Thursday, June 30, 2011

Romantic Suspense



Wikipedia explains Romantic Suspense as follows:

Romantic suspense involves an intrigue or mystery for the protagonists to solve. Typically, however, the heroine is the victim of a crime or attempted crime, and works with a hero, who tends to be in a field where he would serve as a protector, such as a police officer, FBI agent, bodyguard, or Navy Seal. By the end of the novel, the mystery is resolved and the interaction between the hero and heroine has evolved into a solid relationship. These novels primarily take place in contemporary times, but authors such as Amanda Quick have broadened the genre to also include historical timeframes.

Wednesday, June 29, 2011

Historicals-Various Authors


HIS NOBLE PROMISE, Adrienne Basso

The author weaves two independent story lines in this tale of mystery and romance. The mystery begins when a surprised Earl of Mulgrave, Richard Cameron, finds a pale, sweat-drenched woman in his bed, writhing during the agony of escalating labor pains. He recalls their brief illicit liaison and promises her he will care for her newborn child. When the new mother dies moments after the birth of her daughter, Richard bribes a priest into falsifying marriage records in order to support his parental claim. Through the passing years, Richard loves and cares for the child and is unaware that someone else lurks in the shadows waiting to claim the child as his. References to the "who's the father" mystery are sprinkled throughout the novel and aren't resolved until the book closes.

Saturday, June 25, 2011

Contemporary Romance: LaVryle Spence and More Sandra Brown



Meet LaVryle Spencer

LaVyrle was born on July 17, 1943 in Browerville, Minnesota, USA, where she grew up. Married with her high school sweetheart Dan Spencer, shortly after her graduation, a decision she calls the wisest choice of her life. They had two daughters, Amy and Beth (d. 1990).

LaVyrle worked as a teacher's aide at Osseo Junior High School, when in her thirties, she read Kathleen Woodiwiss's novel "The Flame and Flower", which gave her the idea to become a novelist. She decided to try transferring to paper a recurring dream she was having about a story based on her grandmother's lifestyle on a Minnesota farm. Her story became her first manuscript, "The Fulfillment", and she sent it to Kathleen Woodiwiss. The bestselling author read the novel and promptly mailed it to her own editor at Avon. The editor purchased the novel, which was published in 1979. She was inducted into the Romance Writers of America Hall of Fame in 1988. She wrote 23 sweet historical and contemporany novels. Published around the world, her works had included 12 New York Times Bestsellers, and have been won 4 RITA Awards, 3 Golden Medallion Award and a Minnesota Book Awards. LaVyrle said: "the trademark of my books is mending relationships, showing people how to mend relationships."

Friday, June 24, 2011

More Historicals: Katerine Sutcliffe, Christina Dodd, Nicole Jordan



Meet Katherine Sutcliffe
Katherine Sutcliffe is a multi-award winning USA Today National and International Bestselling author of twenty two historical and contemporary suspense novels.

Katherine has worked as Consultant Head Writer for the daytime dramas As The World Turns and Another World, playing herself in Another World. She has been featured in numerous genre magazines, major newspapers, TV Guide, and The Jenny Jones Show.

Sutcliffe is a native Texan and lives near Dallas.
NOTORIOUS
Katherine Sutcliffe


The time is 1857; the place England. Meet Destiny Fontaine, a young widow, finally free of her loveless, unconsummated marriage.
Dashing Jason Batson steals her heart and she quickly finds herself in love. After their brief affair, Destiny discovers she is pregnant by a man she comes to distrust. Jason whisks her aboard his ship headed for India in hopes that she will lead him to her father who is suspected of leading the rebellion to free India from English rule.

In this fabulous novel, the reader is swept into the historical drama, as well as the couple's passionate love affair. I found myself full of mixed emotions, throughly involved in the story, and totally enthralled by each new revelation . Ms. Sutcliffe continues to amaze me with her fresh approach to romance and the sizzling passion that she unveils in every story. She makes you really care about the characters and holds you captive with her compelling plot laced with breath-taking intrigue. This is another winner-don't miss it!

AT LONG LAST
Shirlee Busbee


With seven New York Times bestsellers to her credit and nine million copies of her thirteen novels in print, Shirlee Busbee enthralls her followers and wins new fans with every historical romance she publishes. Now she transports readers to the lush, tempestuous setting of old Natchez, Mississippi.
The threat of financial ruin, the death of her young fiancé, and the tragic loss of her father- Arabella Montgomery faced it all. Now, she is stunned to learn that her younger half brother gambled away Highview, the family plantation, with the turn of a card. Her efforts to reclaim her ancestral home lead her into an unholy alliance with her former suitor, Tony Dagget.

Bella's father vigorously objected to her relationship with Dagget due to the scandal that clouded his reputation. It seems her suitor had two dead wives whom he might have murdered. Now, Bella and the man who has never stopped loving her must foil a plot which, if unchecked, promises to destroy them both.

You can always count on author Shirlee Busbee for a well-written story, memorable characters, an engaging plot, and sizzling romance. You'll find it all in this sensational novel.

RULES OF ENGAGEMENT
Christiana Dodd


RULES OF ENGAGEMENT is the second book in Christina Dodd's Governess Series. In 1839, three young English ladies take destiny into their own hands and open the Distinguished Academy of Governesses. When Queen Victoria threatens rakish Devon Mathewes, earl of Kerrich, he must find a way to present the appearance of respectability, kindness and decency. He approaches the Academy of Governesses wishing to hire an "ugly" spinster. Pamela Lockhart, one of the young owners, dons a disguise to hide her youthful beauty and takes the job.

Following his instructions, she also finds an orphan for him to sponsor. Pamela is not prepared for the attraction she feels for the outspoken earl. The earl is stunned to find himself attracted to the frumpy governess in spite of her thick glasses and prim attitude. As the two fight their mutual attraction, several problems surface to threaten the earl's family bank and portend scandal against the family honor.

You'll enjoy watching Devon and Pamela as their romance unfolds and revisiting Charlotte and Wynter, the hero and heroine of the first novel in the series, RULES OF SURRENDER. It's a well-written novel with delightful characters, an interesting plot, and Dodd's trademark humor.

RULES OF ATTRACTION, book three of the series, is full of surprises, suspense, and romance. Hannah Setterington sells the accademy and agrees to become a companion to the elderly aunt of a mysterious Lord. He's rumored to have murdered his wife. You'll want to check it out.

In Bed With The Duke
Christina Dodd

Lady's companion Emma Chegwidden avoids defying society's rules-until she runs right into the arms of the seductive Reaper...a mystery man whose goal is justice. Or is it vengeance? Only one thing is certain: he's far too dangerous for the demure Emma. But some challenges are too tempting to resist...


Taken By The Prince
Christina Dodd

This is the nineth book in the Governess Brides series.

Only Victoria knows that Saber Lawrence is a renegade prince plotting to seize control of his country. But when Saber kidnaps Victoria to ensure her silence and vanquish her reserve, he finds that the proper English governess is not so easily seduced, unless Saber's willing to surrender something of his own-his heart.

Meet Christina Dodd


Christina Dodd is the author of seventeen romances that made regular appearances on the bestseller lists. She has won numerous awards including Romance Writers of America's Golden Heart and RITA Awards.


MASTER OF TEMPTATION
Nicole Jordan
In this dazzling novel, Nicole Jordan tempts readers with a tale of breathless splendor and soul-searing passion.

Lovers in paradise...

He is a brilliant military commander... and every woman's temptation. When Max Leighton unexpectedly comes to her golden Mediterranean island, Caro Evers longs to heal his emotional battle scars. But during one glorious night in his arms, she discovers a sensual master whose mere touch drives her to wild abandon.

She is the bewitching angel he can't forget. Jaded by the glittering ballrooms of Regency London, Max returns to Cyrene to find the temptress who haunts his dreams... only to learn that Caro leads a dangerous double life. She's a warrior as well as a healer—member of a secret society of protectors, sworn to fight evil and tyranny across Europe.

Afraid to lose her heart to Max again, Caro vows to conquer her fierce tenderness for him and thwart his campaign to win her. Then a perilous mission of adventure takes them far from Cyrene's sun-splashed shores, entwining their destinies and challenging their deepest desires.



THE SEDUCTION
Nicole Jordan

THE SEDUCTION is destined to become one of my all time favorites. It's a scorching sizzler with a romantic hero who has the stuff that dreams are made of. He's bold, dashing, passionate and tender.

The Seduction is a fitting first offering in Nicole Jordan's "Notorious" Series. Tall, handsome Lord Damien Sinclair is appropriately known as "Lord Sin", a rake and adventurer who takes his pleasures where he finds them. His romantic exploits and sexual conquests are well-know throughout the bedrooms of Regency England. In a twist of misfortune, Damien's sister, Olivia's reputation is ruined by a ill-fated tryst and she is seriously injuried in a sham elopement. He vows to destroy Aubrey Trent, the young nobleman who is responsible.Trent loses eveything to Damien in a card game, leaving his family penniless.

Trent's widowed sister, Vanessa, is determined to protect her foolish brother at all cost. When she offers to act as companion to Lord Sin's bedridden sister, Damien agrees--with one scandalous condition. He wants the beautiful noblewoman to become his mistress. With this unholy bargain, the seduction begins, as Damien teaches Vanessa to become skilled in pleasing him in bed.

This delicious romance is not for the faint hearted, as steamy emotions rise from the pages and enthrall the unsuspecting reader. The interplay between the secondary characters also adds an additional bit of spice to the overall mix, blending all the plots and sub-plots into a tasty mixture of pure delight. As luck would have it, Damien, the hunter may well be captured by Vanessa, the game. Expect your emotions to be fully engaged as you read this passionate novel. It's an exciting battle of the sexes layered with the redeeming power of love.


Meet Nicole Jordan

Bestselling author Nicole Jordan spins spellbinding tales of unrivaled passion and sensuality. She recently moved with her real-life hero to the Rocky Mountains of Utah, where she is at work on her next sizzling tale of dangerous rakes and bold adventurers during the Regency era. Her sizzling historical romances have appeared on numerous bestseller lists, including the New York Times and USA Today

Skiing is her husband's passion, just as Nicole's is her writing and her horse. But, wherever she is, you can bet she'll be writing!

Thursday, June 23, 2011

Historicals: Meet Author Julie Beard

Meet Author Julie Beard
Passionate, vibrant, and unique. Those words best describe the historical romances written by USA Today bestselling author Julie Beard. Critics and readers alike praise Julie for her ability to create living, breathing characters in historical settings so vividly drawn they come alive.

Julie's first medieval novel was published by Berkley in 1994. Her first non-fiction book was released in 2000, the critically acclaimed "how to" book, The Complete Idiot's Guide to Getting Your Romance Published.'' Julie's first Victorian romance, The Duchess' Lover, is an April 2002 release. It's a sensual tale of sexual and personal awakening, featuring an older noblewoman who falls in love with her young gardener. It's hot, hot, hot! And poignant, as well.

Wednesday, June 22, 2011

Historicals: Amanda Quick

 

Amanda Quick
A pseudonym used by
Jayne Ann Krentz

Most of us read fiction for pleasure, but some of us gravitate especially to works about the past. People have enjoyed historical fiction since 800 BC when Homer wrote about the Trojan War in the Iliad. The worlds to which historical fiction carries us may seem utterly different from our own - but they really existed. A deep understanding of the past can help us understand our own time and our own motivations better. And by blending history and fiction, a novel lets us do more than simply read history: it lets us participate in the hopes, fears, passions, mistakes and triumphs of the people who lived it.
Margaret Donsbach, HistoricalNovels.info



The Paid Companion

The Earl of St. Merryn needs a woman. His intentions are purely practical-he simply wants someone sensible and suitably lovely to pose as his betrothed for a few weeks among polite society. He has his own agenda to pursue, and a false fiancée will keep the husband-hunters at bay while he goes about his business. The simplest solution is to hire a paid companion.



Tuesday, June 21, 2011

Destination: Romance-Lake Tahoe, NV



There are some places in the world that just have to be experienced. Lake Tahoe, NV is one of them! It's an elegant retreat for a couple with love on their mind. No matter what the season, it's a joy getting to know this special place. Blue sky, snow-capped mountain tops, towering pines and a scenic lake set the backdrop for the magic called Tahoe. Charming lakeside cabins are nestled along the shoreline, offering an unforgettable winter treat.

Destination: Romance-Jamaica, West Indies



Beautiful, tranquil, and colorful Jamaica is the gem of the Caribbean, offering a perfect trip to paradise. Much of Jamaica's extraordinary landscape is a gently rolling one with a pastoral serenity similiar to Ireland and New Zealand, but with decidely warmer weather. The reach of the island's green valleys and golden beaches sweeps upward into majestic, blue tinged mountain peaks, creating panoramic images of rare beauty. Caressing Caribbean breezes add a soft, cooling touch to its near perfect climate all year round. Outside of the cyclical rainy seasons in May and October, Jamaica is bathed in radiant sunshine with only occassional precipitation.

Silverlady's Hidden Treasures- Magic Moments


Magic Moments

Sometimes I'm reading a novel and a particular scene just takes my breath away. There's something happening that makes for a magical moment. Whether it's that big love scene or the moment of truth for the lead characters or the total surrender to love, it's always unforgettable.

You may recognize it by its dog-eared pages, by how often you share it with friends, or by the smile that lights your face as you remember it. You'll find yourself pulling it from your treasure chest of memories and enjoying it over and over again. Here are some of the magic moments stored in Silverlady's hidden treasures.


Silverlady's Treasure Chest-Memorable Gifts


A treasure chest holds priceless articles for safekeeping. The contents could be glittering bright gold, sparkling dazzling jewels,or cool creamy pearls. Maybe the chest contains other great riches, e.g. precious artifacts or irreplaceable works of art. Each has tremendous value to the owner and usually requires a great deal of security to guard against theft.

My treasure chest is somewhat different. The articles are just as precious, just as priceless, and just as valuable to the owner. While these items do not need to be secured, they are nevertheless irreplaceable. My chest is filled with memories from books I've read. It holds the fiery passion of love, the stormy whirlwind of romance and the full panorama of human emotions. Tucked away within its confines are boisterous laughter, quiet tears, piercing glances and breathless moments. You'll find unforgettable characters facing life's most difficult challenges, the turmoil of their pain and emotional growth, and the sweet satisfaction of gaining the love of a lifetime. There are exotic places, far away lands, journeys to the future, and episodes from the past.

Endearing characters, gripping romances, and fast paced mysteries have taken me on many magical journeys. I'd like to share with you some of my favorite personal treasures.Welcome to my TREASURE CHEST. Enjoy!

Saturday, June 18, 2011

More Multicultural Romance-Adrienne Byrd, Gwynne Foster and Brenda Jackson

King's Ransom, Adrienne Bryd

The sexy King brothers own a successful bachelor-party-planning business and a string of upscale clubs across the country. What could be better than living the single life in some of the world's most glamorous cities?

Finding a woman worth giving it up for…

Eamon King organizes the wildest bachelor parties in Las Vegas. So wild that his latest client ends up marrying one of the strippers. Now the jilted bride-to-be, Victoria Gregory, is suing his company for millions. The problem is Eamon has

Wednesday, June 15, 2011

More J. D. Robb Futuristics: "In Death" Series


Follow New York Police Detective Eva Dallas in J. D. Robb’s gritty, futuristic procedural series:

-Treachery in Death
-New York to Dallas
-Indulgence in Death
-Fantasy in Death


Futuristics-"In-Death " Series: J. D. Robb


Writing as J.D. Robb, Nora Roberts has won new fans with her futuristic series of romantic crime novels. Read "Naked in Death", the novel that started it all and meet New York police lieutenant Eve Dallas and Roarke, my very favorite romantic hero.
When Eve Dallas gets involved with Roarke, a suspect in her lastest murder case, passion and seduction have rules all their own....
'a perfect balance of suspense, futuristic police procedural and steamy romance...truly fine entertainment...sure to leave you hungering for more...' Publisher's Weekly


Multicultural-Mixed Authors


Enjoy romance in color from the pens of Donna Hill, Adrienne Byrd, and Kimberly Kaye Terry.




Spend My Life With You, Donna Hill

Descended from a legendary political dynasty, Lee Ann Lawson has been the glue that holds her sprawling clan together. But being primary caregiver has meant putting her own dreams on hold. Preston Graham is about to change all that. From the moment they meet—at an estate in Baton Rouge—Lee Ann can't stop thinking about the ambitious, seductive junior senator from Louisiana.

All his life, Preston has focused on only one thing: rising up the political ladder. Marriage isn't even on the ballot. Until Lee Ann. The passion she arouses is hot, irresistible…and all-consuming. Can he convince the senator's daughter to toss her hat in the ring—by giving her heart to him and a love that comes only once in a lifetime?


Sunday, June 12, 2011

More Multicultural Romance-Rochelle Alers

Meet Author Rochelle Alers




Rochelle Alers has been hailed by readers and booksellers alike as one of today's most prolific and popular African American authors of women's fiction.

With nearly two million copies of her novels in print, Ms. Alers is a regular on the Waldenbooks, Borders and Essence bestseller lists, and has been the recipient of numerous awards, including the Gold Pen Award, the Emma Award, Vivian Stephens Award for Excellence in Romance Writing, the Romantic Times Career Achievement Award and the Zora Neale Hurston Literary Award.



Because of You, Rochelle Alers

From the author of the bestselling Hideaway novels comes the first in a dazzling, sexy new series, The Wainwright Legacy, chronicling the lives and loves of two prestigious New York families.

High-profile lawyer Jordan Wainwright is an expert at uncovering the truth for his clients. But he guards his own secrets closely, especially those surrounding his adoption by the powerful Wainwright family. Meeting attorney Aziza Fleming at a party, he's captivated by her ambition and sensual warmth. Although Aziza insists she's not looking for anything serious, their casual dates spill over into sultry, pleasure-filled nights.

Aziza has been burned twice before - first by a bad marriage, then by a harassment case that nearly destroyed her career. Sophisticated and irresistibly sexy, Jordan could be everything she wants, if he proves to be the trustworthy man she needs. However, he'll have to choose - between keeping a decades-old secret, or embracing their newfound passion.


More Gwynne Forster-Multicultural Romance

Fans of relationship dramas will enjoy these delightful contemporary romance novels. Crisp story lines, compelling characters, and believeable plots make each a treasure of its own. Enjoy author Gwynne Forster at her very best:
Passion's Price... Destination Love... Obsession... Naked Soul...
Fools Rush In... Against the Wind... Sealed With a Kiss


Passion's Price

Determined to prove herself to her siblings and her boss, Darlene Cunningham has made a name in the exciting, sometimes dangerous world of criminal law. When Darlene travels to Memphis in pursuit of a witness, the Maryland attorney doesn't expect to be under the surveillance of the rugged Tennessee cop who sets off sensual sparks from the moment they meet.



Meet Author Gwynne Forster

Gwynne Forster is an award-winning, best-selling author of ethnic (African-American)and non-ethnic, single title long contemporary novels and novellas. Her 1999-2000 releases include SWEPT AWAY, AGAINST THE WIND,FOOLS RUSH IN, NAKED SOUL, and BEYOND DESIRE. Her novel ECSTASY, was winner of the Affaire de Coueur Critics Award and voted Best Contemporary Ethnic Romance of 1997. Ms. Foster was chosen one of ten Favorite Authors among all romance authors with books published in 1997. Three earlier romances, OBSESSION, AGAINST ALL ODDS, and SEALED WITH A KISS, were released in July 1997, September 1996, and October 1995 respectively.




Saturday, June 11, 2011

Meet Author Sandra Brown

Meet author Sandra Brown, read her biography, then browse some  of her best work: The Alibi, Fat Tuesday, French Silk, and Tough Customer.

Sandra was born on March 12, 1948 in Waco, Texas and raised in Ft. Worth. She is nothing if not serious when it comes to her work. As the oldest of five daughters, she was a responsible and mature girl, and always chose to read a book rather than play with dolls. Her responsible nature stayed with Sandra as she graduated from Texas Christian University with a degree in English, and in her job as a contributing feature reporter at the nationally syndicated PM Magazine in Dallas. When the show experienced mass layoffs, however, Sandra found herself out of work.

Marriages of Convenience


A marriage of convenience is a marriage between two people for practical or financial reasons and
not for love or intimacy. Example: Widowed women of the old west in the U.S. often agreed to marriages of convenience in order to survive the hardships of homesteading during the 1800s.

ETERNITY, Jude Deveraux

Pampered, rich Carrie Montgomery weds Joshua Green by proxy, even though she isn’t the hard working practical bride he sought to help with the farm and his children. A near tragedy convinces him that he truly needs and wants her.

MORNING COMES SOFTLY, Debbie Macomber

Travis Thompson, a rough-and-tough rancher, and Mary Warner, a shy librarian, have nothing in common. But Travis needs a wife to help him with his orphaned nephews and niece. Mary becomes his mail-order bride and finds her fulfillment in being needed by her new family. Can she find love with the man she now calls her husband?

Meet Author Brenda Joyce


Brenda Joyce is the bestselling, award-winning author of Promise of the Rose, Scandalous Love and The Fires of Paradise. All nine of her historical romances have been highly acclaimed, and four of them, including the first three novels in the "Bragg" saga Innocent Fire, Firestorm, and Violet Fire have won six awards from Romantic Times and Affaire de Coeur. She has also won three industry awards for her trendsetting promotional bookmarks from Affaire de Coeur. Brenda Joyce is currently working on her next novel. Deadly Vows, coming in September 2011.


Deadly Kisses
"I did not kill anyone, Francesca. And the fact that you wish to destroy evidence suggests you think me capable of murder."
New York, 1902

Called to the home of her fiancé Calder Hart's former mistress late one night, amateur sleuth Francesca Cahill's curiosity is piqued. But upon arrival, she is shocked to find Daisy Jones's bloodied body -- and even more devastated when the evidence points to one suspect: Calder.


Contemporary Romance

Paradise, Judith McNaught
Meredith Bancroft is blonde, beautiful, successful - and alone. She remains mysteriously aloof from the Chicago society in which she circulates. Her secret lies with dynamic tycoon, Matthew Farrell.

Two strong-willed characters maintain 11 years of unwarranted hostility based on a series of misunderstandings in this engaging romance, McNaught's hardcover debut. Teenage socialite heiress Meredith Bancroft has a quick and disastrous secret marriage to unsuitably penniless Matt Farrell. Her domineering father tells each of them a series of damaging lies and speedily arranges a divorce.

A decade later, Meredith, now vice-president of a department-store chain and engaged to a prominent banker, meets Matt again. The highly successful CEO of his own conglomerate, Matt has a well-deserved reputation as a ruthless corporate raider, and when he hears of Meredith's aggressive plans for her chain's expansion the two clash explosively. To complicate matters, Meredith discovers that they have never been divorced.

Although marred by a melodramatic and contrived terrorist subplot, the ending is never in doubt. But by portraying her protagonists with verve and good humor, and adroitly mixing corporate maneuvers and passionate encounters, McNaught has produced a captivating tale. The author of "Whitney, My Love", "A Kingdom of Dreams" and "Almost Heaven" makes her mark on contemporary romance. Paradise is one of my all time favorite keepers. Hope you enjoy it as much as I do, each time I read it.

Perfect, Judith McNaught

A rootless foster child, Julie Mathison had blossomed under the love showered upon her by her adoptive family. Now a lovely and vivacious young woman, she was a respected teacher in her small Texas town, and she passionately lived her ideals. Julie was determined to give back all the kindness she'd received; nothing and no one would ever shatter the perfect life she had fashioned.

Zachary Benedict was an actor/director whose Academy Award-winning career had been shattered when he was wrongly convicted of murdering his wife. After the tall, ruggedly handsome Zack escaped from a Texas prison, he abducted Julie and forced her to drive him to his Colorado mountain hideout. She was outraged, cautious, and unable to ignore the instincts that whispered of his innocence. He was cynical, wary, and increasingly attracted to her. Passion was about to capture them both in its fierce embrace...but the journey to trust, true commitment, and proving Zack's innocence was just beginning....

Angel Falls, Kristan Hannah
Angel Falls is a wonderful romance. No dashing hero, sweet damsel in distress, or contrived drama in this novel. Author Kristin Hannah presents a compelling story of love and marriage featuring ordinary people facing real live issues. The story, set in northwest Washington State, takes off when Mikaela (Mike) Campbell falls from her horse, hits her head and laps into a coma. Her husband Liam must care for their two children and hold on to his faith that Mike will recover despite medical opinions to the contrary. He visits his wife every day and also takes care of the day to day things for his family, trying to keep everything as normal as possible. Here's a true hero. Liam stumbles upon souvenirs and pictures from his wife's hidden first marriage to Julian True, international movie star. He realizes that Julian may be the key to bringing his wife back to life. By calling upon Julian for help, Liam risks losing her and changing their lives forever.

The story will melt your heart. You'll fall in love with the hero and cheer the heroine as she discovers the difference between childish dreams and mature love. It's a two hanky read, but you'll enjoy every minute.

The Wedding, Danielle Steele
Danielle Steele's forty-eighth best selling novel, THE WEDDING, tells a tale straight out of today's Hollywood headlines. It's the story of the prominient, well respected Tinseltown family of movie producer Simon Steinberg and television writer Blaire Scott. The major focal point is twenty-nine year old entertainment lawyer Allegra Steinberg who spends her time attending to the interests of her celebrity clients which diverts her attention from her less than perfect private life. Just as her long-term relationship is shattered by infidelity, she meets a New York writer who turns her life inside out. The next thing she knows, she is planning a wedding to sexy Jeff Hamilton and is bombarded on all sides by chaos and confusion. Last minute details, final arrangements, unexpected surprises and mounting frustration take Allegra on a battering roller coaster ride.

THE WEDDING is typical of the type of family gatherings that bring out the best and the worst in everyone. It becomes a time for soul searching, reflection, unruly emotions, and renewed committments. The parents, Simon and Blair, are strengthened by the complex series of events that sweep the entire family into a whirlwind of emotion. All the characters are realistic, down to earth, and familiar. As THE WEDDING unfolds, Allegra puts aside the failed past and emerges ready to face the challenges of her future. As expected, Danielle Steele continues to deliver.

Danielle Steel's popularity is reflected in the 410 million copies of her novels that have sold throughout the world. Her long list of international best sellers include BITTERSWEET, SILENT HONOR, MALICE, MIRROR IMAGE, IRRESTIBLE FORCES, FIVE DAYS IN PARIS, and THE LONG ROAD HOME. Danielle also authored HIS BRIGHT LIGHT, the story of her son Nick Traina's life and death.

The Last Good Man, Kathleen Eagle

New York Model Savannah Stephens had it all-beauty, fame, and fortune, until a devastating illness resulting in everything slipping through her fingers. When she seeks the familiar comfort of her childhood home in Sunbonnet, WY, local gossips buzz while her longtime best friend, Clay Keogh, celebrates her return. His love has never wavered, despite an ill-fated first marriage. Clay is determined to heal the scars that Savannah tries to hide and to care for her and the beautiful child she brings with her.

Kathleen Eagle weaves a powerful love story with complex, contemporary issues. Expect characters with substance, a compelling plot, and a heart wrenching romance. This novel enlightens, entertains, and inspires while tugging at your heartstrings. The heroine is tough and unyielding, yet needy and vulnerable while the down to earth, hard working hero is every woman's dream- strong, sexy, and sensitive. Nothing frivolous about this one, but it's an unforgettable journey to love.

Meet Kathleen Eagle

Born in Virginia and raised in New England, best selling author Kathleen Eagle set aside a gratifying seventeen-year teaching career on a North Dakota Indian reservation to become a full-time novelist. The Lakato Sioux heritage of her husband and three children inspired many of her stories.

Kathleen has more than thirty books published and has received many awards and honors for her work. She received a Career Achievement Award from Romantic Times, the Midwest Fiction Writer of the Year Award, and Romance Writers of America's prestigious RITA Award. Library Journal named her novel WHAT THE HEART KNOWS one of the five best romances of the year. You may write her c/o Midwest Fiction Writers, P.O. Box 24107, Edina, MN 55424-0107.

Friday, June 10, 2011

Meet Julie Garwood


Julie was born in 1946 in Kansas City, Missouri. She is the sixth of eight children in a large Irish family. At the age of six, Julie had her tonsils removed and complications from the surgery resulted in a long period of recuperation. She fell hopelessly behind in school and never caught up. "I was a slow, slow reader," Julie says. "I hated it." At the age of 11, her mother discovered her daughter's secret and promptly enrolled her in a summer remedial reading class at the local high school. "When I got there the nuns immediately realized I wasn't even remedial. By chance, Sister Mary Elizabeth passed us in the hall and was drafted to tutor me." They spent the summer together, and Julie came to know Sister Elizabeth as a friend and mentor. The patient teacher eventually unlocked the door to the world of reading. "She taught me to love the written word. First, she introduced me to the Nancy Drew mysteries. One of her favorite authors was O. Henry, and he became one of mine, too. Of course, some of the vocabulary was beyond me so I had to look up a lot of words. I sat on a large dictionary -- got up, looked up a word, sat back down." Julie jumped up and down like a jack-in-the-box all summer.

Julie married young with Gerry Garwood and they had three children: Gerry Jr., Bryan Michael and Elizabeth. She began her writing career when the youngest of her three children entered school. After the publication of two young adult books, she turned her talents to historical romance fiction. Her first romance novel, Gentle Warrior, was published by Pocket Books with her married name in 1985 -- there have been over 20 novels since then. Her name appears regularly on the bestseller lists of every major publication in the country, including The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, USA Today, The Washington Post, the Los Angeles Times and Publishers Weekly. The popularity of her books expands with each new publication, and she is now read and enjoyed in many languages around the world.

With tens of millions of books in print, Julie Garwood has clearly earned a position among America's favorite fiction writers. Her reputation as a masterful storyteller is solidly founded in her ability to deliver stories with appealing characters, powerful emotions, and surprising plot twists. Readers claim that it's the humor as well as the poignancy of her novels that keep them laughing, crying and thoroughly entertained. Julie attributes much of her success to growing up in a family of Irish heritage. "The Irish are great storytellers who relish getting all the details and nuances of every situation. Add in the fact that I was the sixth of seven children. Early in life I learned that self-expression had to be forceful, imaginative and quick," says Julie.

Julie lives with her family in Leawood, Kansas. When her schedule allows time away from family and career, she devotes her efforts to promoting literacy, and especially enjoys sharing her love of reading with student groups.

The Clayborne Brides Trilogy: Romance in the West


FOR THE ROSES
When four streetwise boys find a baby girl in a New York City alley, they make a pact to raise her the way they should have been raised. They travel west and secure a ranch in Montana where they become a mismatched, but loyal family...until Harrison MacDonald comes along and attempts to return Mary Rose to her father. The difficult situation becomes more difficult when Harrison falls madly in love with Mary Rose.



THE CLAYBORNES ARE BACK AND LOVE IS IN BLOOM!
First introduced in Julie Garwood's magnificent New York Times bestseller For the Rcses, which inspired the Hallmark Hall of Fame television film Rose Hill, the Clayborne brothers of Blue Belle, Montana, have been embraced by millions worldwide. Now Julie Garwood spins the individual stories of these three spirited brothers -- once a mismatched gang of street urchins -- in a trio of special novels that begins with One Pink Rose.
One Pink Rose
Travis Clayborne may be the youngest of the Clayborne brothers, but he's most definitely his own man. Unless it means saying no to his beloved Mama Rose. And that's why Travis is escorting young Bostonian Emily Finnegan to Golden Crest, Montana -- where she'll discover what awaits her as a mail-order bride. Emily has made it perfectly clear that she's taken charge of her destiny and nothing is going to interfere. Falling in love with the perfect stranger isn't part of her plan, but the journey with Travis across this beautiful, rugged land opens her eyes...and her heart. Perhaps her destiny isn't exactly as she imagined.



ONE WHITE ROSE

Douglas Clayborne's intolerance of cruelty of any kind has made him a champion of the defenseless. When he arrives at Isabel Grant's ranch to pick up a stallion he's purchased and discovers the danger that threatens her, he refuses to leave the vulnerable woman alone. Convincing the strong-willed beauty that she need him is another matter. douglas can stop the men from stealing her ranch, but her cannot stop Isabel from stealing his heart.


One Red Rose
Adam Clayborne has always put great stock in the power of books. As an escaped slave -- and a wanted man -- reading has been his only ticket to the wonders of distant lands. Adam is content with his life as a confirmed bachelor, which is why his Mama Rose has summoned the irresistible Genevieve Delacroix to Montana. Also a former slave, Genevieve shares his dream of seeing the world, but she arrives to find Adam unfailingly polite...and just as distant. Undaunted, Genevieve determines to teach Adam what he'll never learn from a book -- that true freedom only comes when you open your heart.





COME The SPRING
The sequel to "For the Roses" is "Come the Spring". The saga continues as quick-draw Cole Clayborne is forced to become a U. S. Marshall. It's Daniel Ryan, a hard man set on vengeance, who desparately need Cole's help with a gang of malicious murderers. Their quest leads them to three beautiful women. One of them witnessed the murders...but which one? Daniel and Cole do what it takees to find the real witness, but thy didn't bargain on falling in love in the process.


PRINCE CHARMING

Lady Taylor's grandmother refuses to die until her granddaughter is safely married. Therefore, she arranges the wedding to Lucas Ross, a mountain man from Montana Territory who desparately needs the money to free his younger half-brother. They plan for the marriage to be in name only, but fall in love and find themselves with an instant family. They travel to Montana territory where Taylor realizes that her prince charming is the greatest gift her grandmother could ever have given her.

Historicals: Julie Garwood


Ransom

Julie Garwood weaves an intricate tapestry of intrigue and emotion in this daring new novel. Two unforgettable heroes from her novel "The Secret", Scottish chieftains Ramsey Sinclair and Brodick Buchanan, return to help an exqusite English beauty fight for her home, her family, and her father's reputation. Barely five and seven years old, Gillian and her sister Christen witness the brutal slaying of their father by the evil Baron Alford. Alford is determined to recover the jeweled box King John left in Gillian's father's care. He is furious when the box slips through his finger, only to be lost for more than a decade. Fourteen years later, Gillian has forged a life for herself, but vows to find her long lost sister and the precious treasure box. Under the protection of the Scottish lairds, Gillian and her new ally, Bridgid KirkConnell fight the unscrupulous Baron Alford. With her special storytelling gifts in full force, Julie Garwood spins an unforgettable page-turner of passion and loyalty, justice, honor, and love.



The Wedding

Kidnapped on the way to an arranged marrage, Lady Brenna finds herself married to quick tempered laird Connor MacAlister, without hopes of love from her new husband. On their wedding day, he had assured her that she could return to her home in England as soon as she had given him a son. Brenna is unaware that her marriage is merely the first act of vengeance against her bethrothed, Connor's sworn enemy. She remembers when she proposed to Connor ten years ago, when she was just a child dazzled by his charming smile. She sets out to win his heart. When a legacy of revenge ensnares Brenna in a furious clan war, only her faith in her gallant hero can save her. Soaring adventure and dazzling romance make this a delightful tale worthy of listing as a New York Times bestseller.



Saving Grace

Herione Lady Johanna-an abused and battered wife, wed to Baron Raulf, a vassal of King John of England-is pleased when the news comes that her husband is dead. The sixteen year old widow vowed that she would never marry again. However, King John demanded that she marry and selected the bridegroom, until her beloved foster brother suggests that she wed his friend, handsome Scottish warrior Gabriel McBain. It soon became apparant to the entire Highlands that their laird had surrendered his heart completely and Johanna found herself falling in love with her gruff new husband. There is a little of the testing of wills between the two, lots of time between the sheets, and a bit of drama to thrill the reader. This is Garwood's hardcover debut.




The Secret

This delightful novel is one of Julie Garwood's best. Beginning with the developing friendship between Judith, an English girl, and Frances Catherine, a Scot lass. both are only four years old when they meet at a border fair. Over the years they share their deepest secrets. Frances Catherine fears giving birth and when she becomes pregnant by her Highland husband, Patrick, she send for Judith. Laird Iain Maitland, brother to Patrick, is elected to fetch her. When he meets Judith, he finds her polite, stubborn, sweet, tender-hearted, brave and beautiful. He is surprised by his growing desire for the Englishwoman. Judith feels attracted to the huge, scowling Scot, despite his bluster. She sees an intelligent man with a kind heart, an arrogant confidence in his abilities, and a fierce handsomness that makes her heart pound. Even though they agree nothing can come of their attraction, desire and fate keep throwing them together. Judith's past is filled with secrets that make the road to romance difficult and threaten to ruin her relationship with Iain. The Secret" is a definite keeper. Pick it up the first chance you get. It's a touching, funny and memorable love story.



The Bride

Another of Garwood's bestselling romance novels is THE BRIDE. King Henry has commanded Baron Jamison to marry off two of his daughters to Alec and Daniel Ferguson, lairds of their own Highland clans. Captivated by the exceptional beauty of the youngest daughter, Jamie, Alex weds her against her father's wishes. Jamie encounters hostility from Alec's clan and must overcome their distrust. She brings Mary Kathleen, Alec's daughter from his first marriage, to live with them. Her ready and open acceptance of Mary Kathleen endears her to just about everyone and Alec admits that she has stolen his heart. the couple's passion for each other is an integral part of the story. Alec becomes possessive of Jamie's body, mind, and heart. Jamie is a mix of vulnerability and competence, with an endearing flw of a poor sense of direction. She has a temper that matches her husband's. Their banter and insults are stinging but affectionate. You won't be able to put this book down. It will make you howl with laughter and shed "happy" tears.




The Gift

THE GIFT In an attempt to bring peace between two feuding families, the king arranges a marriage between Nathan St. James, 14, and Sara Winchester, 4. Fourteen years later, Nathan must claim his bride in order to claim the riches that were promised in the marriage contract. He has never trusted women and refuses to let Sara into his heart. Sara, who has dreamed of loving Nathan for years, works hard to earn the loyalty of the crew of Nathan's ship, but invariably botches things. Despite it all, she gradually wins a place in everyone's heart and learns that, despite what her mother told her, making love can be as satisfying for a woman as it is for a man.





THE LION'S LADY

Christina Bennett arrives in London in the early 1800's and is in total control of her new life...until she meets Lyon, the Marquis of Lyonwood. He causes her to loose all control...but that can't happen because he would find out about her secret past. You can read "Guardian Angel" to continue the saga of Lyon and Christina.



GUARDIAN ANGEL

The powerful Marquis of Cainewood (Caine) is determined to avenge his brother's death. He poses as the pirate who he believes killed his brother to draw him out. Instead, he draws the beautiful Jade. She needs protection and he's willing to give it to her...but, exactly who is protecting whom? Find out in this novel set in London in 1815. The saga of Caine and Jade continues in "The Gift".