.

Left a bad taste in my mouth
Sorry, but I just did not like this book.The plot was good and technically it was well written, but I could not stand the characters.The book was first published in 1989 and I guess "acceptable behavior" for a romance novel character has changed greatly over the last 15+ years.

For example, the hero Deveryn practically rapes Maddie, the heroine, early in the book and then blames the poor girl for his loss of control.She made him "angry."Ha.

I found Deveryn's character to be cruel and gratingly chauvinistic.He treats Maddy like a child: he ignores everything she says, repeatedly sends her to bed without any supper (even though they are staying in her house where she is supposedly in change), and he makes her eat porridge even though he has been told it makes her sick.To me Deveryn should have been cast as the villain of the story and not the hero.

In the beginning of the book I sympathized greatly with Maddy.She wanted Deveryn to pay for what he had done to the father.(Early in the book you find that Deveryn slept with Maddy's stepmother and when Maddy's father found out he got drunk, gambled away everything he owned (to Deveryn no less), and retuned home a penniless disgrace.)I wanted Maddy to avenge her father.I wanted her to find a big stick and take Deveryn down a peg or two or twenty.But Maddy turned out to be a wimp.She talked a lot about revenge but at every turn she meekly accepted Deveryn's dictates.I wanted to slap the girl silly.Finally I just threw the book in the garbage. ... Read more

Product Description
A dancer travelling with her young daughter in steerage class on the Titanic is put in the ship's last life-boat by a kind gentleman. He saves her life... and steals her heart. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Very enjoyable...
Titanic ended with the ship's demise, but for those who survived it was only the beginning. Isabel Golightly and her daughter, Eunice were fortunate enough to be rescued by a handsome stranger as the ship descended into the icy waters; but they were left with the lingering fear that the kind man who helped them was lost at sea. To Isabel's relief, they meet him again in San Francisco months later. Somerset Fitzroy indeed escaped, and is glad to meet the Golightlys again. With fellow survivors they are setting out on a new life, though not without difficulty.

Isabel had only worked as a char woman, but that career has little future. Her new benefactress and friend, Loretta, has greater dreams for her, much to Isabel's dismay. Soon, she finds herself dancing with strangers and using all kinds of modern things like telephones and riding in cars. Eunice takes to the new world with glee, reading everything her six year old hands can get. Somerset is an ever present temptation and challenge to Isabel. She is willing to have him as a friend, but he offers more. Is it only out of niceness, or love, that he proposes?

*** Colorful language and in well researched details add depth to this historical "debut". Watch as the women's movement begins to form with the wearing of comfortable cloths and see how what we take for granted is new to those who first used modern marvels. Against the backdrop of stiff Victorian mannerisms, new love blooms. Particularly enjoyable is all the Scottish dialect. (...)

engaging historical romance
In 1912, panic is rampant as the mighty Titanic begins sinking into the sea.Wealthy American Loretta Linden tries to help Isabel Golightly and her six-year-old daughter Eunice gets into a lifeboat, but it took a handsome stranger to get the females safely off the doomed vessel.The three women manage to reach New York while the casualty list grows everyday and the dead exceeds the available coffins.Isobel wonders if that kind stranger died rescuing others.

Miss Linden takes Isabel and Eunice to San Francisco with her when they meet their rescuer Somerset Fitzroy.As Isabel struggles to adapt to the modern American world that her kind patron provides for her, the precocious and intelligent Eunice loves the new environs.Meanwhile Somerset begins courting Isabel, but she wants him to remain a friend while he wants a family with her, her daughter, and future Fitzroys.

This engaging historical romance provides insight to readers at a momentous time when the suffragette's movement is taken hold with simple changes in women's lifestyle.Readers will get a taste of a technological boom with new gizmos like telephones and cars, etc changing the way people communicate and relate.The characters are well written as the difference between mother and daughter show the generational chasm.Although the romance is fun to follow that plot takes a back seat to the marvel of pre World War I America.

Harriet Klausner ... Read more

Product Description
Intended for the general reader as well as specialists, this book presents a fascinating new theory that posits three major brain types created by sex hormones before birth--Polytropic, Middle, and Focal. A brief scientific background is given first, and then the theory is illustrated with vivid anecdotes about real cases. The author argues persuasively (and sometimes startlingly) that brain types influence many human traits and differences, such as personality, special skills, learning disabilities, and a whole host of medical conditions. This unique approach promises new (and practical) insights into such puzzling issues as hyperactivity, autism, nicotine addiction, cancer, Alzheimer's disease, and dyslexia. Read this book to find out which kind of "zebra brain" you have and discover unique insights into you and everyone you know. ... Read more

Product Description
Mason Witt, a skateboarding American teenager catapults himself into the greatest adventure of his life after reading the plight of a new Cyber Writer from Africa. Lutalo knew he would come so he sent Mason an urgent plea for help. His village has lost its precious Zebra of Life and his father has gone missing in the pursuit of the evil men who stole it. Here begins this thrilling adventure of two boys, a smart- talking panther, and an amazing zebra that sustains life. Come and join Mason and Lutalo on this fantasy adventure ... follow the arrow. This fantasy adventure guarantees to delight and entertain young readers as they take an incredible journey through the heart of Africa and learn about courage, family, friendship, trust and loyalty. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

***** Review by Daniel Dietz from BK Walker Books - LOVED IT
Reviewed by Daniel Dietz

Mason Witt is an average kid who loves skateboarding.He had been grounded for a week for riding his skateboard in the neighbors empty pool,and today was his first day of freedom.He was anxious to get off the bus to ride his board.

When he got home his mother made him his favorite snack of apples and peanut butter,so he ate quickly to be able to ride his board before they had to run errands.Before going to play,he ran to his room to put his backpack away and checked his email.

Being a pen pal on Cyber Writers,he found an email from Africa.Before he was able to read it,his mother yelled that they had to leave sooner than anticipated so they could get his brother Jamie at Karate,then go get hair cuts.

While getting their hair cuts Mason was so excited to get that email he asked the barber if he knew anything about Africa.When asked why,Mason told all about being a pen pal with Cyber Writers.

Finally home,Mason grabs a slice of pizza and runs upstairs to check his email.He starts reading and the introduction of Lutalo begins.Lutalo is in desperate need of help to return a Zebra and his missing father."The Zebra is what brings prosperity to farmers crops and harmony to all villagers".The Zebra is known as the "Zebra of Life".

Getting ready for bed Mason crawls under the covers to finish reading his email.Suddenly he feels vines,jumping out of bed he realizes that his bedroom is changing into a jungle.Mason has been virtually transported to Africa.

Follow Mason and Lutalo during their adventures through Africa,as they begin the chase in hopes to safely return the Zebra of Life and Lutalo's father,Mwamba.

Kostlivy did a great job with her first book in the Cyber Writer Series.I found myself anxious to find out what happened next,and I can't wait to read the next book in the series.I was amazed with the plot and she kept my attention from beginning to end.

I give Cyber Writers and The Zebra of Life ***** (5) Stars,Daniel Dietz,children's book reviewer for BK Walker Books.[...]

Great book for boys
Often times, young boys dislike reading. It's a sad truth. If given Cyber Writers and the Zebra of Life, young boys would likely actually enjoy reading! This is just such a cool story about a young boy who is magically transported to Africa and undertakes a heroic adventure with a friend found through Cyber Writers, an electronic penpal circle. The pair (Mason and Lutalo) take on the African jungle and dangerous kidnappers to save Lutalo's father and the magical Zebra of Life.

This story is full of imagination and would easily transport a young mind straight into the heart of Africa puts the reader right in the action. I would easily recommend this book to any boy...likely ages 8-13 would enjoy it best...or any young reader for that matter. Parents, if your son is reluctant to read, try handing him this book and watch as he finds out what a book can do for a young mind.


This review taken from [...].

An African Adventure Tale for Young Readers!

Being a pen pal is fun and young Mason Witt joins a group called Cyber Writers to connect with other kids around the world.One day, however, he learns from his African friend Lutalo that his village is dying due to the theft of their magic Zebra.Wishing he could some how help out his friend, Mason suddenly finds his world around him melt away to be replaced by thick forests of the African jungle.Don't worry Lutalo - Mason is here - help is on the way!

In Cyber Writers, Karen Kostlivy takes young readers on a fun and entertaining journey to Africa where talking animals and magic arrows help our young heroes track the thieves and save their village.Mason learns, as should all children, the value of friendship, teamwork, and frankly exercise!Running through the forest, climbing trees, shooting arrows, all requires strength and stamina and Mason learns his time in front of the TV or playing video games has left him a little soft unlike his African friend.He also learns that his exploring adventures to be much more fun and rewarding than anything he experiences in front of a television.

Kostlivy has created an interesting premise in Cyber Writers.One that I'm sure lends itself to future interesting volumes for young readers to enjoy.

Reading: An Adventure
Middle-grade fiction--that genre between early readers and young adult novels--must accomplish an often difficult task; engage reluctant or struggling readers.
Cyber Writers, by Karen Kostlivy, does just that. Teenager Mason Witt teams up with a fellow cyber writer for an incredible adventure through the heart of Africa. Kostlivy's rich descriptions put the reader into the story as Mason and his friend experience the true meaning of friendship, loyalty and the strength of family. But the best news about Cyber Writers is that it's the first of a series.

Fantastic Adventure for Middle Grade Boys
If anyone wants a book to attract their middle grade boy to read, buy this book.It has everything that boys like, adventure, skateboards, humor, friendship, exotic locale, familiar situations, computers, magic and fantasy.The best thing is that it is the first book in a series.This one is set in Africa, but each one will have a different country as asetting from what I understand.
As a teacher. I can see my students talking about this book.

Janis Friesler
Middle School English Teacher ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Good read
I enjoyed this regency romance. Only one minor slip in slag. Interesting concept. Dragged very little. Interesting characters.

Really 2 & 1/2, but pleasant enough to move up to 3 stars
Both of the other reviewers made excellent points. In fact, I enjoyed the interplay between the main characters so much (in spite of the mounds of historical inaccuracies) that I almost rated the book higher. Attention to history and social mores of the day and to tight plotting and improved style could easily move King into higher rankings.

Relationship-wise, the book was a pleasure to read. Even knowing the outcome of sub-plots in advance failed to detract from the excellent couple. However, the previous viewer is quite correct in the book's most damning flaw: marriageable-age single men and women would NEVER have been allowed to be alone together as depicted in this book. Her reputation would have been ruined and/or he would have been forced to marry her. Worse, other couples were daily in the same situations. Daily carriage travel and all the other complaints of that reviewer are also too true. In addition, the brother's dastardly turn is not given enough base to be truly creditable and the secondary characters could be better developed. For example, the Colonel is the hero's good friend, but you'd never know it if the author hadn't said so. Many things happen only to advance the plot, without really springing from the characters or previous actions. Finally, King repeats too many pet phrases, eventually causing the reader to nearly groan at their use ("tumble in love" being a prime example).

Having said all that, however, I enjoyed the central couple enough that I was able to return to the story every time my disbelief refused to be suspended. The central idea of the book and the general plot used to bring the couple together were fresh and interesting. Better execution, especially regarding historical accuracy, could have made this a fine book indeed.

Mildly entertaining romance - shame about incredible setting
Fenella Trentham has been captivated by the Marquess of Perryn for the past five years, ever since she came upon him blind drunk in the maze at his country estate - and kissed him. Ever since, she's tried to forget him and fall in love with someone else, but she can't get him out of her mind.

For his part, Perryn can't imagine why he's so intrigued with Fenella, especially as he knows that she isn't the lady of his dreams. He's still searching for the golden angel who rescued him from the pit of despair five years earlier, when he was grieving for the death of his lover. So why does his Fennel, as he calls her, matter to him so much?

Someone else thinks she knows, and so when Perryn and Fenella are guests at her house party Mrs Altringham devises a plan to throw them together. She holds a charity treasure hunt, in which her guests must pair off and spend two weeks travelling around the countryside in coaches, collecting items to sell for charity. The best collection will win a prize. Fenella, being naturally competitive, wants to win - but is appalled when her host's machinations pair her up with Perryn, with whom she fights almost every time they meet, and whom she has an almost irresistible desire to kiss. Can they possibly spend two weeks in close proximity without killing each other?

The romance is actually quite well done; Fenella and Perryn go through appropriate phases of impatience and irritation with each other, moments of inexplicable desire, and spend time getting to know each other very well - enough to learn some surprising things about each other. But the setting is so incredible that I can't rate this book any higher than two stars.

First, a lady and a gentleman - not related to each other - alone in a carriage for hours at a time? Where were the chaperones? This is simply not possible. Equally, where were the chaperones at the houses the teams visited? Men and women seemed to be alone together without a single person batting an eyelid.

Second, it's equally impossible that the teams could have been out every day. Carriage-travel was exhausting in the early nineteenth century; the roads were dusty and full of holes, and no matter how well-sprung a carriage was, there is simply no way that Mrs Altringham's guests would have turned out day after day to travel from place to place. And travelling on the day after a ball (which would have ended late) and on a Sunday? Simply not possible.

Third, how could Perryn have possibly held a ball at his country estate four days into the expedition? Fenella notes that he would have needed at least two weeks to organise it - and yet he, like her, didn't know that they would be going on the expedition, and ending up at his home, until the night before they left. Silly plot hole, that.

The narrative is not, as another reviewer suggested, in any way reminiscent of Jane Austen. I was jolted out of the story on several occasions by Americanisms and anachronisms in narrative and dialogue, and by grammatical errors. There were also elementary errors in word usage: King, `disinterested' does not mean *un*interested!

The subplot regarding Fenella's brother seemed forced and unnecessary. Finally, it was very strange that we never learned Perryn's first name!

wmr-uk

Quite entertaining!
Miss Fenella Trentham fell in love with the Marquess of Perryn five years ago on a moonlit night in his rose garden.Never mind that he was horribly drunk at the time or that he seemed to be wasting all of the gifts he had been given by birth.There was something about his kisses and, well, something about him that Fenella fall hopelessly in love with Perryn.For his part, Perryn remembered only that an angel had visited him and her words and kisses had led him to change his life for the better.

Five years later, Fenella and Perryn have encountered one another at many balls and neither has been able to shake the inexplicable attraction they have for one another.This time, they encounter one another at a house party given by their mutal friend, Mrs. Almington.They encounter one another by chance in her rose garden and their attraction is fueled by the most amazing kisses.Mrs. Almington, for her part, has always believed that Fenella and the Marquess belong together and so she has set upon a matchmaking scheme.

Following Mrs. Almington's grand plan, Fenella and Perryn find themselves matched together on a scavenger hunt to create a collection to be auctioned for the poor.Along the way, they must spend every travelling moment together.While they bicker and tease one another, their attraction continues to grow.Fenella, however, cannot find it in her to trust Perryn given his roguish tendancy to flirt with anything in skirts.But as their trip continues, she finds herself falling deeper in love with him and feeling more as if she could not live without him.

A Rogue's Embrace is a charming book that will have you smiling from the first page.The attraction between Fenella and Perryn is evident from the beginning and their lighthearted teasing makes an enjoyable book.The only draw back was a slightly sinister appearance by a family member.However, this does not detract from the overall experience of the book.Quite entertaining, you will find this easy and fun read.Valerie King's talent at writing regencies and at creating a reading experience reminiscent of the language of Jane Austen will keep you coming back for more. ... Read more

Product Description
Drew Benton, Marquess of Sheridan, has no time for the beau monde's frivolities, particularly when society turns a blind eye to the city's poor. If he is considered cynical - some would say positively misanthropic - it's of little consequence to him. As is the ton's latest darling, Lady Olivia Cunningham. Wealthy, beautiful, and possessed of the sunniest disposition Sheridan has ever encountered, she is quick to find the good in everyone - even, apparently, him. A friend to the ton's wallflowers and all who are in need, Olivia is kind-hearted and generous by nature. Although her latest secret crusade is offering aid to the women of the demimonde, she is determined to spare time for Lord Sheridan. Never has Olivia met a man who so desperately requires a woman's love... ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

a light, fast and ultimately undemanding read
"Lady Olivia to the Rescue" is not a very deep or complex book; rather, it is a perfectly simple and straight forward tale of two people who are perfectly matched for each other, but who take a while (the hero, the Marquess of Sheridan, especially) to realise that they're a perfect fit. Lady Olivia Cunningham is not only beautiful and rich, but she's also one of the kindest women in London. Not content to merely flit from entertainment to entertainment, Lady Olivia quietly runs several charitable enterprises in the heart of London, trying to find homes and jobs for the poor and dispossessed. Everyone likes and thinks well of her; except for the stern and misanthropic Marquess of Sheridan thinks that Lady Olivia is a nitwit and a coquette. Fate, however, is about to throw Lady Olivia in the marquess' path, and allow him to discover that Lady Olivia is far more than he perceives her to be, and that she would make him an excellent wife -- if only the stubborn man would open his eyes and his heart.

That in the nutshell is what this novel is all about: the Marquess of Sheridan discovering that Lady Olivia is his equal (or perhaps his superior) in every way, even as he denies his strong feelings for her, quite content to molder in a sea of jealousy because he's afraid that she has fallen in love with his rakish best friend. As such, "Lady Olivia to the Rescue" was a very fast, undemanding and ultimately, very unrewarding read. There are several interesting bits involving Lady Olivia's charitable efforts and her relationships with her servants and dependents, which would have made the book more interesting for me if those bits had been developed more. Likewise an undeveloped thread about the marquess' uneasy relationship with his young son. The thing about this novel that really bothered me however was the marquess' jealousy and his lack of trust. Right up till the end he suspects Lady Olivia and his best friend of playing him false. And while there are some mitigating circumstances for his jealousy, I'm not sure if it bodes well when a man professes to love a woman, but doesn't seem able to trust her to behave honourably.

Too many subplots
Lady Olivia Cunningham is without flaw.Everyone loves her.She's a beautiful, charitable do-gooder, and a darling of the ton.She concerns herself with the lower classes, and she treats her servants like friends.When Olivia runs into the Marquess of Sheridan (literally), she decides to find the dour man some happiness.

Drew Benton, Marquess of Sheridan, has no interest in society. His first marriage was a disaster, and his children are away at school.Drew made his fortune through gambling, and he scowls his way through every ball he's forced to attend.The indomitable Lady Olivia may be the answer to his megrims.

Julia Parks can write a good story, but this wasn't one of my favorites.There were too many subplots and a few unnecessary characters, and they ultimately detracted from the main plot.On the other hand, I liked a few of the sub-characters better than the leads... which is usually not a good thing.Parks starts to balance it all in the end, and it makes for a fairly enjoyable read. It's not a favorite, but it's certainly not bad. ... Read more

Product Description
The Rita Award-winning author of Lord Stanhope’s Proposal delights with this devilishly witty and wicked story of lust and longing, and punch-drunk love...

John Fitzwilliam and Addie Winstead were engaged to one another by their fathers, long before the pair had anything to say about the matter. Yet over the years, Addie has carried a torch for the seductive prizefighter, whose amorous escapades demanded she hide her feelings and her hopes and focus on earning an income for her household by secretly writing a popular boxing column in the London Post. Ever the professional, Addie must report in detail even her beloved’s most embarrassing defeat. And despite himself—perhaps it was the knock he took the head, or more likely, an arrow to his heart—Fitz suddently feels a delicious new longing for lovely Addie. But when a passionate kiss turns into scandal, will he be forced to defend Addie’s honor in the ring? Worse, will Addie have no choice but to deny her greatest love in order to save him? ... Read more

Customer Reviews (12)

Almost fantastic!
If you love historical romance, if you love Jane Austen, if you love to laugh, then this is a book you'll enjoy.The style and wit in this novel are fantastic.

The things that keep this from a 5 star rating:
1) The author tries a little too hard to be funny.Conversations often go like this:
Hero quips
Hero's friend quips
Hero's butler quips
repeat
Unfortunately, every quipping character seems to have the same sense of humor.
2) Cartoonish supporting characters.In the extreme!All old ladies, apparently, are actually the same person.
3) Anachronisms.I say "snappish."You may, too.The characters, though, "Snappish?"Hmm.
4) Apparently little substance to the hero.Why does Addie love him?"Because she always has" isn't as satisfying as one might hope.

After reading this one, I'll be reading JB's other books.This author definitely has potential!

What a fun read!
Sure, the book may not be entirely fitting with the time period, but this book is so much fun to read that it doesn't really matter! Overall, a delightful book.

Enjoyable
Addie and Fitzwilliam have been betrothed since before they were born.Addie is in love with Fitzwilliam, but she knows he doesn't want her, so she tries to put her feelings aside.Fitzwilliam is a happy bachelor and he hasn't paid much attention to Addie for some time, so he missed the quiet beauty and charming lady she has become.When they attend a party together, Fitzwilliam explains to Addie that he has no intention of settling down and she should move on with her life but then his desire to kiss her overcomes him and he realizes that Addie means more to him than he thought.

Addie writes a boxing column for the Post anonymously.Fitzwilliam is a poor boxer and when he is called out defending Addie's honor, he needs help with his skills.He seeks the help of the mysterious writer.

Fitzwilliam and Addie find themselves in each other's company more and more because Fitzwilliam's friend and Addie's sister are engaged.They always seem to end up kissing too.Fitzwilliam is baffled by his reaction to Addie and he is still unable to accept his attraction to her and Addie knows she would be miserable if Fitzwilliam married her out of pity.Fitzwilliam should be relieved letting Addie go, but he's not.So when Annie's identity is revealed they make a wager, should he win the match under her tutelage, she will marry him and if he should lose he will set her up so she no longer has to marry someone else.

As the bout draws closer Fitzwilliam can't decide which would be better, winning or losing the fight.

Much Obliged is a romantic story.Addie and Fitzwilliam feel more angst than happiness though.They are attracted to each other and it seems they would be happy together, but there are many obstacles in their way.Mainly their own pride.However, the ending is heart warming.There are many witty and tender moments in this story, and Addie and Fitzwilliam's stolen kisses are passionate.Overall though, I found Much Obliged to be enjoyable but not enthralling.


Nannette
Reviewed for Joyfully Reviewed

Funny but not believable
This second novel by Jessica Benson was another light read comedy of errors using an abundance of fresh witty dialog that saved this novel from becoming too boring and unbelievable.

It starts off with two deaf ladies discussing the latest on dits contained in the boxing column of the London Post - again, funny, witty dialog - then switches over to our hero, John Fitzwilliam, holding a poultice over his blackened eye as he reads the same column describing his embarrassing defeat.The boxing column and the unknown anonymous writer are key to the original plot depicting our heroine, Addie Winstead, as anonymous in order to help ends meet in their not too well to do household. This was an original concept in depicting a regency era young lady with a wealth of knowledge on a subject that would have been quite taboo during that period.

Fitzwilliam, and Addie had been betrothed by their respective fathers from birth only Fitzwilliam, was not ready for marriage, now and probably not ever as he was having too much fun sowing his oats and believing that he would be exactly like his father.His childhood memories of a not so rosy marriage between his parents, with both parties being indifferent to one another, along with his father's numerous affairs did nothing to entice him to enter the marital state.

Addie, who had grown up idolizing and loving Fitzwilliam ever since she could remember, had quietly waited for him to `come up to scratch', yet, in her heart, knew she could never marry him knowing that he would be doing so as an `honor bound duty'.So rather than him ever knowing her financial difficulties, she would continue her clandestine writing as anonymous.

Caring about his old childhood friend, he felt that he should do the honorable thing and release her from the betrothal so that she could get on with her life and accept another suitor.It was like a `wake-up call' for him as he realized after he released her; looked at the grown up woman she had become; and kissed her that she sparked something in him that was not at all a familiar feeling. It was after that kiss that a chance discovery, that could have ruined her, by a drunken friend mistaking Addie for a lightskirt led Fitzwilliam to declare her to be his `betrothed'.

Addie, so hopelessly in love, thought that she would save Fitzwilliam from marrying her by accepting the suit of an absolutely revolting `mama's boy'. Even then, Fitzwilliam could not admit that what he felt was anything akin to love, yet he did not want to see her throwing herself away on such a prig as her newly betrothed!

The multitude of secondary characters and the dialog saved this story from being tossed aside by this reader as I found it hard to believe that such a forward thinking heroine such as Addie would have stood one moment for such a self-righteous prig of fiancé.No one woman could have endured this man let alone the forward-thinking Addie. The other problem I saw was that her sister, who she was extremely close to, would not have told her fiancé, who was Fitzwilliam's best friend, what the real problem was!

Not Obliged
This novel started out promising, with two old, deaf ladies trying to talk to each other about a scandalous column in the London Times, relating a sparring match.

It quickly degenerates into much less.The heroine and hero have been betrothed since childhood.She loves him.He loves his single life, mistresses and all.

After renouncing their betrothal plans to each other, they proceed to kiss.This leads, in a ridiculous way, to a fight to save the heroine's honor.The fight being a sparring match, which the hero is utterly incompetent at.What he doesn't know is the heroine is the writer of the column in the newspaper, which has regalled his incompetency at Jackson's Saloon, for everyone to read.

She agrees to train him for the fight, deceptions abound between them, and, if you're still interested in reading this, you can find out for yourself how it ends.

I found this novel very unsatisfying for three reasons:
1) the unrealistic storyline
2) the swearing (very inappropriate and completely unjustified for the scenes they appear in)
3) the lovemaking (inconsistent with the time setting) ... Read more