The Reluctant Bride

The Reluctant Bride
Joan Smith
Robert Hale London, publisher
ISBN 978-7090-7294-8
£18.99

Miss Elizabeth Braden, known as Lizzie to her family and intimates, was very content to remain a spinster living with her Aunt Maisie at the family home of Westgate. She enjoyed running the estate and managing the house for her brother Jeremy, who was a scholar at Oxford. Unfortunately, the estate was not doing well and as Jeremy’s fees were due soon, as well as many household accounts outstanding, Lizzie decided she had no choice but to sell the diamond necklace she had inherited. The necklace had been much admired by her uncle Mr Weston Braden, who had at one time offered five thousand pounds for it. Reluctantly, she must now sell to him if he still wants it.

Lizzie keeps the diamonds close to her as she journeys to her uncle’s home. Unfortunately, circumstances overcame them and they had an accident with Sir Edmund blunt. When the loss of her necklace was discovered, Sir Edmund offers to help, because he is at fault; though he railed her for carrying such valuable items. She thinks he is the most objectionable man she has met but accepts his help.

With many scrapes and adventures yet to come, will Lizzie revise her opinion of sir Edmund and will the diamonds be recovered? Will Lizzie find romance and happiness? Read this Regency tale with a twist and find out. An interesting story with a difference. I award this Regency Romance 4.5. red roses. AS

Far After Gold

Far After Gold by Jen Black



Publisher: Lightning Source



ISBN: 978-1-906836-03-0



2009



Pages: 192







Emer thought it was just another day. Deciding to take a walk along the beach by her village, she gets the first shock of many to come. Not paying attention to what was around her as her village hasn’t had any trouble in years she is surprised to find herself suddenly a prisoner of Vikings. Kidnapped and wondering if she will ever be able to see her family again she plots ways to escape the Vikings and return to her home.



Flane has no plans on buying a slave until he finds one that stands out in the slave pen. Flane first sees Emer as she is trying to hide behind other slaves so that she won’t be noticed. Flane takes one look at Emer and knows he has to buy her.



Flane takes Emer home with him only to find out that he has problems he never planned on. Flane never figured Katla would have a problem with him having a slave, though he never counted on her trying to control him and use their engagement as a way to do it. Now Flane is finding out things about Katla that he didn’t know and making him reconsider what he really wants in life.



Emer has to depend on Flane for protection and not just from Katla. Trying to get home is becoming more difficult by the day. Emer is also starting to wonder if she really wants to go home and never see Flane again. Flane and Emer are going to have to make some choices whether they want to or not.



This book takes you back in time to the era of Vikings. It brings the time period to life and the characters are described so vividly that you feel you get to know them as you read. This is a book that is worth reading. You get to take a wonderful trip back in time and live in the times of Vikings.





I give this one 4-1/2 red roses.

The Dashing Miss Fairbanks

THE DASHING MISS FAIRCHILD

BY EMILY HENDRICKSON.

PUBLISHED BY ROBERT HALE LONDON,

ISBN978-0-7090-8283-5





Miss Claire Fairchild was on her way to Bath and was trying to enjoy the scenery while lending half an ear to the constant chatter of her companion, Miss Venetia Goodwin.

Claire had escaped from the home of her sister and her children and was
intent on setting up her own establishment in Bath, much to the annoyance of her faithful abigail, Priddy. But with the company of Miss Godwin, Claire was convinced that all would be in order for her to do so. She was, after all, past twenty-three, very rich and very beautiful, so she had often been told. Probably past the age to marry, so why shouldn't she start to please herself?

London had grown hot and wearying and she longed for the freedom that an establishment of her own would, she hoped, give her. While still keeping up appearances, by having the companionship of a lady such as Miss Goodwin. But she was already tiring of hearing this Lady prattle on; she hoped that she would not regret her decision.

They were to stop at the Castle Inn in Marlborough for the night, where they would meet Miss Fairchild's agent, Mr Popham, who would it was hoped, have details of the perfect house for her to hire for the season, in Bath.

The business with Mr Popham had been very successful and the house he had found for her was eminently suitable, so Claire was looking forward to the
final part of their journey. A peaceful night was spent at the hotel and
when they had had their breakfast Claire and her companion, made their way to her coach. Once inside she realised that where Priddy was to have sat there was a large basket, which she did not recognise. She peeped inside and to her amazement a very healthy baby looked back at her.

After making enquiries at the hotel and sending servants to ask other
travellers, Claire soon realised that no mistake had been made; the baby had been placed in her coach deliberately. Claire thought long and hard but could think of no reason why the baby had been abandoned into her charge.

Eventually they arrived in Bath just one day late, after more fruitless
enquiries around the hotel. And also by engaging a young girl from the
hotel, who had recently lost her own baby, as a wet nurse to tend to young William until his rightful family could be found.

When getting out of the carriage in Bath Claire was seen holding the baby by a notorious gossip, Mrs Robottom, who lost no time in spreading the news that Miss Fairchild had arrived in Bath with an infant and no male partner.

Claire's life was to be greatly affected by this malicious gossip. Claire
felt there was something rather sinister about young William's sudden
arrival in her life, and she was worried for his sake as well as her own.

Later when she meets an old acquaintance, while walking in the park with the baby, she relates to him the strange story and he offers to help her solve the mystery. Claire is grateful and realises that she is still
attracted to Lord Richard Talbot.

This Regency romance is a good read being a little different from the normal romance. Will Claire's reputation survive the gossipmonger's tales, will little William be restored to his rightful family and will Claire find romance and happiness. It will be fun finding out the answers in this
delightful Regency romance I award this book 4.5 Red Roses AS.

>

Clara's Eastern Delight

Clareta King
Clara’s Eastern delight
Red Rose Publishing
Ebook 68 pages.

Clara Jacobs has been asked to ghost-write for Crown Prince Hakeem Shafiq ibn al-Bashir. Clara writes romances and this is new to her but she is excited by the idea. Despite her agent’s misgivings, Clara is determined to go, if only for the chance of new experiences.

Clara is a little surprised by the luxury she is offered, but much more is in store. When she finally meets the prince he is handsome, his warm hazel eyes making the blood rush to her cheeks. Just what is he thinking? And why did he choose her to do his story above all others?

Find out by reading this love story. This author is new to the Red Rose Publishing list but will surely find her niche here amongst the excellent romance writers at the house. It is enjoyable and sexy but not erotic. 4.5 red roses. Morna.

Coming soon from Red Rose Publishing

Dark Ancient Queen

Dark Ancient Queen
Amirapress.com
ebook



Ally is a photographer and good at her job. She is in Paris when she hears that her sister has had an accident, and when she returns home Ally goes to her sister’s apartment. She mourns her death, but gradually she begins to realize that the car accident might not have been just an accident but something far more sinister. How long before she begins to understand that the beautiful Egyptian necklace sent to her sister may be the key to a larger mystery, and why does she feel as if her mind is being taken over by a dark ancient queen? Is what she is feeling for Jack Brendan, the new man in her life, real--or merely fantasy.

This is the blurb for the sexy new book by Anne Ireland. A tale of sorcery, sexual powers and the influence of an ancient Egyptian queen colour this enthralling book. I found the way in which Ally was gradually sucked into the past by the mesmeric powers of the queen fascinating and thoroughly enjoyed this time slip novel.

Anne Ireland has written a hot sexy book and it is recommended. 4.5 red roses. RN

Midwinter Marriage

Sarah Stanley
Midwinter Ball
Robert Hale Ltd
ISBN 978-0-7090-8396-2
£18.99

Beth Temaine is taken from the ball, where she is about to become engaged to Landry Haldane, a story told in a previous book by this author. Sir Guy Valmer needs Beth to be his wife if he is ever to regain the estate stolen from his father by Beth's father in a game of cards. The two have history for Beth has had a colourful past and their paths crossed more than once. She loves Guy with all her heart, but believing that he intends marriage merely for the sake of the estate she attempts to be cold towards him.

Their marriage does not start well but after a while, Beth is forced to confess her love and they are truly man and wife. Unfortunately, Beth's past catches up and in his jealousy, Guy believes the child she bears is another man's.

Can the two find happiness together or are they doomed to find only despair?

This is a period sage, encompassing other lives and stories, though Beth and Guy are the main characters. A skillful, sensual book, which I enjoyed with good description and period background. 4.5 red roses, Morna

Interview With Clareta King

Tell us a little about yourself
Well, what do you want to know? LOL :-)
I am a woman, single and consciously enjoy life as much as possible. I love travelling overseas meeting new people and learning about different cultures.
I work full time in the global banking industry and very much enjoy my work. A keen triathlete, I take part in triathlons around England as a licensed triathlete at least twice a year.

I come from a large family and live in the UK. My family are spread out from living in various London cities in England; Toronto, Canada; Florida and New York, USA to various parts of the Caribbean.

I am a bit of a dreamer, hence why I write. I would love to be recognised as a respected author one day. Believe me, I am working on it. My first book, 'Out of Her League.' I self-published in 2007. It is a contemporary romance novel. My second book 'Clara's Eastern Delight,' has been contracted by Red Rose Publishing (RRP). Hopefully, I am on the right road. It's hard work though. I admire quality authors, regardless of whether or not they are best-sellers and known globally. There are many talented and successful authors around and I my aim is to be noted among them one day.


What do you write?
Stories based on love and romance between a man and a woman and how their lives and every step they take lead them to each other in and amongst their daily pursuits.

Why do you write?
I enjoy being creative, making up scenes and stories in my mind. Writing is very relaxing and soothing and I find that the more I write, I get lost in my own world and literally shut out the outside world. I get very involved to the extent that in my mind, my characters are real people going through the trials and tribulations of life. My characters are meaningful, entertaining, annoying, witty, strong, weak, respectable and I totally enjoy creating, shaping and having them around to write about.


What are you writing now?
A short story entitled Saskia's Prize for the RRP Desert Rose line.

What kind of clothes do you like to wear?
During the evenings and at weekends I wear comfortable sports gear (jogging pants and tops) as I am a keen triathlete and love the feeling of freedom when wearing sports gear.

I wear smart suits to smart casual wear for the office.

Very elegant dresses, beautiful shoes and purses including gorgeous perfumes when I attend cocktail parties, theatre etc.

Are you in love? Have you ever been?

Not in love with anyone at present.
Yes, it was fantastic while it lasted.

Do you have a dream lover – and what does he or she look like?
A handsome young Arabian prince look-a-like.

What kind of comfort food do you like best?
Protein balls and raw cashew kernels. They are healthy and delicious.

What makes you laugh? Cry?
Laugh?
Funny jokes, of course, comedy, whether or not they are read, told, heard or watched. Being tickled. Funny dancing, pulling of faces and general clowning around.
Cry?

Cruelty against children - this really affects me deeply.

What do you do to amuse yourself when not working?
When I am relaxing, I love listening to all types of music whilst reading a good novel.
When I am active I totally adore doing Bikram Yoga. I also love swimming in natural lakes and ponds in the English countryside in Windsor, Berkshire and in the ponds in Hampstead, London.


What is it in a man or woman that turns you on? The clean version please!
A mutual and passionate love for each other, caring, nurturing, lead-up and fore-play before making love, the meeting of the minds, dreams and desires. Physically, soft, warm and smooth skin, skin that's scented with captivating cologne and
perfume. I love to listen to a nice and sensuous voice. Good dancing turns me on too



What do you hate about life?
Man's evil toward man

Jeremiah 17:9
“The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked; Who can know it?"

Proverbs 25:2
It is the glory of God to conceal a thing, heaven for its height and the earth for its depth, but man's heart is unsearchable

What do you hope to achieve in life and when will you know that you have been a success?
I would hope to continue to be a success and to be remembered as a success in my death when I am remembered as the person who had done as much good deeds for as many people as possible; lived my entire life without cause of any detriment to another person; to have loved all people unconditionally and to be an ambassador for peace in life now and in death.

What are you going to write next?
I am in the process of writing two books, one is another novel for the RRP Desert Rose line, which is nearing completion, entitled Saskia's Prize and the other is a contemporary romance which I have started.



http://redrosepublishing.com/bookstore/product_info.php?products_id=418

Featured Author Linda Sole

CASSIE'S SHEIKH
Desert Rose Anthology
Linda Sole

Mainstream Romance: Contemporary, Interracial/Multicultural, Action/Adventure
ISBN: 978-1-60435-070-8

Also Available in Print

Will the preconceived notions and stereotypes keep them apart or do opposites really attract?

Kasim has heard about a writer he thinks writes for a filthy rag, as he calls magazines that do personal stories. When he discovers that the daughter of the trainer his uncle is intending to use for his horses at Newmarket is that writer, he is scornful.

Cassie tries to persuade him she is fit to take over as a temporary trainer when her father needs time off for illness, but she isn't prepared for the love/hate relationship between them.

Can she convince Kasim that she isn't what he thinks – and can they overcome the differences between them?



Excerpt



"Please come in, Mr. Ahmed," Helen was saying. "We have been looking forward to your visit. I am terribly sorry that neither my husband nor I were here to greet you yesterday, and unfortunately, my husband has had to stay in hospital for a few days—but my daughter will look after you."

Cassie's eyes met the impostor's and the look she gave him made him blink. She held back the biting words until she could be certain of getting him alone, because he was offering to shake her mother's hand, introducing his lawyer as Ben Harrison, an Englishman whom he'd met at Oxford and who now worked for him on a permanent basis.

"I was concerned to hear that Josh was ill," he said, notching up another mark on Cassie's list for daring to use her father's name so familiarly. "I shall find time to visit him soon—how long will he be in the hospital?"

"A few days, no more," Helen said, smiling at him nervously. "I wondered if you and Mr. Harrison would have some lunch after you've had a look at the accounts? It is just a cold buffet, mostly salads and things."

"Yes, thank you," he accepted easily. "I expect to be checking records for some hours and it would be nice to eat in the office as we work—if that is all right with you, Mrs. Livingston? We can just help ourselves and pick. A dreadful habit, but I seldom have time to sit down for a meal."

"Oh, lovely," she said, feeling relieved because the thought of sitting through a formal meal with him was daunting. "I'll let you know when it's on the table—in about two hours—and then you can help yourselves."

Ben Harrison thanked her, asked if they could possibly have coffee now, and looked at Cassie. "You must be Miss Livingston," he said and gave her a friendly smile. "Are you ready to get started?"

"If I may, I should like a private word with Mr. Ahmed first?"

"Cassie?" Her mother looked at her in surprise.

"Yes, of course, Cassie. A message from your father I expect." The impostor was as cool as an iced cucumber and too fantastic-looking for her peace of mind—but that wouldn't save him, even if he did make her knees turn to jelly every time he looked at her.

"In his office if you don't mind."

Cassie's clipped tones would have warned any of her colleagues that a storm was brewing, but he seemed impervious—or maybe he was so damned sure of himself that he didn't care. He followed her into the office, leaving the door slightly ajar. Cassie closed it, turned, and gave him her best Cassandra look, calculated to slay at fifteen paces. He didn't turn a hair, damn him!

"And what do you call this?" She held the newspaper photograph out to him. "Why are you here, Mr. Mohamed? Or whatever your name is."

"I have a string of them," he replied mildly. "You chose to use Ahmed. I didn't correct you, because it is a name I am entitled to use though seldom do."

"But you're an impostor!" Cassie burst out. "You're not Sheikh Ali bin Ahmed. You're not the man my father intended to do business with—so why are you here? Was it to spy on Barmy?"

"Who or what is Barmy? I'm sorry. I have no idea what you're talking about."

"The two-year-old my father thinks is a future Classic winner. I suppose you think you can buy him on the cheap?"

"Ah yes, that horse—I might consider buying him," he said, a faint smile on his lips. "Tell me—why do you call him Barmy?"

"Don't try to charm me," Cassie said furiously. "I know you for what you are now and…"

She was in full flood, her voice rising when he suddenly took two steps towards her, grabbed her, and kissed her hard on the mouth. It was a cold, ruthless, punishing kiss with no tenderness intended and it took her breath away. When he let go of her she almost stumbled, and only her feeling of utter shock stopped her striking out in retaliation. She needed a few seconds to get her breath back, and a few more to bring her mind under control. The warm feel of his mouth on hers, even though hard and impersonal, had sent such a wave of desire through her that she felt as if she were caught in her dream again. Except that he had been smiling at her then; now he looked as if he wanted to break her neck.

"Why did you do that?"








Book Reviews
"This is a great book. It is one that you don’t want to end. You will fall in love with the characters and find yourself rooting for them to find the love and happiness that they are both searching for."
~ Red Roses for Authors


"...rich in character building... Cassie’s Sheikh is an enjoyable summer read."
~ Bella from Fallen Angel Reviews

Featured Author/ Raven Starr

THIEVES IN THE NIGHT
Desert Rose Anthology
Raven Starr

Mainstream Romance: Historical/Period, Desert Rose, Interracial/Multicultural
ISBN: 978-1-60435-270-270-2



Stolen, Kidnapped and Enslaved, what kind of life is this?

Born under suspicion Femi’s life drastically changes one night while gathering water for her father. Dragged from her home, thrown into slavery Femi must keep her wits as well as her fiery spirit if she wants to survive the wrath of Nicos the harem master.

But King Hansani has eyes for Femi. When a secret falls into his lap he will do anything to keep Femi safe.

But will he be able to keep her safe or will she be running for her life?




Excerpt



She wondered from where this exotic girl hailed; but thinking it rude to ask, Femi kept her burning question to herself. Anippe’s expert hands touched the purple strangulation marks encircling her slender throat.

“You must not anger Nicos. Losing his maleness made him insane. It was his punishment for violating the King’s property when he first arrived. He was brought here from Nubia a long time ago, and over the years he’s regained our King’s trust. Now he is the overseer of the harem, appointed to that position by our King.”

“Your King,” Femi corrected.

“To show our King kindness would benefit you greatly,” the old woman replied.

Femi looked at the quiet, pale girl, wanting to see the expression on the young girl’s face. Jamila seemed mute or maybe she was in some sort of trance; either way, Femi couldn’t keep her eyes off her.

“Anippe is right. You should not choose to anger them, unless you like punishment. Life here can be good if you learn to obey and listen. The King gives special girls or his prized concubines a private audience with him. It is in your best interest to serve your King. You may not think he is your King, but he is. The sooner you come to realize such, the better off you will be.”

Femi scoffed. “Harem? Concubine?”

“Yes, you now belong to Hansani Tarik,” Anippe added proudly as her wrinkled hand slid over Femi’s perky breasts.

“Belong? I belong to no man, for I am not married. I give my soul to Ra and the Goddess mother Isis,” she said flatly.

“That may be true, but as of now your body belongs to King Hansani,” Anippe said matter-of-factly.





Book Reviews
"...an exciting read full of twists and turns in a faraway land... Strong characters, excitement, romance, and secrets are all found within the pages of Ms. Starr’s book. Go pick it up today."
~ Matilda from Coffee Time Romance

Featured Authors Jane Beckenham &Debra Kayn

Debra




THE SHEIKH'S PROPOSAL
Desert Rose Anthology
Jane Beckenham


Mainstream Romance: Contemporary, Interracial/Multicultural
ISBN: 978-1-60435-080-7

Also Available in Print

Will Callie learn the rules of the game or will Tariq take all?

Go or lose her job. Callie Baxter has no choice, but then does her heart have a choice when forced to face her nemeses, the man she blames for her father’s death and whom she is determined to destroy. The man, who also tugs at her heartstrings. Her mind says one thing, her body another.

Home for Sheikh Tariq bin Ahmed al Sulamein is La Isla Perfumada, an island paradise his family have ruled for 800 years. Callie’s public tirade via her newspaper column is threatening to tear all he holds dear.

For Tariq, facing Callie is a fatal error. She is the one woman who could change his future, force him from his protective world, and make him place his needs above those of his country. But Tariq is determined to control the game and play it his way, and not lose his country, or his heart.

But is there really any choice when the heart is involved? Can paradise seduce estranged hearts?




Excerpt


They say you don’t know when your life changes. Callie Baxter knew. Exactly. It was right now. Right here.

And why?

Because of him. The man across the room. The man with eyes the color of purest sapphires and hair as black as a moonless night.

There had been an awareness of someone seeking her out, a presence that flared from him to her the moment their eyes locked.

Just one darkly challenging stare from him and Callie’s nerves fluttered alive, her belly doing somersaults with a heady tension of excitement...and fear.

Fear, because she’d never felt like this. Never allowed herself to.

Everything about him bespoke exclusivity. From the finest fabric of the obviously designer suit that molded his broad shoulders, to the onyx and gold-rimmed cufflinks glinting under the arc of light from the chandeliers above.

An implacable aura of authority emanated from this stranger. All power and autocratic masculinity, a man who knew what he wanted.

Unable to keep from returning his gaze, Callie swallowed hard. One wary shiver after another chased down her spine and her instincts knotted and screamed leave now.

She stayed.

Saturday nights were nights where she was happy with a good book. Sad, but true. She should have stayed home.

Instead she sequestered herself in the corner of the up-market art gallery, observing the stranger—her stranger, she’d so quickly named him—as he deftly thwarted attempts by gallery patrons to engage him in conversation. His stony expression brooked no intrusion, no hint at humor. Simply disdain. This man wanted to do battle. And his attention focused solely on her.

Callie dragged her gaze away and scanned the crowd with one intention in mind. Escape. She needed to.

All she had to do was turn and walk away.

Fool. Already it was too late.

With the agility and sleekness of a panther ready to pounce, her stranger sidestepped guests and moved towards her. Callie's throat closed over. She prayed she was wrong, fanciful even, but as the hairs on the nape of her neck stiffened with every step that brought him closer, she knew her time was up.

She choked for breath, witnessing the suspicion laid bare in his arrogant gaze. A burgeoning flame stroked her fear second by second. Who was he? And why did he affect her so?

This shouldn't be happening. She didn't want it to. Yet her body betrayed her, while her mind questioned futilely. Callie prided herself on her poise, outwardly frustrating would-be admirers, but this man was different. She knew it. Instinctively. He wore his power blatantly. A power she doubted she could deflect.

He spelt danger.

And still closer he came.

She had a fleeting hint of recognition, though it disappeared before it even had time to register.

Time was up.

"You waited for me. I hoped you would," he said.

Callie’s jaw dropped, as his voice rippled over her, catching her by surprise in one singularly sensual wave.





Awards

Romance Novel Reader's Poll Pick #34, Preditors & Editors Reader's






BETRAYING THE PRINCE
Desert Rose Anthology
Debra Kayn


Mainstream Romance: Contemporary, Desert Rose, Interracial/Multicultural
ISBN: 978-1-60435-340-2


Raised by the Prince of Antaka, Celina Rodriquez, is forced to leave the island and live life in America. Refusing to follow in the footsteps of her mother, she promises herself she will not fall for the charms of any American.

When Drake is asked to teach the Antakian princess the way women in California live, he thought he'd be busy teaching her about movies, yachting, and the local fashion. Instead he finds himself losing his heart to a woman who swears she has sexual moves that will rock his world, and thinks nothing of walking around naked.




Excerpt


Drake took a step toward Celina, but she stepped backwards. Her foot didn't touch ground, and her arms reached out, grasping for something to stop her fall.

"Celina!"

She held her breath. The tepid water engulfed her, and she sunk. Lower and lower.

The bottom of the pool helped her push up, and her head broke the surface. Drake kneeled beside the pool with his hand out, grabbing for her. She tried to swim away, but her hair tangled around her arms.

"Here you go. I got you."

The cold air rushed at her body, and she shook. Drake stared at her body. She glanced down. The water turned her dress transparent, and it clung to her curves, leaving nothing to the imagination. She refused to cover herself.

"Stop it."

"What?" His gaze stayed glued to her chest.

"Stop staring at me like you want to eat me for dinner. It is wrong." She crossed her arms to cover her breasts. "You American men…ugh, you can't be trusted!"

It didn't help seeing the hungry expression on Drake's face. Her hardened nipples tingled, and she wanted nothing more than to lean into him, to steal his body warmth.

His lips moved, and instead of hearing his words, she imagined those same lips on her skin. Shivering, she stood in front of him, tempting fate.

The magnetic pull toward his body set her skin on fire. He brushed her hair away from the front of her face, his hand skimming the side of her cheek. She curled her head into the heat of his flesh, and her eyes closed automatically.

The warm, moist brush of his breath against her cheek warned her. He wanted to kiss her. She arched her neck, and her chest touched his. Control of her body orchestrated by something alien inside her, she fought.

"Oh. Her eyes opened wide. No. No." She must make him see reason. "I can't. Drake, this is wrong."

She ran past Drake, through the house, until she slammed her bedroom door. She rushed to bolt the lock, not knowing if she wanted to keep Drake out, or herself in. Papa spoke the truth. Part of her mother still lived inside her. Damn Mama.

Kate and the Soldier

KATE AND THE SOLDIER
BY
BARBARA BELL
PUBLISHED BY ROBERT HALE, LONDON.
ISBN 978-0-7090-8434-1


Kate Millbank had longed, for years, to see her childhood friend home again
and now he was coming, albeit under very sad circumstances.
His father and Kate's uncle, the third Earl of Falworth was dying and had
sent for his eldest son to visit it him. Although David was his eldest son
he was not his heir, as he had been born out of wedlock and abroad. When
the Earl had married, sometime later, his wife Regina had presented him two
sons' and a daughter.

The Napoleonic wars were over, David had survived them although badly
wounded, but Kate's brother Philip had not.
Kate wondered if David had changed, or was he still the kind friend who had
been very close to both her and her brother.

Major David Merritt, who had been bought a commission in the army by his
father, had been sent from his much loved home at Westerly, at the age of
just eighteen, reluctantly by his Father, but at the insistence of his
stepmother, who had always disliked her husband's illegitimate eldest son.

To Kate's disappointment David had changed a great deal. He was obviously in
a lot pain from his wound, which still had the bullet embedded in it. He, it
seemed, had become a very bitter man. Kate wondered exactly what made David
keep her at arm's length since he had returned home and why he could no
longer discuss his feelings with her.

David was in torment because he believed that he was to blame for Kate's
brother Philip's ,death and that when he confessed all to Kate she would
surely hate him. Nevertheless he was determined that he would tell her as
soon as he could, but many events at Westerly were to stop him from
confessing his guilt to her for a considerable time.

Life was not made easy for David, by his stepmother Regina, who could not
understand why her husband had sent for his eldest son, as he had no hope of
inheriting anything from the Earl's estate, his commission was all the
expectations he had.

Lawrence her eldest child was a spoilt and pompous person who cared little
for the land and farms, only for the revenue it would bring him. David
however loved his former home and was saddened by the poor state of the land
and crops he found when he rode around the estate.

How can Kate possibly persuade David that she still needs him as a friend
and perhaps more .if he will not confide in her.


This is a lovely involved Regency story, which I am sure you will enjoy, as
it gradually unfolds and you learn to know the whole family, some of whom
are quite unlikable characters, while others you will sympathise with and
hope they find happiness eventually. I think this is a well-written book
with a lovely Regency story, which I really enjoyed and I give this book ,
4.5 Roses AS

Moonshadows

Moonshadows by Melinda Hammond





Samhain Publishing



September 2008



ISBN: 1-60504-188-2



Pages: 221





Jessica “Jez” Skelton thought she knew exactly where her life was headed. She is interning at CME a company that will help her get her degree in marketing in just a few short months. Her boyfriend Harry‘s engineering career is really starting to take off.



Piers Cardeaux is the owner of a successful software company. He knows there is something missing in his life but so far hasn’t found what he is searching for.



Now if Jez can just figure out why things are feeling wrong. Having a really handsome man help with the jammed copier is helping things look a lot better. Finding out that he is the owner of the company she is working for throws her for a loop. Helping Jez with a jammed copier shows Piers exactly what he was looking for. Now he just has to convince Jez of what is right in front of them. Now things don’t seem as clear as they once were. To complicate matters is the fact that Jez is convinced she is being haunted by a ghost that was once one of her ancestors, Sarah. As Jez tries to find out more about Sarah, Jez is seeing a disturbing resemblance to things going on in her life. Now she needs to figure out if she is destined to repeat history or find the happiness that eluded Sarah. Sarah just might be helping give her a push in the right direction. Hopefully Jez will find out the truth and what is right before it is too late.







This book has many twists and turns and makes you want to keep reading to find out what will happen. Next the characters are brought so richly to life that you feel as if you know them. You find yourself hoping that they will find their happily ever after. You can feel the characters emotions so very deeply that you can experience what they are feeling.





I give this one 4-1/2 red roses