The Hexed-Heather Graham

The Hexed

Heather Graham

Mira, Jul 29 2014, $7.99

ISBN: 9780778316374

Peabody, Massachusetts high school senior, Craig “Rocky” Rockwell is not into Melissa Wilson though she makes it clear she wants him.  When he hears her calling out to him, he ignores her until he realizes she pleads for him to help her.  Thinking of slasher movies he rushes towards where he believes the voice emanates; only to find Melissa with her throat sliced.

Thirteen years later, a second female victim in nearby Swampscott with the same M.O. of a sliced throated, posed as a pentagram and a silver medallion on her chest enables FBI Agent Rocky’s transfer to the Krewe of Hunters unit.  Special Agent Jackson Crow assigns him to the Massachusetts case though there is some concern over his emotional attachment to the first known vic. 

Following the death of her great-Aunt Mina, Devin Lyle inherits her cabin and moves back to Salem to live there.  She finds a corpse nearby her home, which brings Rocky into her life.  They both quickly realize they share in common the ability to talk with ghosts as her Aunt Mina tries to assist them on their inquiry.

The latest Krewe of Hunters urban fantasy police procedural (see The Cursed and Phantom Evil) is a thrilling entry in which Heather Graham captures the essence of coastal Massachusetts north of Boston (I lived in the area including a wonderful month in Peabody in the early 1980s).  Although the protagonists feel less developed than the usual zoo Krewe, the paranormal investigation brings as always top rate enjoyment with the otherworldly elements feeling genuine; while Ms. Graham hauntingly brings to life (and death) Salem and the surrounding towns.

Harriet Klausner

The Mistress Of Normandy-Susan Wiggs

The Mistress Of Normandy

Susan Wiggs

Mira, Jul 29 2014, $7.99

ISBN: 9780778316367

In 1414 Westminster, King Henry V honors peasant soldier Enguerrand Fitzmarc for saving his life and that of his brother the Duke of Clarence from the religious fanatical Lollard assassins and for war heroics by naming him a knight the Baron of Longwood.  However, he also learns how diabolically clever the monarch is as his estate is in Normandy where his paternal roots will help since he speaks French; additionally his chosen bride Lady Lianna who rules there.

Irate Lianna learns that the King sent an outsider from across the Channel to be lord of her and her land as her husband.  She refuses to bow down to anyone even the monarch’s anointed.  When Lianna and Rand meet in the nearby woods; they are attracted to each other until she learns his identity.  Though she loves Rand, Lianna, feeling betrayed, rejects him.  While he struggles to earn the trust of the fiery female he cherishes, enemies of the English plot to kick the English off the continent starting with killing the pair and other Henry loyalists.

This “revised” version of 1991 The Lily and the Leopard (don’t know how much was refreshed) is a winning medieval romance though the changing relationship between the lead couple is typical of the subgenre.  Still Susan Wiggs (see Tudor Rose Trilogy) provides a satisfying historical starring two resilient resolute personalities clashing over love and leadership until a mutual deadly enemy threatens both of them and the locals they cherish.

Harriet Klausner

Mr. Right Goes Wrong-Pamela Morsi

Mr. Right Goes Wrong

Pamela Morsi

Mira, Jul 29 2014, $7.99

ISBN: 9780778316497

Accompanied by her teenage son Tru, Mazy Gulliver left Wilmington to move back to her mom’s home in Brandt Mountain, North Carolina; a place where her rep is that of a loose woman making bad decisions when it comes to men.  Needing a job, the accounting clerk is grateful when her former lover, Tru’s dad, Tad Driscoll hires her as a debt collector.

Her childhood friend Eli Latham still loves Mazy though she dumped the nice guy twice for unsavory types.  Deciding to go for a walk-off homerun or a game ending strikeout, Eli the good guy changes his image into a bad boy as that is what Mazy always wanted.  As she falls in love with the boy next door, he miscalculates the effect of the Tru factor; Mazy wants her Mr. Right to return to his being Mr. Nice instead of Mr. Wrong bad boy.

This regional third chance at love romance is a pleasurable contemporary starring a woman who found love with all the wrong men until now and a man who changes his nature so that he is her next and most important last one.  Although Eli’s changing his lifelong instinctual mental state 180 degrees overnight never comes across as plausible, readers will want Mazy and her caring Mr. Right to make it.

Harriet Klausner

The Dog Park-Laura Caldwell

The Dog Park

Laura Caldwell

Mira, Jul 29 2014, $7.99

ISBN: 9780778317142

In Chicago, stylist Jess Champlin and reporter Sebastian Hess spent most of their time together arguing.  To save their floundering marriage they adopted Baxter the Goldendoodle.  His human parents fall in love with him, but their relationship ended in divorce with shared custody of Baxter.  Jess and Sebastian continue to fight, for instance over Baxter’s leash and collar, as they see each other once a week since their dog moves back and forth between them.

While walking with Jess, Baxter breaks loose and runs at full speed towards a toddler and her mom.  He knocks the toddler down just before a truck would have hit little Clara.  Vinnie recorded the incident and placed it on YouTube where it goes viral as everyone agrees with the grateful mom Betsy that Baxter is a superdog hero.  As Jess’ business takes off, she begins dating for the first time since her relationship (except for Baxter) with Sebastian ended, but a betrayal over what happened to her in New York shatters her confidence yet she has gained strength to face the past including her love for ex.

The Dog Park is a fascinating contemporary starring an OCD female and her beloved canine she treats as her toddler; in fairness her ex sees Baxter as a “man” since the canine no longer is a puppy.  Baxter the superdog is the lead protagonist as he and the other dogs steal the show from his two-legged momma; his human dad is a secondary character.  Though at times the plot turns too cute, The Dog Park is an enjoyable tale that looks deeply at the bond between a dog and a human.

Harriet Klausner

The Oleander Sisters- Elaine Hussey

The Oleander Sisters

Elaine Hussey

Mira, Jul 29 2014, $14.99

ISBN: 9780778316435

In 1969 Biloxi, ashamed by having a child out of wedlock, Emily plans to marry Larry so that her illegitimate son Andy has a dad; the biological father Mark died in Viet Nam.  Emily’s “Sis” senses something not right with her sister’s fiancé and distrusts him as a husband and father, but cannot prove her intuitiveness that her sibling is making a big mistake.  As she works hard helping her grandma at the family owned and run Sweet Mama’s Café, Sis resolutely plans to be there for Emily.

Their brother Jim returns from having served in Nam, but is not the same person he was before his military stint.  Instead he is emotionally damaged suffering from severe battle fatigue.  As always when it comes to her family Sis resolutely helps Jim as he struggles to readjust to being a civilian.  As Hurricane Camille devastates the Gulf, Sis learns family secrets; which leads her to ponder what she wants with her life beyond caring and protecting her beloved kin.

The Oleander Sisters is a reflective historical family drama that focuses on roles in relationships during an era of social upheaval symbolized by Camille storming a person’s self-worth comfort zone.  Character driven especially by the title protagonists, readers will cheer for Sis to become more than just everyone’s protector with a dash in her title and Emily to face difficulty with courage.  Although the storyline goes as expected (except perhaps Andy’s youthful endeavor culminating with a moon pie named for him), this is a magnificent Mississippi tale.

Harriet Klausner

Cast In Flame-Michelle Sagara

Cast In Flame

Michelle Sagara

Mira, Jul 29 2014, $14.99

ISBN: 9780778317081

In the Elantra Empire having completed her dangerous mission as a harmoniste in the West March (see Cast in Sorrow) Kaylin March returns home to no apartment.  Just before she journeyed with Lord Nightshade and the Baroni into the West March, someone destroyed her efficiency apartment she shared with the only known female dragon Bellusdeo and an egg (see Cast In Peril).  Accompanied by two Baroni and her roommates, she resides in the Imperial Palace.  However, dragon gossip and fighting drive her crazy so in spite of the emperor’s concerns for Bellusdeo’s safety and assassins targeting them, Kaylin seeks a quieter address. 

Apartment hunting is put on hold when Teela asks Kaylin to come to the castle where a domestic dispute between the Nightshade brothers threatens everyone’s safety.  Compounding the potentially lethal sibling rivalry is the awakening of dormant magic.

The tenth Chronicles of Elantra fantasy returns to its thematic roots (see Cast in Fury with its cautionary re de facto racism cautionary message) with a strong look at people’s need for identity as a major part of social belongingness.  Loaded with action, series fans will appreciate Michelle Sagara’s skill to enhance her tense superb storyline with perceptiveness into characters’ motivations.

Harriet Klausner

Hot Intent-Cindy Dees

Hot Intent

Cindy Dees

Harlequin HQN, Jul 29 2014, $7.99

ISBN: 9780373778898

Kindergarten teacher Katie McCloud joined Doctors Unlimited as a translator in war torn Zaghastan where she assisted Dr. Alex Peters with providing medical help to pregnant women.  When danger arrived, Alex deployed skills no geek possesses and managed to get them back to the States along with newborn Dawn whom Katie delivered and carried home with her; though America’s illusion of haven proved false (see Close Pursuit).

While Alex was away for a year in training, his CIA handler Andre Fortinay warned Katie to have no expectations with her lover.  When Alex finally arrives at their DC home, Katie welcomes him back as her hero.  Soon afterward, Katie and Alex travel to Cuba to help hurricane victims.  However, his espionage past catches up to the two lovers.  When the CIA orders him to dump the woman he loves, Alex must choose between his heart which shouts he belongs with Katie and Dawn; and his training and tortured past which insist eliminate mission threats especially vulnerabilities like Katie and Dawn.

The latest Doctors Unlimited romantic suspense is a thrilling sequel starring a haunted hero who seems capable of doing anything except love, and a spunky female who refuses to quit on her anguished man.  Although lacking the unique profoundness of a war torn Zaghastan village (see Close Pursuit), the depth into Alex’s abnormal mental state filled with rage hooks the audience.  Readers wonder throughout whether Alex will allow his two beloveds to become expendable pawns; as the pressure from the CIA and his paternal Russian family amplifies with each side agreeing on one thing in the international game of deadly intrigue: dump the female albatrosses.

Harriet Klausner

No Strings Attached-Susan Anderson

No Strings Attached

Susan Anderson

Harlequin HQN, Jul 29 2014, $7.99

ISBN: 9780373778874

Seven years ago on Andros Island, Bahamas, Tasha Riordan and Diego shared a terrific tryst.  He told her he had to meet his boss but asked her to delay her flight home from Nassau for another day of sex, which she did as this trip was the highlight of her life.  A few hours later, Drug Enforcement Unit Inspector Rolle arrested Tasha for possession with the intent to sell as these next two days prove the lowlight of her life. 

In Razor Bay, Washington, running late for a going away party thrown for Gina, Bella T’s pizzeria owner Tasha enters the room only to see Diego “NoLastName” sitting at the table with the guest of honor’s daughter Harper and Max (see Some Like It Hot).  Stunned she drops the food and wine she brought to the gala.  Max’s brother Luc Bradshaw remembers his time with Tasha in the Bahamas as his greatest memory though he regretted leaving her behind due to a DEA undercover mission.  Now he wants a second chance but needs to know what happened because he believes she left him to go home on her scheduled flight; though she still wants him, she distrusts the man who left her lingering terrorized with fear in that hellhole Bahamian jail.

Putting aside the odds, the third Razor Bay Bradshaw brothers’ contemporary (see That Thing Called Love) is a diverting second chance drama in which “… the truth will set you free”, but in this case probably alone.  Luc and Tasha make for a fun romance as trust died in the Bahamas crippling their love.

 

Harriet Klausner

The Home Place-Carrie La Seur

The Home Place

Carrie La Seur

Morrow, Jul 29 2014, $25.95

ISBN: 9780062323446

On a freezing January night on the wrong side of the tracks in Billings, Montana, intoxicated Vicky walks the streets seeking to score pot from her ex Dennis.  An early riser finds her body three blocks from the Kozinsky house where she and her tweener daughter Brittany have lived paying the rent by the adult having sex with the owner. 

Vicky’s older sister Seattle lawyer Alma receives the call that her sibling died from exposure.  Having avoided for five years going home as she hates Billings the site of terrible memories, Alma plans to take care of business as fast as she can so she can return ASAP to Washington State.  Her biggest concern is for her eleven years old niece who needs a home, but she distrusts her volatile family even her big brother to take proper care of traumatized Brittany, mute since her mom died.  As remorseful Vicky learns more about her estrange sister’s death, she begins to wonder if the tragedy was not alcoholic induced but instead a homicide.

This is a perceptive Big Sky family drama in which readers obtain a profound look at what shaped the two sisters to go on such diverse paths after their parents died when they were young with Vicky's death serving as a conduit into a dysfunctional extended family.  Mindful of the frozen tundra in the movie Fargo, the stark Montana background enhances a strong saga with the only misstep being the “required” former boyfriend.

Harriet Klausner

Night Drop-Michael W. Sherer

Night Drop

Michael W. Sherer

Cutter Press, Sep 8 2014

ISBN 9780989274821

Two years ago, teenager Cole Sanders committed suicide.  Soon afterward, his grieving parents ended their marriage.  Whereas his mom Molly McHugh mourned her loss, she continued as a high powered lawyer at a big Seattle firm; while his dad Blake no longer could live in daylight so now delivers the Seattle Times at night and volunteers at a Suicide Prevention Center.

After returning home from a business trip in China, Molly calls Blake to admonish him for failing to water her plants as he promised.  However, shortly into the call Molly places Blake on hold to answer the door, but fails to return to the phone; someone abducts Molly.  Her law firm and the FBI believe the kidnappers’ motive is ransom; Blake disagrees believing some other unknown reason exists for the snatch.

At the same time Yousef leads a terrorist cell that forces former SEAL Macready the oceanographer to cooperate with their plot to use his dolphins to help move canisters filled with nuclear material or his captured woman will lose body parts.  Office of Naval Intelligence LTC Reyna Chase searches for Macready who vanished from the grid.  As Blake, Reyna, Macready, the Feds, the terrorists and their hostage converge, cities are at risk.

The third Blake Sanders thriller (see Night Tide and Night Blind) is an exhilarating drama that grips readers from the start even when the chessboard is being set and never slows down until the final confrontation.  Although for the most part the terrorists are Middle East stereotypes and Iron Mike is a legend at Fort Bragg, subgenre fans will root for ADD-eccentric Blake stepping out in daylight to try to save his former wife. 

Harriet Klausner

The Home Place-Carrie La Seur

The Home Place

Carrie La Seur

Morrow, Jul 29 2014, $25.95

ISBN: 9780062323446

On a freezing January night on the wrong side of the tracks in Billings, Montana, intoxicated Vicky walks the streets seeking to score pot from her ex Dennis.  An early riser finds her body three blocks from the Kozinsky house where she and her tweener daughter Brittany have lived paying the rent by the adult having sex with the owner. 

Vicky’s older sister Seattle lawyer Alma receives the call that her sibling died from exposure.  Having avoided for five years going home as she hates Billings the site of terrible memories, Alma plans to take care of business as fast as she can so she can return ASAP to Washington State.  Her biggest concern is for her eleven years old niece who needs a home, but she distrusts her volatile family even her big brother to take proper care of traumatized Brittany, mute since her mom died.  As remorseful Vicky learns more about her estrange sister’s death, she begins to wonder if the tragedy was not alcoholic induced but instead a homicide.

This is a perceptive Big Sky family drama in which readers obtain a profound look at what shaped the two sisters to go on such diverse paths after their parents died when they were young with Vicky's death serving as a conduit into a dysfunctional extended family.  Mindful of the frozen tundra in the movie Fargo, the stark Montana background enhances a strong saga with the only misstep being the “required” former boyfriend.

Harriet Klausner

Taken-Lora Leigh

Taken

Lora Leigh

St. Martin’s, Jul 22 2014, $14.99

ISBN: 9781250045454

“Reno’s Chance.”  Raven loves her best friend Morganna’s brother, but Reno treats her like another sister.  With Reno on leave, Raven decides this is the time to show him what she wants.

“For Maggie’s Sake.”  Grant fooled his wife Maggie and his SEAL friend Joe as part of the vicious Fuentes gang.  Joe believes Maggie who he loved but lost to Grant somehow is involved with this dangerous drug lord. He reassesses his belief when his Maggie is abducted.

“Atlanta Heat.”  Mason and Emerson are attracted to each other, but he refuses to act on his desire out of fear her godfather Admiral Holloran would fry certain body parts he cherishes.  A failed kidnapping brings the pair’s feelings out into the open.

“Night Hawk.” For three years Elite Ops agents “Black Jack” and “Night Hawk” have met clandestinely sharing no personal information.  This night is their last time together.

“Cooper’s Fall.” Former army ranger Ethan has the biggest boner of his life when he stares out his window like a pervert seeing virginal Sarah naked (except for nipple rings) masturbating; unaware he is the star of her sexual fantasies.  

“Sheila’s Passion.” Nick saw a lot of crap while in combat as a marine. Out of the service, Nick loves Sheila, but believes she sees him as a pal after being hurt recently by a former boyfriend. Sheila wants Nick to admit he passionately loves her.  The dynamics change when an adversary threatens Sheila.

These six reprinted erotica tales star “Real Men” (from Lora Leigh’s series) and females proving to be their equals.  Though the plots are thin, The Heat Is On (Glenn Frey) every page.

Harriet Klausner

Doghouse (A Gin & Tonic Mystery)-L.A. Kornetsky

Doghouse (A Gin & Tonic Mystery)

L.A. Kornetsky

Pocket Books, Jul 22 2014, $7.99

ISBN: 9781476750040

At Mary’s in Seattle’s Ballard neighborhood, private concierge Ginny Mallard and recently promoted bar manager Teddy Tonica have become friends.  Her shar-pei Georgie and his cat Penny (though everyone except him knows he is her pet) are also buddies.  Recently the quartet pawed their way through two “cases” (see Fixed and Collared) that proved dangerous.

However, both are shocked when Mary’s cantankerous old cook Seth grumbles in true snark form as only he can that he wants to hire them; he always warned them to stay away from inquiries since they are unlicensed amateurs.  Seth explains his old boxing buddy Deke Hoban took too many punches so is slow but nice.  Deke’s landlord Cooper plans to evict him based on the punch drunk former pugilist allowing dogs inside the house he leases; thus voiding the rental contract condition of no pets.  Pleading his case Seth insists Deke would never sponsor dogfighting as Cooper implies he did and claims his friend needs to stay in this place as the rent is cheap and he knows his way around there.  Finally Seth wants Gin and Tonic to find proof that the landlord is full of sh*t.  Though they know Deke needs a lawyer rather than two amateurs like them, because of Seth they look into the claim with surreptitiousness help from Georgie and stealth direction from field officer Penny.

The third Gin & Tonic “researchtigations” is an appealing anthropomorphist amateur sleuth enhanced by life in a cheerful neighborhood bar.  The lead humans and their animal owners remain fresh leads while the case proves bloody in the ring and the bar.

Harriet Klausner

Alone In The Classroom-Elizabeth Hay

Alone In The Classroom

Elizabeth Hay

Quercus, Aug 1 2014, $24.99

www.quercus.com

ISBN: 9781623651053

In 1937 Ontario, schoolgirl Ethel Wier picks berries.  Not long after she started, someone brutally murders her; leaving behind her battered body, two pails and berries.  The murder is identical to that of a killing almost a decade earlier in Saskatchewan.

In the present historian Anne Flood reads newspaper articles written by her aunt Connie the journalist.  In 1929, eighteen year old Connie Flood became a teacher in Saskatchewan.  Her principal Parley Burns takes a special interest in her as he seems to do with all the young females (staff and students) in the school.  Once a failed thespian and playwright, Parley loves the theater.  Not surprising, the principal directs Hardy’s classic Tess of the d'Urbervilles starring thirteen-year-old Susan Graves.  Like a Svengali to Susan’s Trilby (see Trilby by George du Maurier), he shapes the teen into what Parley believes is a star.  Meanwhile Connie recognizes that Susan’s older brother Michael is not a menacing retard, but instead an intelligent person who learns for some unknown reason differently than the norm.  As she works and encourages him, a tragedy forces a mass exit from the province.

In 1937 Ontario, Connie the reporter runs into Parley just after Ethel’s vicious homicide.  She realizes raging martinet Parley had opportunity in both cases, but lacks substantive evidence to accuse him.

This enthralling twentieth century murder epic is not an easy read with switching time periods and an absorbing point of view.  Character driven by a deep cast (to include the narrator), readers will believe we were transported to the Depression Era Canadian Plains as Elizabeth Hay provides a compelling literary mystery.

Harriet Klausner

Jaspar’s War-Cym Lowell

Jaspar’s War

Cym Lowell

Rosemary Beach Press LLC, Mar 1 2014, $12.99

www.rosemarybeach.com

ISBN: 9780991491308

Trevor Moran was the star quarterback when Notre Dame won the national championship game.  He became a success at Wall St. and with his beloved wife Jaspar raises two tweeners (Theo and Chrissy) in Greenwich, Connecticut.  When the economy collapsed, the President appointed Trevor as the Treasury Secretary to begin saving the country and the world from the worst downturn since the Great Depression. 

While Trevor is in Europe trying to persuade reluctant leaders to spend money on stimulus packages, Jaspar watches her kids playing baseball.  After the game, Jaspar turns frantic when she cannot find her children in spite of tight security.  At the same FBI Agent McGuire informs Jaspar that Trevor’s flight home from London crashed in the ocean near Iceland.  A text message from Trevor arrives informing her that her spouse is shark food and her kids will join him as ocean waste if she does not shut up re the stimulus package.  Not one to back down and willing to do anything and ally with the worst dregs of society, Jaspar begins a quest to rescue her children from those who plot to destroy the United States. 

Over the top of the Burj Khalifa, Jaspar’s War is an action-packed pulp fiction thriller that grips the audience from the moment the Mama Grizzly hunts for those who abducted her cubs and assassinated her mate.  Action-packed, readers will root for the heroine to kick ass as Cym Lowell provides readers with an entertaining tale.  Note that 100% of the proceeds from this saga go to Operation: Next Chapter to help wounded warriors stay connected through the Soldiers’ Angels Project: Valour-IT.

Harriet Klausner

The Game And The Governess-Kate Noble

The Game And The Governess

Kate Noble

Pocket, Jul 22 2014, $7.99

ISBN: 9781476749389

In 1822 “Lucky Ned” Ashby has become pompous and conceited ever since he became the earl several years earlier due to several untimely deaths.  He hires his war friend John Turner as his secretary.  However, their third pal Dr. Rhys Gray notices a strain between them probably caused by the changing of their relationship since Turner was Ashby’s superior officer while fighting Napoleon.  After an argument over whether women consider wealth when selecting a man, Ned and John make a bet.  Ned will pretend to be John the secretary while John will be Ned the earl.  As John, Ned must persuade Phoebe Baker to want him as working class Mr. Turner.

Five years earlier, then seventeen year old Phoebe’s circumstances collapsed due to the inaction of the Earl of Ashby who chose to protect his lofty name and reputation rather than take down scoundrel Mr. Sharp; her father died and all she could hope for was becoming a governess.  Ned begins his campaign to win Phoebe’s heart, but she seems uninterested in him as her goal remains moving to America.  As he falls in love, Ned learns firsthand the downside of England.  His biggest fear is that his good luck may have run out when it comes to Phoebe who loathes the Earl of Ashby.

Though historical romance wagers are not new (see His By Christmas by Kaitlin O'Riley), Kate Noble refreshes the concept due to Ned’s coming of age maturation into a caring person rather than vacuous “Lucky Ned”.  As he finds out what life is like for non-aristocrats; ironically the romance begins later than usual yet the brave heroine steals this fun Regency from the three betters.

Harriet Klausner

Atonement of Blood-Peter Tremayne

Atonement of Blood

Peter Tremayne

Minotaur Books, Jul 22 2014, $26.99

ISBN: 9781250046000

In 670 AD at Cashel, to honor the blessed Colmán mac Lénine, Muman King Colgú hosts a gala.  Among those attending are his sister dalaigh law courts advocate Fidelma and her husband Brother Eadulf.  The couple plan to spend quality time with their son Alchú who resides at his uncle’s castle while his parents traveled to conduct investigations.

During the feast, a religieux guest Brother Lennan of Mungairit Abbey fervently screams “Remember Liamuin” as he stabs the monarch in the chest before killing brave Brehan Aedo who jumped between the assassin and the ruler.  Commander of the King’s Bodyguard Caol kills the murderer.  As gravely injured Colgú fights for his life, Fidelma investigates the attempted regicide and homicide.  Her only useful clues from the deadly gala are the fanatic’s final reiterated diatribe and the abbey located inside of rebellious Ui Fidgente; where many oppose the merging of the Five Kingdoms under Colgú. 

The 24^th Mystery of Ancient Ireland Sister Fidelma mystery (see The Seventh Trumpet and Behold a Pale Horse) is a fascinating whodunit as the sleuthing couple risks their lives to follow the clues into hostile territory.  Fidelma is at her best interviewing, watching and drawing conclusions that a seditious conspiracy threatens the Five-Kingdom alliance; while also praying for her sibling. 

Harriet Klausner

Taken-Lora Leigh

Taken

Lora Leigh

St. Martin’s, Jul 22 2014, $14.99

ISBN: 9781250045454

“Reno’s Chance.”  Raven loves her best friend Morganna’s brother, but Reno treats her like another sister.  With Reno on leave, Raven decides this is the time to show him what she wants.

“For Maggie’s Sake.”  Grant fooled his wife Maggie and his SEAL friend Joe as part of the vicious Fuentes gang.  Joe believes Maggie who he loved but lost to Grant somehow is involved with this dangerous drug lord. He reassesses his belief when his Maggie is abducted.

“Atlanta Heat.”  Mason and Emerson are attracted to each other, but he refuses to act on his desire out of fear her godfather Admiral Holloran would fry certain body parts he cherishes.  A failed kidnapping brings the pair’s feelings out into the open.

“Night Hawk.” For three years Elite Ops agents “Black Jack” and “Night Hawk” have met clandestinely sharing no personal information.  This night is their last time together.

“Cooper’s Fall.” Former army ranger Ethan has the biggest boner of his life when he stares out his window like a pervert seeing virginal Sarah naked (except for nipple rings) masturbating; unaware he is the star of her sexual fantasies.  

“Sheila’s Passion.” Nick saw a lot of crap while in combat as a marine. Out of the service, Nick loves Sheila, but believes she sees him as a pal after being hurt recently by a former boyfriend. Sheila wants Nick to admit he passionately loves her.  The dynamics change when an adversary threatens Sheila.

These six reprinted erotica tales star “Real Men” (from Lora Leigh’s series) and females proving to be their equals.  Though the plots are thin, The Heat Is On (Glenn Frey) every page.

Harriet Klausner

Ice Shear-M. P. Cooley

Ice Shear

M. P. Cooley

Morrow, Jul 22 2014, $25.99

ISBN 9780062300706

Though she loved being an FBI agent, June Lyons quit the Feds when the doctor told her that her husband Kevin was dying from cancer.  She took a job in her hometown Hopewell Falls Police Department to spend time caring for her spouse and raising their young daughter Lucy with help from her father, the retired town police chief.

Now a widow living in her Upstate New York childhood home with her six years old child and her dad, June patrols at night.  However, her former law enforcement world crashes with her current one when June finds the corpse of Danielle Brouillette, daughter of a US Congresswoman, spiked onto a chunk of ice protruding from the frozen Mohawk River.  The newlywed had married Marty Jelickson, the son of the Abominations motorcycle gang enforcer.  Her Hopewell PD peers already scorned June as a failed outsider; but their resentment explodes when a former FBI associate Agent Hale Bascom deputizes her.  The discovery of a Meth lab complicates the convoluted investigation as does a biker’s homicide.

This regional police procedural is an electrifying investigative tale starring an interesting single mom forced to straddle two diverse law enforcement plateaus in which she has been part of both.  Although there are too many support players requiring readers needing a roster to keep score; filled with twists, blue penis envy and held together by a fully developed intriguing heroine, fans will want to tour Hopewell Junction with June as our guide.

Harriet Klausner

Remains of Innocence- J. A. Jance

Remains of Innocence

J. A. Jance

Morrow, Aug 12 2014, $26.99

ISBN: 9780062134707

A decade ago in Great Barrington, Massachusetts, Liza Machett graduated high school and left home to escape the abuse of her insane mother.  Now her mother is dying so Liza reluctantly ends their estrangement.  Her mother asks Liza to bring her a cookbook from the house.  Inside Liza disgustingly sees her childhood home even more cluttered and filthier than when she grew up, which says a lot.  She also finds 1,470 $100 bills stashed inside of cookbooks.  As she wonders how her mom accumulated $147,000, Liza plans to use the windfall to clean up the house in order to put it on the market; unaware of the deadly danger to her and others unfortunately in her sphere that her endeavor will trigger.  When she finally realizes the peril, Liza disguised as a cancer and abuse victim sneaks off to Arizona to locate and discuss the situation with her older half-brother, Cochise County M.E. Dr. Guy Machett who left home for Harvard when she was a young teen and never returned.

Cochise County Sheriff Joanna Brady and her team search for a missing developmentally disabled sexagenarian.  They find Junior Dowdle’s corpse among a “graveyard” of mutilated animals in a cave.  Meanwhile Liza’s current and past Massachusetts troubles follow her to Arizona.

The latest super Sheriff Brady police procedural (see Judgment Call, and Fire And Ice) is a tremendous entry as the cop works two complex cases that have no obvious ties.  The fast-paced Remains of Innocence is a fascinating mystery that grips the audience from the moment Liza enters her childhood home and never slows down as homicide investigations in two states diagonally across the country keep the audience spellbound.

Harriet Klausner

Riding Home-Vicki Lewis Thompson

Riding Home

Vicki Lewis Thompson

Harlequin Blaze, Jul 15 2014, $5.50

ISBN: 9780373798117

Filled with guilt over cheating on her then fiancé Regan O’Connelli (Riding High) with his veterinary partner Drake Brewster (see Riding Hard), Jeannette Trenton follows the pair to Shoshone in the Jackson Hole area of Wyoming to atone for her transgression.  She hopes everyone at Last Chance gives her a chance to prove she is more than a Jezebel who admits she made a terrible mistake, but Jeannette also sees the stares paint her as an amoral loose woman.

When Jeannette and cowboy Zach Powell meet, each feels a deep attraction.  Though filled with remorse, she no longer wants forgiveness from her former fiancé, her lover or the Chance extended family except for Zach.  As the fallen female and the former attorney turned cowhand fall in love, Jeannette remains under the microscope of condemnation, but no longer cares how others feel about her except for her Zach.

The latest Sons of Chance romance is a brisk Wyoming ranch contemporary.  Although Drake had an easier path to local acceptance than Jeannette faces (sexism rides high and hard), this likable entry is the best of the Virginia triangle trilogy.

Harriet Klausner

Dare Me- Jo Leigh

Dare Me

Jo Leigh

Harlequin Blaze, Jul 15 2014, $5.50

ISBN: 9780373798124

In New York City, wine connoisseur Molly Grainger has no time to foster a normal long-term relationship as she works diligently long hours to be the best at her vocation.  Thus she has no one to escort her to critical events in which she knows she would be more acceptable with a hunk on her arm if she is to make it.  Molly turns to the underground Trading Card dating service for a companion; she selects brew master Cameron Crawford.

They agree to a dinner date, but instead of a one night as each advocate, Cameron and Molly begin seeing each other.  As they fall in love, neither is comfortable with their feelings as both fears a committed relationship will interfere with each of their particular occupations and devastate their single regiment that enhances their respective profession.

The latest It's Trading Men (see Seduce Me, Choose Me, Have Me and Want Me) romance is a delightful contemporary as the amiable protagonists dread the L word.  Although the premise is not new Jo Leigh brews a splendid Manhattan love story.

Harriet Klausner

Blood Ties In Chef Voleur-Mallory Kane

Blood Ties In Chef Voleur

Mallory Kane

Harlequin Intrigue, Jul 15 2014, $5.50

ISBN: 9780373697816

Four older brothers assisted by male cousins suffocate Cara Lynn Delancey with their testosterone fueled protectiveness.  So when Jack Bush courted her and offered her love, she eloped with him.

One month later, Jack is elated as the first stage of his mission proved successful when he married Cara Lynn to get easy entrance to the Delancey clan.  His objective is to complete his late grandfather Armand Broussard’s dying request: “Clear My Name.”  Two decades ago, Armand was convicted of murdering his employer Cara Lynn’s grandfather Con Delancey; the convict went to his grave insisting he was innocent and his grandson believes him.  Jack’s plan works perfect except for one minor problem: he loves his wife.

The latest Delancey Dynasty romantic suspense (see Sanctuary In Chef Voleur) is a superb thriller with what happened between the late grandfathers serving as a most likely match-breaker.  A fast-paced mystery as much as a relationship drama built on a foundation of lies, Mallory Kane provides a tense tale as two descendants twenty years after the murder of Con Delancey allegedly by convicted Armand Broussard fall in love.

Harriet Klausner

From Maverick To Daddy-Teresa Southwick

From Maverick To Daddy

Teresa Southwick

Harlequin Special Edition, Jul 15 2014, $5.50

ISBN: 9780373658299

In Rust Creek Falls, Montana, rancher Caleb Dalton visits his lawyer dad Ben to take him out for a beer at Ace in the Hole; only the eight years old Asian “receptionist” insists he wait since he has no appointment.  Ben’s paralegal Mallory Franklin comes into the waiting room and apologizes for her orphaned niece Lily keeping Caleb waiting to see his dad.  Manhattan transfer Mallory and Ben discuss why they have not met before as they obviously travel in different circles.  Before the two Dalton males leave, Lily informs Caleb that Mallory needs a husband, preferably a cowboy who can teach her to ride a horse.

As his family welcomes the two females and they are especially kind to Lily, Caleb becomes the little girl’s favorite cowboy.  As Caleb and Mallory fall in love, he panics over his feelings for the guardian and her waif; but like Mallory accepts Lily’s needs come before their desires.

This Montana Mavericks: Twenty Years In The Saddle romance is a warm contemporary starring two people with different needs falling in love.  Although Lily is too precocious, her antics make for a pleasant Montana Mavericks Cowboys (see The Maverick's Christmas Homecoming) family drama.

Harriet Klausner

Bridegroom Bodyguard-Lisa Childs

Bridegroom Bodyguard

Lisa Childs

Harlequin Intrigue, Jul 15 2014, $5.50

ISBN: 9780373697786

In the hospital where he was best man at his twin Logan’s wedding (see Explosive Engagement), Payne Protection Agency bodyguard Parker Payne knows someone put out a hit on him.  He realizes he was fortunate to avoid the explosion that killed two family men PPA operatives in an SUV he was supposed to be in.  Logan talks to his in-laws the Kozminskis how to keep his new bride Stacy and his brother Logan safe.  Their younger brother Cooper (see Groom Under Fire) cuts short his honeymoon to protect Parker who tells his siblings to leave with their wives in order to keep them away from harm as he is the danger magnet.

Judge Brenda Foster ordered her law clerk Sharon Wells to stay off the grid and keep her nine month old son Ethan safe before she vanished.  Two weeks later, Sharon arrives at the hospital to introduce Ethan to his father Parker Payne.  Disbelieving Parker becomes concerned when Sharon’s car blows up in the parking lot, but DNA proves he is a dad and she informs him who the mom is.  He takes Sharon and his son to safety even marrying her to protect her; but that unknown assailant with connections and money seems always to be at least two steps ahead of them.

The latest Shotgun Weddings is a satisfying romantic suspense that hooks readers from the opening hospital scene (that will remind readers of Groucho’s cabin in A Night At The Opera) as the extended Payne family rally around the endangered trio.  Readers will receive plenty of delight from this action-packed tale with a neat twist as The Bridegroom Bodyguard risks his life to keep his beloved new family safe.

Harriet Klausner

To Kill A Matzo Ball-Delia Rosen

To Kill A Matzo Ball

Delia Rosen

Kensington, Jul 1 2014, $7.99

ISBN: 9780758282019

In Nashville, Gwen Katz consults with client martial arts teacher Ken Chan on a menu to honor his students following a belt test.  Shots are fired into Murray’s Pastrami Swami leaving Ken dead, but not before he protected Gwen with his body; no one else inside the deli was badly hurt though all are shook up.  A former New Yorker, Gwen tells NPD that Ken also came from the Big Apple, but left Manhattan’s Chinatown after Triad gang threats.

NPD reports the crime to the FBI who joins the investigation.  However, increasingly the murderous drive-by shooting begins to look as if the intended victim was not the black belt instructor but the “Nashville Katz”.  Not one to sit around and wait for a second assault, Gwen begins her own inquiry.

The latest Deadly Deli Mystery is an engaging twisting whodunit as the amateur sleuth competes with several levels of law enforcement.  As always with this entertaining series (see From Herring to Eternity, A Killer in the Rye, One Foot in the Gravy and A Brisket, A Casket), the fun comes from the culture clash of New York shtick in the heart of Music City more so than the good mystery and enhanced by mouthwatering food that has me craving for pastrami and a knish at The Kosher Gourmet on Atlanta’s Northside. 

Harriet Klausner

Wayfaring Stranger-James Lee Burke

Wayfaring Stranger

James Lee Burke

Simon & Schuster, Jul 15 2014, $27.95

ISBN: 9781476710792

In 1934 at his Grandfather Hackberry Holland’s East Texas ranch teenager Weldon Avery Holland meets Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow and two other people just after the bank robbers flee from their latest armed theft.  Their encounter ends with Holland attracted to Bonnie and his shooting at the four thieves driving away in their stolen vehicle.

A decade later at the Battle of the Bulge US Army Second Lieutenant Weldon Holland and Sergeant Hershel Pine are trapped behind enemy lines.  They survive and find Spanish resistance soldier Rosita Lowenstein hiding in an abandoned extermination plant.  When the war ends, Weldon and Lowenstein marry.  They and Hershel return home to Texas where they open up Dixie Belle Pipeline Company based on Nazi technology and the latter weds Linda Gail.  However, not all is smooth as unscrupulous investors using any means including amoral and illegal endeavors at their disposal want to control the successful firm and anti-Semites mount a malicious campaign to destroy Rosita.

Wayfaring Stranger is a superb mid-twentieth century historical that looks deeply at the ugly rapacious side of capitalism during an era of innocence in spite of the Depression and WWII; and realism that money flows up and sh*t trickles down.  Character driven by a strong cast, readers will root for ethical Weldon as he and his loved ones confront morally-challenged marauders who hide behind laws that they established to enhance their money begets money avarice; summed up by Jesse Ventura when he was a wrestler: “Win if you can, lose if you must, but always cheat!”

Harriet Klausner\

Sight Unseen-Iris Johansen & Roy Johansen

Sight Unseen

Iris Johansen & Roy Johansen

St. Martin’s, Jul 15 2014, $27.99

ISBN: 9781250020529

In the greater San Diego area, a serial killer has murdered at least six people in the last month and half.  Autopsies revealed that each of the bodies contained the same unidentified substance.  After investigator Jeff Stedler vanishes, the FBI consults with music therapist Dr. Kendra Michaels, who has been very helpful on other difficult cases due to her extraordinary sensory skills; she was born blind so honed her four other senses to an exceptional level though surgery at twenty gave her sight.

Kendra soon realizes she has a psychopathic fan whose killings pay homage to her most famous cases; but also fears she knows the culprit.  This “artist” rejoices that the cherished role model has joined the investigation as this killer plots for the student to surpass the teacher by murdering her.

The second Kendra Michaels FBI procedural (see Close Your Eyes) is a fabulous whodunit starring an in your face abrasive Shirley Holmes with skills mindful of Daredevil and tact mindful of a raging Wolverine.  The key support cast is fully developed especially her teammate (very loose definition) Adam Lynch and the killer as Johansen provides a tense suspense.

Harriet Klausner

Elective Procedures-Merry Jones

Elective Procedures

Merry Jones

Oceanview, Jul 15 2014, $26.95

ISBN 9781608091164

Four American friends travel to Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico where one of them Jen plans to have elective surgery.  However, another member of the foursome, Elle fails to save next door Claudia from falling from the posh hotel’s sixth floor balcony to her death.  Police Sergeant Perez suspects Elle may have pushed the victim; while her three amigas (Jen, Becky and Sue) rally around her. 

When the unknown killer slices up another female guest Inez in what looks like a crime of angry passion in that same room, Elle fears more will follow.  As she still struggles with her late husband’s appearances, Elle feels distracted by Dr. Du Bois and an inability to “see” the killer who targets her.

The second Elle Harrison paranormal amateur sleuth (see The Trouble with Charlie) is an enjoyable whodunit as the Mexican vacation proves strenuous and perilous for the heroine and her BFFs.  The fast-paced investigative storyline delivers mostly because Elle deals poorly with identifying and dodging a determined killer, caring bickering friends, suspicious (of her) cops, unwanted visiting ghosts, and an unsure romance.

Harriet Klausner

Sisters Of Treason-Elizabeth Fremantle

Sisters Of Treason

Elizabeth Fremantle

Simon & Schuster, Jul 8 2014, $25.99

ISBN: 9781476703091

In 1553, teenage Jane Grey became Queen of England with the death of King Edward VI, who selected her as his successor instead of his Catholic sister Mary. Nine days later, Mary overthrows Queen Jane and locks her in the Tower.  In 1554 Queen Mary beheads Jane.

Jane’s worried mother Frances rusticates since her two living daughters (Katherine and Mary) have legitimate claims to the English throne; but neither daughter pursues it out of fear of being publicly executed by bloody Queen Mary.  Instead each is cautious at court though flirty Katherine less so.  Meanwhile royal painter Levina Teerlinc tries to guide the sisters from stepping into an unintended brouhaha.  When Elizabeth replaces her late sister on the throne, the Grey siblings feel safer to follow love, but fail to comprehend their monarch’s wrath for not obtaining her approval.

The latest Elizabeth Fremantle’s Tudor biographical fiction (see Queen’s Gambit) brings an intriguing freshness through the cautious eyes of the late Lady Jane Grey’s two younger sisters and the artist trying to help them keep their heads.  Rotating perspective between the sisters and the painter, subgenre readers will gain much pleasure from this strong look at an era of cutthroat female power.  A bibliography is included, of which I suggest The Sisters Who Would Be Queen by Leanda de Lisle (in fairness the only one I read) for those seeking nonfiction insight.

Harriet Klausner

Clockwork Dagger-Beth Cato

Clockwork Dagger

Beth Cato

Harper Voyager, Sep 16 2014, $14.99

ISBN: 9780062313843

In the kingdom of Caskentia where war with the Waste is a constant, orphaned healer Octavia Leander rides the airship to her new position of medician knowing to adhere to her mentor Miss Percival’s three rules of travel.  However, someone assaults her onboard roommate Mrs. Stout and almost immediately afterward Octavia.  Mrs. Viola Stout and Alonzo Garrett the steward help her thwart the attempt to kill her.

Confused over why anyone would stalk a non like her, Octavia learns the kingdom and the breakaway Dallows Province have placed her in the middle of a rebellion though she wonders why her.  Other violent incidents including murder occur in which Octavia survives more efforts to assassinate her as if she was important; while now also questioning who her two defenders truly are.

Clockwork Dagger is a great steampunk fantasy starring a tremendous bewildered heroine who holds the storyline focused.  Fast-paced and filled with action and dangerous intrigue (readers will think twice before riding an airship) yet with a strong support cast inside the vivid Cato magical world, subgenre fans will relish Octavia’s opening act while wanting more of her misadventures in Caskentia.

Harriet Klausner 

The Resurrectionist-Sierra Woods

The Resurrectionist

Sierra Woods

Harlequin Nocturne, Jul 1 2014, $5.75

ISBN: 9780373886005

In Albuquerque, Dani Wright the resurrectionist understands her job is to right wrong though sometimes morality can confuse which is which.  Three years ago her husband Blake’s lover attacked her and cut out her unborn from her womb; she and her baby died, but the Other-siders sent her back to perform the miracles of a resurrectionist.  Though attracted to her APD protector Detective Sam Lopez, she distrusts males ever since Blake’s betrayal left her and their child dead; so she refuses to act on her desire.

After working the Ramirez missing child case, her otherworld contact Burton the street skateboarder a-hole informs her that the Others worry that the Dark malevolence is arising after centuries of dormancy.  Meanwhile Sam always has her back and even supplements her power on a difficult switch.  He admits to Dani he likes her a lot and that his grandmother was an underground illegal resurrectionist.  As the couple gets closer and falls in love, the Dark comes for Dani.

This is an entertaining urban fantasy noir.  Filled with graveyard humor and a slowly developing romance (which seems right for this fun thriller), readers will believe in Sierra Woods portrayal of The Resurrectionist bringing the enlightenment to New Mexico.

Harriet Klausner