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Friday, September 30, 2011

Fire and Ice: Vampire Slayers, Volume 2

Fire and Ice: Vampire Slayers, Volume 2 [Kindle Edition]

C.S.Wolfe (Author), MiaRose C. J. Schaal Smith (Illustrator)

Kindle Price: $11.99 includes free international wireless delivery via Amazon Whispernet

 

 

ditorial Reviews

Product Description

The adventures of Carmen and Adrian continue. She’s the secret vampire society’s protector and slayer, and he’s a powerful vampire leader and 2nd in command. They struggle with their undying love for each other as they battle enemy slayers, vampires, and repeated attempts on their lives. Carmen tries, with difficulty, to conform to their rules, which makes her more aware that even though she’s a slayer and a council member, in a lot of ways she’s still considered a 2nd class citizen for being human. On a trip to England, Carmen learns that not all vampires have embraced a more modern way of fitting in with humanity. The vampires there still adhere to the old traditions… where most of the legends originated. They feel modern vampires are crass and impure. Her frightening encounters with one vampire in particular, show Carmen not all are interested in embracing the help of slayers and consider them abominations that should be destroyed. Sci-fi fantasy. PG13 for Romance,Horror
SLIVERTHORN PRESS REVIEW
Once again, author C.S.Wolfe brings us into the fantastical world of the Secret Vampire Society, where her main characters Carmen and Adrian fight forces determined to keep their love apart; the same forces that threaten their very existence.
Carmen is now entrenched in the Society's vampire culture and Adrian is second in command in the hierarchy, almost guaranteeing her safety, as once again the forces of fortune are wreaking havoc around them. Even though she is secure in her abilities as a slayer and is trusted by most in the Society, she will face the grave challenges of being human among vampires.
As they travel to the old country, Carmen will realize not all vampires embrace our modern society. She will find they hold on tightly to the old traditions, and are willing to destroy those who would challenge that view. In the middle of this is Adrian who is now torn between protecting the woman he loves and his loyalty and responsibilities to the Society.
The beauty of the characters, that C.S. Wolfe creates, is their complexity. They are not flat characters. These are not your every day vampires, and although they have the ability to walk in the day, they still hold to the traditional view of vampires.
The book, full of mystery, adventure, betrayal, and romance, is rated PG-13, making it accessible to teens. And C.S Wolfe creates an incredibly self reliable female character in Carmen. An artist and a woman who is not afraid to follow her heart, she is strong and smart, and many times ends up saving, instead of having to be saved.
In this, her second novel in the Fire and Ice series, C.S. Wolfe does a stellar job at presenting a heart wrenching love story told through believable, in-depth characters. You will want to believe the tale she weaves, the tale of the secret society of vampires.
- Silverthorn Press with Corbin Silverthorn

Product Details

  • Format: Kindle Edition
  • File Size: 1347 KB
  • Publisher: booksurge; 1 edition (November 9, 2009)
  • Sold by: Amazon Digital Services
  • Language: English
  • ASIN: B002YQ2JE8

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

LOVE THIS SERIES!!!!, February 16, 2011

By T. Hollenbeck (Michigan) -

Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?)

This review is from: Fire and Ice: Vampire Slayers, Volume 2 (Kindle Edition)

I absolutely Love this book, along with volume 1. I can not wait for volume 3 to come out. I am in my mid 30's a mom of 2 and loved the twilight saga books and movies. I have not been able to find anything I've liked even half as much as Twilight until this series. I love how the author writes. You can actually envision these characters. I love the passion Adrian and Carmen have for each other. I could not put this book down.

As Great as the First,

By Cynnie -

Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?)

This review is from: Fire and Ice: Vampire Slayers, Volume 2 (Kindle Edition)

I did not think it was possible for a Series to continue and be as great as the first Volume. Again, I could not put the book down once I started it. I took it to bed with a light to read by. I enjoyed the Twilight Saga, but in my opinion this Series of books beats them hands down. I can actually envision these characters. I love the passion between Adrian and Carmen along with the problems they face with one being a Vampire and the other human. I cannot wait to read the 3rd in the series. Again Ms. Wolfe has outshone herself. Please keep the series going!

Guardian Agent (Agents Under Fire)

Guardian Agent (Agents Under Fire) [Kindle Edition]

Dana Marton (Author)

Kindle Price: $4.99 includes free international wireless delivery viaAmazon Whispernet

Editorial Reviews

Product Description

When Gabe Cannon's commando team is tasked with bringing down a rogue solider, he doesn't expect to come face-to-face with the target's sister at the showdown instead of the man himself.
Jasmine is trying to lead the team away from her injured brother. Recognizing one of the hunters as her teenage crush is definitely a shock to her system. To save her family, she must convince Gabe that her brother was framed. But can she stop from falling in love with him all over again?
A fast-paced, heart-pounding romantic suspense that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Product Details

  • Format: Kindle Edition
  • File Size: 183 KB
  • Publisher: Dana Marton; 1 edition (June 17, 2011)
  • Sold by: Amazon Digital Services
  • Language: English
  • ASIN: B0056NU4BG

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

A Thrill a Minute,

By LadyJane -

This review is from: Guardian Agent (Agents Under Fire) (Kindle Edition)

I'm a fan of Dana Marton's Intrigues, so I wanted to check out her novella and I got a lot of bang for my buck! Non-stop action from the first page and enough romance to keep things interesting. Can I take Gabe home?

“Exciting, romantic international tale of espionage,”

By Jenel "Book Lover" -

This review is from: Guardian Agent (Agents Under Fire) (Kindle Edition)

Set amidst the canals of Venice, Guardian Agent is a fast-paced action adventure that also manages to be wildly romantic. Read it in one sitting and cannot WAIT to get my hands on Jake Tekla's story!!!

“Top notch thriller,”

By Paula Graves "Love is dangerous..." (Alabama, USA) -

This review is from: Guardian Agent (Agents Under Fire) (Kindle Edition)

This short novella started with a bang and the tension never let up. Marton is an accomplished thriller writer, and it shows. Everytime I promised myself I'd stop and turn out the light, I kept reading just one more page.
My only complaint was that the story just wasn't long enough to suit me. The relationship between the characters barely had time to evolve at all before the story ended with the assumption that they were now going to be a couple. I'd have liked a little more fleshing out of the relationship in the earlier chapters (a few moments of downtime in all of that adrenaline rush might have made for a nice respite). Then the ending wouldn't have seemed as abrupt.
But otherwise, GUARDIAN AGENT is a real thrill ride from one of the most reliable writers of romantic suspense today.

Blood & Fire 2: Blood Curse

Blood & Fire 2: Blood Curse [Kindle Edition]

Mychael Black (Author)

Kindle Price: $5.99 includes free international wireless delivery viaAmazon Whispernet

 

 

 

Editorial Reviews

Product Description

Jason Summerfield has finally found the man of his dreams -- Greek vampire Julian Kristados, and together, they’re enjoying life in Julian’s mansion on the outskirts of Atlanta, Georgia. Jason’s still going strong with his metal band, Firestarter, and they’re developing a big following throughout the area. Along with the fame, though, Jason has also garnered the attention of a stalker.
When the stalker’s attentions turn mysterious and potentially deadly, Julian seeks the advice of a friend, fellow vampire Gabriel Walsh. They discover the truth behind the stalker, but will they get to Jason in time to save him from forced repayment of an ancestor’s debt?

 

Product Details

  • Format: Kindle Edition
  • File Size: 68 KB
  • Simultaneous Device Usage: Unlimited
  • Publisher: Changeling Press, LLC (October 16, 2009)
  • Sold by: Amazon Digital Services
  • Language: English
  • ASIN: B004OR1SYM

 

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

5.0 out of 5 stars The saga continues...., July 14, 2011

By

Vixen (Crescent City, CA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Blood & Fire 2: Blood Curse (Kindle Edition)

This is the 2nd installment in the Blood & Fire series and it's a good one. The characters gain more depth and the storyline truly pulls you right in. Although you can read it on it's own, I would recommend reading the first book as it will give you better insight. Anxiously awaiting the next book in this series!

 

I greatly enjoyed Blood Curse and can't wait for the next installment in the bloody fantastic Blood and Fire series., June 23, 2011

By M. Nix "Joyfully Reviewed" -

This review is from: Blood Curse: Blood & Fire, Book 2 (Audible Audio Edition)

Pyrokinetic singer Jason has found the love of his life: undead vampire Julian. Things couldn't be going better for Jason, except for the fact that he's attracted a stalker. At first he ignores the creepy packages from the mystery person, but when he gets a potentially dangerous gift, Jason knows he has to tell Julian. What Julian and his friend, fellow vampire Gabriel, discover is that Jason's stalker is more deadly than any of them could have imagined. He's out to have a blood debt fulfilled and the only blood that will do is Jason's.
Vampires and curses and stalkers - oh my! Mychael Black's Blood and Fire series gets even more exciting with Blood Curse. Jason and Julian are back and hotter than ever, their love and lust for one another making Blood Curse sexy as hell. I loved getting to know the two men better and it was a joy to see their relationship grow. Add in a heavy dose of danger with Jason's stalker and Blood Curse zips along at a rapid pace, taking readers (or listeners, as it were) on one hell of a thrill ride. In addition, Blood Curse introduces a new vampire, Gabriel, who intrigued me immediately.
Blood Curse is the second story in the Blood and Fire series, but it can be read (or listened to) as a standalone. I greatly enjoyed Blood Curse and can't wait for the next installment in the bloody fantastic Blood and Fire series.

 

This was awful, July 3, 2011

By W. Spencer (Alexandria, VA, United States) -

This review is from: Blood Curse: Blood & Fire, Book 2 (Audible Audio Edition)

This has to be the worst book I have ever downloaded from Audible; it is only surpassed in its poor writing and narration by the first installment of this series. I purchased both because they were so cheap, and totally regret that move. The writing is immature and forced. The m/m written so badly it's embarrassing to listen too. The narrator sounds like a bombastic radio announcer slumming-it for the money; the accent's so poorly done they sound cartoonish. Don't be a fool like me; save your money or credit for something better than this trite book/series.

A Clash of Kings: Book 2 of A Song of Ice and Fire (Song of Ice & Fire 2)

A Clash of Kings: Book 2 of A Song of Ice and Fire (Song of Ice & Fire 2) [Kindle Edition]

George R. R. Martin (Author)

 

 

 

 

ditorial Reviews

Amazon.com Review

How does he do it? George R.R. Martin's high fantasy weaves a spell sufficient to seduce even those who vowed never to start a doorstopper fantasy series again (the first book--A Game of Thrones--runs over 700 pages). A Clash of Kings is longer and even more grim, but Martin continues to provide compelling characters in a vividly real world.

The Seven Kingdoms have come apart. Joffrey, Queen Cersei's sadistic son, ascends the Iron Throne following the death of Robert Baratheon, the Usurper, who won it in battle. Queen Cersei's family, the Lannisters, fight to hold it for him. Both the dour Stannis and the charismatic Renly Baratheon, Robert's brothers, also seek the throne. Robb Stark, declared King in the North, battles to avenge his father's execution and retrieve his sister from Joffrey's court. Daenerys, the exiled last heir of the former ruling family, nurtures three dragons and seeks a way home. Meanwhile the Night's Watch, sworn to protect the realm from dangers north of the Wall, dwindle in numbers, even as barbarian forces gather and beings out of legend stalk the Haunted Forest.

Sound complicated? It is, but fine writing makes this a thoroughly satisfying stew of dark magic, complex political intrigue, and horrific bloodshed. --Nona Vero

From Publishers Weekly

The second novel of Martin's titanic Song of Ice and Fire saga (A Game of Thrones, 1996) begins with Princess Arya Stark fleeing her dead father's capital of King's Landing, disguised as a boy. [...] In between [the beginning and the end], her actions map the further course of a truly epic fantasy set in a world bedecked with 8000 years of history, beset by an imminent winter that will last 10 years and bedazzled by swords and spells wielded to devastating effect by the scrupulous and unscrupulous alike. Standout characters besides Arya include Queen Cersei, so lacking in morals that she becomes almost pitiable; the queen's brother, the relentlessly ingenious dwarf Tyrion Lannister; and Arya's brother, Prince Brandon, crippled except when he runs with the wolves in his dreams. The novel is notable particularly for the lived-in quality of its world, created through abundant detail that dramatically increases narrative length even as it aids suspension of disbelief; for the comparatively modest role of magic (although with one ambitious young woman raising a trio of dragons, that may change in future volumes)... Martin may not rival Tolkien or Robert Jordan, but he ranks with such accomplished medievalists of fantasy as Poul Anderson and Gordon Dickson. Here, he provides a banquet for fantasy lovers with large appetites—and this is only the second course of a repast with no end in sight. Author tour.
Copyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Product Details

  • Format: Kindle Edition
  • File Size: 2291 KB
  • Print Length: 752 pages
  • Page Numbers Source ISBN: 0006479898
  • Publisher: Voyager (February 3, 2011)
  • Sold by: Amazon Digital Services
  • Language: English
  • ASIN: B004L9MFM2

 

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  Hardcore Action, Hardcore Fantasy. No One Does it Better,

By Andres R. Guevara (Aurora, CO United States) -

This review is from: A Clash of Kings (A Song of Ice and Fire, Book 2) (Mass Market Paperback)

During one of those endless nights when I just couldn't put Clash of Kings down, I wondered: "Why aren't there more books like this?" George Martin has created one of those most deeply involving and satisfying series out there. In only two books, he has crafted real characters involved in the horrors of war. Many of the reviews below accurately describe the way that Martin creates characters of grey, rather than comic book black and whites. Many of the scenes in the book fit well with dark and somber lighting. This is not your daddy's fantasy novel.

Martin's characters bring a more realistic spin on knighthood and war. Cersei describes it best to young Sansa when she destroys the young girl's romantic view of knights by remarking that knights are for killing, nothing more or less. And kill they do. The battle scenes are raw and unglamorous, like the opening scene from Saving Private Ryan. Its all very realistic and gritty and heck, it makes sense: what do you really think happens when a not-so-sharp sword is swung haphazardly at another person: I've never seen it firsthand, but I'm sure its not pretty. It may be an oxymoron to claim that a fantasy book can be realistic, but this series is: after seeing the battle scenes in Braveheart or Gladiator, I have a deeper understanding of the horrors of sword fighting in, say, the medieval times in English history. Martin's story is realistic in the sense that it doesn't gloss over the horror and pain and terror of battles and the rage of the people who fight them.

Martin's series is a hardcore fantasy adventure for adults. While other authors cater predominately to a younger fantasy audience, Martin seems to write for the "college and beyond" crowd (at 31, I'm well beyond). Sex scenes, like the battles, are not glamorous in the least. Whereas characters in Robert Jordan's Wheel of Time series constantly blush and stumble at the very thought of even kissing a girl, Martin's characters think lewd thoughts, perform graphic sex scenes, etc. Yes, its not for all ages, or for every taste, but for those of us who are tired of the same old antiseptic stuff, Martin is a mature breathe of fresh air.

Meanwhile, he continues to awe me with his story telling. The different kings are now in open conflict with each other. Whereas Game of Thrones focused on the Starks v. the Lannisters, in this installment, it seems as if the entire land is in termoil, with no less than six kings fighting each other and attacking each other. The battles are terrific, including the climactic battle. (no spoilers here)

One other note I feel compelled to make is that Martin has created strong and independant female characters in his series. People might assume, based on the reviews, that this is a male-dominated story. Nothing could be further from the truth. Martin spends as much time writing about the female characters (Sansa, Arya, Catelyn Stark) as the male characters, and the female characters rule (i.e. Cersei) and fight battles (I won't reveal any specifics on this point except to say that Martin introduces two female warriors.)

Martin has created a real world, with all the vices of our own, and given all his characters life. Here's hoping that other writers take note.

Superlative series; GRRM does it again!!!,

By MISTER SJEM "sonofhotpie" 

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: A Clash of Kings (A Song of Ice and Fire, Book 2) (Mass Market Paperback)

First off, I'm a heavy duty fan of GRRM. I've read over a 100 different fantasy authors in my time (started at 12; I'm now 32). Took about 5 years off from the genre b/c I felt it was all getting too formulaic and cliched. Typical archetype character who turns out to be the missing heir or boy wonder who saves the world against the Dark Lord.

So, when I came back to fantasy at the end of 1999, I read the usual: Goodkind, Jordan, etc. and then someone told me about GRRM and man, that was the kicker!

Here are the reasons to choose GRRM. I've also listed the reasons not to choose him to make it fair b/c I know their are certain personalities who won't like this series:

WHY TO READ GRRM

(1) YOU ARE TIRED OF FORMULAIC FANTASY: good lad beats the dark lord against impossible odds; boy is the epitome of good; he and all his friends never die even though they go through great dangers . . . the good and noble king; the beautiful princess who falls in love with the commoner boy even though their stations are drastically different . . . the dark lord is very evil and almost one sided at times . . . you get the idea. After reading this over and over, it gets old.

(2) YOU ARE TIRED OF ALL THE HEROES STAYING ALIVE EVEN THOUGH THEY ARE UNDER CONSTANT DANGER: this gets even worse where the author kills a main hero off but that person comes back later in the story. Or, a hero does die but magic brings him back.

This sometimes carries to minor characters where even they may not die, but most fantasy authors like to kill them off to show that some risked the adventure and perished.

(3) YOU ARE A MEDIEVAL HISTORY BUFF: this story was influenced by the WARS OF THE ROSES and THE HUNDRED YEARS WAR.

(4) YOU LOVE SERIOUS INTRIGUE WITHOUT STUPID OPPONENTS: lots of layering; lots of intrigue; lots of clever players in the game of thrones. Unlike other fantasy novels, one side, usually the villain, is stupid or not too bright.

(5) YOU ARE INTERESTED IN BIASED OPINIONS AND DIFFERENT TRUTHS: GRRM has set this up where each chapter has the title of one character and the whole chapter is through their viewpoint. Interesting tidbit is that you get their perception of events or truths. But, if you pay attention, someone else will mention a different angle of truth in the story that we rarely see in other novels. Lastly and most importantly, GRRM doesn't try to tell us which person is right in their perception. He purposelly leaves it vague so that we are kept guessing.

(6) LEGENDS: some of the most interesting characters are those who are long gone or dead. We never get the entire story but only bits and pieces; something that other fantasy authors could learn from to heighten suspense. Additionally, b/c the points of views are not congruent, we sometimes get different opinions.

(7) WORDPLAY: if you're big on metaphors and description, GRRM is your guy. Almost flawless flow.

(8) LOTS OF CONFLICT: all types, too; not just fighting but between characters through threats and intrigue.

(9) MULTILAYERED PLOTTING; SUB PLOTS GALORE: each character has their own separate storyline; especially as the story continues and everyone gets scattered. This is one of the reasons why each novel is between 700-900 pages.

(10) SUPERLATIVE VARIED CHARACTERS: not the typical archetypes that we are used to in most fantasy; some are gritty; few are totally evil or good; GRRM does a great job of changing our opinions of characters as the series progress. This is especially true of Jaime in book three.

(11) REALISTIC MEDIEVAL DIALOGUE: not to the point that we can't understand it but well done.

(12) HEAPS OF SYMOBLISM AND PROPHECY: if you're big on that.

(13) EXCELLENT MYSTERIES: very hard to figure out the culprits; GRRM must have read a lot of mystery novels.

(14) RICHLY TEXTURED FEMALE CHARACTERS: best male author on female characters I have read; realistic on how women think, too.

(15) LOW MAGIC WORLD: magic is low key; not over the top so heroes can't get out of jams with it.

REASON TO NOT READ GRRM

(1) YOU LIKE YOUR MAIN CHARACTERS: GRRM does a good job of creating more likeable characters after a few die. But, if that isn't your style, you shouldn't be reading it. He kills off several, not just one, so be warned.

(2) DO NOT CARE FOR GRITTY GRAY CHARACTERS: if you like more white and gray characters, this may unsettle you. I suggest Feist or Goodkind or Dragonlance if you want a more straight forward story with strong archetypes.

(3) MULTIPLE POINTS OF VIEWS TURN YOU OFF: if you prefer that the POVS only go to a few characters, this might be confusing for you.

(4) SWEARING, SEX: there's a lot of it in this book just as there is in real life. If you have delicate ears, this book may upset you.

(5) YOU DEMAND CLOSURE AT THE END OF EVERY BOOK: this isn't the case for all stories in the series. Some are still going on; some have been resolved; others have been created and are moving on.

(6) IF YOU WANT A TARGET OR SOMEONE TO BLAME: this can be done to some extent but not as much. This is b/c he doesn't try to make anyone necessarily good or evil.

(7) ARCHETYPES: some readers like archetypal characters because it's comfortable; we like the good young hero (sort of like Pug in Feist's THE RIFTWAR SAGA); it's familiar and we sometimes like to pretend we're this upcoming, great hero. You wont' get much of this in GRRM with the exception of one or two characters. There really aren't any super heroes compared to all the other characters as it's more grittier and no one is shooting fireballs every milisecond or carrying around some super powerful sword.

(8) LENGTH: you don't want to get into a long fantasy epic series. In that case, look for shorters works as this is biiig.

(9) PATRIARCHY: men are most of the main characters with lots of power (one female exception). While this is realistic of the medieval era, some readers may not prefer this if they want more girl power, so to speak.

By the way, if you don't want to commit to a big book until you know the author better, check out his short story, THE HEDGE KNIGHT, in LEGENDS. Overall, this is a great series and I happily purchase the hard cover when it comes out...

The Choice (Lancaster County Secrets, Book 1)

The Choice (Lancaster County Secrets, Book 1)[Kindle Edition]

Suzanne Woods Fisher (Author)

Digital List Price:$14.99

Print List Price:$14.99

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Editorial Reviews

From Publishers Weekly

The newest entry to the growing ranks of bonnet fiction writers is Fisher, who has written Amish nonfiction (Amish Peace). This Lancaster County tale centers on Carrie Weaver, who marries an Amish man for convenience though her heart is committed to another. Carrie struggles to care for her hemophiliac younger brother as she lives with the consequences of her own choices. The outline is promising, but the execution flawed. An intriguing heroine shows the author's potential, but major problems compromise the book's overall merit. The plot creaks too loudly; a few too many characters die to complicate the action, and the character who poses the biggest threat is more a caricature than credible villain. Minor characters—an oversized lovable ex-con, a harpy stepmother—likewise mostly serve plot rather than populate a convincingly drawn world. The language can get adjective-laden and trite (The air had grown thick and heavy). Bonnet fiction devotees might be able to overlook some problems, but this is not a strong new offering in the subgenre. (Jan.)
Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Product Description

With a vibrant, fresh style Suzanne Woods Fisher brings readers into the world of a young Amish woman torn between following the man she loves--or joining the community of faith that sustains her, even as she questions some of the decisions of her elders. Her choice begins a torrent of change for her and her family, including a marriage of convenience to silent Daniel Miller. Both bring broken hearts into their arrangement--and secrets that have been held too long.
Filled with gentle romance, The Choice opens the world of the Amish--their strong communities, their simple life, and their willingness to put each other first. Combined with Fisher's exceptional gift for character development, this novel, the first in a series, is a welcome reminder that it is never too late to find your way back to God.

 

Product Details

  • Format: Kindle Edition
  • File Size: 2328 KB
  • Print Length: 308 pages
  • Page Numbers Source ISBN: 0800733851
  • Publisher: Revell (January 1, 2010)
  • Sold by: Amazon Digital Services
  • Language: English
  • ASIN: B002Z1367G

 

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

stars Great read, February 1, 2010

A Kid's Review

This review is from: The Choice (Lancaster County Secrets, Book 1) (Paperback)

I'm a guy, and guys probably aren't supposed to read Amish romance books - but oh well. If I did what everyone else thought I should do, or not do, I'd never have any fun. I have read a few in my lifetime. One of my favorite vacation spots, second only to The Outer Banks, is Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, so I do enjoy books that take place there, such as this one.
I haven't read a lot of Amish books of this type, but I do think it is one of the best I have read. Move aside, Beverly Lewis, you have some new competition!
There is a lot of Amish beliefs/traditions in the book, but through one of the characters, there is also shown grace, and a side of God the Amish don't normally see - and I am afraid some of us non-Amish never see - the God of love and grace. The book is a good story - very likable characters, and it has its low places and high, sad and happy - but among the great story is the message that we can know we are going to Heaven, and God does love us and want a relationship with us - not just a far off worship of fear.
This is Suzanne Woods Fisher's first novel, and I would say she hit one out of the ballpark with this one.

 

emotionally amazing, February 27, 2010

By readaholic (Canada) -

This review is from: The Choice (Lancaster County Secrets, Book 1) (Paperback)

sooo Good!
lol I didn't think I'd enjoy it as much as I would. I've never read Amish fiction before, but Suzanne Woods Fisher made me fall in love with it! This incredible book just had my heart thumping and my eyes watering! So engaging, I couldn't put it down!
The story is basically this girl falls in love with a boy, but he decides to leave the group while he is on his rumspringa (their time when they get to experience the outside world if they want to before comitting to the church) and she ends up marrying someone else... it goes through love, forgiveness and about the choices we make that it's never too late to find ourselves with God... I even cried, and it takes a lot of me to cry in a book!
Whether your Amish or not this book has a lot to offer, the characters show depth and the emotions run raw in this book. I loved how much turmoil the main character when through and yet she learnt from it. So often we wonder why we go through things and we learn about forgiveness and God's real grace through it all.
It was sort of ironic that one of the books I just finished, Dug Down Deep by Joshua Harris started off with the discussion of rumspringa, so the bit I had been learning about the Amish fit in nicely to this book and gave it more flavor for me.
If I could give a story 6 cherries I would! She'll be on my top author's list!

The Choice, December 31, 2009

By Lollipops "lollipops5" (Arkansas) -

This review is from: The Choice (Lancaster County Secrets, Book 1) (Paperback)

THE CHOICE is the first book in Ms. Fisher's Lancaster County Secrets series. I couldn't help but fall in love with Carrie as she struggles to find herself among many sudden, shocking changes, but I think Carrie definitely came out ahead, learning to lean more and more on God as each event unfolds.
Some of the events in the first third of the book were quite unexpected and broke my heart. But while I would have liked to not have read about some of the events that transpired, the book ultimately had a happy ending, and I was sad that it ended. I thoroughly enjoyed reading THE CHOICE and am looking forward to Ms. Fisher's second book in the series, The Waiting, coming in October 2010.

Maid for the Billionaire (Book 1) (Legacy Collection)

Maid for the Billionaire (Book 1) (Legacy Collection)[Kindle Edition]

Ruth Cardello (Author)

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Product Description

Book 1:  Maid for the Billionaire
Dominic Corisi knew instantly that Abigail Dartley was just the distraction he was looking for, especially since having her took a bit more persuading than he was used to. So when business forces him to fly to China, he decides to take her with him, but on his terms. No promises. No complications. Just sex.
Abby has always been the responsible one. She doesn’t believe in taking risks; especially when it comes to men - until she meets Dominic. He’s both infuriating and intoxicating, a heady combination. Their trip to China revives a long forgotten side of Abby, but also reveals a threat to bring down Dominic’s company. With no time to explain her actions, Abby must either influence the outcome of his latest venture and save his company or accept her role as his mistress and leave his fate to chance. Does she love him enough to risk losing him for good?
Book 2: For love or Legacy (Now available)
Nicole Corisi will lose her inheritance if she doesn’t find a way around the terms of her father’s will, but she will have to partner up with her estranged brother’s rival to do it. As pretense becomes painfully real, Nicole will have to choose between Stephan or the family he is driven to destroy.
Stephan Andrade has been planning his revenge ever since Dominic Corisi unscrupulously took over his father’s company. With Corisi Enterprises gambling its reputation on the success of a new software network for China, Stephan finally has his chance to take back his legacy. Dominic’s younger sister, Nicole, asks Stephan for his help and provides him with an opportunity to exact his revenge on a personal level.
It all goes smoothly until he falls in love.
Book 3: Bedding the Billionaire (Coming to Amazon - Summer 2012)
Lil Dartley’s life is upside down. Her previously steadfast and predictable sister is marrying an influential billionaire and needs help planning the wedding of the century in less than a month. Years of middle class rebellion have not prepared Lil for handling diplomats or paparazzi.
Jake Walton knows a train wreck when he sees one. Lil was trouble from the first day he met her, but since her sister is marrying his best friend, he has no choice but to help her or this wedding will be in the news for all the wrong reasons. Teaching Lil how to fit into high society would be a whole lot easier if she didn’t drive him insane both in and out of the bedroom.
Book 4: Saving the Sheik (Just because I love romances with Sheiks--coming next year)

Product Details

  • Format: Kindle Edition
  • File Size: 310 KB
  • Simultaneous Device Usage: Unlimited
  • Publisher: Ruth Cardello/Smashwords (April 20, 2011)
  • Sold by: Amazon Digital Services
  • Language: English
  • ASIN: B004XJ4NI4

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

great book,

By MEGROSS13 -

Amazon Verified Purchase(

This review is from: Maid for the Billionaire (Book 1) (Legacy Collection) (Kindle Edition)

Can't wait for the next one! The story was fast paced and funny and not nearly as predictable as I expected it to be. There was a great character setup and by the end of the book I'd fallen for all of the characters and I can't wait to discover the rest of their stories.

This Was A Great Read, May 6, 2011

By atedogs (Gilbert, AZ USA) -

This review is from: Maid for the Billionaire (Book 1) (Legacy Collection) (Kindle Edition)

I am very hard on authors but I really really liked this book, I had wished it was even longer. The story keeps your attention keeps you interested and you are always wondering what's next. I still don't like men that are rich and have to have their own way and are pushy but in this case it worked. Enjoy. Althought the cost is worthwhile on Amazon I got it free on another website.

Excellent Read!!, May 18, 2011

By

C. Taylor (Northern MA United States) -

This review is from: Maid for the Billionaire (Book 1) (Legacy Collection) (Kindle Edition)

I highly recommend this book, and can't wait to read the remaining books in the series. Couldn't put it down, and loved that the characters were so well developed.

Thursday, September 29, 2011

Kiss Me, I'm Irish (Time For Love)

Kiss Me, I'm Irish (Time For Love) [Kindle Edition]

Bella Street (Author)

Kindle Price:$2.99 includes free international wireless delivery via Amazon Whispernet

 

 

 

Editorial Reviews

Product Description

Emily Musgrave is heading a direction she never wanted to go in Regency England--namely a convent to turn her from her waywardness. But it's more loneliness than rebellion that motivates her to escape her certain fate.
Liam Jackson is going nowhere fast in modern-day Tennessee. Playing his Dobro in seedy bars and backward dives along with his fiddling sister, Tinker, is doing nothing for his music career--and even less for the dark places in his soul.
Pixie mischief can not only change time-lines, it can change hearts. Because sometimes a girl just needs a little magic in her life.

 

From the Back Cover

In 1830, Emily Musgrave is heading to a convent for misbehavior. In modern-day Tennessee, Liam Jackson is playing his Dobro in seedy bars. It's doing nothing for his career and even less for the dark places in his soul.
Pixie mischief can not only change time-lines, it can change hearts. Because sometimes a girl just needs a little magic in her life.

 

Product Details

  • Format: Kindle Edition
  • File Size: 448 KB
  • Simultaneous Device Usage: Unlimited
  • Publisher: Firefly Press (April 19, 2011)
  • Sold by: Amazon Digital Services
  • Language: English
  • ASIN: B004XD1ZYK

 

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

By Diane Moody (Kingston Springs, TN United States) -
This review is from: Kiss Me, I'm Irish (Time For Love) (Kindle Edition)

I loved this story! Bella Street has told a tale spanning many centuries as her main character, feisty Emily Musgrave of Cornwall, takes an unexpected trip to the future. Plopped smack dab into the middle of a quick getaway scene with singer Liam Jackson and his quirker sister Tinker, Emily faces a whole new world . . . and all that comes with it. From riding behind Liam on a roaring contraption called a "motorcycle" to modern conveniences like hot running water and laundromats, Emily tags along with the unusual siblings as they make their way to Nashville and all the promises of Music City. But secrets revealed put the three at odds, even as a few other "appearances" by those from the past pop up here and there. This would make a GREAT movie, complete with a Celtic/blue grass soundtrack! Bring it on!

Love this story!, April 30, 2011

By Kinley Baker -

This review is from: Kiss Me, I'm Irish (Time For Love) (Kindle Edition)

Kiss Me, I'm Irish is light paranormal at its best. I couldn't help but fall for Liam. He immediately drew me in and made me want to root for him. Tinker is an awesome, modern character who contrasts the heroine, Emily, perfectly. Emily is a wayward young lady from Regency England. Thrown into modern life, her journey is one of self-discovery. She's a great heroine who keeps it pretty cool despite the time traveling, pixies and Liam. This story has plenty of twists. It was a fun read that made me laugh, smile and keep reading until the very end. I'd recommend Ms. Street to anyone looking for a great time travel romance.

Fast paced, clever and funny! Unputdownable!, May 11, 2011

By

Clare Havens "Clare Havens" -

This review is from: Kiss Me, I'm Irish (Time For Love) (Kindle Edition)

Bella Street has done the near impossible task of taking someone from a previous era and put them in the present day and made their voice and behaviour completely authentic without sounded cliched or forced in any way. I can only imagine the amount of research Bella had to undertake to write so knowledgeably about times gone by! This book is fast paced, clever and funny! I didn't want it to come to an end!! I highly recommend it!

Inheritance (The Inheritance Cycle)

Inheritance (The Inheritance Cycle) [Hardcover]

Christopher Paolini

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Product Description

Not so very long ago, Eragon—Shadeslayer, Dragon Rider—was nothing more than a poor farm boy, and his dragon, Saphira, only a blue stone in the forest. Now the fate of an entire civilization rests on their shoulders.
Long months of training and battle have brought victories and hope, but they have also brought heartbreaking loss. And still, the real battle lies ahead: they must confront Galbatorix. When they do, they will have to be strong enough to defeat him. And if they cannot, no one can. There will be no second chances.
The Rider and his dragon have come further than anyone dared to hope. But can they topple the evil king and restore justice to Alagaësia? And if so, at what cost?
This is the much-anticipated, astonishing conclusion to the worldwide bestselling Inheritance cycle.

Book Description

The much-anticipated, thrilling conclusion of the worldwide bestselling Inheritance cycle.

 

Product Details

  • Reading level: Young Adult
  • Hardcover: 704 pages
  • Publisher: Knopf Books for Young Readers (November 8, 2011)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 0375856110
  • ISBN-13: 978-0375856112

In the Garden of Temptation (The Garden Series Book 1)

In the Garden of Temptation (The Garden Series Book 1) [Kindle Edition]


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Editorial Reviews

Product Description

Special LOW PRICE for a LIMITED TIME! Lose yourself IN THE GARDEN OF TEMPTATION.
HONOR – Adam Stanford, Earl of Ashworth, has always done the right thing.
DESIRE – Lady Catherine Bourgeault, lonely and rejected, longs to experience passion, to love just once in her life.
TREACHERY – The Baron Bourgeault, to what extremes will an obsessive, unstable man go to achieve his own dark ends?
SEDUCTION – In the face of a love that will not be denied, Adam and Catherine risk everything to be together.
BETRAYAL – What price must Catherine and Adam pay for a forbidden love in a time when honor meant everything?
EXCERPT:
Catherine didn’t know if she wanted to tell Lord Ashworth about her retreat. She had come upon it not long after her marriage to Edgar, and it had offered her the only peace she was to know for a long time.
It was dangerous to share the only thing that belonged to one. Yet the thought of spending an afternoon with the earl in her most treasured place, sharing a leisurely meal, beckoned her. She glanced shyly over her shoulder to see if he still followed.
Lord Ashworth rode only a few yards behind her horse, and he grinned when their eyes met. He had a lazy, sensual smile and, when he looked at her like that, she felt an odd breathless catch in her throat. She wondered how it would feel if he were to place those warm lips to hers instead of the back of her hand.
Oh dear! There went that catch again.
Within moments they entered a clearing. Catherine dismounted without waiting for the earl’s assistance and swung her arms wide as she turned in a circle about the shaded copse.
“What do you think?” she asked.
The earl, still astride, cast his gaze slowly around the tiny glen as he studied the scenery. He then turned his attention to Catherine but did not speak. A suggestive grin broke the calm of his expression as he continued to watch her.
“More beautiful than I could have imagined,” he murmured.
Simple statement that, but it held a wealth of meaning. Catherine dropped her arms while staring back in fascination. Her mouth fell open and her breathing quickened. The air vibrated with unspoken words as they shared a moment of absolute understanding. The specter of desire had been brought into the open and was acknowledged.
Experience IN THE GARDEN OF TEMPTATION today. Meet characters you'll visit again in the other books in this series.
Bonus Material:
Excerpt from JUST ONE LOOK, Romantic Comedy by JOAN REEVES, now available on Amazon.
Excerpt from DESIGNING WOMAN and VIDEO VIXEN by ELAINE RACO CHASE, now available on Amazon.
Now Available on Amazon:
IN THE GARDEN OF SEDUCTION, Book 2 of The Garden Series.
IN THE GARDEN OF DISGRACE, Book 3 of The Garden Series.
IN THE GARDEN OF DECEIT, Book 4 of The Garden Series.
Just Released: THIEF OF SOULS
Dark and sensual, Thief of Souls is one man's battle with evil for the fate of his humanity. It is a modern vampire-esque romance, gothic in tone, with a twist on the "Beauty and the Beast" theme, for the beast's ugliness resides on the inside rather than the outside, and his hope for redemption comes not from being loved by another but from discovering his own ability to love.

Product Details

  • Format: Kindle Edition
  • File Size: 457 KB
  • Simultaneous Device Usage: Unlimited
  • Sold by: Amazon Digital Services
  • Language: English
  • ASIN: B004A8ZT9A

 

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

 A quite original & well-written, intricate story,

By Aly-oops! (NM, USA) -

Amazon Verified Purchase(

This review is from: In the Garden of Temptation (The Garden Series Book 1) (Kindle Edition)

A friend recommended this book to me, so although I wasn't completely sold on the story-line, I bought the book & read it in one day. I simply couldn't bring myself to put it down.
The summary is straight-forward enough. The Earl of Ashworth, Adam Stanford, is a good & honorable man who is enticed, by the promise of exceedingly well-bred twin horses, to the castle of the suspicious Baron Bourgeault. Instead of purchasing the outrageously priced pair, the Earl instead falls in love with the young & beautiful Baron's wife, Lady Catherine Bourgeault. A brief but impactful affair follows. The affair is resumed later when the Baron & his wife take up residency in London. But is this really a case of star-crossed love, or is there something...or someone...more sinister playing as puppet master?
I won't spoil it by telling anymore. Any reader will be able to piece things together pretty quickly. Despite a couple of cheesy exchanges between the lovers, the story is amazingly well-written & held me riveted for hours. I came to love the main characters, & despite my loathing for the villain, I couldn't outright hate him, even before the end. Suffice it to say, Wicklund's efforts at character development are grade A.
Though I wouldn't say this book is flawless, the originality of the story coupled with the steady character development earned 5 stars from me. Though there is sex in this title, it lacks the raunchiness found in many others. What is offered, instead, is a picture of two people who fall in love & are unable to find a way out while being hopelessly manipulated for another's gain.
Don't worry, though. Justice is always served.

In the Garden of Temptation: Emotional Keeper,

By Joan Reeves "It's never too late to live happ... (TX USA) -

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: In the Garden of Temptation (The Garden Series Book 1) (Kindle Edition)

In the Garden of Temptation by Cynthia Wicklund
Several weeks ago, I had the pleasure of interviewing Cynthia Wicklund on [..] and subsequently reviewed her first published novel Lord of Always on that blog and my other one [...]. I bemoaned the fact that she didn't have another book coming out any time soon. Apparently, I wasn't the only one who wanted more from her, and as soon as possible! Cynthia listened to the pleas of her eager new fans and has made her books of The Garden Series available as eBooks.
HARD TO BELIEVE
Readers, you'll find it hard to believe, but these evocative, emotional romance novels made the rounds of editors and agents for years without capturing a contract. They came close many times, and Cynthia finaled in Romance Writers of America's annual Golden Heart contest for unpublished writers, but the end result was a stack of "glowing" rejection letters. Their loss is our gain because we can buy these wonderful romance novels at such low prices.
STRONG BELIEF
Writers sometimes believe so strongly in the worth of a story that they don't give up, and that's a very good thing for readers because In the Garden of Temptation is a gem worthy of a place on your keeper shelf. Thankfully, eBook reader devices, like my Kindle on which I downloaded In the Garden of Temptation, Book 1 of The Garden Series, make the size of a keeper shelf immense. Let me tell you about this story.
NO SPOILERS
It's hard to tell what this story is about without revealing some neat twists, but I'll try.
Adam Stanford, Earl of Ashworth, is a man who is honorable and above reproach. He's always done the right thing. Then he meets the beautiful -- and married -- Lady Catherine Bourgeault, the beautiful, young wife of one of the most disreputable men in England.
Stunned by a passion and a love that no amount of conscience can deny, Catherine and Adam risk everything for a few moments of stolen bliss. Unknown to them, every event from their introduction to the consummation of their love has been orchestrated by Catherine's evil, demented husband for his own dark purpose.
When Baron Bourgeault finally springs his trap, Catherine is forced to break Adam's heart in order to save him. The baron whisks her away to his crumbling castle in the country. As he sinks deeper and deeper into his psychosis, Catherine knows that her life, and all she holds dear, may be forfeit unless the power of redeeming love can save her.
CHARGED EMOTION
I read this book while I sat in the surgical waiting room last week. My daughter was having her third surgery in 18 months, and I was a basket case who could hardly take the slow movement of the hands of the clock. A two hour surgery turned into four and continued. If I hadn't had this book to read, I don't know what I'd have done. I can hardly believe that Catherine and Adam's emotional journey captured my attention sufficiently as to calm my nerves and give me brief respite from worry, but it did. I devoured the book.
BOTTOM LINE
This is the second novel I've read by Cynthia Wicklund, and it's truly another winner. I can't recommend her books highly enough. She has a way with women characters and the knack for presenting them as likable and honorable even when they may not be engaged in honorable actions. I understand these women, and I like them.
Her talent with characters extends to men. In Lord of Always, she took an evil man and made him the kind of man we'd all want in our lives. In Temptation, she takes an honorable man and makes him behave dishonorably, but we don't care! We still like him. We understand how he is in the grip of a love he never expected to feel. We see his battle with his conscience. Despite what he does, he's heroic.
I'm off to purchase the next books in the series. Book 2 is In the Garden of Seduction, and Book 3 is In the Garden of Disgrace.
Of course, I'm going to buy the Kindle Editions, but you can get them in other formats or in Kindle for other apps, not just for the Kindle Reader. However you read; get this book, and make a place on your keeper shelf.

Burial To Follow

Burial To Follow [Kindle Edition]

Scott Nicholson

Digital List Price:$2.99

Kindle Price:$1.99 includes free international wireless delivery via Amazon Whispernet

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Product Description

"Like Stephen King, he knows how to summon serious scares."--Bentley Little
BURIAL TO FOLLOW
When Jacob Ridgehorn dies, it's up to Roby Snow to make sure his soul goes on to the eternal reward. The only way Roby can do that is convince the Ridgehorn family to eat a special pie. Lurking in the shadows is a mysterious figure named Johnny Divine, monitoring the crossroads between the living and the dead. Southern Appalachian funeral customs get crossed when Roby has to perform miracles...or else.
DRM-free and only 99 cents for a limited time. Novella of about 22,000 words. Originally published in the Cemetery Dance anthology "Brimstone Turnpike." Scott Nicholson is the bestselling Kindle author of the thrillers THE RED CHURCH, DRUMMER BOY, DISINTEGRATION, SPEED DATING WITH THE DEAD, and THE SKULL RING. Visit him at Author Central or www.hauntedcomputer.com
--------------------------
"Keep both hands on your pants, because Nicholson is about to scare them off."--J.A. Konrath, author of ORIGIN
"Scott Nicholson is the kind of writer who always surprises and always entertains."--Jonathan Maberry, author of Patient Zero and The Dragon Factory
"Lovecraft may have invented cosmic horror, but Nicholson brings it up close and personal."--Deborah LeBlanc, author of Morbid Curiosity
"Nicholson has moved into that literary shadow land between Ray Bradbury and Neil Gaiman."--Sharyn McCrumb, author of The Ballad novels

Product Details

  • Format: Kindle Edition
  • File Size: 477 KB
  • Simultaneous Device Usage: Unlimited
  • Publisher: Haunted Computer Books (December 22, 2009)
  • Sold by: Amazon Digital Services
  • Language: English
  • ASIN: B0031RHNZY

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

By Heather M "I'm not a fancy shmancy reviewer. ... (Midwest, USA) -

This review is from: Burial To Follow (Kindle Edition)

Awesome awesome book! Just what I've come to expect from Scott Nicholson.
I have this habit of trying to picture different scenarios in my head as I'm reading to see where an author is going with the storyline. Then I get my aha! I thought that was going to happen somewhere down the road.
I had no idea where Scott was going when I started this and I couldn't figure it out until I read it when I got to that point in the story. I hope Scott takes this as a complement when I say this book was so strange, but a great strange. I knew there was something going on with the food because Roby was fixated with food, but I never would have guessed what actually was behind the food. This was one of those, keep turning the page (or clicking the next button on my Kindle), don't put it down until you're done type of books.
This book starts out at the sitting for Jacob Ridgehorn and continues on through the viewing and the funeral. All of it revolving around Roby and the food and his thoughts on proper funeral procedure, which was actually kind of interesting. Tell me you haven't done it? Been in a somber situation, not able to believe the behavior of some who are there? He does give them leeway in his mind because they are grieving.
He sits through the bickering and manages to get everyone to eat the pie. What's in the pie? I can't tell you. You will never ever think of it yourself though.
I said this in my review of The Red Church, but I'll say it again. Scott Nicholson reminds me of some of the greats, Stephen King, Dean R Koontz, etc. This reminded me of some of Stephen King's shorter story. Not in the writing style, because that is all Scott's wonderful style, but in the suspense category. His stories are full of so much detail, you can easily picture it in your head, you can smell the food, see the congealed grease around the ham, the marshmallows on the sweet potato pie (I'm never eating pie at a funeral again, thank you very much Scott. :) ) This is just another great read from Scott Nicholson.

Fascinating, insightful, wicked, and humorous,January 14, 2010

By Christa Polkinhorn (Santa Monica, CA, USA) -

Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?)

This review is from: Burial To Follow (Kindle Edition)

Burial to Follow is the kind of fascinating story I have come to expect from Scott Nicholson: intriguing, suspenseful plot, vivid details, and an insightful depiction of human motives, yearnings, and desires. The perfect blend of real and surreal elements, of the macabre and the humorous makes for a delightful read. Scott's stories and novels have a local, Southern flair (and if you are interested in delicious Southern food, this is the story for you) but speak to readers everywhere. The mixture of true sorrow, barely contained greed, and hypocrisy which is part of so many family funerals and inheritance battles rings true, no matter where you live. And what a surprise ending! But for that you have to read the story.

Fools Rush In (Weddings by Bella, Book 1)

Fools Rush In (Weddings by Bella, Book 1)[Kindle Edition]

Janice Thompson


Digital List Price:$6.99

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Product Description

Bella Rossi may be nearing thirty, but her life is just starting to get interesting. When her Italian-turned-Texan parents hand over the family wedding planning business, Bella is determined not to let them down. She quickly books a "Boot Scoot'n" wedding that would make any Texan proud. There's only one catch--she's a country music numbskull because her family only listens to Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin. Where will she find a DJ on such short notice who knows his Alan Jackson from his Keith Urban?
When a misunderstanding leads her to the DJ (and man) of her dreams, things start falling into place. But with a family like hers, nothing is guaranteed. Can the perfect Texan wedding survive a pizza-making uncle with mob ties, an aunt who is a lawsuit waiting to happen, and a massive delivery of 80 cowboy boots? And will Bella ever get to plan her own wedding?
Book one in the Weddings by Bella series, Fools Rush In is fun, fresh, and full of surprises. Readers will love the flavorful combination of Italian and Tex-Mex, and the hilarity that ensues when cultures clash.

From the Inside Flap

EXCERPT FROM CATALOG: I glanced out of the window, my sights falling on a black Dodge 4 x 4 complete with chrome, mud flaps, oversized running boards, and those big tires that looked as if they were made merely for recycling as multi-person flotation devices. Not unusual in Texas, but more than a little out of place in our neck of the woods. I held my breath as the door swung open and Dwayne Neeley stepped out. "Whoa." My imagination hadn't done him justice. Tall. Check. Burly. Check. Five o'clock shadow. Check. I stopped checking after that, worried I might lose track of the reason for his visit. He drew a bit closer, and I took note of the fact that Sophia--who'd been sitting on our veranda next door--was now on her feet, giving him a solid once-over. Watch yourself, girl. As Dwayne ambled up the drive, the pointed toes of his boots moving in perfectly timed steps, my heart seemed to beat along in sync. After a few seconds of staring at his broad shoulders and rugged good looks, I sprinted to the front door, pausing only to double-check my appearance in the front-hall mirror before stepping out onto the veranda. Once there, I did my best to look calm and unassuming. A smile lit my cowboy deejay's handsome face as he climbed the stairs to meet me on the porch. My, but the boy was tall. "Dwayne Neeley?" I managed. "The one and only." He extended his right hand. I took it, but found it difficult to focus, because, now that we were within hand-shaking distance, something else stood out, something that totally threw me. His clothes were, well, dirty. And he had that same wet puppy smell Nick's boys always got when they'd been playing in the summer sun too long. And I was pretty sure he had--what was that, sawdust?--in his hair.

 

Product Details

  • Format: Kindle Edition
  • File Size: 1919 KB
  • Print Length: 336 pages
  • Publisher: Revell; 1 edition (September 1, 2009)
  • Sold by: Amazon Digital Services
  • Language: English
  • ASIN: B002LE87RQ

 

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

By Trisha's Book Blog "Trisha" (USA) -

This review is from: Fools Rush In (Weddings by Bella, Book 1) (Paperback)

This book was funny from the first page. I have never read a book with so much religion in it before, but that did not stop me from picking up this book. Just from reading the description on the back of the book, I knew that I had to read this. I love anything weddings, and a little bit of romance never hurts.
The book starts off with Bella's parents retiring from their wedding business. They have decided to give the business over to Bella, her first wedding is a boot scoot'n country wedding with cowboy boots as the centerpieces. There is only one problem, Bella is full blown Italian and her family has only ever done traditional weddings. But when Bella advertises that she is doing themed weddings she starts getting calls for some crazy weddings.
She meets DJ towards the beginning of the book when she hears a man talking about DJ on the phone, Bella thinks that this is a sign from God since she is looking for a deejay for the wedding she is planning. Get it, DJ is his name, she thinks he is a deejay. Let's just say that when DJ finds out that Bella wants him to be the DeeJay for the wedding, it turns into a very funny part of the book.
Bella's family is very close. They all live together, her Aunt, Uncle, Mom and Dad, and a couple siblings and are they funny! It reminds me of my family, there is always someone talking louder than someone else to be heard over everyone, and Holidays are even louder.
This is a must read for anyone who likes a little romance, and the love of family in a book.

A Light Hearted Fun Read, November 27, 2010

By Kara Isaac (Wellington, New Zealand) - See

This review is from: Fools Rush In (Weddings by Bella Series #1) (Paperback)

After reading all the glowing reviews here I had high hopes for this book. Perhaps too high!
First the good. As other reviewers have commented the Rossi family form a cast of lively, quirky and very funny laugh-out-loud characters. They swoop you up in one big embrace and carry you along the story as you flip the pages.
So why the three stars? Firstly, I found the book a little difficult to get into. I've owned if for over a year and after three failed attempts finally managed to crack my way past page 50. Personally, I think this was because I found those first fifty a little too much backstory, introspection and introductions and not enough action.
*Possible semi spoiler*
Secondly, I think I've realised I like my romances to have a few more obstacles. While trying not to spoil anything for future readers, if the feature romance had had a little more conflict and tension it would have definitely had me a bit more engaged. It was all just a little too easy and left me wishing they'd had to fight a little bit harder.
However, this is a lovely lighthearted read if that it what you're looking for.

Delicioso!, September 18, 2009

By Mocha with Linda (Texas, United States) -

This review is from: Fools Rush In (Weddings by Bella, Book 1) (Paperback)

What do you suppose happens when the Bella of a passionate & noisy Italian clan meets a Texas cowboy? Mamma mia! Something's bound to be cooking, and I don't just mean the pizza and BBQ!
Twenty-nine and single, Bella Rossi has taken over the management of her family's wedding facility and bridal consulting business and immediately changes its focus from traditional to themed weddings. The only flaw is that it's less than two weeks before her first event, a Boot-Scootin' western wedding, and she still has to lasso a deejay (along with a few other minor details, such as music, food, and centerpieces). That seems to be a daunting task until she overhears a customer at her uncle's pizzeria talking to a deejay and convinces him to give her his number (the deejay's, not the customer's). After Dwayne (or Duh-wayne, as he pronounces it!) arrives and the initial meeting with her and the couple getting married takes an unexpected turn, Bella falls for him - literally, in a fainting heap at his feet.
As plans proceed and then the event itself occurs, Bella tries to find the balance between giving her all to prove her capability and relying on God to guide her steps. There are plenty of amusing - and horrifying! - mishaps along the way, as well as lots of family drama. Will Dwayne "head for the hills" or will he add a little flavor of his own to her family? And what will happen when her rowdy relatives meet Dwayne's own down-home, small-town family? This humorous and engaging tale adds sparks and gives new meaning to the term "melting pot". And it made me hungry! I look forward to Bella's next adventure as she plans a medieval-themed wedding in Swinging on a Star, due out in January.

Stuck in the Middle (Sister-to-Sister, Book 1)

Stuck in the Middle (Sister-to-Sister, Book 1)[Paperback]

Virginia Smith

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Editorial Reviews

From Publishers Weekly

Smith (Just As I Am) provides all the standard elements of inspirational chick lit in this first installment of the Sister-to-Sister series. Joan has been dumped by her long-term boyfriend, lives at home, has an unexciting job and can't quite figure out what to do with her life, until a single doctor (who is of course terribly good-looking and very serious about his faith) moves in next door. As the title suggests, Joan is the middle daughter and feels dwarfed by her older sister's happy family and her younger sister's beauty and success. She struggles with feeling abandoned by her father and angry that her mother forced him to leave when she was young. She wonders if there's more depth to her faith than she initially thought, and learns more about God from her new doctor friend. And she tries hard to take care of her elderly grandmother to prevent her from being sent to an assisted living home, though that may prove to be the best place for her after all. Naturally, this is the realm of happy endings, and readers won't be disappointed. The sisters are spirited and fun, and if the story takes a while to get going, it soon quickens the pace and entertains. (Feb.)
Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Product Description

Joan Sanderson's life is stuck. Her older sister, Allie, is starting a family and her younger sister, Tori, has a budding career. Meanwhile, Joan is living at home with Mom and looking after her aging grandmother. Not exactly a recipe for excitement. That is, until a hunky young doctor moves in next door. Suddenly Joan has a goal--to get a date. But it won't be easy. Pretty Tori flirts relentlessly with him and Joan is sure that she can't compete. But with a little help from God, Allie, and an enormous mutt with bad manners, maybe Joan can find her way out of this rut.
Book 1 of the Sister-to-Sister series, Stuck in the Middle combines budding romance, spiritual searching, and a healthy dose of sibling rivalry.

Product Details

  • Paperback: 336 pages
  • Publisher: Revell; Reprinted edition (February 1, 2008)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 0800732324
  • ISBN-13: 978-0800732325
  • Product Dimensions: 8.6 x 5.7 x 0.9 inches

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

169 of 175 people found the following review helpful:

 Virginia Smith lives up to her newly won title of Writer of the Year (Mount Herman Writer's Conference) in Stuck In The Middle,March 25, 2008

By Susan Sleeman "Host of The Christian Suspense... -

This review is from: Stuck in the Middle (Sister-to-Sister, Book 1) (Paperback)

Stuck In The Middle is an aptly named book revolving around Joan Sanderson--whose life has been put on hold while she looks out for her Grandma, who is wedged between sisters that Joan thinks are far more gregarious and personable than she is, and who is stuck in a superficial relationship with God. Stuck, that is, until a handsome, single doctor with an intensely personal relationship with God rents the house next-door and involuntarily drags Joan out of her rut.
As Joan struggles to break free, the reader is blessed with the genuine interactions between sisters, and family as a whole that Smith has woven into the story line so well. The dialogue is strong and realistic, the situations true to life and sometimes quite comical, and Joan, though a dejected character in many ways, is likeable and one you cheer for right from the beginning.
This alone would have made the book an enjoyable read, but Smith along with entertaining the reader reinforces the need for a personal relationship with God. She takes Joan, a Christian who has had a superficial relationship with God into discovering how to connect on a deeper level. Smith also does an excellent job of portraying the fear that Joan's sisters have of the kind of Christian Joan wants to become simply because they don't understand it.
Stuck In The Middle is not different than many other Christian fiction titles in that is has a spiritual message, but often, that message is dealt with in heavy handed and stilted way. Not Stuck In The Middle. This is the sort of book that while you read it you find yourself pleasantly entertained, seriously not wanting to put the book down even when you should be doing other things, and in the end you are surprised when you come away with a strong spiritual message.
Stuck In The Middle has something for everyone--romance, shopping, dating advice, sibling rivalry, family and spiritual relationships, and real life issues like caring for elderly family members all wrapped up in an entertaining package. Pick it up, today. You won't be disappointed.

Beware : overly christian content, December 1, 2010

By North (Canada) -

Amazon Verified Purchase(

This review is from: Stuck in the Middle (Sister-to-Sister, Book 1) (Kindle Edition)

Joan, the middle sister, feels overshadowed by her two, more succesful sisters. She still lives with her grandmother and her mother, does a job that bores her and has been jilted by her fiance. Also, she still misses her father, gone since her parents' divorce.
The grandmother is getting old and there is talk of moving her to a assisted-living facility, something Joan is vehemently against.
A young doctor, Ken Fletcher, moves next door. Joan is interested in him but so is her younger sister. Who will he choose ?
I am sure that the christian content (some of the book is about Joan's seach for God) will be appreciated by some. For me, it was just too much of a good thing. I don't want to preached to when I'm reading romance novels.
But mainly, I found Joan really annoying. She spends most of the book complaining (about her name, the fact that she is quiet, her job, and even her relationship with God) and feeling sorry for herself. Ken is not much better. He almost rejects Joan because she does not seem religious enough. I found the scenes where the two sisters flirt and buy new clothes to attrack Ken corny and childish. You should'nt have to gilt the lily to be appreciated. I kept waiting for Joan to get a grip and grow-up.
I'm happy I got it free and would not pay for other novels by the same author.

Stuck in the Middle (Sister-to-Sister, Book 1)

Stuck in the Middle (Sister-to-Sister, Book 1)[Kindle Edition]


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Editorial Reviews

From Publishers Weekly

Smith (Just As I Am) provides all the standard elements of inspirational chick lit in this first installment of the Sister-to-Sister series. Joan has been dumped by her long-term boyfriend, lives at home, has an unexciting job and can't quite figure out what to do with her life, until a single doctor (who is of course terribly good-looking and very serious about his faith) moves in next door. As the title suggests, Joan is the middle daughter and feels dwarfed by her older sister's happy family and her younger sister's beauty and success. She struggles with feeling abandoned by her father and angry that her mother forced him to leave when she was young. She wonders if there's more depth to her faith than she initially thought, and learns more about God from her new doctor friend. And she tries hard to take care of her elderly grandmother to prevent her from being sent to an assisted living home, though that may prove to be the best place for her after all. Naturally, this is the realm of happy endings, and readers won't be disappointed. The sisters are spirited and fun, and if the story takes a while to get going, it soon quickens the pace and entertains. (Feb.)
Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

 

Product Description

Joan Sanderson's life is stuck. Her older sister, Allie, is starting a family and her younger sister, Tori, has a budding career. Meanwhile, Joan is living at home with Mom and looking after her aging grandmother. Not exactly a recipe for excitement. That is, until a hunky young doctor moves in next door. Suddenly Joan has a goal--to get a date. But it won't be easy. Pretty Tori flirts relentlessly with him and Joan is sure that she can't compete. But with a little help from God, Allie, and an enormous mutt with bad manners, maybe Joan can find her way out of this rut.
Book 1 of the Sister-to-Sister series, Stuck in the Middle combines budding romance, spiritual searching, and a healthy dose of sibling

Product Details

  • Format: Kindle Edition
  • File Size: 1799 KB
  • Print Length: 336 pages
  • Publisher: Revell (February 1, 2008)
  • Sold by: Amazon Digital Services
  • Language: English

 

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

By Susan Sleeman "Host of The Christian Suspense...

This review is from: Stuck in the Middle (Sister-to-Sister, Book 1) (Paperback)

Stuck In The Middle is an aptly named book revolving around Joan Sanderson--whose life has been put on hold while she looks out for her Grandma, who is wedged between sisters that Joan thinks are far more gregarious and personable than she is, and who is stuck in a superficial relationship with God. Stuck, that is, until a handsome, single doctor with an intensely personal relationship with God rents the house next-door and involuntarily drags Joan out of her rut.
As Joan struggles to break free, the reader is blessed with the genuine interactions between sisters, and family as a whole that Smith has woven into the story line so well. The dialogue is strong and realistic, the situations true to life and sometimes quite comical, and Joan, though a dejected character in many ways, is likeable and one you cheer for right from the beginning.
This alone would have made the book an enjoyable read, but Smith along with entertaining the reader reinforces the need for a personal relationship with God. She takes Joan, a Christian who has had a superficial relationship with God into discovering how to connect on a deeper level. Smith also does an excellent job of portraying the fear that Joan's sisters have of the kind of Christian Joan wants to become simply because they don't understand it.
Stuck In The Middle is not different than many other Christian fiction titles in that is has a spiritual message, but often, that message is dealt with in heavy handed and stilted way. Not Stuck In The Middle. This is the sort of book that while you read it you find yourself pleasantly entertained, seriously not wanting to put the book down even when you should be doing other things, and in the end you are surprised when you come away with a strong spiritual message.
Stuck In The Middle has something for everyone--romance, shopping, dating advice, sibling rivalry, family and spiritual relationships, and real life issues like caring for elderly family members all wrapped up in an entertaining package. Pick it up, today. You won't be disappointed.

Characters Sparkle in "Stuck in the Middle", August 21, 2008

By Keep Smiling "Smilie1" (Utah) -

This review is from: Stuck in the Middle (Sister-to-Sister, Book 1) (Paperback)

Viginia Smith does it again in "Stuck in the Middle". Her characters are realistic, artfully crafted, and endearingly flawed (aren't we all?) and will pull you right into the story from page 1. Here's a warning, though -- don't give the book as a gift unless you're prepared for trouble. Now I have several friends calling to complain that they're chomping at the bit to read the next installment in the series. Please bring us book 2 soon!!!

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