Where Do I Go?
Neta Jackson
Thomas Nelson, Dec 2008, $14.99
ISBN: 9781595545237
Gabrielle Fairbanks has been a supermom to their sons and very supportive of her husband’s career at a cost to her own identity. When Gabby and her spouse relocate to Chicago for his job, they agree to leave the kids at boarding school.
However, with the children away at school, Gabby suffers from empty nest syndrome, but is unsure what she wants to do. When she meets a homeless person, Gabby finds a calling and obtains work at Manna House Women’s Shelter. However to her chagrin her husband opposes her work and the new friends she has made; he even has issues with her finding God in her life.
This direct sequel to the recently completed Yada Yada saga includes some of the cast and the beginnings of the same inspirational "House of Hope" messages of “to thine own self be true” by getting involved to help others through God’s forgiveness. The spousal war over who Gabby should be and her asking herself the title question is well designed, but those needing closure will have to wait for the next novel. Fans of Neta Jackson will rejoice with the opening of her new series.
Harriet Klausner
Friday, October 31, 2008
Bedding Down--Kristina Wright, Gwen Masters, Alison Tyler, Marilyn Jaye Lewis, Isabelle Gray, Sophie Mouette and Shanna Germain
Bedding Down
Kristina Wright, Gwen Masters, Alison Tyler, Marilyn Jaye Lewis, Isabelle Gray, Sophie Mouette and Shanna Germain
Avon, Dec 2008, $13.95
ISBN: 9780061560637
"One Night in Winter" by Kristina Wright. Susannah returns home to Minerva where her former lover Derrick reignites their heat.
"Six Weeks at Sunrise Mountain, Colorado" by Gwen Masters. Stressed to the max, burned-out millionaire Fletcher flees for Sunrise Mountain to escape; there he rescues a frozen bruised Janine who in turn rescues his libido and heart.
"It's Not the Weather" by Alison Tyler. Shelly assumes it is her fault that her boyfriend Roger is cold regardless of what she tries; so she gives up on him only to find warmth and passion with Jeremiah.
"Baby, It's Cold Outside" by Marilyn Jaye Lewis. Married couple Kaylie and Connor becomes snowbound, which gives them time to reenact some of their hottest moments.
"Northern Exposure" by Isabelle Gray. Their marriage is over yet neither Alana nor Gideon can move on as each wonders if they should give it one more try.
"Hidden Treasure" by Sophie Mouette. Brenda and Sean discover a treasure, but will they understand what the real treasure is.
"Sweet Season," by Shanna Germain. After being away for awhile, Dulcie returns to her family's maple syrup business only to find Travis is the real sweetener.
Although the plots are paper thin, the lead couples are developed enough to emit plenty of heat for fans to appreciate this wintry erotic septet.
Harriet Klausner
Kristina Wright, Gwen Masters, Alison Tyler, Marilyn Jaye Lewis, Isabelle Gray, Sophie Mouette and Shanna Germain
Avon, Dec 2008, $13.95
ISBN: 9780061560637
"One Night in Winter" by Kristina Wright. Susannah returns home to Minerva where her former lover Derrick reignites their heat.
"Six Weeks at Sunrise Mountain, Colorado" by Gwen Masters. Stressed to the max, burned-out millionaire Fletcher flees for Sunrise Mountain to escape; there he rescues a frozen bruised Janine who in turn rescues his libido and heart.
"It's Not the Weather" by Alison Tyler. Shelly assumes it is her fault that her boyfriend Roger is cold regardless of what she tries; so she gives up on him only to find warmth and passion with Jeremiah.
"Baby, It's Cold Outside" by Marilyn Jaye Lewis. Married couple Kaylie and Connor becomes snowbound, which gives them time to reenact some of their hottest moments.
"Northern Exposure" by Isabelle Gray. Their marriage is over yet neither Alana nor Gideon can move on as each wonders if they should give it one more try.
"Hidden Treasure" by Sophie Mouette. Brenda and Sean discover a treasure, but will they understand what the real treasure is.
"Sweet Season," by Shanna Germain. After being away for awhile, Dulcie returns to her family's maple syrup business only to find Travis is the real sweetener.
Although the plots are paper thin, the lead couples are developed enough to emit plenty of heat for fans to appreciate this wintry erotic septet.
Harriet Klausner
A Baby in the Bunkhouse-Cathy Gillen Thacker
A Baby in the Bunkhouse
Cathy Gillen Thacker
Harlequin American, Dec 2008
ISBN: 0373752415
On his Texas Hill Country ranch, Rafferty Evans behaves like the Grinch who stole Christmas year round; he is a grump if you ask the other cowboys living there. His new cook pregnant Jacey Lambert is driving him crazy with her kindness and caring for everyone even saying nice things to the grouch who makes Oscar look angelic.
However, Rafferty cannot prevent himself from looking forward to Jacey’s good cheer and to his shock he even likes A BABY INN THE BUNKHOUSE even if the infant is not his. As Jacey begins to turn around the crotchety cantankerous cowboy, they begin to fall in love, but to have a happy ending she must persuade him to move past his tormented past into a loving future.
This entertaining Texas ranch romance stars a crank, a baby, and an angel. Jacey’s optimism is contagious as she sees the glass as half filled while Rafferty would spill out the liquid and claim it is totally empty. Although similar to many sub-genre tales fans will enjoy this fine contemporary as Jacey keeps filling up the glass refusing to quit each time Rafferty empties it.
Harriet Klausner
Cathy Gillen Thacker
Harlequin American, Dec 2008
ISBN: 0373752415
On his Texas Hill Country ranch, Rafferty Evans behaves like the Grinch who stole Christmas year round; he is a grump if you ask the other cowboys living there. His new cook pregnant Jacey Lambert is driving him crazy with her kindness and caring for everyone even saying nice things to the grouch who makes Oscar look angelic.
However, Rafferty cannot prevent himself from looking forward to Jacey’s good cheer and to his shock he even likes A BABY INN THE BUNKHOUSE even if the infant is not his. As Jacey begins to turn around the crotchety cantankerous cowboy, they begin to fall in love, but to have a happy ending she must persuade him to move past his tormented past into a loving future.
This entertaining Texas ranch romance stars a crank, a baby, and an angel. Jacey’s optimism is contagious as she sees the glass as half filled while Rafferty would spill out the liquid and claim it is totally empty. Although similar to many sub-genre tales fans will enjoy this fine contemporary as Jacey keeps filling up the glass refusing to quit each time Rafferty empties it.
Harriet Klausner
Once Upon a Christmas-Holly Jacobs
Once Upon a Christmas
Holly Jacobs
Harlequin American, Dec 2008
ISBN: 0373752423
In Erie, Pennsylvania, although only the legal guardian to her nephew Brendan, Michelle Hamilton acts more like the child’s mother and has for five years ever since her sister, his mom, dropped him off explaining she was dying. She loves the lad and would do anything for him; even join the Erie Elementary PTA Social Committee; of course she volunteered when she was too sick to realize what she was doing.
However, when Brendan becomes determined to find his biological father, Michelle is hurt and worried as she fears if the child succeeds, the man will wants custody. Brendan meets his dad Daniel McLean and to her shock Michelle sees he is a terrific male role model. Even more stunning to the “single mom” is the realization she is falling in love with her nephew’s dad after spending several years hiding behind the mommy persona.
Holly Jacobs keeps this engaging Erie Elementary PTA (see ONCE UPON A THANKSGIVING) contemporary romance fresh through three strong protagonists coming together as a family who supersede the often used plot of finding a biological parent. The story line is driven by the changing relationships especially between the adults as each starts off wary and cynical but slowly observe how good the other is with Brendan before knowing they are in love. The fully developed triangle and the support cast make for a fine ONCE UPON A CHRISTMAS tale.
Harriet Klausner
Holly Jacobs
Harlequin American, Dec 2008
ISBN: 0373752423
In Erie, Pennsylvania, although only the legal guardian to her nephew Brendan, Michelle Hamilton acts more like the child’s mother and has for five years ever since her sister, his mom, dropped him off explaining she was dying. She loves the lad and would do anything for him; even join the Erie Elementary PTA Social Committee; of course she volunteered when she was too sick to realize what she was doing.
However, when Brendan becomes determined to find his biological father, Michelle is hurt and worried as she fears if the child succeeds, the man will wants custody. Brendan meets his dad Daniel McLean and to her shock Michelle sees he is a terrific male role model. Even more stunning to the “single mom” is the realization she is falling in love with her nephew’s dad after spending several years hiding behind the mommy persona.
Holly Jacobs keeps this engaging Erie Elementary PTA (see ONCE UPON A THANKSGIVING) contemporary romance fresh through three strong protagonists coming together as a family who supersede the often used plot of finding a biological parent. The story line is driven by the changing relationships especially between the adults as each starts off wary and cynical but slowly observe how good the other is with Brendan before knowing they are in love. The fully developed triangle and the support cast make for a fine ONCE UPON A CHRISTMAS tale.
Harriet Klausner
Scarpetta-Patricia Cornwell
Scarpetta
Patricia Cornwell
Putnam, Dec 2008, $27.95
ISBN: 9780399155161
Kay Scarpetta and Benton Wesley are married and for the first time in their long relationship, they are not only in the same state, they share the same house. She is the medical examiner for the Northeastern District of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and both are guest lecturers at NYC’s John Jay College of Criminal Justice. They also provide free consulting services for agencies to include NYPD.
Oscar Bane, a little person, checks himself into Bellevue after seeing his lover, also a little person, dead; a homicide victim. Benton does a pre evaluation and Oscar reveals he will not talk to anyone except Scarpetta. When she arrives Oscar tells her that “they” are watching him and know every move he makes. He also tells her to find a disc hidden in his apartment so she will know he is not paranoid. The police believe Bone killed his significant other, but Scarpetta based on forensics does not even believe he warrants a warrant. Further research reveals other people were killed in a similar fashion; each wearing an ankle bracelet. Kay, Lucy, prosecutor Jaime Berger, and investigator Pete Marino begin to seek a serial killer who enjoys torture and murder.
It has been two decades since Scarpetta was introduced and over that time the characters have changed and grown. Bonds have formed and others broken; now Kay and Benton take the next step in their relationship. However as always in this great series, SCARPETTA is first and foremost a superb crime thriller filled with action though character driven. Readers will fully enjoy the heroine and her horde’s latest adventures as Patricia Cornwell affirms why she is this reviewer’s favorite crime thriller author.
Harriet Klausner
Patricia Cornwell
Putnam, Dec 2008, $27.95
ISBN: 9780399155161
Kay Scarpetta and Benton Wesley are married and for the first time in their long relationship, they are not only in the same state, they share the same house. She is the medical examiner for the Northeastern District of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and both are guest lecturers at NYC’s John Jay College of Criminal Justice. They also provide free consulting services for agencies to include NYPD.
Oscar Bane, a little person, checks himself into Bellevue after seeing his lover, also a little person, dead; a homicide victim. Benton does a pre evaluation and Oscar reveals he will not talk to anyone except Scarpetta. When she arrives Oscar tells her that “they” are watching him and know every move he makes. He also tells her to find a disc hidden in his apartment so she will know he is not paranoid. The police believe Bone killed his significant other, but Scarpetta based on forensics does not even believe he warrants a warrant. Further research reveals other people were killed in a similar fashion; each wearing an ankle bracelet. Kay, Lucy, prosecutor Jaime Berger, and investigator Pete Marino begin to seek a serial killer who enjoys torture and murder.
It has been two decades since Scarpetta was introduced and over that time the characters have changed and grown. Bonds have formed and others broken; now Kay and Benton take the next step in their relationship. However as always in this great series, SCARPETTA is first and foremost a superb crime thriller filled with action though character driven. Readers will fully enjoy the heroine and her horde’s latest adventures as Patricia Cornwell affirms why she is this reviewer’s favorite crime thriller author.
Harriet Klausner
Demon's Hunger-Eve Silver
Demon's Hunger
Eve Silver
Forever, Dec 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 0446618934
In New Orleans Dain Hawkins and his Compact of Sorcerer cohorts seek Hybrid humans who allow Demons to take over their bodies. They are concerned that the Solitary special demon is making an effort to cross the line between his realm and the human world; and has the help of Asher the Ancient Sorcerer who betrayed his oath. Dain collects gris gris voodoo bags with bones inside and plans to visit University of Toronto at Mississippi assistant anthropology professor Dr, Vivian Cairn for her take on his collection. He and his peers also seek a serial sexual killer, who they believe is a rare succubus.
Vivian feels relief that her mom’s latest visit ended though she loves her single mom. Still she wonders why her dad left them when she was two years old leaving behind a velvet bag and a photo of him. Over the years she has found more gris gris bags. However, her big fear is once again twelve hours of her life vanished without her knowing what she did.
Dane and two other sorcerers arrive at Vivian’s home to consult with her. Dane and Vivian are instantly attracted to one another, but he refuses to act on these feelings fearing the same fate for her as his human wife and daughter who were murdered centuries ago. Vivian realizes he is her dream lover. A demon and hybrids attack them; Dane kills the demon and his friends the hybrids. She is not sure what is going on, but uses her skill to stay emotionally detached though she desperately wants Dane, who insists she stay at his home so he can protect her.
This excellent romantic fantasy works because of the relationship between the lead couple and the belief that demons, half-breeds, sorcerers and succubus are genuine. The lost time is a brilliant spin that will leave readers marveling and there are other terrific twists involving the heroine and her mom. Although a pet peeve that the villain Asher boasts to one of his former cohorts much of his plan instead of acting, the audience will enjoy this superb thriller.
Harriet Klausner
Eve Silver
Forever, Dec 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 0446618934
In New Orleans Dain Hawkins and his Compact of Sorcerer cohorts seek Hybrid humans who allow Demons to take over their bodies. They are concerned that the Solitary special demon is making an effort to cross the line between his realm and the human world; and has the help of Asher the Ancient Sorcerer who betrayed his oath. Dain collects gris gris voodoo bags with bones inside and plans to visit University of Toronto at Mississippi assistant anthropology professor Dr, Vivian Cairn for her take on his collection. He and his peers also seek a serial sexual killer, who they believe is a rare succubus.
Vivian feels relief that her mom’s latest visit ended though she loves her single mom. Still she wonders why her dad left them when she was two years old leaving behind a velvet bag and a photo of him. Over the years she has found more gris gris bags. However, her big fear is once again twelve hours of her life vanished without her knowing what she did.
Dane and two other sorcerers arrive at Vivian’s home to consult with her. Dane and Vivian are instantly attracted to one another, but he refuses to act on these feelings fearing the same fate for her as his human wife and daughter who were murdered centuries ago. Vivian realizes he is her dream lover. A demon and hybrids attack them; Dane kills the demon and his friends the hybrids. She is not sure what is going on, but uses her skill to stay emotionally detached though she desperately wants Dane, who insists she stay at his home so he can protect her.
This excellent romantic fantasy works because of the relationship between the lead couple and the belief that demons, half-breeds, sorcerers and succubus are genuine. The lost time is a brilliant spin that will leave readers marveling and there are other terrific twists involving the heroine and her mom. Although a pet peeve that the villain Asher boasts to one of his former cohorts much of his plan instead of acting, the audience will enjoy this superb thriller.
Harriet Klausner
Wicked is the Night- Catherine Mulvaney
Wicked is the Night
Catherine Mulvaney
Pocket, Dec 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 1416525580
Racing car driver Patrick “Trick Granger is fortunate to be alive even though his career is over because he injured his knee. He and his assistant Marcello Bellini are driving from Tahoe to Placerville where he recently inherited a home that was once a brothel and is now haunted by nineteenth century hooker turned ghost Blanche.
Nevada White knows two men are after her since she escaped from the Appleton Institute. When a trucker tosses her from his van, Trick notices and gets Marcello to rescue her. She is upset as she lost a gold amulet; her only item from her mom, whoever she was. Nevada has some psychic skills, but they are not helping her remember.
They stop at a truck stop and she leaves them. When she sees the two thugs pursuing her at truck stop, she sneaks back into Trick’s car. Trick finds the man who deserted Nevada on the road dead with tons of blood everywhere. Trick and Marcello continue their drive, but are stopped by Detectives Branson and Collier who insist they are looking for an escaped killer who murdered her father. Trick sends them towards Sacramento as he refuses to believe Nevada is a killer. Over the next few days he tries to protect her, he knows someone wants her dead, but not whom; as they struggle to figure out just who is Nevada White.
The relationship between the lead couple is terrific as they are attracted to one another, but her lack of a past makes her hesitate to trust anyone. Ccritical to the strong paranormal romantic suspense plot are vampires seems real; especially how messy they can be when they dine on humans. Although not enough explanation on the Appleton Research Facility is provided and for someone with a bad knee, Trick gets around rather easily, sub-genre readers will relish this fine thriller.
Harriet Klausner
Catherine Mulvaney
Pocket, Dec 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 1416525580
Racing car driver Patrick “Trick Granger is fortunate to be alive even though his career is over because he injured his knee. He and his assistant Marcello Bellini are driving from Tahoe to Placerville where he recently inherited a home that was once a brothel and is now haunted by nineteenth century hooker turned ghost Blanche.
Nevada White knows two men are after her since she escaped from the Appleton Institute. When a trucker tosses her from his van, Trick notices and gets Marcello to rescue her. She is upset as she lost a gold amulet; her only item from her mom, whoever she was. Nevada has some psychic skills, but they are not helping her remember.
They stop at a truck stop and she leaves them. When she sees the two thugs pursuing her at truck stop, she sneaks back into Trick’s car. Trick finds the man who deserted Nevada on the road dead with tons of blood everywhere. Trick and Marcello continue their drive, but are stopped by Detectives Branson and Collier who insist they are looking for an escaped killer who murdered her father. Trick sends them towards Sacramento as he refuses to believe Nevada is a killer. Over the next few days he tries to protect her, he knows someone wants her dead, but not whom; as they struggle to figure out just who is Nevada White.
The relationship between the lead couple is terrific as they are attracted to one another, but her lack of a past makes her hesitate to trust anyone. Ccritical to the strong paranormal romantic suspense plot are vampires seems real; especially how messy they can be when they dine on humans. Although not enough explanation on the Appleton Research Facility is provided and for someone with a bad knee, Trick gets around rather easily, sub-genre readers will relish this fine thriller.
Harriet Klausner
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Divorced, Desperate and Dating-Christie Craig
Divorced, Desperate and Dating
Christie Craig
Love Spell, Dec 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780505527325
The kiss was everything but proved to be nothing. Houston Detective Jason Dodd kissed writer Sue Finley leaving her wanting more from him and wasted for anyone else. Thus when he fails to follow up, Sue is heartbroken calling him a jerk for never calling her and plotting murder with poison.
Jason grew up as a foster child so does not trust relationships even if his heart pleads with him to take a chance on Sue. He feels safer to keep his distance. However, when he learns someone is stalking Sue, he can no longer run from his feelings. Still in spite of protecting her Jason keeps his heart hidden even as Sue wants to know why because she can see by his looks he wants her too.
This is an entertaining character driven romantic suspense sequel to DIVORCED, DESPERATE AND DELICIOUS. The stalking subplot serves as a matchmaker of sorts as Sue does not hide her desire from Jason whom obviously wants her too, but flees even when next to her somewhere inside his mind. Jason makes the tale with his fear that relationships end rapidly and poorly so as a psychological defense mechanism he avoids them as if they are the plague. Fans will enjoy Christie Craig’s charming lighthearted frolic as the author refuses to accept no thanks even if their relationship proves to be a bridge to nowhere.
Harriet Klausner
Christie Craig
Love Spell, Dec 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780505527325
The kiss was everything but proved to be nothing. Houston Detective Jason Dodd kissed writer Sue Finley leaving her wanting more from him and wasted for anyone else. Thus when he fails to follow up, Sue is heartbroken calling him a jerk for never calling her and plotting murder with poison.
Jason grew up as a foster child so does not trust relationships even if his heart pleads with him to take a chance on Sue. He feels safer to keep his distance. However, when he learns someone is stalking Sue, he can no longer run from his feelings. Still in spite of protecting her Jason keeps his heart hidden even as Sue wants to know why because she can see by his looks he wants her too.
This is an entertaining character driven romantic suspense sequel to DIVORCED, DESPERATE AND DELICIOUS. The stalking subplot serves as a matchmaker of sorts as Sue does not hide her desire from Jason whom obviously wants her too, but flees even when next to her somewhere inside his mind. Jason makes the tale with his fear that relationships end rapidly and poorly so as a psychological defense mechanism he avoids them as if they are the plague. Fans will enjoy Christie Craig’s charming lighthearted frolic as the author refuses to accept no thanks even if their relationship proves to be a bridge to nowhere.
Harriet Klausner
A Deadly Silver Sea-Bob Morris
A Deadly Silver Sea
Bob Morris
St. Martin's Dec 2008, $24.95
ISBN 9780312377250
In Florida, former NFL player and ex con Zack Chasteen is contented to run a palm tree nursery, as long as his beloved travel magazine owner Barbara Pickering is with him. He especially looks forward to the birth of their first child in about a month.
Zack, Barbara and many affluent people are sailing on the luxurious cruise ship Royal Star on its maiden voyage; his invitation comes from being classy Barbara’s escort, which serves a reminder of how far he has come. Soon after the Royal Star embarks from Miami, gunmen kill most of the crew and take control of the vessel. After the passengers are separated by gender, Zack tries to get the men to join him on a blitzkrieg, but he end up in the drink while Barbara goes into premature labor.
The latest Zack Casteen thriller (see BERMUDA SCHWARTZ, BAHAMARAMA and JAMAICA ME DEAD) is as fast-paced as its predecessors, but lacks the originality of the previous tales with Cussler's Pitt novels and movies like Under Siege. Zack’s usual amusing cynical asides also seem out of place in a scenario in which his about to give birth beloved is in deep peril. Still he is an interesting mix as a sarcastic moralistic antihero struggling to rally the civilians at sea against deadly pirates making his current under siege escapade fun for his fans.
Harriet Klausner
Bob Morris
St. Martin's Dec 2008, $24.95
ISBN 9780312377250
In Florida, former NFL player and ex con Zack Chasteen is contented to run a palm tree nursery, as long as his beloved travel magazine owner Barbara Pickering is with him. He especially looks forward to the birth of their first child in about a month.
Zack, Barbara and many affluent people are sailing on the luxurious cruise ship Royal Star on its maiden voyage; his invitation comes from being classy Barbara’s escort, which serves a reminder of how far he has come. Soon after the Royal Star embarks from Miami, gunmen kill most of the crew and take control of the vessel. After the passengers are separated by gender, Zack tries to get the men to join him on a blitzkrieg, but he end up in the drink while Barbara goes into premature labor.
The latest Zack Casteen thriller (see BERMUDA SCHWARTZ, BAHAMARAMA and JAMAICA ME DEAD) is as fast-paced as its predecessors, but lacks the originality of the previous tales with Cussler's Pitt novels and movies like Under Siege. Zack’s usual amusing cynical asides also seem out of place in a scenario in which his about to give birth beloved is in deep peril. Still he is an interesting mix as a sarcastic moralistic antihero struggling to rally the civilians at sea against deadly pirates making his current under siege escapade fun for his fans.
Harriet Klausner
A Body to Die For-G.A. McKevett
A Body to Die For
G.A. McKevett
Kensington, Jan 2009, $22.00
ISBN 9780758215543
In San Carmelita, California, plus-sized Moonlight and Magnolia Detective Agency private investigator Savannah Reid and police detective Sergeant. Dirk Coulter team up to catch a peeping Tom at Clarissa's House of Pain and Gain. Soon after that success, insufferable diet queen Clarissa Jardin informs the police that her rascally husband Bill is missing.
Not long after that Bill is found dead with a bullet in his head; Dirk leads the official investigation. Bill’s mother believes her daughter-in-law killed her son. She hires Savannah expecting her to prove Clarissa was involved in Bill’s homicide. Savannah agrees with her client’s theory as the victim was cheating on his spouse and spending her hard earned money gambling. Cooperating, Savannah and Dirk uncover several other people with strong motives especially Clarissa's obese twin sister.
Filled with humor and terrific asides, the latest Reid whodunit is a fabulous investigative tale in what is consistently a strong entertaining series (see POISONED TARTS). The investigation is cleverly designed to keep readers guessing re the twin vs. someone else, but the fun comes from the teaming of Reid and Coulter as the heroine makes it clear you can have your cake and eat it too (in moderation and with not guilt or remorse).
Harriet Klausner
G.A. McKevett
Kensington, Jan 2009, $22.00
ISBN 9780758215543
In San Carmelita, California, plus-sized Moonlight and Magnolia Detective Agency private investigator Savannah Reid and police detective Sergeant. Dirk Coulter team up to catch a peeping Tom at Clarissa's House of Pain and Gain. Soon after that success, insufferable diet queen Clarissa Jardin informs the police that her rascally husband Bill is missing.
Not long after that Bill is found dead with a bullet in his head; Dirk leads the official investigation. Bill’s mother believes her daughter-in-law killed her son. She hires Savannah expecting her to prove Clarissa was involved in Bill’s homicide. Savannah agrees with her client’s theory as the victim was cheating on his spouse and spending her hard earned money gambling. Cooperating, Savannah and Dirk uncover several other people with strong motives especially Clarissa's obese twin sister.
Filled with humor and terrific asides, the latest Reid whodunit is a fabulous investigative tale in what is consistently a strong entertaining series (see POISONED TARTS). The investigation is cleverly designed to keep readers guessing re the twin vs. someone else, but the fun comes from the teaming of Reid and Coulter as the heroine makes it clear you can have your cake and eat it too (in moderation and with not guilt or remorse).
Harriet Klausner
Night of the Loving Dead-Casey Daniels
Night of the Loving Dead
Casey Daniels
Berkley, Jan 2009, $6.99
ISBN: 9780425225554
Cemetery tour guide Pepper Martin was in the Garden View Cemetery when she knocked her head accidentally on a tombstone. When she regained consciousnesses, she was able to see ghosts; spirits of those who were murdered and unable to move on. They demand Pepper find their killers and bring them to justice so they can pass peacefully to the next level. She reluctantly investigates the claims because when she refuses they haunt her every living moment.
When Pepper goes to Chicago on business, she stops at the Greenland Cemetery where she meets the spirit of lab coated Madeline Tremayne, who pleads with her that their mutual friend Dr. Dan Callahan is in danger from his boss Dr. Hilton Gerard who is using him as the fall guy for the Feds to devour for their inquiry into misappropriation of funds. Knowing Dan once saved her life and how painfully persistent ghosts are, Pepper investigates learning that Dr. Dan is working on a new program in which the disenfranchised enter but never leave. As she obtains proof of the goings-on, a malevolent spirit turns Pepper into one of the disenbidied unable to help anyone even herself.
Anyone who believes communicating with ghosts would be fun, need to ask the heroine whose experience with the “gift” leaves her traumatic and seemingly always in danger; this is not sharing tea or lattes. Still her courage and desire, albeit reluctant, to help others endears Pepper to the reader. Her latest investigation is fast-paced, dangerous and somewhat personal; as NIGHT OF THE LOVING DEAD is a charming amusing paranormal amateur sleuth.
Harriet Klausner
Casey Daniels
Berkley, Jan 2009, $6.99
ISBN: 9780425225554
Cemetery tour guide Pepper Martin was in the Garden View Cemetery when she knocked her head accidentally on a tombstone. When she regained consciousnesses, she was able to see ghosts; spirits of those who were murdered and unable to move on. They demand Pepper find their killers and bring them to justice so they can pass peacefully to the next level. She reluctantly investigates the claims because when she refuses they haunt her every living moment.
When Pepper goes to Chicago on business, she stops at the Greenland Cemetery where she meets the spirit of lab coated Madeline Tremayne, who pleads with her that their mutual friend Dr. Dan Callahan is in danger from his boss Dr. Hilton Gerard who is using him as the fall guy for the Feds to devour for their inquiry into misappropriation of funds. Knowing Dan once saved her life and how painfully persistent ghosts are, Pepper investigates learning that Dr. Dan is working on a new program in which the disenfranchised enter but never leave. As she obtains proof of the goings-on, a malevolent spirit turns Pepper into one of the disenbidied unable to help anyone even herself.
Anyone who believes communicating with ghosts would be fun, need to ask the heroine whose experience with the “gift” leaves her traumatic and seemingly always in danger; this is not sharing tea or lattes. Still her courage and desire, albeit reluctant, to help others endears Pepper to the reader. Her latest investigation is fast-paced, dangerous and somewhat personal; as NIGHT OF THE LOVING DEAD is a charming amusing paranormal amateur sleuth.
Harriet Klausner
Tall, Dark, and Kilted-Allie Mackay
Tall, Dark, and Kilted
Allie Mackay
Signet, Nov 2008
ISBN: 978045122551
After her lover dumped her for an odious but wealthy replacement and her rival killed her jewelry business, Cilla Swanner left Yardley, Pennsylvania to spend the summer with her Uncle Mac and Aunt Birdie at their Scottish retirement home Dunroamin Castle. Cilla does not miss her ex even an iota and in fact feels relived, but she is worried that her family will lose the castle.
Hundreds of years ago, Scottish knight Sir Hardwin de Studely is hosting some important VIPs when a travel bard asked for hospitality. Fearing for the lives of his guests, he refused. The bard being a wizard cursed Hardwick as he is called by friends to suffer a different lover for eternity. Over the centuries, he has become disillusioned, but the Dark One gives him a chance for redemption if he avoids arousal for a year; if he fails he will please the darkest females. The problem for the now chaste Hardwick is his attraction to Cilla; who makes matters worse as she is falling in love with the ghost haunting her uncle’s castle.
TALL, DARK, AND KILTED is an engaging urban romantic fantasy with a touch of a mystery and a terific twist in which Hardwick fled to the remote retirement home to avoid young women only to fall in love with the Sword of Damocles hanging over both his heads. The story line is brisk and breezy from the moment the ghost and the American meet and never slows down. With a strong cast, paranormal and human, fans will enjoy Cilla’s Scottish adventure in love.
Harriet Klausner
Allie Mackay
Signet, Nov 2008
ISBN: 978045122551
After her lover dumped her for an odious but wealthy replacement and her rival killed her jewelry business, Cilla Swanner left Yardley, Pennsylvania to spend the summer with her Uncle Mac and Aunt Birdie at their Scottish retirement home Dunroamin Castle. Cilla does not miss her ex even an iota and in fact feels relived, but she is worried that her family will lose the castle.
Hundreds of years ago, Scottish knight Sir Hardwin de Studely is hosting some important VIPs when a travel bard asked for hospitality. Fearing for the lives of his guests, he refused. The bard being a wizard cursed Hardwick as he is called by friends to suffer a different lover for eternity. Over the centuries, he has become disillusioned, but the Dark One gives him a chance for redemption if he avoids arousal for a year; if he fails he will please the darkest females. The problem for the now chaste Hardwick is his attraction to Cilla; who makes matters worse as she is falling in love with the ghost haunting her uncle’s castle.
TALL, DARK, AND KILTED is an engaging urban romantic fantasy with a touch of a mystery and a terific twist in which Hardwick fled to the remote retirement home to avoid young women only to fall in love with the Sword of Damocles hanging over both his heads. The story line is brisk and breezy from the moment the ghost and the American meet and never slows down. With a strong cast, paranormal and human, fans will enjoy Cilla’s Scottish adventure in love.
Harriet Klausner
Fractions-Ken MacLeod
Fractions
Ken MacLeod
Orb (Tor), Oct 28 2008, $19.95
ISBN: 0765320681
The Star Fraction. By 2040, the Kingdom of Great Britain lays in ruins divided into independent states due to the policies of the leftist Labour Party. Some of these new entities are no bigger than a few city streets and run by gang-lords while others like the Army of the New Republic control a vast area. Marxist gun for hire physical security expert Moh Kohn, computer scientist Janis Taine, terrorist Catherine Duvalier and teenage atheist Jordan Brown meet when Moh is assigned to protect Janis and her lab from the fundamentalist Stasis who control technology and have ruled that her work needs to be destroyed. After several Stasis assaults, the foursome decide they must take out an evil artificial intelligence if they are to survive.
The Stone Canal. Political rivals Jonathan Wilde and Dave Reid both love Annette, but the former marries her. Over time Jonathan drifts to the extreme left while Dave turns towards the anarchist’s credo. Their competition grows more heated with Annette still in play. Wilde wakes up near a canal where Jay-Dub the robot informs him he is a clone with the original Wilde's memories downloaded into the replica. Reid runs the Martian colony, but the Wilde clone remembers his rival being there when he was assassinated. Worse Reid has a clone of Annette. Round two is commencing.
This is a reprint of the “The First Half of The Fall Revolution” with the second part to come soon. The tales retain their fresh creativity though both were published in the mid 1990s. Each is fast-paced with the worlds, a futuristic dismal earth and a Mars colony after a loss in WW III, seem genuine even with clones and AI machines. The additional fun for Ken Macleod fans is to see the leap in skill from his first to second novel as each is entertaining but THE STONE CANAL is much tighter despite containing two major subplots.
Harriet Klausner
Ken MacLeod
Orb (Tor), Oct 28 2008, $19.95
ISBN: 0765320681
The Star Fraction. By 2040, the Kingdom of Great Britain lays in ruins divided into independent states due to the policies of the leftist Labour Party. Some of these new entities are no bigger than a few city streets and run by gang-lords while others like the Army of the New Republic control a vast area. Marxist gun for hire physical security expert Moh Kohn, computer scientist Janis Taine, terrorist Catherine Duvalier and teenage atheist Jordan Brown meet when Moh is assigned to protect Janis and her lab from the fundamentalist Stasis who control technology and have ruled that her work needs to be destroyed. After several Stasis assaults, the foursome decide they must take out an evil artificial intelligence if they are to survive.
The Stone Canal. Political rivals Jonathan Wilde and Dave Reid both love Annette, but the former marries her. Over time Jonathan drifts to the extreme left while Dave turns towards the anarchist’s credo. Their competition grows more heated with Annette still in play. Wilde wakes up near a canal where Jay-Dub the robot informs him he is a clone with the original Wilde's memories downloaded into the replica. Reid runs the Martian colony, but the Wilde clone remembers his rival being there when he was assassinated. Worse Reid has a clone of Annette. Round two is commencing.
This is a reprint of the “The First Half of The Fall Revolution” with the second part to come soon. The tales retain their fresh creativity though both were published in the mid 1990s. Each is fast-paced with the worlds, a futuristic dismal earth and a Mars colony after a loss in WW III, seem genuine even with clones and AI machines. The additional fun for Ken Macleod fans is to see the leap in skill from his first to second novel as each is entertaining but THE STONE CANAL is much tighter despite containing two major subplots.
Harriet Klausner
Daemon-Daniel Suarez
Daemon
Daniel Suarez
Dutton, Jan 2009, $25.95
ISBN 9780525951117
At thirty four years of age, Matthew Sobol, the genius behind successful CyberStorm Entertainment dies from brain cancer. However, the brilliant game maestro would not allow something as petty as death preveng him from causing global havoc from the grave. He somehow kicked off a war from cyberpsace against mankind.
Concerned authorities enter Sobol's mansion in Thousand Oaks, California only to find themselves under attack in spite of the fact that no human is inside or on the grounds; the police suffer several deaths as they retreat. Sobol has left behind the greatest weapon of mass destruction ever created; his daemon computer processor has taken control of most of the world’s major computer systems and has signed up brilliant quisling humans as foot soldiers to carry out the plan for world domination.
DAEMON is a fabulous futuristic AI technology thriller as the twisted but brilliant late computer game creator Sobol sets in motion a doomsday machine after he dies. The story line is fast-paced from the onset even with complex vernacular as Daniel Suarez assumes his audience can do more than breath and chew gum refusing to dumb down his tale. Readers will relish this superb science fiction book with a great finish that sets up AI part two.
Harriet Klausner
Daniel Suarez
Dutton, Jan 2009, $25.95
ISBN 9780525951117
At thirty four years of age, Matthew Sobol, the genius behind successful CyberStorm Entertainment dies from brain cancer. However, the brilliant game maestro would not allow something as petty as death preveng him from causing global havoc from the grave. He somehow kicked off a war from cyberpsace against mankind.
Concerned authorities enter Sobol's mansion in Thousand Oaks, California only to find themselves under attack in spite of the fact that no human is inside or on the grounds; the police suffer several deaths as they retreat. Sobol has left behind the greatest weapon of mass destruction ever created; his daemon computer processor has taken control of most of the world’s major computer systems and has signed up brilliant quisling humans as foot soldiers to carry out the plan for world domination.
DAEMON is a fabulous futuristic AI technology thriller as the twisted but brilliant late computer game creator Sobol sets in motion a doomsday machine after he dies. The story line is fast-paced from the onset even with complex vernacular as Daniel Suarez assumes his audience can do more than breath and chew gum refusing to dumb down his tale. Readers will relish this superb science fiction book with a great finish that sets up AI part two.
Harriet Klausner
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Eclipse-Richard North Patterson
Eclipse
Richard North Patterson
Holt, Jan 2009, $26.00
ISBN: 9780805087727
San Francisco law firm partner forty years old Damon Pierce is getting a divorce. The international litigation expert e-mails his college lover Marissa Brand to inform him that his marriage will be over by tomorrow although he knows she is married to oil rich Luandia reformist Bobby Okari whose country is run by a brutal despot.
While the foreign oil companies work closely with the government to rip off the oil deposits, everyone in Okari's village is murdered. However the government ignores the mass murders because they are the culprits; instead they arrest Bobby for the lynching of three foreign oil workers. Damon, out of love for Marissa, defends the accused in a kangaroo court that has already convicted him.
Few authors can hook an audience and maintain that grip throughout like Richard North Patterson does consistently. ECLIPSE affirms that belief especially with the haunting working and environmental conditions in Luandia that is the main star; even Governor Palin will shout the manta wind baby wind if she spent fifteen minutes getting her hair fixed there. The story line is fast-paced and filled with action that fans of legal thrillers in foreign nations in which the dictator makes the law will appreciate Mr. Patterson’s latest exciting tale.
Harriet Klausner
Richard North Patterson
Holt, Jan 2009, $26.00
ISBN: 9780805087727
San Francisco law firm partner forty years old Damon Pierce is getting a divorce. The international litigation expert e-mails his college lover Marissa Brand to inform him that his marriage will be over by tomorrow although he knows she is married to oil rich Luandia reformist Bobby Okari whose country is run by a brutal despot.
While the foreign oil companies work closely with the government to rip off the oil deposits, everyone in Okari's village is murdered. However the government ignores the mass murders because they are the culprits; instead they arrest Bobby for the lynching of three foreign oil workers. Damon, out of love for Marissa, defends the accused in a kangaroo court that has already convicted him.
Few authors can hook an audience and maintain that grip throughout like Richard North Patterson does consistently. ECLIPSE affirms that belief especially with the haunting working and environmental conditions in Luandia that is the main star; even Governor Palin will shout the manta wind baby wind if she spent fifteen minutes getting her hair fixed there. The story line is fast-paced and filled with action that fans of legal thrillers in foreign nations in which the dictator makes the law will appreciate Mr. Patterson’s latest exciting tale.
Harriet Klausner
Dead or Alive-Michael McGarrity
Dead or Alive
Michael McGarrity
Dutton, Jan 2009, $25.95
ISBN 9780525950813
Escaped psychopathic convict Craig Larson goes on a killing rampage murdering everyone it seems in his path. Among the victims is Riley Burke, business partner to former Santa Fe police chief Kevin Kerney.
Outraged by the Burke death and just back from London where his spouse works in the American embassy, Kerney vows to bring the maniac to justice. However that pledge is easier said than done, as Larson leaves corpses in several southwest states. Working as a temporary New Mexico State Police special investigator, Kerney and his son Lincoln County Sheriff’s Department Lieutenant Clayton Istee lead a state wide manhunt.
The keys to this wild manhunt are the relationship between the father and son law enforcement pair who only recently learned of their DNA connection and the deep look at multi-jurisdiction police investigations. The story line is fast-paced and filled with much more blood than the usual Kerney whodunit (see NOTHING BUT TROUBLE) and a strong sense of locale that would have pleased the late Tony Hillerman. In some macabre ways Larson steals the show as he makes the plot with his murderous spree that turns what looks like a blue state red.
Harriet Klausner
Michael McGarrity
Dutton, Jan 2009, $25.95
ISBN 9780525950813
Escaped psychopathic convict Craig Larson goes on a killing rampage murdering everyone it seems in his path. Among the victims is Riley Burke, business partner to former Santa Fe police chief Kevin Kerney.
Outraged by the Burke death and just back from London where his spouse works in the American embassy, Kerney vows to bring the maniac to justice. However that pledge is easier said than done, as Larson leaves corpses in several southwest states. Working as a temporary New Mexico State Police special investigator, Kerney and his son Lincoln County Sheriff’s Department Lieutenant Clayton Istee lead a state wide manhunt.
The keys to this wild manhunt are the relationship between the father and son law enforcement pair who only recently learned of their DNA connection and the deep look at multi-jurisdiction police investigations. The story line is fast-paced and filled with much more blood than the usual Kerney whodunit (see NOTHING BUT TROUBLE) and a strong sense of locale that would have pleased the late Tony Hillerman. In some macabre ways Larson steals the show as he makes the plot with his murderous spree that turns what looks like a blue state red.
Harriet Klausner
Running Hot-Jayne Ann Krentz
Running Hot
Jayne Ann Krentz
Putnam, Jan 2009, $24.95
ISBN 9780399155215
The psychic investigative firm Jones & Jones sends Arcane Society member Grace Renquist, who can envision the evil in a person’s aura to Hawaii to uncover the identity of a serial killer. To protect the librarian who will be out in the cold for the first time, they hire former cop currently tending bar Luther Malone as her bodyguard, who can abort a person’s evil thoughts before they can perform an odious deed.
Luther and Grace are attracted to one another from their first meeting. However, in Hawaii they know to table their passion and focus on the killer. They quickly learn that others seek the psychopath too; from the drug stimulated malevolent Nightshades to psychic hunter opera diva La Sirene, whose voice kills.
Although obviously over the top of Mauna Kea, RUNNING HOT is a fast-paced exhilarating romantic suspense that grips the audience from the moment the lead couple meets and never takes a breather until the concluding implication that sequels will follow. Ms. Krentz’s fans will enjoy this serial murder mystery investigation that turns into much more dangerous and evil than a psychopath on the loose.
Harriet Klausner
Jayne Ann Krentz
Putnam, Jan 2009, $24.95
ISBN 9780399155215
The psychic investigative firm Jones & Jones sends Arcane Society member Grace Renquist, who can envision the evil in a person’s aura to Hawaii to uncover the identity of a serial killer. To protect the librarian who will be out in the cold for the first time, they hire former cop currently tending bar Luther Malone as her bodyguard, who can abort a person’s evil thoughts before they can perform an odious deed.
Luther and Grace are attracted to one another from their first meeting. However, in Hawaii they know to table their passion and focus on the killer. They quickly learn that others seek the psychopath too; from the drug stimulated malevolent Nightshades to psychic hunter opera diva La Sirene, whose voice kills.
Although obviously over the top of Mauna Kea, RUNNING HOT is a fast-paced exhilarating romantic suspense that grips the audience from the moment the lead couple meets and never takes a breather until the concluding implication that sequels will follow. Ms. Krentz’s fans will enjoy this serial murder mystery investigation that turns into much more dangerous and evil than a psychopath on the loose.
Harriet Klausner
The Spoke-Friedrich Glauser
The Spoke
Friedrich Glauser
Bitter Lemon, Jan 2009, $14.95
ISBN 9781904738275
In Bern Swiss police Detective Sergeant Jakob Studer and his wife have traveled to Schwarzenstein to attend the marriage of their daughter. However, in the Hôtel zum Hirschen where they are staying someone stabs to death Jean Stieger using a sharpened bicycle spoke.
The local police arrest the only suspect, bicycle store mechanic and peddler Ernst Graf. However, Studer believes the murder weapon is not enough to prove Graf did the deed. Soon afterward while Graf remains in custody, someone poisons Stieger’s boss and partner , financier Joachim Krock. Studer investigates the two homicides, applying a logic that confuses the local cops, but leads to several suspects with motives for both murders.
The latest reprint of the 1930s Studer Swiss police procedural series is, like the previous four, a fabulous investigative tale. Studer is at his best working what appears to be a closed locked room case in which his progress in finding other suspects besides Graf with means, motive and opportunity alienates him with the locals and frustrates his wife on vacation and daughter preparing to marry. The Jakob Studer collection holds up as strong mysteries with an obvious historical perspectvie seven decades after they were initially released (see IN MATTO'S REALM, FEVER THUMBPRINT and THE CHINAMAN).
Harriet Klausner
Friedrich Glauser
Bitter Lemon, Jan 2009, $14.95
ISBN 9781904738275
In Bern Swiss police Detective Sergeant Jakob Studer and his wife have traveled to Schwarzenstein to attend the marriage of their daughter. However, in the Hôtel zum Hirschen where they are staying someone stabs to death Jean Stieger using a sharpened bicycle spoke.
The local police arrest the only suspect, bicycle store mechanic and peddler Ernst Graf. However, Studer believes the murder weapon is not enough to prove Graf did the deed. Soon afterward while Graf remains in custody, someone poisons Stieger’s boss and partner , financier Joachim Krock. Studer investigates the two homicides, applying a logic that confuses the local cops, but leads to several suspects with motives for both murders.
The latest reprint of the 1930s Studer Swiss police procedural series is, like the previous four, a fabulous investigative tale. Studer is at his best working what appears to be a closed locked room case in which his progress in finding other suspects besides Graf with means, motive and opportunity alienates him with the locals and frustrates his wife on vacation and daughter preparing to marry. The Jakob Studer collection holds up as strong mysteries with an obvious historical perspectvie seven decades after they were initially released (see IN MATTO'S REALM, FEVER THUMBPRINT and THE CHINAMAN).
Harriet Klausner
Divine Justice-David Baldacci
Divine Justice
David Baldacci
Grand Central, Nov 2008, $27.99
ISBN: 0446195502
Joe Knox scans two homicide scenes in which he concludes a professional sniper took out DC super VIPs, Intel Chief Carter Gray and US Senator from Alabama Roger Simpson. At the same time Joe concludes the same sniper did both murders and that the Intel community was hiding something, former CIA assassin Oliver Stone takes the Amtrak train from Union Station heading to New Orleans after killing the two government superheavyweights who murdered his wife and for all intent and purposes buried his real identity John Carr with her.
Unable to mind his business, Stone intercedes in a fight on the train, but when the Amtrak conductor asks for a picture identification, he knows he must disembark ASAP because he will be exposed as a fake with minimal examination. He ends up in the mining town of Divine, Virginia where once again his tendency to get involved in a David vs. Goliath good cause gets him in trouble with high level corruption and a widow in peril.
The latest Camel Club thriller (see THE COLLECTORS , STONE COLD and THE CAMEL CLUB) is an exciting tale that fans of the series will relish as Stone’s code of justice makes him act when he should remain passively in the background. He cannot help himself when he took out the VIPS, on the train or in Divine. Although somewhat formulaic in the mining town reminiscent of Spencer Tracey in Bad Day At Black Rock and Steven Seagal in Fire Down Below, readers will enjoy Stone’s latest escapades.
Harriet Klausner
David Baldacci
Grand Central, Nov 2008, $27.99
ISBN: 0446195502
Joe Knox scans two homicide scenes in which he concludes a professional sniper took out DC super VIPs, Intel Chief Carter Gray and US Senator from Alabama Roger Simpson. At the same time Joe concludes the same sniper did both murders and that the Intel community was hiding something, former CIA assassin Oliver Stone takes the Amtrak train from Union Station heading to New Orleans after killing the two government superheavyweights who murdered his wife and for all intent and purposes buried his real identity John Carr with her.
Unable to mind his business, Stone intercedes in a fight on the train, but when the Amtrak conductor asks for a picture identification, he knows he must disembark ASAP because he will be exposed as a fake with minimal examination. He ends up in the mining town of Divine, Virginia where once again his tendency to get involved in a David vs. Goliath good cause gets him in trouble with high level corruption and a widow in peril.
The latest Camel Club thriller (see THE COLLECTORS , STONE COLD and THE CAMEL CLUB) is an exciting tale that fans of the series will relish as Stone’s code of justice makes him act when he should remain passively in the background. He cannot help himself when he took out the VIPS, on the train or in Divine. Although somewhat formulaic in the mining town reminiscent of Spencer Tracey in Bad Day At Black Rock and Steven Seagal in Fire Down Below, readers will enjoy Stone’s latest escapades.
Harriet Klausner
Midnight Sins-Cynthia Eden
Midnight Sins
Cynthia Eden
Kensington Brava, Dec 2008, $14.00
ISBN: 0758226047
The homicides are horrifying because they look somewhat innocent as if a tryst of two consenting adults left one behind tied to a bed. However, the victims all men may have appeared ready for a wild night of tough love, but somehow their essence is sucked from them leaving them dead with not a scratch or any evidence of foul play except for the corpse.
Police Detective Todd Brooks leads the investigation into the serial sex murders but has no clues until amidst the clothing of a victim is found the ID of Cara Firon. Todd brings Cara to the station for questioning. To his shock the men trip over each other to accommodate her; more stunning is he is the worst of those ready to her bidding. Cara tries to control her succubus pheromones with little success as the humans covet her, but she finds it more difficult controlling her desire for the human cop suspecting her as a serial killer.
This fast-paced paranormal romantic police procedural works because the two key elements, the murder investigation and the existence of supernatural beings seem real as each side enhances the other leading to an entertaining whodunit. Todd is superb as he is no nonsense professional working a difficult case that bewilders him, but his biggest confusion is how the testosterone back in the station has overflowed once Cara enters; he kicks himself because he is no better than the others though he conceals his tent pole better. Cara is an excellent prime suspect who can’t help but bringing out the male in the men. Cynthia Eden provides a delightful urban romantic investigative fantasy that sub-genre fans will relish and want more in this milieu.
Harriet Klausner
Cynthia Eden
Kensington Brava, Dec 2008, $14.00
ISBN: 0758226047
The homicides are horrifying because they look somewhat innocent as if a tryst of two consenting adults left one behind tied to a bed. However, the victims all men may have appeared ready for a wild night of tough love, but somehow their essence is sucked from them leaving them dead with not a scratch or any evidence of foul play except for the corpse.
Police Detective Todd Brooks leads the investigation into the serial sex murders but has no clues until amidst the clothing of a victim is found the ID of Cara Firon. Todd brings Cara to the station for questioning. To his shock the men trip over each other to accommodate her; more stunning is he is the worst of those ready to her bidding. Cara tries to control her succubus pheromones with little success as the humans covet her, but she finds it more difficult controlling her desire for the human cop suspecting her as a serial killer.
This fast-paced paranormal romantic police procedural works because the two key elements, the murder investigation and the existence of supernatural beings seem real as each side enhances the other leading to an entertaining whodunit. Todd is superb as he is no nonsense professional working a difficult case that bewilders him, but his biggest confusion is how the testosterone back in the station has overflowed once Cara enters; he kicks himself because he is no better than the others though he conceals his tent pole better. Cara is an excellent prime suspect who can’t help but bringing out the male in the men. Cynthia Eden provides a delightful urban romantic investigative fantasy that sub-genre fans will relish and want more in this milieu.
Harriet Klausner
The Scorpion-Warren Stockholm
The Scorpion
Warren Stockholm
Pop Pulp Books (KHP), Oct 2008, $9.99
ISBN: 9780979988158
In an alternate universe Nazi Germany defeated the Allies and occupied the losing nations including America for sixty years until the economy tanked causing a war in which America forced the oppressors to leave. Everything is being built up and growth is everywhere even in Steeltown. New rules allow crime to thrive with one dirty operation running a slave trade child porn ring. Women vanish with their abused bodies found in record numbers.
Watching over the city is The Scorpion who stalks and attacks evil men. He is a German super soldier created by the Third Reich but he escaped to the United States. He thinks of Steeltown as his town and plans to clean it up from criminals and predators. He uses his extraordinary skills to kill those malevolent humans harming others. Yet his past catches up to him when he realizes someone he once called brother is now a vile monster needing to be eradicated.
Readers who enjoy pulp fiction thrillers with an homage to Captain America will enjoy the entertaining THE SCORPION. The fast-paced story line vividly describes through a somewhat horrifying lens a small American town of the future five years after the Nazi occupiers have left. The hero is a tortured soul struggling to control his berserker tendency, a critical element of becoming a super soldier. No Bucky sidekick for him; he is alone even when surrounded by allies because he trusts no one, not even himself. Fans will appreciate the adventures of the Scorpion and look forward to more pulp escapades.
Harriet Klausner
Warren Stockholm
Pop Pulp Books (KHP), Oct 2008, $9.99
ISBN: 9780979988158
In an alternate universe Nazi Germany defeated the Allies and occupied the losing nations including America for sixty years until the economy tanked causing a war in which America forced the oppressors to leave. Everything is being built up and growth is everywhere even in Steeltown. New rules allow crime to thrive with one dirty operation running a slave trade child porn ring. Women vanish with their abused bodies found in record numbers.
Watching over the city is The Scorpion who stalks and attacks evil men. He is a German super soldier created by the Third Reich but he escaped to the United States. He thinks of Steeltown as his town and plans to clean it up from criminals and predators. He uses his extraordinary skills to kill those malevolent humans harming others. Yet his past catches up to him when he realizes someone he once called brother is now a vile monster needing to be eradicated.
Readers who enjoy pulp fiction thrillers with an homage to Captain America will enjoy the entertaining THE SCORPION. The fast-paced story line vividly describes through a somewhat horrifying lens a small American town of the future five years after the Nazi occupiers have left. The hero is a tortured soul struggling to control his berserker tendency, a critical element of becoming a super soldier. No Bucky sidekick for him; he is alone even when surrounded by allies because he trusts no one, not even himself. Fans will appreciate the adventures of the Scorpion and look forward to more pulp escapades.
Harriet Klausner
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Alluring Tales-Cathryn Fox, Delilah Devlin, Lisa Renee Jones, Myla Jackson, Sasha White, Sylvia Day and Vivi Anna
Alluring Tales
Cathryn Fox, Delilah Devlin, Lisa Renee Jones, Myla Jackson, Sasha White, Sylvia Day and Vivi Anna
Avon, Nov 2008, $13.95
ISBN: 9780061463174
"Peaches and Cream" by Cathryn Fox. Jennifer is a bartender at Risque pretending to be Peaches the exotic dancer when she meets Jack the research scientist in order to explore her fantasies.
"Indecent Exposure" by Delilah Devlin. Harmony returns home to seduce Sheriff Dalton; her fantasy since high school.
"Forbidden Fruit" by Lisa Renee Jones. Ryan has always been hard whenever he saw his best friend's sister Kelli who has always been wet and hot when she saw him; now she plans to take him her style.
"Billboard Babe" by Myla Jackson. Prim and proper Angie starts an erotic ad campaign to win a sexual evening or three with co-worker Daniel.
"Wish Upon a Star" by Sasha White. Professional dominatrix Miss Sarah wishes upon a star for someone to truly love; Nealon bikes in from out of this world.
“That Old Black Magic" by Sylvia Day. Warlock Max is despondent with grief when his beloved mate Victoria apparently died and he tries all sorts of magic to bring her back to him; however he begins to obsess instead over the feline-female familiar who recently entered his life.
"Silver Waters" by Vivi Anna. On the run, Sangria and Vance take a heated break in the Caribbean.
These seven fun erotic tales are mostly spice with a sprinkle in spite of being very short for any happenings beyond the sexual encounters that run the gamut from ménage a trois, S&M bondage, and anal.
Harriet Klausner
Cathryn Fox, Delilah Devlin, Lisa Renee Jones, Myla Jackson, Sasha White, Sylvia Day and Vivi Anna
Avon, Nov 2008, $13.95
ISBN: 9780061463174
"Peaches and Cream" by Cathryn Fox. Jennifer is a bartender at Risque pretending to be Peaches the exotic dancer when she meets Jack the research scientist in order to explore her fantasies.
"Indecent Exposure" by Delilah Devlin. Harmony returns home to seduce Sheriff Dalton; her fantasy since high school.
"Forbidden Fruit" by Lisa Renee Jones. Ryan has always been hard whenever he saw his best friend's sister Kelli who has always been wet and hot when she saw him; now she plans to take him her style.
"Billboard Babe" by Myla Jackson. Prim and proper Angie starts an erotic ad campaign to win a sexual evening or three with co-worker Daniel.
"Wish Upon a Star" by Sasha White. Professional dominatrix Miss Sarah wishes upon a star for someone to truly love; Nealon bikes in from out of this world.
“That Old Black Magic" by Sylvia Day. Warlock Max is despondent with grief when his beloved mate Victoria apparently died and he tries all sorts of magic to bring her back to him; however he begins to obsess instead over the feline-female familiar who recently entered his life.
"Silver Waters" by Vivi Anna. On the run, Sangria and Vance take a heated break in the Caribbean.
These seven fun erotic tales are mostly spice with a sprinkle in spite of being very short for any happenings beyond the sexual encounters that run the gamut from ménage a trois, S&M bondage, and anal.
Harriet Klausner
To Sin with a Stranger-Kathryn Caskie
To Sin with a Stranger
Kathryn Caskie
Avon, Dec 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780061491009
Their father disgusted with their scandals that has earned them the reputation as the “Seven Deadly Sins” has exiled his offspring and warned them if they do not shape up they will inherit nothing beyond what the law allows. None of the unholy seven Sinclair children take him seriously as he has threatened them before, but they do feel the loss of income since he has cut off the purse.
His heir Sterling keeps himself and his brothers and sisters at a reasonable level of respectability and less significant from starving by prizefighting at Gentleman Jackson’s London gym. Miss Isobel Carrington enters the establishment to ask the wealthy male patrons to donate to her charity. Isobel is attracted to Sterling, but rejects him as being too avaricious to care one iota about the less fortunate. At White’s betting ignites that Sterling who is pursuing her will marry her. She reconsiders her opinion of his being a greedy aristocrat when she realizes he is boxing to support his siblings, but still fears letting her heart go to a man who placed a bet on him winning her.
The gender battle between Isobel and Sterling is an entertaining Regency romance as each is intelligent, knows whet they want, and what they will do to achieve their desires. Although Sterling’s sin is greed, his willingness to take hits for his siblings proves otherwise and has Isobel reconsidering his worth. Fans will enjoy this lighthearted historical while looking forward to more tales starring other Seven Deadly Sins’ siblings.
Harriet Klausner
Kathryn Caskie
Avon, Dec 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780061491009
Their father disgusted with their scandals that has earned them the reputation as the “Seven Deadly Sins” has exiled his offspring and warned them if they do not shape up they will inherit nothing beyond what the law allows. None of the unholy seven Sinclair children take him seriously as he has threatened them before, but they do feel the loss of income since he has cut off the purse.
His heir Sterling keeps himself and his brothers and sisters at a reasonable level of respectability and less significant from starving by prizefighting at Gentleman Jackson’s London gym. Miss Isobel Carrington enters the establishment to ask the wealthy male patrons to donate to her charity. Isobel is attracted to Sterling, but rejects him as being too avaricious to care one iota about the less fortunate. At White’s betting ignites that Sterling who is pursuing her will marry her. She reconsiders her opinion of his being a greedy aristocrat when she realizes he is boxing to support his siblings, but still fears letting her heart go to a man who placed a bet on him winning her.
The gender battle between Isobel and Sterling is an entertaining Regency romance as each is intelligent, knows whet they want, and what they will do to achieve their desires. Although Sterling’s sin is greed, his willingness to take hits for his siblings proves otherwise and has Isobel reconsidering his worth. Fans will enjoy this lighthearted historical while looking forward to more tales starring other Seven Deadly Sins’ siblings.
Harriet Klausner
Never Dare a Duke-Gayle Callen
Never Dare a Duke
Gayle Callen
Avon, Dec 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780061235061
Abigail Shaw realistically looks at her father's failing newspaper and knows only one thing can save the family’s journalistic enterprise, a meaty scandal. Titillating sensationalism sells papers as the Ton loves to read about a scandal hammering at a peer. She selects the cleanest reputation she knows of because if she can find dirt on Lord Christopher Cabot, the sales will be through the roof.
Going undercover Abigail obtains an invitation to a party hosted by her targeted duke in which he plans to select one of the attendees as his bride. However, Christopher is attracted to Abigail, who to her chagrin, reciprocates. She offers to help him find his spouse by them pretending a dalliance. The only problems are it is not pretending and the scandal she has uncovered on Christopher has her included in the crosshairs.
This is a fun lighthearted historical romance starring two interesting individuals especially the undercover investigative reporter. Using Rovian logic to go after the strengths of your opponent, Abby picks Christopher, which leads to a series of amusing encounters and love as the heroine learns to NEVER DARE A DUKE; they will accept the challenge and double dare you back.
Harriet Klausner
Gayle Callen
Avon, Dec 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780061235061
Abigail Shaw realistically looks at her father's failing newspaper and knows only one thing can save the family’s journalistic enterprise, a meaty scandal. Titillating sensationalism sells papers as the Ton loves to read about a scandal hammering at a peer. She selects the cleanest reputation she knows of because if she can find dirt on Lord Christopher Cabot, the sales will be through the roof.
Going undercover Abigail obtains an invitation to a party hosted by her targeted duke in which he plans to select one of the attendees as his bride. However, Christopher is attracted to Abigail, who to her chagrin, reciprocates. She offers to help him find his spouse by them pretending a dalliance. The only problems are it is not pretending and the scandal she has uncovered on Christopher has her included in the crosshairs.
This is a fun lighthearted historical romance starring two interesting individuals especially the undercover investigative reporter. Using Rovian logic to go after the strengths of your opponent, Abby picks Christopher, which leads to a series of amusing encounters and love as the heroine learns to NEVER DARE A DUKE; they will accept the challenge and double dare you back.
Harriet Klausner
Everything but a Wedding-Holly Jacobs
Everything but a Wedding
Holly Jacobs
Avalon, Dec 2008
ISBN: 0803499248
Elderly Hungarian matriarch Nana Vancy still regrets the “curse” she issued when she was young and in love with Bela Salo who failed to show up their wedding on time due to an accident. Now decades later her misgivings turn to fear as she worries about bad things happening at Salo family weddings since she angrily cursed big weddings, Bela and his relatives especially since she has proof with two of her grandchildren (see EVERYTHING BUT A BRIDE and EVERYTHING BUT A GROOM).
Her last hope to see the curse defeated in her lifetime resides with her last grandchild Pennsylvania developer Dori Salo. However, Dori shows no interest in men ever since her former boyfriend ended their relationship. Instead perhaps as a mental defense mechanism Dori puts all her energies on the Erie Hazard Hills housing development. Also on the project is architect Carter Hastings IV who pretends to be Bill the interior designer as he wants Dori to hire his cousin CeCe’s firm to design the interior of the model homes. However as they fall in love he must admit his deception and she must challenge the curse.
Returning to Erie, site of her WLVH Radio Romance saga (see LAUGH LINES, NIGHT CALLS, LOVE HANDLES and PICKUP LINES) as well as the prime locale of the Everything But saga, Holly Jacobs provides a charming contemporary romance. The enjoyable story line is fun starting with the likable lead characters although he appears to have committed a professional ethics violation. They in turn are supported by a strong cast of returning characters and the “curse”. Readers will enjoy Holly Jacobs' fine lighthearted tale that contains everything to warm the heart over the holidays.
Harriet Klausner
Holly Jacobs
Avalon, Dec 2008
ISBN: 0803499248
Elderly Hungarian matriarch Nana Vancy still regrets the “curse” she issued when she was young and in love with Bela Salo who failed to show up their wedding on time due to an accident. Now decades later her misgivings turn to fear as she worries about bad things happening at Salo family weddings since she angrily cursed big weddings, Bela and his relatives especially since she has proof with two of her grandchildren (see EVERYTHING BUT A BRIDE and EVERYTHING BUT A GROOM).
Her last hope to see the curse defeated in her lifetime resides with her last grandchild Pennsylvania developer Dori Salo. However, Dori shows no interest in men ever since her former boyfriend ended their relationship. Instead perhaps as a mental defense mechanism Dori puts all her energies on the Erie Hazard Hills housing development. Also on the project is architect Carter Hastings IV who pretends to be Bill the interior designer as he wants Dori to hire his cousin CeCe’s firm to design the interior of the model homes. However as they fall in love he must admit his deception and she must challenge the curse.
Returning to Erie, site of her WLVH Radio Romance saga (see LAUGH LINES, NIGHT CALLS, LOVE HANDLES and PICKUP LINES) as well as the prime locale of the Everything But saga, Holly Jacobs provides a charming contemporary romance. The enjoyable story line is fun starting with the likable lead characters although he appears to have committed a professional ethics violation. They in turn are supported by a strong cast of returning characters and the “curse”. Readers will enjoy Holly Jacobs' fine lighthearted tale that contains everything to warm the heart over the holidays.
Harriet Klausner
Scent of Danger-Doranna Durgin
Scent of Danger
Doranna Durgin
Five Star, Dec 2008, $25.95
ISBN: 9781594146756
Former Buckeye, Dr. Dale Kinsall is still adjusting to life in West Winoza, just outside of Flagstaff, Arizona. He finds his staff at the Foothills Veterinary Clinic professional but eccentrically amusing except when they wear animal scrotums as earrings; that sort of feels painful. He also is half in love with another veterinarian Laura Nakai who he hoped would join his practice, but did not.
As the clinic is being renovated and Dale semi exiled due to asthma, he begins receiving weird warning notes written in rhyme, but placed in such away that someone with full clinic access was dropping them off. Laura becomes concerned when her young second cousin becomes deathly ill from hanta fever. As the notes keep coming, Dale and his sidekick Sully the mouse eating Beagle work on the case of the notes even as he saves Laura’s life when she comes down with hanta fever.
Although the mystery is thin and comes late, fans will enjoy this fun Arizona cozy due to the eccentric cast. Fans will be fascinated that Dale is in the local police dog house for solving a recent case (see NOSE FOR TROUBLE) instead of them. The support cast adds to the character driven plot as Dale with Sully follow the SCENT OF DANGER.
Harriet Klausner
Doranna Durgin
Five Star, Dec 2008, $25.95
ISBN: 9781594146756
Former Buckeye, Dr. Dale Kinsall is still adjusting to life in West Winoza, just outside of Flagstaff, Arizona. He finds his staff at the Foothills Veterinary Clinic professional but eccentrically amusing except when they wear animal scrotums as earrings; that sort of feels painful. He also is half in love with another veterinarian Laura Nakai who he hoped would join his practice, but did not.
As the clinic is being renovated and Dale semi exiled due to asthma, he begins receiving weird warning notes written in rhyme, but placed in such away that someone with full clinic access was dropping them off. Laura becomes concerned when her young second cousin becomes deathly ill from hanta fever. As the notes keep coming, Dale and his sidekick Sully the mouse eating Beagle work on the case of the notes even as he saves Laura’s life when she comes down with hanta fever.
Although the mystery is thin and comes late, fans will enjoy this fun Arizona cozy due to the eccentric cast. Fans will be fascinated that Dale is in the local police dog house for solving a recent case (see NOSE FOR TROUBLE) instead of them. The support cast adds to the character driven plot as Dale with Sully follow the SCENT OF DANGER.
Harriet Klausner
One Silent Night-Sherrilyn Kenyon
One Silent Night
Sherrilyn Kenyon
St. Martin’s, Nov 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 0312947062
Daimon Stryker, leader of the vile army of demons and vampires, is obsessed with one thing; destroying Acheron and Nick Gautier and the Dark-Hunters for their killing his sister. He loathes his two enemies so much Stryker vows to do whatever it takes to kill them. However, even his supporters fear the deranged Stryker has gone too far when he makes a Faustian deal with the Titan god War. He will free the imprisoned War in exchange for the God killing Acheron and Nick.
Artemis, realizing the potential danger to Ash, “frees” Stryker's supposedly dead ex-wife, Zephyra, who has an agenda of vengeance also against her former husband who deserted her and their daughter Medea. Stryker is stunned to learn he has a warrior daughter while War begins the assault on Ash and Nick. The stake is a world as strange bedfellows line up on both sides for what appears to be the final battle.
Throughout the Dark-Hunters saga, vile villain Stryker has been in some ways the most interesting character; sort of like a Darth Vader who mostly displays evil but once in a while shockingly seems to care. This is his tale, which means 98% fantasy thriller. Fans of the great mythos will not be disappointed as Stryker gets a taste of vengeance from the untamable shrew. He celebrated her death when he thought she was out of his life. This is a great entry in one of the best epic fantasies of the past decade.
Harriet Klausner
Sherrilyn Kenyon
St. Martin’s, Nov 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 0312947062
Daimon Stryker, leader of the vile army of demons and vampires, is obsessed with one thing; destroying Acheron and Nick Gautier and the Dark-Hunters for their killing his sister. He loathes his two enemies so much Stryker vows to do whatever it takes to kill them. However, even his supporters fear the deranged Stryker has gone too far when he makes a Faustian deal with the Titan god War. He will free the imprisoned War in exchange for the God killing Acheron and Nick.
Artemis, realizing the potential danger to Ash, “frees” Stryker's supposedly dead ex-wife, Zephyra, who has an agenda of vengeance also against her former husband who deserted her and their daughter Medea. Stryker is stunned to learn he has a warrior daughter while War begins the assault on Ash and Nick. The stake is a world as strange bedfellows line up on both sides for what appears to be the final battle.
Throughout the Dark-Hunters saga, vile villain Stryker has been in some ways the most interesting character; sort of like a Darth Vader who mostly displays evil but once in a while shockingly seems to care. This is his tale, which means 98% fantasy thriller. Fans of the great mythos will not be disappointed as Stryker gets a taste of vengeance from the untamable shrew. He celebrated her death when he thought she was out of his life. This is a great entry in one of the best epic fantasies of the past decade.
Harriet Klausner
The Messenger-Jan Burke
The Messenger
Jan Burke
Simon & Schuster,Jan 2009, $25.00
ISBN 9780743273879
At the Battle of Waterloo, twenty something British officer Tyler Hawthorne is severely wounded. While still on the battlefield, Lord Lucien Adrian deVille gives his probably dying brother in arms a ring with stipulations. The ring brings immortality to the bearer but the individual must spend eternity comforting those near death. He also is given a companion to protect him, Shade the cemetery dog.
Almost two centuries later, a Caribbean salvage diver working a vessel sunk in 1815 finds Adrian's remains. Upon returning to the surface Adrian revives and propels his rescuer to help him find Tyler. He succeeds and Adrian travels to Los Angeles to see how his crony is doing. Tyler still tends to his work this time assisting a leukemia patient. However, the still twentyish looking Tyler is in love for the first time in his over two hundred year existence. His cares for heiress Amanda Clarke, who survived a horrific accident that wiped out her family but enabled her to see ghosts; she struggles with survivor guilt, but is attracted to Tyler. Adrian a “messenger” of evil is coming to cause problems for the couple and his dog Shade.
This is a terrific paranormal thriller that grips the audience from the moment that Adrian arrives at Tyler’s side on the battlefield and never slows down once the time and place switch from the Napoleonic Wars through the deep sea rescue to mdoern day America. The story line is fast-paced with the key trio plus the canine seeming genuine even with their supernatural abilities. Jan Burke provides a strong horror tale that fans will appreciate.
Harriet Klausner
Jan Burke
Simon & Schuster,Jan 2009, $25.00
ISBN 9780743273879
At the Battle of Waterloo, twenty something British officer Tyler Hawthorne is severely wounded. While still on the battlefield, Lord Lucien Adrian deVille gives his probably dying brother in arms a ring with stipulations. The ring brings immortality to the bearer but the individual must spend eternity comforting those near death. He also is given a companion to protect him, Shade the cemetery dog.
Almost two centuries later, a Caribbean salvage diver working a vessel sunk in 1815 finds Adrian's remains. Upon returning to the surface Adrian revives and propels his rescuer to help him find Tyler. He succeeds and Adrian travels to Los Angeles to see how his crony is doing. Tyler still tends to his work this time assisting a leukemia patient. However, the still twentyish looking Tyler is in love for the first time in his over two hundred year existence. His cares for heiress Amanda Clarke, who survived a horrific accident that wiped out her family but enabled her to see ghosts; she struggles with survivor guilt, but is attracted to Tyler. Adrian a “messenger” of evil is coming to cause problems for the couple and his dog Shade.
This is a terrific paranormal thriller that grips the audience from the moment that Adrian arrives at Tyler’s side on the battlefield and never slows down once the time and place switch from the Napoleonic Wars through the deep sea rescue to mdoern day America. The story line is fast-paced with the key trio plus the canine seeming genuine even with their supernatural abilities. Jan Burke provides a strong horror tale that fans will appreciate.
Harriet Klausner
Keepers of the Dead-Bob Freeman
Keepers of the Dead
Bob Freeman
Black Death Books, Oct 2008
ISBN: 9780979988141
The Circle of Nine Skulls, founded by Garrick Ward, and made up of Immortals, battle the Dark waiting for the final the end of times battle. Garrick believes his warriors and allies are ready, but the insidious Dark is working on defeating those groups before they can come to his aid.
Cairnwood Manor, the home of the Ash Lawn werewolf pack, is allies of the light. Michael has recently taken over as the leader, but everyone is surprised when another werewolf pack attacks them; he is the first casualty falling into a coma. The enemy has come to find the magical artifacts to bring to their master; they will succeed for sure if Michael fails to awaken. Even if he does, his side remains precariously near defeat as he will have to venture to the realm of his long time enemy Malcolm MacGregor the vampire who holds his beloved hostage.
Meanwhile the evil forces gather at Avebury where they use eldritch powers to call up the Old Gods and to raise an army of zombies. Two malevolent vampire hordes vie for supremacy as everyone from the Dark side to Garrick and his allies’ heads for a showdown perhaps the final one at Rosslyn Chapel.
Bob Freeman has written an electrifying horror thriller that in some ways is a throwback to the classic Castle horror moves albeit faster paced (some might say frenzied) and bloodier as vampires are villains and werewolves are heroes. Reminiscent also of Stephen King’s early works, readers will enjoy the supernatural war. Although the cast of seemingly zillions can become a bit overwhelming, several control the story line bringing focus to the hyper-speeding novel. Michael is the key; as he comes into his own as a leader and warrior but must return to the living if he is to be there for the last battle; without him all is lost while with him all still probably is lost. Vividly described, KEEPERS OF THE DEAD would make an exciting horror movie.
Harriet Klausner
Bob Freeman
Black Death Books, Oct 2008
ISBN: 9780979988141
The Circle of Nine Skulls, founded by Garrick Ward, and made up of Immortals, battle the Dark waiting for the final the end of times battle. Garrick believes his warriors and allies are ready, but the insidious Dark is working on defeating those groups before they can come to his aid.
Cairnwood Manor, the home of the Ash Lawn werewolf pack, is allies of the light. Michael has recently taken over as the leader, but everyone is surprised when another werewolf pack attacks them; he is the first casualty falling into a coma. The enemy has come to find the magical artifacts to bring to their master; they will succeed for sure if Michael fails to awaken. Even if he does, his side remains precariously near defeat as he will have to venture to the realm of his long time enemy Malcolm MacGregor the vampire who holds his beloved hostage.
Meanwhile the evil forces gather at Avebury where they use eldritch powers to call up the Old Gods and to raise an army of zombies. Two malevolent vampire hordes vie for supremacy as everyone from the Dark side to Garrick and his allies’ heads for a showdown perhaps the final one at Rosslyn Chapel.
Bob Freeman has written an electrifying horror thriller that in some ways is a throwback to the classic Castle horror moves albeit faster paced (some might say frenzied) and bloodier as vampires are villains and werewolves are heroes. Reminiscent also of Stephen King’s early works, readers will enjoy the supernatural war. Although the cast of seemingly zillions can become a bit overwhelming, several control the story line bringing focus to the hyper-speeding novel. Michael is the key; as he comes into his own as a leader and warrior but must return to the living if he is to be there for the last battle; without him all is lost while with him all still probably is lost. Vividly described, KEEPERS OF THE DEAD would make an exciting horror movie.
Harriet Klausner
Monday, October 27, 2008
Four in Hand-Stephanie Laurens
Four in Hand
Stephanie Laurens
HQN, Dec 2008
ISBN: 9780373773091
After a decade as a womanizing viscount with a temper when disturbed, Max Rotherbridge is now the Duke of Twyford. To him it is no big deal as he will continue his prime role as the most notorious aristocratic rake.
The thirty-four years old aristocrat will soon realize how wrong he is about his new inheritance. Besides the title and all its affluence and influence, he learns the hard way of a slightly different bequest when a young Miss Caroline Twinning visits him. He angrily goes to see her and she assumes he is too young and obviously rakish to be the Duke she needs to see. However, he is so she plows on by informing him she and her three sisters are his wards. Making matters worse, Max is attracted to the courageous Caro who diverts his temper from her pretty younger siblings onto her.
This reprint of a 1990s Regency romance is a forerunner of the talented Stephanie Laurens multiple stories like the Bastian Club and the Cynsters. However, unlike those sagas broken into several novels each, FOUR IN HAND is overwhelmed by a cast belonging in a Cecil De Mille movie with several relationships making it difficult to focus on the prime one. Still this is an intriguing tale that showcases the talent of Ms. Laurens as she juggles several romances.
Harriet Klausner
Stephanie Laurens
HQN, Dec 2008
ISBN: 9780373773091
After a decade as a womanizing viscount with a temper when disturbed, Max Rotherbridge is now the Duke of Twyford. To him it is no big deal as he will continue his prime role as the most notorious aristocratic rake.
The thirty-four years old aristocrat will soon realize how wrong he is about his new inheritance. Besides the title and all its affluence and influence, he learns the hard way of a slightly different bequest when a young Miss Caroline Twinning visits him. He angrily goes to see her and she assumes he is too young and obviously rakish to be the Duke she needs to see. However, he is so she plows on by informing him she and her three sisters are his wards. Making matters worse, Max is attracted to the courageous Caro who diverts his temper from her pretty younger siblings onto her.
This reprint of a 1990s Regency romance is a forerunner of the talented Stephanie Laurens multiple stories like the Bastian Club and the Cynsters. However, unlike those sagas broken into several novels each, FOUR IN HAND is overwhelmed by a cast belonging in a Cecil De Mille movie with several relationships making it difficult to focus on the prime one. Still this is an intriguing tale that showcases the talent of Ms. Laurens as she juggles several romances.
Harriet Klausner
Dangerous Prey-Lindsay McKenna
Dangerous Prey
Lindsay McKenna
Harlequin HQN, Dec 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780373773213
Flying a helicopter is something that Kelly Trayhern loves. Working for Bates International, a fire suppression company, she is exhausted after nine trips from Cottonwood Airport near Sedona into a blaze; the tenth ended in a crash caused by a sudden burst of smoke blinding her; the two men with her were trapped inside an inferno. Her joy of flying died with her co-pilot and the Forest Service Ranger; as she vows to never pilot a helicopter again.
Her long time friend Sky McCoy has also dealt with tragedies. He has found salvation working as a raptor rehabilitator. After Kelly’s mom visits him to tell him what happened to her daughter, Sky invites Kelly to help him, which she agrees to do. As they work side by side, his past surfaces threatening Kelly even as their love for one another blossoms.
The deep look at saving and protecting endangered birds of prey refreshes an engaging romantic suspense. Kelly and Sky have demons from their past; hers being very recent while his shows up in person. Although the suspense is somewhat typical of a romantic thriller, fans, with the exception of the Governor Palin crowd who would prefer to fly to hunt, will enjoy this tense tale as the most DANGEROUS PREY is human.
Harriet Klausner
Lindsay McKenna
Harlequin HQN, Dec 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780373773213
Flying a helicopter is something that Kelly Trayhern loves. Working for Bates International, a fire suppression company, she is exhausted after nine trips from Cottonwood Airport near Sedona into a blaze; the tenth ended in a crash caused by a sudden burst of smoke blinding her; the two men with her were trapped inside an inferno. Her joy of flying died with her co-pilot and the Forest Service Ranger; as she vows to never pilot a helicopter again.
Her long time friend Sky McCoy has also dealt with tragedies. He has found salvation working as a raptor rehabilitator. After Kelly’s mom visits him to tell him what happened to her daughter, Sky invites Kelly to help him, which she agrees to do. As they work side by side, his past surfaces threatening Kelly even as their love for one another blossoms.
The deep look at saving and protecting endangered birds of prey refreshes an engaging romantic suspense. Kelly and Sky have demons from their past; hers being very recent while his shows up in person. Although the suspense is somewhat typical of a romantic thriller, fans, with the exception of the Governor Palin crowd who would prefer to fly to hunt, will enjoy this tense tale as the most DANGEROUS PREY is human.
Harriet Klausner
Dying for You-Beverly Barton
Dying for You
Beverly Barton
Harlequin HQN, Dec 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780373773176
For almost a decade at Dundee Private Security Lucie Evans and Sawyer McNamara fought like cats and dogs. Anyone who observed the oil water mix would never conclude they were once very close. The gender squabble ends when Lucie leaves the firm to accept the position of a bodyguard to billionaire Cara Bedell.
During an attempt to kidnap Cara, Lucie is abducted instead. A stunned Sawyer bulldozes his way onto the rescue team. They liberate Lucie, but Cara remains a target of a killer. Lucie and Sawyer team up to try to keep Cara safe and bring down her assailant even as the two operatives try to still conceal their feelings for one another.
DYING FOR YOU is a fabulous Dundee Private Security romantic suspense that grips the audience from the moment Lucie quits and never slows down as she and her beloved enemy fights one another while protecting Cara. The lead couple is fully developed especially their flaws as each is willing to risk their life but not their heart. Fans will relish this tense tale while seeking the exciting Protectors' saga (see A TIME TO DIE, MOST LIKELY TO DIE and DANGEROUS DECEPTION).
Harriet Klausner
Beverly Barton
Harlequin HQN, Dec 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780373773176
For almost a decade at Dundee Private Security Lucie Evans and Sawyer McNamara fought like cats and dogs. Anyone who observed the oil water mix would never conclude they were once very close. The gender squabble ends when Lucie leaves the firm to accept the position of a bodyguard to billionaire Cara Bedell.
During an attempt to kidnap Cara, Lucie is abducted instead. A stunned Sawyer bulldozes his way onto the rescue team. They liberate Lucie, but Cara remains a target of a killer. Lucie and Sawyer team up to try to keep Cara safe and bring down her assailant even as the two operatives try to still conceal their feelings for one another.
DYING FOR YOU is a fabulous Dundee Private Security romantic suspense that grips the audience from the moment Lucie quits and never slows down as she and her beloved enemy fights one another while protecting Cara. The lead couple is fully developed especially their flaws as each is willing to risk their life but not their heart. Fans will relish this tense tale while seeking the exciting Protectors' saga (see A TIME TO DIE, MOST LIKELY TO DIE and DANGEROUS DECEPTION).
Harriet Klausner
When Danger Calls-Terry O’Dell
When Danger Calls
Terry O’Dell
Five Star, Dec 2008, $25.95
ISBN: 159414723X
Following his second failed black ops mission in which people died and he is injured, Blackthorne agent Ryan Harper is put on medical leave. He knows that everyone at the private security firm assumes he turned rogue, but he believes someone inside caused the two failures; they were set up and he plans to bring that person down as a little girl who died in the first fiasco haunts him. Thus Ryan retrieved the container he was sent to obtain, but tells his boss otherwise so he can learn why something allegedly minor caused deaths.
Ryan returns to his hometown of Broken Bow, Montana to stay with his Pop on the ranch. He meets Gladys a waitress at the Three Elks and is attracted to her. Ryan later learns she is an elementary school art teacher Frankie Castor, a single mom to precocious six year old Molly. Frankie worries about her mom who has suffered two injuries since starting a relationship with Bob Dwyer. As Ryan and Frankie fall in love, he comes to the rescue of her, Molly, and Molly’s “friend” Mr. Snuggles even as someone wants what he possesses from his last mission; that person is willing to harm his loved ones something that is unacceptable to Ryan.
This is an exciting romantic suspense that grips readers from the onset when Ryan’s cakewalk mission turns ugly and never slows down as his work arrives at Big Sky Country. The cast is very strong especially the lead couple and their immediate family. Although major coincidence twice involving land takes somewhat away from this fine thriller, fans will appreciate Ryan’s reactions WHEN DANGER CALLS.
Harriet Klausner
Terry O’Dell
Five Star, Dec 2008, $25.95
ISBN: 159414723X
Following his second failed black ops mission in which people died and he is injured, Blackthorne agent Ryan Harper is put on medical leave. He knows that everyone at the private security firm assumes he turned rogue, but he believes someone inside caused the two failures; they were set up and he plans to bring that person down as a little girl who died in the first fiasco haunts him. Thus Ryan retrieved the container he was sent to obtain, but tells his boss otherwise so he can learn why something allegedly minor caused deaths.
Ryan returns to his hometown of Broken Bow, Montana to stay with his Pop on the ranch. He meets Gladys a waitress at the Three Elks and is attracted to her. Ryan later learns she is an elementary school art teacher Frankie Castor, a single mom to precocious six year old Molly. Frankie worries about her mom who has suffered two injuries since starting a relationship with Bob Dwyer. As Ryan and Frankie fall in love, he comes to the rescue of her, Molly, and Molly’s “friend” Mr. Snuggles even as someone wants what he possesses from his last mission; that person is willing to harm his loved ones something that is unacceptable to Ryan.
This is an exciting romantic suspense that grips readers from the onset when Ryan’s cakewalk mission turns ugly and never slows down as his work arrives at Big Sky Country. The cast is very strong especially the lead couple and their immediate family. Although major coincidence twice involving land takes somewhat away from this fine thriller, fans will appreciate Ryan’s reactions WHEN DANGER CALLS.
Harriet Klausner
A Veiled Deception-Annette Blair
A Veiled Deception
Annette Blair
Berkley, Jan 2009, $6.99
ISBN: 9780425226407
Madeira “Maddie” Cutler, a vintage clothing designer for a famous fashion house, is on her way to her hometown of Mystick Falls, Connecticut where she hopes to create the gown for her baby sister she raised. Maddie arrives in time for pandemonium; an angry Sherry watches her fiancé Justin’s former girlfriend Jasmine hang all over him as if she is the bride. Upset Sherry makes a rash statement that she will kill Jasmine in front of witnesses.
Maddie goes to see the wedding dress Sherry’s mother-in-law expects her to wear only to find Jasmine choked to death by a veil. Sherry is the number one and only suspect; she does not help herself as she refuses to provide an alibi. Maddie has visions of another woman wearing the same dress and concludes her visions are related to the Jasmine homicide, but has no idea how. She investigates Sherry’s in-laws especially their past since the dress belonged to Justin’s mother to understand what she saw and hopes to apply it to identify the killer.
Annette Blair, renowned for her sensational bewitching romantic fantasies provides a new series filled with humor, the paranormal, two related mysteries, and of course romance. The protagonist is a beguiling intelligent free spirit who prefers a laughter and lay back lifestyle, but knows when the situation calls for a serious spin. She is glue that not only holds A VEILED DECEPTION together but turns the tale into an outstanding read.
Harriet Klausner
Annette Blair
Berkley, Jan 2009, $6.99
ISBN: 9780425226407
Madeira “Maddie” Cutler, a vintage clothing designer for a famous fashion house, is on her way to her hometown of Mystick Falls, Connecticut where she hopes to create the gown for her baby sister she raised. Maddie arrives in time for pandemonium; an angry Sherry watches her fiancé Justin’s former girlfriend Jasmine hang all over him as if she is the bride. Upset Sherry makes a rash statement that she will kill Jasmine in front of witnesses.
Maddie goes to see the wedding dress Sherry’s mother-in-law expects her to wear only to find Jasmine choked to death by a veil. Sherry is the number one and only suspect; she does not help herself as she refuses to provide an alibi. Maddie has visions of another woman wearing the same dress and concludes her visions are related to the Jasmine homicide, but has no idea how. She investigates Sherry’s in-laws especially their past since the dress belonged to Justin’s mother to understand what she saw and hopes to apply it to identify the killer.
Annette Blair, renowned for her sensational bewitching romantic fantasies provides a new series filled with humor, the paranormal, two related mysteries, and of course romance. The protagonist is a beguiling intelligent free spirit who prefers a laughter and lay back lifestyle, but knows when the situation calls for a serious spin. She is glue that not only holds A VEILED DECEPTION together but turns the tale into an outstanding read.
Harriet Klausner
The Witch’s Grave-Shirley Damsgaard
The Witch’s Grave
Shirley Damsgaard
Avon, Jan 2009, $6.99
ISBN: 9780061493430
Librarian Ophelia Jensen and her beloved grandmother Abby live in a small Iowa town. People who meet the pair assume they are ordinary Midwesterners. A few locals know that they are witches and psychics just like their ancestors. Ophelia has not always felt comfortable with her gifts although they have helped her solve several homicides (see WITCH WAY TO MURDER and THE WITCH IS DEAD). Currently she is in a happy mood because of her dreams of a new man entering her life.
At a library fundraiser, Ophelia meets former horror writer Stephen Larsen and they are attracted to one another. When they go for a walk near the woods, a shot is fired and he begins to bleed from his chest. He is stabilized at the hospital, but later someone shoots at Ophelia, but misses. The psychic begins to dream of a French Resistance fighter Madeleine and her lover Henrick, who loves her back but refuses to marry her. Abby believes Stephen and Ophelia were once Madeleine and Henrick; her inquiries into the past lead to a present illegal immigrant ring who wants the trio silenced.
In their sixth appearance, Ophelia is accepting her powers that are getting stronger as she understands her desire to find out who the sniper is requires full use of her talents. Matters turn even more corrupted when a politician running for office is shot at and his aide killed. Thus THE WITCH’S GRAVE is a multilayered paranormal whodunit in which the WW II European past and the twenty-first century Hawkeye State converge through Ophelia and Stephen inside a fascinating supernatural amateur sleuth mystery.
Harriet Klausner
Shirley Damsgaard
Avon, Jan 2009, $6.99
ISBN: 9780061493430
Librarian Ophelia Jensen and her beloved grandmother Abby live in a small Iowa town. People who meet the pair assume they are ordinary Midwesterners. A few locals know that they are witches and psychics just like their ancestors. Ophelia has not always felt comfortable with her gifts although they have helped her solve several homicides (see WITCH WAY TO MURDER and THE WITCH IS DEAD). Currently she is in a happy mood because of her dreams of a new man entering her life.
At a library fundraiser, Ophelia meets former horror writer Stephen Larsen and they are attracted to one another. When they go for a walk near the woods, a shot is fired and he begins to bleed from his chest. He is stabilized at the hospital, but later someone shoots at Ophelia, but misses. The psychic begins to dream of a French Resistance fighter Madeleine and her lover Henrick, who loves her back but refuses to marry her. Abby believes Stephen and Ophelia were once Madeleine and Henrick; her inquiries into the past lead to a present illegal immigrant ring who wants the trio silenced.
In their sixth appearance, Ophelia is accepting her powers that are getting stronger as she understands her desire to find out who the sniper is requires full use of her talents. Matters turn even more corrupted when a politician running for office is shot at and his aide killed. Thus THE WITCH’S GRAVE is a multilayered paranormal whodunit in which the WW II European past and the twenty-first century Hawkeye State converge through Ophelia and Stephen inside a fascinating supernatural amateur sleuth mystery.
Harriet Klausner
Holiday with a Vampire II-Merline Lovelace and Lori Devoti
Holiday with a Vampire II
Merline Lovelace and Lori Devoti
Silhouette Nocturne Dec 2008, $5.25
ISBN: 9780373618019
"A Christmas Kiss” by Merline Lovelace. Sergeant Brett Cooper barely prevents a nasty accident when he almost runs over a woozy Delilah Wentworth. She is a vampire who had been to the dentist to have her fang fixed. They are attracted to one another and stay together for the holidays while both wonder about the New Year.
"The Vampire Who Stole Christmas" by Lori Devoti. Seeking vengeance against the family that adopted him, vampire Drystan Hurst returns home to fall in love with his brother's fiancée, Aimee Polk.
Although vampires star in both tales, the paranormal is low keyed as each is more a typical lighthearted holiday romance except perhaps for the vamp needing to go to the dentist in Ms. Lovelace’s tale. Still fans will enjoy the vampires finding their “souls” through love.
Harriet Klausner
Merline Lovelace and Lori Devoti
Silhouette Nocturne Dec 2008, $5.25
ISBN: 9780373618019
"A Christmas Kiss” by Merline Lovelace. Sergeant Brett Cooper barely prevents a nasty accident when he almost runs over a woozy Delilah Wentworth. She is a vampire who had been to the dentist to have her fang fixed. They are attracted to one another and stay together for the holidays while both wonder about the New Year.
"The Vampire Who Stole Christmas" by Lori Devoti. Seeking vengeance against the family that adopted him, vampire Drystan Hurst returns home to fall in love with his brother's fiancée, Aimee Polk.
Although vampires star in both tales, the paranormal is low keyed as each is more a typical lighthearted holiday romance except perhaps for the vamp needing to go to the dentist in Ms. Lovelace’s tale. Still fans will enjoy the vampires finding their “souls” through love.
Harriet Klausner
Scions: Revelation-Patrice Michelle
Scions: Revelation
Patrice Michelle
Silhouette Nocturne, Dec 2008, $5.25
ISBN: 9780373618002
As the werewolf Lupreda protector Caine Grennard knows he must leave since his mentor the Alpha leader Landon gives him no choice. To stay, he must wear a silver collar to keep him from going “zerker”, which he knows that means he can not do his job. He leaves his pack to venture out on his own.
The former second in command feels all alone after three months delivering packages until he meets reticent waitress Emma Gray at the Squeeze night club and to his shock is attracted to her as he always assumed his soulmate would be a shapeshifter. Emma reciprocates his feelings even as Landon wants him back with his family and offers a full moon compromise. Soon after their first meeting Emma tells Caine someone kidnapped her Aunt Mary. Caine tells her he will find and try to rescue her. As they investigate together, their attraction turns to love. However, both are in for a shocker when they learn her aunt has been giving Emma vitamins that are actually shapeshifting suppressants; instead of a purebred human she is something else but not werewolf as he would have sniffed that; his fear is that something else is his pack’s natural enemy.
The latest Scions romantic urban fantasy (see RESURRECTION and INSURRECTION) is a fabulous paranormal that works because the audience obtains a fascinating look at the relationships within the Lupreda pack. The romance is fun to follow as the secret behind what she is will enthrall the audience. The abduction of Aunt Mary takes a back seat to the bite between a unique star-crossed lovers twist.
Harriet Klausner
Patrice Michelle
Silhouette Nocturne, Dec 2008, $5.25
ISBN: 9780373618002
As the werewolf Lupreda protector Caine Grennard knows he must leave since his mentor the Alpha leader Landon gives him no choice. To stay, he must wear a silver collar to keep him from going “zerker”, which he knows that means he can not do his job. He leaves his pack to venture out on his own.
The former second in command feels all alone after three months delivering packages until he meets reticent waitress Emma Gray at the Squeeze night club and to his shock is attracted to her as he always assumed his soulmate would be a shapeshifter. Emma reciprocates his feelings even as Landon wants him back with his family and offers a full moon compromise. Soon after their first meeting Emma tells Caine someone kidnapped her Aunt Mary. Caine tells her he will find and try to rescue her. As they investigate together, their attraction turns to love. However, both are in for a shocker when they learn her aunt has been giving Emma vitamins that are actually shapeshifting suppressants; instead of a purebred human she is something else but not werewolf as he would have sniffed that; his fear is that something else is his pack’s natural enemy.
The latest Scions romantic urban fantasy (see RESURRECTION and INSURRECTION) is a fabulous paranormal that works because the audience obtains a fascinating look at the relationships within the Lupreda pack. The romance is fun to follow as the secret behind what she is will enthrall the audience. The abduction of Aunt Mary takes a back seat to the bite between a unique star-crossed lovers twist.
Harriet Klausner
Sunday, October 26, 2008
Your Roots Are Showing-Elise Chidley
Your Roots Are Showing
Elise Chidley
5 Spot, Oct 2008, $13.99
ISBN: 0446178144
Lizzie and James Buckley seem to have the perfect life as they raise their three year old twins in love and affluence. However, though Lizzie loves her stay at home mommy role on their country estate, she also can use some time out with a box of chocolates. She suffers from postpartum depression that has only grown worse as James remains unsympathetic while she mopes and gains weight.
In a frustrated rage, she types an e-mail ripping her dear husband for his lack of understanding. However instead of her sister, she accidentally forwards it to James. He is livid upon reading her diatribe and angrily tells her he is filing for divorce before walking out on her. Stunned Lizzie takes their kids and leaves. Although she misses her beloved James, but not Mill House, Lizzie realizes she suffers from depression and starts running as a means of releasing her stress with the motive that James will come back for her.
Lizzie makes this deep English character study work as she struggles with being a mommy only. The support cast from her spouse to their “martinet” kids to the neighbors at Back Lane Cottage enhances the deep look at a woman suffering from postpartum depression that has gotten worse over the three plus years since she gave birth. Although limited action and a bit too tidy of a wrap-up, contemporary fiction fans will appreciate this fine tale of an individual whose self esteem went with the afterbirth.
Harriet Klausner
Elise Chidley
5 Spot, Oct 2008, $13.99
ISBN: 0446178144
Lizzie and James Buckley seem to have the perfect life as they raise their three year old twins in love and affluence. However, though Lizzie loves her stay at home mommy role on their country estate, she also can use some time out with a box of chocolates. She suffers from postpartum depression that has only grown worse as James remains unsympathetic while she mopes and gains weight.
In a frustrated rage, she types an e-mail ripping her dear husband for his lack of understanding. However instead of her sister, she accidentally forwards it to James. He is livid upon reading her diatribe and angrily tells her he is filing for divorce before walking out on her. Stunned Lizzie takes their kids and leaves. Although she misses her beloved James, but not Mill House, Lizzie realizes she suffers from depression and starts running as a means of releasing her stress with the motive that James will come back for her.
Lizzie makes this deep English character study work as she struggles with being a mommy only. The support cast from her spouse to their “martinet” kids to the neighbors at Back Lane Cottage enhances the deep look at a woman suffering from postpartum depression that has gotten worse over the three plus years since she gave birth. Although limited action and a bit too tidy of a wrap-up, contemporary fiction fans will appreciate this fine tale of an individual whose self esteem went with the afterbirth.
Harriet Klausner
Crossroads-Belva Plain
Crossroads
Belva Plain
Delacorte, Nov 25 2008, $26.00
ISBN: 0385336845
In Wrightstown, New England, twice widowed Mrs. Cassandra Wright (Ms. Is too trendy though using her maiden name is not) is the CEO of Wright Glassworks. A family tragedy forces Cassie to take in her relative, one years old Gwen. She raises Gwen as if she is her own daughter and the child thrives in the affluence of her surroundings.
Jewel Fairchild works as a receptionist at the Glassworks with ambition to marry wealth. Whereas the adult Gwen is at best plain looking; Jewel is vivaciously beautiful. Envious of Gwen, Jewel achieves her goal by marrying affluent businessman Jeff while Gwen settles on steady middle class worker Stan while coveting Jeff. When Stan uncovers questionable practices at his place of work owned by Jeff, they and their wives will be forced to confront their inner demons.
This contemporary comparative character study is fun to follow as readers will contrast Jewel with Gwen, and Stan with Jeff. Although Jewel is more of a caricature of the scheming gold-digger, Gwen a bit too introverted to carry the story line and the husbands two and half dimensional, the dynamic CROSSROADS relationships between the lead quartet make for an interesting drama for fans of Belva Plain.
Harriet Klausner
Belva Plain
Delacorte, Nov 25 2008, $26.00
ISBN: 0385336845
In Wrightstown, New England, twice widowed Mrs. Cassandra Wright (Ms. Is too trendy though using her maiden name is not) is the CEO of Wright Glassworks. A family tragedy forces Cassie to take in her relative, one years old Gwen. She raises Gwen as if she is her own daughter and the child thrives in the affluence of her surroundings.
Jewel Fairchild works as a receptionist at the Glassworks with ambition to marry wealth. Whereas the adult Gwen is at best plain looking; Jewel is vivaciously beautiful. Envious of Gwen, Jewel achieves her goal by marrying affluent businessman Jeff while Gwen settles on steady middle class worker Stan while coveting Jeff. When Stan uncovers questionable practices at his place of work owned by Jeff, they and their wives will be forced to confront their inner demons.
This contemporary comparative character study is fun to follow as readers will contrast Jewel with Gwen, and Stan with Jeff. Although Jewel is more of a caricature of the scheming gold-digger, Gwen a bit too introverted to carry the story line and the husbands two and half dimensional, the dynamic CROSSROADS relationships between the lead quartet make for an interesting drama for fans of Belva Plain.
Harriet Klausner
Enchanted Again-Nancy Madore
Enchanted Again
Nancy Madore
Harlequin Spice, Nov 2008, $13.95
ISBN: 0373605218
This spicy collection contains Nancy Madore’s clever erotic spin to eight classic nursery rhymes. The titles tell all as the torrid spoofs include "Birds of a Feather", “Curley Locks”, "Desperate Dan", “Hot Cross Buns”, "Little Miss Muffet", Peter Peter Pumpkin Eater” and Humpty Dumpty”; all contain a sexual face lift inside of a relatively long short stories (the shortest is over thirty pages). The tales are fun whether they are amusing or dark. Each contains reasonably solid lead characters like Carol Curley Locks wanting a commitment from her hot boyfriend who hides his heated darkness from her, Peter giving new meaning to eating pumpkin pie, Georgie wanting more than just stealing kisses and Marcie understanding the true meaning of hot buns, etc. The sequel to ENCHANTED consists of "more erotic bedtime stories for women" as fairy tales can come steamy in Ms. Madore’s enchanting erotic interpretation that Freud would endorse.
Harriet Klausner
Nancy Madore
Harlequin Spice, Nov 2008, $13.95
ISBN: 0373605218
This spicy collection contains Nancy Madore’s clever erotic spin to eight classic nursery rhymes. The titles tell all as the torrid spoofs include "Birds of a Feather", “Curley Locks”, "Desperate Dan", “Hot Cross Buns”, "Little Miss Muffet", Peter Peter Pumpkin Eater” and Humpty Dumpty”; all contain a sexual face lift inside of a relatively long short stories (the shortest is over thirty pages). The tales are fun whether they are amusing or dark. Each contains reasonably solid lead characters like Carol Curley Locks wanting a commitment from her hot boyfriend who hides his heated darkness from her, Peter giving new meaning to eating pumpkin pie, Georgie wanting more than just stealing kisses and Marcie understanding the true meaning of hot buns, etc. The sequel to ENCHANTED consists of "more erotic bedtime stories for women" as fairy tales can come steamy in Ms. Madore’s enchanting erotic interpretation that Freud would endorse.
Harriet Klausner
Slippery When Wet-Kimberly Raye
Slippery When Wet
Kimberly Raye
Love Spell, Dec 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 9780505527738
Race Chicks Inc. driver Jaycee Anderson has stunned the previously all male dominated NASCAR Sprint Cup by finishing fourth in the final standings. Her objective for the new season is to move up at least one notch with her bodacious goal being cup champion. To obtain third place means holding off all that testosterone that placed behind her and move past Rory Canyon, whom she has known much of her twenty six years of life.
Rory has never forgotten when the teen tomboy kissed him as he ran from her and still is running. However, he knows in his soul how much he wants her even when she hides her curves with driving garb. She never forgave him for ending their friendship a decade ago, but also knows her impetuous kiss affirmed how much she needed him. Each use their rivalry on the track to keep them apart off the track as Daytona looms.
Readers will enjoy this “NASCAR Holiday” while rooting for the heroine to beat the pants off her rival on the track and elsewhere as Kimberly Raye leaves the “dead” romantic fantasy crowd for a spin on the NASCAR circuit. The story line is fast-paced especially when the lead couple competes with each other; the support cast seems two dimensional at times causing a detour to the pleasant prime plot of lady start your engine.
Harriet Klausner
Kimberly Raye
Love Spell, Dec 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 9780505527738
Race Chicks Inc. driver Jaycee Anderson has stunned the previously all male dominated NASCAR Sprint Cup by finishing fourth in the final standings. Her objective for the new season is to move up at least one notch with her bodacious goal being cup champion. To obtain third place means holding off all that testosterone that placed behind her and move past Rory Canyon, whom she has known much of her twenty six years of life.
Rory has never forgotten when the teen tomboy kissed him as he ran from her and still is running. However, he knows in his soul how much he wants her even when she hides her curves with driving garb. She never forgave him for ending their friendship a decade ago, but also knows her impetuous kiss affirmed how much she needed him. Each use their rivalry on the track to keep them apart off the track as Daytona looms.
Readers will enjoy this “NASCAR Holiday” while rooting for the heroine to beat the pants off her rival on the track and elsewhere as Kimberly Raye leaves the “dead” romantic fantasy crowd for a spin on the NASCAR circuit. The story line is fast-paced especially when the lead couple competes with each other; the support cast seems two dimensional at times causing a detour to the pleasant prime plot of lady start your engine.
Harriet Klausner
A Dead Bore-Sheri Cobb South
A Dead Bore
Sheri Cobb South
Five Star, Dec 2008, $25.95
ISBN 9781594147111
In London with the Ton titillating over the murder of her husband, widow Lady Julia Fieldhurst decides it is time to rusticate so she does not have to see the gleeful looks of her peers and hear their gossipy whispered innuendos. Thus to ignore the scandal of her spouse’s homicide, Lady Julia travels to Yorkshire to stay with Sir Gerald and Lady Anne Hollingshead.
Her hosts at Hollingshead Place celebrate her arrival with a small dinner party in which guest Vicar Danvers provides the other diners with verbal extracts from a local history book he is almost finished writing. Soon after dinner, a fire at the vicarage kills Mr. Danvers. Julia sends a message to her London associate Bow Street runner John Pickett pleading with him to come to Yorkshire investigate what she believes was an arson murder related to the history book. Pickett, who because he is attracted to the out of his reach Lady, quickly arrives and masquerades as Julia's footman so that he can serendipitously investigate.
A DEAD BORE is a superb Regency mystery (see IN MILADY'S CHAMBER) that brings to life the aristocracy as well as the servants who reside under the stairs. The whodunit is cleverly set up so that the motive in general terms is obvious but specifically which passage is not; opportunity abound for many people who could have set the inferno. The subtle attraction between the lady and the runner enhances a strong early nineteenth century investigative tale.
Harriet Klausner
Sheri Cobb South
Five Star, Dec 2008, $25.95
ISBN 9781594147111
In London with the Ton titillating over the murder of her husband, widow Lady Julia Fieldhurst decides it is time to rusticate so she does not have to see the gleeful looks of her peers and hear their gossipy whispered innuendos. Thus to ignore the scandal of her spouse’s homicide, Lady Julia travels to Yorkshire to stay with Sir Gerald and Lady Anne Hollingshead.
Her hosts at Hollingshead Place celebrate her arrival with a small dinner party in which guest Vicar Danvers provides the other diners with verbal extracts from a local history book he is almost finished writing. Soon after dinner, a fire at the vicarage kills Mr. Danvers. Julia sends a message to her London associate Bow Street runner John Pickett pleading with him to come to Yorkshire investigate what she believes was an arson murder related to the history book. Pickett, who because he is attracted to the out of his reach Lady, quickly arrives and masquerades as Julia's footman so that he can serendipitously investigate.
A DEAD BORE is a superb Regency mystery (see IN MILADY'S CHAMBER) that brings to life the aristocracy as well as the servants who reside under the stairs. The whodunit is cleverly set up so that the motive in general terms is obvious but specifically which passage is not; opportunity abound for many people who could have set the inferno. The subtle attraction between the lady and the runner enhances a strong early nineteenth century investigative tale.
Harriet Klausner
Drifting South-Charles Davis
Drifting South
Charles Davis
Mira, Dec 2008, $13.95
ISBN: 9780778325420
He spent two decades and one year behind bars for a crime he did not commit. Now finally in 1980 Ben Purdue leaves the Harrisburg Federal Penitentiary where he spent much of his time in protective custody after two inmates tried to kill him. He knows someone wants him dead; most likely tied back to the felony that led to his incarceration. Still in spite of the danger of going home where the source of his assassin probably resides, he needs to learn the fate of his mom and brothers following the shooting that led to his incarceration; which means going to the place he loathes more than prison, his hometown Shady Hollow, Virginia.
In Shady, Ben learns his family is all buried. Used to being alone due to his imprisonment, Ben mourns their death but easily deals with the solitude. He seeks to learn the truth about that fateful September day in 1959 that changed his world from a teen with hope to a bitter felon. Even more so he needs to know why his family resides in graves. The Shady “Keepers”, people who he should have been able to trust from the girl he loved to the preacher to the law were involved, but someone wants him to join his family before the truth surfaces.
This is a terrific character driven suspense thriller that grips the audience from the moment Prison Officer Dollinger explains to Henry (Ben) that he is being released a few days early so whoever wants him dead will not kill him in the penitentiary. The story line never loses that level of intensity as Ben affirms that you can never go home as the memory never existed and besides what is accurate no longer lives at least in his case. The tension mounts with each revelation as an obsessed Ben needs to know as does fans who will relish Charles Davis’s strong thriller in one concentrated sitting.
Harriet Klausner
Charles Davis
Mira, Dec 2008, $13.95
ISBN: 9780778325420
He spent two decades and one year behind bars for a crime he did not commit. Now finally in 1980 Ben Purdue leaves the Harrisburg Federal Penitentiary where he spent much of his time in protective custody after two inmates tried to kill him. He knows someone wants him dead; most likely tied back to the felony that led to his incarceration. Still in spite of the danger of going home where the source of his assassin probably resides, he needs to learn the fate of his mom and brothers following the shooting that led to his incarceration; which means going to the place he loathes more than prison, his hometown Shady Hollow, Virginia.
In Shady, Ben learns his family is all buried. Used to being alone due to his imprisonment, Ben mourns their death but easily deals with the solitude. He seeks to learn the truth about that fateful September day in 1959 that changed his world from a teen with hope to a bitter felon. Even more so he needs to know why his family resides in graves. The Shady “Keepers”, people who he should have been able to trust from the girl he loved to the preacher to the law were involved, but someone wants him to join his family before the truth surfaces.
This is a terrific character driven suspense thriller that grips the audience from the moment Prison Officer Dollinger explains to Henry (Ben) that he is being released a few days early so whoever wants him dead will not kill him in the penitentiary. The story line never loses that level of intensity as Ben affirms that you can never go home as the memory never existed and besides what is accurate no longer lives at least in his case. The tension mounts with each revelation as an obsessed Ben needs to know as does fans who will relish Charles Davis’s strong thriller in one concentrated sitting.
Harriet Klausner
The Vampire’s Revenge-Raven Hart
The Vampire’s Revenge
Raven Hart
Ballantine, Jan 2009, $6.99
ISBN: 9780345498588
It has been only two weeks but Jack McShea does not have the time to mourn his sire William, the vampire who created him over a hundred and fifty years ago. The woman he loves Connie Jones has been magically transformed into a vampire slayer; in her trance she is no longer able to delineate between good and evil vamps. Connie is unaware that she is carrying Jack’s child and that he loves her enough to allow her to be with a shapeshifter who also loves her.
When Connie awakens from the trance, her feelings for Jack remains strong but so does her commitment to Seth. She and Jack reunite to send the double dead vampires back to the hell they escaped from Jack must deal with Diana, and prevent William’s grandfather and his father from destroying Savannah. He must also make long turn plans to save the New World from the Old World vamps who see the human race as bugs
Beleaguered and bewildered while coping with traumas and grief, Jack realizes how much he depended on William, but with no time to spare must learn to rely on himself for the first time in his undead life or lose everyone he loves like he did his mentor. The fabulous fast-paced story line is sort of a coming of age tale if a century and half plus individual can be such. Raven Hart is a fabulous horror writer on a par with Karen Koehler as fans who have read her exhilarating Vampire sag already know. THE VAMPIRE’S REVENGE is an excellent and brilliantly executed horror thriller.
Harriet Klausner
Raven Hart
Ballantine, Jan 2009, $6.99
ISBN: 9780345498588
It has been only two weeks but Jack McShea does not have the time to mourn his sire William, the vampire who created him over a hundred and fifty years ago. The woman he loves Connie Jones has been magically transformed into a vampire slayer; in her trance she is no longer able to delineate between good and evil vamps. Connie is unaware that she is carrying Jack’s child and that he loves her enough to allow her to be with a shapeshifter who also loves her.
When Connie awakens from the trance, her feelings for Jack remains strong but so does her commitment to Seth. She and Jack reunite to send the double dead vampires back to the hell they escaped from Jack must deal with Diana, and prevent William’s grandfather and his father from destroying Savannah. He must also make long turn plans to save the New World from the Old World vamps who see the human race as bugs
Beleaguered and bewildered while coping with traumas and grief, Jack realizes how much he depended on William, but with no time to spare must learn to rely on himself for the first time in his undead life or lose everyone he loves like he did his mentor. The fabulous fast-paced story line is sort of a coming of age tale if a century and half plus individual can be such. Raven Hart is a fabulous horror writer on a par with Karen Koehler as fans who have read her exhilarating Vampire sag already know. THE VAMPIRE’S REVENGE is an excellent and brilliantly executed horror thriller.
Harriet Klausner
Echoes in the Dark-Robin D. Owens
Echoes in the Dark
Robin D. Owens
Luna, Jan 2009, $14.95
ISBN: 9780373802937
The world of Lladrana is under siege by an alien Dark force who lives in a volcano where it has made its nest. The malevolence has created monsters who stalk the countryside killing the people and draining the planet. To save their realm, the Marshalls summoned four women who are necessary to defeat the Dark. The fifth female Raine was summoned on the cheap by the Seamsters. For her first six months she was abused and overall abused so her confidence remained steadily negative. Her job is to build the boat that will take them to the island. Her ally Faucon, once dumped by an Exotique who returned to Earth helps her but tries to keep his distancc because he is drawn to her but doesn’t want to get hurt again
The final Exotique to be called is Jikata, a world known pop singer destined to become a superstar. She was summoned by Mirror Magic to the Singer to fulfill the prophecy so is kept isolated to prepare her to save the world when it is time for her to face the Dark. Raine builds a boat to get there on time while Jikata and her significant other Luthan the Singer begins their quest with the other Exotiques and their mates.
Readers learn why the Dark came to Lladrana and other questions left from the previous four exciting tales are answered. The story line is fast-paced from the onset as are all of Robin D. Owens fantasies in this saga and her Heart novels. The characters are fully developed including the Dark while romantic subplots and a trek to an exotic dimension enhance the countdown prime theme of good trying to save a world from a seemingly more powerful evil.
Harriet Klausner
Robin D. Owens
Luna, Jan 2009, $14.95
ISBN: 9780373802937
The world of Lladrana is under siege by an alien Dark force who lives in a volcano where it has made its nest. The malevolence has created monsters who stalk the countryside killing the people and draining the planet. To save their realm, the Marshalls summoned four women who are necessary to defeat the Dark. The fifth female Raine was summoned on the cheap by the Seamsters. For her first six months she was abused and overall abused so her confidence remained steadily negative. Her job is to build the boat that will take them to the island. Her ally Faucon, once dumped by an Exotique who returned to Earth helps her but tries to keep his distancc because he is drawn to her but doesn’t want to get hurt again
The final Exotique to be called is Jikata, a world known pop singer destined to become a superstar. She was summoned by Mirror Magic to the Singer to fulfill the prophecy so is kept isolated to prepare her to save the world when it is time for her to face the Dark. Raine builds a boat to get there on time while Jikata and her significant other Luthan the Singer begins their quest with the other Exotiques and their mates.
Readers learn why the Dark came to Lladrana and other questions left from the previous four exciting tales are answered. The story line is fast-paced from the onset as are all of Robin D. Owens fantasies in this saga and her Heart novels. The characters are fully developed including the Dark while romantic subplots and a trek to an exotic dimension enhance the countdown prime theme of good trying to save a world from a seemingly more powerful evil.
Harriet Klausner
Monday, October 6, 2008
Talk of the Town-Karen Hawkins
Talk of the Town
Karen Hawkins
Pocket, Dec 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 141656022X
Roxie Treymayne celebrates Victory Day as her divorce from two hundred and fifty ponds of worthless cheating slug is finalized. She vows no more Ms. Nice Gal behaving properly. Before noon on V-Day she bleaches her hair blond, obtains a tattoo and wears four inch heels with a black mini low top. Her come and get me gear is step one on the wild side.
However, the best laid plans of mice, men and Roxie go astray when her mom suffers a heart attack. She rushes home to Glory, North Carolina to be there for her mother. There she meets Sheriff Nick Sheppard, who she once shared short blissful high school tryst that ended badly duie to a misunderstanding. She decides he is the perfect one for her to walk on the wild side with; he rejects her though he wants her. However, his investigation into a death turns into a homicide case in which Roxie and his great-aunt Clara's Murder Mystery Club members trespass.
Displaying her vast talent Karen Hawkins leaves the historicals that have made her popular and writes a lighthearted wonderful regional investigative romance. The lead couple is a delightful pairing as Roxie goes all out to seduce Nick, but though he has a permanent hard on for her, he refuses to let the lower head do his thinking especially while working a murder investigation. The support cast is great starting with her friend Tundy and his Aunt Clara as fans will want the Glory Murder Mystery Club to work on future amateur sleuth cases while driving the sheriff and his professional law enforcement peers crazy.
Harriet Klausner
Karen Hawkins
Pocket, Dec 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 141656022X
Roxie Treymayne celebrates Victory Day as her divorce from two hundred and fifty ponds of worthless cheating slug is finalized. She vows no more Ms. Nice Gal behaving properly. Before noon on V-Day she bleaches her hair blond, obtains a tattoo and wears four inch heels with a black mini low top. Her come and get me gear is step one on the wild side.
However, the best laid plans of mice, men and Roxie go astray when her mom suffers a heart attack. She rushes home to Glory, North Carolina to be there for her mother. There she meets Sheriff Nick Sheppard, who she once shared short blissful high school tryst that ended badly duie to a misunderstanding. She decides he is the perfect one for her to walk on the wild side with; he rejects her though he wants her. However, his investigation into a death turns into a homicide case in which Roxie and his great-aunt Clara's Murder Mystery Club members trespass.
Displaying her vast talent Karen Hawkins leaves the historicals that have made her popular and writes a lighthearted wonderful regional investigative romance. The lead couple is a delightful pairing as Roxie goes all out to seduce Nick, but though he has a permanent hard on for her, he refuses to let the lower head do his thinking especially while working a murder investigation. The support cast is great starting with her friend Tundy and his Aunt Clara as fans will want the Glory Murder Mystery Club to work on future amateur sleuth cases while driving the sheriff and his professional law enforcement peers crazy.
Harriet Klausner
Talk of the Town-Karen Hawkins
Talk of the Town
Karen Hawkins
Pocket, Dec 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 141656022X
Roxie Treymayne celebrates Victory Day as her divorce from two hundred and fifty ponds of worthless cheating slug is finalized. She vows no more Ms. Nice Gal behaving properly. Before noon on V-Day she bleaches her hair blond, obtains a tattoo and wears four inch heels with a black mini low top. Her come and get me gear is step one on the wild side.
However, the best laid plans of mice, men and Roxie go astray when her mom suffers a heart attack. She rushes home to Glory, North Carolina to be there for her mother. There she meets Sheriff Nick Sheppard, who she once shared short blissful high school tryst that ended badly duie to a misunderstanding. She decides he is the perfect one for her to walk on the wild side with; he rejects her though he wants her. However, his investigation into a death turns into a homicide case in which Roxie and his great-aunt Clara's Murder Mystery Club members trespass.
Displaying her vast talent Karen Hawkins leaves the historicals that have made her popular and writes a lighthearted wonderful regional investigative romance. The lead couple is a delightful pairing as Roxie goes all out to seduce Nick, but though he has a permanent hard on for her, he refuses to let the lower head do his thinking especially while working a murder investigation. The support cast is great starting with her friend Tundy and his Aunt Clara as fans will want the Glory Murder Mystery Club to work on future amateur sleuth cases while driving the sheriff and his professional law enforcement peers crazy.
Harriet Klausner
Karen Hawkins
Pocket, Dec 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 141656022X
Roxie Treymayne celebrates Victory Day as her divorce from two hundred and fifty ponds of worthless cheating slug is finalized. She vows no more Ms. Nice Gal behaving properly. Before noon on V-Day she bleaches her hair blond, obtains a tattoo and wears four inch heels with a black mini low top. Her come and get me gear is step one on the wild side.
However, the best laid plans of mice, men and Roxie go astray when her mom suffers a heart attack. She rushes home to Glory, North Carolina to be there for her mother. There she meets Sheriff Nick Sheppard, who she once shared short blissful high school tryst that ended badly duie to a misunderstanding. She decides he is the perfect one for her to walk on the wild side with; he rejects her though he wants her. However, his investigation into a death turns into a homicide case in which Roxie and his great-aunt Clara's Murder Mystery Club members trespass.
Displaying her vast talent Karen Hawkins leaves the historicals that have made her popular and writes a lighthearted wonderful regional investigative romance. The lead couple is a delightful pairing as Roxie goes all out to seduce Nick, but though he has a permanent hard on for her, he refuses to let the lower head do his thinking especially while working a murder investigation. The support cast is great starting with her friend Tundy and his Aunt Clara as fans will want the Glory Murder Mystery Club to work on future amateur sleuth cases while driving the sheriff and his professional law enforcement peers crazy.
Harriet Klausner
Bedtime for Bonsai-Elaine Fox
Bedtime for Bonsai
Elaine Fox
Avon, Dec 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780061474644
In Baltimore divorcee Penelope Porter has vowed off men ever since philandering Glenn dumped her and she acted foolishly afterward feeling like a deranged stalker trying to get him back in spite of his cheating. She turns for affection to Mr. Darcy, her mischievous pup, who keeps running across street to the business owned by Dylan Mersey.
He proves kind as he brings Mr. Darcy back to her. She is stunned that she is attracted to him and when Penny learns he is an ex-con she realizes that does not matter. Dylan seeks a fresh start, but owes a favor that could destroy his hopes for the future. He is attracted to the canine and the cute dog’s pet Penny, but he refuses to act on his feelings as his past makes him feel he is an undesirable for someone at Penny’s social level.
Elaine Fox’s latest canine matchmaking romance (see BEWARE OF DOUG and HELLO DOGGY) is an engaging contemporary romance with the twist that Penny is the pursuer and Dylan the reluctant target. The characters are fully developed as Penny is confused about her feelings and Dylan is not. Mr. Darcy adds matchmaking and humor to the kibble mix while characters from the previous canine capers add a sense of homecoming.
Harriet Klausner
Elaine Fox
Avon, Dec 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780061474644
In Baltimore divorcee Penelope Porter has vowed off men ever since philandering Glenn dumped her and she acted foolishly afterward feeling like a deranged stalker trying to get him back in spite of his cheating. She turns for affection to Mr. Darcy, her mischievous pup, who keeps running across street to the business owned by Dylan Mersey.
He proves kind as he brings Mr. Darcy back to her. She is stunned that she is attracted to him and when Penny learns he is an ex-con she realizes that does not matter. Dylan seeks a fresh start, but owes a favor that could destroy his hopes for the future. He is attracted to the canine and the cute dog’s pet Penny, but he refuses to act on his feelings as his past makes him feel he is an undesirable for someone at Penny’s social level.
Elaine Fox’s latest canine matchmaking romance (see BEWARE OF DOUG and HELLO DOGGY) is an engaging contemporary romance with the twist that Penny is the pursuer and Dylan the reluctant target. The characters are fully developed as Penny is confused about her feelings and Dylan is not. Mr. Darcy adds matchmaking and humor to the kibble mix while characters from the previous canine capers add a sense of homecoming.
Harriet Klausner
A Bride for His Convenience-Edith Layton
A Bride for His Convenience
Edith Layton
Avon, Dec 2008, $5.99
ISBN: 9780061253676
When his father died, Ian Sutcombe became a Marquis only to learn that his dad thought with his wrong head; apparently his sire’s second wife left the estate broke. Sutcombe feels the weight of the world on his shoulders once he learns of his obligations and explores his options with businessman Mr. Foster. He has one, marry for money quickly.
He selects the daughter of an affluent merchant as his spouse. Miss Hannah Leeds has no say in the negotiations between her dad who dances to the idea of a title in the family and her future husband, who makes it clear their relationship will be one of convenience only. Hannah accepts the marriage of convenience arrangement as she disdains love having given her heart away once before Timothy Atkins trampled it. Still she begins to care for and ultimately falls in love with her husband although he behaves at all times as a rigid patrician. When Timothy confesses to Hannah he made a mistake and wants a second chance, she considers her options while Ian wants to inform his wife he loves her and needs a real passionate marriage but fears rejection.
The theme has been used a zillion times in historical romance novels, but master magician Edith Layton refreshes the marriage of convenience premise with excellent characterizations. The lead couple is a wonderful pairing whose relationship changes seem genuine while the support cast enhances the era or in the case of Timothy causes a wedge between Ian and Hannah. A BRIDE FOR CONVENIENCE is an entertaining historical.
Harriet Klausner
Edith Layton
Avon, Dec 2008, $5.99
ISBN: 9780061253676
When his father died, Ian Sutcombe became a Marquis only to learn that his dad thought with his wrong head; apparently his sire’s second wife left the estate broke. Sutcombe feels the weight of the world on his shoulders once he learns of his obligations and explores his options with businessman Mr. Foster. He has one, marry for money quickly.
He selects the daughter of an affluent merchant as his spouse. Miss Hannah Leeds has no say in the negotiations between her dad who dances to the idea of a title in the family and her future husband, who makes it clear their relationship will be one of convenience only. Hannah accepts the marriage of convenience arrangement as she disdains love having given her heart away once before Timothy Atkins trampled it. Still she begins to care for and ultimately falls in love with her husband although he behaves at all times as a rigid patrician. When Timothy confesses to Hannah he made a mistake and wants a second chance, she considers her options while Ian wants to inform his wife he loves her and needs a real passionate marriage but fears rejection.
The theme has been used a zillion times in historical romance novels, but master magician Edith Layton refreshes the marriage of convenience premise with excellent characterizations. The lead couple is a wonderful pairing whose relationship changes seem genuine while the support cast enhances the era or in the case of Timothy causes a wedge between Ian and Hannah. A BRIDE FOR CONVENIENCE is an entertaining historical.
Harriet Klausner
Royal Escape-Susan Froetschel
Royal Escape
Susan Froetschel
Five Star, Dec 2008, $25.95
ISBN: 9781594147173
The Princess of Wales Elena dreams of a different future far from her so-called fairy tale marriage to Edward that has turned into a choking nightmare. She wants to be free to help the less fortunate and she desires fun time for their two children the heir thirteen years old Richard and the spare ten years old Lawrence. Her divorce proceedings has stirred the media and the Royal family as that is unprecedented, but Edward’s blatant cheating with his long time girlfriend finally pushed her to go the final mile with the help of kind solicitor Derrick Wilson.
After a royal gala, an angry upset Elena, who was supposed to have her kids for the weekend, but due to royal chicanery does not, leaves in a Rolls Royce. When she sees Lawrence running she has her driver Henry stop the car. She goes to her son just when the car explodes killing Henry and knocking her out. Lawrence tells the press his mom was a hero. At about the same time two thugs murder Derrick and steal Elena’s journal. Other die as Elena with the help of American journalist Michael McLarrity tries to escape anti royalist terrorists, royal imprisonment under the guise of security and still spend quality time with her two offspring.
This obvious parallel to Princess Diana is an intriguing royal suspense thriller although Elena comes across as too perfect while the royals as so tight ass that a five pence coin could not slide out of their butts. Still the story line is exciting especially once the terrorists begin their campaign and provides insight into what it is like to be a Windsor abiding by choking nightmarish rules under the British media microscope.
Harriet Klausner
Susan Froetschel
Five Star, Dec 2008, $25.95
ISBN: 9781594147173
The Princess of Wales Elena dreams of a different future far from her so-called fairy tale marriage to Edward that has turned into a choking nightmare. She wants to be free to help the less fortunate and she desires fun time for their two children the heir thirteen years old Richard and the spare ten years old Lawrence. Her divorce proceedings has stirred the media and the Royal family as that is unprecedented, but Edward’s blatant cheating with his long time girlfriend finally pushed her to go the final mile with the help of kind solicitor Derrick Wilson.
After a royal gala, an angry upset Elena, who was supposed to have her kids for the weekend, but due to royal chicanery does not, leaves in a Rolls Royce. When she sees Lawrence running she has her driver Henry stop the car. She goes to her son just when the car explodes killing Henry and knocking her out. Lawrence tells the press his mom was a hero. At about the same time two thugs murder Derrick and steal Elena’s journal. Other die as Elena with the help of American journalist Michael McLarrity tries to escape anti royalist terrorists, royal imprisonment under the guise of security and still spend quality time with her two offspring.
This obvious parallel to Princess Diana is an intriguing royal suspense thriller although Elena comes across as too perfect while the royals as so tight ass that a five pence coin could not slide out of their butts. Still the story line is exciting especially once the terrorists begin their campaign and provides insight into what it is like to be a Windsor abiding by choking nightmarish rules under the British media microscope.
Harriet Klausner
Speed Demon-Erin Lynn
Speed Demon
Erin Lynn
Berkley, Nov 2008, $
ISBN: 9780425223666
In Ohio, West Shore High School Teen Kenzie Sutcliffe was taking a shower when she accidentally spilled her expensive acne cream down the drain releasing demon Levi from a demon hole (see DEMON ENVY). Kenzie is the only one who sees him for what he really is; others think he is an amiable good looking teen. She struggled to clog the hole before other more dangerous demons cross over form their realm.
Succeeding by destroying her family’s minivan and kitchen, her reward is a life sentence of permanent grounding. Adding insult to her Good Samaritan success, Levi is her driver as she is banned from driving. He explains that his time on earth is numbered as other demons will come forth from another hole to drag him home. Not if Kenzie the kitchen killer has her way even as she wonders what the cost will be this time as she is already grounded for several lives.
This lighthearted teen urban fantasy is a fun tale starring a real American heroine and the illegal alien who demonically has turned her life upside down. The story line is fast-paced and breezy with plenty of humor and some suspense. Although the plot is thin, fans will enjoy Erin Lynn’s amusing tale of a demon haunting a sweet sixteen-Buckeye.
Harriet Klausner
Erin Lynn
Berkley, Nov 2008, $
ISBN: 9780425223666
In Ohio, West Shore High School Teen Kenzie Sutcliffe was taking a shower when she accidentally spilled her expensive acne cream down the drain releasing demon Levi from a demon hole (see DEMON ENVY). Kenzie is the only one who sees him for what he really is; others think he is an amiable good looking teen. She struggled to clog the hole before other more dangerous demons cross over form their realm.
Succeeding by destroying her family’s minivan and kitchen, her reward is a life sentence of permanent grounding. Adding insult to her Good Samaritan success, Levi is her driver as she is banned from driving. He explains that his time on earth is numbered as other demons will come forth from another hole to drag him home. Not if Kenzie the kitchen killer has her way even as she wonders what the cost will be this time as she is already grounded for several lives.
This lighthearted teen urban fantasy is a fun tale starring a real American heroine and the illegal alien who demonically has turned her life upside down. The story line is fast-paced and breezy with plenty of humor and some suspense. Although the plot is thin, fans will enjoy Erin Lynn’s amusing tale of a demon haunting a sweet sixteen-Buckeye.
Harriet Klausner
22 Nights-Linda Winstead Jones
22 Nights
Linda Winstead Jones
Berkley, Dec 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 9780425224915
Six years ago in an act of desperation to keep her freedom Princess Bela Haythorne of Turis drugged General Merin who was leading a local military force; while he was not fully aware of his situation she bedded and wedded him. He left going off to fight for the newly crowned Columbyanan Emperor Jahn moving up the ranks through blood and sweat to the point where he is the next in line as Minister of Defense while she hid in her Turis village in the Eastern Province.
Now Emperor Jahn is choosing a bride from candidates being brought from the corners of the empire. Merin volunteers to his superior General Hydd to escort Bela to the court in Arthes as almost anyone else would end up losing their head; he admits he might too. In Turis he is greeted by Bela ready to slice off his head. Her brothers and papa want his head too as they know what he did to her. Bela admits the truth including that they are married; stunning her family and her husband. They agree to divorce, which in Turis custom means bound together for 22 days and nights. Her mother believes they will either kill each other or realize they are in love.
The sequel to UNTOUCHABLE is a terrific Emperor’s Bride romantic fantasy with a superb premise of having two enemy combatants bound together while fighting enemies who want one or the other dead. Her mystical “talking” sword Kitty adds uniqueness to the caper as the couple follows her sword into the Forbidden Mountain. Subplots involving other key characters enhance the saga as mom is right with her immediate assessment that the General and the barbaric princess will either die or love in a wonderful sword and sorcery romance.
Harriet Klausner
Linda Winstead Jones
Berkley, Dec 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 9780425224915
Six years ago in an act of desperation to keep her freedom Princess Bela Haythorne of Turis drugged General Merin who was leading a local military force; while he was not fully aware of his situation she bedded and wedded him. He left going off to fight for the newly crowned Columbyanan Emperor Jahn moving up the ranks through blood and sweat to the point where he is the next in line as Minister of Defense while she hid in her Turis village in the Eastern Province.
Now Emperor Jahn is choosing a bride from candidates being brought from the corners of the empire. Merin volunteers to his superior General Hydd to escort Bela to the court in Arthes as almost anyone else would end up losing their head; he admits he might too. In Turis he is greeted by Bela ready to slice off his head. Her brothers and papa want his head too as they know what he did to her. Bela admits the truth including that they are married; stunning her family and her husband. They agree to divorce, which in Turis custom means bound together for 22 days and nights. Her mother believes they will either kill each other or realize they are in love.
The sequel to UNTOUCHABLE is a terrific Emperor’s Bride romantic fantasy with a superb premise of having two enemy combatants bound together while fighting enemies who want one or the other dead. Her mystical “talking” sword Kitty adds uniqueness to the caper as the couple follows her sword into the Forbidden Mountain. Subplots involving other key characters enhance the saga as mom is right with her immediate assessment that the General and the barbaric princess will either die or love in a wonderful sword and sorcery romance.
Harriet Klausner
The Drowned Life-Jeffrey Ford
The Drowned Life
Jeffrey Ford
Harper, Nov 4 2008, $$13.95
ISBN: 9780061435065
This is an excellent sixteen story collection that runs the gamut from sci fi to surreal to realism while following the travails of everyday people forced (sometimes by their choices and sin some instances by those of others) down dark paths. All are well written with several sensationally poignant and haunting as drowning (not necessarily in water) serves as a metaphor of life. The opening tale The Drowned Life (same as book title) sets the quality bar of excellence as it seems so allegorically apropos with people unable to financially float when sharks chase them until they start drowning but end up in an underwater city that no one escapes. Another example of a life drowning is “Night Whiskey”; following an annual gala, two men wake up peers sleeping off a magical brew in trees. Others are just as weird yet each provides a symbolic look at people drowning in spite of seemingly doing everything allegedly right.
Harriet Klausner
Jeffrey Ford
Harper, Nov 4 2008, $$13.95
ISBN: 9780061435065
This is an excellent sixteen story collection that runs the gamut from sci fi to surreal to realism while following the travails of everyday people forced (sometimes by their choices and sin some instances by those of others) down dark paths. All are well written with several sensationally poignant and haunting as drowning (not necessarily in water) serves as a metaphor of life. The opening tale The Drowned Life (same as book title) sets the quality bar of excellence as it seems so allegorically apropos with people unable to financially float when sharks chase them until they start drowning but end up in an underwater city that no one escapes. Another example of a life drowning is “Night Whiskey”; following an annual gala, two men wake up peers sleeping off a magical brew in trees. Others are just as weird yet each provides a symbolic look at people drowning in spite of seemingly doing everything allegedly right.
Harriet Klausner
Eye to Eye-Grace Carol
Eye to Eye
Grace Carol
Red Dress, Dec 2008, $13.95
ISBN: 9780373895823
Ronnie and Doris are best friends who live on opposite sides of the continent. Ronnie, after a graduate school stint in Indiana, lives in Los Angeles with her boyfriend Earl and no money. Doris resides in Atlanta, but just ended a relationship.
Ronnie tutors sixteen years old Ian who runs his wealthy family like a dictator. Doris is under siege at the college she works by a royal academic pain in the butt. They remain best friends picking each other up mentally as their career paths collapse and their romances seem to crumble.
This is an intriguing tale starring two women who once shared their feelings in person, but geography has somewhat limited that support although they remain steadfast for one another. There is little action and much of that comes across as musings and doubts although the audience get inside the respective heads of the best friends to the point of understanding their wants and fears. These internal asides are all over the place making them realistic but difficult to follow. Still this is a fascinating lock at two people reflecting on their choices, past present and future.
Harriet Klausner
Grace Carol
Red Dress, Dec 2008, $13.95
ISBN: 9780373895823
Ronnie and Doris are best friends who live on opposite sides of the continent. Ronnie, after a graduate school stint in Indiana, lives in Los Angeles with her boyfriend Earl and no money. Doris resides in Atlanta, but just ended a relationship.
Ronnie tutors sixteen years old Ian who runs his wealthy family like a dictator. Doris is under siege at the college she works by a royal academic pain in the butt. They remain best friends picking each other up mentally as their career paths collapse and their romances seem to crumble.
This is an intriguing tale starring two women who once shared their feelings in person, but geography has somewhat limited that support although they remain steadfast for one another. There is little action and much of that comes across as musings and doubts although the audience get inside the respective heads of the best friends to the point of understanding their wants and fears. These internal asides are all over the place making them realistic but difficult to follow. Still this is a fascinating lock at two people reflecting on their choices, past present and future.
Harriet Klausner
Highland Sinner-Hannah Howell
Highland Sinner
Hannah Howell
Zebra, Dec., 384 pp., $6.99
ISBN: 0821780018
In 1478 Scotland, Tormand Murray is used to waking up with a hangover and a woman. However, a different type of ache in his head and the smell wake him up this time. His head has a large bump from where he either banged it or someone banged him; the smell comes from the woman sharing his bed as he recognizes the odor of death. Someone murdered his companion.
The witch Morainn Ross has been haunted of late by visions of murder and a hunk with two different eye colors. When she meets a bewildered Tormand she recognizes him as the man of her dreams. Tormand knows immediately the witch is his life mate. He needs to persuade his beloved they belong together and while keeping her safe investigate the homicide of his bed companion starting with how he got there and just who she is.
The latest Highland romance is a fun fresh tale that contains the usual premise of a wild Murray male meeting a brave female and knowing his true love instantly. The story line is refreshed by the homicide inquiry that is part dangerous, part loving and part amusing as if the Thin Man and his wife went back to the fifteenth century. Fans will enjoy Hannah Howell’s Highland romance.
Harriet Klausner
Hannah Howell
Zebra, Dec., 384 pp., $6.99
ISBN: 0821780018
In 1478 Scotland, Tormand Murray is used to waking up with a hangover and a woman. However, a different type of ache in his head and the smell wake him up this time. His head has a large bump from where he either banged it or someone banged him; the smell comes from the woman sharing his bed as he recognizes the odor of death. Someone murdered his companion.
The witch Morainn Ross has been haunted of late by visions of murder and a hunk with two different eye colors. When she meets a bewildered Tormand she recognizes him as the man of her dreams. Tormand knows immediately the witch is his life mate. He needs to persuade his beloved they belong together and while keeping her safe investigate the homicide of his bed companion starting with how he got there and just who she is.
The latest Highland romance is a fun fresh tale that contains the usual premise of a wild Murray male meeting a brave female and knowing his true love instantly. The story line is refreshed by the homicide inquiry that is part dangerous, part loving and part amusing as if the Thin Man and his wife went back to the fifteenth century. Fans will enjoy Hannah Howell’s Highland romance.
Harriet Klausner
The Parlor House Daughter-Joanne Sundell
The Parlor House Daughter
Joanne Sundell
Five Star, Dec 2008, $25.95
ISBN: 1594147221
In 1863 in Nevada City, Colorado Territory, an assailant murders prostitute Ruby Rose. Her five years old daughter Rebecca moves into a brothel, Jenny Clayton's Palace, where she is raised by the ladies with tenderness and kindness. Madame Jenny even offers to send her east for schooling when she became a teen, but Becca is obsessed with one day finding out who killed her mom and why.
When Becca turns seventeen, customer Morgan Larkspur notices her and is willing to pay top dollar to have her; none of Madam Jenny’s other girls would do. Becca accepts being Morgan’s mistress as she feels that arrangement might help her make progress on her cold case investigation. However, as she begins to fall in love, a crisis threatens to overwhelm them. He must deal with a miner’s strike and she with the unknown culprit trying to kill her. Besides which, Morgan is engaged to another woman.
This Reconstruction Era romance stars two solid lead characters and a strong cast, especially the prostitutes as the story line contains a deep look the plight of females. The plot is fast-paced even the opening scene in which Ruby is bleeding to death and never slows down as Becca forces her mother’s killer to confront her and propels Morgan to confront his feelings and desires. Historical fans will enjoy this fine 1870s Americana tale.
Harriet Klausner
Joanne Sundell
Five Star, Dec 2008, $25.95
ISBN: 1594147221
In 1863 in Nevada City, Colorado Territory, an assailant murders prostitute Ruby Rose. Her five years old daughter Rebecca moves into a brothel, Jenny Clayton's Palace, where she is raised by the ladies with tenderness and kindness. Madame Jenny even offers to send her east for schooling when she became a teen, but Becca is obsessed with one day finding out who killed her mom and why.
When Becca turns seventeen, customer Morgan Larkspur notices her and is willing to pay top dollar to have her; none of Madam Jenny’s other girls would do. Becca accepts being Morgan’s mistress as she feels that arrangement might help her make progress on her cold case investigation. However, as she begins to fall in love, a crisis threatens to overwhelm them. He must deal with a miner’s strike and she with the unknown culprit trying to kill her. Besides which, Morgan is engaged to another woman.
This Reconstruction Era romance stars two solid lead characters and a strong cast, especially the prostitutes as the story line contains a deep look the plight of females. The plot is fast-paced even the opening scene in which Ruby is bleeding to death and never slows down as Becca forces her mother’s killer to confront her and propels Morgan to confront his feelings and desires. Historical fans will enjoy this fine 1870s Americana tale.
Harriet Klausner
Welcome to Serenity-Sherryl Woods
Welcome to Serenity
Sherryl Woods
Mira, Dec 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 9780778325895
In Serenity, South Carolina, Jeanette Brioche has mixed feelings about her new friends. On the one hand, she welcomes for the first time in her lonely life people who care for her. However, on the other hand although she feels good for her new friends, she envies the loving marriages of Maddie, Helen and Dana Sue as she has no man in her life, never has had one, and never will.
Town manager, Tom McDonald meets Jeannette and does not hide is interest in her. Maddie realizes this and signs up Jeannette as a volunteer on the Serenity’s annual Christmas festival committee. Jeanette and Tom are teamed up with each attracted to one another. However, both have had losses in their lives; whereas Tom has moved on and wants to start again with Jeannette, she has not and fears relationships mean loss.
The return to Serenity for another Sweet magnolia contemporary romance FEELS LIKE FAMILY visiting as the audience finds out what is happening to the stars of previous tales (see STEALING HOME). The lead couple is a fine matching as Tom is a nice person and Jeannette is the last one standing alone although Sherryl Woods hopefully has a few more singles in Serenity. Although there is little action, fans will feel the warn holiday WELCOME TO SERENITY.
Harriet Klausner
Sherryl Woods
Mira, Dec 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 9780778325895
In Serenity, South Carolina, Jeanette Brioche has mixed feelings about her new friends. On the one hand, she welcomes for the first time in her lonely life people who care for her. However, on the other hand although she feels good for her new friends, she envies the loving marriages of Maddie, Helen and Dana Sue as she has no man in her life, never has had one, and never will.
Town manager, Tom McDonald meets Jeannette and does not hide is interest in her. Maddie realizes this and signs up Jeannette as a volunteer on the Serenity’s annual Christmas festival committee. Jeanette and Tom are teamed up with each attracted to one another. However, both have had losses in their lives; whereas Tom has moved on and wants to start again with Jeannette, she has not and fears relationships mean loss.
The return to Serenity for another Sweet magnolia contemporary romance FEELS LIKE FAMILY visiting as the audience finds out what is happening to the stars of previous tales (see STEALING HOME). The lead couple is a fine matching as Tom is a nice person and Jeannette is the last one standing alone although Sherryl Woods hopefully has a few more singles in Serenity. Although there is little action, fans will feel the warn holiday WELCOME TO SERENITY.
Harriet Klausner
Die Before I Wake-Laurie Breton
Die Before I Wake
Laurie Breton
Mira, Dec 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780778325901
Julie Hanrahan goes on a cruise as a means of relaxing. On board she meets and falls in love with widower Dr. Thomas Larkin, father of two young children. He feels the same way and after a five day whirlwind courtship they marry.
Julie leaves California to live with her spouse in Maine where she struggles to adjust to the environs. However, the biggest shock is to learn that Tom’s first wife Beth committed suicide and her two kids still grieve big time as they do not understand why their mommy died. Tom's mother, who lives with the, is outright nasty to Julie, who wonders if she should go home. As she considers fleeing to the West Coast, Beth's sister believes her sister was murdered probably by Tom, who displays a temper that he hid when they were in the Caribbean. Julie ponders whether her husband is a killer as accidents begin to befall on her.
Though the theme has been used before (for instance the classic Grant-Bergman movie Notorious) DIE BEFORE I WAKE is a tense contemporary gothic thriller with excellent spins. Laurie Breton keeps the reader off kilter guessing whether Tom is a dangerous menace ready to kill his second wife or a brooding hero unsure what to do to keep his beloved safe. The story line is fast-paced but it is Julie’s account of the goings-on that makes the tale exciting and frightening as the audience knows the bumps in the night are real; at least in her mind. Ms. Breton provides a one sitting taut tale that keeps fans off balance with doubts between straight deadly suspense and romantic suspense.
Harriet Klausner
Laurie Breton
Mira, Dec 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780778325901
Julie Hanrahan goes on a cruise as a means of relaxing. On board she meets and falls in love with widower Dr. Thomas Larkin, father of two young children. He feels the same way and after a five day whirlwind courtship they marry.
Julie leaves California to live with her spouse in Maine where she struggles to adjust to the environs. However, the biggest shock is to learn that Tom’s first wife Beth committed suicide and her two kids still grieve big time as they do not understand why their mommy died. Tom's mother, who lives with the, is outright nasty to Julie, who wonders if she should go home. As she considers fleeing to the West Coast, Beth's sister believes her sister was murdered probably by Tom, who displays a temper that he hid when they were in the Caribbean. Julie ponders whether her husband is a killer as accidents begin to befall on her.
Though the theme has been used before (for instance the classic Grant-Bergman movie Notorious) DIE BEFORE I WAKE is a tense contemporary gothic thriller with excellent spins. Laurie Breton keeps the reader off kilter guessing whether Tom is a dangerous menace ready to kill his second wife or a brooding hero unsure what to do to keep his beloved safe. The story line is fast-paced but it is Julie’s account of the goings-on that makes the tale exciting and frightening as the audience knows the bumps in the night are real; at least in her mind. Ms. Breton provides a one sitting taut tale that keeps fans off balance with doubts between straight deadly suspense and romantic suspense.
Harriet Klausner
Deadly Gift-Heather Graham
Deadly Gift
Heather Graham
Mira, Dec 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 9780778325277
While visiting Ireland with his second wife, millionaire Sean O'Riley becomes ill. He recuperates enough to go home, but hires local Nurse Caer Cavannaugh to help him as he returns to States and heals at home.
Sean's alarmed daughter Kat believes the trophy wife wants her dad dead so she can insure her inheritance before Sean wisely cuts her off, but she lacks hard core proof. When Sean's partner Eddie Ray disappears, Kat asks her friend private investigator Zach Flynn to make inquiries. Zach finds no motives for either killing one partner or for the vanishing of the other. Caer assists him on his investigation, but as they fall in love, she hides from him a secret that impacts the case and will end their relationship.
The concluding Flynn brothers’ “deadly” romantic suspense (see DEADLY NIGHT and DEADLY HARVEST) is a terrific finish to a strong trilogy. The story line is fast-paced from the moment Sean arrives in Ireland and never slows down as Zach with Caer’s aid investigates the business partners’ sudden problems. However, what makes the story line is the secret that puts quite a twist to a tense private investigative romance.
Harriet Klausner
Heather Graham
Mira, Dec 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 9780778325277
While visiting Ireland with his second wife, millionaire Sean O'Riley becomes ill. He recuperates enough to go home, but hires local Nurse Caer Cavannaugh to help him as he returns to States and heals at home.
Sean's alarmed daughter Kat believes the trophy wife wants her dad dead so she can insure her inheritance before Sean wisely cuts her off, but she lacks hard core proof. When Sean's partner Eddie Ray disappears, Kat asks her friend private investigator Zach Flynn to make inquiries. Zach finds no motives for either killing one partner or for the vanishing of the other. Caer assists him on his investigation, but as they fall in love, she hides from him a secret that impacts the case and will end their relationship.
The concluding Flynn brothers’ “deadly” romantic suspense (see DEADLY NIGHT and DEADLY HARVEST) is a terrific finish to a strong trilogy. The story line is fast-paced from the moment Sean arrives in Ireland and never slows down as Zach with Caer’s aid investigates the business partners’ sudden problems. However, what makes the story line is the secret that puts quite a twist to a tense private investigative romance.
Harriet Klausner
At Close Range-Tara Taylor Quinn
At Close Range
Tara Taylor Quinn
Mira, Dec 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780778925529
Judge Hannah Montgomery presides over the murder trial of white supremacist Kenny Hill, a member of the Ivory Nation. However, she and her friends and family become victims of a rash of incidents including vandalism. She assumes allies of Hill probably belonging to Ivory nation, are trying to frighten her.
At the same Hannah worries about her safety and that of those close to her, the police investigate her friend Dr. Brian Hampton. Several babies under his care have recently died with the assumption being tragically SIDS. Although her adopted infant is one of the deceased, Hannah refuses to believe Brian is a murderer until shockingly a connection to Ivory Nation surfaces that makes her reconsider her opinion perhaps as previously being rose colored.
With strong believable twists enhancing a powerful thriller, romantic suspense fans will relish AT CLOSE RANGE. The story line is fast-paced from the opening courtroom scene and never slows down as increasingly the evidence condemns Brian and even Hannah, who believed in his innocence when everyone else was ready to lynch him, begins to judge him as a dangerous felon allied with the group threatening her life. Tara Taylor Quinn provides an exhilarating tale.
Harriet Klausner
Tara Taylor Quinn
Mira, Dec 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780778925529
Judge Hannah Montgomery presides over the murder trial of white supremacist Kenny Hill, a member of the Ivory Nation. However, she and her friends and family become victims of a rash of incidents including vandalism. She assumes allies of Hill probably belonging to Ivory nation, are trying to frighten her.
At the same Hannah worries about her safety and that of those close to her, the police investigate her friend Dr. Brian Hampton. Several babies under his care have recently died with the assumption being tragically SIDS. Although her adopted infant is one of the deceased, Hannah refuses to believe Brian is a murderer until shockingly a connection to Ivory Nation surfaces that makes her reconsider her opinion perhaps as previously being rose colored.
With strong believable twists enhancing a powerful thriller, romantic suspense fans will relish AT CLOSE RANGE. The story line is fast-paced from the opening courtroom scene and never slows down as increasingly the evidence condemns Brian and even Hannah, who believed in his innocence when everyone else was ready to lynch him, begins to judge him as a dangerous felon allied with the group threatening her life. Tara Taylor Quinn provides an exhilarating tale.
Harriet Klausner
Your Heart Belongs to Me
Your Heart Belongs to me
Dean Koontz
Bantam, Nov 25 2008, $27.00
ISBN: 9780553807134
Thirty-four years old Ryan Perry created Be2Do, a social networking web site that makes him a billionaire. He quits as CEO so he can spend more time on development projects and with his girlfriend Samantha, whom he wants to marry. However the aspiring author rejects his proposal though she loves him.
He soon learns he is under a death sentence diagnosed with cardiomyopathy; only a heart transplant can save his life. A donor is found and the operation proves successful. A year after the transplant, strange things occur inside Ryan’s fortress. Candy hearts appear then vanish; likewise a gold heart pendant. He becomes uneasy with the goings-on, but soon believes he is in danger when a video arrives starring a woman who looks like the heart donor with a message “YOUR HEART BELONGS TO ME”. He believes she is going to kill him and with all his wealth and connections he fears she will succeed.
Dean Koontz has written another great thriller filled with heart and supernatural elements. The protagonist is a nice person comfortable in his limited world especially the cyber realm, but is clueless re life outside his circle. When confronted with the paranormal he does what most people will do seek the rational explanation. There is a lot of action, but the tense story line belongs to Ryan who is unable to mentally accept the truth. Readers will enjoy another one sitting Koontz tale.
Harriet Klausner
Dean Koontz
Bantam, Nov 25 2008, $27.00
ISBN: 9780553807134
Thirty-four years old Ryan Perry created Be2Do, a social networking web site that makes him a billionaire. He quits as CEO so he can spend more time on development projects and with his girlfriend Samantha, whom he wants to marry. However the aspiring author rejects his proposal though she loves him.
He soon learns he is under a death sentence diagnosed with cardiomyopathy; only a heart transplant can save his life. A donor is found and the operation proves successful. A year after the transplant, strange things occur inside Ryan’s fortress. Candy hearts appear then vanish; likewise a gold heart pendant. He becomes uneasy with the goings-on, but soon believes he is in danger when a video arrives starring a woman who looks like the heart donor with a message “YOUR HEART BELONGS TO ME”. He believes she is going to kill him and with all his wealth and connections he fears she will succeed.
Dean Koontz has written another great thriller filled with heart and supernatural elements. The protagonist is a nice person comfortable in his limited world especially the cyber realm, but is clueless re life outside his circle. When confronted with the paranormal he does what most people will do seek the rational explanation. There is a lot of action, but the tense story line belongs to Ryan who is unable to mentally accept the truth. Readers will enjoy another one sitting Koontz tale.
Harriet Klausner
Salem Witch Judge-Eve LaPlante
Salem Witch Judge
Eve LaPlante
HarperOne, Nov 2008, $14.95
ISBN: 9780060859602
In 1692, magistrate Samuel Sewall sat on the Massachusetts Court along with other zealous judges hosting the trials of hundreds accused of witchcraft by their neighbors. He convicted over thirty people of the crime and oversaw the execution of twenty by hanging and one by large stones pressing down on him. Some of the executed were friends of the presiding judge. Five years later, removed from the frenzy and reflecting what he and others wrought, Samuel repented taking responsibly for the “shame and blame” and grief he caused. No other judge showed even the slightest remorse.
Eve LaPlante provides a great biography of Judge Swell, who like her previous nonfiction (see AMERICAN JEZEBEL: THE UNCOMMON LIFE OF ANNE HUTCHINSON, THE WOMAN WHO DEFIED THE PURITANS) is apparently an ancestor of the author. Combining diaries by Judge Sewell with anecdotes by her Aunt Charlotte, Ms. LaPlante provides a deep gripping description of a deeply religious Puritan who realized looking back at the atrocities that fundamental extremism led to unnecessary deaths; basically governmental theocracy sanctioned murder. A doting father and husband, he spent the rest of his life following his public confession atoning for what he felt were sins he committed as he wrote papers demanding equality, justice and freedom for everyone even Indians, women, and slaves. This is a timely well written look at the one SALEM WITCH JUDGE who regretted his role in the Salem witch-hunt.
Harriet Klausner
Eve LaPlante
HarperOne, Nov 2008, $14.95
ISBN: 9780060859602
In 1692, magistrate Samuel Sewall sat on the Massachusetts Court along with other zealous judges hosting the trials of hundreds accused of witchcraft by their neighbors. He convicted over thirty people of the crime and oversaw the execution of twenty by hanging and one by large stones pressing down on him. Some of the executed were friends of the presiding judge. Five years later, removed from the frenzy and reflecting what he and others wrought, Samuel repented taking responsibly for the “shame and blame” and grief he caused. No other judge showed even the slightest remorse.
Eve LaPlante provides a great biography of Judge Swell, who like her previous nonfiction (see AMERICAN JEZEBEL: THE UNCOMMON LIFE OF ANNE HUTCHINSON, THE WOMAN WHO DEFIED THE PURITANS) is apparently an ancestor of the author. Combining diaries by Judge Sewell with anecdotes by her Aunt Charlotte, Ms. LaPlante provides a deep gripping description of a deeply religious Puritan who realized looking back at the atrocities that fundamental extremism led to unnecessary deaths; basically governmental theocracy sanctioned murder. A doting father and husband, he spent the rest of his life following his public confession atoning for what he felt were sins he committed as he wrote papers demanding equality, justice and freedom for everyone even Indians, women, and slaves. This is a timely well written look at the one SALEM WITCH JUDGE who regretted his role in the Salem witch-hunt.
Harriet Klausner
An Irish Country Christmas-Patrick Taylor
An Irish Country Christmas
Patrick Taylor
Forge, Oct 28 2008, $24.95
ISBN: 0765320703
In the quaint Irish village of Ballybucklebo, Dr. Fingal O'Reilly and his partner Dr. Barry Laverty deal as always with the vast ailments of the townsfolk while also dealing with respective attractions to the opposite sex. Fingal has doubts about courting effervescent Kitty O'Halloran except when he is near her; than he has no rational thought. Barry is upset because his girlfriend Patricia Spence at Girton College informs him she may not make it in time for his first Christmas in the small Irish village.
However, all that pales compared to a new doctor in town who steals their patients with remedies that should have the man barred. To country doctors O’Reilly and Laverty, Dr. Fitzpatrick should be called Dr. Quack, but as ridiculous as his prescriptions are, he is gaining patients.
The third Irish County medical cozy (see AN IRISH COUNTRY DOCTOR and AN IRISH COUNTRY VILLAGE) is a fun tale as O’Reilly and Laverty continues to take care of the villagers by combining modern medical practices with homespun “cures” like dressing up as Santa. The story line is warm and uplifting even when Patricia looks like she will not make for the holidays and Fitzpatrick causes harm to the patients he steals. Readers who enjoyed the previous entries will especially want to read this one as the two physicians spend their first holiday season with fans.
Harriet Klausner
Patrick Taylor
Forge, Oct 28 2008, $24.95
ISBN: 0765320703
In the quaint Irish village of Ballybucklebo, Dr. Fingal O'Reilly and his partner Dr. Barry Laverty deal as always with the vast ailments of the townsfolk while also dealing with respective attractions to the opposite sex. Fingal has doubts about courting effervescent Kitty O'Halloran except when he is near her; than he has no rational thought. Barry is upset because his girlfriend Patricia Spence at Girton College informs him she may not make it in time for his first Christmas in the small Irish village.
However, all that pales compared to a new doctor in town who steals their patients with remedies that should have the man barred. To country doctors O’Reilly and Laverty, Dr. Fitzpatrick should be called Dr. Quack, but as ridiculous as his prescriptions are, he is gaining patients.
The third Irish County medical cozy (see AN IRISH COUNTRY DOCTOR and AN IRISH COUNTRY VILLAGE) is a fun tale as O’Reilly and Laverty continues to take care of the villagers by combining modern medical practices with homespun “cures” like dressing up as Santa. The story line is warm and uplifting even when Patricia looks like she will not make for the holidays and Fitzpatrick causes harm to the patients he steals. Readers who enjoyed the previous entries will especially want to read this one as the two physicians spend their first holiday season with fans.
Harriet Klausner
The Magic Bullet-Andrew Neiderman
The Magic Bullet
Andrew Neiderman
Leisure, Dec 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 9780843961898
In Palm Springs, California eight years old Jodi Walker is dying from leukemia. Dr. Carver knows the child has only a few weeks at best and wants to at least rid her of infections that add pain. Jodie’s first cousin fifteen years old Taylor Peterson donates his O negative platelets and white blood cells. A few hours later, Jodi is cured, hungry and wanting to go home as a miracle has occurred.
An elated stunned Carver calls his friend Dr. Allan Parker with the news. Since his mom died from cancer, Allan has been obsessed with finding THE MAGIC BULLET that cures all cancer. He drives to Palm Springs to obtain the most likely reason for the cure, Taylor’s blood that apparently duplicated experiments he conducted with mice. Taylor refuses to donate blood and his mom widow Demi supports his decision while her live in lover Warren wants the cash. Allan hangs around praying he can persuade mother and son while Warren seeks to make money. Soon fifty years old gangster Frankie Vico, dying from cancer, learns of the teen and offers cash to Warren.
This is an exhilarating thriller that grips the audience with the concept of THE MAGIC BULLET elixir. Even when the story line turns from a medical thriller into a more conventional thriller the pace remains hyper. The key cast members are fully developed except for Warren; whose nasty behavior makes one wonder why an intelligent lovely woman would stay with this Joe twelve pack (by half time) especially since her son disdains him. Starting with Jodi’s parents making their death row walk in the hospital, Andrew Neiderman provides a terrific thriller.
Harriet Klausner
Andrew Neiderman
Leisure, Dec 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 9780843961898
In Palm Springs, California eight years old Jodi Walker is dying from leukemia. Dr. Carver knows the child has only a few weeks at best and wants to at least rid her of infections that add pain. Jodie’s first cousin fifteen years old Taylor Peterson donates his O negative platelets and white blood cells. A few hours later, Jodi is cured, hungry and wanting to go home as a miracle has occurred.
An elated stunned Carver calls his friend Dr. Allan Parker with the news. Since his mom died from cancer, Allan has been obsessed with finding THE MAGIC BULLET that cures all cancer. He drives to Palm Springs to obtain the most likely reason for the cure, Taylor’s blood that apparently duplicated experiments he conducted with mice. Taylor refuses to donate blood and his mom widow Demi supports his decision while her live in lover Warren wants the cash. Allan hangs around praying he can persuade mother and son while Warren seeks to make money. Soon fifty years old gangster Frankie Vico, dying from cancer, learns of the teen and offers cash to Warren.
This is an exhilarating thriller that grips the audience with the concept of THE MAGIC BULLET elixir. Even when the story line turns from a medical thriller into a more conventional thriller the pace remains hyper. The key cast members are fully developed except for Warren; whose nasty behavior makes one wonder why an intelligent lovely woman would stay with this Joe twelve pack (by half time) especially since her son disdains him. Starting with Jodi’s parents making their death row walk in the hospital, Andrew Neiderman provides a terrific thriller.
Harriet Klausner
The Unusual Suspects-Dana Stabenow (editor)
The Unusual Suspects
Dana Stabenow (editor)
Ace, Dec 2008, $14.00
ISBN: 9780441016372
These superb twelve new tales focus on the convergence of mystery and suspense inside a fantasy realm. The stories are all well written, holding up nicely to its predecessor collection (see POWERS OF DETECTION). Charlaine Harris provides a Sookie entry while Simon R. Green returns to the Nightside and the editor Ms. Stabenow takes her fans back to Mnemosynea for what she describes as a “Seer and Sword” thriller. The other entries are strong with deep characters such as Laura Anne Gilman’s loan shark dragon star of “Illumination”. Carole Nelson Douglas’ “Bogieman” answers one of the deepest fundamental questions of the universe: who wants Sam Spade dead (than again who does not might be easier to answer)? Likewise John Straley responds to another question of the ages: what does Santa do during his off season? Whether it is Donna Andrews’s Gwynn the apprentice returning to cast a “spellbound” on her fans to read her story or Mike Doogan a “Glamour” satirizing the sub-genre, readers will enjoy this compilation. The remaining four are excellent contributions by top tier authors (Michael A. Stackpole, Sharon Sinn, Michael Armstrong and Laurie R. King).
Harriet Klausner
Dana Stabenow (editor)
Ace, Dec 2008, $14.00
ISBN: 9780441016372
These superb twelve new tales focus on the convergence of mystery and suspense inside a fantasy realm. The stories are all well written, holding up nicely to its predecessor collection (see POWERS OF DETECTION). Charlaine Harris provides a Sookie entry while Simon R. Green returns to the Nightside and the editor Ms. Stabenow takes her fans back to Mnemosynea for what she describes as a “Seer and Sword” thriller. The other entries are strong with deep characters such as Laura Anne Gilman’s loan shark dragon star of “Illumination”. Carole Nelson Douglas’ “Bogieman” answers one of the deepest fundamental questions of the universe: who wants Sam Spade dead (than again who does not might be easier to answer)? Likewise John Straley responds to another question of the ages: what does Santa do during his off season? Whether it is Donna Andrews’s Gwynn the apprentice returning to cast a “spellbound” on her fans to read her story or Mike Doogan a “Glamour” satirizing the sub-genre, readers will enjoy this compilation. The remaining four are excellent contributions by top tier authors (Michael A. Stackpole, Sharon Sinn, Michael Armstrong and Laurie R. King).
Harriet Klausner
Liberation: Being The Adventures Of The Slick Six After The Collapse Of The United States of America
Liberation: Being The Adventures Of The Slick Six After The Collapse Of The United States of America
Brian Francis Slattery
Tor, Oct 2008, $14.95
ISBN: 0765320460
The worst financial crisis to ever hit the United Stated has left the nation divided into regions as the dollar is not even worth the paper it was once printed on. In that downward spiral environs as people starve and health care is non existent for most, Marco Angelo Oliveira escapes from prison after five years on a prison ship. He plans to return to the Slick Six crime family infamous for their criminal cons and capers.
Marco is stunned to learn two of his brethren were “sold” into slavery as have others who will work for food. He decides the old gang needs to be brought back together to save this region from the abusive rulers. Meanwhile, the New York City mob chieftain the Aardvark wants no opposition to his ruthless rule. He wants Marco and the Slick Six deep six before they can regroup and sends his goons to do the job.
This exciting timely futuristic thriller focuses on the aftermath following the economic collapse of the United States of America into separate region-nations. The story line is fast-paced with a comic book exaggerated confrontation between good and evil. Thus the prime adversaries come across as stereotypes. However, in spite of the two dimensional cast, this is a superb tale that strongly contends a USA collapse will lead to warlords running a back to Adam Smith pure capitalistic economy based on indentured servants and slavery as the working class.
Harriet Klausner
Brian Francis Slattery
Tor, Oct 2008, $14.95
ISBN: 0765320460
The worst financial crisis to ever hit the United Stated has left the nation divided into regions as the dollar is not even worth the paper it was once printed on. In that downward spiral environs as people starve and health care is non existent for most, Marco Angelo Oliveira escapes from prison after five years on a prison ship. He plans to return to the Slick Six crime family infamous for their criminal cons and capers.
Marco is stunned to learn two of his brethren were “sold” into slavery as have others who will work for food. He decides the old gang needs to be brought back together to save this region from the abusive rulers. Meanwhile, the New York City mob chieftain the Aardvark wants no opposition to his ruthless rule. He wants Marco and the Slick Six deep six before they can regroup and sends his goons to do the job.
This exciting timely futuristic thriller focuses on the aftermath following the economic collapse of the United States of America into separate region-nations. The story line is fast-paced with a comic book exaggerated confrontation between good and evil. Thus the prime adversaries come across as stereotypes. However, in spite of the two dimensional cast, this is a superb tale that strongly contends a USA collapse will lead to warlords running a back to Adam Smith pure capitalistic economy based on indentured servants and slavery as the working class.
Harriet Klausner
The Focus Factory-Darrell Bain and Gerald Mills
The Focus Factory
Darrell Bain and Gerald Mills
Twilight Times, Jun 2008, $18.95
ISBN: 9781931201964
Murray Blake is stunned as he feels his life has collapsed. First, his firm shuts down his project, ending his research into helping autistic idiot-savants when his work showed promise and is at a critical stage. Second illegal immigrants killed his family. Although he considers Alice’s Red Queen is an optimist with her philosophy of perpetual running to remain in one place, he feels he fell down the rabbit hole. Still grieving, Murray ponders how pathetic the government is as it fumbles its reason for existing, deal with man-made or natural disasters.
With time on his hands, Murray decides to use his research to solve the illegal immigration issue that has caused him so much personal anguish. He tests his findings on himself. Soon afterward, the scientist becomes a key cog in a scheme to solve all of America’s most vexing problems starting with illegal immigration.
THE FOCUS FACTORY is an engaging political satire that has science fiction roots. The story line lampoons the foibles of the industrial-government complex that share the common goal that the bottom line supersedes any real solutions to issues unless it feeds the bottom line. Extrapolating failures like Katrina and the Illegal Immigration responses (what happened to those two problems as they seem to have faded away during the current campaign); Darrell Bain and Gerald Mills provide a strong saga. Murray makes the tale work as a beaten down man refusing to allow the Queen of Hearts to direct her minion with “off with his head” without fighting back.
Harriet Klausner
Darrell Bain and Gerald Mills
Twilight Times, Jun 2008, $18.95
ISBN: 9781931201964
Murray Blake is stunned as he feels his life has collapsed. First, his firm shuts down his project, ending his research into helping autistic idiot-savants when his work showed promise and is at a critical stage. Second illegal immigrants killed his family. Although he considers Alice’s Red Queen is an optimist with her philosophy of perpetual running to remain in one place, he feels he fell down the rabbit hole. Still grieving, Murray ponders how pathetic the government is as it fumbles its reason for existing, deal with man-made or natural disasters.
With time on his hands, Murray decides to use his research to solve the illegal immigration issue that has caused him so much personal anguish. He tests his findings on himself. Soon afterward, the scientist becomes a key cog in a scheme to solve all of America’s most vexing problems starting with illegal immigration.
THE FOCUS FACTORY is an engaging political satire that has science fiction roots. The story line lampoons the foibles of the industrial-government complex that share the common goal that the bottom line supersedes any real solutions to issues unless it feeds the bottom line. Extrapolating failures like Katrina and the Illegal Immigration responses (what happened to those two problems as they seem to have faded away during the current campaign); Darrell Bain and Gerald Mills provide a strong saga. Murray makes the tale work as a beaten down man refusing to allow the Queen of Hearts to direct her minion with “off with his head” without fighting back.
Harriet Klausner
The Melanin Apocalypse-Darrell Bain
The Melanin Apocalypse
Darrell Bain
Twilight Times, Jun 2008, $16.95
ISBN: 9781933353708
The genetically altered virus surfaced in Africa killing anyone whose body cells contained a certain level of melanin. Dark skinned people were dying in biblical numbers. As Africa descends into deadly anarchy, the virus leaves the continent for other nations around the world. Globalization collapses drowning the global economy in its tsunami. In the United States, mob chaos begins to reign so Martial Law is invoked.
While everyone is reeling and rioting and looting is everywhere, and CDC scientists work around the clock for a cure, a second virus explodes on the world. This time the customized killer is Middle Eastern people. At about the same time, Church of Blacks militant members lay siege to the CDC. Former soldier Doug Craddock, a Caucasian, providing security to the scientists, tries to persuade the angry militants that this is their best bet for a cure; but no one seems interested in anything except stringing up a white man
The exciting THE MELANIN APOCALYPSE is perfect timing with the economy crashing and the Powell endorsement properly targeting the hate towards specific groups as the real anti-Americanism. The premise is built on genome research allows customizing medical cures can also do the opposite causing specified global holocausts. However, the key to this superb cautionary science fiction thriller is how people act and react to the customized deadly viruses.
Harriet Klausner
Darrell Bain
Twilight Times, Jun 2008, $16.95
ISBN: 9781933353708
The genetically altered virus surfaced in Africa killing anyone whose body cells contained a certain level of melanin. Dark skinned people were dying in biblical numbers. As Africa descends into deadly anarchy, the virus leaves the continent for other nations around the world. Globalization collapses drowning the global economy in its tsunami. In the United States, mob chaos begins to reign so Martial Law is invoked.
While everyone is reeling and rioting and looting is everywhere, and CDC scientists work around the clock for a cure, a second virus explodes on the world. This time the customized killer is Middle Eastern people. At about the same time, Church of Blacks militant members lay siege to the CDC. Former soldier Doug Craddock, a Caucasian, providing security to the scientists, tries to persuade the angry militants that this is their best bet for a cure; but no one seems interested in anything except stringing up a white man
The exciting THE MELANIN APOCALYPSE is perfect timing with the economy crashing and the Powell endorsement properly targeting the hate towards specific groups as the real anti-Americanism. The premise is built on genome research allows customizing medical cures can also do the opposite causing specified global holocausts. However, the key to this superb cautionary science fiction thriller is how people act and react to the customized deadly viruses.
Harriet Klausner
The Vampire Apocalypse: Descent into Chaos-Derek Gunn
The Vampire Apocalypse: Descent into Chaos
Derek Gunn
Black Death, Oct 2008, $12.99
ISBN: 9780979988134
Two years ago with earth’s nonrenewable energy sources all but depleted and civilizations declining, the vampire horde surfaced and attacked humans. The vampires won the war. As the lower species on the food chain, humans have become cattle; a serum given by the vamps to their food supply turns them docile.
Still there remain resistance groups including one warrior unit that killed Nero, the leader of the Cabal vampire territory. Peter Harris accomplished the impossible deed and pushes to go on the offensive since vampires are territorial creatures hiding inside their respective Cabal and the Master Vampires distrust one another. The Von Kruger Cabal in Indiana has great power but a low human population while the Wentworth Cabalp has no power but a large army. Using guerillla techniques and warfare, Peter manipulates the pride of each Master so that the Cabals go to war with one another. However a new danger surfaces as it is learned that the serum proves fatal to humans, thralls and vampires. Peter is determined to rescue the human cattle while the Von Kruger-Wentworth vampire civil war continues unabated.
Part two of The Vampire Apocalypse (see A WORLD TORN ASUNDER) gives readers insight into the thralls, humans who periodically exchange fluids with their master vampire, which turns them into super soldiers. Many volunteered to survive, but like the purebred humans they have schemes inside of plots to obtain more power. Derek Gunn is a master vampire writer who provides his fans with a graphic frightening world that hooks the audience as few military horror sagas do.
Harriet Klausner
Derek Gunn
Black Death, Oct 2008, $12.99
ISBN: 9780979988134
Two years ago with earth’s nonrenewable energy sources all but depleted and civilizations declining, the vampire horde surfaced and attacked humans. The vampires won the war. As the lower species on the food chain, humans have become cattle; a serum given by the vamps to their food supply turns them docile.
Still there remain resistance groups including one warrior unit that killed Nero, the leader of the Cabal vampire territory. Peter Harris accomplished the impossible deed and pushes to go on the offensive since vampires are territorial creatures hiding inside their respective Cabal and the Master Vampires distrust one another. The Von Kruger Cabal in Indiana has great power but a low human population while the Wentworth Cabalp has no power but a large army. Using guerillla techniques and warfare, Peter manipulates the pride of each Master so that the Cabals go to war with one another. However a new danger surfaces as it is learned that the serum proves fatal to humans, thralls and vampires. Peter is determined to rescue the human cattle while the Von Kruger-Wentworth vampire civil war continues unabated.
Part two of The Vampire Apocalypse (see A WORLD TORN ASUNDER) gives readers insight into the thralls, humans who periodically exchange fluids with their master vampire, which turns them into super soldiers. Many volunteered to survive, but like the purebred humans they have schemes inside of plots to obtain more power. Derek Gunn is a master vampire writer who provides his fans with a graphic frightening world that hooks the audience as few military horror sagas do.
Harriet Klausner
Down in Texas-Delilah Devlin
Down in Texas
Delilah Devlin
Kensington Aphrodisia, Nov 2008, $12.95
ISBN: 0758228724
"Wearing His Brand”. Ever since Lyssa McDonough met Brand Tynan as a child she understood what her daddy and mama meant when they each defined the worth of a man. Now an adult she must persuade her man that she is his woman.
"Slow Ride". While working as a teenage ranch hand at her husband’s spread Daniel Tynan hid as best he could that he loved Maggie Dermott. Now the much younger man tries to persuade the widow that in spite of their age difference to take a chance on them.
"Straight Up Soldier”. After serving in the theater of operation, Mac McDonough has left the military. Suki Reese knows her ex will hurt her so she accepts Mac’s offer to protect her. Neither expected the distraction of their attraction.
These three hot interrelated Texas romances are all well written tales with deep lead characters in each. Readers will relish the Texas heat as Delilah Devlin delightfully delvers.
Harriet Klausner
Delilah Devlin
Kensington Aphrodisia, Nov 2008, $12.95
ISBN: 0758228724
"Wearing His Brand”. Ever since Lyssa McDonough met Brand Tynan as a child she understood what her daddy and mama meant when they each defined the worth of a man. Now an adult she must persuade her man that she is his woman.
"Slow Ride". While working as a teenage ranch hand at her husband’s spread Daniel Tynan hid as best he could that he loved Maggie Dermott. Now the much younger man tries to persuade the widow that in spite of their age difference to take a chance on them.
"Straight Up Soldier”. After serving in the theater of operation, Mac McDonough has left the military. Suki Reese knows her ex will hurt her so she accepts Mac’s offer to protect her. Neither expected the distraction of their attraction.
These three hot interrelated Texas romances are all well written tales with deep lead characters in each. Readers will relish the Texas heat as Delilah Devlin delightfully delvers.
Harriet Klausner
Angel Unaware-Elizabeth Sinclair
Angel Unaware
Elizabeth Sinclair
Medallion, Dec 2008, $7.95
ISBN 9781933836317
Dora de Angelo struggles to fit in amidst the angels. She knows she came here differently than most everyone else as her soul went straight to heaven rather than a stop as a mortal. Perhaps that explains her lack of angelic skills.
After some more bungling, her boss grants her wish to become a mortal with the stipulation she returns to heaven once Christmas occurs, three weeks form now. Dora poses as a nanny to six-year-old orphan Penny while showing the child how to be a kid again, and to help Penny's cynical guardian Uncle Tony to learn the meaning of love, which he has forgotten.
This amusing lighthearted angelic romance is fun to read as the nanny from the Celestial Maintenance Department learns human housekeeping chores while helping young Penny regain her smile and Uncle Tony find his heart. The breezy story line is ideal for the Christmas holidays with its uplifting message and with a great final twist reminiscent of the classic Gift of the Magi spin. Fans will enjoy Elizabeth Sinclair’s fine version of Tavares’ “Heaven Must be Missing an Angel”.
Harriet Klausner
Elizabeth Sinclair
Medallion, Dec 2008, $7.95
ISBN 9781933836317
Dora de Angelo struggles to fit in amidst the angels. She knows she came here differently than most everyone else as her soul went straight to heaven rather than a stop as a mortal. Perhaps that explains her lack of angelic skills.
After some more bungling, her boss grants her wish to become a mortal with the stipulation she returns to heaven once Christmas occurs, three weeks form now. Dora poses as a nanny to six-year-old orphan Penny while showing the child how to be a kid again, and to help Penny's cynical guardian Uncle Tony to learn the meaning of love, which he has forgotten.
This amusing lighthearted angelic romance is fun to read as the nanny from the Celestial Maintenance Department learns human housekeeping chores while helping young Penny regain her smile and Uncle Tony find his heart. The breezy story line is ideal for the Christmas holidays with its uplifting message and with a great final twist reminiscent of the classic Gift of the Magi spin. Fans will enjoy Elizabeth Sinclair’s fine version of Tavares’ “Heaven Must be Missing an Angel”.
Harriet Klausner
A Lost Touch of Magic-Amy Tolnitch
A Lost Touch of Magic
Amy Tolnitch
Medallion, Dec 2008, $7.95
ISBN: 9781934755518
Padruig MacCoinneach left his heritage and his Highland home vowing never to come back to Castle MacCoinneach. However, when his late sister’s ghost demands he go home to protect their sibling and their clan, he does so by becoming the chieftain a role he disdained. Padruig also learns that he must marry Aimili de Grantham, who has placed him on a pedestal since childhood, if he wants an ally; she is the price.
Aimili prefers horses to people as she can communicate better with steeds using her psychic skills. Sad that he crumbled from his place of adulation in her heart, Aimili still loves the brute, who shows not one iota of interest in her. She plans to seduce her spouse even as they must team up to prevent evil creeping through the walls of Castle MacCoinneach.
Medieval paranormal romance fans will appreciate the fourth “Touch of …” thriller due to the behavior of the prime player Padruig who rightfully feels overwhelmed and should be as he stars in two co-equal plots involving women he loves in peril. In some ways the audience will feel as overwhelmed as the hero as the story line constantly switches back and forth between Padruig’s concerns for his sister and his concerns for his wife. Neither truly takes charge nor do they fully merge into one cohesive main plot. Still fans will enjoy Amy Tolnitch’s intriguing historical due to Padruig’s travails.
Harriet Klausner
Amy Tolnitch
Medallion, Dec 2008, $7.95
ISBN: 9781934755518
Padruig MacCoinneach left his heritage and his Highland home vowing never to come back to Castle MacCoinneach. However, when his late sister’s ghost demands he go home to protect their sibling and their clan, he does so by becoming the chieftain a role he disdained. Padruig also learns that he must marry Aimili de Grantham, who has placed him on a pedestal since childhood, if he wants an ally; she is the price.
Aimili prefers horses to people as she can communicate better with steeds using her psychic skills. Sad that he crumbled from his place of adulation in her heart, Aimili still loves the brute, who shows not one iota of interest in her. She plans to seduce her spouse even as they must team up to prevent evil creeping through the walls of Castle MacCoinneach.
Medieval paranormal romance fans will appreciate the fourth “Touch of …” thriller due to the behavior of the prime player Padruig who rightfully feels overwhelmed and should be as he stars in two co-equal plots involving women he loves in peril. In some ways the audience will feel as overwhelmed as the hero as the story line constantly switches back and forth between Padruig’s concerns for his sister and his concerns for his wife. Neither truly takes charge nor do they fully merge into one cohesive main plot. Still fans will enjoy Amy Tolnitch’s intriguing historical due to Padruig’s travails.
Harriet Klausner
Lie to Me-Starr Ambrose
Lie to Me
Starr Ambrose
Pocket, Dec 2008, $6.99
ISBN 9781416586647
Eleanor Coggins strongly believes that Banner Westfield killed his wife, her best friend; she plans to prove her assertion. She breaks into Banner’s mansion seeking proof, but is caught by Banner's half-brother, Jack Payton.
Jack is also seeking evidence; in his case he searches for proof that Banner has gotten the family business involved in some illegal dealings. He gives Ellie a choice of helping him and her by her posing as his fiancee. Together they seek evidence of Banner’s wrongdoing while also trying to help obtain custody of his daughter. Banner trusts neither so sets in motion a plan to destroy the engaged couple.
The triangular dysfunctional relationship seems real and makes for a great romantic suspense thriller though some critical threats are left dangling. The key is the suspicious Westfield does not trust Payton or Coggins so he plans to learn who she is and lure the pair into a trap of their own making. Fans will appreciate this one sitting tale with a fabulous spin while wondering not just whether Eleanor and Jack will make it together, but whether they will make it together alive or dead.
Harriet Klausner
Starr Ambrose
Pocket, Dec 2008, $6.99
ISBN 9781416586647
Eleanor Coggins strongly believes that Banner Westfield killed his wife, her best friend; she plans to prove her assertion. She breaks into Banner’s mansion seeking proof, but is caught by Banner's half-brother, Jack Payton.
Jack is also seeking evidence; in his case he searches for proof that Banner has gotten the family business involved in some illegal dealings. He gives Ellie a choice of helping him and her by her posing as his fiancee. Together they seek evidence of Banner’s wrongdoing while also trying to help obtain custody of his daughter. Banner trusts neither so sets in motion a plan to destroy the engaged couple.
The triangular dysfunctional relationship seems real and makes for a great romantic suspense thriller though some critical threats are left dangling. The key is the suspicious Westfield does not trust Payton or Coggins so he plans to learn who she is and lure the pair into a trap of their own making. Fans will appreciate this one sitting tale with a fabulous spin while wondering not just whether Eleanor and Jack will make it together, but whether they will make it together alive or dead.
Harriet Klausner
Jury Rigged-Laurie Moore
Jury Rigged
Laurie Moore
Five Star, Dec 2008, $25.95
ISBN 9781594147104
In Fort Worth, Cezanne Martin left the police department to practice law. One morning, she wakes up to find Darlene Driskoll holding a gun to her face. Driskoll forces Martin into her car, but the attorney manages to escape. Knowing this is not over, Martin turns to FWPD star detective, Wolfgang “Slash” Vaughn for help from the crazed killer who escaped from her incarceration.
Soon after her traumatic experience, Martin learns her long missing dad Bob died and that her elderly Aunt Velda lives in poverty inside a mansion. Finally her brother, Henri Matisse Martin, arrives demanding his share of the estate. Between family to include her teenage ward Deuteronomy “Duty” Devilrow and a killer, Martin decides the latter is safer.
The third humorous Martin investigative thriller (see LADY GODIVA MURDER and THE WILD ORCHID SOCIETY) is a hoot from the hood as Duty provides enlightening commentary on the big show. The story line is fast-paced especially with deadly deranged Driskoll stalking. Between Duty’s asides and in your face comments and Cezanne’s struggles to survive her family, Slash, Duty and Driskoll, Fort Worth will never be the same.
Harriet Klausner
Laurie Moore
Five Star, Dec 2008, $25.95
ISBN 9781594147104
In Fort Worth, Cezanne Martin left the police department to practice law. One morning, she wakes up to find Darlene Driskoll holding a gun to her face. Driskoll forces Martin into her car, but the attorney manages to escape. Knowing this is not over, Martin turns to FWPD star detective, Wolfgang “Slash” Vaughn for help from the crazed killer who escaped from her incarceration.
Soon after her traumatic experience, Martin learns her long missing dad Bob died and that her elderly Aunt Velda lives in poverty inside a mansion. Finally her brother, Henri Matisse Martin, arrives demanding his share of the estate. Between family to include her teenage ward Deuteronomy “Duty” Devilrow and a killer, Martin decides the latter is safer.
The third humorous Martin investigative thriller (see LADY GODIVA MURDER and THE WILD ORCHID SOCIETY) is a hoot from the hood as Duty provides enlightening commentary on the big show. The story line is fast-paced especially with deadly deranged Driskoll stalking. Between Duty’s asides and in your face comments and Cezanne’s struggles to survive her family, Slash, Duty and Driskoll, Fort Worth will never be the same.
Harriet Klausner
Sunborn-Jeffrey A. Carver
Sunborn
Jeffrey A. Carver
Tor, Oct 2008, $27.95
ISBN: 0312864531
Earthling John Bandicut is bone tired after being exiled from his home planet, saving his world and subsequently two others. World saving is a tiring vocation. He currently travels through interstellar space with other exiles including one residing inside his head; they are a band of aliens from all sorts of orbs. John looks forward to rest when they reach their destination, a space station in the Orion Nebula sector.
However, he and his cohorts soon learn of a pandemic conspiracy to eradicate the sentient stars residing in this part of space. Struggling with communicating with the intended victims, John and his friends put off R&R to prevent genocide at a time when his homeworld also faces a major threat.
This is a superb outer space thriller starring a misunderstood hero and his alien peers. The cast is vast so except for John none seem more than two dimensional yet those key players provide keen perspectives as point of view changes inside of the non-stop action. Jeffrey A. Carver returns to his Chaos Chronicles universe for the first in a decade with an exciting throw back science fiction thriller.
Harriet Klausner
Jeffrey A. Carver
Tor, Oct 2008, $27.95
ISBN: 0312864531
Earthling John Bandicut is bone tired after being exiled from his home planet, saving his world and subsequently two others. World saving is a tiring vocation. He currently travels through interstellar space with other exiles including one residing inside his head; they are a band of aliens from all sorts of orbs. John looks forward to rest when they reach their destination, a space station in the Orion Nebula sector.
However, he and his cohorts soon learn of a pandemic conspiracy to eradicate the sentient stars residing in this part of space. Struggling with communicating with the intended victims, John and his friends put off R&R to prevent genocide at a time when his homeworld also faces a major threat.
This is a superb outer space thriller starring a misunderstood hero and his alien peers. The cast is vast so except for John none seem more than two dimensional yet those key players provide keen perspectives as point of view changes inside of the non-stop action. Jeffrey A. Carver returns to his Chaos Chronicles universe for the first in a decade with an exciting throw back science fiction thriller.
Harriet Klausner
Orphan’s Alliance-Robert Buettner
Orphan’s Alliance
Robert Buettner
Orbit, Nov 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 0316001740
It has been over three decades since humans and Slugs (pseudocephalopods) have been at war while slowly earth is learning more about the universe and the blobs are located on the Outworlds; brought there many millennia ago by the slugs as slaves to mine Covite, which powers their C Drive ships. Mankind alos has the technology, which has made the hostilities less one sided.
Lieutenant General Jason Wilder is on the Outworld Tressel where the two powers Traessens and Irdians exist and are the former is more advanced. The human militia gives them the weapons needed to defeat the Iridians. The Trassel want to use it to build up their Mouseport, a limp of rock that is only one jump point to any planet including earth. When Jason returns to Traesel, he finds the Iridians being treated like the Jews in Nazi Germany yet they build a Mouseport in hopes humanity will help them. Only the military miscalculated leaving Wilder fighting for his life in a scenario in which one mistake could destroy the Mouseport and kill all the humans inside.
Robert Buettner is a master writer of military science fiction in outer space as he demonstrates in ORPHAN’S ALLIANCE (and for that matter the entire Orphan saga). Jason is an orphan who has made the Army his family; he cares about the welfare of his troops and is less rigid and authoritarian than most officers. Readers will find his vulnerability and humanity in wartime fascinating as he fights for his world while knowing he sends some of his finest to their death.
Harriet Klausner
Robert Buettner
Orbit, Nov 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 0316001740
It has been over three decades since humans and Slugs (pseudocephalopods) have been at war while slowly earth is learning more about the universe and the blobs are located on the Outworlds; brought there many millennia ago by the slugs as slaves to mine Covite, which powers their C Drive ships. Mankind alos has the technology, which has made the hostilities less one sided.
Lieutenant General Jason Wilder is on the Outworld Tressel where the two powers Traessens and Irdians exist and are the former is more advanced. The human militia gives them the weapons needed to defeat the Iridians. The Trassel want to use it to build up their Mouseport, a limp of rock that is only one jump point to any planet including earth. When Jason returns to Traesel, he finds the Iridians being treated like the Jews in Nazi Germany yet they build a Mouseport in hopes humanity will help them. Only the military miscalculated leaving Wilder fighting for his life in a scenario in which one mistake could destroy the Mouseport and kill all the humans inside.
Robert Buettner is a master writer of military science fiction in outer space as he demonstrates in ORPHAN’S ALLIANCE (and for that matter the entire Orphan saga). Jason is an orphan who has made the Army his family; he cares about the welfare of his troops and is less rigid and authoritarian than most officers. Readers will find his vulnerability and humanity in wartime fascinating as he fights for his world while knowing he sends some of his finest to their death.
Harriet Klausner
The Flaxen Femme Fatale-John Zakour
The Flaxen Femme Fatale
John Zakour
Daw, Dec 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 9780756405199
It is after 2070 on Earth and the only remaining independent private investigator is Zachary Nixon Johnson, a modern day Marlowe who has been shot many times, tangled with psychos containing psychic powers, and defied the political military power structure. Nothing surprises him so when he wakes up to the vision of a beautiful bimbo Natasha lying in his bed next to him he listens when she warns him “they” will want him to find her; she says “don’t”.
She appears at his office and repeats the same lines. Six androids grab Zach and take him to General Sandy who wants to hire him find and bring in Natasha. Natasha is a cyborg created by the military with super powers including the ability to kill thousands with her mind. Zach follows her trail across the United States and concludes she is not evil, but others want to use her mind as a weapon of mass destruction. Regardless of his beliefs and feelings, his task is to bring her back to the authorities.
John Zakour has written a serio-comic noir set six plus decades in the future and starring figuratively a Marlowe clone with the addition of HARV the computer in his head and a power weapon up his sleeve. HARV brings humor in a Jack Benny kind of way with his observations on the human condition while also insuring his host does not get them killed. The carrying out of the assignment is fun to follow as readers will enjoy the latest misadventures of the last private sleuth.
Harriet Klausner
John Zakour
Daw, Dec 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 9780756405199
It is after 2070 on Earth and the only remaining independent private investigator is Zachary Nixon Johnson, a modern day Marlowe who has been shot many times, tangled with psychos containing psychic powers, and defied the political military power structure. Nothing surprises him so when he wakes up to the vision of a beautiful bimbo Natasha lying in his bed next to him he listens when she warns him “they” will want him to find her; she says “don’t”.
She appears at his office and repeats the same lines. Six androids grab Zach and take him to General Sandy who wants to hire him find and bring in Natasha. Natasha is a cyborg created by the military with super powers including the ability to kill thousands with her mind. Zach follows her trail across the United States and concludes she is not evil, but others want to use her mind as a weapon of mass destruction. Regardless of his beliefs and feelings, his task is to bring her back to the authorities.
John Zakour has written a serio-comic noir set six plus decades in the future and starring figuratively a Marlowe clone with the addition of HARV the computer in his head and a power weapon up his sleeve. HARV brings humor in a Jack Benny kind of way with his observations on the human condition while also insuring his host does not get them killed. The carrying out of the assignment is fun to follow as readers will enjoy the latest misadventures of the last private sleuth.
Harriet Klausner
The Man for Me-Gemma Bruce
The Man for Me
Gemma Bruce
Kensington Brava, Dec 2008, $14.00
ISBN 9780758216236
Sports Today is a popular national weekly magazine. Writer J.T. Green writes for the magazine with hopes that players, managers and fans will take her work as honest serious reporting. However, an embarrassing locker room incident leaves her in exile in Pennsylvania covering the news no one but a local would be interested in.
She is covering the Gilbeytown Beavers, a team with a losing streak. In town is renowned superstar pitcher Tommy Bainbridge, who plans to help the Beavers win. When the pitcher and the reporter meet, they are attracted to one another, but between their jobs implying an intimate relationship taboo and their distrust of the other’s vocation, this couple has no chance but to strike out especially when JT uncovers a conspiracy for the team to lose.
This fun sports romance with a nod to the movie Major League is a home run as baseball pulls the nine inning plot. J.T. is a feisty independent reporter doing her job while Tommy is the perfect throwback athletic hero (some will insist caricature). The venue is terrifically described and the investigation filled with suspense. Additionally baseball fans will enjoy their romance as he strikes out with her but keeps swinging the bat in an effort to hit a game winning home run.
Harriet Klausner
Gemma Bruce
Kensington Brava, Dec 2008, $14.00
ISBN 9780758216236
Sports Today is a popular national weekly magazine. Writer J.T. Green writes for the magazine with hopes that players, managers and fans will take her work as honest serious reporting. However, an embarrassing locker room incident leaves her in exile in Pennsylvania covering the news no one but a local would be interested in.
She is covering the Gilbeytown Beavers, a team with a losing streak. In town is renowned superstar pitcher Tommy Bainbridge, who plans to help the Beavers win. When the pitcher and the reporter meet, they are attracted to one another, but between their jobs implying an intimate relationship taboo and their distrust of the other’s vocation, this couple has no chance but to strike out especially when JT uncovers a conspiracy for the team to lose.
This fun sports romance with a nod to the movie Major League is a home run as baseball pulls the nine inning plot. J.T. is a feisty independent reporter doing her job while Tommy is the perfect throwback athletic hero (some will insist caricature). The venue is terrifically described and the investigation filled with suspense. Additionally baseball fans will enjoy their romance as he strikes out with her but keeps swinging the bat in an effort to hit a game winning home run.
Harriet Klausner
Deep Night-Caroline Petit
Deep Night
Caroline Petit
Soho, Dec 2008, $24.00
ISBN 9781569475300
In 1937 in Hong Kong Jonathan Hawatyne and his fiancee antiques dealer Leah Kolbe attend a movie when the second Sino-Japanese War begins. They are separated as the Japanese easily take the city. However, Leah flees the dangerous occupation by boat to Macau where she fortunately finds work and some safety at the British Consulate.
She is worried about Jonathan who seems to have disappeared, but she is happy to be alive. Benjamin Eldersen meets Leah and tries to persuade her to help him in his quest to abduct the son of a key Japanese ammunition and steel manufacturer. She agrees to assist him as a successful snatch could disrupt Japanese war plans.
This enjoyable 1930s romantic espionage thriller provides readers with a fascinating tour of Hong Kong and Macau as the Japanese invade China. The story line focuses on survival in an occupation zone that will hook readers. Although Leah's torment for her lost lover is right, she never pulls off the deep poignancy as she comes across shallow and hollow. Still Caroline Petit provides a deep look at two Chinese cities during the Second Sino-Japanese War.
Harriet Klausner
Caroline Petit
Soho, Dec 2008, $24.00
ISBN 9781569475300
In 1937 in Hong Kong Jonathan Hawatyne and his fiancee antiques dealer Leah Kolbe attend a movie when the second Sino-Japanese War begins. They are separated as the Japanese easily take the city. However, Leah flees the dangerous occupation by boat to Macau where she fortunately finds work and some safety at the British Consulate.
She is worried about Jonathan who seems to have disappeared, but she is happy to be alive. Benjamin Eldersen meets Leah and tries to persuade her to help him in his quest to abduct the son of a key Japanese ammunition and steel manufacturer. She agrees to assist him as a successful snatch could disrupt Japanese war plans.
This enjoyable 1930s romantic espionage thriller provides readers with a fascinating tour of Hong Kong and Macau as the Japanese invade China. The story line focuses on survival in an occupation zone that will hook readers. Although Leah's torment for her lost lover is right, she never pulls off the deep poignancy as she comes across shallow and hollow. Still Caroline Petit provides a deep look at two Chinese cities during the Second Sino-Japanese War.
Harriet Klausner
The Fortune Teller's Daughter- Lila Shaara
The Fortune Teller's Daughter
Lila Shaara
Ballantine, Dec 2008, $25.00
ISBN 9780345485670
University teacher and writer Harry Sterling fears he might have writer’s block as he cannot even fathom a topic. Harry uses alcohol to hide from what he assumes will be his next failure. However he becomes animated when he hears a student comment that local psychic Josie Dupree implied that renowned physicist Charles Ziegart did not discover what he is famous for.
A former investigative reporter Harry visits Madame Dupree where he meets her niece, Maggie Roth. He is attracted to her, but she rejects his advances. As he digs deeper into the Ziegart mystery, he continues to try to persuade Maggie to give him a chance. She distrusts him because he is investigating ostensibly Ziegart, but doing so through inquiries into her family.
This is an engaging romantic suspense that is built on the premise of Harry investigating the fortune teller while falling in love with her relative. The characters seem full blooded with flaws such as Harry’s sleuthing incompetence affirms why he is a former investigative reporter. Although a vengeance subplot adds tension, that track fails to connect with the prime story line. Still overall this is a solid romantic mystery.
Harriet Klausner
Lila Shaara
Ballantine, Dec 2008, $25.00
ISBN 9780345485670
University teacher and writer Harry Sterling fears he might have writer’s block as he cannot even fathom a topic. Harry uses alcohol to hide from what he assumes will be his next failure. However he becomes animated when he hears a student comment that local psychic Josie Dupree implied that renowned physicist Charles Ziegart did not discover what he is famous for.
A former investigative reporter Harry visits Madame Dupree where he meets her niece, Maggie Roth. He is attracted to her, but she rejects his advances. As he digs deeper into the Ziegart mystery, he continues to try to persuade Maggie to give him a chance. She distrusts him because he is investigating ostensibly Ziegart, but doing so through inquiries into her family.
This is an engaging romantic suspense that is built on the premise of Harry investigating the fortune teller while falling in love with her relative. The characters seem full blooded with flaws such as Harry’s sleuthing incompetence affirms why he is a former investigative reporter. Although a vengeance subplot adds tension, that track fails to connect with the prime story line. Still overall this is a solid romantic mystery.
Harriet Klausner
Snake Dreams-James D. Doss
Snake Dreams
James D. Doss
St. Martin’s, Nov 2008, $24.95
ISBN: 9780312364601
Ute Shaman Daisy Perika is shopping at the supermarket when someone taps her shoulder to get her attention. Unperturbed by the interruption Daisy greets Chiquita Yazzi, who tells her she is very worried about her sixteen years old daughter, Nancy because the teen is left alone with her abusive stepfather, Hermann Wetzel ever since Chiquita was murdered. Daisy tells the spirit she will do something to try to keep the girl safe.
At the same time, Nancy and her boyfriend plan to rob her house and run away. However, instead someone murders Hermann and the missing boyfriend is the suspect. While this is going on Daisy’s nephew Charlie Moon plans to propose to FBI agent Lila Mae McTeague and sets up a sweet sixteen birthday bash for his Aunt's ward Sarah Frank. His musings and the party are disturbed when a distraught Nancy arrives at the ranch where she steals Sarah's gift and goes on a berserker attack while Granite Creek, Colorado police investigate the Hermann homicide one step behind Daisy and her elderly sidekick.
Loaded with humor, satire, and amusing commentary, the thirteenth Moon investigation is one of the best in a consistently strong series. The cast is zany yet realistic even when Daisy and the late Chiquita have a heart to heart while Charlie is ready to open his heart. Fans of the Moon mysteries and anyone who enjoys an entertaining investigative thriller that effortlessly blends paranormal, amateur sleuth and professional elements will want to read James D. Doss’ exciting story.
Harriet Klausner
James D. Doss
St. Martin’s, Nov 2008, $24.95
ISBN: 9780312364601
Ute Shaman Daisy Perika is shopping at the supermarket when someone taps her shoulder to get her attention. Unperturbed by the interruption Daisy greets Chiquita Yazzi, who tells her she is very worried about her sixteen years old daughter, Nancy because the teen is left alone with her abusive stepfather, Hermann Wetzel ever since Chiquita was murdered. Daisy tells the spirit she will do something to try to keep the girl safe.
At the same time, Nancy and her boyfriend plan to rob her house and run away. However, instead someone murders Hermann and the missing boyfriend is the suspect. While this is going on Daisy’s nephew Charlie Moon plans to propose to FBI agent Lila Mae McTeague and sets up a sweet sixteen birthday bash for his Aunt's ward Sarah Frank. His musings and the party are disturbed when a distraught Nancy arrives at the ranch where she steals Sarah's gift and goes on a berserker attack while Granite Creek, Colorado police investigate the Hermann homicide one step behind Daisy and her elderly sidekick.
Loaded with humor, satire, and amusing commentary, the thirteenth Moon investigation is one of the best in a consistently strong series. The cast is zany yet realistic even when Daisy and the late Chiquita have a heart to heart while Charlie is ready to open his heart. Fans of the Moon mysteries and anyone who enjoys an entertaining investigative thriller that effortlessly blends paranormal, amateur sleuth and professional elements will want to read James D. Doss’ exciting story.
Harriet Klausner
Born to Run-James Grippando
Born to Run
James Grippando
Harper, Dec 2008, $25.95
ISBN: 9780061556111
In his fifties, Vice President Phil Grayson loved hunting so he went to a private land to shoot alligators while officially looking into the reported threat of pythons destroying the adjacent Everglades. Instead he dies when a humongous gator tips the boat and he falls into water filled with alligators and pythons.
President Keys informs former Florida Governor Harry Swyteck that he is on the final list to replace Grayson if he is interested. Harry says yes and asks his son Jack to serve as his chief lawyer; Jack reluctantly agrees as he prefers to remain in Florida but will go to DC. However, Jack hears rumors that Grayson’s death was not a freak accident, but a homicide. He investigates finding ties back to an incident in 1960 Cypress and a cover-up in 2008 Florida and Washington.
This is an exciting action-packed legal thriller that grips the audience once the Veep dies and never slows down as Jack begins to unravel a murder conspiracy. The story line is action, action, and more action that has readers caught up with all that is happening. Fans will relish Jack’s latest tale that also strains his improved relationship with his dad and his significant other.
Harriet Klausner
James Grippando
Harper, Dec 2008, $25.95
ISBN: 9780061556111
In his fifties, Vice President Phil Grayson loved hunting so he went to a private land to shoot alligators while officially looking into the reported threat of pythons destroying the adjacent Everglades. Instead he dies when a humongous gator tips the boat and he falls into water filled with alligators and pythons.
President Keys informs former Florida Governor Harry Swyteck that he is on the final list to replace Grayson if he is interested. Harry says yes and asks his son Jack to serve as his chief lawyer; Jack reluctantly agrees as he prefers to remain in Florida but will go to DC. However, Jack hears rumors that Grayson’s death was not a freak accident, but a homicide. He investigates finding ties back to an incident in 1960 Cypress and a cover-up in 2008 Florida and Washington.
This is an exciting action-packed legal thriller that grips the audience once the Veep dies and never slows down as Jack begins to unravel a murder conspiracy. The story line is action, action, and more action that has readers caught up with all that is happening. Fans will relish Jack’s latest tale that also strains his improved relationship with his dad and his significant other.
Harriet Klausner
Perfect Circle-Carlos J. Cortes
Perfect Circle
Carlos J. Cortes
Bantam, Dec 2008, $$6.99
ISBN: 9780553591620
Hugh Reece, President of International Mining Corporation, regrets what he did that drove his heir grandson Paul away. He knows the Congo discovery needs Paul as the lead field geologist opening the shaft and going down the four miles into the earth to discover what is there. The firm contacts the estranged Paul who, though he remains irate with IMC and his grandpa, agrees to invesitgate.
However, as Paul and his crew prepare for the inner earth journey, the Congolese natives who have lived here for generations, know what he will find. They have been waiting for this day and believe Paul is the chosen one to rapel down the chute to either save or destroy civilization as the west knows it.
This is an exhilarating brisk science fiction thriller with echoes of Journey to the Center of the Earth. The story line is fast-paced from the moment Paul reaches the Congo and never slows down. However, it is the strong characterizations especially the flawed and remorseful Hugh and the angry Paul who bring a human frailty to the PERFECT CIRCLE.
Harriet Klausner
Carlos J. Cortes
Bantam, Dec 2008, $$6.99
ISBN: 9780553591620
Hugh Reece, President of International Mining Corporation, regrets what he did that drove his heir grandson Paul away. He knows the Congo discovery needs Paul as the lead field geologist opening the shaft and going down the four miles into the earth to discover what is there. The firm contacts the estranged Paul who, though he remains irate with IMC and his grandpa, agrees to invesitgate.
However, as Paul and his crew prepare for the inner earth journey, the Congolese natives who have lived here for generations, know what he will find. They have been waiting for this day and believe Paul is the chosen one to rapel down the chute to either save or destroy civilization as the west knows it.
This is an exhilarating brisk science fiction thriller with echoes of Journey to the Center of the Earth. The story line is fast-paced from the moment Paul reaches the Congo and never slows down. However, it is the strong characterizations especially the flawed and remorseful Hugh and the angry Paul who bring a human frailty to the PERFECT CIRCLE.
Harriet Klausner
The United States of Atlantis-Harry Turtledove
The United States of Atlantis
Harry Turtledove
Roc, Dec 2008, $25.95
ISBN: 045146236X
The war with France is over as England has defeated the French; forcing them out of Atlantis. King George sends troops to solidify his control even as the Atlanteans are already upset over no representation in Parliament.
When the Redcoats turn the eastern seaports into occupation zones, the locals are outraged as they no longer can freely sell their goods. Increasingly Atlanteans are discussing revolution as their liberties are being trampled. The rebels choose former English officer with battle experience during the French War Victor Radcliff to lead their ragtag forces against the mightiest army in the world as he and others envision a new order of freedom for the THE UNITED STATES OF ATLANTIS.
The saga of the eighth continent (see OPENING ATLANTIS) continues in this engaging alternate historical fantasy.The story line is fast-paced and gripping with strong characters especially the reluctat hero Radcliff. However what hooks the audience is the obvious comparative analysis to the American Revolution as sub-genre fans will relish figuring out what is identical, similar, and radically different in the birth of a nation. Mr. Turtledove provides a refreshing middle tale.
Harriet Klausner
Harry Turtledove
Roc, Dec 2008, $25.95
ISBN: 045146236X
The war with France is over as England has defeated the French; forcing them out of Atlantis. King George sends troops to solidify his control even as the Atlanteans are already upset over no representation in Parliament.
When the Redcoats turn the eastern seaports into occupation zones, the locals are outraged as they no longer can freely sell their goods. Increasingly Atlanteans are discussing revolution as their liberties are being trampled. The rebels choose former English officer with battle experience during the French War Victor Radcliff to lead their ragtag forces against the mightiest army in the world as he and others envision a new order of freedom for the THE UNITED STATES OF ATLANTIS.
The saga of the eighth continent (see OPENING ATLANTIS) continues in this engaging alternate historical fantasy.The story line is fast-paced and gripping with strong characters especially the reluctat hero Radcliff. However what hooks the audience is the obvious comparative analysis to the American Revolution as sub-genre fans will relish figuring out what is identical, similar, and radically different in the birth of a nation. Mr. Turtledove provides a refreshing middle tale.
Harriet Klausner
American Quest-Sienna Skyy
American Quest
Sienna Skyy
The Story Plant, Sep 2008, $24.95
ISBN: 9780981608709
The Auxilium and the Pravus are at a sort of tug of war with humanity as the rope. The former tries to help mankind become all the species can be while the latter works on the fall of people by eradicating any residual decency. The battleground is usually balanced but rarely a particular person is born who will bring goodness or vileness to all in their circle.
In that environs engaged lovers Bruce and Gloria are the latest hostages in this eternal battle. The Pravus Macul spirit Enervata has taken demonic possession of Gloria. Bruce is her only hope and he despairs on whether he is up to the quest. He is joined by allies who search for the Four Pillars of Humanity, which if found and activated will enable Bruce to fight to the death Enervata.
AMERICAN QUEST is an exciting urban fantasy in which the audience will want to join the trek across the country. Bruce is a terrific hero willing to die to save the life of his beloved; others also sacrifice to assist him on his impossible quest. The background mythos is cleverly introduced as an interwoven part of the excellent story line. Sienna Skyy soars with this stupendous opening saga.
Harriet Klausner
Sienna Skyy
The Story Plant, Sep 2008, $24.95
ISBN: 9780981608709
The Auxilium and the Pravus are at a sort of tug of war with humanity as the rope. The former tries to help mankind become all the species can be while the latter works on the fall of people by eradicating any residual decency. The battleground is usually balanced but rarely a particular person is born who will bring goodness or vileness to all in their circle.
In that environs engaged lovers Bruce and Gloria are the latest hostages in this eternal battle. The Pravus Macul spirit Enervata has taken demonic possession of Gloria. Bruce is her only hope and he despairs on whether he is up to the quest. He is joined by allies who search for the Four Pillars of Humanity, which if found and activated will enable Bruce to fight to the death Enervata.
AMERICAN QUEST is an exciting urban fantasy in which the audience will want to join the trek across the country. Bruce is a terrific hero willing to die to save the life of his beloved; others also sacrifice to assist him on his impossible quest. The background mythos is cleverly introduced as an interwoven part of the excellent story line. Sienna Skyy soars with this stupendous opening saga.
Harriet Klausner
One of the Wicked-Harry Shannon
One of the Wicked
Harry Shannon
Five Star, Nov 2008, $25.95
ISBN 1594147035
In Los Angeles Bud "Bone" Stone visits his friend psychologist and radio talk-show host Mick Callahan to ask a big favor though they have not seen one another in years. Bone explains he owes money to a Vegas mobster who might harm his former girlfriend due to failed payments. He wants Mick to keep Brandi DeLillo safe while he finds a few hundred thousand to pay off dangerous Big Paul Pesci. Although he knows he needs to avoid trouble and is losing his radio spot to a right wing extremist with an IQ in negative numbers, Mick agrees because he owes Bone for saving his life during their Navy SEAL days.
Mick gets some of his friends to help him watch the woman. However, the case takes two nasty spins. Big Paul summons Mick to a chit chat in his casino in the Valley of Fire where he is told what to do or else he and compatriots will lose joints, limbs, and lives to his henchman Nikolaou Argetoianu. Also apparently Stone also stole money from a neighborhood dealer and Big Paul needs to send a loud message to wannabes even if that means killing Mick if he cannot immediately find Stone.
The third Callahan thriller (see EYE OF THE BURNING MAN and MEMORIAL DAY) ONE OF THE WICKED is an exhilarating tale that grips readers from the moment that Stone visits Mick and never slows down as the hero and his team try to protect Brandi and find Stone. The story line is fast-paced as a sober Mick begins to learn how deep in sh*t his friend really is. Even though the key cast (except somewhat AA alumni Mick) is never fully developed beyond one superficial trait each, the action is everything in this one sitting thriller.
Harriet Klausner
Harry Shannon
Five Star, Nov 2008, $25.95
ISBN 1594147035
In Los Angeles Bud "Bone" Stone visits his friend psychologist and radio talk-show host Mick Callahan to ask a big favor though they have not seen one another in years. Bone explains he owes money to a Vegas mobster who might harm his former girlfriend due to failed payments. He wants Mick to keep Brandi DeLillo safe while he finds a few hundred thousand to pay off dangerous Big Paul Pesci. Although he knows he needs to avoid trouble and is losing his radio spot to a right wing extremist with an IQ in negative numbers, Mick agrees because he owes Bone for saving his life during their Navy SEAL days.
Mick gets some of his friends to help him watch the woman. However, the case takes two nasty spins. Big Paul summons Mick to a chit chat in his casino in the Valley of Fire where he is told what to do or else he and compatriots will lose joints, limbs, and lives to his henchman Nikolaou Argetoianu. Also apparently Stone also stole money from a neighborhood dealer and Big Paul needs to send a loud message to wannabes even if that means killing Mick if he cannot immediately find Stone.
The third Callahan thriller (see EYE OF THE BURNING MAN and MEMORIAL DAY) ONE OF THE WICKED is an exhilarating tale that grips readers from the moment that Stone visits Mick and never slows down as the hero and his team try to protect Brandi and find Stone. The story line is fast-paced as a sober Mick begins to learn how deep in sh*t his friend really is. Even though the key cast (except somewhat AA alumni Mick) is never fully developed beyond one superficial trait each, the action is everything in this one sitting thriller.
Harriet Klausner
Deadly Bones-Boris Riskin
Deadly Bones
Boris Riskin
Five Star, Nov 2008, $25.95
ISBN 9781594147159
Former Shakespearean teacher Jake Wanderman knows he is lucky to have survived his recent encounter with the Russian Mafia (see SCRAMBLED EGGS). However, when his beloved late wife’s friend TV star Toby Welch, asks Jake to investigate the brutal murder of her father, art dealer Cormac Blather, Jake agrees.
Homicide Detective Sienna Nolan does not want Jake on the case, but knows she cannot prevent him from sleuthing. Thus she teams up with him finding clues that tie Cormac’s homicide and that of an art forger Chase McCleod to billionaire art collector Bryson Mergenthaler. Hints of fraud involving a missing biblical ossuary emulate from Jerusalem. Sienna is unable to go so encouraged by his rabbi Jake travels to Israel not quite prepared that some people want to send him home in a coffin while Israeli police detective Liat strongly suggests he return to the states.
DEADLY BONES is an interesting investigative tale starring a depressed hero still grieving his wife’s death although the two female cops who enter his life give him an emotional lift. The story line is fast-paced with a lot of knife play from an unknown adversary leaving a growing death toll behind. Jake is at his best in Jerusalem where he does what all former Shakespearean teachers do alienate the cops (same as he does in the States). Although overwhelmed at times by the Bard, fans will enjoy this fine mostly amateur sleuth with the additional insight into the Jewish mitzvah of davening with Tefillin.
Harriet Klausner
Boris Riskin
Five Star, Nov 2008, $25.95
ISBN 9781594147159
Former Shakespearean teacher Jake Wanderman knows he is lucky to have survived his recent encounter with the Russian Mafia (see SCRAMBLED EGGS). However, when his beloved late wife’s friend TV star Toby Welch, asks Jake to investigate the brutal murder of her father, art dealer Cormac Blather, Jake agrees.
Homicide Detective Sienna Nolan does not want Jake on the case, but knows she cannot prevent him from sleuthing. Thus she teams up with him finding clues that tie Cormac’s homicide and that of an art forger Chase McCleod to billionaire art collector Bryson Mergenthaler. Hints of fraud involving a missing biblical ossuary emulate from Jerusalem. Sienna is unable to go so encouraged by his rabbi Jake travels to Israel not quite prepared that some people want to send him home in a coffin while Israeli police detective Liat strongly suggests he return to the states.
DEADLY BONES is an interesting investigative tale starring a depressed hero still grieving his wife’s death although the two female cops who enter his life give him an emotional lift. The story line is fast-paced with a lot of knife play from an unknown adversary leaving a growing death toll behind. Jake is at his best in Jerusalem where he does what all former Shakespearean teachers do alienate the cops (same as he does in the States). Although overwhelmed at times by the Bard, fans will enjoy this fine mostly amateur sleuth with the additional insight into the Jewish mitzvah of davening with Tefillin.
Harriet Klausner
A Murder Too Close-Penny Mickelbury
A Murder Too Close
Penny Mickelbury
Five Star, Nov 2008, $25.95
ISBN 9781594147128
Once the melting pot that welcomed new immigrants, many residents of New York City East Side neighborhoods near the Ground Zero crater distrust newcomers especially those with Asian garb since the Twin Towers disaster. Hearing rumors of private investigator Phil Rodriquez’s gutting someone’s male anatomy, former school mate chum Sam Epstein, co-owner of a cleaning store, asks him to rough Hindu teenage Frankie who he wants to stay away from his fourteen years old niece Sasha Heller whose mom died in the WTC on 9/11, Phil refuses.
Phil decides to eat at the Indian restaurant owned by Frankie’s parents to insure the teen is not a punk. However, by the time he arrives the restaurant is an inferno; Phil assumes Uncle Sammy committed the hate crime. He later learns a delivery man died in the blaze. Homeland Security agents go after the victims of the fire because of their heritage though they are legal and the insurance company refuses to pay insisting an investigation is underway to insure this was not self inflicted arson. Other “Thems” are hurt too either by assaults or by complaints to HSD about their behavior that sends agents on these Thems. Phil and his business partner Yolanda Aguierre get involved as the feds and the cops seem to target the legal immigrants only, not the arsonist or the xenophobic stalkers.
Phil’s investigation is exciting as he runs through roadblocks from HSD, local hate advocates, and perhaps the Russian Mafia. However, what makes A MURDER TO CLOSE excellent is Penny Mickelbury who provides a strong case that helpless outrage has led to the loss of liberty for some; which extrapolates to all. The story line looks closely at people who lost loved ones on 9/11 and how they have reacted since while also providing a deep glimpse into the lives of Muslims, Hindu and Sikh residents trying to make it in an atmosphere of hate. Phil, Yolanda, Sasha’s grandfather, and others welcome the newcomers while HSD, insurance firms, and some locals harass the Thems.
Harriet Klausner
Penny Mickelbury
Five Star, Nov 2008, $25.95
ISBN 9781594147128
Once the melting pot that welcomed new immigrants, many residents of New York City East Side neighborhoods near the Ground Zero crater distrust newcomers especially those with Asian garb since the Twin Towers disaster. Hearing rumors of private investigator Phil Rodriquez’s gutting someone’s male anatomy, former school mate chum Sam Epstein, co-owner of a cleaning store, asks him to rough Hindu teenage Frankie who he wants to stay away from his fourteen years old niece Sasha Heller whose mom died in the WTC on 9/11, Phil refuses.
Phil decides to eat at the Indian restaurant owned by Frankie’s parents to insure the teen is not a punk. However, by the time he arrives the restaurant is an inferno; Phil assumes Uncle Sammy committed the hate crime. He later learns a delivery man died in the blaze. Homeland Security agents go after the victims of the fire because of their heritage though they are legal and the insurance company refuses to pay insisting an investigation is underway to insure this was not self inflicted arson. Other “Thems” are hurt too either by assaults or by complaints to HSD about their behavior that sends agents on these Thems. Phil and his business partner Yolanda Aguierre get involved as the feds and the cops seem to target the legal immigrants only, not the arsonist or the xenophobic stalkers.
Phil’s investigation is exciting as he runs through roadblocks from HSD, local hate advocates, and perhaps the Russian Mafia. However, what makes A MURDER TO CLOSE excellent is Penny Mickelbury who provides a strong case that helpless outrage has led to the loss of liberty for some; which extrapolates to all. The story line looks closely at people who lost loved ones on 9/11 and how they have reacted since while also providing a deep glimpse into the lives of Muslims, Hindu and Sikh residents trying to make it in an atmosphere of hate. Phil, Yolanda, Sasha’s grandfather, and others welcome the newcomers while HSD, insurance firms, and some locals harass the Thems.
Harriet Klausner
High Spirits-Alice Duncan
High Spirits
Alice Duncan
Five Star, Nov 2008, $25.95
ISBN 9781594146954
In February 1921 in Pasadena, California Daisy Gumm Majesty makes a living for her and her disabled WWI veteran husband Billy by pretending to be a spiritualist. Her otherworldly control Rolly, who she invented when she was ten years old, enables her to put bread on the table as Billy is unable to work though he despises how she makes money.
Her best client Mrs. Kincaid begs Daisy to do a reading at a speakeasy; she says no hiding behind Rolly not stepping inside a den of iniquity. However, eventually she reluctantly agrees though not for her client’s daughter Stacy who calls herself Flossie Mosser who frequents the joint run by mobster Vicenzo Maggiori. With Mrs. Kincaid’s kind son Harold escorting her Daisy enters the speakeasy while Billy’s best friend homicide detective Sam Rotondo worries about her especially when the cops raid the joint.
More a satirical historical lampooning the Prohibition stereotypes than a mystery, fans of Alice Duncan’s spirited post WWI thriller will relish this fine entry as Daisy gets into one troubling incident after another. Although the plot is thin, the insight into 1920s California is deep and vivid while the cast is strong especially Billy struggling mentally due to his war related physical disabilities. Fans will enjoy Mrs. Majesty’s latest reading.
Harriet Klausner
Alice Duncan
Five Star, Nov 2008, $25.95
ISBN 9781594146954
In February 1921 in Pasadena, California Daisy Gumm Majesty makes a living for her and her disabled WWI veteran husband Billy by pretending to be a spiritualist. Her otherworldly control Rolly, who she invented when she was ten years old, enables her to put bread on the table as Billy is unable to work though he despises how she makes money.
Her best client Mrs. Kincaid begs Daisy to do a reading at a speakeasy; she says no hiding behind Rolly not stepping inside a den of iniquity. However, eventually she reluctantly agrees though not for her client’s daughter Stacy who calls herself Flossie Mosser who frequents the joint run by mobster Vicenzo Maggiori. With Mrs. Kincaid’s kind son Harold escorting her Daisy enters the speakeasy while Billy’s best friend homicide detective Sam Rotondo worries about her especially when the cops raid the joint.
More a satirical historical lampooning the Prohibition stereotypes than a mystery, fans of Alice Duncan’s spirited post WWI thriller will relish this fine entry as Daisy gets into one troubling incident after another. Although the plot is thin, the insight into 1920s California is deep and vivid while the cast is strong especially Billy struggling mentally due to his war related physical disabilities. Fans will enjoy Mrs. Majesty’s latest reading.
Harriet Klausner
Dead Ringer-Michael A. Black and Julie Hyzy
Dead Ringer
Michael A. Black and Julie Hyzy
Five Star, Nov 2008, $25.95
ISBN 9781594147135
In Chicago World’s Heavyweight Kickboxing champion and private investigator Ron Shade accepts an assignment from “Big” Dick Mackenzie of Midwestern Olympia Insurance company. Dick claims they paid out $12 million to the widow of deceased Robert Bayless and the dead man’s company when he died in a downstate car accident; however, based on Robert’s distinctive laugh, Dick insists he is alive in Vegas.
At the same time her boss assigns TV investigative reporter Alex St. James to go undercover amidst the homeless. The case is dangerous so she conceals an illegal Taser. However, her inquiry spins into insurance fraud and murder as Alex’s investigation ties in with that of Ron.
These two Chicago based mystery series are strong sagas in their own right, but merging them proves a winner as for the most part the two sleuths rotate leads. The subplots are exciting until they merge proving the whole is greater than the sum of the parts even when the parts work quite well as separate subplots. With a hint of an attraction between the two stars, fans will insist Michael A. Black and Julie Hyzy provide more collaborative novels like this one.
Harriet Klausner
Michael A. Black and Julie Hyzy
Five Star, Nov 2008, $25.95
ISBN 9781594147135
In Chicago World’s Heavyweight Kickboxing champion and private investigator Ron Shade accepts an assignment from “Big” Dick Mackenzie of Midwestern Olympia Insurance company. Dick claims they paid out $12 million to the widow of deceased Robert Bayless and the dead man’s company when he died in a downstate car accident; however, based on Robert’s distinctive laugh, Dick insists he is alive in Vegas.
At the same time her boss assigns TV investigative reporter Alex St. James to go undercover amidst the homeless. The case is dangerous so she conceals an illegal Taser. However, her inquiry spins into insurance fraud and murder as Alex’s investigation ties in with that of Ron.
These two Chicago based mystery series are strong sagas in their own right, but merging them proves a winner as for the most part the two sleuths rotate leads. The subplots are exciting until they merge proving the whole is greater than the sum of the parts even when the parts work quite well as separate subplots. With a hint of an attraction between the two stars, fans will insist Michael A. Black and Julie Hyzy provide more collaborative novels like this one.
Harriet Klausner
Running from the Puppet Master-D-L Nelson
Running from the Puppet Master
D-L Nelson
Five Star, Nov 2008, $25.95
ISBN 9781594147081
In 1962 in affluent Stonebridge, Massachusetts, her wealthy New England family demands Leah Stockbridge attend one of the prominent liberal art colleges for wealthy females aligned with the Ivy League or Tufts in or order to meet a proper husband. Leah refuses as she finds those courses boring and rejects her mom’s objective . Instead she registers at the Massachusetts College of Art with dreams of painting on the Left Banke in the City of Lights..
A few years later Leah plans to marry Michael, cosidered an unacceptable “foreigner” by her parents. He ends up being killed by a streetcar. Following the horrific tragedy, Leah leaves the States for Paris where she plans to become a painter. She meets Swiss banker Jean-Luc Perroset, who charms her and soon they marry. Leah no longer paints as her time is spent as a wife and mother running Jean-Luc’s vast estate. She thought they were happy together, but suddenly strange dangerous things begin to happen to Leah while Jean-Luc is non-supportive.
This exciting suspense thriller anchors in 1994, but uses numerous flashbacks to mostly the 1960s, but also the other decades all the way back to 1945. The story line starts off more as a character study of a young woman seeking her independence but once the tragedy sends her to Europe followed by her marriage, the plot veers into a woman in trouble tale. Although the moving around through the second half of the twentieth century can become confusing, it also adds depth to what is happening and why to the heroine. Fans will enjoy this tense tale of an American expatriate RUNNING FROM THE PUPPET MASTER.
Harriet Klausner
D-L Nelson
Five Star, Nov 2008, $25.95
ISBN 9781594147081
In 1962 in affluent Stonebridge, Massachusetts, her wealthy New England family demands Leah Stockbridge attend one of the prominent liberal art colleges for wealthy females aligned with the Ivy League or Tufts in or order to meet a proper husband. Leah refuses as she finds those courses boring and rejects her mom’s objective . Instead she registers at the Massachusetts College of Art with dreams of painting on the Left Banke in the City of Lights..
A few years later Leah plans to marry Michael, cosidered an unacceptable “foreigner” by her parents. He ends up being killed by a streetcar. Following the horrific tragedy, Leah leaves the States for Paris where she plans to become a painter. She meets Swiss banker Jean-Luc Perroset, who charms her and soon they marry. Leah no longer paints as her time is spent as a wife and mother running Jean-Luc’s vast estate. She thought they were happy together, but suddenly strange dangerous things begin to happen to Leah while Jean-Luc is non-supportive.
This exciting suspense thriller anchors in 1994, but uses numerous flashbacks to mostly the 1960s, but also the other decades all the way back to 1945. The story line starts off more as a character study of a young woman seeking her independence but once the tragedy sends her to Europe followed by her marriage, the plot veers into a woman in trouble tale. Although the moving around through the second half of the twentieth century can become confusing, it also adds depth to what is happening and why to the heroine. Fans will enjoy this tense tale of an American expatriate RUNNING FROM THE PUPPET MASTER.
Harriet Klausner
The Crown-Deborah Chester
The Crown
Deborah Chester
Ace, Nov 25 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 9780441016570
Once he was a Praetinor in the Imperial Army, a hero held in high regard by all until he rebelled and was declared a rebel. Angry and bitter, he turned to Shadow (dark magic) but over time regretted his choice. Lord Shadrael is hired by the vile Vindicant Priests who practice blood magic. He is to kidnap the sister of the Emperor Caelan, Lea, who whosse ters turn into pearls. If Shadrael brings her to their compound in brother’s province of Ulinia, they will restore his soul to him.
Lea is an innocent gentle person who practices good magic; she tries to persuade Shadrael not to turn her over to the Vindicants. He ignores her plea although he has come to care about her. After delivering her to the Vindicants, they betray him leaving him to die. His brother tries to save him and raise an army expecting the Emperor to invade while Lea is being used and abused. Shadrael tries to liberate Lea by bargaining with the devilish Vindicants; Lea does likewise with the man she has come to love.
This is a fine blending of sword and sorcery with romantic fantasy. THE CROWN is Deborah Chester at her best. Shadrael is dark even more so when contrasted to Lea’s light. He changes from sacrificing her to sacrificing himself as her goodness overwhelms his badness. Ironically she is willing to do the same to save his soul. The Vindicants cleverly turn the strengths of the pair caring about the other into a weakness better than Karl Rove ever did. Thus this is a character driven thriller as Shadrael begins to find redemption when he found love.
Harriet Klausner
Deborah Chester
Ace, Nov 25 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 9780441016570
Once he was a Praetinor in the Imperial Army, a hero held in high regard by all until he rebelled and was declared a rebel. Angry and bitter, he turned to Shadow (dark magic) but over time regretted his choice. Lord Shadrael is hired by the vile Vindicant Priests who practice blood magic. He is to kidnap the sister of the Emperor Caelan, Lea, who whosse ters turn into pearls. If Shadrael brings her to their compound in brother’s province of Ulinia, they will restore his soul to him.
Lea is an innocent gentle person who practices good magic; she tries to persuade Shadrael not to turn her over to the Vindicants. He ignores her plea although he has come to care about her. After delivering her to the Vindicants, they betray him leaving him to die. His brother tries to save him and raise an army expecting the Emperor to invade while Lea is being used and abused. Shadrael tries to liberate Lea by bargaining with the devilish Vindicants; Lea does likewise with the man she has come to love.
This is a fine blending of sword and sorcery with romantic fantasy. THE CROWN is Deborah Chester at her best. Shadrael is dark even more so when contrasted to Lea’s light. He changes from sacrificing her to sacrificing himself as her goodness overwhelms his badness. Ironically she is willing to do the same to save his soul. The Vindicants cleverly turn the strengths of the pair caring about the other into a weakness better than Karl Rove ever did. Thus this is a character driven thriller as Shadrael begins to find redemption when he found love.
Harriet Klausner
Guinevere's Truth-Jennifer Roberson
Guinevere's Truth
Jennifer Roberson
Five Star, Nov 2008, $25.95
ISBN 9781594141508
These are twenty well written feminist fantasy tales from an author renowned as one of best authors of the sub-genre. The entries contain six from the 1980s; nine from the 1990s (including the title story), and the remaining five from this decade. Most of the early contributions were published in Sword and Sorceriss. The compilation runs much of the gamut of the genre with the emphasis obviously on heroines. Two of them “A Lesser Working” and “Guinevere's Truth” are intriguing Arthurian shorts and two others (“Of Honor and the Lion” and “Blood of Sorcery” have ties in the Chronicles of the Cheysuli realm. Although the tone is vast from humor to subtle irony to conflicting cultures; and the perspective can be from the heroine or a relative (female of course), fans of Jennifer Roberson will appreciate her short story compilation in which one overarching theme whether I be modern America, Cheysuli , or another realm is kick butt females.
Harriet Klausner
Jennifer Roberson
Five Star, Nov 2008, $25.95
ISBN 9781594141508
These are twenty well written feminist fantasy tales from an author renowned as one of best authors of the sub-genre. The entries contain six from the 1980s; nine from the 1990s (including the title story), and the remaining five from this decade. Most of the early contributions were published in Sword and Sorceriss. The compilation runs much of the gamut of the genre with the emphasis obviously on heroines. Two of them “A Lesser Working” and “Guinevere's Truth” are intriguing Arthurian shorts and two others (“Of Honor and the Lion” and “Blood of Sorcery” have ties in the Chronicles of the Cheysuli realm. Although the tone is vast from humor to subtle irony to conflicting cultures; and the perspective can be from the heroine or a relative (female of course), fans of Jennifer Roberson will appreciate her short story compilation in which one overarching theme whether I be modern America, Cheysuli , or another realm is kick butt females.
Harriet Klausner
The Star Garden-Nancy E. Turner
The Star Garden
Nancy E. Turner
Dunne, Nov 2008, $14.95
ISBN: 0312363176
In 1906 Arizona Territory, forty-six years old twice widowed Sarah Agnes Prine lives with a horde of family members in a house rebuilt by rich ruthless Rudolfo Maldonado; who once worked for her and even proposed though she said no. Meanwhile her neighbor Udell Hanna wants the reluctant Sarah to marry him.
When Sarah rides on her property she comes across a nasty stagecoach accident in which the driver and a passenger died. She takes the three survivors, Miss James, Professor Fairhaven and Professor Osterhaus into her large home until they can continue their journey. Udell shows his love for Hannah when he enrolls her in classes at the university where the professors are teaching. As she enjoys school, someone who she thought was a friend is causing dangerous problems on her ranch.
This engaging historical tale is told in a journal format but contains plenty of action while focusing on the life of Sarah just before statehood. Sarah is a stupendous person dealing with courtships, family feuds, bandits and an unknown deadly stalker. Readers will enjoy this deep look at a pioneer who takes the early steps so that a century later women can claim we’ve come a long way.
Harriet Klausner
Nancy E. Turner
Dunne, Nov 2008, $14.95
ISBN: 0312363176
In 1906 Arizona Territory, forty-six years old twice widowed Sarah Agnes Prine lives with a horde of family members in a house rebuilt by rich ruthless Rudolfo Maldonado; who once worked for her and even proposed though she said no. Meanwhile her neighbor Udell Hanna wants the reluctant Sarah to marry him.
When Sarah rides on her property she comes across a nasty stagecoach accident in which the driver and a passenger died. She takes the three survivors, Miss James, Professor Fairhaven and Professor Osterhaus into her large home until they can continue their journey. Udell shows his love for Hannah when he enrolls her in classes at the university where the professors are teaching. As she enjoys school, someone who she thought was a friend is causing dangerous problems on her ranch.
This engaging historical tale is told in a journal format but contains plenty of action while focusing on the life of Sarah just before statehood. Sarah is a stupendous person dealing with courtships, family feuds, bandits and an unknown deadly stalker. Readers will enjoy this deep look at a pioneer who takes the early steps so that a century later women can claim we’ve come a long way.
Harriet Klausner
Good Luck-Whitney Gaskell
Good Luck
Whitney Gaskell
Bantam, Nov 2008, $12.00
ISBN: 9780553591514
In Florida Andrews Prep Principal Dr. Johnson fires her because lazy student Matt Forrester accused her of sexual harassment misconduct. Angry at the false charges that her boss accepts without investigating, Lucy Parker explodes. She has taught literature there for a decade and was teacher of the year two years ago. Her only crime was failing a student who deserved the poor grade. A revelation occurs that Matt’s wealthy parents threatened legal action against the school if Lucy is not fired.
Lucy needs to escape her troubles as she knows the accusation will follow her to any school she applies for employment even as her dilapidated Volvo dies. However, she buys a lottery ticket only to come home to see her husband Elliot in bed with a blonde. The media exposes the Forrester charge so a depressed Lucy, after winning $87 million in the Florida lottery, decides to escape so she heads to Palm Beach where her college buddy Hayden lives. He allows her to stay and gives her a makeover that everyone says makes her gorgeous and glamorous; everyone except Mal, who insists her previous wholesome look, was prettier.
Talk about a negative streak even with the lottery win (more than Melvin and the Bluenotes’ Bad Luck or Short in Pure Luck), Lucy assumes she is bottomed out each time until the next fall from grace occurs. The money enables her to have some flexibility but even she wonders whether she it will change her along the lines of Will Success Spoil Rock Hunter? The school incident has already done that as she is cynical instead of idealistic. Lucy makes the tale intriguing.
Harriet Klausner
Whitney Gaskell
Bantam, Nov 2008, $12.00
ISBN: 9780553591514
In Florida Andrews Prep Principal Dr. Johnson fires her because lazy student Matt Forrester accused her of sexual harassment misconduct. Angry at the false charges that her boss accepts without investigating, Lucy Parker explodes. She has taught literature there for a decade and was teacher of the year two years ago. Her only crime was failing a student who deserved the poor grade. A revelation occurs that Matt’s wealthy parents threatened legal action against the school if Lucy is not fired.
Lucy needs to escape her troubles as she knows the accusation will follow her to any school she applies for employment even as her dilapidated Volvo dies. However, she buys a lottery ticket only to come home to see her husband Elliot in bed with a blonde. The media exposes the Forrester charge so a depressed Lucy, after winning $87 million in the Florida lottery, decides to escape so she heads to Palm Beach where her college buddy Hayden lives. He allows her to stay and gives her a makeover that everyone says makes her gorgeous and glamorous; everyone except Mal, who insists her previous wholesome look, was prettier.
Talk about a negative streak even with the lottery win (more than Melvin and the Bluenotes’ Bad Luck or Short in Pure Luck), Lucy assumes she is bottomed out each time until the next fall from grace occurs. The money enables her to have some flexibility but even she wonders whether she it will change her along the lines of Will Success Spoil Rock Hunter? The school incident has already done that as she is cynical instead of idealistic. Lucy makes the tale intriguing.
Harriet Klausner
Blood Island-Terrell H. Griffin
Blood Island
Terrell H. Griffin
Oceanview, Dec 2008, $24.95
2817 West End Ave
Suite 126-274
Nashville, TN 327203
ISBN: 193351521X
In Longboat Key, Florida retired lawyer Matt Royal does pro bono only with his prime stipulations being shorts and no tie. Matt is taken aback when his ex-wife, Laura arrives at the Key pleading with him to help her. Her stepdaughter Peggy went to Sarasota on spring break, but she never came back; instead she just vanished last seen in Longboat Key.
Matt agrees to investigate her disappearance. He follows several leads only to have Laura vanish too. Since her trail is fresher, Matt begins to track Laura, which leads him the Heaven Can’t Wait Spa in Key West. From there he begins to find a connection to lunatic Reverend Robert William Simmermon who holds religious court on nearby BLOOD ISLAND. This is a place Matt knows he will not just be unwelcome; he will be shark food.
This fast-paced Florida Keys mystery is filled with suspense and a great hero whose sardonic (including self flagellation) humor, makes for an entertaining suspenseful tale and has him
Terrell H. Griffin
Oceanview, Dec 2008, $24.95
2817 West End Ave
Suite 126-274
Nashville, TN 327203
ISBN: 193351521X
In Longboat Key, Florida retired lawyer Matt Royal does pro bono only with his prime stipulations being shorts and no tie. Matt is taken aback when his ex-wife, Laura arrives at the Key pleading with him to help her. Her stepdaughter Peggy went to Sarasota on spring break, but she never came back; instead she just vanished last seen in Longboat Key.
Matt agrees to investigate her disappearance. He follows several leads only to have Laura vanish too. Since her trail is fresher, Matt begins to track Laura, which leads him the Heaven Can’t Wait Spa in Key West. From there he begins to find a connection to lunatic Reverend Robert William Simmermon who holds religious court on nearby BLOOD ISLAND. This is a place Matt knows he will not just be unwelcome; he will be shark food.
This fast-paced Florida Keys mystery is filled with suspense and a great hero whose sardonic (including self flagellation) humor, makes for an entertaining suspenseful tale and has him
Year of the Dog-Henry Chang
Year of the Dog
Henry Chang
Soho, Nov 2008, $24.00
ISBN: 1569475156
In Lower Manhattan in a condominium in a luxurious high rise, four Chinese-Americans are dead due to eight times the normal level of CO in the apartment; two of the deceased are young elementary school age children. NYPD Detective Jack Yu is shook though he hides it as a family wiped out. He concludes a triple murder-suicide occurred with the motive being saving face; something he understands as being an extremely powerful driver amidst the Chinese even third generation American.
Jack is concerned with his friends’ connections to Hong King mobsters. He understands no good can come of that in the long run, but he vows to be there for them as best he can. His childhood pal Tat "Lucky" Louie now runs the local mob while a rookie Koo Jai tries to foolishly pull a stunt on the gang leader. Bookie Sai Go knows he is dying, but his only request is to die with self-respect and not with someone else changing his diapers. To Jack this is his Chinatown.
Not really a police procedural although there are some elements of that sub-genre in the plot, YEAR OF THE DOG is more a culture study of the Manhattan Chinese-American lifestyle. The story line goes extremely deep into the “DNA: of the NYC Chinese-American especially the “save face” driver that has led to murder and suicide. Although the ending is a let down, fans will enjoy Jack’s CHINATOWN BEAT as Henry Chang provides an appealing tale.
Harriet Klausner
Henry Chang
Soho, Nov 2008, $24.00
ISBN: 1569475156
In Lower Manhattan in a condominium in a luxurious high rise, four Chinese-Americans are dead due to eight times the normal level of CO in the apartment; two of the deceased are young elementary school age children. NYPD Detective Jack Yu is shook though he hides it as a family wiped out. He concludes a triple murder-suicide occurred with the motive being saving face; something he understands as being an extremely powerful driver amidst the Chinese even third generation American.
Jack is concerned with his friends’ connections to Hong King mobsters. He understands no good can come of that in the long run, but he vows to be there for them as best he can. His childhood pal Tat "Lucky" Louie now runs the local mob while a rookie Koo Jai tries to foolishly pull a stunt on the gang leader. Bookie Sai Go knows he is dying, but his only request is to die with self-respect and not with someone else changing his diapers. To Jack this is his Chinatown.
Not really a police procedural although there are some elements of that sub-genre in the plot, YEAR OF THE DOG is more a culture study of the Manhattan Chinese-American lifestyle. The story line goes extremely deep into the “DNA: of the NYC Chinese-American especially the “save face” driver that has led to murder and suicide. Although the ending is a let down, fans will enjoy Jack’s CHINATOWN BEAT as Henry Chang provides an appealing tale.
Harriet Klausner
Phenomenal Girl 5-A.J. Menden
Phenomenal Girl 5
A.J. Menden
Dorchester Shomi, Nov 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 0505527863
Lainey Livingston is a do-gooder superhero who cares more about doing the right thing than about her image. She is particularly excited about being accepted by the Elite Hands of Justice (EHJ), the top guns of superherodom. However, before she is deployed by the EHJ, Lainey must serve a two year apprenticeship under the guidance of reincarnist Robert Elliot.
Lainey figures two years will go fast and besides she figures she will learn about super tactics from the world’s smartest person. However, she also knows he is the toughest task master of pupils; having kicked out those he felt were not up to the job. However, as Laney accepts all that Robert hand grenades at her, she falls in love with her teacher. She tries to hide her feelings as superheroes don’t do love and besides he will outlive her by a zillion new lives.
This is a lighthearted fun superhero action-packed romance starring three (read the novel for an explanation) “individuals” struggling with love. The story line is faster than a speeding bullet and more powerful than a locomotive as Lainey’s heart leaps over tall buildings in a single beat. Fans who relish something different will want to read this engaging science fiction romance as the teacher and the pupil must first save Megolopolis before their hearts.
Harriet Klausner
A.J. Menden
Dorchester Shomi, Nov 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 0505527863
Lainey Livingston is a do-gooder superhero who cares more about doing the right thing than about her image. She is particularly excited about being accepted by the Elite Hands of Justice (EHJ), the top guns of superherodom. However, before she is deployed by the EHJ, Lainey must serve a two year apprenticeship under the guidance of reincarnist Robert Elliot.
Lainey figures two years will go fast and besides she figures she will learn about super tactics from the world’s smartest person. However, she also knows he is the toughest task master of pupils; having kicked out those he felt were not up to the job. However, as Laney accepts all that Robert hand grenades at her, she falls in love with her teacher. She tries to hide her feelings as superheroes don’t do love and besides he will outlive her by a zillion new lives.
This is a lighthearted fun superhero action-packed romance starring three (read the novel for an explanation) “individuals” struggling with love. The story line is faster than a speeding bullet and more powerful than a locomotive as Lainey’s heart leaps over tall buildings in a single beat. Fans who relish something different will want to read this engaging science fiction romance as the teacher and the pupil must first save Megolopolis before their hearts.
Harriet Klausner
Amigas and School Scandals-Diana Rodriguez Wallach
Amigas and School Scandals
Diana Rodriguez Wallach
Kensington, October 28 2008, $9.95
ISBN: 9780758225559
After spending her summer with her older brother in Puerto Rico with family she never met before, Mariana Ruiz returns home to suburban Spring Mills, Pennsylvania to go back to high school. Her cousin Lilly Sanchez has come with her to attend Spring Mills High School as a freshman. To everyone’s shock except perhaps Mariana, Lilly is the most popular frosh in the school after only one day. Mariana’s best friends Madison and Emily are outraged and envious of Lilly’s stratospheric nanosecond rise.
Having missed Madison’s Sweet Sixteen party due to her PR vacation, Mariana and her pals plan one for her. Meanwhile her estranged aunt pleads with the family to take her back, but her uncles and her parents have doubts as their anger is bone deep. In spite of her summer fling, Mariana is attracted to her locker buddy, Bobby, but hides her feelings because she is unsure if Emily, who dated him once during the summer, is interested.
This is an entertaining teen drama as Mariana struggles with balancing her loyalty to her friends with welcoming her cousin, as Lilly did for her in AMOR AND SUMMER SECRETS. Mariana’s difficulties ring true with her being pulled in several directions. Fans will appreciate her return home as AMIGAS AND SCHOOL SCANDALS is an engaging contemporary.
Harriet Klausner
Diana Rodriguez Wallach
Kensington, October 28 2008, $9.95
ISBN: 9780758225559
After spending her summer with her older brother in Puerto Rico with family she never met before, Mariana Ruiz returns home to suburban Spring Mills, Pennsylvania to go back to high school. Her cousin Lilly Sanchez has come with her to attend Spring Mills High School as a freshman. To everyone’s shock except perhaps Mariana, Lilly is the most popular frosh in the school after only one day. Mariana’s best friends Madison and Emily are outraged and envious of Lilly’s stratospheric nanosecond rise.
Having missed Madison’s Sweet Sixteen party due to her PR vacation, Mariana and her pals plan one for her. Meanwhile her estranged aunt pleads with the family to take her back, but her uncles and her parents have doubts as their anger is bone deep. In spite of her summer fling, Mariana is attracted to her locker buddy, Bobby, but hides her feelings because she is unsure if Emily, who dated him once during the summer, is interested.
This is an entertaining teen drama as Mariana struggles with balancing her loyalty to her friends with welcoming her cousin, as Lilly did for her in AMOR AND SUMMER SECRETS. Mariana’s difficulties ring true with her being pulled in several directions. Fans will appreciate her return home as AMIGAS AND SCHOOL SCANDALS is an engaging contemporary.
Harriet Klausner
Paper Towns-John Green
Paper Towns
John Green
Dutton, Oct 2008, $17.99
ISBN: 9780525478188
In Orlando they have been next door neighbors for a decade and even saw a corpse together when they were nine years old. However, as they get ready to graduate from high school, Quentin Jacobsen still loves his childhood best friend, Margo Roth Spiegelman, but she moved on to spend time with the cool dudes and he settled for other girls. She became the centerfold for the bad girl and him the nerdy smart guy.
One night she suddenly appears at his bedroom window like she used to do when they were preadolescents. He sneaks out so he does not have to explain to his therapist parents what he is doing and they spend the night on her capers.
The next day Q learns Margo vanished from his life again, but this time she is not even in the neighborhood. Fearing for her going so far as considering she committed suicide, he needs to know if she is okay. With his best friend Radar as his sidekick they follow the clues starting with Margo’s copy of Walt Whitman’s Leaves of Grass.
This is a deep teenage relationship drama with several incredible twists to the connection between the lead couple. Q and Radar’s inquiry is fun to follow as the hero begins to understand the murkiness of love which ironically means not to understand. Along with their sidekick Ben of bleeding masturbation infamy, they make an awesome geek trio while Margo is the fascinating polar opposite as the glamorous bad girl. Fans will enjoy this fine teen mystery as any moment this reviewer expected Alvy Singer to crash across the fourth wall from Annie Hall bringing Marshall McLuhan with him to resolve the amusing psychobabble.
Harriet Klausner
John Green
Dutton, Oct 2008, $17.99
ISBN: 9780525478188
In Orlando they have been next door neighbors for a decade and even saw a corpse together when they were nine years old. However, as they get ready to graduate from high school, Quentin Jacobsen still loves his childhood best friend, Margo Roth Spiegelman, but she moved on to spend time with the cool dudes and he settled for other girls. She became the centerfold for the bad girl and him the nerdy smart guy.
One night she suddenly appears at his bedroom window like she used to do when they were preadolescents. He sneaks out so he does not have to explain to his therapist parents what he is doing and they spend the night on her capers.
The next day Q learns Margo vanished from his life again, but this time she is not even in the neighborhood. Fearing for her going so far as considering she committed suicide, he needs to know if she is okay. With his best friend Radar as his sidekick they follow the clues starting with Margo’s copy of Walt Whitman’s Leaves of Grass.
This is a deep teenage relationship drama with several incredible twists to the connection between the lead couple. Q and Radar’s inquiry is fun to follow as the hero begins to understand the murkiness of love which ironically means not to understand. Along with their sidekick Ben of bleeding masturbation infamy, they make an awesome geek trio while Margo is the fascinating polar opposite as the glamorous bad girl. Fans will enjoy this fine teen mystery as any moment this reviewer expected Alvy Singer to crash across the fourth wall from Annie Hall bringing Marshall McLuhan with him to resolve the amusing psychobabble.
Harriet Klausner
Teaser-Jan Brogan
Teaser
Jan Brogan
St. Martin's, Dec 2008, $24.95
ISBN 9780312359980
Providence Chronicle reporter Hallie Ahern surfs the chat rooms when she comes across a teaser video clip of two teenage girls sexually posing. Excited by the prospects of a story though she is concerned and disgusted by what she saw, Hallie persuades her editors at the newspaper to support an exposé story on the social chat rooms, “Online Dangers: Your teenager is prey”.
As Hallie begins to investigate finding high school age girls who explain the chat rooms and the web-camcorders, one of her contacts suddenly dies. Her boyfriend Rhode Island Assistant Attorney General Matt Cavanaugh demands she ends her inquiry as that interferes with the official one and her newspaper bosses abruptly tell her to cease. Refusing to do so as she feels some guilt over the girl’s death and knows first hand one moves on if they lose a newspaper job due to your convictions (see A CONFIDENTIAL SOURCE), Allie continues her inqury though it may cost her job, boyfriend and life not in that order.
This terrific Rhode Island journalistic investigation (see YESTERDAY'S FATAL) is a superb cautionary tale; although the warning has been sounded many times, it never hurts to hear it again as Jan Brogan counsels parents about predators on the net inside a strong tale. The story line is fast-paced but driven by the courageous Hallie who rejects the notion of quitting even as she is the recipient of incredible pressure to do so. Instead she turns the novel into a strong whodunit that hooks readers from the moment she receives the TEASER.
Harriet Klausner
Jan Brogan
St. Martin's, Dec 2008, $24.95
ISBN 9780312359980
Providence Chronicle reporter Hallie Ahern surfs the chat rooms when she comes across a teaser video clip of two teenage girls sexually posing. Excited by the prospects of a story though she is concerned and disgusted by what she saw, Hallie persuades her editors at the newspaper to support an exposé story on the social chat rooms, “Online Dangers: Your teenager is prey”.
As Hallie begins to investigate finding high school age girls who explain the chat rooms and the web-camcorders, one of her contacts suddenly dies. Her boyfriend Rhode Island Assistant Attorney General Matt Cavanaugh demands she ends her inquiry as that interferes with the official one and her newspaper bosses abruptly tell her to cease. Refusing to do so as she feels some guilt over the girl’s death and knows first hand one moves on if they lose a newspaper job due to your convictions (see A CONFIDENTIAL SOURCE), Allie continues her inqury though it may cost her job, boyfriend and life not in that order.
This terrific Rhode Island journalistic investigation (see YESTERDAY'S FATAL) is a superb cautionary tale; although the warning has been sounded many times, it never hurts to hear it again as Jan Brogan counsels parents about predators on the net inside a strong tale. The story line is fast-paced but driven by the courageous Hallie who rejects the notion of quitting even as she is the recipient of incredible pressure to do so. Instead she turns the novel into a strong whodunit that hooks readers from the moment she receives the TEASER.
Harriet Klausner
Ultimate Weapon-Shannon McKenna
Ultimate Weapon
Shannon McKenna
Kensington Brava, Nov 2008, $14.00
ISBN 9780758211897
Motherhood changes the attitude of even hardened felons as the PTA factor impacts most. Thus former thief Tamara Steele has become an acceptable jewelry designer because her goal is to be the nest mommy to her adopted three-year-old Ukrainian daughter Rachel, whom was rescued from a black-market organ harvesting operation.
However, you can run from your past, but you can’t hide as Tam's history surfaces. Mobster Daddy Novak is angry over the murder of his son Kurt; he thirsts for vengeance with his finger pointing at Tam, who was Kurt’s lover and in Daddy’s mind betrayer.
Nasty gangster Georg Luksch blackmails his subordinate Val Janos, who wants to retire from a life of crime, to abduct Tam. Luksch plans to make her into his sex slave begging him to do anything he wants to her. To rescue his elderly Hungarian “dad” Imre from Luksch Val must hand over the woman he is falling in love with to his odious boss.
Blending heated interludes with caring for a toddler inside a powerful romantic suspense, Shannon McKenna proves she is the sub-genre’s ULTIMATE WEAPON with this superior one sitting thriller. Val and Tam makes the tale work as each is a complete protagonist struggling with the insidious choices. With two nasty villains and one reformed hero seeking the heroine, fans will appreciate this exciting novel.
Harriet Klausner
Shannon McKenna
Kensington Brava, Nov 2008, $14.00
ISBN 9780758211897
Motherhood changes the attitude of even hardened felons as the PTA factor impacts most. Thus former thief Tamara Steele has become an acceptable jewelry designer because her goal is to be the nest mommy to her adopted three-year-old Ukrainian daughter Rachel, whom was rescued from a black-market organ harvesting operation.
However, you can run from your past, but you can’t hide as Tam's history surfaces. Mobster Daddy Novak is angry over the murder of his son Kurt; he thirsts for vengeance with his finger pointing at Tam, who was Kurt’s lover and in Daddy’s mind betrayer.
Nasty gangster Georg Luksch blackmails his subordinate Val Janos, who wants to retire from a life of crime, to abduct Tam. Luksch plans to make her into his sex slave begging him to do anything he wants to her. To rescue his elderly Hungarian “dad” Imre from Luksch Val must hand over the woman he is falling in love with to his odious boss.
Blending heated interludes with caring for a toddler inside a powerful romantic suspense, Shannon McKenna proves she is the sub-genre’s ULTIMATE WEAPON with this superior one sitting thriller. Val and Tam makes the tale work as each is a complete protagonist struggling with the insidious choices. With two nasty villains and one reformed hero seeking the heroine, fans will appreciate this exciting novel.
Harriet Klausner
Defending Angels-Mary Stanton
Defending Angels
Mary Stanton
Berkley, Dec 2008, $7.00
ISBN: 0425224988
In Savannah, Georgia, Bree Winston-Beaufort takes over her late Uncle Franklin’s law practice. While renovating his office, she temporarily rents space walking distance from her town house from weird elderly Mrs. Lavinia Mather who mentions the cemetery turns people off from the historical early eighteenth century edifice.
However, before she can settle into her practice, Bree receives a call from despised billionaire Benjamin Skinner, who pleads with her to defend him. However, as she considers taking on the case, Bree knows there is a minor problem with this client; he is dead. Benjamin desperately needs an attorney to defend him in the Celestial Court for violating the Celestial Law code on avarice. To make a case in his defense, she needs willing witnesses ready to testify that Skinner had altruistic moments. Private investigator Gabriel Striker accompanies Bree as their search for a character witness feels increasingly like finding a needle in a haystack.
The stunned Bree makes this superb paranormal cozy into a great tale as she adapts to the wonder yet perplexing celestial realm, celestial law, and celestial courtroom procedures. Readers will enjoy her journey into the supernatural side of Savannah along side the hunk of a sleuth. Fans who relish something different will want to accompany Bree as she mounts a defense for a client whose middle name is greed in an angelic court not of his peers.
Harriet Klausner
Mary Stanton
Berkley, Dec 2008, $7.00
ISBN: 0425224988
In Savannah, Georgia, Bree Winston-Beaufort takes over her late Uncle Franklin’s law practice. While renovating his office, she temporarily rents space walking distance from her town house from weird elderly Mrs. Lavinia Mather who mentions the cemetery turns people off from the historical early eighteenth century edifice.
However, before she can settle into her practice, Bree receives a call from despised billionaire Benjamin Skinner, who pleads with her to defend him. However, as she considers taking on the case, Bree knows there is a minor problem with this client; he is dead. Benjamin desperately needs an attorney to defend him in the Celestial Court for violating the Celestial Law code on avarice. To make a case in his defense, she needs willing witnesses ready to testify that Skinner had altruistic moments. Private investigator Gabriel Striker accompanies Bree as their search for a character witness feels increasingly like finding a needle in a haystack.
The stunned Bree makes this superb paranormal cozy into a great tale as she adapts to the wonder yet perplexing celestial realm, celestial law, and celestial courtroom procedures. Readers will enjoy her journey into the supernatural side of Savannah along side the hunk of a sleuth. Fans who relish something different will want to accompany Bree as she mounts a defense for a client whose middle name is greed in an angelic court not of his peers.
Harriet Klausner
Rogue’s Home-Hilari Bell
Rogue’s Home
Hilari Bell
Eos, Sep 2008, $17.99
ISBN: 9780060825065
Chivalrous teenager Sir Michael Sevenson, THE LAST KNIGHT, accompanied by his squire roguish reformed burglar Fisk, disobeys his father who ordered him to arrest a woman accused of murder. He refused because he felt she was innocent and honor and justice prevailed. However, his irate dad declares him "unredeemed" and tattooed as such on his wrists for all to see and spurn, which means he is shunned by society. Fisk makes it clear he believes his master is an idiot for choosing honor over a warm bed and a hot meal.
Fisk receives a letter from his sister asking him to return home to deal with a family crisis. Away for about five years, he reluctantly heads to his birth village Ruesport with Michael accompanying him to investigate arson and bribery; the suspect is Fisk’s brother-in-law who the squire would prefer gets hung rather than solve the case and prove his innocence.
The second teenage quixotic medieval tale is a fun mystery in which the two amateur sleuths find their investigation constantly gets them in trouble and danger. The story line is fast-paced from the moment Fisk receives the missive and never slows down as the pair battle Hilari Bell’s equivalent to windmills, but do so with honor. Rotating perspective between the knight and the squire, teen readers will enjoy their squabbles, disagreements and antics in the second amusing adventures of the Last Knight
Harriet Klausner
Hilari Bell
Eos, Sep 2008, $17.99
ISBN: 9780060825065
Chivalrous teenager Sir Michael Sevenson, THE LAST KNIGHT, accompanied by his squire roguish reformed burglar Fisk, disobeys his father who ordered him to arrest a woman accused of murder. He refused because he felt she was innocent and honor and justice prevailed. However, his irate dad declares him "unredeemed" and tattooed as such on his wrists for all to see and spurn, which means he is shunned by society. Fisk makes it clear he believes his master is an idiot for choosing honor over a warm bed and a hot meal.
Fisk receives a letter from his sister asking him to return home to deal with a family crisis. Away for about five years, he reluctantly heads to his birth village Ruesport with Michael accompanying him to investigate arson and bribery; the suspect is Fisk’s brother-in-law who the squire would prefer gets hung rather than solve the case and prove his innocence.
The second teenage quixotic medieval tale is a fun mystery in which the two amateur sleuths find their investigation constantly gets them in trouble and danger. The story line is fast-paced from the moment Fisk receives the missive and never slows down as the pair battle Hilari Bell’s equivalent to windmills, but do so with honor. Rotating perspective between the knight and the squire, teen readers will enjoy their squabbles, disagreements and antics in the second amusing adventures of the Last Knight
Harriet Klausner
The Lost Queen-Prewin Jones
The Lost Queen
Prewin Jones
Eos, Sep 2008, $8.99
ISBN: 9780060871079
Anita Palmer was a typical London teenager until she learned who she really is. In the Realm of Faerie, she is Tania, the seventh daughter of the Royal House, who vanished five centuries ago just prior to her wedding to Lord Gabriel Drake. She crossed THE FAERIE PATH to meet her biological family and save the realm from her evil former fiancé Lord Drake.
Asked by her father King Oberon, Tania knows she must return to the earth she just left a few days ago to find her biological mom, Queen Titania, who disappeared when she did. However, her human parents are irate as they worried about Tania who had not come home for three days. Angry and relieved they ground her and forbid her from seeing her boyfriend Evan Thomas, who on the fairy plane is Edric Chanticleer. However, Tania understands Drake is crossing from THE FAERIE PATH to the mortal plane and must be stopped and Titania must be found; while Anita is expected to remain in her room under punishment.
This action-packed teen fantasy contains strong characterizing and realistic relationships especially those intruding on the princess. The story line is relatively simplistic as the young lead couple mounts a rescue of her biological mom while battling with Drake in an effort to save two realms. Although the ending sets up the third novel without fully closing the prime plot of this tale, Prewin Jones provides an intriguing entry as the daughter and her boyfriend try to stay alive while seeking THE LOST QUEEN.
Harriet Klausner
Prewin Jones
Eos, Sep 2008, $8.99
ISBN: 9780060871079
Anita Palmer was a typical London teenager until she learned who she really is. In the Realm of Faerie, she is Tania, the seventh daughter of the Royal House, who vanished five centuries ago just prior to her wedding to Lord Gabriel Drake. She crossed THE FAERIE PATH to meet her biological family and save the realm from her evil former fiancé Lord Drake.
Asked by her father King Oberon, Tania knows she must return to the earth she just left a few days ago to find her biological mom, Queen Titania, who disappeared when she did. However, her human parents are irate as they worried about Tania who had not come home for three days. Angry and relieved they ground her and forbid her from seeing her boyfriend Evan Thomas, who on the fairy plane is Edric Chanticleer. However, Tania understands Drake is crossing from THE FAERIE PATH to the mortal plane and must be stopped and Titania must be found; while Anita is expected to remain in her room under punishment.
This action-packed teen fantasy contains strong characterizing and realistic relationships especially those intruding on the princess. The story line is relatively simplistic as the young lead couple mounts a rescue of her biological mom while battling with Drake in an effort to save two realms. Although the ending sets up the third novel without fully closing the prime plot of this tale, Prewin Jones provides an intriguing entry as the daughter and her boyfriend try to stay alive while seeking THE LOST QUEEN.
Harriet Klausner
Dragon Strike-E.E. Knight
Dragon Strike
E.E. Knight
Roc, Dec 2008, $14.00
ISBN: 0451462351
After being separated by dwarf slave traders who killed their mother and sister, the three dragon siblings (AuRon, Wistala, and Copper) suffer differing experiences on their way to adulthood. AuRon mated and has a family on the Isle of Ice, which is devoid of humanoids (see DRAGON CHAMPION). His sister Wistala has become a scholar librarian in the Hypatia Empire and believes in intermingling of the species (see DRAGON AVENGER)S. Finally Copper has become the Tyn of the Lavadome who places the needs of dragons before his own (see DRAGON OUTCAST).
While Wisteria works in her library, a demon captures her; after days of torture, the Fire Maidens rescue her and take her to Lavadome where she listens to the Tyn while realizing he is her brother just before AuRon arrives as the emissary of the Red Queen of Ghioz who seeks to conquer Hypatia. The Red Queen offers an alliance with the Lavadome that would make the dragons available to her warriors. Tyn decides for dragonkind to survive, they must live above ground instead of in the mouths of volcanoes hiding and praying they will not be found. He sends his sister to her home and his brother to his family as each prepares for the Red Queen. They all know if allied to her she would betray them.
Book four of the Age of Fire brings this glorious fantasy to a rousing finish with the three sibling stars of the previous novels finally coming together. Throughout the saga, dragons are the protagonists while the hominids (man, dwarf, elf and blighters) are their natural enemies constantly encroaching and killing. In DRAGON STRIKE, the dragons conclude that to survive they must fight even if that means going down in flames; pacifism means death for sure. E.E. Knight makes his world of dragons soar as the audience roots for them to succeed.
Harriet Klausner
E.E. Knight
Roc, Dec 2008, $14.00
ISBN: 0451462351
After being separated by dwarf slave traders who killed their mother and sister, the three dragon siblings (AuRon, Wistala, and Copper) suffer differing experiences on their way to adulthood. AuRon mated and has a family on the Isle of Ice, which is devoid of humanoids (see DRAGON CHAMPION). His sister Wistala has become a scholar librarian in the Hypatia Empire and believes in intermingling of the species (see DRAGON AVENGER)S. Finally Copper has become the Tyn of the Lavadome who places the needs of dragons before his own (see DRAGON OUTCAST).
While Wisteria works in her library, a demon captures her; after days of torture, the Fire Maidens rescue her and take her to Lavadome where she listens to the Tyn while realizing he is her brother just before AuRon arrives as the emissary of the Red Queen of Ghioz who seeks to conquer Hypatia. The Red Queen offers an alliance with the Lavadome that would make the dragons available to her warriors. Tyn decides for dragonkind to survive, they must live above ground instead of in the mouths of volcanoes hiding and praying they will not be found. He sends his sister to her home and his brother to his family as each prepares for the Red Queen. They all know if allied to her she would betray them.
Book four of the Age of Fire brings this glorious fantasy to a rousing finish with the three sibling stars of the previous novels finally coming together. Throughout the saga, dragons are the protagonists while the hominids (man, dwarf, elf and blighters) are their natural enemies constantly encroaching and killing. In DRAGON STRIKE, the dragons conclude that to survive they must fight even if that means going down in flames; pacifism means death for sure. E.E. Knight makes his world of dragons soar as the audience roots for them to succeed.
Harriet Klausner
The Witch's Trinity-Erika Mailman
The Witch's Trinity
Erika Mailman
Three Rivers (crown), Oct 2008, $13.95
ISBN: 9780307351531
In 1507, the villagers of Tierkinddorf are hungry and angry as this is the “second year of no harvest” that follows several poor harvests. They begin to believe a witch has cast an evil satanic curse on them causing nasty weather that led to poor harvests and now just about no crops.
A Dominican friar traveling from town to town to expose witches arrives to the rejoicing of most of the villagers who believe he will uncover the identity of the culprit. He points the finger at Kunne the healer who swears to God she is innocent. Her dismayed best friend elderly Gude feels helpless as she watches Kunne burned at the stake. She also is concerned with her nightmares about witches, the devil and her late husband. Thinking one less mouth to feed, Gude’s resentful daughter-in-law Irmeltrud begins a campaign when her spouse is away desperately hunting that accuses her widowed mother-in-law of witchcraft.
The atmosphere that leads to cynicism, paranoia and witch hunts is incredibly thick as Erika Mailman provides a deep look at a small early sixteenth century German village blaming famine on witches cursing the villagers. The Friar’s presence quickly leads to neighbors pointing the fingers at one another. Although Gude as the narrator at times is hard to understand because of her mental instability that adds to the feel of the era in which a bit of craziness means witch. Fans will enjoy this engaging look while wondering whether Gude’s “visions are supernatural or deranged in origin.
Harriet Klausner
Erika Mailman
Three Rivers (crown), Oct 2008, $13.95
ISBN: 9780307351531
In 1507, the villagers of Tierkinddorf are hungry and angry as this is the “second year of no harvest” that follows several poor harvests. They begin to believe a witch has cast an evil satanic curse on them causing nasty weather that led to poor harvests and now just about no crops.
A Dominican friar traveling from town to town to expose witches arrives to the rejoicing of most of the villagers who believe he will uncover the identity of the culprit. He points the finger at Kunne the healer who swears to God she is innocent. Her dismayed best friend elderly Gude feels helpless as she watches Kunne burned at the stake. She also is concerned with her nightmares about witches, the devil and her late husband. Thinking one less mouth to feed, Gude’s resentful daughter-in-law Irmeltrud begins a campaign when her spouse is away desperately hunting that accuses her widowed mother-in-law of witchcraft.
The atmosphere that leads to cynicism, paranoia and witch hunts is incredibly thick as Erika Mailman provides a deep look at a small early sixteenth century German village blaming famine on witches cursing the villagers. The Friar’s presence quickly leads to neighbors pointing the fingers at one another. Although Gude as the narrator at times is hard to understand because of her mental instability that adds to the feel of the era in which a bit of craziness means witch. Fans will enjoy this engaging look while wondering whether Gude’s “visions are supernatural or deranged in origin.
Harriet Klausner
With Violets-Elizabeth Robards
With Violets
Elizabeth Robards
Avon, Nov 2008, $13.95
ISBN: 0061579122
In 1868 Paris, they have seen one another at the Louvre; they have nodded hello in passing, but not talk. She knows who he is as he is perhaps the most famous painter in the world while she is a novice in comparison. Finally a few weeks later his friend Monsieur Fantin introduces artist Rosalie Reisener and impressionist painter Berthe Morisot to the great artist Edouard Manet, who invites the latter back to his studio.
Over the next few years he paints several portraits of her including her in a black hat WITH VIOLETS. They become friends and lovers although he is married. Their affair is risky until it is finally exposed.
This is an engaging historical biographical fiction of Berthe Morisot whose contemporaries thought nothing of her work and more of her modeling for Manet; her work is now considered some of the best of the French impressionists. However, WITH VIOLETS focuses on her relationship with Manet and not much on her art. Still this is a well written enjoyable fictionalized account of Berthe Morisot starting from the moment she first saw Manet.
Harriet Klausner
Elizabeth Robards
Avon, Nov 2008, $13.95
ISBN: 0061579122
In 1868 Paris, they have seen one another at the Louvre; they have nodded hello in passing, but not talk. She knows who he is as he is perhaps the most famous painter in the world while she is a novice in comparison. Finally a few weeks later his friend Monsieur Fantin introduces artist Rosalie Reisener and impressionist painter Berthe Morisot to the great artist Edouard Manet, who invites the latter back to his studio.
Over the next few years he paints several portraits of her including her in a black hat WITH VIOLETS. They become friends and lovers although he is married. Their affair is risky until it is finally exposed.
This is an engaging historical biographical fiction of Berthe Morisot whose contemporaries thought nothing of her work and more of her modeling for Manet; her work is now considered some of the best of the French impressionists. However, WITH VIOLETS focuses on her relationship with Manet and not much on her art. Still this is a well written enjoyable fictionalized account of Berthe Morisot starting from the moment she first saw Manet.
Harriet Klausner
Kissing Games of the World-Sandi Kahn Shelton
Kissing Games of the World
Sandi Kahn Shelton
Shaye Areheart (Crown), Nov 2008, $23.00
ISBN: 0307393658
In Chester, Connecticut no one who knows sexagenarian Harris Goddard is shocked when much younger single mom Jamie McClintock accompanied by her asthmatic five-year-old son Arley moves in with him and his five-year-old grandson Christopher. Everyone ignores the kids being the same age and perhaps the mom might be there to care for Christopher; the assumption is womanizing Harris has his latest woman move in with him.
However, rumors and scandal explodes when a naked Harris is found dead in Jamie's bed. Everyone assumes the worst about her and some suspect she killed her paramour. Harris’ son Nate believes Jamie is wrong for his son Christopher so he comes to his late dad’s house determined to take his child with him, sell the home, and kick mother and son to the curb. However shocking both of them, Jamie and Nate are attracted to one another, but both has demons even before his dad was found in her bed.
This is a terrific character driven contemporary romance filled with twists and misconceptions. Nate and Jamie do not want their attraction for several reasons, but nether can prevent it from happening. Their respective kids act like children so they enhance the relationship by both driving the adults together and part. Sandi Kahn Shelton provides a wonderful tale of love using a common theme mad fresh by a strong cast.
Harriet Klausner
Sandi Kahn Shelton
Shaye Areheart (Crown), Nov 2008, $23.00
ISBN: 0307393658
In Chester, Connecticut no one who knows sexagenarian Harris Goddard is shocked when much younger single mom Jamie McClintock accompanied by her asthmatic five-year-old son Arley moves in with him and his five-year-old grandson Christopher. Everyone ignores the kids being the same age and perhaps the mom might be there to care for Christopher; the assumption is womanizing Harris has his latest woman move in with him.
However, rumors and scandal explodes when a naked Harris is found dead in Jamie's bed. Everyone assumes the worst about her and some suspect she killed her paramour. Harris’ son Nate believes Jamie is wrong for his son Christopher so he comes to his late dad’s house determined to take his child with him, sell the home, and kick mother and son to the curb. However shocking both of them, Jamie and Nate are attracted to one another, but both has demons even before his dad was found in her bed.
This is a terrific character driven contemporary romance filled with twists and misconceptions. Nate and Jamie do not want their attraction for several reasons, but nether can prevent it from happening. Their respective kids act like children so they enhance the relationship by both driving the adults together and part. Sandi Kahn Shelton provides a wonderful tale of love using a common theme mad fresh by a strong cast.
Harriet Klausner
Highland Captive-Hannah Howell
Highland Captive
Hannah Howell
Zebra, Nov 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 0821780034
In 1500 in Scotland, Aimil and her brother Leith are riding the moors when the ferocious MacGuin clan captures them. Their leader Black Parlan holds the siblings for ransom as he expects her betrothed and her family to pay a fortune, and plans to make her horse Elfking his. Aimil is frightened of the Laird because of the rumors of his dining on babies. However, except for his desire to steal her steed, she quickly finds her warden is a caring leader; nothing at all like his reputation claims.
Aimil refuses to give him her beloved horse as he demands. He understands the love of a good horse so he offers her an alternative choice; she replaces her horse as his ride. As they battle to love, her fiancé plots to kidnap her and his former lover unites with Aimil’s former intended.
This is a reprint of an early 1990s novel (called ELFKING’S LADY) that showcases Hannah Howell’s talent before she became the Queen of Highland historicals. The lead couple is a fun entry ad their gender war over her horse is amusing but turns warm when they kiss. Although the villains should have known better than to try an abduction with Parlan’s reputation; fans of the author will enjoy one of her fine earlier tales.
Harriet Klausner
Hannah Howell
Zebra, Nov 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 0821780034
In 1500 in Scotland, Aimil and her brother Leith are riding the moors when the ferocious MacGuin clan captures them. Their leader Black Parlan holds the siblings for ransom as he expects her betrothed and her family to pay a fortune, and plans to make her horse Elfking his. Aimil is frightened of the Laird because of the rumors of his dining on babies. However, except for his desire to steal her steed, she quickly finds her warden is a caring leader; nothing at all like his reputation claims.
Aimil refuses to give him her beloved horse as he demands. He understands the love of a good horse so he offers her an alternative choice; she replaces her horse as his ride. As they battle to love, her fiancé plots to kidnap her and his former lover unites with Aimil’s former intended.
This is a reprint of an early 1990s novel (called ELFKING’S LADY) that showcases Hannah Howell’s talent before she became the Queen of Highland historicals. The lead couple is a fun entry ad their gender war over her horse is amusing but turns warm when they kiss. Although the villains should have known better than to try an abduction with Parlan’s reputation; fans of the author will enjoy one of her fine earlier tales.
Harriet Klausner
Bamboo and Blood-James Church
Bamboo and Blood
James Church
Dunne, Dec 2008, $23.95
ISBN 9780312372910
In North Korea the Ministry of Public Security Inspector O is assigned to follow a foreigner. O quickly realizes the outsider is working for the Israelis. However, O also realizes that at least one or more other government security agencies are watching him and his superior Chief Inspector Pak.
Meanwhile Pak assigns O to investigate the murder of a North Korean diplomat's wife in Pakistan. However, he is warned not to solve the case, but to only gather known facts about the victim. Bristling over the limitation, O tries to solve the homicide, which only leads to more trouble for the dedicated inspector from other security agencies for his clues lead to the top secret special weapons program.
The third Inspector O investigation (see CORPSE IN THE KORYO and HIDDEN MOON) is once again a great tale more so because of a the deep look into North Korea. O is excellent as he knows other agencies are spying on him to insure he learns very little as the need to know is always restricted. The whodunit and the Israeli espionage caper are both well written to showcase Inspector O’s skills and the paranoia of a regime that sees everyone even loyal citizens as the enemy.
Harriet Klausner
James Church
Dunne, Dec 2008, $23.95
ISBN 9780312372910
In North Korea the Ministry of Public Security Inspector O is assigned to follow a foreigner. O quickly realizes the outsider is working for the Israelis. However, O also realizes that at least one or more other government security agencies are watching him and his superior Chief Inspector Pak.
Meanwhile Pak assigns O to investigate the murder of a North Korean diplomat's wife in Pakistan. However, he is warned not to solve the case, but to only gather known facts about the victim. Bristling over the limitation, O tries to solve the homicide, which only leads to more trouble for the dedicated inspector from other security agencies for his clues lead to the top secret special weapons program.
The third Inspector O investigation (see CORPSE IN THE KORYO and HIDDEN MOON) is once again a great tale more so because of a the deep look into North Korea. O is excellent as he knows other agencies are spying on him to insure he learns very little as the need to know is always restricted. The whodunit and the Israeli espionage caper are both well written to showcase Inspector O’s skills and the paranoia of a regime that sees everyone even loyal citizens as the enemy.
Harriet Klausner
Humpty Dumpty in Oakland-Philip K. Dick
Humpty Dumpty in Oakland
Philip K. Dick
Tor, Oct 2008, $14.95
ISBN: 0765316919
In 1950s California bone tired as he still recovers from a heart attack garage owner Jim Fergesson plans to retire. Meanwhile one of his customers used car salesman cynical Al Miller learns that Jim is investing his retirement fund in a shaky real estate deal that in all probability will wipe the elderly man out.
Miller decides to help his friend by getting Jim not to invest in a loser. He obtains a job with the party he believes is conning Jim. However even Miller who believes almost everyone is a low life shark out to get you is stunned with what he finds while working undercover. He has landed in the middle of a colossal fraud that targets the ailing elderly.
As with the recently reprinted IN MILTON LUMKY TERRITORY, HUMPTY DUMPTY IN OAKLAND is a 1950s contemporary, but has the deep feel of a well written character driven historical that feels even more apropos today with the economy. The full vivid picture of those “Happy Days” is showcased as two Americas; a middle class enjoying the fruits of a growing economy while the other is a victim of prejudice unable to reach the lowest hanging fruit. Fans of Philip K. Dick will observe one of the author’s prime themes of an overwhelmed individual battling against the avaricious status quo power brokers.
Harriet Klausner
Philip K. Dick
Tor, Oct 2008, $14.95
ISBN: 0765316919
In 1950s California bone tired as he still recovers from a heart attack garage owner Jim Fergesson plans to retire. Meanwhile one of his customers used car salesman cynical Al Miller learns that Jim is investing his retirement fund in a shaky real estate deal that in all probability will wipe the elderly man out.
Miller decides to help his friend by getting Jim not to invest in a loser. He obtains a job with the party he believes is conning Jim. However even Miller who believes almost everyone is a low life shark out to get you is stunned with what he finds while working undercover. He has landed in the middle of a colossal fraud that targets the ailing elderly.
As with the recently reprinted IN MILTON LUMKY TERRITORY, HUMPTY DUMPTY IN OAKLAND is a 1950s contemporary, but has the deep feel of a well written character driven historical that feels even more apropos today with the economy. The full vivid picture of those “Happy Days” is showcased as two Americas; a middle class enjoying the fruits of a growing economy while the other is a victim of prejudice unable to reach the lowest hanging fruit. Fans of Philip K. Dick will observe one of the author’s prime themes of an overwhelmed individual battling against the avaricious status quo power brokers.
Harriet Klausner
The Phoenix Guards-Steven Brust
The Phoenix Guards
Steven Brust
Orb (Tor), Oct 2008, $14.95
ISBN: 0765319659
In the Dragaeran Empire, the swordsman Khaavren tries to become a member of the Imperial Guard whose mission is to protect the new Phoenix Emperor. On his trek to the capital, he meets three other somewhat wary travelers (Aerich, Tazendra and Pel) also seeking positions with the Imperial Guard. The foursome becomes friends vowing to be there for one another.
They become Imperial Guards, but soon know their pledge to one another is critical if they are to achieve and survive their mission to protect the royals. They soon uncover seditious plots against the Emperor and the Empire and Khaavren, which require them to make bold intelligent decisions to stay alive and keep Dragaera and their royal charges safe.
This is a reprint of an early 1990s tale that obviously pays homage to Alexandre Dumas. The saga occurs about a millennium before the time that Vlad Taltos roamed Dragaera. The adventures of the four musketeers are fun to follow though none come across as more than courageous, loyal, but somewhat superficially charming rogues who lack depth. Still THE PHOENIX GUARDS is an engaging swashbuckling sword and sorcery fantasy.
Harriet Klausner
Steven Brust
Orb (Tor), Oct 2008, $14.95
ISBN: 0765319659
In the Dragaeran Empire, the swordsman Khaavren tries to become a member of the Imperial Guard whose mission is to protect the new Phoenix Emperor. On his trek to the capital, he meets three other somewhat wary travelers (Aerich, Tazendra and Pel) also seeking positions with the Imperial Guard. The foursome becomes friends vowing to be there for one another.
They become Imperial Guards, but soon know their pledge to one another is critical if they are to achieve and survive their mission to protect the royals. They soon uncover seditious plots against the Emperor and the Empire and Khaavren, which require them to make bold intelligent decisions to stay alive and keep Dragaera and their royal charges safe.
This is a reprint of an early 1990s tale that obviously pays homage to Alexandre Dumas. The saga occurs about a millennium before the time that Vlad Taltos roamed Dragaera. The adventures of the four musketeers are fun to follow though none come across as more than courageous, loyal, but somewhat superficially charming rogues who lack depth. Still THE PHOENIX GUARDS is an engaging swashbuckling sword and sorcery fantasy.
Harriet Klausner
The Phoenix Guards-Steven Brust
The Phoenix Guards
Steven Brust
Orb (Tor), Oct 2008, $14.95
ISBN: 0765319659
In the Dragaeran Empire, the swordsman Khaavren tries to become a member of the Imperial Guard whose mission is to protect the new Phoenix Emperor. On his trek to the capital, he meets three other somewhat wary travelers (Aerich, Tazendra and Pel) also seeking positions with the Imperial Guard. The foursome becomes friends vowing to be there for one another.
They become Imperial Guards, but soon know their pledge to one another is critical if they are to achieve and survive their mission to protect the royals. They soon uncover seditious plots against the Emperor and the Empire and Khaavren, which require them to make bold intelligent decisions to stay alive and keep Dragaera and their royal charges safe.
This is a reprint of an early 1990s tale that obviously pays homage to Alexandre Dumas. The saga occurs about a millennium before the time that Vlad Taltos roamed Dragaera. The adventures of the four musketeers are fun to follow though none come across as more than courageous, loyal, but somewhat superficially charming rogues who lack depth. Still THE PHOENIX GUARDS is an engaging swashbuckling sword and sorcery fantasy.
Harriet Klausner
Steven Brust
Orb (Tor), Oct 2008, $14.95
ISBN: 0765319659
In the Dragaeran Empire, the swordsman Khaavren tries to become a member of the Imperial Guard whose mission is to protect the new Phoenix Emperor. On his trek to the capital, he meets three other somewhat wary travelers (Aerich, Tazendra and Pel) also seeking positions with the Imperial Guard. The foursome becomes friends vowing to be there for one another.
They become Imperial Guards, but soon know their pledge to one another is critical if they are to achieve and survive their mission to protect the royals. They soon uncover seditious plots against the Emperor and the Empire and Khaavren, which require them to make bold intelligent decisions to stay alive and keep Dragaera and their royal charges safe.
This is a reprint of an early 1990s tale that obviously pays homage to Alexandre Dumas. The saga occurs about a millennium before the time that Vlad Taltos roamed Dragaera. The adventures of the four musketeers are fun to follow though none come across as more than courageous, loyal, but somewhat superficially charming rogues who lack depth. Still THE PHOENIX GUARDS is an engaging swashbuckling sword and sorcery fantasy.
Harriet Klausner
Sinner-Ted Dekker
Sinner
Ted Dekker
Thomas Nelson, Sep 2008, $24.95
ISBN: 97815955540089
In 2034 in most of the world, tolerance is the byword in regard to religion. It is frowned up to discuss sectarianism, ethno slurs, or public preaching. Billy Rediger, the product of the failed Project Showdown, is a lawyer who has never forgotten that what he wrote in The Books of History is made flesh in the real world.
Marsuvees Black is the personification of evil still out in the world causing trouble. He is behind the lynching and race riots that are polarizing America. Billy connects with Darcy Lange who also let evil into her life when she abetted Billy in writing that infamous tome. They discover Billy can hear the thoughts of everyone as long as he looks into their eyes and her voice can compel people to do what she asks. When a cabal of Washington powerbrokers brings them out from the cold, they agree to make the undecided power brokers pass a constitutional amendment that would make racial bigotry and religious freedom crimes. The amendment passes but in Paradise, Colorado Johnny Drake who fought against evil and won refuses to deny his religious beliefs.
Ted Dekker has written a fabulous supernatural thriller that brings to a close his terrific Paradise trilogy (see SHOWDOWN and SAINT). There is a lot of symbolism in this saga. Black can be considered Lucifer and Johnny is John the Baptist risking his life for his belief. There is plenty of action as the future United States is a place of no freedom as the Bill of Rights has been burned at the stakes. Readers will enjoy SINNER as it is a crime to openly worship God.
Harriet Klausner
Ted Dekker
Thomas Nelson, Sep 2008, $24.95
ISBN: 97815955540089
In 2034 in most of the world, tolerance is the byword in regard to religion. It is frowned up to discuss sectarianism, ethno slurs, or public preaching. Billy Rediger, the product of the failed Project Showdown, is a lawyer who has never forgotten that what he wrote in The Books of History is made flesh in the real world.
Marsuvees Black is the personification of evil still out in the world causing trouble. He is behind the lynching and race riots that are polarizing America. Billy connects with Darcy Lange who also let evil into her life when she abetted Billy in writing that infamous tome. They discover Billy can hear the thoughts of everyone as long as he looks into their eyes and her voice can compel people to do what she asks. When a cabal of Washington powerbrokers brings them out from the cold, they agree to make the undecided power brokers pass a constitutional amendment that would make racial bigotry and religious freedom crimes. The amendment passes but in Paradise, Colorado Johnny Drake who fought against evil and won refuses to deny his religious beliefs.
Ted Dekker has written a fabulous supernatural thriller that brings to a close his terrific Paradise trilogy (see SHOWDOWN and SAINT). There is a lot of symbolism in this saga. Black can be considered Lucifer and Johnny is John the Baptist risking his life for his belief. There is plenty of action as the future United States is a place of no freedom as the Bill of Rights has been burned at the stakes. Readers will enjoy SINNER as it is a crime to openly worship God.
Harriet Klausner
Cowboy for Keeps-Brenda Mott
Cowboy for Keeps
Brenda Mott
Harlequin SuperRomance, Nov 2008, $5.50
ISBN: 9780373715268
In Colorado, rancher Reno Blackwell is concerned when rustlers try to steal her wild Mustang herd. She wants her horses safe so she turns to her former lover Cade Lantana, who has just come home after years away, for help.
Cade wants to say no because he remains haunted by the incident that had him run away from her love and his home. Although exonerated afterward by Internal Affairs, while on duty as a local police officer, he killed her stepfather. When Cade sees Reno he knows he still loves her; she feels the same way. He wants a second chance; she does not feel the same way. She remains livid that he dumped her when she needed him most while he knows he was unable to help himself get past the trauma caused by killing his lover’s stepdad let alone be there for his beloved.
The key to this wonderful ranch romance is the hurt and trauma neither of the lead couple let go of from that fateful day when Reno saw “the man who had stolen her heart. Then killed her father”. Neither has moved on, but now Cade sees a chance to make amends while Reno remains furious with him for deserting her when she most needed him. Contemporary romance readers will appreciate Brenda Mott’s well written tale of a tragic incident in their past still threatens to keep this couple apart.
Harriet Klausner
Brenda Mott
Harlequin SuperRomance, Nov 2008, $5.50
ISBN: 9780373715268
In Colorado, rancher Reno Blackwell is concerned when rustlers try to steal her wild Mustang herd. She wants her horses safe so she turns to her former lover Cade Lantana, who has just come home after years away, for help.
Cade wants to say no because he remains haunted by the incident that had him run away from her love and his home. Although exonerated afterward by Internal Affairs, while on duty as a local police officer, he killed her stepfather. When Cade sees Reno he knows he still loves her; she feels the same way. He wants a second chance; she does not feel the same way. She remains livid that he dumped her when she needed him most while he knows he was unable to help himself get past the trauma caused by killing his lover’s stepdad let alone be there for his beloved.
The key to this wonderful ranch romance is the hurt and trauma neither of the lead couple let go of from that fateful day when Reno saw “the man who had stolen her heart. Then killed her father”. Neither has moved on, but now Cade sees a chance to make amends while Reno remains furious with him for deserting her when she most needed him. Contemporary romance readers will appreciate Brenda Mott’s well written tale of a tragic incident in their past still threatens to keep this couple apart.
Harriet Klausner
Second-Chance Family-Karina Bliss
Second-Chance Family
Karina Bliss
Harlequin SuperRomance, Nov 2008, $5.50
ISBN: 9780373715244
In New Zealand following his divorce from Roz Valentine, Jack Galloway assumed he would never remarry or sire children. Instead he buries himself in his work. That changes when his brother and sister-in-law die in a car accident while on vacation in New Caledonia, leaving behind three young children.
Jack has no time to grieve, but is stunned to learn that Roz e and he were both named as guardians. She quickly thinks they have a second chance together coming from the tragedy as they raise the three kids; he wants that too but knows his heart could not take a failure again. Both know the kids come first.
This second chance at love tale works on several levels, but mostly because the readers will feel the grief of the three children. Thus the characters make for a great story as neither Roz or Jack want to be guardians and worse co-guardians, but the kids hook them as each mourns in different ways. Jack’s client Hiro sums up the novel when he tells Jack to go home because at times like this one needs to be with loving family.
Harriet Klausner
Karina Bliss
Harlequin SuperRomance, Nov 2008, $5.50
ISBN: 9780373715244
In New Zealand following his divorce from Roz Valentine, Jack Galloway assumed he would never remarry or sire children. Instead he buries himself in his work. That changes when his brother and sister-in-law die in a car accident while on vacation in New Caledonia, leaving behind three young children.
Jack has no time to grieve, but is stunned to learn that Roz e and he were both named as guardians. She quickly thinks they have a second chance together coming from the tragedy as they raise the three kids; he wants that too but knows his heart could not take a failure again. Both know the kids come first.
This second chance at love tale works on several levels, but mostly because the readers will feel the grief of the three children. Thus the characters make for a great story as neither Roz or Jack want to be guardians and worse co-guardians, but the kids hook them as each mourns in different ways. Jack’s client Hiro sums up the novel when he tells Jack to go home because at times like this one needs to be with loving family.
Harriet Klausner
Christmas in Key West-Cynthia Thomason
Christmas in Key West
Cynthia Thomason
Harlequin SuperRomance, Nov 2008, $5.50
ISBN: 9780373715282
Only for her father would Abby Vernay return home to Key West after thirteen years away. Home reminds her of Reese Burkett who broke her heart on graduation day when he took her virginity and left the next day for the military.
Reese is home as a police captain so Abby knows they will meet since her father is in jail. As they become reacquainted, Reese wants more while Abby pushes for less. He soon realizes his leaving town has hurt her so now in love he must persuade her to take a chance on him; he will not let her down again ever.
This is a fun second chance at love Christmas tale. The strong eccentric secondary cast starting with her father brings Key West to life. Abby is terrific as she refuses to give the man she has loved since he was a teen another shot at her heart because she knows the damage if he leaves. Reese realizes he has a hike as long as the Keys to overcome as he was ignorant to how much he hurt her so he starts off losing even more ground. Cynthia Thomason writes a warm CHRISTMAS IN KEY WEST.
Harriet Klausner
Cynthia Thomason
Harlequin SuperRomance, Nov 2008, $5.50
ISBN: 9780373715282
Only for her father would Abby Vernay return home to Key West after thirteen years away. Home reminds her of Reese Burkett who broke her heart on graduation day when he took her virginity and left the next day for the military.
Reese is home as a police captain so Abby knows they will meet since her father is in jail. As they become reacquainted, Reese wants more while Abby pushes for less. He soon realizes his leaving town has hurt her so now in love he must persuade her to take a chance on him; he will not let her down again ever.
This is a fun second chance at love Christmas tale. The strong eccentric secondary cast starting with her father brings Key West to life. Abby is terrific as she refuses to give the man she has loved since he was a teen another shot at her heart because she knows the damage if he leaves. Reese realizes he has a hike as long as the Keys to overcome as he was ignorant to how much he hurt her so he starts off losing even more ground. Cynthia Thomason writes a warm CHRISTMAS IN KEY WEST.
Harriet Klausner
Forbidden Fruit-Eden Bradley
Forbidden Fruit
Eden Bradley
Delta (Dell), Oct 28 2008, $13.00
ISBN: 0553385119
San Francisco State University Professor Mia Rose Curry teaches a class on alternative sexuality that allows her to fantasize without doing as she trusts no one. Her class is extremely popular as students enjoy learning about fetishes, bondage, and voyeurism, oh my. Although several students have come on to her, Mia knows better than to mix with a pupil; instead she conceals her desires from everyone behind an academic façade.
However, this term she has a problem when hunk Jagger James enters her classroom. From the moment she sees the Golden One she wants him, but tries to pretend indifference. Jagger knows she is his food fetish and plans to dine on his teacher just like he demands she feast on his banquet.
This is an entertaining erotic romance starring a professor and the student who makes her deepest hottest fantasies come to life. Though their pairing seems on the surface wrong (even Mia Rose knows that) due to the nature of their academic relationship, Eden Bradley makes it seem right. Sub-genre fans will relish dining on this FORBIDDEN FRUIT as Jagger teaches Mia Rose “ain’t nothing like the real thing” (Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell) when love is involved.
Harriet Klausner
Eden Bradley
Delta (Dell), Oct 28 2008, $13.00
ISBN: 0553385119
San Francisco State University Professor Mia Rose Curry teaches a class on alternative sexuality that allows her to fantasize without doing as she trusts no one. Her class is extremely popular as students enjoy learning about fetishes, bondage, and voyeurism, oh my. Although several students have come on to her, Mia knows better than to mix with a pupil; instead she conceals her desires from everyone behind an academic façade.
However, this term she has a problem when hunk Jagger James enters her classroom. From the moment she sees the Golden One she wants him, but tries to pretend indifference. Jagger knows she is his food fetish and plans to dine on his teacher just like he demands she feast on his banquet.
This is an entertaining erotic romance starring a professor and the student who makes her deepest hottest fantasies come to life. Though their pairing seems on the surface wrong (even Mia Rose knows that) due to the nature of their academic relationship, Eden Bradley makes it seem right. Sub-genre fans will relish dining on this FORBIDDEN FRUIT as Jagger teaches Mia Rose “ain’t nothing like the real thing” (Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell) when love is involved.
Harriet Klausner
One Perfect Day-Lauraine Snelling
One Perfect Day
Lauraine Snelling
Faithwords, Nov 2008, $13.99
ISBN: 0446582107
Nora wants the perfect Christmas for her family. She looks forward along with her twins Charlie and Christi to the return of her spouse and their father from Germany. However the Riverbend police arrive at Nora’s home to inform her a tragedy occurs when Charlie is in a car accident and is in the hospital’s ICU only kept alive by a ventilator. His dad, delayed in Germany, rushes home to try to be at the side of his son.
Jenna is a single mother praying for a miracle for her daughter, Heather. If the child fails to get a heart transplant by Christmas she will be dead. A miracle occurs when a heart is found for Heather. Though Jenna rejoices, Nora mourns.
This is a poignant emotional tale of two families connected by the organ transplant. Both families come across as real especially their reactions to what is going on. Besides making a strong plea for the organ donation program, ONE PERFECT DAY points out that for each life saved, someone else mourns the loss of a life. Lauraine Snelling provides a deep inspirational novel.
Harriet Klausner
Lauraine Snelling
Faithwords, Nov 2008, $13.99
ISBN: 0446582107
Nora wants the perfect Christmas for her family. She looks forward along with her twins Charlie and Christi to the return of her spouse and their father from Germany. However the Riverbend police arrive at Nora’s home to inform her a tragedy occurs when Charlie is in a car accident and is in the hospital’s ICU only kept alive by a ventilator. His dad, delayed in Germany, rushes home to try to be at the side of his son.
Jenna is a single mother praying for a miracle for her daughter, Heather. If the child fails to get a heart transplant by Christmas she will be dead. A miracle occurs when a heart is found for Heather. Though Jenna rejoices, Nora mourns.
This is a poignant emotional tale of two families connected by the organ transplant. Both families come across as real especially their reactions to what is going on. Besides making a strong plea for the organ donation program, ONE PERFECT DAY points out that for each life saved, someone else mourns the loss of a life. Lauraine Snelling provides a deep inspirational novel.
Harriet Klausner
A Good Woman-Danielle Steel
A Good Woman
Danielle Steel
Delacorte Press, Oct 2008, $27.00
ISBN: 0385340265
The Worthington family is at the top of Fifth Ave and Newport society. The patriarch is an affluent banker; his wife is a leader of the upper crust; and their two children are highly regarded. Everything changes when the Titanic goes down in 1912 as the patriarch and the son die in the tragedy leaving behind nineteen years old Annabelle and her mom to grieve their loss.
A banking colleague of her late dad Josiah Millbank kindly offers marriage to Annabelle; she accepts. Two years later having never made love, Josiah informs his young wife that he has syphilis and demands a divorce because he wants to be with his male lover. Annabelle says no so Josiah files for a divorce on the grounds of adultery. Everyone assumes the kind banker is the victim leaving Annabelle a pariah. She goes to Paris to start over hoping to become a doctor based on her volunteer work at Ellis Island.
Annabelle makes the historical tale fun to read as her strength shines through even when her reputation is unfairly destroyed. The plight of women in high society just prior to WW I comes into deep focus by the way Annabelle’s peers react to first the Titanic tragedy, then her marriage, and finally the accusations. Fans will enjoy Danielle Steele’s fine early twentieth century saga of a woman who could quote Sinatra’s That’s Life because Annabelle knows that “Some people get their kicks, Stompin' on a dream” but she also would sing “Each time I find myself, flat on my face, I pick myself up and get back in the race”.
Harriet Klausner
Danielle Steel
Delacorte Press, Oct 2008, $27.00
ISBN: 0385340265
The Worthington family is at the top of Fifth Ave and Newport society. The patriarch is an affluent banker; his wife is a leader of the upper crust; and their two children are highly regarded. Everything changes when the Titanic goes down in 1912 as the patriarch and the son die in the tragedy leaving behind nineteen years old Annabelle and her mom to grieve their loss.
A banking colleague of her late dad Josiah Millbank kindly offers marriage to Annabelle; she accepts. Two years later having never made love, Josiah informs his young wife that he has syphilis and demands a divorce because he wants to be with his male lover. Annabelle says no so Josiah files for a divorce on the grounds of adultery. Everyone assumes the kind banker is the victim leaving Annabelle a pariah. She goes to Paris to start over hoping to become a doctor based on her volunteer work at Ellis Island.
Annabelle makes the historical tale fun to read as her strength shines through even when her reputation is unfairly destroyed. The plight of women in high society just prior to WW I comes into deep focus by the way Annabelle’s peers react to first the Titanic tragedy, then her marriage, and finally the accusations. Fans will enjoy Danielle Steele’s fine early twentieth century saga of a woman who could quote Sinatra’s That’s Life because Annabelle knows that “Some people get their kicks, Stompin' on a dream” but she also would sing “Each time I find myself, flat on my face, I pick myself up and get back in the race”.
Harriet Klausner
Mr. Monk Is Miserable-Lee Goldberg
Mr. Monk Is Miserable
Lee Goldberg
Obsidian, Dec 2008, $21.95
ISBN: 0451225155
Mr. Monk stalks his psychiatrist by following him to Germany so they can continue their sessions; he also solves homicide cases that almost killed him and his assistant Natalie. Both Natalie and his shrink are unhappy with Monk for ruining their vacations. Using the guilt card, Natalie blackmails Monk into spending a few days in France on a real vacation. On the plane from Germany, a passenger dies; Monk determines who the killer is in a few minutes.
In France, Monk feels traumatized as he is out of his environment, but Natalie has no sympathy as she plans to enjoy her vacation. Monk decides to visit the famous Paris sewerage system because he wants to pay homage to the cleanliness of the city. In the catacombs below the streets, he finds a tomb filled with old skulls except one that looks quite recent. DNA testing proves this is San Francisco con artist Nathan Chalmers assumed dead for a decade. In a darkened restaurant a woman tells Monk she knows something about the deceased, but before she can explain further she is killed. The compulsive Monk is cleaning the Paris streets while putting the puzzle pieces in order.
No one does novelizations of TV shows better than Lee Goldberg consistently does. The author is able to catch the essence of Monk’s personality while also providing an entertaining whodunit. Readers see a different side of Paris with its underground catacombs and sewers (unless you happen to be the Honeymooners’ Ed Norton) where people live. Natalie will have to wait for her needed foreign vacation while series fans will relish following the idiosyncrasies of the hero as he cleans the streets of Paris.
Harriet Klausner
Lee Goldberg
Obsidian, Dec 2008, $21.95
ISBN: 0451225155
Mr. Monk stalks his psychiatrist by following him to Germany so they can continue their sessions; he also solves homicide cases that almost killed him and his assistant Natalie. Both Natalie and his shrink are unhappy with Monk for ruining their vacations. Using the guilt card, Natalie blackmails Monk into spending a few days in France on a real vacation. On the plane from Germany, a passenger dies; Monk determines who the killer is in a few minutes.
In France, Monk feels traumatized as he is out of his environment, but Natalie has no sympathy as she plans to enjoy her vacation. Monk decides to visit the famous Paris sewerage system because he wants to pay homage to the cleanliness of the city. In the catacombs below the streets, he finds a tomb filled with old skulls except one that looks quite recent. DNA testing proves this is San Francisco con artist Nathan Chalmers assumed dead for a decade. In a darkened restaurant a woman tells Monk she knows something about the deceased, but before she can explain further she is killed. The compulsive Monk is cleaning the Paris streets while putting the puzzle pieces in order.
No one does novelizations of TV shows better than Lee Goldberg consistently does. The author is able to catch the essence of Monk’s personality while also providing an entertaining whodunit. Readers see a different side of Paris with its underground catacombs and sewers (unless you happen to be the Honeymooners’ Ed Norton) where people live. Natalie will have to wait for her needed foreign vacation while series fans will relish following the idiosyncrasies of the hero as he cleans the streets of Paris.
Harriet Klausner
My Immortal Promise-Jen Holling
My Immortal Promise
Jen Holling
Pocket, Nov 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 1416525866
Her abusive husband is killing Hannah O’Shea. Her life is saved by a spirit who changes her from human into a "blood witch" immortal healer. However to stay alive Hannah must have human blood.
Eight decades later a desperate widower Drake MacKay begs Hannah to use her healing skill to save the life of a relative. He offers her his life in exchange with one stipulation; give him time to kill his enemy, Luthias, a baobhan sith like the local witch Hannah. Instead the lonely depressed Hannah frees him from his blood debt. When Drake learns of a threat from the villagers to kill Hannah, he abducts her to take her to safety stunned that she told the locals how to kill her. He is willing to die to keep her safe, but soon learns his family is threatened by a psychopathic Luthias. As they go to keep his blood safe, Hannah finds a reason to live; her love for Drake, who reciprocates her deep feelings.
This engaging paranormal romance stars two flawed protagonists struggling with a blood debt, a nasty villain, and love. Hannah makes the tale with her death wish making her the opposite of her peer Luthias whose death wish is to dine on human blood until his victim is dead. Jen Holling is at her best as readers will be hooked from the opening encounter as fans and Drake will wonder whether a baobhan sith blood sucker can truly be in love.
Harriet Klausner
Jen Holling
Pocket, Nov 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 1416525866
Her abusive husband is killing Hannah O’Shea. Her life is saved by a spirit who changes her from human into a "blood witch" immortal healer. However to stay alive Hannah must have human blood.
Eight decades later a desperate widower Drake MacKay begs Hannah to use her healing skill to save the life of a relative. He offers her his life in exchange with one stipulation; give him time to kill his enemy, Luthias, a baobhan sith like the local witch Hannah. Instead the lonely depressed Hannah frees him from his blood debt. When Drake learns of a threat from the villagers to kill Hannah, he abducts her to take her to safety stunned that she told the locals how to kill her. He is willing to die to keep her safe, but soon learns his family is threatened by a psychopathic Luthias. As they go to keep his blood safe, Hannah finds a reason to live; her love for Drake, who reciprocates her deep feelings.
This engaging paranormal romance stars two flawed protagonists struggling with a blood debt, a nasty villain, and love. Hannah makes the tale with her death wish making her the opposite of her peer Luthias whose death wish is to dine on human blood until his victim is dead. Jen Holling is at her best as readers will be hooked from the opening encounter as fans and Drake will wonder whether a baobhan sith blood sucker can truly be in love.
Harriet Klausner
Silver Bells-Fern Michaels, JoAnn Ross, Mary Burton, and Judy Duarte
Silver Bells
Fern Michaels, JoAnn Ross, Mary Burton, and Judy Duarte
Zebra, Nov 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 1420103636
“Silver Bells” by Fern Michaels. Although a star, Hollywood has not been fun for Amy Lee, who wants to leave the glitter behind her and just go home. This Christmas she returns to Apple Valley, Pennsylvania where her high-school boyfriend Hank Anders greets her in a way that makes her want to stay forever in his arms.
“Dear Santa…” by JoAnn Ross. Mystery writer author Holly Berry has another reason to hate the holidays; a blizzard has left her stranded in Santa’s Village, Washington at the lodge owned by Gabriel O’Halloran. He and his young matchmaking daughter give her a Christmas that makes her wish for more of their loving magic.
“Christmas Past” by Mary Burton. The letter she receives provides hints to the identity of a killer. Having had a violent abusive husband, photographer Nicole Piper knows she cannot pursue this alone so she turns to homicide detective David Ayden for help. The widow and the widower face danger to their lives and to their hearts as both find a second chance at love if they survive their sleuthing ordeal.
“A Mulberry Park Christmas” by Judy Duarte. Sugar Plum Lane residents know how to enliven the community for the Christmas season. However, this year Alyssa Ridgeway still reels from an ugly breakup and is not in the holiday mood until she runs into her first sweetheart, James MacGregor, who reminds her of the Christmas kiss past, present and future.
These four heartwarming holiday romances each contain strong lead characters, a sense of the season, and entertaining story lines.
Harriet Klausner
Fern Michaels, JoAnn Ross, Mary Burton, and Judy Duarte
Zebra, Nov 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 1420103636
“Silver Bells” by Fern Michaels. Although a star, Hollywood has not been fun for Amy Lee, who wants to leave the glitter behind her and just go home. This Christmas she returns to Apple Valley, Pennsylvania where her high-school boyfriend Hank Anders greets her in a way that makes her want to stay forever in his arms.
“Dear Santa…” by JoAnn Ross. Mystery writer author Holly Berry has another reason to hate the holidays; a blizzard has left her stranded in Santa’s Village, Washington at the lodge owned by Gabriel O’Halloran. He and his young matchmaking daughter give her a Christmas that makes her wish for more of their loving magic.
“Christmas Past” by Mary Burton. The letter she receives provides hints to the identity of a killer. Having had a violent abusive husband, photographer Nicole Piper knows she cannot pursue this alone so she turns to homicide detective David Ayden for help. The widow and the widower face danger to their lives and to their hearts as both find a second chance at love if they survive their sleuthing ordeal.
“A Mulberry Park Christmas” by Judy Duarte. Sugar Plum Lane residents know how to enliven the community for the Christmas season. However, this year Alyssa Ridgeway still reels from an ugly breakup and is not in the holiday mood until she runs into her first sweetheart, James MacGregor, who reminds her of the Christmas kiss past, present and future.
These four heartwarming holiday romances each contain strong lead characters, a sense of the season, and entertaining story lines.
Harriet Klausner
Snowy Night With a Stranger-Jane Feather, Sabrina Jeffries and Julia London
Snowy Night With a Stranger
Jane Feather, Sabrina Jeffries and Julia London
Pocket, Nov 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 1416578226
"Holiday Gamble” by Jane Feather. The blizzard forces Lord Ned Vasey to seek shelter at the home of Lord Roger Selby. Ned meets Selby's ward, Georgina, who he believes is hiding something that he plans to uncover.
“When Sparks Fly" by Sabrina Jeffries. The coach accident leaves Lady Eleanor Bancroft and her three young charges with no options except to beg for hospitality from the cranky hermit and are at the mercy of Martin “Black Baron” Thorncliffe. She is not sure he will let them stay. He would prefer to refuse them, but even he cannot. Neither of the adults is prepared for the attraction between them.
"A Snowy Night With a Highlander" by Julia London. Lady Fiona Haines searches for her missing Laird Duncan Buchanan, with an injured arm and a patch over his eye, offers his help. Together they seek her sibling while an attraction between them ignites; However Duncan fears what will happen to their just starting relationship when she learns who he is.
SNOWY NIGHT WITH A STRANGER contains three warm (in spite of the weather) Regency holiday romances that showcase top talent. Fans will enjoy this fine historical collection.
Harriet Klausner
Jane Feather, Sabrina Jeffries and Julia London
Pocket, Nov 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 1416578226
"Holiday Gamble” by Jane Feather. The blizzard forces Lord Ned Vasey to seek shelter at the home of Lord Roger Selby. Ned meets Selby's ward, Georgina, who he believes is hiding something that he plans to uncover.
“When Sparks Fly" by Sabrina Jeffries. The coach accident leaves Lady Eleanor Bancroft and her three young charges with no options except to beg for hospitality from the cranky hermit and are at the mercy of Martin “Black Baron” Thorncliffe. She is not sure he will let them stay. He would prefer to refuse them, but even he cannot. Neither of the adults is prepared for the attraction between them.
"A Snowy Night With a Highlander" by Julia London. Lady Fiona Haines searches for her missing Laird Duncan Buchanan, with an injured arm and a patch over his eye, offers his help. Together they seek her sibling while an attraction between them ignites; However Duncan fears what will happen to their just starting relationship when she learns who he is.
SNOWY NIGHT WITH A STRANGER contains three warm (in spite of the weather) Regency holiday romances that showcase top talent. Fans will enjoy this fine historical collection.
Harriet Klausner
Dark Magic-Cheyenne McCray
Dark Magic
Cheyenne McCray
St. Martin's, Nov 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 0312949596
Although accepted as an equal by the D’Anu witches and treated as a sister, Cassia has hidden her royal Elvin blood from everyone. However, her time of hiding is over as she must return to her elf realm as the daughter of the Great Guardian must become a Guardian. She understands her duty, but feels strongly she must help her friends in their upcoming battle against the new “God” warlock Darkwolf and knows she will miss the human MacGregor with all her heart.
San Francisco Police Department chief of Paranormal Special Forces Jake Macgregor is a bit taken aback that Cassia, whom he is attracted to, is not human, but he does not care though he knows anything between them is short lived. If his dice wins against the overwhelming odds, she must leave to fulfill her regal role as a Guardian; if they lose he does not want to think of the hell they will all be in. Still Darkwolf comes before their hearts.
This is excellent on two levels. Besides a fabulous finish to a great urban fantasy that sub-genre fans will relish as one of the best series over the past few years; the romance is the one, readers have been waiting to see how it plays out since almost the beginning. Master magician Cheyenne McCray brings it all together in a superb ending to her stupendous saga.
Harriet Klausner
Cheyenne McCray
St. Martin's, Nov 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 0312949596
Although accepted as an equal by the D’Anu witches and treated as a sister, Cassia has hidden her royal Elvin blood from everyone. However, her time of hiding is over as she must return to her elf realm as the daughter of the Great Guardian must become a Guardian. She understands her duty, but feels strongly she must help her friends in their upcoming battle against the new “God” warlock Darkwolf and knows she will miss the human MacGregor with all her heart.
San Francisco Police Department chief of Paranormal Special Forces Jake Macgregor is a bit taken aback that Cassia, whom he is attracted to, is not human, but he does not care though he knows anything between them is short lived. If his dice wins against the overwhelming odds, she must leave to fulfill her regal role as a Guardian; if they lose he does not want to think of the hell they will all be in. Still Darkwolf comes before their hearts.
This is excellent on two levels. Besides a fabulous finish to a great urban fantasy that sub-genre fans will relish as one of the best series over the past few years; the romance is the one, readers have been waiting to see how it plays out since almost the beginning. Master magician Cheyenne McCray brings it all together in a superb ending to her stupendous saga.
Harriet Klausner
The Mane Attraction-Shelly Laurenston
The Mane Attraction
Shelly Laurenston
Kensington Brava, Nov 2008, $14.00
ISBN: 9780758220387
Following the wedding of her brother (see THE BEAST IN HIM), werewolf Sissy Mae Smith and lion shifter Mitch Shaw slept together. However, they agree the next morning their friendship is not worth risking due to an attraction.
When he is hurt by a bounty hunter, Sissy Mae takes him to her Tennessee pack to heal and keep safe; as no one messes with a Smith especially in Smithtown. However, as the two shapeshifters struggle to stay apart, his enemies come for him as they know who he is and her Pack males, showing some guts, begin to sniff them out from a distance. Mitch is an undercover cop ready to testify in court against his former associates who want him dead for his betrayal of their code and before he can send them up the river.
Shelly Laurenston’s latest Smith shapeshifter romantic fantasy stars kick butt Sissy Mae and the only known male besides perhaps her dad not afraid of her bite and bark; as it takes the heart of a lion to go one on one with her. Although readers will need a scorecard to keep track of who’s who in the extended Smith world (the family reunion would fill up Titan Stadium), fans will enjoy the MANE ATTRACTION, a battle between two superheavyweights in heated love.
Harriet Klausner
Shelly Laurenston
Kensington Brava, Nov 2008, $14.00
ISBN: 9780758220387
Following the wedding of her brother (see THE BEAST IN HIM), werewolf Sissy Mae Smith and lion shifter Mitch Shaw slept together. However, they agree the next morning their friendship is not worth risking due to an attraction.
When he is hurt by a bounty hunter, Sissy Mae takes him to her Tennessee pack to heal and keep safe; as no one messes with a Smith especially in Smithtown. However, as the two shapeshifters struggle to stay apart, his enemies come for him as they know who he is and her Pack males, showing some guts, begin to sniff them out from a distance. Mitch is an undercover cop ready to testify in court against his former associates who want him dead for his betrayal of their code and before he can send them up the river.
Shelly Laurenston’s latest Smith shapeshifter romantic fantasy stars kick butt Sissy Mae and the only known male besides perhaps her dad not afraid of her bite and bark; as it takes the heart of a lion to go one on one with her. Although readers will need a scorecard to keep track of who’s who in the extended Smith world (the family reunion would fill up Titan Stadium), fans will enjoy the MANE ATTRACTION, a battle between two superheavyweights in heated love.
Harriet Klausner
A Mermaid’s Kiss-Joey W. Hill
A Mermaid’s Kiss
Joey W. Hill
Berkley, Nov 2008, $15.00
ISBN: 9780425223802
Half-breed Anna knows her life will be short and loveless; her destiny to die alone. As the daughter of the legendary Ariel, she feels unwelcome in the human surface world and as an undesirable in the oceanic realm of her mom’s race, the mermaids.
After several millennia of war against The Dark Ones, Prime Legion Commander for the Goddess, Jonah the Angel is burned out, suffering from battle fatigue syndrome caused by sending so many of his friends to die in mortal combat. He no longer cares about victory or the cause, as he just wants to join his fallen comrades.
During a particularly brutal fight, the enemy severs Jonah’s wing. In pain, he crashes to the earth looking forward to his end as the Dark Ones pursue him to finish the job. Instead Anna finds him, rescues him, and heals him; and not just his wounded wing. Jonah finds a new reason to live and win as he has found love; Anna reciprocates as she knows the pain of loneliness is over as she has own angel.
Moving from vampires to mermaids and angels, Joey W. Hill provides another powerful romantic fantasy that will grip the audience from the opening sequence when Jonah fell from grace to the sea and never slows down as Anna risks her life to save her angel. Anna and Jonah make their respective species seem genuine while the Dark Ones are a bit over the top (but then again millenniums of getting your butt kicked will tend to do that), but no one will care as the eternal war has come to the Mer oceanic abode.
Harriet Klausner
Joey W. Hill
Berkley, Nov 2008, $15.00
ISBN: 9780425223802
Half-breed Anna knows her life will be short and loveless; her destiny to die alone. As the daughter of the legendary Ariel, she feels unwelcome in the human surface world and as an undesirable in the oceanic realm of her mom’s race, the mermaids.
After several millennia of war against The Dark Ones, Prime Legion Commander for the Goddess, Jonah the Angel is burned out, suffering from battle fatigue syndrome caused by sending so many of his friends to die in mortal combat. He no longer cares about victory or the cause, as he just wants to join his fallen comrades.
During a particularly brutal fight, the enemy severs Jonah’s wing. In pain, he crashes to the earth looking forward to his end as the Dark Ones pursue him to finish the job. Instead Anna finds him, rescues him, and heals him; and not just his wounded wing. Jonah finds a new reason to live and win as he has found love; Anna reciprocates as she knows the pain of loneliness is over as she has own angel.
Moving from vampires to mermaids and angels, Joey W. Hill provides another powerful romantic fantasy that will grip the audience from the opening sequence when Jonah fell from grace to the sea and never slows down as Anna risks her life to save her angel. Anna and Jonah make their respective species seem genuine while the Dark Ones are a bit over the top (but then again millenniums of getting your butt kicked will tend to do that), but no one will care as the eternal war has come to the Mer oceanic abode.
Harriet Klausner
Vampire Zero-David Wellington
Vampire Zero
David Wellington
Three Rivers, Oct 2008, $13.95
ISBN: 9780307381729
The second battle of Gettysburg (see 99 COFFINS) was won by the humans but at quite a cost. The victory came because the paranormal expert U.S. Marshal Jameson Arkeley gave his life to insure his side won. His apprentice police investigator and vampire fighter Laura Caxton fears the end is not in sight in site of finding the Civil War journal that tells her what happened and the sacrifice of her heroic mentor; she just does not know what comes next.
She is proven right as the worst case scenario comes alive. The world’s greatest authority on vampires Arkeley was bitten and is now an undead. He knows every move his former student knows because he taught her. Stunned and preferring to hide as she did following her first encounter (see 13 BULLETS), Caxton hates what she must do; she must kill her teacher before he becomes too powerful for anyone to stop, which she believes in her gut is already true.
This exciting bloody vampire tale is fast-paced, action-packed, and an incredible in your face (make that neck) twist that will fascinate and stun anyone who read the first two books. The hero (along with Caxton) of 13 BULLETS AND 99 COFFINS is now the most dangerous lethal villain of all, VAMPIRE ZERO. Newcomers may not fully grasp the monumental spin as Caxton hunts her former teacher, the world’s foremost authority on the vampire insurgency. Well written in that gruesome monster style, David Wellington provides a strong vampire thriller.
Harriet Klausner
David Wellington
Three Rivers, Oct 2008, $13.95
ISBN: 9780307381729
The second battle of Gettysburg (see 99 COFFINS) was won by the humans but at quite a cost. The victory came because the paranormal expert U.S. Marshal Jameson Arkeley gave his life to insure his side won. His apprentice police investigator and vampire fighter Laura Caxton fears the end is not in sight in site of finding the Civil War journal that tells her what happened and the sacrifice of her heroic mentor; she just does not know what comes next.
She is proven right as the worst case scenario comes alive. The world’s greatest authority on vampires Arkeley was bitten and is now an undead. He knows every move his former student knows because he taught her. Stunned and preferring to hide as she did following her first encounter (see 13 BULLETS), Caxton hates what she must do; she must kill her teacher before he becomes too powerful for anyone to stop, which she believes in her gut is already true.
This exciting bloody vampire tale is fast-paced, action-packed, and an incredible in your face (make that neck) twist that will fascinate and stun anyone who read the first two books. The hero (along with Caxton) of 13 BULLETS AND 99 COFFINS is now the most dangerous lethal villain of all, VAMPIRE ZERO. Newcomers may not fully grasp the monumental spin as Caxton hunts her former teacher, the world’s foremost authority on the vampire insurgency. Well written in that gruesome monster style, David Wellington provides a strong vampire thriller.
Harriet Klausner
New Tricks-John Levitt
New Tricks
John Levitt
Ace, Nov 25 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 9780441016563
In San Francisco Mason is a magical practitioner who no longer works for Victor as an enforcer keeping mage users from abusing their skills. The work is too dangerous and he wants to spend more time learning and performing his music. On Halloween, Victor and Mason search for a friend who failed to meet them as previously arranged. When they find Sarah, she is catatonic as if someone tried to possess her, but failed. The same crisis happened in Portland so Victor sends for enforcers to search for those behind the killings the Sarah incident won’t be repeated
Rolando and his sister Josephine come to San Francisco; they tell Victor and Mason that they believe Byron, a dark mage, was the killer. He lelft Portland and the homicides stopped there immediately; he came to San Francisco and the murders started there. Mason breaks into Byron’s home; when he is caught the accused does not act in any way like a killer. Mason meets Montague who insists he has a technique to identify the culprit. However when Mason arrives at Montague’s home, he finds him dead, but also begins to realize who the killer is. When the murders abruptly cease, everyone sighs with relief assuming it is over except Mason who believes the killer lives and is planning the next homicide.
Mason is a courageous caring soul who combines moxie, magic and vulnerability and that endears him to readers. His companion, an Ifirt is a magical creature who looks like a dog. He plays a key role keeping Mason alive and helps him try to ferret out the killer. In some ways the charming Lou steals the show in this humorous serial killer urban fantasy. Jon Levitt is a welcome addition to the urban fantasy genre.
Harriet Klausner
John Levitt
Ace, Nov 25 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 9780441016563
In San Francisco Mason is a magical practitioner who no longer works for Victor as an enforcer keeping mage users from abusing their skills. The work is too dangerous and he wants to spend more time learning and performing his music. On Halloween, Victor and Mason search for a friend who failed to meet them as previously arranged. When they find Sarah, she is catatonic as if someone tried to possess her, but failed. The same crisis happened in Portland so Victor sends for enforcers to search for those behind the killings the Sarah incident won’t be repeated
Rolando and his sister Josephine come to San Francisco; they tell Victor and Mason that they believe Byron, a dark mage, was the killer. He lelft Portland and the homicides stopped there immediately; he came to San Francisco and the murders started there. Mason breaks into Byron’s home; when he is caught the accused does not act in any way like a killer. Mason meets Montague who insists he has a technique to identify the culprit. However when Mason arrives at Montague’s home, he finds him dead, but also begins to realize who the killer is. When the murders abruptly cease, everyone sighs with relief assuming it is over except Mason who believes the killer lives and is planning the next homicide.
Mason is a courageous caring soul who combines moxie, magic and vulnerability and that endears him to readers. His companion, an Ifirt is a magical creature who looks like a dog. He plays a key role keeping Mason alive and helps him try to ferret out the killer. In some ways the charming Lou steals the show in this humorous serial killer urban fantasy. Jon Levitt is a welcome addition to the urban fantasy genre.
Harriet Klausner
The Cowboy and the Angel-Marin Thomas
The Cowboy and the Angel
Marin Thomas
Harlequin American Romance, Nov 2008, $4.99
ISBN: 9780373752409
In Detroit dedicated, some would say obsessed, social worker Renee Sweenee will do anything include standing in front of a wrecking crane and ball to prevent the destruction of the abandoned 1892 Screw and Bolt Factory Warehouse where six kids have taken shelter. Tulsa based Duke Dalton cannot believe what has happened to his simple deal.
He realizes bad PR could rupture his plan. He decides to team up with the lioness protecting someone else’s runaway cubs by helping Renee find homes for all of the children. As they work together, Renee and Duke fall in love, but her distrust of relationships due to a bad incident leaves her ready to bolt. Duke knows he has his work cut out to convince his beloved they belong together.
The romance between the COWBOY AND THE ANGEL is cleverly done to serve as a backdrop in many ways to saving the children as Marin Thomas makes each of her teens and preadolescents seem fully developed with genuine flaws and fears. Thus besides a strong contemporary romance, the audience sees a powerful look at how complex and difficult social work can be. This is a great tale and perhaps Ms. Thomas can provide a futuristic anthology focusing on these children as adults (instead of where are they now – where will they be).
Harriet Klausner
Marin Thomas
Harlequin American Romance, Nov 2008, $4.99
ISBN: 9780373752409
In Detroit dedicated, some would say obsessed, social worker Renee Sweenee will do anything include standing in front of a wrecking crane and ball to prevent the destruction of the abandoned 1892 Screw and Bolt Factory Warehouse where six kids have taken shelter. Tulsa based Duke Dalton cannot believe what has happened to his simple deal.
He realizes bad PR could rupture his plan. He decides to team up with the lioness protecting someone else’s runaway cubs by helping Renee find homes for all of the children. As they work together, Renee and Duke fall in love, but her distrust of relationships due to a bad incident leaves her ready to bolt. Duke knows he has his work cut out to convince his beloved they belong together.
The romance between the COWBOY AND THE ANGEL is cleverly done to serve as a backdrop in many ways to saving the children as Marin Thomas makes each of her teens and preadolescents seem fully developed with genuine flaws and fears. Thus besides a strong contemporary romance, the audience sees a powerful look at how complex and difficult social work can be. This is a great tale and perhaps Ms. Thomas can provide a futuristic anthology focusing on these children as adults (instead of where are they now – where will they be).
Harriet Klausner
The Christmas Cowboy-Judy Christenberry
The Christmas Cowboy
Judy Christenberry
Harlequin American Romance, Nov 2008, $4.99
ISBN: 9780373752386
On the family owned Lazy l Ranch in Colorado, Hank Ledbetter is the last remaining single as the spread has had three weddings in under a year. His grandfather and his brother (see TRUST A COWBOY) are on their respective honeymoons and his sister Jess started the marriage go round last summer (see RUNAWAY COWBOY). He vows never him.
Although the deal to have guests arrive was to start next month, Hank angrily agrees to teach affluent New York City slicker Andrea Jacobs how to ride a horse after his family signed a contract with the guest. As the teacher and student become acquainted they begin to fall in love. He no longer wants to run off to nearby Steamboat Springs to see the ladies. However, she has a secret and he has doubts, making it seem the only bells for Christmas not ringing will be wedding bells.
The latest Lazy L Ranch romance is an engaging contemporary that starts off on the wrong hoof (make that foot) when Hank assumes Andrea is a spoiled rich girl used to getting her way so he behaves atrociously towards the guest. Andrea’s lack of confidence leads to her accepting the belief she deserves his scorn and readers cringing. Although Andrea waits too long to show backbone, fans will enjoy this fun Colorado ranch romance as the cowboy has a lot of making up to do one kiss at a time.
Harriet Klausner
Judy Christenberry
Harlequin American Romance, Nov 2008, $4.99
ISBN: 9780373752386
On the family owned Lazy l Ranch in Colorado, Hank Ledbetter is the last remaining single as the spread has had three weddings in under a year. His grandfather and his brother (see TRUST A COWBOY) are on their respective honeymoons and his sister Jess started the marriage go round last summer (see RUNAWAY COWBOY). He vows never him.
Although the deal to have guests arrive was to start next month, Hank angrily agrees to teach affluent New York City slicker Andrea Jacobs how to ride a horse after his family signed a contract with the guest. As the teacher and student become acquainted they begin to fall in love. He no longer wants to run off to nearby Steamboat Springs to see the ladies. However, she has a secret and he has doubts, making it seem the only bells for Christmas not ringing will be wedding bells.
The latest Lazy L Ranch romance is an engaging contemporary that starts off on the wrong hoof (make that foot) when Hank assumes Andrea is a spoiled rich girl used to getting her way so he behaves atrociously towards the guest. Andrea’s lack of confidence leads to her accepting the belief she deserves his scorn and readers cringing. Although Andrea waits too long to show backbone, fans will enjoy this fun Colorado ranch romance as the cowboy has a lot of making up to do one kiss at a time.
Harriet Klausner
Strip-Delta Dupree
Strip
Delta Dupree
Kensington Aphrodisia, Nov 2008, $12.95
ISBN: 9780758227027
During the day Bryce Sullivan is a computer technician; at night he has obtained work as an erotic dancer at Killer Bods, a male strip joint owned by Rio Saunders. In fact Bryce is undercover stripping in order to obtain insider information for his sister, Rio’s business competitor in the take it off male hard bod community.
Although she is older, Rio and Bryce are attracted to one another and she even struts on stage with him when he suffers stage fright. Torn between his love for two male strip joint owners, Bryce must choose between his sister and his beloved even as he believes that he and Rio could never share anything permanently due to their age difference.
The concept is fascinating as a younger man doing a favor for his sister goes undercover in a strip joint owned by an older woman; only to have a heated attraction between them. The problem is Bryce is too immature for a sophisticate like Rio to accept his childish temperament even though he is able to draw the heated out of control sexual teen-like desires from her. Readers who relish the nano details of the sexual encounters and the striptease will want to follow Bryce and Rio as they mutually STRIP one another’s sensibility.
Harriet Klausner
Delta Dupree
Kensington Aphrodisia, Nov 2008, $12.95
ISBN: 9780758227027
During the day Bryce Sullivan is a computer technician; at night he has obtained work as an erotic dancer at Killer Bods, a male strip joint owned by Rio Saunders. In fact Bryce is undercover stripping in order to obtain insider information for his sister, Rio’s business competitor in the take it off male hard bod community.
Although she is older, Rio and Bryce are attracted to one another and she even struts on stage with him when he suffers stage fright. Torn between his love for two male strip joint owners, Bryce must choose between his sister and his beloved even as he believes that he and Rio could never share anything permanently due to their age difference.
The concept is fascinating as a younger man doing a favor for his sister goes undercover in a strip joint owned by an older woman; only to have a heated attraction between them. The problem is Bryce is too immature for a sophisticate like Rio to accept his childish temperament even though he is able to draw the heated out of control sexual teen-like desires from her. Readers who relish the nano details of the sexual encounters and the striptease will want to follow Bryce and Rio as they mutually STRIP one another’s sensibility.
Harriet Klausner
Take Me to Bed-Joan Elizabeth Lloyd
Take Me to Bed
Joan Elizabeth Lloyd
Kensington Aphrodisia, Nov 2008, $12.95
ISBN: 9780758212788
"The Pleasures of Jessicalynn". Thirteen years of at best mild sex is about to end for Jessie with her divorce. Her friend Steph and her husband Brian explain to Jessie they have an open marriage seeking outside sex partners to heat the sheets at home. They welcome Jessie to join them.
"Velvet Whispers". Thirty-two years old divorcee Alice needs money to pay for her mother's nursing care. Her friend Betsy suggests Alice open up a phone-sex service as she has found that a lucrative and relatively easy way to bring in income. Alice assumes she will fail at sex talk because her own sex life is ground zero. Instead she takes to the sexual fantasies of her clients like a pro and is ready to test these dreams in person.
Though the plots are thin as they are more sexual vignettes, these are two intriguing erotic novellas. In each case, the lead female has been disappointed in their respective marital relationship especially the sexual part. Encouraged by friends, they are willing to try almost anything in their quest for the golden climax that they never felt before even in their marriages or in their dreams.
Harriet Klausner
Joan Elizabeth Lloyd
Kensington Aphrodisia, Nov 2008, $12.95
ISBN: 9780758212788
"The Pleasures of Jessicalynn". Thirteen years of at best mild sex is about to end for Jessie with her divorce. Her friend Steph and her husband Brian explain to Jessie they have an open marriage seeking outside sex partners to heat the sheets at home. They welcome Jessie to join them.
"Velvet Whispers". Thirty-two years old divorcee Alice needs money to pay for her mother's nursing care. Her friend Betsy suggests Alice open up a phone-sex service as she has found that a lucrative and relatively easy way to bring in income. Alice assumes she will fail at sex talk because her own sex life is ground zero. Instead she takes to the sexual fantasies of her clients like a pro and is ready to test these dreams in person.
Though the plots are thin as they are more sexual vignettes, these are two intriguing erotic novellas. In each case, the lead female has been disappointed in their respective marital relationship especially the sexual part. Encouraged by friends, they are willing to try almost anything in their quest for the golden climax that they never felt before even in their marriages or in their dreams.
Harriet Klausner
Simply Sinful-Kate Pearce
Simply Sinful
Kate Pearce
Kensington Aphrodisia, Nov 2008, $13.95
ISBN: 9780758223555
Abby and James Beecham were forced to marry very young when neither was mature enough for a relationship and both were clumsy in bed. Sixteen years later their marriage is a shambles, but Abby wants to try one last time while James cannot bear another disappointing sexual encounter though he loves his wife. She wants her husband back in her bed making love and hopefully a child or two, but both fear another series of incompetent trysts.
Peter Howard spent a decade as a sex slave in a Turkish brothel. He agrees to tutor the couple on the pleasures of sex. However though he likes James, Peter is very attracted to Abby who is an enthusiastic student. His time with her makes Peter understand the difference between sex and bliss, but she is married to a nice man as he keeps reminding his two heads.
The refreshing spin to this historical erotic romance is that both Beecham’s receive sex lessons from the tutor. Character driven by the lead trio and filled with a variety of sexual scenarios to include ménage a trois, bondage, and male-male, the story line is actually a strong relationship drama. Sub-genre fans will enjoy this well written heated tale.
Harriet Klausner
Kate Pearce
Kensington Aphrodisia, Nov 2008, $13.95
ISBN: 9780758223555
Abby and James Beecham were forced to marry very young when neither was mature enough for a relationship and both were clumsy in bed. Sixteen years later their marriage is a shambles, but Abby wants to try one last time while James cannot bear another disappointing sexual encounter though he loves his wife. She wants her husband back in her bed making love and hopefully a child or two, but both fear another series of incompetent trysts.
Peter Howard spent a decade as a sex slave in a Turkish brothel. He agrees to tutor the couple on the pleasures of sex. However though he likes James, Peter is very attracted to Abby who is an enthusiastic student. His time with her makes Peter understand the difference between sex and bliss, but she is married to a nice man as he keeps reminding his two heads.
The refreshing spin to this historical erotic romance is that both Beecham’s receive sex lessons from the tutor. Character driven by the lead trio and filled with a variety of sexual scenarios to include ménage a trois, bondage, and male-male, the story line is actually a strong relationship drama. Sub-genre fans will enjoy this well written heated tale.
Harriet Klausner
Moving Targets and Other Tales of Valdemar-Mercedes Lackey (editor)
Moving Targets and Other Tales of Valdemar
Mercedes Lackey (editor)
Daw, Dec 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 9780756405281
Obviously for fans of the classic fantasy saga, the latest Valdemar anthology written by the mythos creator Mercedes Lackey and fourteen other authors (“Heart, Home and Hearth” is collaboration between Sarah Hoyt and Kate Paulk) is once again a great collection. Each tale is well written and brings a personal view to Valdemar yet the contributions remain inside the Lackey sphere; though some push the limitations. The Companions select the Chosen and that is where the fun lies whether it is Falnac a child in his first duel (“The Cheat” by Richard Lee Byers), Mickey Zucker Reichert’s Herald “Dreams of Mountain Clover” or Tamar learning “What Fire Is” by Janni Lee Simmer. As always this is an excellent tribute to Mercedes Lackey as Tanya Huff, Brenda Cooper, Kristin Schwegel, Michael Z. Williamson, Stephanie Shaver, Fiona Patton, Judith Tarr, and Rosemary Edghill escort readers back to the realm of “Other Tales of Valdemar”. See SWORD OF ICE AND OTHER TALES OF VALDEMAR, SUN IN GLORY AND OTHER TALES OF VALDEMAR and CROSSROADS AND OTHER TALES OF VALDEMAR for previous tours.
Harriet Klausner
Mercedes Lackey (editor)
Daw, Dec 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 9780756405281
Obviously for fans of the classic fantasy saga, the latest Valdemar anthology written by the mythos creator Mercedes Lackey and fourteen other authors (“Heart, Home and Hearth” is collaboration between Sarah Hoyt and Kate Paulk) is once again a great collection. Each tale is well written and brings a personal view to Valdemar yet the contributions remain inside the Lackey sphere; though some push the limitations. The Companions select the Chosen and that is where the fun lies whether it is Falnac a child in his first duel (“The Cheat” by Richard Lee Byers), Mickey Zucker Reichert’s Herald “Dreams of Mountain Clover” or Tamar learning “What Fire Is” by Janni Lee Simmer. As always this is an excellent tribute to Mercedes Lackey as Tanya Huff, Brenda Cooper, Kristin Schwegel, Michael Z. Williamson, Stephanie Shaver, Fiona Patton, Judith Tarr, and Rosemary Edghill escort readers back to the realm of “Other Tales of Valdemar”. See SWORD OF ICE AND OTHER TALES OF VALDEMAR, SUN IN GLORY AND OTHER TALES OF VALDEMAR and CROSSROADS AND OTHER TALES OF VALDEMAR for previous tours.
Harriet Klausner
Princeps’ Fury-Jim Butcher
Princeps’ Fury
Jim Butcher
Ace, Nov 25 2008, $25.95
ISBN: 9780441016389
Tavi of Calderon, once an apprentice sheep herder, has become a legend as he is Princeps Gaius Octavian, heir to the throne of Alera and the grandson of the First Lord Gaius Sextus. Tavi negotiated a peace with Alera’s latest enemy, the Canim, ending two years of fighting. The people of Alera use furies (elementals) to perform magic. Tavi escorts the Canim to their home on vessels made for this voyage, but a fierce storm throws the fleet off course, they land in the range of Shuar.
When they reach the stronghold, they realize the Canim have been destroyes by the Vord, a hive like life form that can change shapes and are ruining the earth so that humans and the wolf-like Canim cannot survive. Tavi has a plan to move the surviving Canim so they return to his home to join forces against the Vord. He is unaware that the Vord has already invaded Alera’s southlands spreading disaster everywhere they go. The Alerans who have successfully met every external threat for ten centuries are in trouble from the deadliest enemy of all; political intrigue divides Alera further when a united front is the only way the Alerans can possibly survive.
Jim Butcher, obviously renowned for his Dresden Files, also writes a strong fantasy based on the Roman Empire mixing with other species, magicks and elementals. As is the case with Dresden, Mr. Butcher has the uncanny ability to make his Codex Alera realm seem real; as he understands it is in the subtle details. Tavi is a natural born leader whose strong moral instincts make him an ideal ruler as he is able to forge an alliance with a recent foe and have former enemies work together for the common good. Different characters narrate the story so that the audience knows what is happening from a 360 degree perspective, which adds depth to an exciting fantasy thriller.
Harriet Klausner
Jim Butcher
Ace, Nov 25 2008, $25.95
ISBN: 9780441016389
Tavi of Calderon, once an apprentice sheep herder, has become a legend as he is Princeps Gaius Octavian, heir to the throne of Alera and the grandson of the First Lord Gaius Sextus. Tavi negotiated a peace with Alera’s latest enemy, the Canim, ending two years of fighting. The people of Alera use furies (elementals) to perform magic. Tavi escorts the Canim to their home on vessels made for this voyage, but a fierce storm throws the fleet off course, they land in the range of Shuar.
When they reach the stronghold, they realize the Canim have been destroyes by the Vord, a hive like life form that can change shapes and are ruining the earth so that humans and the wolf-like Canim cannot survive. Tavi has a plan to move the surviving Canim so they return to his home to join forces against the Vord. He is unaware that the Vord has already invaded Alera’s southlands spreading disaster everywhere they go. The Alerans who have successfully met every external threat for ten centuries are in trouble from the deadliest enemy of all; political intrigue divides Alera further when a united front is the only way the Alerans can possibly survive.
Jim Butcher, obviously renowned for his Dresden Files, also writes a strong fantasy based on the Roman Empire mixing with other species, magicks and elementals. As is the case with Dresden, Mr. Butcher has the uncanny ability to make his Codex Alera realm seem real; as he understands it is in the subtle details. Tavi is a natural born leader whose strong moral instincts make him an ideal ruler as he is able to forge an alliance with a recent foe and have former enemies work together for the common good. Different characters narrate the story so that the audience knows what is happening from a 360 degree perspective, which adds depth to an exciting fantasy thriller.
Harriet Klausner
Viking Warrior-Connie Mason
Viking Warrior
Connie Mason
Leisure, Nov 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 9780843957464
In the ninth century, Wulfric the Ruthless has no time to grieve the loss of his wife and their unborn child; killed during a Danish raid on his farm. His heart and head are filled with one thought, revenge.
The Norsemen abduct beautiful Reyna, who vows vengeance on the Viking Warrior who kidnapped her. She is beyond anger when she is dumped as a slave to Wulfric, whom initially she thought was the ruthless man who stole her from her home, but quickly realized she was wrong though the Viking she hates looks similar to her master. Wulfric does not want her on his farm. However, as they begin to know one another, they begin to fall in love. He must open his heart to love while she must trust her heart to love if they are to overcome their respective pasts.
VIKING WARRIOR is an enjoyable Dark Ages Northern European romance. The lead couple is an intriguing pairing as both have strong issues with the kin of the other so that their desire, need, and ultimately love seems doomed to failure. Sub-genre fans will enjoy the historical romance between the Dane healer and the Viking Warrior.
Harriet Klausner
Connie Mason
Leisure, Nov 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 9780843957464
In the ninth century, Wulfric the Ruthless has no time to grieve the loss of his wife and their unborn child; killed during a Danish raid on his farm. His heart and head are filled with one thought, revenge.
The Norsemen abduct beautiful Reyna, who vows vengeance on the Viking Warrior who kidnapped her. She is beyond anger when she is dumped as a slave to Wulfric, whom initially she thought was the ruthless man who stole her from her home, but quickly realized she was wrong though the Viking she hates looks similar to her master. Wulfric does not want her on his farm. However, as they begin to know one another, they begin to fall in love. He must open his heart to love while she must trust her heart to love if they are to overcome their respective pasts.
VIKING WARRIOR is an enjoyable Dark Ages Northern European romance. The lead couple is an intriguing pairing as both have strong issues with the kin of the other so that their desire, need, and ultimately love seems doomed to failure. Sub-genre fans will enjoy the historical romance between the Dane healer and the Viking Warrior.
Harriet Klausner
Prisoner of the Flames-Dawn MacTavish
Prisoner of the Flames
Dawn MacTavish
Leisure, Nov 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780843959826
When he was a baby, Robert Mack survived a fire though he would take exception with the word survive. The left side of his face was left scarred from the flames. Anyone who sees his visage either shows pity or horror. Robert loathes both so he wears a helm to hide his severely marked face.
Unable to cope any longer with the reactions, in 1562 as the Laird of Berwickshire, Robert travels to Paris to persuade renowned healer Nostradamus to mend his face so he can go out in public or even in his home without wearing a mask. However France is a divided country on the verge of a religious civil war in which the teenage King Francis II seems to weak to prevent. In that milieu, Robert saves the life of blind flower girl Violette Cherier, which leaves him with powerful enemies who want the foreign Good Samaritan dead.
This is a superb historical romance starring two wonderful protagonist who have physical problems that threaten as much as the French Religious War to keep them apart. The action-packed story line uses real persona and a period of dangerous unrest as a backdrop to the excellent love story. Robert and Violette are fully developed with each used to coping with their handicap, but neither knows what to do about their attraction. However, even with a top rate romance that moves the Phantom of the Opera to the sixteenth century, it is the history and the protagonists who make PRISONER OF THE FLAME one of the sub-genres top novels of the year.
Harriet Klausner
Dawn MacTavish
Leisure, Nov 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780843959826
When he was a baby, Robert Mack survived a fire though he would take exception with the word survive. The left side of his face was left scarred from the flames. Anyone who sees his visage either shows pity or horror. Robert loathes both so he wears a helm to hide his severely marked face.
Unable to cope any longer with the reactions, in 1562 as the Laird of Berwickshire, Robert travels to Paris to persuade renowned healer Nostradamus to mend his face so he can go out in public or even in his home without wearing a mask. However France is a divided country on the verge of a religious civil war in which the teenage King Francis II seems to weak to prevent. In that milieu, Robert saves the life of blind flower girl Violette Cherier, which leaves him with powerful enemies who want the foreign Good Samaritan dead.
This is a superb historical romance starring two wonderful protagonist who have physical problems that threaten as much as the French Religious War to keep them apart. The action-packed story line uses real persona and a period of dangerous unrest as a backdrop to the excellent love story. Robert and Violette are fully developed with each used to coping with their handicap, but neither knows what to do about their attraction. However, even with a top rate romance that moves the Phantom of the Opera to the sixteenth century, it is the history and the protagonists who make PRISONER OF THE FLAME one of the sub-genres top novels of the year.
Harriet Klausner
Anchors Aweigh-Kathleen Bacus
Anchors Aweigh
Kathleen Bacus
Love Spell, Nov 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 978050527660
Grandville Iowa Tressa “Calamity” Jayne Turner still remains in shell shock with the marriage of her grandmother (see CALAMITY JAYNE HEADS WEST). She can handle the geriatrics saying I do, but she has problems picturing mom in the boudoir so grandma is a vivid nightmare. Still Tressa looks forward to the week long post wedding gala as the family will celebrate granny’s nuptials on a cruise ship. Tressa, who believes in show me the beef so she can dine on it, expects great food and perhaps a bit of romance on board and at the port call beach stops.
Except for hunk Ranger Rick Townsend nothing goes right. First this is a health food cruise; pass the broccoli with no butter or salt. Second, her cheating fiancé and his aunt are on board making more waves than the Bermuda Triangle makes. Finally someone is plotting a murder. All this occurs inside of the Bermuda love triangle, in which Tressa understands the meaning of calamity.
The latest Calamity Jane tale is an amusing ocean voyage in which the heroine seems to find trouble everywhere she goes, as usual. The story line is a lighthearted frolic in which Jayne deals with two beaus, a potential murder, and her family while trying to find something worth eating. Although the heroine’s antics have not changed starting with her self-deprecating asides and her ability to land in trouble, series fans will enjoy her latest escapades.
Harriet Klausner
Kathleen Bacus
Love Spell, Nov 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 978050527660
Grandville Iowa Tressa “Calamity” Jayne Turner still remains in shell shock with the marriage of her grandmother (see CALAMITY JAYNE HEADS WEST). She can handle the geriatrics saying I do, but she has problems picturing mom in the boudoir so grandma is a vivid nightmare. Still Tressa looks forward to the week long post wedding gala as the family will celebrate granny’s nuptials on a cruise ship. Tressa, who believes in show me the beef so she can dine on it, expects great food and perhaps a bit of romance on board and at the port call beach stops.
Except for hunk Ranger Rick Townsend nothing goes right. First this is a health food cruise; pass the broccoli with no butter or salt. Second, her cheating fiancé and his aunt are on board making more waves than the Bermuda Triangle makes. Finally someone is plotting a murder. All this occurs inside of the Bermuda love triangle, in which Tressa understands the meaning of calamity.
The latest Calamity Jane tale is an amusing ocean voyage in which the heroine seems to find trouble everywhere she goes, as usual. The story line is a lighthearted frolic in which Jayne deals with two beaus, a potential murder, and her family while trying to find something worth eating. Although the heroine’s antics have not changed starting with her self-deprecating asides and her ability to land in trouble, series fans will enjoy her latest escapades.
Harriet Klausner
Quick Study-Maggie Barbieri
Quick Study
Maggie Barbieri
St. Martin's, Dec 2008, $24.95
ISBN: 0312376758
When St. Thomas University English Lit Professor Alison Bergeron is not teaching, dating her NYPD boyfriend Bobby Crawford, or going to Manhattan to visit Rangerland in MSG wearing a Messier sweatshirt, she performs sixty hours of community service. It is at a soup kitchen that she met illegal Ecuadorian immigrant Hernan Escalante and his extended family. She hires Hernan to paint her dining room. Hernan and his nephew Jose Tomasso arrive while Alison still recuperates from two large beers last night watching hockey at the Garden.
Soon afterward Hose vanishes only to be found floating in the Hudson, near the Bronx’s luxurious Riviera Pointe condominiums. Although she knows better after her last whodunit got her in trouble with State Troopers, Alison, believing the death of an illegal will be swept into the river, investigates the homicide. A second murder occurs at Riviera Pointe while Hernan vanishes. Fearing for her new friend’s life though rationally she assumes he ran because of his status or lack thereof, Alison and her friends with the help of former sweetheart Jack McManus, whose other plus is he works for the New York Rangers, continue their inquiry even as her current boyfriend Bobby insists she cease and desist.
The hat trick Murder 101 cozy (see EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES and MURDER 101) is an enjoyable whodunit starring a wonderful lead activist who knows she shouldn’t but can’t help but getting involved. Maggie makes the tale with her amusing asides for example her observation that she is tall but not big yet Bobby must see her as gigantic because he always buys her extra large clothing like the Messier t-shirt. The mystery is fun to follow as amateur sleuthing spins out of control. Except for Boston Bruins fans, readers will enjoy the antics of the number one New York Ranger fan.
Harriet Klausner
Maggie Barbieri
St. Martin's, Dec 2008, $24.95
ISBN: 0312376758
When St. Thomas University English Lit Professor Alison Bergeron is not teaching, dating her NYPD boyfriend Bobby Crawford, or going to Manhattan to visit Rangerland in MSG wearing a Messier sweatshirt, she performs sixty hours of community service. It is at a soup kitchen that she met illegal Ecuadorian immigrant Hernan Escalante and his extended family. She hires Hernan to paint her dining room. Hernan and his nephew Jose Tomasso arrive while Alison still recuperates from two large beers last night watching hockey at the Garden.
Soon afterward Hose vanishes only to be found floating in the Hudson, near the Bronx’s luxurious Riviera Pointe condominiums. Although she knows better after her last whodunit got her in trouble with State Troopers, Alison, believing the death of an illegal will be swept into the river, investigates the homicide. A second murder occurs at Riviera Pointe while Hernan vanishes. Fearing for her new friend’s life though rationally she assumes he ran because of his status or lack thereof, Alison and her friends with the help of former sweetheart Jack McManus, whose other plus is he works for the New York Rangers, continue their inquiry even as her current boyfriend Bobby insists she cease and desist.
The hat trick Murder 101 cozy (see EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES and MURDER 101) is an enjoyable whodunit starring a wonderful lead activist who knows she shouldn’t but can’t help but getting involved. Maggie makes the tale with her amusing asides for example her observation that she is tall but not big yet Bobby must see her as gigantic because he always buys her extra large clothing like the Messier t-shirt. The mystery is fun to follow as amateur sleuthing spins out of control. Except for Boston Bruins fans, readers will enjoy the antics of the number one New York Ranger fan.
Harriet Klausner
Better off Undead-Martin H. Greenberg and Daniel M. Hoyt
Better off Undead
Martin H. Greenberg and Daniel M. Hoyt
Daw, Nov 2008, $
ISBN: 9780756405120
This eighteen new story anthology focuses on a variety of different “Undead” species and not just vampires as mummies, fossils, ghosts, and other supernatural creatures. The collection is divided into four major categories: Afterlife, Spirit, Flesh and Undead. Each section contains at least four entries. All the contributions are well written even as they run the gamut from humorous satire to ironic frightening lampoon. This reviewer’s overall favorite section is the Afterlife as Sarah A. Hoyt, Dave Freer, Laura Resnick, and Esther M. Friesner provide revenant and irreverent glimpses of life in the beyond. As amusing is Jay Lake’s ode to diets “Two All Beef Patties” (just avoid meat for a while). Readers will enjoy the look into whether one is BETTER OFF UNDEAD or not depends on what form you take (and the paranormal the reader likes best) as the rotting flesh of zombies leaves a lot to be desired especially if you are the clean up crew. This is lighthearted gallows humor with a tongue in cheek (that is if it has not rotted away) in which none of the authors take being undead graveyard seriously as even the Mummy is a con artist.
Harriet Klausner
Martin H. Greenberg and Daniel M. Hoyt
Daw, Nov 2008, $
ISBN: 9780756405120
This eighteen new story anthology focuses on a variety of different “Undead” species and not just vampires as mummies, fossils, ghosts, and other supernatural creatures. The collection is divided into four major categories: Afterlife, Spirit, Flesh and Undead. Each section contains at least four entries. All the contributions are well written even as they run the gamut from humorous satire to ironic frightening lampoon. This reviewer’s overall favorite section is the Afterlife as Sarah A. Hoyt, Dave Freer, Laura Resnick, and Esther M. Friesner provide revenant and irreverent glimpses of life in the beyond. As amusing is Jay Lake’s ode to diets “Two All Beef Patties” (just avoid meat for a while). Readers will enjoy the look into whether one is BETTER OFF UNDEAD or not depends on what form you take (and the paranormal the reader likes best) as the rotting flesh of zombies leaves a lot to be desired especially if you are the clean up crew. This is lighthearted gallows humor with a tongue in cheek (that is if it has not rotted away) in which none of the authors take being undead graveyard seriously as even the Mummy is a con artist.
Harriet Klausner
Webdancers-Brian Herbert
Webdancers
Brian Herbert
Five Star, Dec 2008, $25.95
ISBN: 15941542181
The Timeweb that links time and space in the galaxy is rapidly deteriorating. If this cosmic transportation infrastructure should disintegrate as the trends currently seem, the galaxy could collapse into something not much removed from the Stone Age; that is if it survives as nobody knows what the devastation will be.
While galactic ecologist Noah Watanabe tries to prevent the cosmic eco disaster, his interactions with the Timeweb has changed him from human to something else. At the same time Noah heroically works on saving the Timeweb, war is imminent between the Hib-Adu Coalition and the newly formed allies the Merchant Prince Alliance humans and the Mutati Kingdom shape-shifters, who were enemies before their mutual cooperation to stop their common foe. Time is running out on all fronts as Noah struggles to keep the web from destruction which would release unknown energy forces across the galaxy leaving behind nothing but dust.
The third and final Timeweb Chronicles outer space adventure (see TIMEWEB and THE WEB AND THE STARS) is an exciting tale that never slows down as the two major subplots begin to merge into what looks like a cataclysmic end to the galaxy. The fast-paced story line is diminished somewhat by having two significant threats in which either could turn the galaxy into dust; the parts overwhelm the sum so that neither comes across as cosmic as intended. Still Brian Herbert finishes the Timeweb Chronicles with a doomsday scenario with the only hope to avoid the Big Crunch being Noah.
Harriet Klausner
Brian Herbert
Five Star, Dec 2008, $25.95
ISBN: 15941542181
The Timeweb that links time and space in the galaxy is rapidly deteriorating. If this cosmic transportation infrastructure should disintegrate as the trends currently seem, the galaxy could collapse into something not much removed from the Stone Age; that is if it survives as nobody knows what the devastation will be.
While galactic ecologist Noah Watanabe tries to prevent the cosmic eco disaster, his interactions with the Timeweb has changed him from human to something else. At the same time Noah heroically works on saving the Timeweb, war is imminent between the Hib-Adu Coalition and the newly formed allies the Merchant Prince Alliance humans and the Mutati Kingdom shape-shifters, who were enemies before their mutual cooperation to stop their common foe. Time is running out on all fronts as Noah struggles to keep the web from destruction which would release unknown energy forces across the galaxy leaving behind nothing but dust.
The third and final Timeweb Chronicles outer space adventure (see TIMEWEB and THE WEB AND THE STARS) is an exciting tale that never slows down as the two major subplots begin to merge into what looks like a cataclysmic end to the galaxy. The fast-paced story line is diminished somewhat by having two significant threats in which either could turn the galaxy into dust; the parts overwhelm the sum so that neither comes across as cosmic as intended. Still Brian Herbert finishes the Timeweb Chronicles with a doomsday scenario with the only hope to avoid the Big Crunch being Noah.
Harriet Klausner
The Knights of the Cornerstone-James P Blaylock
The Knights of the Cornerstone
James P Blaylock
Ace, Dec 2008, $23.95
ISBN: 9780441016532
Cartoonist Calvin Bryson knows he retreated from the world by hiding behind his work and Californiana literary collection as his ex-fiancée Elaine reminded him. Now a letter from his Uncle Al Lymon inviting him to visit him and ailing Aunt Nettie arrives. It has been three years since he has visited New Cypress in the desert squeezed by the Dead Mountains and the Colorado River. He also received a package from Warren Hosmer, his ancient cousin several numbers removed, postmarked Iowa to deliver to Uncle Al.
Reluctantly Calvin, who prefers to catalogue his Californiana collection, drives to his uncle’s abode, the Knights of the Cornerstone. However before arriving at New Cyprus, someone steals the Hosmer package. Upon arrival at the Knights of the Cornerstone, Calvin explains he lost the package, but finds out that was a fake; the real item, the mythical magical artifact, the Veil of Veronica, was delivered to Uncle Al. At the Cozy Diner waitress Donna serves him his pancakes reminding him she kissed him when they were six years old, but this time he wants to initiate the kiss; instead he leaves a cartoon and a psychotic tip. However, he soon realizes that his family back in Iowa and here are embroiled with the Knights fighting their enemies for control of the veil.
THE KNIGHTS OF THE CORNERSTONE is an engaging modern day desert (can’t say urban) fantasy that sub-genre fans will enjoy even as the story line in many ways is a conventional good vs. bad saga. The reason the audience will relish this novel and want more is Calvin, who in no way comes across as hero material, but unenthusiastically tries although his instincts tell him to flee back to his reclusive lifestyle before he is literally sent to Hell. James P Blaylock provides a fun light read that showcases blood is thicker than water especially when it flows from the body.
Harriet Klausner
James P Blaylock
Ace, Dec 2008, $23.95
ISBN: 9780441016532
Cartoonist Calvin Bryson knows he retreated from the world by hiding behind his work and Californiana literary collection as his ex-fiancée Elaine reminded him. Now a letter from his Uncle Al Lymon inviting him to visit him and ailing Aunt Nettie arrives. It has been three years since he has visited New Cypress in the desert squeezed by the Dead Mountains and the Colorado River. He also received a package from Warren Hosmer, his ancient cousin several numbers removed, postmarked Iowa to deliver to Uncle Al.
Reluctantly Calvin, who prefers to catalogue his Californiana collection, drives to his uncle’s abode, the Knights of the Cornerstone. However before arriving at New Cyprus, someone steals the Hosmer package. Upon arrival at the Knights of the Cornerstone, Calvin explains he lost the package, but finds out that was a fake; the real item, the mythical magical artifact, the Veil of Veronica, was delivered to Uncle Al. At the Cozy Diner waitress Donna serves him his pancakes reminding him she kissed him when they were six years old, but this time he wants to initiate the kiss; instead he leaves a cartoon and a psychotic tip. However, he soon realizes that his family back in Iowa and here are embroiled with the Knights fighting their enemies for control of the veil.
THE KNIGHTS OF THE CORNERSTONE is an engaging modern day desert (can’t say urban) fantasy that sub-genre fans will enjoy even as the story line in many ways is a conventional good vs. bad saga. The reason the audience will relish this novel and want more is Calvin, who in no way comes across as hero material, but unenthusiastically tries although his instincts tell him to flee back to his reclusive lifestyle before he is literally sent to Hell. James P Blaylock provides a fun light read that showcases blood is thicker than water especially when it flows from the body.
Harriet Klausner
Nights of Sin-Matthew Cook
Nights of Sin
Matthew Cook
Juno, Aug 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780809572823
Kirin and Lia are traveling to the Imperial City, which is protected by the thick wall known as the Armitage. They risk their lives to get there because they are needed to fight the Mor, who have the city under seige. The Mor are monsters who live underground; they loathe the people who crossed the sea to settle in this pleasant land. Lia is an aeromancer who can summons lightning; Kirin is a necromancer who can “create” something from the bodies of the dead. However Kirin vows to never use her blood magic again as it cost the life of her unborn son while her creations are mindless atrocities that obey only her will.
Everyone fears necromancers; even her captain whose life she saves shows no gratitude towards Kirin. Instead he expels her from the Imperial Army. Although Kirin refuses to use her talent, someone is applying necromancy to eradicate the Mor. The problem with that approach is that a person would have to die to make an undead army and this necromancer has no restraints unlike Kirin.
NIGHTS OF SIN, the sequel to THE BLOOD MAGIC, is a fantastic fantasy that will appeal to sword and sorcery lovers. Matthew Cook is a talented author who creates complex flawed characters like Kirin, who struggle with doing the right thing which is not always obvious. She is especially tormented over using her blood magic that could provide the greater good but at what cost to whom; as someone pays the piper; Kirin no longer wants to decide who. Besides the syllable connection, the Mor will remind readers of the Morlock as they dwell underground and communicate in a weird way; their goal is to eradicate the humans. There are great characterizations and a strong sense of "realism" which makes for a fascinating tale as Lia fears Kirin is turning to the dark side of the magical force.
Harriet Klausner
Matthew Cook
Juno, Aug 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780809572823
Kirin and Lia are traveling to the Imperial City, which is protected by the thick wall known as the Armitage. They risk their lives to get there because they are needed to fight the Mor, who have the city under seige. The Mor are monsters who live underground; they loathe the people who crossed the sea to settle in this pleasant land. Lia is an aeromancer who can summons lightning; Kirin is a necromancer who can “create” something from the bodies of the dead. However Kirin vows to never use her blood magic again as it cost the life of her unborn son while her creations are mindless atrocities that obey only her will.
Everyone fears necromancers; even her captain whose life she saves shows no gratitude towards Kirin. Instead he expels her from the Imperial Army. Although Kirin refuses to use her talent, someone is applying necromancy to eradicate the Mor. The problem with that approach is that a person would have to die to make an undead army and this necromancer has no restraints unlike Kirin.
NIGHTS OF SIN, the sequel to THE BLOOD MAGIC, is a fantastic fantasy that will appeal to sword and sorcery lovers. Matthew Cook is a talented author who creates complex flawed characters like Kirin, who struggle with doing the right thing which is not always obvious. She is especially tormented over using her blood magic that could provide the greater good but at what cost to whom; as someone pays the piper; Kirin no longer wants to decide who. Besides the syllable connection, the Mor will remind readers of the Morlock as they dwell underground and communicate in a weird way; their goal is to eradicate the humans. There are great characterizations and a strong sense of "realism" which makes for a fascinating tale as Lia fears Kirin is turning to the dark side of the magical force.
Harriet Klausner
The Man Must Marry-Janet Chapman
The Man Must Marry
Janet Chapman
Pocket, Nov 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 141650530X
If first appearances mean anything, Willamina “Willa” Kent needs to be shot. Her first moment at Tidewater International in front of the shareholders including the grandsons of her beloved mentor millionaire Abram Sinclair is a disaster. To add tension she has Bram’s critical proxy to vote on who replaces the shipping magnate as CEO.
However before she can vote, they learn Bram died. His will leaves his share of stock with Willa on the condition she marry one of his grandchildren, Sam Ben or Jesse. Sam and Willa travel on her yacht to Maine seeking a way out of the iron clad will. As they fall in love, she doubts he truly cares while he mist find a way to persuade her she means more to him than his now superseded ambitions of replacing Bram as the CEO.
Willa and the late Bram make this a fun contemporary romance as she is a courageous clumsy person and grandpa as he has done when he lived manipulates his grandchildren as a matchmaker from the grave. The rivalry between Sam and Ben is deep adding a realistic element to the fine story line and enabling a non family member to make a strong bid for the CEO position. Readers will enjoy the first Sincalir sibling story and look forward to a return to Maine for Ben’s tale.
Harriet Klausner
Janet Chapman
Pocket, Nov 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 141650530X
If first appearances mean anything, Willamina “Willa” Kent needs to be shot. Her first moment at Tidewater International in front of the shareholders including the grandsons of her beloved mentor millionaire Abram Sinclair is a disaster. To add tension she has Bram’s critical proxy to vote on who replaces the shipping magnate as CEO.
However before she can vote, they learn Bram died. His will leaves his share of stock with Willa on the condition she marry one of his grandchildren, Sam Ben or Jesse. Sam and Willa travel on her yacht to Maine seeking a way out of the iron clad will. As they fall in love, she doubts he truly cares while he mist find a way to persuade her she means more to him than his now superseded ambitions of replacing Bram as the CEO.
Willa and the late Bram make this a fun contemporary romance as she is a courageous clumsy person and grandpa as he has done when he lived manipulates his grandchildren as a matchmaker from the grave. The rivalry between Sam and Ben is deep adding a realistic element to the fine story line and enabling a non family member to make a strong bid for the CEO position. Readers will enjoy the first Sincalir sibling story and look forward to a return to Maine for Ben’s tale.
Harriet Klausner
A Seduction at Christmas-Cathy Maxwell
A Seduction at Christmas
Cathy Maxwell
Avon, Nov 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 9780061350986
In 1809 an angry Hester Bowen tells the woman she is two minutes late before realizing that the person she hired Annie Jenkins did not arrive. Fiona Lachlan explains Annie could not make it as she ran off with a soldier so she came instead. Hester wants Fiona to slip a potion into the drink of Lord Belkin. However, instead of meeting Belkin at the inn, she is escorted to the room occupied by Duke Dominic Lynsted who is expecting Andres Ramigio. His first reaction at seeing the beautiful woman who entered his room is that of a vision he had almost a decade ago that warned him to “beware innocence”.
However all hell breaks out soon after she entered his room when assassins arrive to kill him. Fiona and Dominic escape through the window heading to his family estate. Pretending to be his ward, Fiona assists Dominic on his quest to find a stolen ring and locate a Spaniard expatriate who vanished without a trace while eluding paid killers. As they fall in love, she wonders how an innocent like her became embroiled in “Scandals and Seductions”.
A SEDUCTION AT CHRISTMAS is an excellent Regency romantic amateur sleuth thriller that never slows down from the moment half of England enters Dominic’s room at the inn. The story line is fast-paced and filled with plenty of action especially when the guardian and the ward investigate. Cathy Maxwell provides a great historical romantic mystery that will keep her fans up late with a one sitting read.
Harriet Klausner
Cathy Maxwell
Avon, Nov 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 9780061350986
In 1809 an angry Hester Bowen tells the woman she is two minutes late before realizing that the person she hired Annie Jenkins did not arrive. Fiona Lachlan explains Annie could not make it as she ran off with a soldier so she came instead. Hester wants Fiona to slip a potion into the drink of Lord Belkin. However, instead of meeting Belkin at the inn, she is escorted to the room occupied by Duke Dominic Lynsted who is expecting Andres Ramigio. His first reaction at seeing the beautiful woman who entered his room is that of a vision he had almost a decade ago that warned him to “beware innocence”.
However all hell breaks out soon after she entered his room when assassins arrive to kill him. Fiona and Dominic escape through the window heading to his family estate. Pretending to be his ward, Fiona assists Dominic on his quest to find a stolen ring and locate a Spaniard expatriate who vanished without a trace while eluding paid killers. As they fall in love, she wonders how an innocent like her became embroiled in “Scandals and Seductions”.
A SEDUCTION AT CHRISTMAS is an excellent Regency romantic amateur sleuth thriller that never slows down from the moment half of England enters Dominic’s room at the inn. The story line is fast-paced and filled with plenty of action especially when the guardian and the ward investigate. Cathy Maxwell provides a great historical romantic mystery that will keep her fans up late with a one sitting read.
Harriet Klausner
Dead Ringer-Mary Burton
Dead Ringer
Mary Burton
Zebra, Nov 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 1420100270
In Henrico County, Virginia women who look similar to popular Richmond TV news anchor Kendall Shaw are being murdered. Next to each victim the serial killer leaves a charm bearing a single female name that makes no sense to the police.
Homicide detective Jacob Warwick recognized the similarity when he saw the first victim and wonders if the murdered females are practice runs before the psychopath comes after Kendall. Last year he rescued her from the abduction of his adopted father though she took a bullet anyway. He vows to keep her safe even as she insists she is not the target of a maniac while she investigates the serial killer homicides and the police efforts to catch him.
The romance between the cop and the journalist takes a needed back seat (comes on towards the end) to the strong whodunit as both are attracted to one another but argue over her safety. The story line is fast-paced from the moment Jacob makes his connection and never slows down as Mary Burton cleverly keeps the audience wondering who of her two prime suspects is actually the serial killer.
Harriet Klausner
Mary Burton
Zebra, Nov 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 1420100270
In Henrico County, Virginia women who look similar to popular Richmond TV news anchor Kendall Shaw are being murdered. Next to each victim the serial killer leaves a charm bearing a single female name that makes no sense to the police.
Homicide detective Jacob Warwick recognized the similarity when he saw the first victim and wonders if the murdered females are practice runs before the psychopath comes after Kendall. Last year he rescued her from the abduction of his adopted father though she took a bullet anyway. He vows to keep her safe even as she insists she is not the target of a maniac while she investigates the serial killer homicides and the police efforts to catch him.
The romance between the cop and the journalist takes a needed back seat (comes on towards the end) to the strong whodunit as both are attracted to one another but argue over her safety. The story line is fast-paced from the moment Jacob makes his connection and never slows down as Mary Burton cleverly keeps the audience wondering who of her two prime suspects is actually the serial killer.
Harriet Klausner
All I Want for Christmas is a Vampire-Kerrelyn Sparks
All I Want for Christmas is a Vampire
Kerrelyn Sparks
Avon, Nov 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780061118463
Vampires age the equivalent of one day to every human year. So when Ian McPhie was changed at fifteen, he looked like a boy. It took him a few centuries to become a man looking forward to finally enjoying female vamps while seeking his one true love. He left the Highlands for Manhattan to find both.
Toni Davis obtains work as a day guard to an Upper East Side vampire nest in which Ian is staying. She is actually undercover seeking proof that vampires exist after being attacked by three Malcontents in Central park and having her best friend locked away in a nut house for claiming the bloodsuckers exist. However, she and Ian are stunned by their cross species attraction that sparks their respective hearts with a first kiss under the mistletoe.
Ian who has made appearances in the Sparks urban fantasy romances is the co-star along with Toni as neither welcome love between them, but that fickle emotion ignores the warning from their respective brains. Both struggles with caring for someone from another species especially Toni who believes she must choose between her pal and her beloved while the Malcontents want to finish their blood killing of the heroine. Fans will want for Christmas this terrific tale and for the New Year another sparkling story from an author who makes vampires in New York seem real.
Harriet Klausner
Kerrelyn Sparks
Avon, Nov 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780061118463
Vampires age the equivalent of one day to every human year. So when Ian McPhie was changed at fifteen, he looked like a boy. It took him a few centuries to become a man looking forward to finally enjoying female vamps while seeking his one true love. He left the Highlands for Manhattan to find both.
Toni Davis obtains work as a day guard to an Upper East Side vampire nest in which Ian is staying. She is actually undercover seeking proof that vampires exist after being attacked by three Malcontents in Central park and having her best friend locked away in a nut house for claiming the bloodsuckers exist. However, she and Ian are stunned by their cross species attraction that sparks their respective hearts with a first kiss under the mistletoe.
Ian who has made appearances in the Sparks urban fantasy romances is the co-star along with Toni as neither welcome love between them, but that fickle emotion ignores the warning from their respective brains. Both struggles with caring for someone from another species especially Toni who believes she must choose between her pal and her beloved while the Malcontents want to finish their blood killing of the heroine. Fans will want for Christmas this terrific tale and for the New Year another sparkling story from an author who makes vampires in New York seem real.
Harriet Klausner
Blood Bargain-Maria Lima
Blood Bargain
Maria Lima
Juno, Nov 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 9780809573059
Rio Seco, Texas is a small town that is becoming yuppie-fied, but Keira Kelly still calls it home. Even though she keeps an apartment in town, Keira lives with the vampire tribal head Adam Walker on his Wild Moon ranch. She is also a supernatural being and is beginning the Change that will eventually turn her into a shapeshifter like her six half brothers, a healer or a necromancer witch. Watching over her as she Changes is her twelve century old sibling Tucker who is the lover of Adam’s second in command Niko.
Things are not going well in town. Four teens have vanished and an illegal alien working on a nearby ranch also disappeared a few months ago. Keira hears whispers and her visions are becoming stronger. Her troubles don’t end there because something is wrong with Adam as he sleeps from dawn to dusk. After a six hour nap he rejects sex with her. He lapses into a coma from not drinking blood. Keira is determined to find out what happened to the missing people and help Adam return to his senses even at the forfeit of her life as she would rather die than be without him.
Urban fantasy fans are going to love this romantic fantasy especially the Kelly clan, an extended family of supernaturals living within human society. Each of the major characters is fascinating and readers will particularly appreciate Tucker who was a Viking warrior who can shift into wolf. The mysteries and the town enhance BLOOD BARGAIN, a strong tale that fans of Kelly Armstrong and Kim Harrison will want to read.
Harriet Klausner
Maria Lima
Juno, Nov 2008, $7.99
ISBN: 9780809573059
Rio Seco, Texas is a small town that is becoming yuppie-fied, but Keira Kelly still calls it home. Even though she keeps an apartment in town, Keira lives with the vampire tribal head Adam Walker on his Wild Moon ranch. She is also a supernatural being and is beginning the Change that will eventually turn her into a shapeshifter like her six half brothers, a healer or a necromancer witch. Watching over her as she Changes is her twelve century old sibling Tucker who is the lover of Adam’s second in command Niko.
Things are not going well in town. Four teens have vanished and an illegal alien working on a nearby ranch also disappeared a few months ago. Keira hears whispers and her visions are becoming stronger. Her troubles don’t end there because something is wrong with Adam as he sleeps from dawn to dusk. After a six hour nap he rejects sex with her. He lapses into a coma from not drinking blood. Keira is determined to find out what happened to the missing people and help Adam return to his senses even at the forfeit of her life as she would rather die than be without him.
Urban fantasy fans are going to love this romantic fantasy especially the Kelly clan, an extended family of supernaturals living within human society. Each of the major characters is fascinating and readers will particularly appreciate Tucker who was a Viking warrior who can shift into wolf. The mysteries and the town enhance BLOOD BARGAIN, a strong tale that fans of Kelly Armstrong and Kim Harrison will want to read.
Harriet Klausner
Peacekeeper-Laura E. Reeve
Peacekeeper
Laura E. Reeve
Roc, Dec 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 0451462459
Fifteen years ago, the Armed Forces of the Consortium of Autonomous Worlds deactivated N-space pilot Major Ariane Kedros when her mission left behind an eradicated solar system. The Terran Expansion League, whose solar system and its inhabitants were murdered, believes she is a war criminal deserving execution. However, the AFCAW hide in a protection program the major and other alleged war criminals from the wrath of the TEL. Filled with guilt and remorse, currently she works for Aether Exploration in an uncharted sector seeking artifacts and occasionally goes on missions from AFCAW, who remind her she is still a reservist who can be deployed without notice.
However, someone has gotten inside the AFCAW databases to identify those who pandemic butchered the solar system. Twelve were assassinated including Ariane’s crewmember Cipher. Though she considers giving up her reserve commission and ergo AFCAW protection, Ariane accepts the mission to go undercover to expose the avenging killer; not understanding that her side has placed her as an expendable pawn in the elliptic path of the assassin.
PEACEKEEPER is an exhilarating military science fiction thriller that hooks readers from the opening scene when the AFCAW assign Ariane her orders. The story line is as fast-paced as any in recent memory as the heroine struggles with one deadly incident after another while her guilt threatens at any moment to overwhelm her. Fans will relish this fine tale as the challenges keep on mounting for a beleaguered heroine who believes her adversary has the right to kill war criminals like her though she will try her best to stop the killer.
Harriet Klausner
Laura E. Reeve
Roc, Dec 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 0451462459
Fifteen years ago, the Armed Forces of the Consortium of Autonomous Worlds deactivated N-space pilot Major Ariane Kedros when her mission left behind an eradicated solar system. The Terran Expansion League, whose solar system and its inhabitants were murdered, believes she is a war criminal deserving execution. However, the AFCAW hide in a protection program the major and other alleged war criminals from the wrath of the TEL. Filled with guilt and remorse, currently she works for Aether Exploration in an uncharted sector seeking artifacts and occasionally goes on missions from AFCAW, who remind her she is still a reservist who can be deployed without notice.
However, someone has gotten inside the AFCAW databases to identify those who pandemic butchered the solar system. Twelve were assassinated including Ariane’s crewmember Cipher. Though she considers giving up her reserve commission and ergo AFCAW protection, Ariane accepts the mission to go undercover to expose the avenging killer; not understanding that her side has placed her as an expendable pawn in the elliptic path of the assassin.
PEACEKEEPER is an exhilarating military science fiction thriller that hooks readers from the opening scene when the AFCAW assign Ariane her orders. The story line is as fast-paced as any in recent memory as the heroine struggles with one deadly incident after another while her guilt threatens at any moment to overwhelm her. Fans will relish this fine tale as the challenges keep on mounting for a beleaguered heroine who believes her adversary has the right to kill war criminals like her though she will try her best to stop the killer.
Harriet Klausner
The Engine's Child-Holly Phillips
The Engine's Child
Holly Phillips
Del Rey, Nov 2008, $15.00
ISBN: 9780345499653
The island is a tiny dot amidst the vast ocean that is everywhere. The islanders know their history as the ancestors fled from another world and were fortunate to find this needle. Over the years the small landmass has become overcrowded and shortage of food has become the norm. Myths and religions have developed about the homeland of the ancestors as a utopia and their use of mystical spiritual energy. Two major extreme groups are divided between returning to the perfect homeworld and siphoning the mystical energy of this world.
Moth is a religious novice training for the priesthood. She has committed the major transgression of falling in love and becoming pregnant from her trysts. She belongs to the secret sect that believes in using this water world’s spirit. They are constructing two magical-mechanical machines to convert the orb’s mystical energy into a usable form that will power the sailing ships seeking new land. Their adversaries are working on a vessel to return to the ancestors’ planet. War seems imminent.
This is a fascinating blending of science fiction and fantasy, but Holly Phillips never decides between a morality allegory and a thriller. Thus in spite of a fully depicted world and an interesting but frustrating unlikable lead character, the story line is divided. At times the plot poetically describes consequences like the Malthusian Catastrophe, the affluence gap between the wealthy and the starving; a Garden of Eden mythos, and a condemnation of religious intolerance. At other less poetic moments, the tale seems heading to a civil war. Moth with her tendencies to lie about her knowledge of facts on the ground (so Bush administration) adds to the confusion. Still THE ENGINE’S CHILD is an intriguing look at morality on another planet.
Harriet Klausner
Holly Phillips
Del Rey, Nov 2008, $15.00
ISBN: 9780345499653
The island is a tiny dot amidst the vast ocean that is everywhere. The islanders know their history as the ancestors fled from another world and were fortunate to find this needle. Over the years the small landmass has become overcrowded and shortage of food has become the norm. Myths and religions have developed about the homeland of the ancestors as a utopia and their use of mystical spiritual energy. Two major extreme groups are divided between returning to the perfect homeworld and siphoning the mystical energy of this world.
Moth is a religious novice training for the priesthood. She has committed the major transgression of falling in love and becoming pregnant from her trysts. She belongs to the secret sect that believes in using this water world’s spirit. They are constructing two magical-mechanical machines to convert the orb’s mystical energy into a usable form that will power the sailing ships seeking new land. Their adversaries are working on a vessel to return to the ancestors’ planet. War seems imminent.
This is a fascinating blending of science fiction and fantasy, but Holly Phillips never decides between a morality allegory and a thriller. Thus in spite of a fully depicted world and an interesting but frustrating unlikable lead character, the story line is divided. At times the plot poetically describes consequences like the Malthusian Catastrophe, the affluence gap between the wealthy and the starving; a Garden of Eden mythos, and a condemnation of religious intolerance. At other less poetic moments, the tale seems heading to a civil war. Moth with her tendencies to lie about her knowledge of facts on the ground (so Bush administration) adds to the confusion. Still THE ENGINE’S CHILD is an intriguing look at morality on another planet.
Harriet Klausner
Life After Genius-M. Ann Jacoby
Life After Genius
M. Ann Jacoby
Grand Central, Oct 29 2008, $24.99
ISBN: 0446199710
Theodore Mead Fegley grew up in High Grove, Illinois under the thumb of a martinet mom and an indifferent dad who was too busy running a funeral parlor and furniture store. Being a genius, Mead faced bullies and unfair physical comparisons to his older athletically gifted cousin as if brawn supersedes brain every time although Perry is his only friend. At fifteen he accepts a scholarship to attend Chicago University on a three year track.
At school, he focuses on solving Riemann Hypothesis while flourishing under the mentoring of Dr. Alexander. However, as he succeeds at math, he fails at personal relationships. Now on the verge of graduating at eighteen, Mead must give his presentation even as his long time college rival and enemy math major Herman Weinstein tries to destroy his research; instead feeling emotionally deceased he flees for home.
Though the key characters seem to come out of typecasting 101 boy genius, contemporary readers will enjoy this well written character study that looks at the down side of being the brain. Mead is an interesting protagonist whose intelligence without an emotional anchor leads to his shutting down his brain. Readers will appreciate his struggles to belong as LIFE AFTER GENIUS can prove disconcerting.
Harriet Klausner
M. Ann Jacoby
Grand Central, Oct 29 2008, $24.99
ISBN: 0446199710
Theodore Mead Fegley grew up in High Grove, Illinois under the thumb of a martinet mom and an indifferent dad who was too busy running a funeral parlor and furniture store. Being a genius, Mead faced bullies and unfair physical comparisons to his older athletically gifted cousin as if brawn supersedes brain every time although Perry is his only friend. At fifteen he accepts a scholarship to attend Chicago University on a three year track.
At school, he focuses on solving Riemann Hypothesis while flourishing under the mentoring of Dr. Alexander. However, as he succeeds at math, he fails at personal relationships. Now on the verge of graduating at eighteen, Mead must give his presentation even as his long time college rival and enemy math major Herman Weinstein tries to destroy his research; instead feeling emotionally deceased he flees for home.
Though the key characters seem to come out of typecasting 101 boy genius, contemporary readers will enjoy this well written character study that looks at the down side of being the brain. Mead is an interesting protagonist whose intelligence without an emotional anchor leads to his shutting down his brain. Readers will appreciate his struggles to belong as LIFE AFTER GENIUS can prove disconcerting.
Harriet Klausner
O Little Town-Don Reid
O Little Town
Don Reid
David C. Cook, Oct 2008, $16.99
ISBN: 9781434799302
In 1958 in Mt Jefferson, Macalbee’s Five & Dime manager Milton Sandridge is informed that fifteen year old Millie Franklin has been caught shoplifting. Milton would prefer to ignore the crime as the culprit is the daughter of Reverend Paul Franklin, pastor of the Methodist Church, but there are too many witnesses. He calls Police Lieutenant Buddy Briggs who comes over to talk with Millie before taking her home. Millie is upset and angry, but refuses to say anything further. Her father and her mother Dove ask her why.
Widower Walter Selmon, Milton’s father-in-law, is rushed to the hospital where his other son-in-law Camp Sterrett is a doctor. The medical tests conclude he is dying, upsetting his two adult daughters, Milton’s wife Colleen and Camp’s spouse Doris. Doris’ oldest of two sons, seventeen years old Louis informs his parents he impregnated sixteen year old Shirley Ann Briggs; who informs her dad the sheriff and her mom Amanda.
The key to this engaging historical fiction is the fully developed small-town cast who each has flaws, makes mistakes, and has issues. The subplot involving a teenage Walter and an actress in 1904 is well written but can distract from the prime 1958 drama. Still O LITTLE TOWN is a delightful inspirational tale with the theme of forgiveness running through both tracks accentuated years later with the tradition of the roses emphasizing all is forgiven.
Harriet Klausner
Don Reid
David C. Cook, Oct 2008, $16.99
ISBN: 9781434799302
In 1958 in Mt Jefferson, Macalbee’s Five & Dime manager Milton Sandridge is informed that fifteen year old Millie Franklin has been caught shoplifting. Milton would prefer to ignore the crime as the culprit is the daughter of Reverend Paul Franklin, pastor of the Methodist Church, but there are too many witnesses. He calls Police Lieutenant Buddy Briggs who comes over to talk with Millie before taking her home. Millie is upset and angry, but refuses to say anything further. Her father and her mother Dove ask her why.
Widower Walter Selmon, Milton’s father-in-law, is rushed to the hospital where his other son-in-law Camp Sterrett is a doctor. The medical tests conclude he is dying, upsetting his two adult daughters, Milton’s wife Colleen and Camp’s spouse Doris. Doris’ oldest of two sons, seventeen years old Louis informs his parents he impregnated sixteen year old Shirley Ann Briggs; who informs her dad the sheriff and her mom Amanda.
The key to this engaging historical fiction is the fully developed small-town cast who each has flaws, makes mistakes, and has issues. The subplot involving a teenage Walter and an actress in 1904 is well written but can distract from the prime 1958 drama. Still O LITTLE TOWN is a delightful inspirational tale with the theme of forgiveness running through both tracks accentuated years later with the tradition of the roses emphasizing all is forgiven.
Harriet Klausner
Jasper Mountain-Kathy Steffen
Jasper Mountain
Kathy Steffen
Medallion, Nov 2008, $15.95
ISBN 9781933836584
In 1873 Texas, in spite of gallant efforts to control the blaze, the fire marched on threatening to destroy Tumbling Creek Ranch. Owner Jack “Buck” Buchanan, Se. refuses to tell everyone to flee although his son Jack, Jr. pleads with him to do so before the inferno kills these loyal workers and family. When the house goes up in flames, Jack, Jr. takes responsibility for acquiescing to his dad, which led to his sister’s death
Buck’s best friend and his son’s godfather Victor Creely arrives with a proposition. He takes Jack to his mining operation at JASPER MOUNTAIN in Nebraska. There he finds incredibly unsafe working conditions enforced by Creely’s henchmen. He also meets Romani Milena Shabanov, whose paranormal skills enable her to know that Creely is a demon in human garb. As she and Jack fall in love, Milena cautions him to be careful. Her warning proves too late when Creely's thugs kill people followed by a cave-in trapping minors.
This is a superb Reconstruction Era romance in which the audience will feel they initially were battling the blaze and afterward living in a tent city on the ranch before going to the mines. The story line is action-packed, but extremely descriptive especially of the inferno aftermath and even more so the Dickensian looks at mining. The romance enhances the post Civil War glimpse of America through a strong characterizations though Creely is a pure evil villain with no redeeming qualities.
Harriet Klausner
Kathy Steffen
Medallion, Nov 2008, $15.95
ISBN 9781933836584
In 1873 Texas, in spite of gallant efforts to control the blaze, the fire marched on threatening to destroy Tumbling Creek Ranch. Owner Jack “Buck” Buchanan, Se. refuses to tell everyone to flee although his son Jack, Jr. pleads with him to do so before the inferno kills these loyal workers and family. When the house goes up in flames, Jack, Jr. takes responsibility for acquiescing to his dad, which led to his sister’s death
Buck’s best friend and his son’s godfather Victor Creely arrives with a proposition. He takes Jack to his mining operation at JASPER MOUNTAIN in Nebraska. There he finds incredibly unsafe working conditions enforced by Creely’s henchmen. He also meets Romani Milena Shabanov, whose paranormal skills enable her to know that Creely is a demon in human garb. As she and Jack fall in love, Milena cautions him to be careful. Her warning proves too late when Creely's thugs kill people followed by a cave-in trapping minors.
This is a superb Reconstruction Era romance in which the audience will feel they initially were battling the blaze and afterward living in a tent city on the ranch before going to the mines. The story line is action-packed, but extremely descriptive especially of the inferno aftermath and even more so the Dickensian looks at mining. The romance enhances the post Civil War glimpse of America through a strong characterizations though Creely is a pure evil villain with no redeeming qualities.
Harriet Klausner
Hot as Hell-HelenKay Dimon
Hot as Hell
HelenKay Dimon
Kensington Brava, Nov 2008, $14.00
ISBN: 9780758222251
Alexa “Lexy” Annabeth Stuart is confused so she decides to break the engagement with her fiancé Noah Paxton. Her bewilderment does not improve with her act of defiance as she remains perplexed about his behavior. She decides time away to meditate is the thing and knows just the place to go; so she leaves California for a Utah health spa to ponder whether Noah stole money from the company as alleged and why she still wants him; the prime reason is to meet someone who claims insider information.
Lexy is shocked to find her contact lying dead in her spa room. Meanwhile Noah knows he loves his Lexy and needs to keep her safe even before he proves he is innocent. He follows her to Utah, but she now wonders if her heart is insane as the evidence points to him being a killer, but she refuses to believe it.
Lexy and Noah are two of the best characters of the year as both are fully developed with multiplicity and emotional complexity. The mystery is superb due to Lexy who initially believes her ex sole money, but changes her mind when she finds her informer dead as she knows he would not commit homicide. The heat is on as HelenKay Dimon makes Utah as HOT AS HELL with a fabulous amateur sleuth romantic suspense.
Harriet Klausner
HelenKay Dimon
Kensington Brava, Nov 2008, $14.00
ISBN: 9780758222251
Alexa “Lexy” Annabeth Stuart is confused so she decides to break the engagement with her fiancé Noah Paxton. Her bewilderment does not improve with her act of defiance as she remains perplexed about his behavior. She decides time away to meditate is the thing and knows just the place to go; so she leaves California for a Utah health spa to ponder whether Noah stole money from the company as alleged and why she still wants him; the prime reason is to meet someone who claims insider information.
Lexy is shocked to find her contact lying dead in her spa room. Meanwhile Noah knows he loves his Lexy and needs to keep her safe even before he proves he is innocent. He follows her to Utah, but she now wonders if her heart is insane as the evidence points to him being a killer, but she refuses to believe it.
Lexy and Noah are two of the best characters of the year as both are fully developed with multiplicity and emotional complexity. The mystery is superb due to Lexy who initially believes her ex sole money, but changes her mind when she finds her informer dead as she knows he would not commit homicide. The heat is on as HelenKay Dimon makes Utah as HOT AS HELL with a fabulous amateur sleuth romantic suspense.
Harriet Klausner
Hey There (You With the Gun in Your Hand)-Robert J. Randisi
Hey There (You With the Gun in Your Hand)
Robert J. Randisi
Dunne, Dec 2008, $25.95
ISBN: 9780312376420
In 1961 Vegas, Sammy Davis Jr. knows that Sands Casino pit boss Eddie Gianelli has come to the aid of his Rat Pack pals (see Dean Martin’s tale EVERYBODY KILLS SOMEBODY SOMETIME and Frank Sinatra in LUCK BE A LADY, DON'T DIE). Since he needs help and knows he can trust Eddie, he hires him to make an exchange with a blackmailer. Someone broke into Sammy’s home, stealing an embarrassing career ending photo and now wants 25 grand for its return.
Eddie and his friend Jerry Epstein show up at the exchange point only to find a corpse with no photo. The pit boss and his buddy find themselves in a cat and mouse game across Nevada with blackmailers, cops, FBI and high ranking DC politicians though neither the two friends on the lam can understand why Hoover or the White House seem to be in on the chase.
Once again as with the previous two Rat Pack historical thrillers, Robert J. Randisi paying homage by making his real players come to life especially the entertainers whom the author clearly thinks highly of. The story line is zany and a bit over the top, but no one will care as the Rat Pack steals the show in spite of Eddie and Jerry’s excellent adventure.
Harriet Klausner
Robert J. Randisi
Dunne, Dec 2008, $25.95
ISBN: 9780312376420
In 1961 Vegas, Sammy Davis Jr. knows that Sands Casino pit boss Eddie Gianelli has come to the aid of his Rat Pack pals (see Dean Martin’s tale EVERYBODY KILLS SOMEBODY SOMETIME and Frank Sinatra in LUCK BE A LADY, DON'T DIE). Since he needs help and knows he can trust Eddie, he hires him to make an exchange with a blackmailer. Someone broke into Sammy’s home, stealing an embarrassing career ending photo and now wants 25 grand for its return.
Eddie and his friend Jerry Epstein show up at the exchange point only to find a corpse with no photo. The pit boss and his buddy find themselves in a cat and mouse game across Nevada with blackmailers, cops, FBI and high ranking DC politicians though neither the two friends on the lam can understand why Hoover or the White House seem to be in on the chase.
Once again as with the previous two Rat Pack historical thrillers, Robert J. Randisi paying homage by making his real players come to life especially the entertainers whom the author clearly thinks highly of. The story line is zany and a bit over the top, but no one will care as the Rat Pack steals the show in spite of Eddie and Jerry’s excellent adventure.
Harriet Klausner
Quofum-Alan Dean Foster
Quofum
Alan Dean Foster
Del Rey, Oct 28 2008, $25.00
ISBN: 9780345496058
The Humanx Commonwealth is intrigued with the unique planet Quofum, which is outside their sector, because the orb appears to vanish and reappear off their monitors. Captain Boylen is assigned to escort four xenologists to study the planet especially the life forms since the oceans contain alcohol.
Thus he and his crew bring two men, one woman and a Thanx to the mysterious planet. Upon arrival they find three shockers. First there are several primitive but intelligent species that are so dissimilar they could never evolve on the same orb. Second they encounter thousands of other various life-forms never seen anywhere else. Finally as mysterious as the diversity findings prove, the visitors have no idea who made a gigantic underground compound containing technology and gadgetry none of the scientists recognize.
This is a well written tale crucial to the expected final Pip and Flinx novel though the two stars never appear in QUOFUM. The story line is fast-paced and exciting, but disappointingly never finishes any key thread; instead it sets the background for that Pip and Flinx finale. Consequently fans of the saga will have mixed feelings about the trip to QUOFUM.
Harriet Klausner
Alan Dean Foster
Del Rey, Oct 28 2008, $25.00
ISBN: 9780345496058
The Humanx Commonwealth is intrigued with the unique planet Quofum, which is outside their sector, because the orb appears to vanish and reappear off their monitors. Captain Boylen is assigned to escort four xenologists to study the planet especially the life forms since the oceans contain alcohol.
Thus he and his crew bring two men, one woman and a Thanx to the mysterious planet. Upon arrival they find three shockers. First there are several primitive but intelligent species that are so dissimilar they could never evolve on the same orb. Second they encounter thousands of other various life-forms never seen anywhere else. Finally as mysterious as the diversity findings prove, the visitors have no idea who made a gigantic underground compound containing technology and gadgetry none of the scientists recognize.
This is a well written tale crucial to the expected final Pip and Flinx novel though the two stars never appear in QUOFUM. The story line is fast-paced and exciting, but disappointingly never finishes any key thread; instead it sets the background for that Pip and Flinx finale. Consequently fans of the saga will have mixed feelings about the trip to QUOFUM.
Harriet Klausner
The Devil’s Due-Jenna Black
The Devil’s Due
Jenna Black
Dell, Nov 25 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780440244929
Exorcist Morgan Kingsley finds it ironic that she is hosting a demon inside of her; although he is not just any demon as he is King Lugh, who was exiled from the Demon Realm by his brother Dougel in an attempt to take the throne. Nobody would believe that a demon resides inside an exorcist. He is enlightened trying to bring freedom and happiness to his species while his sibling wants to enslave residents of both planes.
Claudia Brewster comes to Morgan’s office asking her to exorcise a demon from her son even though he wanted to be a host. The frazzle mom rejects that assertion because her Tommy was a fanatic member of God’s Wrath, an extremist group wanting to kill all demons, their hosts and exorcists. In the middle of the Tommy inquiry, Claudia abruptly begs Morgan to end her investigation. A bit stunned because the mom was adamant that her son was infested before he registered to be a host, Morgan continues to sleuth only to place lives in jeopardy and needing to go outside the law to insure justice occurs.
One of the reasons urban fantasy is so popular is authors like Jenna Black who has the skill to make her readers believe that demons mingle with humans. In many ways demons are just like humans in that some are caring and others are evil; the regal brothers are the epitome of that dichotomy. The story line focuses on Morgan’s mystery investigation of whether an illegal act of a demon taking a human host without permission occurs. Fans will relish the latest superb Kingsley demonic exorcist thriller.
Harriet Klausner
Jenna Black
Dell, Nov 25 2008, $6.99
ISBN: 9780440244929
Exorcist Morgan Kingsley finds it ironic that she is hosting a demon inside of her; although he is not just any demon as he is King Lugh, who was exiled from the Demon Realm by his brother Dougel in an attempt to take the throne. Nobody would believe that a demon resides inside an exorcist. He is enlightened trying to bring freedom and happiness to his species while his sibling wants to enslave residents of both planes.
Claudia Brewster comes to Morgan’s office asking her to exorcise a demon from her son even though he wanted to be a host. The frazzle mom rejects that assertion because her Tommy was a fanatic member of God’s Wrath, an extremist group wanting to kill all demons, their hosts and exorcists. In the middle of the Tommy inquiry, Claudia abruptly begs Morgan to end her investigation. A bit stunned because the mom was adamant that her son was infested before he registered to be a host, Morgan continues to sleuth only to place lives in jeopardy and needing to go outside the law to insure justice occurs.
One of the reasons urban fantasy is so popular is authors like Jenna Black who has the skill to make her readers believe that demons mingle with humans. In many ways demons are just like humans in that some are caring and others are evil; the regal brothers are the epitome of that dichotomy. The story line focuses on Morgan’s mystery investigation of whether an illegal act of a demon taking a human host without permission occurs. Fans will relish the latest superb Kingsley demonic exorcist thriller.
Harriet Klausner