I can't resist the J.D. Robb books - I drove to the Tuxedo Park library to pick this one up yesterday, and I'd finished it by dinner time!
Origin in Death by J.D. Robb
(2005, Suspense) 6/25/05
Grade: 4
Eve and Peabody are back, investigating the death of a pioneering plastic surgeon. On the surface, he seems to be a perfect saint - devoted to his work and his family - but Eve wonders what he may be hiding underneath. What she finds will shock everyone.
The usual J.D. Robb formula, but it kept me turning the pages. The non-suspense content is fairly minimal in this one - Roarke has invited his Irish relatives to visit for Thanksgiving, the usual complement of quirky friends appear, and Eve and Roarke have lots of hot sex - no surprises there. But the focus is on the suspense plot, and it’s a really creepy one. The introduction gives away too much, but it’s still very suspenseful and chilling. Enjoyable, although not one of the best in this series.
One note about this one - people who are squeamish about violence against children might find this hard to take. Except for the introduction, the violence is all implied, but the situation is deeply creepy, and it involves children, which is something some readers want to avoid. I found it disturbing but fascinating (what does that say about me, I wonder?)
Sunday, June 26, 2005
Saturday, June 18, 2005
Two Ruth Wind Titles
I read two Ruth Wind titles on my way back home - books I started weeks ago but never finished. (Maybe there was a reason?)
Walk in Beauty by Ruth Wind (SSE 881)
(1994, Series) 6/16/05
Grade: 4
Eight years earlier, Jessie made the agonizing decision to leave Luke, even though she loved him with all her heart. She was pregnant and Luke was sliding into alcoholism, something she knew all too well. Now he’s back, sober and determined to play a part in his daughter’s life. Can she risk her heart again?
Ruth Wind’s books are always well done, and this one is no exception. The characters are well written and sympathetic, and the sexual chemistry between Luke and Jessie is apparent on every page. The depiction of modern Indian life is fascinating. Seven year old Giselle is somewhat angelic but not too annoying. But something was missing in this book - it just didn’t have the emotional depth of some of her other books. Surprising, especially since she deals with Luke’s alchoholism honestly - but it just didn’t grab my heart the way her other books have. Worth reading, but not one of her best.
Rainsinger by Ruth Wind (SSE 1031)
(1996, Series) 6/16/06
Grade: 4
Both Winona Snow and Daniel Lynch have a claim on an ancient peach tree orchard - she grew up there, and his Indian ancestors planted the trees. They agree to share the house for the summer, along with Winona’s troubled teenage sister Joleen. But as the attraction between Winona and Daniel grows, can they find a way to work out their differences?
The characters make this book - both Daniel and Winona are unique and interesting people, and I enjoyed reading about them. But the rest of the book wasn’t as compelling, which made this book less resonant than many of Wind’s other books. I found Joleen somewhat tedious, and the constant back and forth about Indian rights to the land became tiresome after a while. The intriguing chemistry between the hero and heroine wasn’t enough to sustain the entire book, unfortunately.
I'm not a big fan of kids in romances, and that may have colored my feelings about these two books. Both books had good qualities, but it's hard for any book to measure up to Wind's best work.
Walk in Beauty by Ruth Wind (SSE 881)
(1994, Series) 6/16/05
Grade: 4
Eight years earlier, Jessie made the agonizing decision to leave Luke, even though she loved him with all her heart. She was pregnant and Luke was sliding into alcoholism, something she knew all too well. Now he’s back, sober and determined to play a part in his daughter’s life. Can she risk her heart again?
Ruth Wind’s books are always well done, and this one is no exception. The characters are well written and sympathetic, and the sexual chemistry between Luke and Jessie is apparent on every page. The depiction of modern Indian life is fascinating. Seven year old Giselle is somewhat angelic but not too annoying. But something was missing in this book - it just didn’t have the emotional depth of some of her other books. Surprising, especially since she deals with Luke’s alchoholism honestly - but it just didn’t grab my heart the way her other books have. Worth reading, but not one of her best.
Rainsinger by Ruth Wind (SSE 1031)
(1996, Series) 6/16/06
Grade: 4
Both Winona Snow and Daniel Lynch have a claim on an ancient peach tree orchard - she grew up there, and his Indian ancestors planted the trees. They agree to share the house for the summer, along with Winona’s troubled teenage sister Joleen. But as the attraction between Winona and Daniel grows, can they find a way to work out their differences?
The characters make this book - both Daniel and Winona are unique and interesting people, and I enjoyed reading about them. But the rest of the book wasn’t as compelling, which made this book less resonant than many of Wind’s other books. I found Joleen somewhat tedious, and the constant back and forth about Indian rights to the land became tiresome after a while. The intriguing chemistry between the hero and heroine wasn’t enough to sustain the entire book, unfortunately.
I'm not a big fan of kids in romances, and that may have colored my feelings about these two books. Both books had good qualities, but it's hard for any book to measure up to Wind's best work.
Too Predictable
Cop books have never been one of my favorites, but I was hopeful since Virginia Kantra is so highly regarded for her emotional reads.
The Reforming of Matthew Dunn by Virginia Kantra (SIM 984)
(1998, Series) 6/16/05
Grade: 3
Since her husband’s death, Clare has devoted herself to a garden project that helps troubled kids in a rough neighborhood. But when injured detective Matthew Dunn moves in across the street, she finds herself longing for something more - despite his more cynical view of her work and her ideals.
There’s nothing wrong with this book, but nothing particularly outstanding either. The plot and characters were both well done, but predictable. Nothing stood out - I felt like I’d read this book a dozen times before. Some authors can take a familiar plot and make it new, but this book just felt like a retread.
Unfortunately, Virginia Kantra has been a disappointment to me so far - but I still have hopes (and many of her books in my TBR).
The Reforming of Matthew Dunn by Virginia Kantra (SIM 984)
(1998, Series) 6/16/05
Grade: 3
Since her husband’s death, Clare has devoted herself to a garden project that helps troubled kids in a rough neighborhood. But when injured detective Matthew Dunn moves in across the street, she finds herself longing for something more - despite his more cynical view of her work and her ideals.
There’s nothing wrong with this book, but nothing particularly outstanding either. The plot and characters were both well done, but predictable. Nothing stood out - I felt like I’d read this book a dozen times before. Some authors can take a familiar plot and make it new, but this book just felt like a retread.
Unfortunately, Virginia Kantra has been a disappointment to me so far - but I still have hopes (and many of her books in my TBR).
Charm Only Goes So Far
Don't read this one when you're hungry! The descriptions of truffles and other goodies would give anyone a chocolate craving.
Sweet Success by Susan Mallery
(2001, Contemporary) 6/14/05
Grade: 3.5
Ali’s life centers around her chocolate shop in the small town of Santa Magdalana, and her friends and family there. She’s almost given up on love when a new handyman piques her interest - what is he hiding? Matt is running from a tragic past and doesn’t intend to stay long, but he can’t stay away from Ali - and hopes he’ll find redemption there.
Despire a hefty dollop of angst in Matt’s past (his wife tragic death etc.), this book coasts along primarily on charm - and does it well for the first two thirds. The characters are charming and likeable, the situations amusing and poignant at times. But the charm seems to wear thin after a while, especially with the fairly predictible plot “twist” in the last third. It was enjoyable enough to read, but it never went beyond a pleasant diversion.
Even though I enjoyed Sweet Success (and I always appreciate a good contemporary), it left me wanting more.
Sweet Success by Susan Mallery
(2001, Contemporary) 6/14/05
Grade: 3.5
Ali’s life centers around her chocolate shop in the small town of Santa Magdalana, and her friends and family there. She’s almost given up on love when a new handyman piques her interest - what is he hiding? Matt is running from a tragic past and doesn’t intend to stay long, but he can’t stay away from Ali - and hopes he’ll find redemption there.
Despire a hefty dollop of angst in Matt’s past (his wife tragic death etc.), this book coasts along primarily on charm - and does it well for the first two thirds. The characters are charming and likeable, the situations amusing and poignant at times. But the charm seems to wear thin after a while, especially with the fairly predictible plot “twist” in the last third. It was enjoyable enough to read, but it never went beyond a pleasant diversion.
Even though I enjoyed Sweet Success (and I always appreciate a good contemporary), it left me wanting more.
Another Excellent Harlequin Historical
Even though I've been trying to read some of my older books, I couldn't resist this one when I saw it on the shelf last month.
The Duchess's Next Husband by Terri Brisbin
(2005, Regency Historical) 6/11/05
Grade: 4.5
When Adrian became the Duke, his warm marriage became one of formality and duty, with the only goal an heir. But as his asthma attacks become worse, he fears he will die within the year. He has to find a way to protect Miranda, and find her a new husband - and in the process, he finds out his feelings for his wife are much deeper than duty - and Miranda discovers a new life for herself as well.
A deeply poignant book, this came close to being a keeper. It's rare to read a book that deals with the duty and formality of life in the Regency, even between a husband and wife. The setup is somewhat contrived, but for most of the book it works - it brings out deep emotions and had me reaching for the tissues. Unfortunately, the book gets bogged down by misunderstandings in the last section, which was frustrating. And even though things had to work out in the end, the combination of the misunderstandings and the "tie it up with a bow" ending left me wanting more - and left this one just short of keeper quality.
Even though I've met Terri dozens of times at book signings and events, I'd only read one of her books (a time travel that didn't do much for me). Obviously I've been missing out! This one was so close to being a keeper - I'm right on the edge.
The Duchess's Next Husband by Terri Brisbin
(2005, Regency Historical) 6/11/05
Grade: 4.5
When Adrian became the Duke, his warm marriage became one of formality and duty, with the only goal an heir. But as his asthma attacks become worse, he fears he will die within the year. He has to find a way to protect Miranda, and find her a new husband - and in the process, he finds out his feelings for his wife are much deeper than duty - and Miranda discovers a new life for herself as well.
A deeply poignant book, this came close to being a keeper. It's rare to read a book that deals with the duty and formality of life in the Regency, even between a husband and wife. The setup is somewhat contrived, but for most of the book it works - it brings out deep emotions and had me reaching for the tissues. Unfortunately, the book gets bogged down by misunderstandings in the last section, which was frustrating. And even though things had to work out in the end, the combination of the misunderstandings and the "tie it up with a bow" ending left me wanting more - and left this one just short of keeper quality.
Even though I've met Terri dozens of times at book signings and events, I'd only read one of her books (a time travel that didn't do much for me). Obviously I've been missing out! This one was so close to being a keeper - I'm right on the edge.
St. John Again
I don't think I've ever read a bad book by Cheryl St. John - I'm glad I still have much of her backlist in my TBR pile!
Saint or Sinner by Cheryl St. John
(1995, Western) 6/10/05
Grade: 4
Joshua McBride nearly died in the Civil War, but he was given a second chance - and he's determined to redeem himself. Addie Stapleton won't let Josh's return spoil her precarious status in town, no matter how attracted she might be to him. But when her past comes back to haunt her, Josh is the one she turns to, and the one who stands by her.
As usual, a quiet and involving book by Cheryl St. John. The characters were well written and sympathetic (maybe a little too perfect, but I liked them). The situation was familiar, but it was well done and didn't feel stale. The secondary characters were especially notable - mentally disabled Yancey, Josh's sister Chessy, etc. Somehow St. John can write a book that has no surprises, and yet is deeply satisfying. Not as involving as some of her best books, but definitely worth reading.
Every time I read a book by St. John, I wonder why she's not better known. A true buried treasure.
Saint or Sinner by Cheryl St. John
(1995, Western) 6/10/05
Grade: 4
Joshua McBride nearly died in the Civil War, but he was given a second chance - and he's determined to redeem himself. Addie Stapleton won't let Josh's return spoil her precarious status in town, no matter how attracted she might be to him. But when her past comes back to haunt her, Josh is the one she turns to, and the one who stands by her.
As usual, a quiet and involving book by Cheryl St. John. The characters were well written and sympathetic (maybe a little too perfect, but I liked them). The situation was familiar, but it was well done and didn't feel stale. The secondary characters were especially notable - mentally disabled Yancey, Josh's sister Chessy, etc. Somehow St. John can write a book that has no surprises, and yet is deeply satisfying. Not as involving as some of her best books, but definitely worth reading.
Every time I read a book by St. John, I wonder why she's not better known. A true buried treasure.
Vacation Reading
I always get a lot of reading when I'm on vacation or traveling, and I finally got some serious reading done when I was on a week-long trip to Salt Lake (for both fun and work). On my way there, I picked up an old favorite to reread, and it made the airplane trip much more enjoyable!
The Sugar Rose by Susan Carroll
(1987, Regency) 6/10/05 and 4/4/96
Grade: 4.5
Aurelia has been expecting the proposal of her neighbor and childhood sweetheart for years - but she didn't expect Justin to propose in front of his friend Everard Ramsey! Plump and plain, Aurelia isn't surprised when her fiancee neglects her, until Everard challenges her to become the talk of the ton - and she begins to see herself in a new light. But what if she's starting to fall in love with her tutor?
A charming and fun Regency, this is probably my favorite of Susan Carroll's delightful traditional Regencies. I picked this up for a friend, then started reading it myself - and I couldn't stop smiling! The characters are wonderful, and the attraction between Aurelia and Justin shines from the pages (a good example of how a traditional Regency can show attraction without sex scenes). When I first read it, it wasn't quite a keeper, and I'm still on the fence about it - I start to lose interest with all the running around in the latter part of the book - but it definitely stands up to rereading.
Even though I've enjoyed many of Susan Carroll's historicals, I don't think I have as much affection for them as I do for this Regency - the characters in the Sugar Rose just make me smile.
The Sugar Rose by Susan Carroll
(1987, Regency) 6/10/05 and 4/4/96
Grade: 4.5
Aurelia has been expecting the proposal of her neighbor and childhood sweetheart for years - but she didn't expect Justin to propose in front of his friend Everard Ramsey! Plump and plain, Aurelia isn't surprised when her fiancee neglects her, until Everard challenges her to become the talk of the ton - and she begins to see herself in a new light. But what if she's starting to fall in love with her tutor?
A charming and fun Regency, this is probably my favorite of Susan Carroll's delightful traditional Regencies. I picked this up for a friend, then started reading it myself - and I couldn't stop smiling! The characters are wonderful, and the attraction between Aurelia and Justin shines from the pages (a good example of how a traditional Regency can show attraction without sex scenes). When I first read it, it wasn't quite a keeper, and I'm still on the fence about it - I start to lose interest with all the running around in the latter part of the book - but it definitely stands up to rereading.
Even though I've enjoyed many of Susan Carroll's historicals, I don't think I have as much affection for them as I do for this Regency - the characters in the Sugar Rose just make me smile.
Sunday, May 15, 2005
An Old Friend
For some reason, I haven't been reading much romance for the past few weeks, but last night I pulled out an old favorite. Not romance, but a book most romance readers would enjoy.
Life Without Friends by Ellen Emerson White
(1987, Young Adult)
Last year, Beverly got into trouble - big trouble. Still haunted by her mother's suicide and unhappy living with her father and his new wife, she got involved with the wrong guy. Everyone saw him as the school golden boy, but only Beverly saw the ugly side of him - until he murdered two of her classmates. Now she has to go back to school for her senior year, with everyone watching her and blaming her for her cowardice. But not as much as she blames herself. She wants to believe that the funny, laid back guy she meets in the park is a way out for her, but can she trust her judgement any more? Does she deserve to be happy?
I read a couple of Ellen Emerson White's YA books when I was a teenager (notably the President's Daughter series, which is very good) but I must have been "too old" for YA by the time this one came out. I only discovered it a few years ago. Although there are some things in it that drive me crazy (particularly Derek's inarticulateness, which may be accurate but is frustrating to read), it never fails to leave me with those "warm fuzzy feelings". It's a wonderful redemption story.
It's not necessary to read the previous book, Friends for Life, which isn't as interesting as this one (it's a fairly superficial who-done-it). Beverly's situation is described in the first chapter of the book, and reading the previous book doesn't add a whole lot. But it's easier to find than Life Without Friends, which is unfortunately out of print and hard to find. Check your library - it came out in hardback and you may find it there.
Although this book is listed as "young adult" and doesn't include any explicit sex, it's more brutally honest than many romances. Unfortunately, Ellen Emerson White never got the acclaim she deserved - maybe the insipid title of this one kept readers away. She's written a few other children's books and a mystery but she seems to have stopped writing books like these - too bad.
Life Without Friends by Ellen Emerson White
(1987, Young Adult)
Last year, Beverly got into trouble - big trouble. Still haunted by her mother's suicide and unhappy living with her father and his new wife, she got involved with the wrong guy. Everyone saw him as the school golden boy, but only Beverly saw the ugly side of him - until he murdered two of her classmates. Now she has to go back to school for her senior year, with everyone watching her and blaming her for her cowardice. But not as much as she blames herself. She wants to believe that the funny, laid back guy she meets in the park is a way out for her, but can she trust her judgement any more? Does she deserve to be happy?
I read a couple of Ellen Emerson White's YA books when I was a teenager (notably the President's Daughter series, which is very good) but I must have been "too old" for YA by the time this one came out. I only discovered it a few years ago. Although there are some things in it that drive me crazy (particularly Derek's inarticulateness, which may be accurate but is frustrating to read), it never fails to leave me with those "warm fuzzy feelings". It's a wonderful redemption story.
It's not necessary to read the previous book, Friends for Life, which isn't as interesting as this one (it's a fairly superficial who-done-it). Beverly's situation is described in the first chapter of the book, and reading the previous book doesn't add a whole lot. But it's easier to find than Life Without Friends, which is unfortunately out of print and hard to find. Check your library - it came out in hardback and you may find it there.
Although this book is listed as "young adult" and doesn't include any explicit sex, it's more brutally honest than many romances. Unfortunately, Ellen Emerson White never got the acclaim she deserved - maybe the insipid title of this one kept readers away. She's written a few other children's books and a mystery but she seems to have stopped writing books like these - too bad.
Friday, April 29, 2005
Doubt Leaves Questions
This isn't about romance but it is somewhat literary - I went to see the Broadway play Doubt tonight and I am still somewhat overwhelmed by it. It's something I'll think about for some time - it definitely leaves you with a question, not an answer. (In an interview, the cast members said that audience polls usually found 1/3 for him, 1/3 for her and 1/3 undecided.) Brian F. O'Byrne and Cherry Jones were fabulous (although I found the Bronx accents a bit distracting). I'd read quite a bit about it, and it was what I expected - but also not what I expected. If you have the opportunity to see it, you should. You'll be thinking about it after you leave the theatre.
A Romance For Food Network Fans
Even though I usually prefer serious and heart-rending books, I enjoy a light read every now and then - and I usually turn to a series book when I'm in that mood. Humor wears thin in many longer books but a shorter book can be sustained on "amusing and charming". But there's a fine line between "charming" and "annoying" - I'm picky about my humor (just like everything else).
Dishing It Out by Molly O'Keefe (HFlip 37)
(2005, Contemporary Series) 4/28/05
Grade: 4
Marie has finally opened her bistro, and is appearing in a successful cooking segment on the morning news, but she’s still struggling - and the annoyingly smug chef across the street doesn’t help. But when they’re maneuvered into hosting a cooking show together, she finds out that Van is more than he seems - not to mention incredibly sexy!
A charming and fun book. The plot is thin, but most of the book gets by just fine with likeable characters and plenty of charm. I loved the details about cooking, which were the best part of the book. The characters had great chemistry together (even though they didn’t jump in bed immediately) and the book was amusing and fun. Unfortunately, the book ends with a rote “she’s afraid to commit” conflict which was predictable and dull, and ended the book on a less appealing note. But overall, the book was a light and enjoyable read.
For anyone who loves chef books and worships at the altar of Alton Brown, this is the book for you. I debated about whether to give this a 4 or 4.5, but I had to give it extra points for the setting. Chefs are definitely sexy - I wish more authors would write about them! (I also recommend Cathy Yardley's Blaze Guilty Pleasures from 2002.)
Dishing It Out by Molly O'Keefe (HFlip 37)
(2005, Contemporary Series) 4/28/05
Grade: 4
Marie has finally opened her bistro, and is appearing in a successful cooking segment on the morning news, but she’s still struggling - and the annoyingly smug chef across the street doesn’t help. But when they’re maneuvered into hosting a cooking show together, she finds out that Van is more than he seems - not to mention incredibly sexy!
A charming and fun book. The plot is thin, but most of the book gets by just fine with likeable characters and plenty of charm. I loved the details about cooking, which were the best part of the book. The characters had great chemistry together (even though they didn’t jump in bed immediately) and the book was amusing and fun. Unfortunately, the book ends with a rote “she’s afraid to commit” conflict which was predictable and dull, and ended the book on a less appealing note. But overall, the book was a light and enjoyable read.
For anyone who loves chef books and worships at the altar of Alton Brown, this is the book for you. I debated about whether to give this a 4 or 4.5, but I had to give it extra points for the setting. Chefs are definitely sexy - I wish more authors would write about them! (I also recommend Cathy Yardley's Blaze Guilty Pleasures from 2002.)
Wednesday, April 20, 2005
Discovering a New Author
I'm always a little bit nervous, trying a book by an author that I've "met" online. Lydia Joyce has been posting about this book for so long, how could it possibly be anything but anticlimactic? But how could I resist a book that promised my favorite tortured hero angst?
The Veil of Night by Lydia Joyce
(2005, Victorian) 4/20/05
Grade: 4.5
The heroine goes to visit the mysterious Duke of Raeburn to persuade him to forgive her brother’s debts - and she ends up agreeing to a week of sensual pleasure. (She’s already ruined, so why not take one last chance for pleasure?) Raeburn finds out Victoria’s secrets and grows to care for her, but he will not - cannot - reveal the secret that keeps him forever in darkness.
A well written, interesting book that has a few pacing problems, but it shows a lot of potential for a first time author. The book seems to be divided into thirds - the first third is a sensual, languid gothic, which made me want to savor every word. Maybe a little overly atmospheric in places, but rich and compelling. (Almost a hybrid of Ivory and Schone.) But then the book seemed to lose its way - the secret went on too long and the plot became predictable. The characters seemed stuck. But just before I put the book down in frustration, it picked up again, and I eagerly turned the pages until the end, although it became a more traditionally written and plotted romance in the last third. Not quite a keeper, but definitely an author to watch.
It's always fun to find a new author who is worth watching. It's lovely to find a current book that revels in darkness, and even better, a publisher who doesn't think every book should be the same. I wonder which direction her next books will take - this one seemed like two different books grafted together. I look forward to finding out.
The Veil of Night by Lydia Joyce
(2005, Victorian) 4/20/05
Grade: 4.5
The heroine goes to visit the mysterious Duke of Raeburn to persuade him to forgive her brother’s debts - and she ends up agreeing to a week of sensual pleasure. (She’s already ruined, so why not take one last chance for pleasure?) Raeburn finds out Victoria’s secrets and grows to care for her, but he will not - cannot - reveal the secret that keeps him forever in darkness.
A well written, interesting book that has a few pacing problems, but it shows a lot of potential for a first time author. The book seems to be divided into thirds - the first third is a sensual, languid gothic, which made me want to savor every word. Maybe a little overly atmospheric in places, but rich and compelling. (Almost a hybrid of Ivory and Schone.) But then the book seemed to lose its way - the secret went on too long and the plot became predictable. The characters seemed stuck. But just before I put the book down in frustration, it picked up again, and I eagerly turned the pages until the end, although it became a more traditionally written and plotted romance in the last third. Not quite a keeper, but definitely an author to watch.
It's always fun to find a new author who is worth watching. It's lovely to find a current book that revels in darkness, and even better, a publisher who doesn't think every book should be the same. I wonder which direction her next books will take - this one seemed like two different books grafted together. I look forward to finding out.
Sunday, March 27, 2005
A Regency Lives Up To Its Buzz
Several of my romance lists have been rhapsodizing about a Regency from the UK - I'm always a little wary of books with this much "buzz", but I was pleased to be able to borrow a copy and judge for myself.
The Mysterious Miss M by Diane Gaston
(2004, Regency) 3/26/05
Grade: 5
Madeline was forced into prostitution as a young girl, and the only light in her life was the night she spent with Devlin Steele - and the child that came from it. But when Devlin returns and takes her away, how will she adjust to living in the “real world”? Devlin’s inheritance depends on his marriage to a suitable lady - can he give up Maddie, to save her?
A wonderful book - although it did have flaws, it appealed to so many of my personal preferences and desires, it had to be a keeper. I loved the characters - they both had depth and weren’t the stereotypical romance hero and heroine. It was especially refreshing to read about a prostitute and mistress who was depicted with some realism. The book surprised me several times, and went in unexpected directions. The ending was more stereotypical, and I became impatient with the coincidences that tied everything up neatly. And even though the child was important to the story, I got tired of her cutesiness. But these are small flaws - overall, this is one of the best books I’ve read in some time.
Although this book is currently out of print in the UK (it was originally published by Mills & Boon), it's coming out as a Harlequin Historical in November. I'll be buying a copy for my keeper shelf.
The Mysterious Miss M by Diane Gaston
(2004, Regency) 3/26/05
Grade: 5
Madeline was forced into prostitution as a young girl, and the only light in her life was the night she spent with Devlin Steele - and the child that came from it. But when Devlin returns and takes her away, how will she adjust to living in the “real world”? Devlin’s inheritance depends on his marriage to a suitable lady - can he give up Maddie, to save her?
A wonderful book - although it did have flaws, it appealed to so many of my personal preferences and desires, it had to be a keeper. I loved the characters - they both had depth and weren’t the stereotypical romance hero and heroine. It was especially refreshing to read about a prostitute and mistress who was depicted with some realism. The book surprised me several times, and went in unexpected directions. The ending was more stereotypical, and I became impatient with the coincidences that tied everything up neatly. And even though the child was important to the story, I got tired of her cutesiness. But these are small flaws - overall, this is one of the best books I’ve read in some time.
Although this book is currently out of print in the UK (it was originally published by Mills & Boon), it's coming out as a Harlequin Historical in November. I'll be buying a copy for my keeper shelf.
Friday, March 25, 2005
Great Premise, So-So Execution
I have a great weakness for the "Martin Guerre" premise - the hero who takes the place of the bad husband.
Could It Be You by Mary Anne Wilson (HAR 523)
(1994, Contemporary Series) 3/19/2005
Grade: 3
Mac Gerard is a drifter, on the run. When he meets his double, and sees him killed in front of him, he decides to change lives with this stranger. But he finds that life as Charles Elliott is more complicated than he thought - and his new wife, Sean, is someone he’s always dreamed of.
I love this type of premise, but unfortunately, this book is just too short and too superficial to really delve into the situation. The first part of the book is compelling - when Mac falls into this situation, and decides to change lives. I liked Mac and found his situation fascinating. But the book gets caught up in the plot mechanics and doesn’t really delve enough into the characters and their emotions. In the end, it’s not enough.
Not much to say - a disappointment.
Could It Be You by Mary Anne Wilson (HAR 523)
(1994, Contemporary Series) 3/19/2005
Grade: 3
Mac Gerard is a drifter, on the run. When he meets his double, and sees him killed in front of him, he decides to change lives with this stranger. But he finds that life as Charles Elliott is more complicated than he thought - and his new wife, Sean, is someone he’s always dreamed of.
I love this type of premise, but unfortunately, this book is just too short and too superficial to really delve into the situation. The first part of the book is compelling - when Mac falls into this situation, and decides to change lives. I liked Mac and found his situation fascinating. But the book gets caught up in the plot mechanics and doesn’t really delve enough into the characters and their emotions. In the end, it’s not enough.
Not much to say - a disappointment.
Sunday, March 13, 2005
An Issue Romance
Sometimes old series books can surprise you - they sometimes dealt with issues that current books don't tackle.
Just Joe by Marley Morgan (SD 340)
(1987, Contemporary Series) 3/5/05
Grade: 3.5
When photographer Mattie is knocked down by quarterback Joe Ryan, both their lives are about to change. Joe is immediately drawn to Mattie, but friendship is all she can offer at first. But when she tells Joe her terrible secret, she finds that love can be more than pain. But can she heal and make a real life, with Joe?
The beginning was quite good. Maddie’s gradual journey through friendship, trust and love was well done, and the issue of sexual abuse was not simplified or sensationalized. But the book was sometimes noticeably dated, and the short length made it hard to really get into the issue. The second half became more stereotypical and simplified. There just wasn’t enough space to handle the problem in enough detail. But it was an honest examination of an issue that you rarely see in romance.
Although in the end this book was a bit disappointing, I have to give it credit for trying something different. It's a subject you rarely see addressed in today's books.
Just Joe by Marley Morgan (SD 340)
(1987, Contemporary Series) 3/5/05
Grade: 3.5
When photographer Mattie is knocked down by quarterback Joe Ryan, both their lives are about to change. Joe is immediately drawn to Mattie, but friendship is all she can offer at first. But when she tells Joe her terrible secret, she finds that love can be more than pain. But can she heal and make a real life, with Joe?
The beginning was quite good. Maddie’s gradual journey through friendship, trust and love was well done, and the issue of sexual abuse was not simplified or sensationalized. But the book was sometimes noticeably dated, and the short length made it hard to really get into the issue. The second half became more stereotypical and simplified. There just wasn’t enough space to handle the problem in enough detail. But it was an honest examination of an issue that you rarely see in romance.
Although in the end this book was a bit disappointing, I have to give it credit for trying something different. It's a subject you rarely see addressed in today's books.
Sunday, February 27, 2005
Surprised By Howard
Linda Howard is one of my least favorite authors - her alpha heroes make me want to hurl - but after all the online buzz about this book, I picked it up at a used bookstore.
To Die For by Linda Howard
(Suspense, 2005) 2/26/05
Grade: 4
Former cheerleader Blair Mallory now has a comfortable life, running her own gym. But when one of her clients - who looks just like her - is murdered, she finds herself at risk. At least Lt. Wyatt Bloodsworth is on the case - even if he dumped her after 2 dates. Except all he wants to do is get her into bed!
Cute, and surprisingly enjoyable for a Howard. Normally I hate her “alpha jerk” heroes, but even though Wyatt leans toward alpha territory from time to time, the humorous style of the book makes him less objectionable. The book is written in the first person, and it works here - a slightly airheaded cheerleader heroine probably wouldn’t have worked in third person, but in first person, you get to know her and sympathize with her. I probably won’t remember much about this book in a month, but it was a fun, quick read.
I guess this book shows the value of trying something different.
To Die For by Linda Howard
(Suspense, 2005) 2/26/05
Grade: 4
Former cheerleader Blair Mallory now has a comfortable life, running her own gym. But when one of her clients - who looks just like her - is murdered, she finds herself at risk. At least Lt. Wyatt Bloodsworth is on the case - even if he dumped her after 2 dates. Except all he wants to do is get her into bed!
Cute, and surprisingly enjoyable for a Howard. Normally I hate her “alpha jerk” heroes, but even though Wyatt leans toward alpha territory from time to time, the humorous style of the book makes him less objectionable. The book is written in the first person, and it works here - a slightly airheaded cheerleader heroine probably wouldn’t have worked in third person, but in first person, you get to know her and sympathize with her. I probably won’t remember much about this book in a month, but it was a fun, quick read.
I guess this book shows the value of trying something different.
Sunday, February 20, 2005
Delightful Sunday Reading
I've enjoyed some of Diane Farr's Regencies (particularly Once Upon a Christmas) and so I was glad to read her first single title. It was an enjoyable way to spend a Sunday afternoon.
The Fortune Hunter by Diane Farr
(2002, Regency Historical) 2/20/05
Grade: 4
With no other way to save his estate, Lord Rival has to marry an heiress. The first on his list is Lady Olivia Fairfax, who has devoted her life to charitable causes. But when he meets her unexpectedly, he finds himself drawn to her despite himself. But can he persuade her to risk everything, and marry him?
Witty, sexy, but not deeply emotionally involving. This was a smooth and easy read - I finished it in a couple of hours, and quite enjoyed reading it. The characters were fun, and although there’s no actual sex, the sexual tension between the hero and heroine fills the book. The focus of the book is the developing relationship between George and Olivia, and it’s fun to read. But even though I enjoyed these characters, I wasn’t deeply drawn into their story - up until the end, when the book does take off with true emotion. I wasn’t sure how to grade this book, but in the end, I had to grade it down slightly because it didn’t quite touch my heart.
Farr has been compared to Georgette Heyer, and in the end, it had the same problems for me that Heyer does - this book is amusing and witty, but doesn't have the level of emotion that I prefer.
The Fortune Hunter by Diane Farr
(2002, Regency Historical) 2/20/05
Grade: 4
With no other way to save his estate, Lord Rival has to marry an heiress. The first on his list is Lady Olivia Fairfax, who has devoted her life to charitable causes. But when he meets her unexpectedly, he finds himself drawn to her despite himself. But can he persuade her to risk everything, and marry him?
Witty, sexy, but not deeply emotionally involving. This was a smooth and easy read - I finished it in a couple of hours, and quite enjoyed reading it. The characters were fun, and although there’s no actual sex, the sexual tension between the hero and heroine fills the book. The focus of the book is the developing relationship between George and Olivia, and it’s fun to read. But even though I enjoyed these characters, I wasn’t deeply drawn into their story - up until the end, when the book does take off with true emotion. I wasn’t sure how to grade this book, but in the end, I had to grade it down slightly because it didn’t quite touch my heart.
Farr has been compared to Georgette Heyer, and in the end, it had the same problems for me that Heyer does - this book is amusing and witty, but doesn't have the level of emotion that I prefer.
Thursday, February 17, 2005
Top Read of 2004
Since this was my top read of last year, I thought I'd add a review.
Marry Me by Susan Kay Law
(2002, Western) 6/27/04
Grade: 5
To free her sister from another loveless marriage, Emily Bright heads to Montana where she buys a land claim and intends to make a new life. Except that her new land isn’t empty. The original owner, Jake Sullivan, left after his wife died, but now he’s back and isn’t leaving. But can eternal optimist Emily co-exist with skeptical, taciturn Jake?
A wonderful book. It started out with a lot of laughter, and by the end it grabbed my heart. Both characters are wonderful. Emily is bubbly and eternally optimistic, but she’s not dumb (and not even that naive). Jake is sometimes grumpy and cynical, but he’s not an alpha jerk - he admires Emily’s strength from the beginning. The West is a little bit prettified here, and the ending gets a bit overly sweet, but the gradual development of the relationship between Jake and Emily was well worth it. I stayed up until 3 am reading this one, and then closed the book with a happy sigh.
I consider Susan Kay Law a hidden treasure - some of her books are better than others, but she deserves a bigger audience. I only hope she doesn't end up being pushed into romantic suspense or women's fiction, when she does American Westerns so well!
Marry Me by Susan Kay Law
(2002, Western) 6/27/04
Grade: 5
To free her sister from another loveless marriage, Emily Bright heads to Montana where she buys a land claim and intends to make a new life. Except that her new land isn’t empty. The original owner, Jake Sullivan, left after his wife died, but now he’s back and isn’t leaving. But can eternal optimist Emily co-exist with skeptical, taciturn Jake?
A wonderful book. It started out with a lot of laughter, and by the end it grabbed my heart. Both characters are wonderful. Emily is bubbly and eternally optimistic, but she’s not dumb (and not even that naive). Jake is sometimes grumpy and cynical, but he’s not an alpha jerk - he admires Emily’s strength from the beginning. The West is a little bit prettified here, and the ending gets a bit overly sweet, but the gradual development of the relationship between Jake and Emily was well worth it. I stayed up until 3 am reading this one, and then closed the book with a happy sigh.
I consider Susan Kay Law a hidden treasure - some of her books are better than others, but she deserves a bigger audience. I only hope she doesn't end up being pushed into romantic suspense or women's fiction, when she does American Westerns so well!
Top Ten of 2004
I started this blog in early January - a fresh start in a new year. But it seems like a good time to look back at what I read in 2004.
I've been in a long reading slump, since the late 1990's. (Which corresponds to my becoming active online and getting a full-time job. And having my own apartment and my own TV for the first time. Lots of distractions!) But I don't think it was just the distractions. I only read 6 books in 1998 and 18 in 1999 - quite shocking, especially when I used to routinely read over 100 books a year. I haven't gotten back to that point, but I've been reading more and enjoying books more over the past couple of year. I read 96 books in 2004.
I'm always behind in my reading - with 1500+ books in my TBR, I'm more likely to pick up an older book than a new one. So I can't really judge the quality of 2004 books based on the books I read - I'll probably still be reading 2004 books in 2014. And one of my projects this year was to read through one bookcase of older books, so I probably read fewer new books this year than I have in other years. But there were some interesting trends this year.
When I looked at my top rated books from 2004, I was surprised. Only one historical! (I couldn't do an entire "top ten" because these were the only books I graded B+ or better. I can't really call a B read a "best" book.) I have quite a few 2004 historicals in my TBR pile, but it seems to be a trend - I'm having a harder time finding currently published historicals that I want to read. On the other hand, I bought more categories this year than I have in a decade - maybe Harlequin is finally escaping from their "cowboys and babies" obsession. There are still plenty of brides and babies, but I'm actually finding new categories that I want to read.
1. The Marriage Test by Betina Krahn
2. Finding Mary Blaine by Jodi Thomas
3. Can You Keep A Secret by Sophie Kinsella
4. A Family Christmas by Carrie Alexander (HSR 1239)
5. Forbidden by Tori Carrington (HB 129)
6. Mommy Said Goodbye by Janice Kay Johnson (HSR 1197)
7. Visions in Death by J.D. Robb
But when I look at my top reads of the year, regardless of publication date, the list is quite different. The only "keeper" I read this year was a traditional American historical - Marry Me by Susan Kay Law. I was surprised at how much I enjoyed this book (published in 2002).
I think that romance has lost something important by giving up on American historicals and pushing so many authors into other periods. There's something unique about books with this type of setting - you can't just transplant these stories to another time and place and have them work the same way.
I have to give a mention to Suzanne Enoch's England's Perfect Hero - a book that started off as the best of the year, and ended as the worst. I am baffled by this book. The first half was an exquisite tortured hero story, but then it went off in a different - and bad - direction. When the hero and heroine started humping each other in the mud in an open stable yard (and I use the word "humping" deliberately), I couldn't believe it was the same book. Perhaps the author just went off track, but I can't help wondering if it was the result of publisher pressure to "sex up" the book and to add unneeded excitement and suspense.
My top ten reads of the year:
1. Marry Me by Susan Kay Law
2. The Top Gun's Return by Kathleen Creighton (SIM 1262)
3. A Merry Little Christmas by Martha Schroeder
4. Hazard by Jo Beverley
5. The Nights Before Christmas by Vicki Lewis Thompson (HT 853)
6. The Marriage Test by Betina Krahn
7. A Promise Of Love by Karen Ranney
8. The Tenderfoot Bride by Cheryl St. John
9. Miss Ware's Refusal by Marjorie Farrell
10. Texas Glory by Lorraine Heath
I've been in a long reading slump, since the late 1990's. (Which corresponds to my becoming active online and getting a full-time job. And having my own apartment and my own TV for the first time. Lots of distractions!) But I don't think it was just the distractions. I only read 6 books in 1998 and 18 in 1999 - quite shocking, especially when I used to routinely read over 100 books a year. I haven't gotten back to that point, but I've been reading more and enjoying books more over the past couple of year. I read 96 books in 2004.
I'm always behind in my reading - with 1500+ books in my TBR, I'm more likely to pick up an older book than a new one. So I can't really judge the quality of 2004 books based on the books I read - I'll probably still be reading 2004 books in 2014. And one of my projects this year was to read through one bookcase of older books, so I probably read fewer new books this year than I have in other years. But there were some interesting trends this year.
When I looked at my top rated books from 2004, I was surprised. Only one historical! (I couldn't do an entire "top ten" because these were the only books I graded B+ or better. I can't really call a B read a "best" book.) I have quite a few 2004 historicals in my TBR pile, but it seems to be a trend - I'm having a harder time finding currently published historicals that I want to read. On the other hand, I bought more categories this year than I have in a decade - maybe Harlequin is finally escaping from their "cowboys and babies" obsession. There are still plenty of brides and babies, but I'm actually finding new categories that I want to read.
1. The Marriage Test by Betina Krahn
2. Finding Mary Blaine by Jodi Thomas
3. Can You Keep A Secret by Sophie Kinsella
4. A Family Christmas by Carrie Alexander (HSR 1239)
5. Forbidden by Tori Carrington (HB 129)
6. Mommy Said Goodbye by Janice Kay Johnson (HSR 1197)
7. Visions in Death by J.D. Robb
But when I look at my top reads of the year, regardless of publication date, the list is quite different. The only "keeper" I read this year was a traditional American historical - Marry Me by Susan Kay Law. I was surprised at how much I enjoyed this book (published in 2002).
I think that romance has lost something important by giving up on American historicals and pushing so many authors into other periods. There's something unique about books with this type of setting - you can't just transplant these stories to another time and place and have them work the same way.
I have to give a mention to Suzanne Enoch's England's Perfect Hero - a book that started off as the best of the year, and ended as the worst. I am baffled by this book. The first half was an exquisite tortured hero story, but then it went off in a different - and bad - direction. When the hero and heroine started humping each other in the mud in an open stable yard (and I use the word "humping" deliberately), I couldn't believe it was the same book. Perhaps the author just went off track, but I can't help wondering if it was the result of publisher pressure to "sex up" the book and to add unneeded excitement and suspense.
My top ten reads of the year:
1. Marry Me by Susan Kay Law
2. The Top Gun's Return by Kathleen Creighton (SIM 1262)
3. A Merry Little Christmas by Martha Schroeder
4. Hazard by Jo Beverley
5. The Nights Before Christmas by Vicki Lewis Thompson (HT 853)
6. The Marriage Test by Betina Krahn
7. A Promise Of Love by Karen Ranney
8. The Tenderfoot Bride by Cheryl St. John
9. Miss Ware's Refusal by Marjorie Farrell
10. Texas Glory by Lorraine Heath
Poignant and Emotional
Cheryl St. John has been an auto-buy for me for some time, although I don't have any of her books as keepers. But her books are always satisfying, solid reads. This one didn't disappoint.
Prairie Wife by Cheryl St. John (HH 739)
(2005, Western) 2/17/05
Grade: 4.5
The book is set in Nebraska in 1867. The hero and heroine have been married for a few years, and as the book opens, they are burying their 3 year old son. It's a heart wrenching beginning. The book then jumps ahead a year, as Amy and Jesse are struggling with their grief. Amy has locked herself away so she won't be hurt again, and Jesse is sleeping in the bunkhouse with a bottle of whiskey. Can they find a way back to each other
again?
Cheryl St. John doesn't write unique plots - although there are a couple of interesting turns in this book, I could have predicted just about everything that happens. Even the "exciting twist" that happens at the 3/4 point is familiar from dozens of westerns. But in her books, they don't feel like cliches. She creates characters that you care about, emotions that mean something. Although the book was a bit slow, especially in the first half, I really enjoyed it. I cared about Amy and Jesse, and their gradual journey back to each other was poignant and sweet. It's a kind of book you rarely find any more.
This is a kind of story that just doesn't fit in a Regency Historical format - it wouldn't be the same in a different time and place. These characters are quintessentially American Western. It's a type of story that we're losing, because of the insistent purblishing focus on a few types of books. It's sad to think that so few of these stories are being written now. Cheryl St. John could be called the heir of LaVyrle Spencer, and I think there are readers out there who are still hungering for this kind of book. I hope they find this one.
Prairie Wife by Cheryl St. John (HH 739)
(2005, Western) 2/17/05
Grade: 4.5
The book is set in Nebraska in 1867. The hero and heroine have been married for a few years, and as the book opens, they are burying their 3 year old son. It's a heart wrenching beginning. The book then jumps ahead a year, as Amy and Jesse are struggling with their grief. Amy has locked herself away so she won't be hurt again, and Jesse is sleeping in the bunkhouse with a bottle of whiskey. Can they find a way back to each other
again?
Cheryl St. John doesn't write unique plots - although there are a couple of interesting turns in this book, I could have predicted just about everything that happens. Even the "exciting twist" that happens at the 3/4 point is familiar from dozens of westerns. But in her books, they don't feel like cliches. She creates characters that you care about, emotions that mean something. Although the book was a bit slow, especially in the first half, I really enjoyed it. I cared about Amy and Jesse, and their gradual journey back to each other was poignant and sweet. It's a kind of book you rarely find any more.
This is a kind of story that just doesn't fit in a Regency Historical format - it wouldn't be the same in a different time and place. These characters are quintessentially American Western. It's a type of story that we're losing, because of the insistent purblishing focus on a few types of books. It's sad to think that so few of these stories are being written now. Cheryl St. John could be called the heir of LaVyrle Spencer, and I think there are readers out there who are still hungering for this kind of book. I hope they find this one.
Sunday, February 13, 2005
A Week Of Frustrating Reading
I've had a very unsatisfactory couple of weeks - I tried three books and quit halfway through each. I really need to find something good.
Emily and the Dark Angel by Jo Beverley
(1991, Regency) 2/13/05
Grade: 2.5
Practical spinster Emily Grantwich has taken over running the small family estate since her father was injured and her brother gone missing in the war. But when she is hit with perfumed powder, aimed at rake Piers Verderan, she finds her life turned upside-down. The more she is warned about the dangerous rake, the more attracted she becomes!
This was a frustrating book. I liked the characters, but they seemed to constantly be kept apart by misunderstandings and plain pig-headedness. The book seemed to be spinning in place instead of going anywhere. Although I’m not a huge Beverley fan, I usually like her Regencies well enough (I quite enjoyed Deirdre and Don Juan), but I couldn’t even finish this one.
I debated about how to grade this book, since there were good things about it. But since I finally gave up and didn't finish, I couldn't give it a higher grade.
The other two books I tried - and gave up on - were Bliss and Dance by Judy Cuevas. I've tried to get into her books several times, and it's hard to explain why they don't work for me. I read about 80 pages into Bliss and still didn't care what happened to the characters. I still felt like I was "slogging through" even after over 1/4 of the book - and didn't think it was worth continuing. It was especially disappointing because so many people, including many readers with similar tastes to mine, love her books. I really wanted to like them.
Emily and the Dark Angel by Jo Beverley
(1991, Regency) 2/13/05
Grade: 2.5
Practical spinster Emily Grantwich has taken over running the small family estate since her father was injured and her brother gone missing in the war. But when she is hit with perfumed powder, aimed at rake Piers Verderan, she finds her life turned upside-down. The more she is warned about the dangerous rake, the more attracted she becomes!
This was a frustrating book. I liked the characters, but they seemed to constantly be kept apart by misunderstandings and plain pig-headedness. The book seemed to be spinning in place instead of going anywhere. Although I’m not a huge Beverley fan, I usually like her Regencies well enough (I quite enjoyed Deirdre and Don Juan), but I couldn’t even finish this one.
I debated about how to grade this book, since there were good things about it. But since I finally gave up and didn't finish, I couldn't give it a higher grade.
The other two books I tried - and gave up on - were Bliss and Dance by Judy Cuevas. I've tried to get into her books several times, and it's hard to explain why they don't work for me. I read about 80 pages into Bliss and still didn't care what happened to the characters. I still felt like I was "slogging through" even after over 1/4 of the book - and didn't think it was worth continuing. It was especially disappointing because so many people, including many readers with similar tastes to mine, love her books. I really wanted to like them.
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