Catherine Lanigan's romance, Home for Christmas, brings to mind decisions and regrets, as well as tragedy and second chances. And as we follow the jouCatherine Lanigan's romance, Home for Christmas, brings to mind decisions and regrets, as well as tragedy and second chances. And as we follow the journey Joy Boston makes back to her hometown after the death of her grandfather, we get a sense of how difficult second-chance decisions can be.
Taking a temporary leave of her career and fiance in New York and being reunited with her high school boyfriend, Adam Masterson, Joy is already experiencing mixed emotions, and striving to revive the old greenhouse her grandfather left her rekindles feelings, not only for Adam, but for other relationships in the community as well. As they work together to bring the greenhouse back to life, we're given an idea of how much work goes into preparing a business, and of how many varieties of poinsettias there are.
Lanigan always gets to the heart of the matter in her Indian Lake novels, and Home for Christmas is no exception as Joy and Adam consider their past, present, and future. It's a perfect read for the holidays, since it encompasses both Thanksgiving and Christmas....more
Karen Rock's excellent writing never disappoints, but A Cowboy's Pride might be my favorite book in her Rocky Mountain Cowboys series. The previous thKaren Rock's excellent writing never disappoints, but A Cowboy's Pride might be my favorite book in her Rocky Mountain Cowboys series. The previous three novels have centered on the Cade clan in Carbondale, Colorado, with an emphasis on their feud with the Lovelands--a ranching family nearby--but this one shows the dispute from the Lovelands' point of view. It's an interesting change, causing the reader to wonder what really happened to Maggie, Everett, and Cora's Tear--a missing jewel in the center of the mystery.
The story begins with Katlynn Brennon on the set of her popular show, Scandalous History, wondering if the trappings of show business and fame are worth the hassle. But when she learns that her career might be in danger, she comes up with a solution that could help or hurt the ancient feud--and her relationship with former fiance, Cole Loveland--when she decides to take her Los Angeles film crew back to her hometown of Carbondale.
The Lovelands are on the brink of losing their ranch, so when their father is offered a sizeable sum in exchange for their time, he has no choice but to comply, even though he and Joy Cade are supposed to be married soon--a feat no one in the family would have imagined a few years earlier. Filming Scandalous History could stir up trouble, or it could help to solve the controversy that created the longest-running family feud in America. A Cowboy's Pride is filled with suspense and intrigue, as well as mystery, and it's easy to get swept up in the drama of the three love stories featured in Karen Rock's well-written novel....more
When it comes to realistic behavior and human emotions, Karen Rock doesn't disappoint, and the third book in her Rocky Mountain Cowboys series, Bad BoWhen it comes to realistic behavior and human emotions, Karen Rock doesn't disappoint, and the third book in her Rocky Mountain Cowboys series, Bad Boy Rancher, is no exception. Even from the beginning of this story, which takes place in Carbondale, Colorado, the reader is aware of the angst Justin Cade is experiencing because of the death of his twin, Jesse, a few years earlier. He can't get past the feeling that it was partly his fault, and it's their birthday, which always seems to cause the negative feelings to resurface, although they never seem to be far from his mind. On this particular day, Justin feels the need to outrun his torment by zooming down the road on his Harley, but as he speeds into the black night, he meets his fate.
Brielle Thompson, having been honorably discharged from service as an army chaplain in Afghanistan, is in Carbondale to start a rehabilitation center, but she's not sure that the community will accept such a facility. The fact that she suffers from PTSD could make her more sympathetic to those struggling with addiction or other problems--if the center is allowed to remain--but she needs to be on the road to recovery herself.
Justin must attend a hearing because he was driving his motorcycle while under the influence of alcohol, and when he's forced to choose either a jail sentence or six weeks at the facility, he eventually opts for the latter, even though he refuses to believe that Brielle or anyone else can pull him out of his slump. Fireworks of different types take place more than once as the two work out their differences and their problems while trying to keep the center open, and the author delves deep into the human psyche in order to express the emotions Justin, Brielle, and others feel throughout this Rocky Mountain Cowboy journey, providing a compelling and informative read....more
Grace Railton, a beauty pageant queen turned successful fashion designer, travels to Indian Lake from Paris to help her Aunt Louise with her ice creamGrace Railton, a beauty pageant queen turned successful fashion designer, travels to Indian Lake from Paris to help her Aunt Louise with her ice cream shop, which she has done many times in the past. This time, however, she's not alone. After a whirlwind romance the year before with her longtime crush, Mica Barzonni, she has a favor to ask. Her business has really taken off, and she needs his help with Jules--his son. Obviously not taking into account the shock Mica will experience when she shows up with the child he didn't know he had, she's taken aback at his reaction. And to make matters worse, Grace is certain that Mica, with his brooding, solitary nature, is incapable of loving anyone.
But the fact that Grace kept Jules a secret for so long isn't the only reason Mica isn't overjoyed to see her. An accident involving a car jack has left one of his arms numb, greatly limiting his ability to function on the family farm. This adds to his despondency, but after spending time with Grace and learning about her hard work and creativity, he's inspired to consider other avenues. There are many issues and complications the couple must work through in this story, and Catherine Lanigan does a realistic job of conveying Mica's and Grace's emotions throughout their ordeal with her excellent writing and vivid descriptions. ...more
A former drug addict and single mother, Sophia is at her wit's end. Not only was Jesse, the father of her five-year-old son, killed in a drug-related A former drug addict and single mother, Sophia is at her wit's end. Not only was Jesse, the father of her five-year-old son, killed in a drug-related incident two years earlier, but Sophia has been evicted from her apartment. Her only hope is that a move to Portland, Oregon will be a fresh beginning. But first, she needs to visit Carbondale, Colorado to fulfill the wishes of Jesse's mother, Joy, who desires to meet her only grandson.
What she doesn't count on, however, is losing her wallet before she arrives at Cade Ranch. But since Joy needs help around the house during the holidays, spending Christmas with the Cade clan seems a viable solution. Will the family accept her and Javi without Jesse? She's relieved that they seem to feel as if part of Jesse is still with them, since Javi is his son, but Sophia fears she does not hold the approval of James, the eldest of the grown Cade children.
Living on her own from an early age, Sophia is enthralled by the Cades' relationships with each other, and she hopes Javi will finally have the Christmas she's always wanted to give him. But she can't get past James' serious nature and what she perceives as suspicion on his part. This, along with an ancient feud the Cades have with the Lovelands--their less than stellar neighbors--complicates Javi's and Sophia's stay, wreaking havoc in her heart.
As usual, Karen Rock keeps the reader engaged with her descriptive writing and realistic, no-holds-barred portrayal of circumstantial human behavior. She also offers possible avenues of resolution, making the reading of Christmas at Cade Ranch a meaningful learning experience as well as a gratifying journey.
Anyone who loves art will be intrigued by Kate James' romance novel, A Priceless Find, as she takes us to the small town of Camden Falls via Chelsea OAnyone who loves art will be intrigued by Kate James' romance novel, A Priceless Find, as she takes us to the small town of Camden Falls via Chelsea Owens. An employee of Sinclair Art Gallery, she's one of the first on the scene when the jewelry store next door is robbed early one morning. Little was taken, and many valuable pieces are left behind. So what was the motive? That's what the police, including Detective Sam Eldridge, want to know. And although he's somewhat annoyed with the way Chelsea barges into the crime scene to make sure the owner isn't seriously injured, Sam quickly develops a soft spot for her as the investigation continues.
It's suspected that there is a link between the jewelry store theft and the art gallery, so Sam decides to visit an exhibit there, in case it's the next target. Running into Chelsea again, he admires her love and knowledge of art, even though he's lacking in that area, and he can't deny his attraction to her.
The case is complicated, causing suspicions to flit from one person to another, creating a roller coaster ride for Chelsea's relationship with Sam, especially when she sneaks into a warehouse filled with possibly incriminating evidence. But will it still be there when the authorities arrive? Who can Chelsea trust? Nothing is certain in this involved novel that keeps the reader guessing until the end.
The author's knowledge of art dealings is impressive, as she explains the channels each piece must go through before being sold, and the authentication necessary to determine that it's not a forgery.
If you're ready to delve into the art world with an excellent writer as your guide, pick up a copy of A Priceless Find.
Who would expect to wake up early in the morning during a camping trip to find that his or her son has vanished? Certainly not Sawyer Evans. The all-eWho would expect to wake up early in the morning during a camping trip to find that his or her son has vanished? Certainly not Sawyer Evans. The all-encompassing grief he feels as he frantically searches for Dylan conveys to the reader how much he cares for his son, and when it's discovered that Dylan was kidnapped, suspicion immediately falls on felons Sawyer had put away years earlier as a District Attorney. It's a double tragedy for Sawyer, since he lost his wife, Jeannette, three years earlier after she disappeared without a trace, and the question arises: Could there be a connection?
Rookie cop, Shannon Clemons, is determined to find Dylan, even while dealing with her own haunting experience concerning a lost child, but what she doesn't expect is her feelings for Sawyer. Is it simply because she understands his grief, or is it something more? Several scenarios seem possible concerning the plights of Dylan and Jeannette, and but Shannon keeps striving for the truth.
Kate James is a master of intrigue, and Home to Stay will keep you on the edge of your seat as she brings to light the agony of kidnappings and steps that can be taken to solve these crimes. Revealing much knowledge concerning the police department and canine search-and-rescue, she skillfully weaves it into her complex plot. For a romantic mystery that's difficult to put down, pick up a copy of Kate James's Home to Stay.
Kate James takes us to Sanctuary Cove via Emma Meadows--a former resident of New York City--pulling us into the story right away with her vivid descriKate James takes us to Sanctuary Cove via Emma Meadows--a former resident of New York City--pulling us into the story right away with her vivid descriptions. And although it begins on a dark note, the tale soon emerges into the light after Emma meets Joshua Whitmore, a young veterinarian in the area. They're drawn together partly because of their love for animals, but Emma is hesitant to consider a relationship in the near future after a less-than-friendly breakup with her fiance. Unfortunately, she lost her job with a giant communications agency at the same time.
With only freelance work to support her, she's already unsure about her future. And add to that a complicated situation involving a senator and serious allegations, and Emma's confidence begins to wane. A sense of danger permeates the book as the reader fears for the safety of Emma, Josh, and others, especially when threatening phone calls are received.
But who is posing the danger? Is it the senator's people or Josh's ex-girlfriend, who couldn't seem to let go? Either way, Emma and Josh try to work out their relationship amid these distractions while an impending trial looms over them. It's difficult for Emma to know exactly who to believe and trust, but she's determined to hold onto her values.
Throughout the book, we're treated to descriptions of Emma's property, which consists of a forested area complete with a river and lake, and we get an idea of how much nature means to her, Josh, and their dogs. It has a great calming effect on them, and Emma wonders if she can leave it if she has to return to the city to find work.
Sanctuary Cove is a gripping story involving right and wrong, and the love of nature and animals. I would highly recommend this suspense-filled adventure to anyone who is looking for a well-written book that's intriguing until the end....more
With a tavern to run and his mother and younger siblings to care for, Aiden Walsh can't find enough hours in the day. Then why does he agree to go to With a tavern to run and his mother and younger siblings to care for, Aiden Walsh can't find enough hours in the day. Then why does he agree to go to the Adirondack Mountains for a few weeks with his brother and a group of students? Because it might be Connor's only hope for staying in school. Rebecca Day, one of Connor's teachers, highly recommends the trip, and even though Aiden disagrees with her discipline methods, there's something about her he can't resist.
And Rebecca has enough problems of her own, including the possibility of losing her job as school psychologist. Nevertheless, she's determined to help fourteen-year-old Connor and the other teens who accompany her to the mountains. If things go well, she might be given tenure to secure her position at the school.
As usual, Karen Rock makes the reader feel as if he/she is in the story, and her description of the transition from city to nature is inspiring. It doesn't take long for the healing properties of the mountains to have an effect on the group, but it's a long journey from rebellion to peace. The author obviously has knowledge in this area, citing reasons for misbehavior, along with solutions.
As Rebecca and Aiden work together for a common goal, they realize their viewpoints aren't as different as they thought. But can a romance bloom in the midst of so much doubt and with so much on the line? Under an Adirondack Sky is a well-written, thought provoking read with heart that anyone interested in family or romance will enjoy.
Basically everyone can identify with the beginning of Amy Vastine's novel, The Girl He Used to Know. Stranded on a country road in Tennessee, Dean Pre Basically everyone can identify with the beginning of Amy Vastine's novel, The Girl He Used to Know. Stranded on a country road in Tennessee, Dean Presley trudges through the rain to Sundown Bar and Grill in Grass Lake. He just wants to call his business partner to come take him to Nashville, but he ends up in a whirlwind adventure that will change his life.
For one thing, it's not just some random town he wanders into--it's his hometown. But since he hasn't been there in twelve years, he feels like a stranger. Even his former sweetheart, Faith Stratton, seems uneasy when she recognizes him--especially considering the way they left things more than a decade ago.
But as awkward as the situation is, Dean feels as if he's hit the jackpot when Faith's brother, Sawyer, gets on the stage and sings. He's just what Dean has been looking for. As someone in the music business, Dean wants to make Sawyer a star. It seems simple enough to Dean, but the situation is complicated--especially since Faith depends on her brother to help with the horse farm their father left them. And in addition to that, Faith and Dean blame themselves, and perhaps each other, for the death of Dean's sister, Addison.
Ms. Vastine pulls the reader into the story right away, evoking questions concerning Addison. Will Dean and Faith be able to push the past back where it belongs and recapture what they once had? Perhaps a secret they know nothing about will make a difference. ...more
"Heartwarming" is a perfect word for Catherine Lanigan's novel, Sophie's Path, especially since it deals with difficult subjects such as drug addictio"Heartwarming" is a perfect word for Catherine Lanigan's novel, Sophie's Path, especially since it deals with difficult subjects such as drug addiction. The author pulls the reader into the story right away, and her knowledge in this area, as well as hospital procedures, makes the situations seem almost real.
Jack Carter meets Sophie Mattuchi in an unlikely situation: When he's in the hospital after a car accident. And even though she cares for him as his nurse, events which transpire shortly afterward shake up their lives, putting them at odds with each other, and causing them to take a long look at who they are and how they live.
For most of her life, Sophie has been known as a flirt, and although she's had numerous dates, she hasn't been serious with any of the men in her life. Friendships with women, however, have been almost nonexistent outside of her family, since she finds men more interesting than women. Sophie is dedicated to her work, which is good in some ways, but something is missing from her existence.
A successful insurance agent, Jack is dedicated to his work also, and he feels that love and marriage are for other people, but not for him. The combination of these elements makes a relationship between Jack and Sophie seem almost impossible, and the author takes the reader on a meandering journey of speculation, along with Jack and Sophie, to finding fulfillment in life....more
When chief of security Ariana Atkins learns that a Boeing 767 is on its way back to the San Diego International Airport shortly after takeoff, there'sWhen chief of security Ariana Atkins learns that a Boeing 767 is on its way back to the San Diego International Airport shortly after takeoff, there's no way she could predict all that would transpire in the next few days. And neither would the two young women who caused the plane headed for Barbados to turn around. The first question in everyone's minds is, "How did those girls get onto the plane in the first place?"
Having worked at the airport for about a year, Ariana had tightened security, so it didn't make sense that two inebriated people would be allowed onboard the plane. And when another breach surfaces, Ariana knows something is amiss. A security video reveals that an employee is causing problems, and Ariana has no choice but to fire him for leaving a secure door open. It was difficult for her to do, but afterward she feels sure everything is straightened out. Unfortunately, that's not the case.
One positive result of these incidents is Ariana's becoming acquainted with Logan O'Conner, captain of the police K-9 Unit. She feels an immediate attraction to him, even though he's not in the greatest of moods the day they meet, and she soon learns that the feeling is mutual and accompanies him for drinks after his second visit to the terminal. They hit it off right away, but Ariana keeps wondering about a phone conversation she overheard between Logan and someone name Becca. Did he already have a girlfriend?
While Ariana ponders whether or not to accept Logan's invitation to dinner some evening, she has an opportunity to get to know him better at work. Things have settled down, but on Monday morning she finds an envelope on her desk. Thinking it's not significant, she opens it to find a note threatening the security of the airport. Ariana has grown accustomed to idle threats, but somehow she knows this one is real.
The airport is put on alert, and Logan returns with his dog, Boomer, who's trained to detect explosives. During the search, an explosion rocks the building. There are no injuries, but the message is received: Someone is challenging their security system. And as the problems and investigation continue, the chance that Ariana and Logan will get together becomes even more slim. Could the jobs which brought them together ultimately keep them apart?
Kate James did an excellent job of describing airport security and K-9 operations in her riveting novel, which I would recommend to anyone who desires an exciting read along with romance. ...more
Karen Rock has opened up yet another realm for her readers with her deep, heart-felt writing, this time taking us into the world of ranching and bull Karen Rock has opened up yet another realm for her readers with her deep, heart-felt writing, this time taking us into the world of ranching and bull riding via Claire Shelton and Tanner Hayes. Tanner is a successful bull rider with lots of fans, but just how much did he give up for his dream? Success alone won't keep him warm at night. Doubts concerning his ten-year-long career are jarred awake when he literally runs into his ex-girlfriend, Claire.
Their trucks collide at an intersection and they are re-acquainted, but Tanner was already on his way to the ranch Claire shares with her father. Recovering from an injury, Tanner doesn't mind taking time out to work at Denton Creek Ranch, hoping to save it, but Claire is slow to accept his offer. She feels he causes problems when he's around, and she's terrified that he will find out her secret.
The author's effortless writing style makes it easy for the reader to imagine the story, and the details concerning both Tanner's and Claire's professions are impressive. Their emotions are conveyed through their actions as well as their thoughts, and we realize right away how strong these two characters are. Claire is fiercely independent, never wanting to accept a favor from anyone, but she loves her family and the husband who was taken from her. Could there be room in her heart for the person who has hurt her the most?
Tanner is immediately likable, with his strong cowboy good looks, but he'd always thought all he could do was ride bulls. Working on the ranch causes him to wonder if everyone was wrong about him and he can achieve more.
The deeper I delved into the novel, the more intrigued I felt, wondering if Tanner and Claire would be able to work around all of the obstacles concerning the ranch, Tanner's career, and their relationship. His Kind of Cowgirl is definitely an enriching reading experience I would highly recommend to anyone who enjoys romance....more
Be prepared to be swept up to Mirror Lake Lodge in Lake Placid, New York--the perfect setting for WINTER WEDDING BELLS: The Kiss/The Wish/The Promise.Be prepared to be swept up to Mirror Lake Lodge in Lake Placid, New York--the perfect setting for WINTER WEDDING BELLS: The Kiss/The Wish/The Promise. A collection of stories by celebrated authors Karen Rock, Kristine Rolofson, and Jennifer Snow, this novel reveals the plights of three young women seeking the love of their lives. Two former relationships and a new one create scenarios with unpredictable outcomes, and we're allowed into the worlds of Julie, Grace, and Alexis for a little while. And although each drama has its own plot, the lodge and shared relationships cause them to intertwine.
Julie is days away from her Christmas wedding, and everything is perfect. Or is it? A case of cold feet might actually be her heart speaking, especially when she runs into Austin, her ex-boyfriend. Will a wedding occur as planned, or will that past relationship turn everything upside down?
And what about Grace? She constantly resists the advances of Nico--a famous, handsome chef she works with at the lodge, but he refuses to give up. Maybe she just needs a little assistance in order to give him a chance. And when Alexis finally finds her way to the lodge, she can't seem to avoid her old flame, Liam. Since she doesn't seem to be able to avoid him, will they work out the differences which have kept them apart for eight years? Anything can happen at Mirror Lake Lodge.
The descriptive writing in this book makes me wish I could be in Lake Placid, and I especially enjoyed the way Karen Rock paints pictures with words, making me feel as if I'm actually trying to ski or luge in that winter wonderland. If anyone is looking for a cozy romance to read this Christmas season, I would say these three outstanding authors and their heroines make WINTER WEDDING BELLS an excellent choice....more
Kate James' short story, The Firefighter's Promise, explicitly expresses the dangers and plights of motorcycle accidents, as well as the problems whicKate James' short story, The Firefighter's Promise, explicitly expresses the dangers and plights of motorcycle accidents, as well as the problems which can result from an unhappy home situation. When Jax (short for Jacqueline) is involved in one because of a careless driver, she must struggle to recover, not only from the injuries she sustained, but from the wrecked home life she had endured her entire life.
With only her six-year-old half-brother to love, Jax has little hope in her life--until Ryan Hudson comes on the scene. For reasons he can't fully explain, he finds himself at her bedside day after day, offering encouragement and gifts. And even after Jax is able to go home, he gives her understanding and care she's never had before.
Perhaps her first thanksgiving dinner and exposure to a real family will help her to open her heart to others and find true love. ...more
I was immediately drawn into Kate James' newest novel, When Love Matters Most, and my enthusiasm lasted all the way through to the last page. The authI was immediately drawn into Kate James' newest novel, When Love Matters Most, and my enthusiasm lasted all the way through to the last page. The author's excellent writing style conveys to us an intriguing story concerning the plight of a narcotics officer working with a K-9 dog named Sniff. Haunted by a childhood trauma, Rick Vasquez has a heart for kids who have been forced to deal drugs, and he also visits schools in an effort to warn youth about the dangers of these substances.
A drug bust gone bad is the beginning of a virtual war between the police and the cartels, and Rick rescues an injured officer's dog in the aftermath of a trap. Taking Zeke to Mission Bay Veterinary Clinic, Rick meets Madison Long, but he fails to make a good first impression. Fortunately for him, because of the nature of his work and hers, he gets another chance.
Madison has a dog of her own, and she has dedicated her life to caring for and rehabilitating animals. The daughter of a Supreme Court judge, she has distinct values and strong work ethics, as well as a great respect for policemen and their dogs, which makes a relationship with Rick a natural fit. But will her strict adherence to the law and the sensitive nature of Rick's work come between them? They have some issues they need to work out, and the extreme circumstances of the battle with the cartels makes this even more difficult.
The author shows knowledge concerning K-9 Units, and she has artfully woven police business together with a romantic story. When Love Matters Most is a book that's difficult to put down, and I can honestly say this is my favorite of the Kate James novels I've read so far....more
Why would a dog who looks like a German shepherd but is actually from Holland have a baseball card? It's really quite simple. Scout is a search and reWhy would a dog who looks like a German shepherd but is actually from Holland have a baseball card? It's really quite simple. Scout is a search and rescue dog who has helped to save lives. Working with the San Diego Police Department's K-9 unit, Scout is Calen Palmer's canine partner. We're introduced to the pair right after a massive earthquake in San Diego. As first responders, Cal and Scout put themselves in a dangerous position in order to save victims from the quake, and Cal is seriously injured. Sent to Ocean Crest Hospital, he receives care from Jessica Hansen, a trauma surgeon, but he doesn't make the best impression.
Cal is ordered to stay off his leg for at least a couple of weeks, but that means he can't give Scout the exercise he needs. Cal asks his brother, Drew, to take care of him for a few days, but Drew has no control over the dog, so one night is all he can handle. Jessica had a way with Scout when she was treating Cal, so he asks her to take him for a while. Thus begins a friendship which grows into something more, but doubts and fears plague the couple, sending their relationship into a turmoil.
This well-written novel depicts the problems and dangers which can occur after an earthquake, as well as rescue operations, and the author also shows knowledge concerning K-9 dogs. I would recommend When the Right One Comes Along to anyone who is interested in action and romance. ...more