Product Description
She was just a shadow of her former self.

Until he came back into her life.

U.S. intelligence agent Claire Day and former Marine Sergeant Dan Watson must solve a deadly conspiracy-or forfeit any chance of having a future together. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (10)

I wanted to like this book but...
I wanted to like the book, but I just couldn't do it.Claire is supposed to be super smart, but she left the safehouse in the middle of an attack?Hmmm.Our hero Dan has attached himself to Claire based only on looking at her--he never spoke to her, researched her or anything...so he's a guy who shouldn't like Claire after the bombing when she is not the sexy woman she was in chapter 1.I also can't figure out why Dan thinks Claire died (they should have both ended up in the same hospital at least for a short while after the bombing, but the author implied that Dan gets quick treatment in Germany, but Claire's dad came and got her and took her home, where she was in a coma for 3 months...newsflash, patients in comas generally don't get to fly home).There was too much unrelated info in the story and the hitman in the story and the villian are far too concerned with Claire in the first place.

I just didn't like the story.I especially didn't like that Claire is a frail, sickly woman and our buff hero Dan just plows right into rowdy sex with her.Doesn't sound like any fun for either party.

The other thing I didn't like was the huge quantity of profanity in the book.This book, while a "romantic suspense" seemed like it was trying to appeal to the male reader (like if you drop enough F bombs the man might not realize he's reading a romance novel).

I can't imagine I'll read another book by this author.
I

A keeper
Tired of the same old story retold over and over again? This book is for you.ARomantic Suspensethat has two strong leads with a side cast that keeps you interested and a great villain.

Dan anguished for a year over the one that got away, or never was.He always felt that `Blondie' was really out of his league.Now he was built up a life for himself after getting out of the Marines thinking she is dead.

The premise of Clair living thru the bombing and loosing her memory sets up the story and brings them together in the best way.

I love the `brotherhood' of the Marines that is built into this book.The ending does not just STOP as a lot of books now do...but gives us an ending.

Yes a must buy and a keeper!!!!

Good suspense, beautiful romance, a few issues
I really, really liked this book, but it's not quite a five star read.

Somehow Elizabeth Jennings manages to create an obsessed hero without making him the slightest bit creepy. I know that writing under this name, and also as Lisa Marie Rice ...more I really, really liked this book, but it's not quite a five star read.

Somehow Elizabeth Jennings manages to create an obsessed hero without making him the slightest bit creepy. I know that writing under this name, and also as Lisa Marie Rice, she is known for her heroes more than anything else. They're dynamic and protective and absolutely, completely in love with the heroine from the outset. Dan was such a perfect, incredible guy even I was madly in love with him. However I'm still undecided whether or not he was too perfect.

May I point out the cover? Beautiful - you can imply it's romantic suspense and still have more on the front than a close-up of some waxed guy's pecs. Good stuff.

Dan first saw Claire at an embassy function in Indonesia. He was a Marine on guard, and upon seeing her for the first time he knew she was `his'. She left the function without him noticing, and so he tracked her down to her new posting at a US embassy in Africa, and got himself transferred there. She didn't even know he existed until the day rebels stormed the city and they became trapped together. They shared a kiss before everything went wrong. One year later Claire is still suffering greatly from the injuries she sustained in the explosion, and Dan - believing Claire is dead - has left the Marines and is running a private security firm. Claire discovers Dan, though her head injuries mean she does not remember him. They end up in a whole lot of trouble together, all of it connected to what happened before the drama at the embassy.

When Claire turns up in Dan's office she can barely function. She gets terrible headaches, can't eat, can't do much at all anymore. From what I've heard, all of this author's books tend to take place within a short timeframe, so some suspension of disbelief needs to happen. But I thought Claire's recovery - once she meets up with Dan - was a little too miraculous. She couldn't stand too suddenly without getting a shocking headache, and there were days where she literally couldn't eat. But then she meets Dan, and suddenly she's using weapons and having lots of sex, and wolfing down hamburgers while working away at her computer.

However I really did believe in Dan and Claire's relationship. I thought they were both great people. Dan was protective and strong and everything you'd expect from a military hero, and yet he was also such a regular guy I believed he was someone I might come across in real life and really enjoy spending time with.

My favourite quote:

His mouth turned up as he watched her flounder. Was that - was that a dimple? Maybe dimple was too strong a word for what appeared on that rough face. A dent. It was definitely a dent. A smile-induced dent.

I am very confused why Dan thought Claire was dead in the first place. He had bad injuries of his own from the explosion, but why - after he'd recovered - did he assume she was dead? When he didn't even know who she was he went so far out of his way to track her down and move across the world to be near her. But then they know each other and he doesn't even bother to find out what happened to her? I was waiting for an explanation about that, but it never came. That said, it made for a great plot twist!

One thing I didn't expect from this book was the humour. Though the story is dark and dangerous, there was a lot of funny stuff in there too. It was a good balance for such a serious story.

If I have one criticism of the writing it's that sometimes there's too much introspection. Sometimes the story slowed down a little too much as we spent a few pages in someone's head. I also could have done without the last few pages of unbelievably happy `romance novel' ending.

I'd also liked to have seen a conversation about what had happened to the two of them in the past year. Dan - at least on the page - never found out how Claire got through the months, nor that her father had died, leaving her on her own.

This was a very good book. I've read some really forgettable romantic suspense recently, and this was exactly what I needed. Though it wasn't quite good enough for five stars, it is definitely a book I'd recommend.

Hope more like this are on the way!
Really enjoyed this book which I bought to hold me until my series books are released. So glad I bought it. The story will pull you in and you won't put the book down until you're through with it. Actually finished book in one sitting. Dan and Claire are complete opposites but in the end they bring something fresh and romantic to a fast paced storyline.

Elizabeth Jennings a/k/a Lisa Marie Rice has written better
I won't repeat the synopsis.I found the story to be extremely slow moving, very little action.While there was plenty of sexual tension, after a while I really stopped caring about the characters. I'm all for good descriptions but it seemed like this went on forever.I found myself skipping pages just to get to the end.The ending seemed forced and too pat.All in all, it was an okay book but I wish I had borrowed it from the library instead of spending money to buy it.Author has written better books.Her earlier works as Lisa Marie Rice are great (Midnight series, Port of Paradise).However, I find her work as Elizabeth Jennings and her latest books under LMR leave a bit to be desired. ... Read more

Product Description
After a mysterious woman foils an assassination attempt on the Queen's life, Alex Hepburn, a psychic agent for Her Majesty's Secret Service, recognizes the bold beauty as a conspirator he's been hunting for years. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

Used but in great condition
Was shipped very fast, I got it within a week.Used but in great condition.I love Amazon!!!

The Scot and I by Elizabeth Thornton
"The Scot and I" is really more of a three and a half star read.I usually like Elizabeth Thornton's heroes and heroines, but there was just something about Mahri and her actions that kept me from enjoying this book as much as I'd hoped.

Alex is an agent in Her Majesty's Secret Service (in 1885).He's also a bit psychic, even though he'd rather slit his own throat than admit that to anyone except his likewise afflicted brothers.They inherited their 'talents' from their deceased grandmother, The Witch of Drumore.Alex can hold things and learn about the people they belonged to, and when he captures a young man who may or may not be involved in a plot against the Queen, he's not quite sure WHAT his talent is telling him.

Mahri is stuck between two equally bad alternatives.She can betray her close ones or keep quiet and let them kill the Queen.After much thought, she decides to do neither and instead tries to foil their plot on her own, only to end up captured by one of the Queen's agents, a very handsome agent indeed.Now she's torn even more.How can she choose?

Mahri is indeed in a bad spot; she will have to betray one 'side' to prevent murder and neither are likely to forgive OR forget.I don't want to give too much away, but it was irritating to figure out most of the story less than halfway through the book.There are plenty of red herrings and suspects, but really only one makes sense (at least to me).Ms. Thornton DID manage to throw in a surprise or two along the way and the taut attraction between Alex and Mahri was wonderfully written.

I can't remember if I've ever read another of Ms. Thornton's books that had even a hint of the paranormal, but Alex's skills really played a very small part in this plot.So I wouldn't describe it as full-on paranormal, more a historical romance with a bit of woo-woo.Since I'm normally a fan of Elizabeth Thornton, I'll be interested to see what she does with stories of the other brothers.

Only average...
I look foward to reading as many Scottish romances that are offered be they historical or contemporary. I was interested in this one because of the unique time period but maybe that was the problem. This book could have beens set anywhere, there was very little Scottish flavor to the story. Set in the Royal Deeside with a great mape, a bit more Scots dialect or at least Gaelic would have been in order. They all sounded too English for all that they claimed they were Scots and at times some of the dialogue seemed way too modern for the time period. And shouldn't an author who was born in Scotland know that it is Whisky never Whiskey in Scotland? Ot was that a problem of the publisher or spellchecker?

Other problems included a poorly executed subplot with the spy/intelligence and attempt on the Queen's life which took over the story deminishing the romance. The sexual tension was weak and the romance was not very satisfying or believable.The upside it was a period that we haven't seen much in romance but that wasn't enough to save this romance.Ms Thornton is a well seasoned romance author with other titles that are much more satisfying, so pass on this one and read her backlist instead.

Okay, not great.
I read all three books of this series. I liked the first book the best of all. This just didn't do it for me. He was a disappointment compared to how he is portrayed in the first book of the series. He's just a bully in this one. Not my favorite, but an enjoyable beach read.

Nothing Happens
This book has a good concept, and I normally like the author. However, it just bogs down and nothing happens for chapter after chapter. They spend endless amounts of time just waiting in one place or another. The romance between the lead characters also feels lacking in depth. The book isn't terrible, it just isn't very interesting. ... Read more

Product Description
James Burnett is a widower who’s given up hope of finding someone to share his life with. He did, however, once have a lover he later dubbed Faithless McBride. For eight years, he’d suppressed thoughts of Faith McBride’s abandonment with whiskey and women. That is, until visions of her imminent death started to haunt him. Only James can save her from a killer—but can Faith trust the one man who destroyed her faith in love? ... Read more

Customer Reviews (9)

pretty good
It seems that lately my romance novel reading has resulted in hits and misses, with I fear, the misses outweighing the hits.The Runaway McBride was, happily, a hit for me.The leads, Faith McBride and her long ago love James Burnett were extremely likable.I liked the set up where the old Scots grandmother tried to talk some sense into her too English grandsons.I admit that I really like the loved and believed jilted storylines and this was a goodie.Elizabeth Thornton is a very smooth writer and she creates very interesting characters and situations.Faith's revelations about her mother were extremely heartwrenching.Isaw several worthy candidates for future hero status.I hope Thornton's health permits her to continue writing and turning out these riveting novels.

A lttle tepid at times....
On her deathbed, James Burnett's grandmother passed on her powers to one, or all, of her three grandsons.James is doubtful that his grandmother actually had any powers, until he begins to have some frightening dreams, and then some waking hallucinations. He soon realizes that he's inherited a gift he never wanted.

Faith McBride begins to haunt his dreams, both waking and sleeping, and soon James realizes that he must find Faith, or risk her death. None too happy to have to renew his aquaintance with a woman who dumped him, James does his duty and finds Faith anyway.

Faith is not thrilled to see James when he finally manages to find her, quickly escaping as soon as she is able, unwilling to dredge up old feelings of when her beloved had married another. James pursues her relentlessly, and it is only when she realizes that she is in real danger that she accepts his help.

THE RUNAWAY MCBRIDE is at times a bit tepid, with the characters having a hard time making up their minds, and the plot seeming to go off kilter a few times, but otherwise the book is a good read. Even though it wasn't quite the page turner that I had hoped for when I sat down to read it, THE RUNAWAY MCBRIDE does have a delightful historical flavor, populated with believable characters.

The Runaway McBride
Lady Valeria McEcheran is dying. The Scottish townsfolk think her a witch. Her three grandsons don't know what to make of her...talented but delusional storyteller or really one of the last of a long line of powerful seers? Before she passes, she has a message for each of her grandsons. James Burnett, the story's widowed hero, is told his future bride is in danger and he must find her before she dies.

Jump forward three months. James has inherited his grandmother's second sight, a particularly trying gift, but something he has so far ignored. After he catches a glimpse of his grandmother's disapproving face in the mirrored ceiling tiles while trying to have sex with a high-end prostitute, James gives up both whiskey and women. Setting his sights on finding the woman he's dreaming about - Faith McBride, his former fiancée-James uses his considerable railroad baron money to track her down.

The task isn't a difficult one. Not one of the privileged class, Faith McBride, doesn't have a lot of options available to her. Currently, she's a teacher at girls' school, teaching foreign history. When she stumbles upon a photo of a woman who looks like an older version of herself in her father's belongings, she begins to question everything her father told her about her mother and her genealogical background. Unfortunately, her snooping is going to lead her into the danger James has foreseen.

I'm not a diehard historical reader so I cannot tell you if Ms. Thornton's writing is historically accurate nor am I one of those readers who is jarred out of the story by a historical inaccuracy, unless it's a glaring one. What I can tell you is that the plot unspools at a leisurely pace, gently tugging the reader along like a leaf drifting downstream. It isn't one of those books I'd re-read or return to again and again, but nor is it something I wouldn't recommend. (And I am looking forward to reading about the second grandson, Alec, in his own book.) I am disappointed none of the Scottish gentlemen make an appearance in a kilt. What is a Scottish romance without a kilt-clad hero? (Though I could have lived without the Scottish burr making an appearance in the first chapter).

Kidding aside, one plot detail that did really bother me was how such a simple thing as a lack of communication estranged Faith and James in the first place. Engaged after three months of courting, the pair were separated when James has to return to Scotland to take care of some business problems. Faith gets word that James is engaged to his childhood sweetheart; she travels to Scotland to verify this and instead of meeting James, runs into the presumed fiancée. Faith actually believes the woman's lies and flees. James, who has a considerable amount of wealth, never pursues her. He just assumes that she ran off with another man. Whoa. One would think a little investigating would have been done, if Faith was really his one true love, the light of his life, yadda, yadda. But nope. James marries his conniving lady who dies shortly thereafter. And Faith, who never ran off with another man in the first place, becomes a teacher.

The mystery surrounding Faith's family did intrigue me. Everyone is a suspect. There's a nice handful of murders, villains disguised as cops, an eccentric group of people obsessed with Egyptian history, and a cast of mostly well-drawn and interesting secondary characters. Like chicken noodle soup on a bleak day, The Runaway McBride is a gentle, comfort read. No explicit sex, no horribly graphic murder details, an intelligent heroine, an alpha hero, and a detailed villain (though the amount of effort the villain invests doesn't seem quite on par with the actual secret, but to each his own). It's a novel I'd feel comfortable sharing with my grandmother, a co-worker, or a casual acquaintance.

Chris
Reviewed for Joyfully Reviewed

Compelling, exciting and more than a little sexy
The life of Miss Faith McBride, a former Lady's companion and current schoolteacher at a prestigious girl's academy, is in danger. Warned by a whispered warning of his grandmother on her deathbed, her ex-fiancé James Burnett is intent on keeping his nightly premonitions of her death from coming true. With a great misunderstanding about their past lying between them, and a murderer intent on Faith, the odds seem overwhelming. The pair must unravel a mystery, navigate the social niceties of the 19th century, and possibly even repair their damaged romance.

The trouble with many romantic suspense novels is that they can often veer into the realm of predictability and tediousness. Thankfully, Ms. Thornton's book has no need to fear in that respect. Even as I attempted to unravel the mystery before the heroine and hero, there was always some twist that I had not been expecting. The author manages to keep the tangled weave believable, as well as her characters relatable.

I plan on not only recommending //The Runaway McBride// to my friends and family, but also tracking down any other books Ms. Thornton has read.

Reviewed by Alicia Davis

Disappointed
I have been an avid fan of Ms. Thornton.This was not up to her standards.With the proliferation of paranormal romances out there, perhaps her agent thought that she should join the crowd.The heroine is one of the dumbest I have ever read about.James is a non-hero.One thing I did love was the cover.Miss all those beautiful covers with stepbacks. ... Read more

Product Description
There's only one sure way for fledgling party planner Natalie Beckett to make her Kentucky Derby Eve soiree a success: get reclusive video game creator/billionaire Russell Mullholland to attend. But how can she even get out of the gate with Russell's gorgeous bodyguard, Finn Guthrie, blocking the way? Never let it be said that Natalie doesn't like a challenge, for soon she finds sparring with Finn far more exciting than landing Russell on her VIP guest list. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

DARLING...I couldn't stop smiling
This was a very fun read and I have to say I truly laughed out loud more than once over the hilarious dialogue.Bevarly has a very clever way with words and I could really picture the conversations taking place.Even though there was a great deal of "passive" versus "active" action, (lots of mental conversations) the way it was written was so funny that it was easy to read.

One scene in particular: Russell, the millionaire is stuck having dinner with Natalie's so-called fiance, Dean Waterman; very funny the way Russell mentally changes Dean's name to Dim Witterman, or Dunce Weaselman throughout the entire converstation. Truly inspired.I couldn't stop laughing.

Loved references to the Kentucky Derby and Kentucky in general.Now I want to go visit.

Neck & Neck
Professional party planner Natalie Beckett has one shot to make a go of her fledgling business and to do so she has to make society dame Clementine Hotchkiss's Kentucky Derby Eve Fundraiser Gala a phenomenal success.But in order to make Clementine's party the talk of the town, Natalie needs to convince reclusive billionaire Russell Mulholland to attend.There's just one problem: a big, brawny, devastatingly handsome roadblock in her way - Russell's head of security, Finn Guthrie.

Finn has learned since childhood to trust no one, especially not some party planner set on stalking his best friend.Sure, Natalie is temptingly gorgeous, but Finn isn't about to let that distract him from his job of protecting Russell and his son Max.But Finn's determination to ignore Natalie is about to be put to the test because Natalie will not be ignored.

Sparks fly in this enchanting read by Elizabeth Bevarly.Neck & Neck is fresh and fun with not one, but two romances that are sure to captivate.The first is Finn and Natalie's love story.Their romance is a delightful case of opposites attract.It was entertaining watching the intractable Finn fall for Natalie when he was absolutely against the idea.

The subplot of Neck & Neck, however, captured my attention even more than the main romance.From the very beginning of the tale, Ms. Bevarly broke my heart with Russell, a widower with a teenage son who has been in a downward spiral since his wife's death.I so wanted to see Russell find happiness and was so happy to see him fall in love with Ginny Collins, a single parent herself.Unlike Finn and Natalie who are truly different from one another, Russell and Ginny are a couple whom she perceives as opposites but are, in fact, more similar than Ginny realizes.Ginny and Russell's romance grabbed my heart and didn't let go, adding a great depth of emotion to Neck & Neck.

Alternately humorous and heartwarming, Neck & Neck was a wonderful, gripping read from beginning to end.This is the first book I've read by Ms. Bevarly and it definitely won't be the last!

Shayna
Reviewed for Joyfully Reviewed

Loved it!
I really liked this book. It was a little slow, but I like it anyway.
This book is almost perfect contemporary romance for me. I definitely enjoyed of the writing style, plot, and characters. Now I am looking forward to read the rest of this trilogy.

So-so!
Natalie Beckett is a professional party planner in a bit of a crisis. She's putting a Kentucky Derby party together for a big socialite to benefit unprivileged kids and it will either make or break her brand-new party planning career. Thing is, the guest list leaves something to be desired. In the sense that there's barely anyone of interest on it and that's what she needs desperately. She has to make this party the best one of the several Derby parties, not just so both her and the client don't end up looking like losers but also because Clementine Hotchkiss, the client, would be able to give a nice, big fat check to Kids, Inc, the benefit.

Natalie's willing to do anything, including stalking - I mean scoping! - the reclusive video game creator, Russell Mullholland, to attend the party. However, Russell's pretty much a hermit and he never goes to any of these parties (or any place, really, except maybe strip clubs) so she's in for a challenge. But before she can try to persuade him to go to the party Natalie has to go through Finn Guthrie, Russell's main bodyguard, who just happens to be totally gorgeous. Will she be able to convinced Russell to go? That is, if she manages to get through Finn first.

Neck & Neck is a seriously laugh-out-loud funny contemporary romance. That was one of the major things that I liked about it: the humor. The secondary characters, Russell and Amber/Ginny totally stole the story for me. They seemed so genuine and I was more interested in their part of the book than the actual main characters. Natalie and Finn's chemistry was great to read but I didn't feel the same attachment to them as I did to Russell and Amber/Ginny, I couldn't relate to them. At times, I just zoned out, some of the descriptions seemed really drawn out and it bored me. However, the great humor, along with down-to-earth secondary characters was what the made this story an enjoyable read.

Now I want to travel to Kentucky !
This novel has two love stories - Natalie and Finn and Russell and Amber/Ginny.Russell is a billionaire who Natalie (party planner) wants at her Kentucky Derby Eve party but Finn his bodyguard is not going to let her near his boss and sparks FLY.Across town Russell goes strip club and finds himself attracted to a waitress Amber. Amber dresses the part but when her shift is done the red wig stays behind and most of the make-up too - she is full-time student and single mom. It's a cute story - in the end it made me want to travel to Louisville, Kentucky.

If you enjoy this genre I would also suggest; Red's Hot Honky-Tonk Bar, Double Play (Berkley Sensation) and Start Me Up. ... Read more

Product Description
When those around her begin meeting tragic fates, Kate Cameron knows she's next-until she's rescued by psychic Gavin Hepburn. But after a night of hiding together, Kate is branded a fallen woman and forced into marriage with Gavin-an arrangement that suits Gavin's purpose to do anything it takes to keep Kate safe from a killer haunting her past. For this enigmatic and lonely beauty has become the unexpected love of his life. ... Read more

Product Description
When Audrey Magill stumbles onto a portrait of a 19th-century riverboat captain, she thinks it’ll be perfect for her new hat shop. She doesn’t expect to meet a ghost who insists Audrey must help save the soul of his great-great-however-many-greats grandson. Now in addition to scrambling to open her shop in time for the Kentucky Derby, she must convince a complete stranger that he’s in danger of losing his soul— and that everlasting love does exist. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

Sexy & Romantic, with a Dash of Paranormal
READY & WILLING is the second in a Kentucky Derby series by Elizabeth Bevarly.I loved both books and am looking forward to the third.I always enjoy the author's wordplay, dialogue, and character introspection.I always know I will get a romantic and sexy read when I buy one of her books.READY & WILLING, which includes two sets of heroes and heroines, kept me up late reading several nights in a row.I thoroughly enjoyed seeing Audrey & Nathaniel and Cecilia & Silas reach their happily-ever-after.

I should have save my money
I love a good paranormal romance with ghosts.Sadly, this wasn't it.This story had so much potential but the author didn't really follow through.

Audrey Fine Magill is a widower, who is opening a store dedicated to hats.She went to an antique shop to buy some things for her place and a painting in the back caught her eye.It was a painting of Captain Silas Summerfield.And coincidentally, he originally lived in her place about 80-so years ago.She bought it and brought it back.What she didn't realize was that the spirit of the good captain was residing in it and was waiting for the chance to talk to her.He needed her to save his great-whatever grandson's, Nathaniel, soul.Of course, when Audrey does see the grandson, he was skeptical and lost his soul anyway.The story continues on where they try to get his soul back.

The dialogue between Audrey and Nathaniel is immature at best.I was so frustrated with their thought processes.Their thinking is juvenile and they constantly reused the same adjective or quote at least three times in the same paragraph.As though we didn't get their meaning the first time around.And I also believe someone mentioned this already in their review, but I have to emphasize it again.What was the point of saying, "My great-great-whatever grandson" every time they refer to Nathaniel.It was cute the first three times but after that, the author was just plain overdoing it.There is nothing wrong with referring to him as your "great grandson" since it was clearly known fact to everyone.

The only reason I gave this a 3 stars instead of 2 was the side love story of Silas and Cecilia.Wow.They had more romance in their souls (no pun intended) then the main characters.It's very telling that the side characters are more mature and lovable when both pairs have obstacles that could come between them.Audrey frustrated me with her emotional instability where her late husband was concern.She was a weak character.While Cecilia had legit reasons for her emotional problems, quickly work through them with some help with Silas.I respected her.Surprisingly, Nathaniel slowly redeemed himself with his willingness to believe in the paranormal and with the ability to look at himself in a new light.

I have never read this author before.I'm willing to read more of her books but with reluctance.Personally, this was an all right book.I would have saved my $8.00 though.

Light contemporary fantasy is two romances for the price of one
Widow Audrey Magill is prepared to begin a new life in some ways but definitely not others. Formerly a successful tax accountant she has thrown this all over to pursue her dream of making hats. Yes, hats. In Kentucky the right hat could net a milliner thousands of dollars just prior to the start of Kentucky Derby Days. Thus Audrey has purchased a house in the center of town to serve as both residence and business. Her grand opening is just days away and she is looking for just the right odds and ends to give her shop the right air. That is how she winds up in an antique store where she comes across a portrait she just has to have.

No the testosterone laden portrait is not the thing for her ultra feminine shop, but the subject of the painting had called out to her, and when she'd discovered that its subject, Riverboat Captain Silas Summerfield, had once owned her home and the price had mysteriously become affordable she'd snapped it up. She soon learns that the sudden affinity for the portrait had been no accident. Captain Summerfield had returned from the great beyond to save his descendant Nathaniel's soul. Silas' ghost is bound to his portrait, so wherever it goes, so he goes as well.

Audrey of course is to be charged by the Captain with the task of saving said descendant's soul, but she's not at all sure she believes in ghosts. After all, if they truly existed wouldn't her late husband, a police officer killed in the line of duty, have moved heaven and earth to be with her. Heaven knew, in the same position she'd have done so to be with him. But Silas soon convinces her to visit his great, great many times removed grandson and in spite of her better judgment she finds herself in Nathaniel Summerfield's office trying to persuade him to scrap a multimillion dollar real estate deal. It doesn't help that Nathaniel thinks she's a fruitcake or that he stirs emotions in her that not even her beloved husband ever had. He's insufferable to boot. Audrey returns home unsuccessful and Nathaniel strikes the deal.

But the instant the ink is dry on the paper, Nathaniel gets a strong sensation in the middle of his chest and it's clear to him he's lost something important. From that moment on he experiences a bone chilling cold that nothing can warm except for the touch of one Audrey Magill. The attraction between them is undeniable. Unfortunately Audrey is still very much in love with her late husband. She still wore her wedding ring on her finger and Sean's class ring on a chain around her neck. Can Nathaniel convince her to move on with her life? Can she help him to recover his soul?

In a neat little twist Silas, who had sired a son from an indiscretion, married as a result and lost the wife he'd barely known in childbirth, finds a sweet little romance of his own. Audrey's neighbor Cecilia had been demoralized and abused by her husband and had fled, flitting from town to town in hopes that he'd never find her. Something about the Kentucky town had called to her to stay though she'd still eschewed any contact with heterosexual men. When Audrey hires her to staff her ultra-feminine boutique it's the perfect situation. At first she can hear Silas but cannot see him but as the two get to know each other her heart opens her eyes. Silas was a true gentleman, nothing like her husband and being insubstantial he is totally safe. Only in her dreams can the two enjoy romantic interludes. Ms. Bevarly however does not whip up a hokey scenario to send Cecilia back in time or for Silas to materialize in the flesh. Still it was a delightful little side line and I'm not really sure which romance I enjoyed more. At times the main romance seemed a little one sided

I have to say that I didn't think as much of Audrey's late husband as she seemed to. He came off as selfish in bed and could have at least come in person to let her know that he was cool with her getting on with her life. It was painfully clear that Nathaniel would be the true love of her life and the reader will be glad that she finally realizes it. There's a nice little mystery to be solved as well as the pair works together to figure out exactly why Nathaniel's soul went missing after signing the contract.

READY & WILLING is a nice little contemporary romance with a fun paranormal element. It is a follow up story to FAST & LOOSE a straight contemporary romance which also involves the Kentucky Derby. ~ Reviewed for PNR Reviews

Really enjoyed it!
This is a great Elizabeth Bevarly book--I liked the ghost even, and I don't usually like paranomals :) I also loved the side story about the ghost's romance with the neighbors roommate! A great read and I can't wait for the next in the Derby stories. This one was good but totally different from the first Derby story, so I can't wait to see what #3 will be! Thanks Ms Bevarly!

Parts of the story were entertaining, but on balance I can't recommend it.
REVIEWER'S OPINION:
I loved the secondary story between Cecilia and Silas, which was a very small part of the book, but I did not care for the main story between Audrey and Nathaniel.There was too much pondering within the minds of characters.At times, Audrey was too rude and smart-alecky for me.The plot concerning how Nathaniel was losing his soul and how it was resolved was a little odd but ok.Unfortunately, the other parts of the story were not as entertaining or interesting as I would have liked.I found one scene boring (pages 173 to 181).This is where Audrey has a conversation with Leo, a policeman who was Sean's partner (her dead husband.)They discuss her relationship with Sean.Leo says that Sean would have wanted her to move on with her life, but Audrey doesn't believe it.

Another problem bothered me a lot, which follows.Instead of using the names Silas and Nathaniel, the author used the following: "the great great however many greats grandson," "your great great et cetera grandfather," "great great blah blah blah grandson," "great great whatever grandfather," and "great great God knows how many greats grandfather."These and similar terms were used far too frequently.I wished the author had just figured out how many greats it was once, and then used that specific number once or twice.After that the author should have used names or the specific label.I was annoyed with the frequency of these vague terms.

STORY BRIEF:
Audrey's husband died three years ago.She still considers herself married for life and plans never to be with anyone else.She moves into an old home previously owned by Silas Summerfield who died in 1932.His ghost communicates with Audrey and asks her to help his great something grandson Nathaniel.Silas says that Nathaniel will lose his soul if he forms a business partnership with Edward Dryden.Audrey visits Nathaniel and tries to help.At first Nathaniel doesn't believe her, and he signs a contract with Edward.At that moment he begins to feel cold.He later sees Audrey and shakes her hand.Touching her is the only thing that reduces the cold that has been haunting him.The story continues with what to do about the contract with Edward, Nathaniel's disappearing soul and the relationship between Nathaniel and Audrey.

DATA:
Story length: 280 pages.Sexual language: strong.Number of sex scenes: 2.Length of sex scenes: 1.5 and 8.5 pages.Setting: current day Louisville, Kentucky.Copyright: 2008.Genre: contemporary fantasy romance. ... Read more

Product Description
Sex is a fundamentally important biological variable. Recent years have seen significant progress in the integration of sex in many aspects of basic and clinical research, including analyses of sex differences in brain function. Significant advances in the technology available for studying the endocrine and nervous systems are now coupled with a more sophisticated awareness of the interconnections of these two communication systems of the body. A thorough understanding of the current knowledge, conceptual approaches, methodological capabilities, and challenges is a prerequisite to continued progress in research and therapeutics in this interdisciplinary area.
Sex Differences in the Brain provides scientists with the basic tools for investigating sex differences in brain and behavior and insight into areas where important progress in understanding physiologically relevant sex differences has already been made. This book was edited and co-authored by members of the Isis Fund Network on Sex, Gender, Drugs and the Brain, sponsored by the Society for Womens Health Research.

The book is arranged in three parts. The first part of the book introduces the study of sex differences in the brain, with an overview of how the brain, stress systems, and pharmacogenetics differ in males and females and how this information is important for the study of behavior and neurobiology of both genders.The second part presents examples of sex differences in neurobiology and behavior from both basic and clinical research perspectives, covering both humans and nonhuman animals.The final part discusses sex differences in the neurobiology of disease and neurological disorders.
For interested individuals as well as those who are considering conducting research at the intersections of endocrinology, neuroscience, and other areas of biomedicine, the study of sex differences offers exciting and challenging questions and perspectives. This book is intended as a guide and resource for clinicians, scientists, and students. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Comprehensive academic review of the science of sex differences with very little political agenda
When it comes to studying the nature and origin of differences between men and women, one quickly encounters an aggressive cacophony of politics. Often, the scientists themselves are the most egregious perpetrators of this confusion, selectively coloring and distorting findings to suit their personal agendas.

The fact is, there is an overwhelming amount of science addressing sex differences. And no single book does a better job of communicating the bulk of this science in a neutral fashion than Sex Differences in the Brain. As SDintB asserts early on, accurate knowledge of sexual dimorphisms in the brain isn't just a political or philosophical issue, but a health issue: men and women suffering from multifarious sources of neural and psychiatric debilitation may require different treatment depending on their gender. This is a point often overlooked in the rush to insist that men and women are fundamentally the same in the brain.

Make no mistake: this is an academic book, aimed at scholars. It's dense with invaluable references, with chapters authored by a variety of scientists from a respectably wide diversity of disciplines. It covers almost every major area of sex differences: genetic, behavioral neuroendocrinology, neurocognition, neuroplasticity, neurophysiology, psychiatry, pharmacogenetics, stress response. The chapters are quite thorough, and generally review the available research in a neutral fashion.

There's probably no better place to start an inquiry into what truly makes men and women different than Sex Differences in the Brain. ... Read more

Product Description
Hotshot Thoroughbred trainer Cole Early needs a place to stay during the Kentucky Derby. His only option is a snug little bungalow being rented out by local glass artist Lulu Flannery. And though her house indulges all of Cole's five senses, he'll have to tame his rowdy charm to coax some passion out of Lulu. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (9)

Slow and repeating
I also wanted to like this book,(the cover pic is fabulous, but the heroine wears a dress ONCE under duress!)but I found myself skimming pages at the end just to finish.It felt like the same thing was being said over and over just to fill the pages. They didn't "really, really" meet until the book was almost half over! With the storyline ,I think the book could have been so much better. I like her "Male/Mail" series so I naturally bought this one.I have Ready and Willing...will probably read it 'cause I have that reading disease where I HAVE to finish a book and I can't give one away without at least attempting to read it.

review
I love this series of books.Romance and a little mystery thrown in and they take place in Louisville, KY with good information on that town.

Fast & Loose
When Lulu Flannery decides to rent her house for the Kentucky Derby in hopes of making some quick cash to cover all the renovations that she's been doing, the last person she wants staying in her home is "King Cole". Cole Early is a famous thoroughbred trainer that has a reputation for beautiful women and late nights. However, the only thing on Cole's mind right now is winning the Derby, although he does find his mind wandering constantly to the woman whose home he is renting. Neither Lulu nor Cole is aware that Cole is the person renting Lulu's house. For Cole's part he is intrigued by enigma that the woman whose house he is living in presents. To the point where he sneakily reads her diary and snoops through her underwear drawer

And once they meet, Cole is determined to win Lulu but can he overcome Lulu's reluctance and convince her that he's worth forever?

If I had to choose one word to describe Fast & Loose it would have to be...well...bland. While Lulu and Cole have chemistry together and Cole's sneaking around Lulu's personal belongings is totally humorous, the story never really seems to flesh out. Add to this a secondary story involving Lulu's best friend that I was never able to get emotionally involved in and while Fast & Loose is certainly entertaining reading when your looking for something to do on a lazy day, it never seems to live up the true potential that Lulu and Cole promised.

Melissa
Reviewed for Joyfully Reviewed

A beautiful book about trusting love and your feelings
Warning - spoiler.
I just recently read my first Elizabeth Bevarly book and I'm already a fan. I really like her style to write, love her storylines and because she always presents more than one lovestory I'm on the way to get addicted to her books.
So, "Fast & Loose" is mainly about Lulu Flannery and Cole Early. Lulu is renting out her house because of the Kentucky Derby and Cole is the one to rent it from her. But both don't know about that when they first meet. They have something like a "feeling/attraction on first sight" and meet again some days later still with some attraction between them. But because both usually look for partners with different qualities than the other possesses they are a bit unsure about what to do. Especially because Lulu thinks that Cole is a womanizer using his status as a famous Thoroghbred trainer to get what he wants and Cole thinks that Lulu is a bit crazy, somewhat odd but also very charming and interesting. Things get even more complicated when Lulu realizes that Cole is renting her house and Cole discovers that the owner of his house which he imagined as a hot, sexy and vibrant woman is Lulu.
Both have to handle that sometimes what we think we want is not what we need and that often the outer appeareance is just a shell that helps to cover the real person in order to find love and happiness with each other.
Even though it takes half of the book until they realize who each other really is that doesn't mean that the first pages are boring, contrary they are really funny and beautifully written and I really enjoyed this way to get them to know each other.
The second lovestory is between Lulu's friend Bree and Rufus who's working as a bartender. Bree is looking for some rich guy to marry (for example Cole) who can help her taking care of her ill mother but she realizes that it's more important to really love than to marry rich.
Both lovestories are really nice and I enjoyed this book a lot. Especially the relationship between Lulu and Cole is beautiful and warmed my heart.
So grab yourself a copy of "Fast & Loose" and read on!
Enjoy
S.M.

Fun and Fast
The book has the elements that are classic Beverly - lots of humor, a fun storyline, and a subplot/romance that is much better than the main story and romance. My problem with the book came mainly with lots of editorial errors, beginning on page one. Anyway, the storyline takes place during the Kentucky Derby, when Lulu Flannery decides to rent her home out for some extra income. Lulu is a temperamental artist and takes an immediate dislike to Cole Early, a famous horse-trainer and international playboy. Cole is renting Lulu's home and discovers a lot about her by going through her personal belongings and private diaries. The two of them don't actually get together for quite some time, but they build a friendship throughout the book that makes the eventual relationship more believable. I enjoyed the second storyline much better, the one involving Lulu's best friend. The book is fun, and I'm waiting for the next one in series. I was a bit surprised to find that the material (horse-racing and Kentucky Derby) was also in Flirting with Trouble, Beverly's other new release. ... Read more

Product Description
A new name in epic historical romance.

Rose of Valinor is desperately seeking the aid of the Prince of Venya, certain that only he can save her from her uncle's clutches. Prince Florian wants only to reclaim his lost throne. Wen he's forced to conspire with her, Florian finds the last thing he expected--his heart. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

A delightful story that mixes fantasy and romance in a medieval type of world
Courtesy of CK2S Kwips and Kritiques

This is a delightful story that mixes fantasy and romance in a medieval type of world.

Rose of Valinor is on a mission. Fleeing a depressing place in which she had recently been imprisoned, she goes on the run to find the one man she feels can help her. She needs to find the Prince of Venya in the hopes he can help her escape the wrath of her uncle. The man she finds is nothing like the stories and legends claim, but someone infinitely more intriguing.

Florian barely held on to his life a fateful day many years ago, when the wretched King Richard killed his parents and took over the lands of Venya. As a result, he made a vow that no matter what the risk, he would one day rid his lands of Richard, and assume his rightful place as ruler. He has no time for a misguided young woman whom he feels is slightly mad... or does he?

When Florian realizes Rose may be his greatest hope in ending the long years of war, he determines to make her his by fair means or foul, and sets his course. Little did either of them realize that they'd find their greatest strengths in each other... and a love that is the stuff legends are made of.

This was a wonderful story! Ms. Minogue weaves a passionate tale, full of suspense, romance, mystery, and a healthy dose of the paranormal. Readers will venture in to the swashbuckling world of pirates, where no one is quite what they seem, and magic is the name of the game. The plot is swift moving and well developed, luring one in on the first page and holding tight until the final scenes unfold, surprising in their outcome.

Rose is a brave woman, who puts all else before herself, never minding the risk to her own life. She is deeply passionate, highly intelligent, very caring, and in love with a legend. Florian has one mission in life and always has - to restore his people to their rightful land and to take his place as ruler of the magical land. He is strong willed, also very passionate, and finds himself taken with the young beauty who seeks his aid. When these two come together, their love is all consuming but not without its ups and downs.

Magic, as mentioned before, is a primary player woven into the story. The `filidhi', who fled Venya, are a people of great wisdom and none too lacking in magical abilities. Their skills come into play many times throughout the story, adding a mystical bend to the tale. Florian himself has some pretty impressive abilities, though one is kept in the dark as to what they are through much of the story, with the secret only being revealed when most necessary to the storyline. Also there are other fantastical beings in the story, like the Ilindrian race of people who have some unique traits of their own, and the sea-going merrow, who appear to be much like what is more commonly known as a mermaid. These beings add interesting facets to the story, making it the impressive fantasy it is.

All of the secondary characters are rendered beautifully, with unique personalities. This reviewer was intrigued by many of them. There was the young brave Beylik, a former slave, Florian's surgeon, Sigurd who is not what he seems, the young Ilindrian shipmate Ashkii, King Cristobal of Sorlain, the filidhi Mage apprentice Caelan and the hated King Richard. Everyone adds depth and dimension to the story, making for a more than satisfying read.

This was a fascinating story that this reviewer thoroughly enjoyed and would recommend highly. Also, she has a sneaking suspicion that there may be sequels yet to come, having found some characters just longing for their own stories to be told.

© Kelley A. Hartsell, December 2004. All rights reserved.

I'm reading romance/fantasy!
Alright, I already get teased about my name...and now Ms. Minogue has me reading romance and fantasy novels.I had the pleasure of meeting Ms. Minogue at a book signing event recently and I must say she is one of the nicest and most pleasant authors I've ever met.I purchased a few of her books and I am thoroughly impressed.I have never read any books in this genre before, but her writing style kept me glued to the pages.Whether you're into these types of novels or not, you should give them a try.

enchanting
What a truly entertaining novel. The characters come alive, the setting incredibly real. I loved the blossoming love story, as well as the writer's extreme attention to detail. Ms. Minogue is a born story teller. Her writing is rich, with layer upon layer of nuances. Can't wait for the next book.

fine romantic fantasy
King Richard of Valinor commits treachery by attacking Venya.Richard has the ruling monarch and his wife killed, but Sir Ewan and a few other leaders manage to rescue seven year old Prince Florien.

Eighteen years later, Princess Rose of Valinor escapes from her Uncle Richard.She seeks Florien as the only person who might keep her safe since she believes he would never sell her to his enemy her uncle.Rose meets Florien who rejects her contention that she is his enemy's niece, but takes her on his ship, the Quest.

Rose convinces Florien that she is who she claims to be because of her knowledge of the atrocities perpetrated on his people.He still reels from the crushing of his Fheara tribesmen by Richard while the Filidh mages have made their home on another island and want to forget their heritage.Rose tells him that the Fheara feel abandoned by him and the mages.Florien wonders if Rose is part of the prophecy to regain Venya; by marrying her can he regain what he lost as his people will no longer fight for him, but would rally around his courageous Rose who he loves.

This romantic fantasy contains magical elements that seem genuine and add depth especially an exciting Game of Kings contest that will remind fans of the wizards' fight in Disney's The Sword and the Stone.Fans will appreciate the strong female character, but also find fault with the obstinate Florien always insisting on going it alone.Well written so that the audiences of both genres will treasure, but the anticipated confrontation with the villain and the retaking back the Prince's lost land never happens.

Harriet Klausner
... Read more

Product Description
On the deadly border between Scotland and England, the ancient feud between the Darnleys and the Kirallens threatens the love between a woman trapped by fear and the man determined to free her. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

Another wonderful romance by Ms. English
Courtesy of CK2S Kwips and Kritiques

Lady Maude Darnley is known for her sharp temper and often, harsh treatment of others. What no one, save her father and an old healer know, is that she lived through a terrifying act of brutality seven years previous... one, that were people to find out about, she'd be scorned by all. She had once been a happy young lady who went out of her way to extend kindness to others. That traumatic event changed her in such a way that she was an entirely different person.

Ronan Fitzgerald is a roaming minstrel and healer who loves his lifestyle. He'd never be happy confined to one place all his life. When he made a promise to his dying mentor, he never realized how much that would change his life. When he headed to Aylsford Keep, all he had been told was to serve Lord Darnley and help Maude, with no idea of what that would entail.

Ronan discovered, upon arrival at Aylsford, that he may be getting more then he bargained for. He knew nothing of what he would be doing or how to help. Upon meeting Maude, he knew something was different about this woman, and that underneath her harsh demeanor, she held some dreadful secret. He did what he could to help her, until she felt able to trust him with her secret horror. Now, they can begin the real work of her healing, out of which grows a tender love that turns to a fiery passion neither can deny. As the feud grows strong once again, can their love be enough to overcome treacheries of the past?

Once again, Ms. English has proven her skill at weaving a complex story full of passion and adventure, with characters the reader will love. This reviewer was doubtful as to whether or not Maude could be redeemed enough to become a believable heroine, but as it turns out, there was no reason to wonder. Maude's portrayal is beautifully rendered, and the reader can't help but understand and feel for this emotionally scarred woman. It was also delightful to see Ronan finally get a story of his own, after the role he played in Laird of the Mist. These two people are fated to be together, for only then could they both reach their full potential.

Of course, as to be expected in a story by this author, the plot is rich and full of depth. It progresses at a good pace, and every character plays an important role in the tale. It was nice to see the heroes and heroines from the previous two stories in this series as well. They too, add to the story, and one never feels as though they were just added for the sake of a cameo or two.

Emotions of every kind are brought into play. Readers will feel Maude's terror as she lives the horror of that fateful day, and her frustration when she tries to finally remember, but can't. There will be happiness as she comes into her own again, passion as Ronan and Maude discover their love, and finally peace when all is resolved and calm returns to the characters.

One thing that this reviewer felt was never resolved was Maude's recurring dream and why she has it. It plays an integral, though minor part in some scenes, and Ronan tries to interpret it for her, telling her the reason for bringing it to its natural conclusion. Although the dream is finally fully realized, the final interpretation is never explained. This could be because Ms. English wanted the readers to put their own spin on it, but this one would have liked to hear it from the character's perspective, rather then her own.

As always, this tale by Ms. English will satisfy readers. Hopefully, this is not the final story in the series, as there is yet potential for more beautiful romance to be found for assorted members of both the Darnley and Kirallen families. This is one fan who will keep coming back for more, as long as there are stories to tell.

© Kelley A. Hartsell, June 2004. All rights reserved.

Not a WOW but a good read!
Setting - Scottish Borderlands, Chevron Hills, 1379 --- Beginning with a descriptive prologue the reader will at once see that Lady Maude Darnley has reason to have acquired her reputation as being cold, difficult, and despising the male species. Fergus, the healer who found and nursed her physical body back to life, now seven years later, lay dying and disturbed with the knowledge that he hadn't completed the healing.Fergus knew he had no choice but to send his apprentice, the minstrel Ronan Fitzgerald to complete the task he'd left undone and without telling him exactly what he had to heal after having sworn an oath to Lady Maude's father that he would never reveal to another living soul that Maude had been violated.

Ronan Fitzgerald had been a traveling minstrel, with a gift for healing and promised Fergus that he would go to Lord Darnley and do what was asked of him.His introduction to Lady Maude was less than auspicious as with her cutting tongue she did her best to drive him away.Ronan saw beyond the rapier sharp tongue and having an innate sense that made him such a good healer, he saw beneath the bravado and recognized her terror by listening, really listening to the music he heard her play. As he came to care deeply for her, and with the clans ready to annihilate one another at the least provocation, Ronan would have to reach her before her terror would drive her completely over the edge and her father calling an all-out war against the Kirallen's.

THE LINNET is a powerful story of bitter rage and survival.Maude who was depicted in the previous novels (BORDER BRIDE and LAIRD OF THE MIST) as cold and self-centered, in this last of the trilogy is fully exposed and dissected.Ronan, the wandering minstrel, whose loyalties were with the Kirallen's is forced by his oath to Fergus to go to the Darnley's where he happily discovered that there is more to the Lady Maude than most people knew. Intrigued, even though at first attracted by her beauty, he fell in love with her strength and bravery and prays that what skill he has can show her the way to love and trust.

While the author does an admirable job with the characterizations and motivations in this book I, didn't find as much action and adventure in this as the first two novels. What I thought might prove to be a key suspense and motivational factor of a proposed betrothal between Maude and a neighboring laird, it was never developed and just lay there.However, the love story with Ronan was lovely, as Maude learned to trust again, but unlike the first two novels of this series, it does not rate a WOW but simply a good read. --- Submitted by Marilyn Rondeau, Official Reviewer for www.historicalromancewriters.com--

A WONDERFUL BOOK
I really enjoyed this book.I must say, you should read "Border Bride" first.This is where, you first meet Lady Maude (who is horrible to her stepsister, Alyson)Now I Know Why!!!In her next book "Laird of the Mist" we meet Ronan.All of the characters from "Border Bride" and "Laird of the Mist" are in "The Linnet."
"The Linnet", is another fantastic book by Elizabeth English. I hope she writes another sequel.

Not your average romance! My impressions of why it's not! :)
This is a book whose characters will stay with me for a long time. (I appreciate the other reviewer saying that some of these characters are also in Elizabeth's other books -- which now I'll have to go get! And a sequel to these main characters would even be nice- they're that intriguing to me!) Most romance novels that I have read are wondrous "brain candy" and I eat them up with great relish & speed and then move on to the next one. This book gets 5 stars from me because it wouldn't let me read it fast.. it made me want to savor the experience.. and because I won't forget these characters even after I move on to the next book. The heroine's courage and the hero's selflessness were very moving and I appreciated their examples very much.

I saw this book, "The Linnet" in the store and was hooked by the page I saw that has the hero starting out in a cave! The author writes convincingly and tackles a hard-on-the-heroine subject matter not usually found in romance novels. This is a story guided by truths and truths are sometimes hard to take but this author does it well and with grace. By that I mean that she does not shy away from her painful subject matter and instills it with the romance of finding a way back even after hard events in life. The hero and heroine are both people that you want to make it. I loved how the author wove such depth and complexity of her characters in with the historical setting of border feuding, between Scotland and English land owners, that would have allowed such complexity.

I'm sorry for not giving more details of the story line. Besides knowing that other reviewers will do that if that's what you want-- I just don't want to give too much away-- as it's really an experience to read the story for itself and let it unfold as it goes along. Suffice it to say, that the hero and the heroine both have things to overcome and that they help each other through these things, which gives hope that even those who are emotionally and physically scarred can find a lasting and tender love. What better feeling than for an author to give us such a sweet hope.

In many romance novels the story ends with the heroine and the hero happily with or planning their children. I must say that I applaud this unconventional ending!! I was truly moved by the last line of the book (can't remember the last time a romance novel ending left me with such a feeling of poetic satisfaction and so I was inspired to immediately come and write a review.) :)

I for one, am very glad that I purchased this book. I plan to share it with friends rather than trade it in. Thank you for reading my thoughts on it. May your day be as good as a romance ending...especially this one! :)

A Great Story of Love and Healing
Elizabeth English isn't a run-of-the mill romance writer. Her stories have a power and depth that many "standard" romances just don't offer. Not afraid to take chances,in The Linnet Ms. English explores the character of Lady Maude, revealing why her heroine is distant and cold while showing us how love can heal even the most broken of hearts. This book brings the characters Ms. English introduced in The Border Bride full circle in a satisfying conclusion. You'll want to read this one in a single sitting--and you'll be sorry to put it down once you're done. ... Read more

Product Description
A teen girl's guide to life, love, friends, and growing up, in an intimate diary format from Saved By the Bell star and popular teen spokesperson Elizabeth Berkley.

Ask Elizabeth is the complete guide to teen life; the last and only self-help book they'll ever need. Drawn from the many workshops Elizabeth Berkley has conducted with teen girls across the country, Ask Elizabeth brings these revealing and intimate conversations to life on the page.

Much like a private diary, the book is a personal resource that girls can turn to when they seek answers to teen life's toughest questions. It contains real and practical advice, anecdotes, and Elizabeth's own life lessons in answer to frequently asked questions from Elizabeth's workshop, such as: What do you do when you look in the mirror and don't like what you see? or How do you get a guy to know you're alive?

Along with a panel of experts, Elizabeth advises teen girls in matters of sex, nutrition, fitness, body image, personal relationships, and more. ... Read more

Product Description
A teen girl's guide to life, love, friends, and growing up, in an intimate diary format from Saved By the Bell star and popular teen spokesperson Elizabeth Berkley.

Ask Elizabeth is the complete guide to teen life; the last and only self-help book they'll ever need. Drawn from the many workshops Elizabeth Berkley has conducted with teen girls across the country, Ask Elizabeth brings these revealing and intimate conversations to life on the page.

Much like a private diary, the book is a personal resource that girls can turn to when they seek answers to teen life's toughest questions. It contains real and practical advice, anecdotes, and Elizabeth's own life lessons in answer to frequently asked questions from Elizabeth's workshop, such as: What do you do when you look in the mirror and don't like what you see? or How do you get a guy to know you're alive?

Along with a panel of experts, Elizabeth advises teen girls in matters of sex, nutrition, fitness, body image, personal relationships, and more. ... Read more

Product Description
This digital document is an article from Epoca, published by Difusora de Informacion Periodica, S.A. (DINPESA) on February 5, 1996. The length of the article is 887 words. The page length shown above is based on a typical 300-word page. The article is delivered in HTML format and is available in your Amazon.com Digital Locker immediately after purchase. You can view it with any web browser.

Citation Details
Title: "Es muy facil escandalizar a la reprimida Norteamerica": Elizabeth Berkley, protagonista de 'Showgirls'.(TT: Elizabethh Berkley, star of 'Showgirls': "It's easy to shock repressed North Americans")(Interview)
Author: Paloma Aznar
Publication: Epoca (Magazine/Journal)
Date: February 5, 1996
Publisher: Difusora de Informacion Periodica, S.A. (DINPESA)
Issue: n571Page: p76(2)

Article Type: Interview

Distributed by Thomson Gale ... Read more

Product Description
Chapters: Theresa Berkley, Elizabeth Needham, Jane Douglas, Betty Careless, Charlotte Hayes, Mary Jeffries, Emily Robin. Source: Wikipedia. Pages: 35. Not illustrated. Free updates online. Purchase includes a free trial membership in the publisher's book club where you can select from more than a million books without charge. Excerpt: Elizabeth Needham (died 3 May 1731), also known as Mother Needham, was an English procuress and brothel-keeper of 18th-century London, who has been identified as the bawd greeting Moll Hackabout in the first plate of William Hogarth's series of satirical etchings, A Harlot's Progress. Although Needham was notorious in London at the time, little is recorded of her life, and no genuine portraits of her survive. Her house was the most exclusive in London and her customers came from the highest strata of fashionable society, but she eventually ran afoul of the moral reformers of the day and died as a result of the severe treatment she received after being sentenced to stand in the pillory. Nothing is known of Needham's early life, but by the time she was middle-aged she was renowned in London as the keeper of a brothel in Park Place, St. James. Her house was regarded as the most exclusive in London, superior to those of Covent Garden, even to that of the other notorious bawd of the time, Mother Wisebourne. She was said to still be attractive in middle-age; Hogarth described her as a "handsome old Procuress...well dressed in silk", but mentions "patches on her face" and in his picture her face is seen to be pock-marked. She went by a number of aliases: Bird, Howard, Blewitt and Trent are among those ascribed to her, although Mother Bird was also the name of another brothel-keeper who was committed to Newgate Prison with Needham in 1724. Needham was apparently ruthless with the girls and women who worked for her. They were forced to hire their dresses from her, and, if they were unable to pay the e...More: http://booksllc.net/?id=20868375 ... Read more

Product Description
Purchase includes free access to book updates online and a free trial membership in the publisher's book club where you can select from more than a million books without charge. Chapters: Robert Mcnamara, Elizabeth Berkley, Edsel Ford, Colleen Howe, Burr Caswell, William C. Durant, Henry Ford Ii, Derek Rundell, John Francis Dodge, Horace Elgin Dodge, Charles C. Comstock, Amy Courter, Henry Mcmorran, Mary Ellen Sheets, Connie Kalitta, James Frederick Joy, Eber Brock Ward. Excerpt:Amelia S. Courter Major General Amelia S. "Amy" Courter , CAP, is the current National Commander of the Civil Air Patrol . She was elected by a unanimous decision of CAP's National Board on 7 August 2008. Education Amy Courter graduated High School in 1979 with high academic honors. She was a member of the National Honor Society . Courter graduated from Kalamazoo College in 1983 with a bachelor s degree in psychology. She also earned with secondary school teaching certifications in psychology, computer science and mathematics. Courter played Women's Basketball and Field Hockey as a Kalamazoo Hornet, and studied abroad in France at the Université de Strasbourg . Career Before Serving as CAP's National Commander, Courter served as Vice President of information-technology at Valassis , a marketing company in Michigan . Courter has no military service in any branch of the Department of Defense . Civil Air Patrol Service Early career Courter joined Civil Air Patrol as a Senior in High School. She served as Michigan Wing Commander from 1999 to 2002. She also served as the female senior advisor to CAP's National Cadet Advisory Council. While serving as Wing Commander, Courter played a pivotal role in creating a new National Cadet Special Activity , the Civic Leadership Academy. The Civic Leadership Academy gives cadets an in depth view of the United States Government . Courter has also directed the Academy. National Commander Courter was the first female member of CAP to attain the rank of Bri... ... Read more

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Chapters: American Brothel Owners, Australian Brothel-Keepers, British Brothel-Keepers, Texas Guinan, Theresa Berkley, Elizabeth Needham, Caroline Hodgson, Ana Cumpănaş, Lou Graham, Polly Adler, Eunice Gray, Dennis Hof, Jane Douglas, Deborah L. Turbiville, Anna Wilson, Pearl de Vere, Betty Careless, James Colosimo, Libby Thompson, Lulu White, Jack Zuta, Mother Damnable, Everleigh Sisters, Charlotte Hayes, Joe Conforte, Mame Faye, Matild Manukyan, Kath Pettingill, Dora Dufran, Mollie Johnson, Mary Jeffries, Marcus Prinz Von Anhalt, Sally Stanford, Louise Wooster, Belle Brezing, Mike Heitler, Delfina and María de Jesús González, Nina Clifford, Mattie Silks, Big Sue, Hilma Burt, Emily Robin, Minnie White. Source: Wikipedia. Pages: 134. Not illustrated. Free updates online. Purchase includes a free trial membership in the publisher's book club where you can select from more than a million books without charge. Excerpt: Elizabeth Needham (died 3 May 1731), also known as Mother Needham, was an English procuress and brothel-keeper of 18th-century London, who has been identified as the bawd greeting Moll Hackabout in the first plate of William Hogarth's series of satirical etchings, A Harlot's Progress. Although Needham was notorious in London at the time, little is recorded of her life, and no genuine portraits of her survive. Her house was the most exclusive in London and her customers came from the highest strata of fashionable society, but she eventually ran afoul of the moral reformers of the day and died as a result of the severe treatment she received after being sentenced to stand in the pillory. Nothing is known of Needham's early life, but by the time she was middle-aged she was renowned in London as the keeper of a brothel in Park Place, St. James. Her house was regarded as the most exclusive in London, superior to those of Covent Garden, even to that of the other notorious bawd of the time, Mother Wisebourne. She was s...More: http://booksllc.net/?id=20868375 ... Read more

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Chapters: Elizabeth Berkley, Al Jean, Jaime Ray Newman, Kirsten Haglund, Pam Dawber, Aldo Vagnozzi. Source: Wikipedia. Pages: 41. Not illustrated. Free updates online. Purchase includes a free trial membership in the publisher's book club where you can select from more than a million books without charge. Excerpt: Elizabeth Berkley (born July 28, 1972) is an American television, movie, and theatre actress. Her most notable roles were in the television series Saved by the Bell and the 1995 Paul Verhoeven movie Showgirls. Berkley was born and raised in Farmington Hills, Michigan, a community located among Detroit's northern suburbs in Oakland County. She was born with different eye colors. Her right eye is half green and half brown. The other eye is green. She is the daughter of Jere, a gift basket business owner, and Fred Berkley, a lawyer. She graduated from North Farmington High School in Farmington Hills, Michigan, in 1990, after previously having attended the Cranbrook Kingswood School, a private school in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan. Elizabeth is Jewish. From a young age she danced, and she practiced in a room that her parents arranged for her in the basement of their house. In 1982, at the age of ten, she auditioned for the lead role in the film Annie, but was turned down. As her love for dancing increased, she became more interested in pursuing it professionally, traveling to New York to train with other dancers and choreographers. She began to take part in several ballets, including Swan Lake and, in 1983, she appeared in some musicals. Berkley was a teen model for Elite before pursuing an acting career. She made her television movie debut in 1987 with a role in the TV movie Frog and following this, made a number of guest appearances on several television shows. In 1989, at the age of seventeen, she auditioned for the role of Kelly Kapowski in Saved by the Bell, but the producers of the show could not decide whether to...More: http://booksllc.net/?id=235473 ... Read more