A Distant Thunder (Anita Stansfield)

Jayson sighed. “I miss the naivete of youth. I miss making music in the basement and eating your father’s cooking . . . playing my music and being with the people I loved.”
Elizabeth couldn’t hide the fact that she was a little choked up when she said, “I echo that . . . And I miss the rain.”
Following long moments of quiet, Jayson said, “Rain is . . . just rain . . . and no matter where I go, it’s always raining in my heart.”
After battling personal, professional, and financial setbacks, it looks as though Jayson finally has it all—fame, fortune, and a great family. However, he learns how swiftly a rising star can become extinguished. The problem was that Jayson actually had no life left at all. He had no career, no daughter or mother who needed him. His brother was busy with a flourishing career, and Elizabeth had her family.
Just when he reaches an irreversible crisis point in his life, God’s arms reach out to protect Jayson from his own worst impulses. But the road to healing can be arduous and elusive. And even with the love and support of his precious Elizabeth, can Jayson be reclaimed?
Renowned LDS author Anita Stansfield keeps her readers riveted as the drama of A Distant Thunder relentlessly unfolds. Part two of the Jayson Wolfe story is complicated and intense, charged with real-life parallels and struggles that are finely drawn and profoundly moving.

From This Moment On (Lynn Kurland)

Colin of Berkhamshire knows two things - the pleasure of warring and that brides do not want him. Two years ago his bride-to-be, Alienore, fled and hasn't been seen since. Yet his father keeps foisting prospects on him. The latest seems to do nothing but faint.

Alienore of Solonge knows two things as well - that fleeing not only Colin but also her scheming stepmother was the right thing to do. Yet as a knight in disguise she constantly fears discovery. At this point, she's not sure whom she fears more, the Butcher of Berkhamshire or her evil stepmother.

Through a bizarre twist of fate, she ends up journeying with her charge- Colin's latest intended - to England, where Alienore finds herself not only in the Butcher of Berkhamshire's garrison, but being made over into a knight by him personally. She thinks her lie cannot worsen

Until she begins to fall in love with him...

I was definitely entertained by reading this book. Colin was constantly doing things the "manly way." I loved his version of wooing (fighting, telling bloody stories, showing how to sharpen a sword).I still dont believe a girl can get away with impersonating a guy for all that long a time.

The Sound of Rain (Anita Stansfield)

Jayson felt almost as if he'd been catapulted into some eerie time warp as he stood and looked out over the ocean. It had been Drew's idea . . . to stop first at the place they'd come with their mother fewer than two years earlier. And Jayson couldn't deny that for all the grief and heartache he was taking with him . . . his musical abilities had grown through the experiences he'd found in Oregon, and his heart had been touched in ways that had changed him forever.
Friendships and relationships formed and forged through the fiery furnace of experience have left Jayson Wolfe wiser, sadder, and anxious to embrace new hopes and dreams. In the life he is reconstructing, his music is as essential as oxygen, and failure is unimaginable. But does life ever go as planned?
In this first volume of her new series, acclaimed LDS storyteller Anita Stansfield once again reaches out to her readers' hearts, minds, and spirits as she explores both the joy and grief that accompany complicated and intricate relationships. And her readers will find part one of this trilogy compelling and intense, heartwarming and heartbreaking — a deeply rooted love story with heart-stopping consequences.

I loved this book and am looking forward to books # 2 and 3. I had to put the book down at one point, because my eyes were too blurry from tears to continue reading. It also makes you appreciate things in life.

A Garden In The Rain (Lynn Kurland)

Patrick MacLeod is haunted by his past, by events he had no control over and wishes desperately he could change. He hasn't the heart for love, nor the time for rescuing maidens in distress of their own making. Until he sees a woman who touches his heart and stirs his soul...and makes him believe love might be possible after all.

For Madelyn Phillips, Scotland is the land of dreams, filled with magic, romance, and handsome Highland lords. Unfortunately, the reality of her dream vacation is no car, no luggage, and a pesky ex-fiance determined to shadow her every move. She thinks her dreams are in vain. Until she sees a man standing on a windswept moor, a Highlander full of secrets and longing, and Madelyn knows she has seen her destiny.

But the past isn't through with either of them, and it will take all the love each possesses to make their dreams come true...

I really liked this book. I could definitely take having a Patrick looking after me :)

The Rogue Hunter (Lynsay Sands)

Samantha Willan is a workaholic lawyer. She's grateful for some rest and relaxation in cottage country, and after a recent breakup she wants to stay as far away from romance as possible. Then she meets her irresistible new neighbor. There's something strange and mysterious about his eyes. Is it just her imagination, or are they locked on her neck? Garrett Mortimer is a rogue hunter. His last assignment united Lucian Argeneau with his lifemate, and Mortimer is hoping this one will be less . . . adventurous. He's here to track down a reported rogue, but fun in the sun is every bloodsucker's nightmare. Worse, he can't seem to get his mind off Samantha, especially when he spies her skinny-dipping in the lake. After eight hundred years as a bachelor, is he ready to turn a volatile attraction into a lasting love affair?

An okay continuation in the series but nothing terribly exciting. Hopefully future ones are better.

(Rated R)

Tall, Dark & Hungry (Lynsay Sands)

It bit: New York hotels cost an arm and a leg, and Terri had flown from England to help plan her cousin's wedding. The new in-laws offered lodging. But they were a weird bunch. There was the sometime-chipper-sometime-brooding Lucern, and the wacky stage-actor Vincent. And then there was Bastien. Just lookin into his eyes, Terri had to admit she was falling for him- someone even taller, darker and hungrier than the other two. She was feeling a mite peckish herself. And if she stayed with him, those blood-sucking hotel owners wouldnt get her!
Series is starting to get predicatable and a little boring. But of course I will still read them all.

Vampires Are Forever (Lynsay Sands)

Inez Urso is beginning to have her doubts. Her business associate Thomas Argeneau has some interesting traits, like an allergic reaction to the sun, excellent night vision, and not much of an appetite for food. And to top it all off, he just tried to bite her neck . . . but maybe that was a sign of passion. If so, she'd be happy to experience more, despite her determination not to mix business with pleasure.
Well, if not forever, at least two hundred years. Inez is the most beautiful woman he's seen in centuries. Those luscious lips, seductive curves, and her elegant neck . . . he just couldn't resist the temptation of one little bite. Now Thomas will do anything to convince her that only an immortal like him can satisfy her all night long . . .

This one was better than the last couple I've read. I do wish that she would have made the hero a bit more "alpha."

(rated R)

Love Bites (Lynsay Sands)

Etienne Argeneau's three hundred years of bachelorhood were at an end. Either that, or he'd be forever alone. He could only "turn" one human in his lifetime, and most of his kind reserved that power for creating a life mate. If he turned the wrong woman... But what choice did he have? He had to save Rachel Garrett. He didn't know her very well, but the beautiful coroner had saved his life. To save hers he would make her immortal.

Rachel Garrett awoke surprised. All she'd wanted was to get off the night shift at the morgue; now here she was staggering to her feet naked and in a strange place. But everything would be all right. She'd just make like a bat out of -- Then she saw the man of her dreams emerging from his ...coffin? And the look in his bright silver eyes said they'd be spending a lot of time together. She just hoped he tasted as good as her looked.

This one just didnt grab me as much as some of her others have.

(Rated R)

A Quick Bite (Lynsay Sands)

Lissianna has been spending her centuries pining for Mr. Right, not just a quick snack, and this sexy guy she finds in her bed looks like he might be a candidate. But there's another, more pressing issue: her tendency to faint at the sight of blood . . . an especially annoying quirk for a vampire. Of course it doesn't hurt that this man has a delicious-looking neck. What kind of cold-blooded vampire woman could resist a bite of that?
Dr. Gregory Hewitt recovers from the shock of waking up in a stranger's bedroom pretty quickly—once he sees a gorgeous woman about to treat him to a wild night of passion. But is it possible for the good doctor to find true love with a vampire vixen, or will he be just a good meal? That's a question Dr. Greg might be willing to sink his teeth into . . . if he can just get Lissianna to bite.

I dont know if it's because I've read other books in this series and this was supposed to be the first but this one didnt grab me as much as the other I've read. It was still a good read but I recommend reading it before the rest of the series.

(Rated R)

If I Had You (Lynn Kurland)

Artane...a majestic keep on the edge of the sea.
Artane...the foster home of Anne of Fenwyck and the legacy of Robin de Piaget.
Warring had kept Robin far from home for so long, Anne had all but given up hope he would ever return. But now Robin has returned to Artane - to the enchanting young woman who leaves him breathless with longing...and to a treachery that places them both in terrible danger. Then as the past threatens their future, he realizes that he wants nothing more than to have her - forever...
Lovely story. Loved how everyone was trying to get Robin to woo Anne in different ways when she really just liked the gruff way Robin did things.

Vampire, Interrupted (Lynsay Sands)

After seven hundred years of life, Marguerite Argeneau finally has a career. Well, the start of one, anyway. She's training to be a private investigator, and her first assignment is to find an immortal's mother. It seemed simple enough, until Marguerite wakes up one evening to find herself at the wrong end of a sword. Now she realizes she's in way over her head.
Julius Notte wants to protect Marguerite, and not because someone just tried to take her head off. She doesn't know it yet, but she's his lifemate and he's determined to woo her. It's been over five hundred years since he last courted a woman, but surely the techniques haven't changed. Now if only he can keep her alive—so to speak—so they can have that happily-ever-after.

Another good Argeneau book.

(Rated R)

The Accidental Vampire (Lynsay Sands)

Ever since an accident turned her into a knockout vamp, Elvi Black's been catching her z's in a coffin, staying out of the sun, and giving up garlic. She knows there's more to being undead than what she saw in Dracula, but she can't very well ask her mortal friends about proper biting etiquette. But when her neighbors placed a personal ad for her in the local paper, she never imagined she'd meet Victor Argeneau, a vampire who could have his pick of any woman-dead or alive.
Rich, powerful, and drop-dead gorgeous, Victor's the perfect man for a novice neck-biter like Elvi. He's willing to teach her everything he knows, but he'll have to do it fast. Someone's out to put a stake through her new vamp life, and only Victor can keep her safe-and satisfied-for all eternity.

This one was funny! When Elvi finds out that she can eat and doesnt have to sleep in a coffin...I thought I'd pee my pants with her reaction.

(Rated PG-13)

Bite Me If You Can (Lynsay Sands)

One minute Leigh is walking home in the early hours of the morning, and the next a vampire is sinking his teeth into her neck. Turns out it was a rogue vampire marked for termination, but it does Leigh little good because the damage's already been done. She's become one of them.
Lucian Argeneau, hunter of rogue vampires, has been alive for over two thousand years, and there's very little to excite him anymore. Food has become tasteless, sex is ordinary. Then Leigh drops into his life. Suddenly he finds himself craving coffee . . . and imagining the sassy brunette atop the black satin sheets on his nice big bed. It's Lucian's job now to enlighten Leigh on the inner workings of being immortal . . . and tutoring her is igniting a fire in him that hasn't burned in centuries.
But until they stop a renegade bloodsucker from destroying the human race, passion will have to wait!

I had a great time following the adventure of a newly turned vampire and her prickly vampire protector. Funny and sexy!

(Rated R)

A Bite To Remember (Lynsay Sands)

Once bitten, twice shy, and sexy PI Jackie Morrisey wasn't going there again. Vincent Argeneau may be the hottest guy she's ever met, living or dead, but she's here to stop a killer from turning this vampire into dust, not to jump into bed with him.

Anyone who doesn't like the darker side of vampire stories will like this series. It has a hint of a little bit of everything; suspense,mystery,passion and humor.

(Rated R)

This Is All I Ask (Lynn Kurland)

Set near the Scottish border at a rugged castle on the edge of the sea, this is the story of a courageous lord who lost everything he held dear. Of a strong young woman willing to sacrifice everything for happiness. Two lost souls who find in each other a reason to live again, to laugh again, and to love for the first time...

Emotional and Sweet! A wonderful story.

Highland Vampire (Hannah Howell, Adrienne Basso, Deborah Raleigh)

Kiss of the Vampire

Seeking the truth of his tortured heritage at court, Jankyn MacNachton finds something he never expected - true desire. Efrica Callan is beautiful, innocent, and possessed of a courageous heart. She spurns the men who court her dowry, but all Jankyn can offer this lovely creature of light is life in darkness - and in his arms...

I liked this one. After reading Eternal Highlander I was curious of Jankyn's story and this hit the spot.

His Eternal Bride

Suspecting her of murdering her husband, Callum, on their wedding night, Maev McCloskey's clan has banished her to a remote tower. There, she dreams of her dead love - and the passion they never knew in life. But soon she wonders if the seductive, mysterious Callum of her sleeping mind is real - and, if he is, whether joining him in his world would be an act of courage...or of madness.

I didnt finish this one. It had way too much sex in it even for me.

To Tame the Beast

In revenge for the curse that has forever banished him to the shadows, the creature called the Beast of MacDonnell demands the firstborn female child of each generation. Isobella's sister is soon to suffer this fate - unless Isobella can save her. Unafraid, she intends to confront the monster when she finds a strange man isntead: a warrior with the face of an angel and mesmerizing silver eyes who tempts her like no other.

I like this one. The author presented a great story and made it easy to stay involved in it.

(rated R)

My Immortal Highlander (Hannah Howell, Lynsay Sands)

As identical twins, Bothan and Calum MacNachton share a bond stronger than most brothers, one forged by a terrible secret. Rumours and dark tales have been whispered about their clan for centuries. For they roam the Highlands at night, driven by a savage hunger that can never be sated. Their only hope lies in marriage to Outsiders, mortal women whose pure blood will weaken the hold of their eternal curse. Now, alone and on the hunt for their brides, Bothan and Calum are at the mercy of both the Outsiders and whatever new dangers love brings...

Kenna Brodie and Sarra DeCourcey know what it is to stand apart. As strong, proud women, they are determined to prove themselves to their clan no matter what it takes. They've heard the terrible, whispered warnings, but nothing could prepare them for the handsome brothers whose fierce, unyielding desires are beyond any legend...

What Bothan and Calum promise is a life unlike any Kenna and Sarra have ever known. Now, as battle lines are drawn and love's most dangerous secrets are revealed, Kenna and Sarra must choose whether to betray their dark lords or stand and fight for a passion that will never die...

Both of these stories in this collection were a good continuation of this series.

(Rated R)

The Eternal Highlander (Hannah Howell & Lynsay Sands)

Cathal MacNachton and Connall MacAdie are cousins bound by far more than blood ties and the rugged Highland landscape their clan calls home. The ancient curse of their ancestry has fated them to live by night with an unquenchable thirst that neither can tame. The only thing that can save their souls is marriage to Outsiders - mortals whose untainted blood will weaken the curse in their children, and break the chains of fear that have made their clan a breed apart.

Bridget Callan and Eva Caxton are the women who will shape the clan's destiny. Marriage to these strange and mysterious men rescues each of them from desperate circumstances - and draws them into a web of danger, desire, and intrigue.

But Eva and Bridget refuse to be pawns in the battle that erupts as the future of the cursed clan hangs in the balance - a war that must be fought after the sun sets over the deep, still lochs. Whatever the outcome, they'll stand strong by their brooding warrior lairds, willing and able to face down their enemies -- and fulfill their desire for eternal love...

This book actually has two books in it. Nightriders and The Highland Bride. They have great romance and enough of the paranormal to give it a kick. Definitely not rated PG though.

Much Ado In The Moonlight (Lynn Kurland)

When Victoria McKinnon's brother offers to finance her production of Hamlet, she leaps at the chance. She can't imagine anything better than staging Shakespeare's masterpiece in an honest-go-goodness English castle. There's just one problem: the place is haunted by a grumpy, gorgeous Highland warrior, who's furious that anyone dares invade his home.

Connor MacDougal has no intention of relinquishing his authority over Thorpewold Castle to anyone, let alone a McKinnon. But when he catches a glimpse of the beautiful intruder, suddenly he can't help but wonder why it's taken eight hundred years into his afterlife to find the love of his lifetime...

I struggled with this one. It seemed to drag and I had a hard time relating to the characters.

The Immortal Highlander (Karen Marie Moning)

With his long, black hair and dark, mesmerizing eyes, Adam Black is Trouble with a capital T. Immortal, arrogant, and intensely sensual, he is the consummate seducer, free to roam across time and continents in pursuit of his insatiable desires. That is, until a curse strips him of his immortality and makes him invisible, a cruel fate for so irresistible a man. With his very life at stake, Adam’s only hope for survival is in the hands of the one woman who can actually see him.Enter law student Gabrielle O’Callaghan, who is cursed with the ability to see both worlds: Mortal and Faery. From the moment she lays eyes on this stunning male, Gabby is certain of one thing: He could be her undoing. Thus begins a long, dangerous seduction. Because despite his powerful strength and unquenchable hungers, Adam refuses to take a woman by force. Instead, he will tease his way into Gabby’s bed and make her want him just as he wants her. Now, no matter how hard Gabby tries to avoid him, Adam is everywhere, invisible to all but her—perched atop her office cubicle in too-tight jeans, whispering softly from behind the stacks of the law library, stealing her breath away with his knowing smile…all the while tempting her with the promise of unimaginable pleasure in his arms. But soon danger will intrude on this sensual dance. For as Adam’s quest to regain his immortality plunges them into a world of timeless magic and the deadly politics of the Faery queen’s court, the price of surrender could be their very lives. Unless they can thwart the conspiracy that threatens both mortal and Faery realms…and give them a shot at a destiny few mortals ever know: glorious, wondrous, endless love.

This one actually had an intriguing story.

I know you're gonna be shocked after reading the summar of the story...but this one has some sex in it.

Dreams of Stardust

Jake Kulchurn travels the world to unearth exquisite stones for his one-of-a-kind creations, but it is during an unexpected side trip to Seakirk castle that he meets a cadre of ghosts discussing a timeless beauty who lived centuries ago.

Amanda de Piaget is busy doing what she does best -- fending off suitors -- when she stumbles on a different kind of man. He is unconscious, dirty, and oddly clad. But unlike the other men who find themselves at Artane, Jake knows nothing about her -- and Amanda finds herself strangely drawn to him.

Time has brought them together to the safety of Artane's walls, but only time will tell if they'll escape those who would try to tear them apart...

I enjoyed how Amanda wasnt one of those gals who are just push overs and are waiting for a man to come and rescue them. She's feisty and mouthy. Of course, I like her.

Jake is experienced enough with the world to know when he's found a real treasure and he's willing to fight for her.

When I Fall In Love (Lynn Kurland)

Nicholas de Piaget is finished with demoiselles more interested in his riches than his heart. He is certain he'll spend the rest of his life in his leaky castle, watching others enjoy wedded bliss, until he stumbles upon a flame-haired maiden in distress. His honor demands that her help her return home -- if only his heart would allow it.

Jennifer McKinnon is convinced that there are no more knights in shining armor -- at least not in Manhattan. Then a chance trip to England leaves her wondering if a happily ever after might be in her future. Little does she know that a hero of legendary chivalry awaits her...800 years in the past.

I have realised a little slowly that this book and the previous Lynn Kurland novel are a part of a larger series of sorts. All of these books are stand alones but they deal with the same families.

I really like this one. It has history, action, and passionate romance (without the garbage).

My Immortal Promise (Jen Holling)

Drake MacKay is no stranger to the double-edged powers of blood witches. His own niece Deidra and his best friend were saved by a baobhan sith: Hannah O'Shea, the same spirit who would not heal Drake's dying wife. Nearly consumed by grief and fury, Drake is nevertheless bound by an unholy promise: for those she gave life, he has pledged his own.
Returning to Hannah's remote isle, Drake is stunned to be released from his obligation. And when he overhears a violent plot stirred up by villagers, he finds himself irresistibly called to warn her -- and escapes with her into the night. Alive for more than a century, Hannah has found the words of mortal men to be bitter lies. But there is darkness in their shared past, an evil that threatens Drake's family. Forced to unite, they discover a fire between them that melts their distrust...and a furious passion that may just save them both.

This was a so so read. The story had promise and there were parts in the book that had me hooked but it also had some parts that just plain dragged. Also, reader beware. There are a few quick sex scenes in this one.

Barrington Family Saga

Barrington Family Saga, Volume 1: In Search of Heaven
A strange and disturbing conversation overheard while secretly perusing the pages of the family Bible in the Barrington's study . . .
A mysterious yet intriguing book of scripture left unattended on the street . . .
An elusive new religion that beckons from halfway across the world . . .
The daunting task of becoming the governess to the Barrington children . . .
A proposal of marriage without a declaration of love . . .
Thus begins an epic that takes a young woman from a position of servitude to unrelenting challenges that will test the very limits of her courage and faith.
With vividly painted settings that range from the wealth and grandeur of the Barringtons' English estate to the vast uncharted vistas of America, you will be caught up in a saga rich with the promise of eternal implications.
In her inimitable style, best-selling LDS author Anita Stansfield has created a powerful and tender tale of love and loss and redemption, a deep-rooted love story that reverences the tender significance of human relationships. It is a journey of the spirit and of the heart — an adventure guaranteed to take your breath away.

Barrington Family Saga, Volume 2: A Quiet Promise

"James turned Eleanore to face him, and she crumbled in his arms, sobbing against his chest while the empty ache of losing her baby swirled into the heartbreak of having fear and secrecy shatter the perfect happiness she'd found in embracing the gospel."
Is it possible that the peace the Barrington family has found in their new Iowa surroundings will be destroyed by persecution born of ignorance and fueled by blind bigotry? Will personal sorrow and loss stretch their faith to the breaking point? And how can James find the courage to give his heart to God — to trust Him in his hour of greatest need?
"You're a good man, James. I know it and God knows it. But I wonder what kind of fear is wrapped around your heart, with pride there to protect it? And don't tell me I don't know what I'm talking about. I, of all people, know your heart. What are you afraid of, James? That if you wholly give your heart to God, He will hurt it?"
Join the Barringtons as they continue their odyssey of faith — a journey of love and spiritual testing with unimaginable eternal consequences.Tender, compelling, and stirring, this superb love story transcends the mundane and reaches richly into the realms of the inner spirit. LDS best-selling author Anita Stansfield once again demonstrates her unparalleled gift for storytelling in this absorbing and powerful historic epic.

Barrington Family Saga, Volume 3: At Heaven's Door

As Eleanore and James Barrington fear for the well-being and even the lives of dear friends, they struggle with the frustrating yet undeniable truth that for reasons known only to the Lord, He does not yet want them to join the Saints on their westward trek. However, they will soon face their own frightening challenges in Iowa that will not only test their faith, but will threaten to tear the very fabric of their lives apart.
In this breathtaking new volume of the Barrington Family Saga, renowned LDS author Anita Stansfield once again takes her readers on a grippingly emotional and spiritual journey. At Heaven's Door is a compelling and richly satisfying read -- a feast for the heart and soul.

Barrington Family Saga, Volume 4: Promise of Zion

Nothing has prepared Casey Harrison for the emotional and spiritual storms that lie ahead as he anticipates a future with Iris Barrington, whose wounded heart and spirit threaten to rob them both of their eternal destiny. This is a story of love, miracles, and redemption. Savor the superb storytelling skills of author Anita Stansfield in this triumphant finale of the Barrington family saga. Journey with the Barringtons as they continue to claim the promises God has made to them — not the least of which is the Promise of Zion.

I have read this series many times...I definately recommend it.

With Every Breath by Lynn Kurland

Sunshine Phillips's heart lies in Scotland, a land of rain, legend, and dangerously handsome Highland lords. She longs to call the magical place home, but after a day which includes such delights as blackening the eye of her lecherous boss and changing a flat tire in a chilly spring deluge, she'll settle for an evening spent curled up in front of a fire with a cup of tea. But what Sunny wants is not what she gets...

When Robert Cameron pounds on Sunny's door, he isn't paying a social call. With one brother struck dead in battle and another fighting for his life, the medieval laird has braved a trip onto enemy soil to fetch the MacLeod witch, a crone renowned for her healing powers. But the woman who opens her door to him is enchanting and young...and not from his century.

This was a good romance. It had action, history, and passion (without a lot of smuck). I enjoyed the story and the little twists it had in it.

Calamity Jayne Series by Kathleen Bacus

Calamity Jayne

Tressa Jayne Turner has had it up to here with the never ending string of dumb-blonde jokes and her longtime nickname that's harder to get rid of than lint from a belly button. Crowned "Calamity Jayne" by Iowa Department of Natural Resources officer Rick Townsend, Tressa's out to gain a little hometown respect - or die trying. Unfortunately for Tressa, that may be the case. She's just been handed the perfect opportunity to get "Ranger Rick," the doubting Don Juan of the DNR, and a skeptical citizenry to finally take her seriously. How? By solving a murder no one else believes happened...No one, that is, except the killer.

I was constantly cracking up reading this one. I cant believe how many interesting situations this girl gets herself into. I highly recommend anyone who wants a good laugh to pick this one up.

Calamity Jayne Rides Again

Two months ago, 23- year-old Tressa Jayne Turner knew just where she stood with "Ranger Rick" Townsend. Sure, her older brother's friend is what you'd call hott with two t's, but he's also responsible for her nickname, "Calamity Jayne," and their sparring since high school makes the Hatfields and the McCoys look like kissing cousins. And ever since they solved that murder last summer -- ever since Rick saved her cookies, he's acted as if he has a god-given right to sample them.

Of course, Tressa has bigger frenches to fry. The Iowa State Fair is about to start; and as well as being her favorite time of year -- donuts, funnel cakes, cotton candy, turkey legs!-- it's also her Uncle Frank's busiest. His ice cream stand is in a prime location, and he's poised to scoop the competition. So when a soft-serve saboteur appears at the same time her cousin goes missing, it's another fine sticky mess - worse than a King Kone with a hole.

Tressa is definitely back in her full glory. Loved this one too!

(Still to come)

Ghouls Just Want To Have Fun

Calamity Jayne Goes To College
Calamity Jayne Heads West

Holly Would Dream by Karen Quinn

Holly Ross often wishes she lived in a simpler time, when the clothes were glamorous, the men debonair, and the endings happy. That said, her career as a fashion historian isn't so bad. With both a wedding and a big promotion coming up, her own happily ever after seems assured.
So how, in the space of one day, does it all go wrong? How does she end up homeless, jobless, penniless, and fiancé-less? Why is she cruising the Mediterranean in hot pursuit of real estate tycoon Denis King? And why, for heaven's sake, is she chasing down a suitcase full of stolen Audrey Hepburn gowns?
With the sparkling Mediterranean and the eternal city of Rome as the backdrops, Holly's adventures begin to resemble one of the 1950s Hollywood gems she so adores. Finally she must choose between her long-held fairy tale fantasy and a new, real-life dream with an ending she couldn't possibly imagine.

This one wasnt too bad of a read. I absolutely loved the gay friend Nigel!

I learned a little about what a pain old clothes can be to repair. I dont think they're worth all the hastle.

We didnt need the major sex scene toward the end of the novel.

Me and Mr. Darcy by Alexandra Potter

After a string of disastrous dates, Emily Albright decides she’s had it with modern-day love and would much rather curl up with Pride and Prejudice and spend her time with Mr. Darcy, the dashing, honorable, and passionate hero of Jane Austen’s classic. So when her best friend suggests a wild week of margaritas and men in Mexico with the girls, Emily abruptly flees to England on a guided tour of Jane Austen country instead. Far from inspiring romance, the company aboard the bus consists of a gaggle of little old ladies and one single man, Spike Hargreaves, a foul-tempered journalist writing an article on why the fictional Mr. Darcy has earned the title of Man Most Women Would Love to Date.The last thing Emily expects to find on her excursion is a broodingly handsome man striding across a field, his damp shirt clinging to his chest. But that’s exactly what happens when she comes face-to-face with none other than Mr. Darcy himself. Suddenly, every woman’s fantasy becomes one woman’s reality. . . .

I'll admit that I got sucked into the book but I was really disappointed in it. I know I'm a bit old fashion saying this but the swearing was unnecessary and I didn't really care for the way she portrayed Mr. Darcy. Other than that it was okay, I don't think that I would ever read it again.”

Fiance At Her Fingertips

Debra is tired of everyone trying to fix her up. She is perfectly happy with her singlehood. One day, while walking around mall she finds a gag gift that claims "The single girl's all-in-one solution to all those friendly fix-me-ups." She decides what could it hurt? Next thing she knows....the make believe boyfriend is all too real!

This book was refreshing and a good laugh.

Circle of Magic Series (Tamora Pierce)

Sandry's Book
Here begins the tale of Daja, Briar, Tris, and Sandry, four children brought to Winding Circle Temple for training in crafts and magic. They are outcasts in their homeland. But in this magical place, they are valued and respected for their special powers.

Tris's Book

When Winding Circle comes under attack by Pirate Queen Pahua and her army, the four magicians-in-training unite in their powers to defeat the enemy.

Daja's Book

Outcast Trader Daja, along with her fellow mages-in-training, journeys from Winding Circle to the Gold Ridge Mountains, where drought threatens widespread famine. There, Daja creates an astonishing object: a living metal vine. A caravan of Traders covets the vine, and Daja's dealings with her former people reawaken a longing for familiar ways. Daja must choose -- should she return to the Traders, or remain with the Winding Circle folk who have become her family?

Briar's Book

Briar, whose magic lies in the realm of plants, finds that a dear friend is suffering from a mysterious illness. Briar and his fellow mages-in-training must bind their magic together to save the person Briar loves best.

I enjoyed this young adult series written by Tamora Pierce. It was a simple read but I liked the relationships between the characters and how they learned to overcome trials with the help of each other.

Chasing Yesterday

REVISITING THE PAST MAY BE THE ONLY WAY TO FIND TOMORROW

Tyler Huntington had always thought of Savvy as his best friend, someone who would always be there for him—until she wasn't. Only when she's gone does he realize how much she meant to him; only when she's not a part of his life does he realize how empty life is without her. Now he wonders if it's too late.Meanwhile, Savvy's life has taken a bizarre turn with the unexpected arrival of a wild-looking teenager who claims to be her half sister. As Savvy tries to unravel the mystery of the girl's past, Tyler's sudden reappearance in her life might just be an answer to prayer. At the same time, Savvy is wary of putting her heart at risk. Tyler seems to have figured out his true feelings, but will it take a tragedy for Savvy to learn to trust hers?Readers have been captivated by Tyler's siblings Amanda and Mitch in two previous Hunting family novels. Now Tyler takes center stage in this compelling tale of secrets, forgiveness, and redemption that emphasizes the importance of family and the real definition of lasting love.

This is book #3 of the Huntington Family Series. I really enjoyed this one, she kept you wondering what was going to happen and how were they going to get through their problems. Now I just wish I could find books #1 & #4.

Kate Series

As far as Kate Erickson is concerned, prayer doesn’t work and testimonies are only illusions. Unimpressed with either her parents or the Church, 16-year-old Kate turns to friends who do impress her. To get Kate away from the influence of her friends, her parents plan a family vacation and insist that she come. To get even with them, Kate decides to make the trip an adventure in misery. She succeeds, but also makes herself miserable. Then something happens to Kate that puts her in touch with the great-grandmother for whom she was named, and she learns some important things about herself and her heritage that show her the importance of the gospel in daily life.You’ll want to take sides with Kate one minute and punish her for her outrageous behavior the next. A great story every girl and mother will enjoy!

After years of living in her sisters Kate's shadow, Sabrina Erickson is excited for a fresh start at a new high school, until her life takes a sudden, dramatic turn.Sabrina's friend Bev Henderson also has a battle on her hands. The gospel has given her hope, but can she convince her father to stop drinking before it destroys the whole family?Believable and compelling, Sabrina and Kate is the touching story of the trials, choices, and eventual triumphs of growing up.

I love reading the Kate Series. There are 5 books in this series. I own 4 out of the 5, but I am unable to find the 4th book of the series. The 5 books are: Kate's Turn, Kate's Return, Forever Kate, Following Kate and Sabrina & Kate. I would like to borrow the 4th book of this series if anyone has it. I had to have tissues with me the whole time reading this series. It is so easy to relate to these characters. I would recommend everyone reading this series. Above I have added the introduction to two of the books, but as you can see I can not even find a picture of the 4th book.

Against an Amber Sky

Life is beautiful for fifteen-year-old Bodi Brooks. She has a wonderful family, a loyal friend, her poetry, her music, and best of all, her daydreams. Everything in her life is perfect...except for school. And her bratty cousin Staci. And that annoying boy, Syd. And the fact that the most handsome boy in the world, Freddie, doesn't know she exists. And, of course, the Vietnam War. Other than that, though, Bodi has no complaints.
Just when Bodi feels life is at its best, adversity strikes. When a quick succession of tragedies crush Bodi's perfect world, Bodi is left with a pile of broken dreams as well as faith-threatening questions. Does God exist, or is he really only the product of someone's pitiful yearning and imagination? Can people be trusted, or will everyone sooner or later break their word? Do miracles really happen - and if they do, can they happen to someone like her?
In this touching story, the reader will learn with Bodi that although life doesn't always turn out the way we want, it doesn't mean that it can't still be good. Against an Amber Sky is the story of a young girl who learns the importance of integrity and comes to feel the love of God as she discovers the reality of miracles.

The young girl in this story has to learn to deal with many types of sorrow in her life. It is a good book. It isn't a book that requires you to finish the whole thing before putting it down, but it has a good story line and shows you that no matter what happens in your life, life still goes on and God will always love you.

No Longer Strangers

When zoologist Mitch Huntington agreed to be named in his best friends' will as guardian to their daughter, Emily Jane, he was sure it meant nothing more than pony rides, presents on birthdays, and an occasional day at the circus. Instead he finds himself up to his elbows in diapers and soggy oatmeal. While Mitch soon discovers that animal care and baby care are not the same thing, he quickly becomes totally devoted to the adorable little girl. But Cory Steele, Emily Jane's estranged aunt, will stop at nothing to rescue her niece from the clutches of this single Mormon man—even if it means pretending to join his strange church in order to gain his trust . . . and seize custody of the baby. Is Cory deceiving herself as much as she's trying to deceive Mitch? What's really in her heart? And what's best for Emily Jane? You've met Mitch's sister Amanda and read her gripping tale in the best-selling novel Winter Fire. Now Mitch's story will tug at your heartstrings as it explores the nature of commitment and selfless love.

This is a quick book to read. I have read it many times. I didn't realize until a few days ago, that it is part of a series. No I haven't read the first book "Winter Fire" of the Huntington Family Series. Luckily these books are written so you can read them together or as individuals, because they are stories about each Huntington's child adventures in finding love. I have ordered the third one and am waiting for it to arrive. I didn't know this when I ordered it, but now I am glad I did. I just have to find the 1st and 4th books of this series.

Wild Card

This action-packed novel is as full of twists and turns as the road to Galveston and Frank's new life. Set in turn-of-the-century America, this epic tale is as vast and sweeping as the plains of Texas . . . and beyond.
Filled with breathtaking suspense, Frank's story is one of misunderstandings, betrayals, heartaches-and deadly secrets. Bound together with an assortment of unsavory characters on the wrong side of the law, yet separated from them by his differing ideals, Frank finds himself in a race against time to save lives, even scores, and heal old wounds.
A timeless tale of the struggle between good and evil, and of one man's journey to find himself-and God.

If you love old western love stories, you will love this book. The beginning was slow to get started, but once the story took form it was one adventure after another. Definately worth reading at least once. After reading this book, I found out that Jennie Hansen (the author) has lived in our neck of the neighborhood (Kearns, Utah).

The Three Gifts Of Christmas

When her father remarries, LeNay Parkins finds her home so impossibly changed that she feels she can no longer stay. As she bravely sets out in search of a new life, she is overcome with illness the moment she steps off the bus in a strange town. Alone and frightened, LeNay accepts a kind offer from a passerby to recuperate at her home. The name of this stranger is Alexandra Byrnehouse-Davies. Alexa is a widow whose spacious home and heart have more than enough room for LeNay.

In time, LeNay forms a unique bond with Alexa’s two grandsons. Then war comes between them. Time and again, happiness seems to slip through LeNay’s fingers, as she encounters a series of losses that cut into her soul and wear away at her faith.

This might actually be my favorite of the series. The love story in this one is just so simple and appealing.

Gables Against The Sky

It has been nearly two decades since Alexa Byrnehouse and Jess Davies married and started a family, and their twins, Emma and Tyson, have now grown to young adulthood. The Byrnehouse-Davies family is one of the richest in Australia, known for its exceptional handling of horses and abandoned boys. Boys like Michael Hamilton, who seems born for trouble. Still, he holds a special place in Alexa’s heart--and he loves Emma helplessly, hopelessly from a distance as he works in the stables. Will their two worlds, now so far apart, ever come together?

In prose as vivid as the blue Australian sky, author Anita Stansfield expertly fashions a powerful saga of passion, betrayal, forgiveness, and ultimate redemption. In the end, when lives and virtue are threatened, true love and commitment are put into perfect perspective--and a happy ending is guaranteed!

This book had some great examples of why we need to forgive others. Some of the lovey, dovey moments did start to wear on me but what do you expect when you have more than one love story going on. I personally fell in love with Michael.