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Thursday, July 30, 2009

Best Romance Novel Reviews

The newest romance novels rated 5 stars (or hearts, books, etc.) from The Wild Rose Press are listed here.

Click title to find the book, or stars to read the review. For a description of ratings, please click here.

Best Book
Children of the Mist, by Hywela Lyn ☆☆☆☆☆
Paranormal, sensual

Two minds united against a common foe. Two hearts afraid to show their love: Long ago Tamarith fell in love with a man she can never have, and is convinced she will never love another. However, she cannot help but be intrigued by a handsome stranger whose psychic powers exceed even her own. More…

“This book is wonderful! There are few books that hold my interest to the point where I can't bear to put it down, but Children of the Mist is most certainly at the top of this list.” – Orchid, Long and Short Reviews …full review
Buy from The Wild Rose Press


All for Love, by Lora Darling ☆☆☆☆☆
Historical, sensual

French émigré, Olivier Davignon, is determined to prove himself worthy of Maisie Tindall at any cost. With Maisie's brother by his side, he becomes a highwayman in an effort to acquire enough wealth to offer for her hand. When things go awry and Olivier ends up wounded, he confesses to Maisie he has done it all for her. More…

“This was a thoroughly delightful story….I would read this again and recommend it for all romantics and especially for people who enjoy stories from bygone days.” – Azalea, Long and Short Reviews …full review
Buy from The Wild Rose Press


Amazon Connection, by Carol Henry ☆☆☆☆☆
Suspense, sensual

Holly Newman has been sent to monitor GlennCorp’s pipeline project to ensure it doesn’t endanger the rainforest. Working with GlennCorp’s two field engineers, Holly approves the proposed route. But trouble-shooter Jake Daniels arrives in Manaus and postpones signing contracts. Jake has been sent to investigate a money-laundering scheme involving GlennCorp’s two engineers. Jake’s boss suspects Holly is an accomplice and orders Jake to get ‘close’ to her. The last thing Jake needs is to ‘get close’ to a tree-hugging female. More…

“The lush setting of the Amazonian Rainforest and the tension between Jake and Holly, pulls you into the suspense of this book. Ms. Henry is a imagery wizard, creating scenes and characters who make you believe the danger.” – Brynna Curry, WRDF Reviews …full review
Buy from The Wild Rose Press


A Daughter’s Promise, by Christine Clemetson ☆☆☆☆☆
Vintage, sensual

Embroiled in a bitter fight to liberate Rome during WWII, American soldier Miles Coulson is stranded on the cold beaches of Italy, alone, bleeding out, and not knowing the lay of the land. This leaves him with one choice: Live or die. Until Serene Moneto risks her family and her freedom to give him shelter. But as he recuperates, Miles finds himself fighting to liberate Serene from a life worse than any death. More…

“Clemetson’s A Daughter’s Promise easily vaults the ‘best in the book-stack’ of historical romances I have read thus far this year.” – Snapdragon, Long and Short Reviews …full review
Buy from The Wild Rose Press


Enemy of the King, by Beth Trissel ☆☆☆☆☆
Historical, spicy

1780, South Carolina: While Loyalist Meriwether Steele recovers from illness in the stately home of her beloved guardian, Jeremiah Jordan, she senses the haunting presence of his late wife. When she learns that Jeremiah is a Patriot spy and shoots Captain Vaughan, the British officer sent to arrest him, she is caught up on a wild ride into Carolina back country, pursued both by the impassioned captain and the vindictive ghost. More…

“I thoroughly enjoyed reading Enemy of the King. Not only are the characters memorable and the setting beautifully described, but the action is riveting and the romance between Meri and Jeremiah is tender.” – Poinsettia, Long and Short Reviews …full review
Buy from The Wild Rose Press


Hostage to Love, by Maya Blake ☆☆☆☆☆
Suspense, spicy

Crushed by betrayal, Belle Winkworth-Jones flees the shambles of her short-lived marriage, only to be kidnapped by a vicious rebel solider determined to keep her for himself. Nick Andreakos mounts a ruthless rescue to save the wife who walked away from him, even though he's resentful Belle could dismiss their marriage so easily.

“Author, Maya Blake knows how to write a story. This author’s writing style is easy to follow and flows effortlessly from one scene to the next.” – Riley James, WRDF Reviews …full review
Buy from The Wild Rose Press


Reflections, by Rynne Raines ☆☆☆☆☆
Paranormal, hot

…As a silent observer in a world he is no longer part of, Rykel Deveau has entertained himself by becoming engrossed in the lives of the living. Society has changed in two hundred years—more importantly, women have changed. Now, over two centuries later, Rykel finds himself forced to share his living quarters with the most unusual female he has ever come across, sensual artist, Danica Lovel. Between the woman's hideous tattered bathrobe and unsightly pink slippers, he should be appalled, yet bizarrely, he finds himself strongly drawn to her. He wants her. The problem is, she has no idea he exists. More…

“Action, romantic tension, fear, pain and the inevitable passion made this book a delicious read. I found it compelling, unable to tear my eyes off the page until I reached the very end. ” – Cinnamon, Enchanting Reviews …full review
Buy from The Wild Rose Press


Roses for Rachel, by Dianne Miley ☆☆☆☆☆
Inspirational, sweet

Young widow Rachel Santos raises her daughters alone and tries to get past the pain of losing her cheating husband. Attracted to pretty boys, she goes from one bad relationship to another. When she dumps her cheating boyfriend, someone vandalizes her home and sabotages her job. Faithful Elliot Truman catches this demented stalker... and convinces her some men are worth loving.

“The players in this wonderful story are well crafted. So many people could be the stalker that the author keeps us guessing.” – Dee Dailey, The Romance Studio …full review
Buy from The Wild Rose Press


Wildcard, by Robin Shope ☆☆☆☆☆
Suspense, sweet

What would happen if someone secured a microchip that could be manipulated to give his or her candidate the edge to win the next presidential election? Not enough votes for a landslide, but just enough to put their candidate over the top in a decisive win. The Wildcards are a group of maverick agents who want to take over the outcome of the next election for President of the United States.

During Ivy Dillon’s last week as a Washington Intern, she and Ms. Geneen Waters, the secretary to the President of the United States, overhear a conversation about voting machines and missing software. Months later Ms. Waters body is found floating in the Potomac River. More…

“I enjoyed Ms. Shope's style and voice as a fresh new change of pace in the romantic suspense genre. Full of suspense and complicated plot twists, Wildcard is one you're sure to enjoy and it will be going permanently on my shelf.” – Brynna Curry, WRDF Reviews …full review
Buy from The Wild Rose Press

Thursday, July 23, 2009

Best Romance Novel Reviews

The newest romance novels rated 5 stars (or hearts, books, etc.) from The Wild Rose Press are listed here.

Click title to find the book, or stars to read the review. For a description of ratings, please click here.

Top Read
A Different Drum, by Cindy Causey ☆☆☆☆☆
Contemporary, spicy

Out-of-work reporter Mallory Aikins dreams of a Prince Charming who will whisk her away from her family’s poverty to his mansion on the hill. Instead, she’s stranded in the tiny town of Sagebrush, watching her chance at a new start in Palm Springs evaporate in the New Mexico heat. But her reporter’s curiosity is piqued by sexy, mysterious, motorcycle-riding sheriff Drummond Wolfe.
More…

“I liked this book enough to research the author, to purchase any other books she may have written.” – Jade Ryan, WRDF Reviews
…full review
Buy from The Wild Rose Press


Recommended Read
Where the Rain is Made, by K. Celeste Bryan ☆☆☆☆☆
Paranormal, spicy

A Dangerous Warrior Held captive by a decadent-looking savage, Francesca DuVall spends every waking moment planning an escape for her brother, Marsh. But she never counted on falling in love with the man whose smoldering sapphire eyes cause her to tremble with unbridled passion. Ethan Gray, the man, is a curator at a famous museum . . . most of the time, that is. At other times, he’s Meko, a savage warrior hurtled into the past to help his beloved people, the Cheyenne.
More…

“This is a historical romance sure to magically sweep you back in time. A must read!” – Karen Michelle Nutt, PNR Reviews
…full review
Buy from The Wild Rose Press


A Convenient Cowboy, by Shari Thayn ☆☆☆☆☆
Contemporary, spicy

Nina Randall needs a change. Her career as an ad exec is in a shambles and she has no personal life to speak of. She has one last chance to prove herself—a soda pop commercial in a Western setting. The thought of rough, rugged cowboys positively beckons.
More…

“Ms. Shari Thayn has written a great story with dynamic characters.” – Brenda Talley, The Romance Studio
…full review
Buy from The Wild Rose Press


The Daddy Issue, by Melissa Beck ☆☆☆☆☆
Contemporary, sensual

The last souvenir small-town girl Gretchen expected from her Chicago vacation was getting pregnant from one night of delight. The sexy, successful CEO she hooked up with told her he wasn't interested in a family, so she never revealed what had happened. Five years later, Daniel is at the top of his game in both business and womanizing, but he's shaken off his pedestal when a friend hints that he might have a daughter.
More…

“Ms. Melissa Beck has written a great book about a couple who faced a gigantic, seemingly insurmountable problem….I highly recommend this book as one which will grab your attention and hold it until the very last page.” – Brenda Talley, The Romance Studio
…full review
Buy from The Wild Rose Press


Dog Nanny, by Ann Whitaker ☆☆☆☆☆
Contemporary, sensual

Doggy do-gooder Julie Shields has one month to save two delinquent poodles from becoming doggies of divorce. A self-proclaimed born-again virgin with a biological clock running out of juice, she also needs to find a husband. When hunky pilot Nick Worthington arrives at the Abilene airport to fly her to Waco, he sends Julie into a tailspin. But he also may be a drug trafficker and smuggler of illegal aliens. Not only that, he’s involved with another woman.
More…

“How refreshing it is to read a book that took me away from the present moment and transported me into a small town in Texas where Old World meets New World. This is a magnificent book that is witty in all the right places.” – Shannon, Coffee Time Romance
…full review
Buy from The Wild Rose Press


Forever from Paris, by Nicola Beaumont ☆☆☆☆☆
Inspirational (Contemporary), sweet

The Desire of her heart... Finally, a man who doesn't think Marie is a bumbling fool for not being able to articulate her thoughts. Kind, thoughtful, attentive...handsome: He's definitely the answer to her prayer for a devoted husband. A promise of forever... Observant, funny, shy...gorgeous: Martin is tempted by the thought of a lifetime with Marie, but he must put aside his desire, for his heart is not free to love another woman.
More…

“Nicola Beaumont pens a unique tale of the kind of love that is powerful and unselfish.” – Brenda Talley, The Romance Studio
…full review
Buy from The Wild Rose Press


It’s About Time, by Andee S. Davis ☆☆☆☆☆
Historical, sweet

A summer in England was meant to help Meg Sutherland grieve her father’s early passing. The last thing she expects is to be thrown back in time to an era where her everyday knowledge of health and medicine may save two lives threatened by old-fashioned ignorance. How can she convince handsome Mr. Ellingsworth that her meddling will save his children’s lives when her twenty-first century confidence only increases his resistance?
More…

“Getting the reader to believe a person can go to another time is essential to the story and Ms Davis accomplished this in It's About Time with talent and cleverness.” – Sal, Two Lips Reviews
…full review
Buy from The Wild Rose Press


Marrying Minda, by Tanya Hanson ☆☆☆☆☆
Historical (Western), spicy

Mail-order bride Minda Becker arrives in Paradise, Nebraska and eagerly marries the handsome man who meets her stagecoach. His wedding kiss melts her toes. Too bad he's the wrong bridegroom. Having honored his brother's deathbed request to marry Minda, Cowboy Brixton Haynes can't deny he'd like a wedding night with the eastern beauty. But the last thing he needs is to be saddled with a wife and the three children his brother left behind.
More…

“Ms. Tanya Hanson has written a book about the things I love reading the most—historical, western, mail order bride—with great characters and fast-paced action and conflict which makes the good times even better.” – Brenda Talley, The Romance Studio
…full review
Buy from The Wild Rose Press


Meant to Be, by Donna Marie Rogers ☆☆☆☆☆
Contemporary, spicy

She's running from her past, he's unsure about his future. Maybe together they can figure out what was MEANT TO BE.… Officer Garrett Jamison is at the lowest point in his life. He’s lost faith in his ability as a police officer after unwittingly setting his sister up with a dirty cop. Garrett ended up getting shot, and his sister's son kidnapped right out of his own bed. He takes a leave from the force, in need of some time to make a decision about his future. Too bad he can't get a decent night's sleep thanks to his sexy new neighbor and her howling cat.
More…

“Do you love characters that are stubborn, honorable, sassy, and just plain lovable? Well, look no further. Jessica and Garrett will keep you on your toes and turning those pages.” – Roberta, You Gotta Read Reviews
…full review
Buy from The Wild Rose Press


The Prisoner, by Sharon Lanergan ☆☆☆☆☆
Historical, spicy

When Brian Fitzroy is unable to save the woman he loved from her murderous husband, he is imprisoned with no hope of rescue since his family believes him dead. Years pass until the day a beautiful woman enters his cell. Constance Portnoy, the treasured and protected ward of the Fitzroys, is seduced by Loutrant, the man who imprisoned Brian. Realizing too late, she becomes his latest prisoner.
More…

“This is the kind of book I love to read: a historical romance, even though it’s not the kind I write. The Prisoner kept me glued to my seat, staying up until the wee hours of the morning simply becauseI wanted to finish it.” – Marianne Gibson, WRDF Reviews
…full review
Buy from The Wild Rose Press


Shilo, by Kathie Harrington ☆☆☆☆☆
Inspirational, sweet

Holly Holder is 27 years old and has never dated; not because she hasn't wanted to but because Holly's social skills are awkward and communication is difficult. Holly is a young adult with autism. She has been autistic all of her life but she is experiencing independence in her living arrangements and a new freedom in her emotions. Those emotions center on Hal, whom she has discovered at church every Sunday from Easter through the beautiful Iowa fall.
More…

“Kathie Harrington does a wonderful job sharing the lives of two autistic people. It's refreshing to see a tale that's not filled with double entendres and the kind of communication games people often play.” – Dee Dailey, The Romance Studio
…full review
Buy from The Wild Rose Press

Wednesday, July 15, 2009

Best Romance Novel Reviews:
Special Edition 2

This week I'm posting part two of this special edition of "Find a Great Romance." I've gone through all my files for the last year and gathered a list of the best of the best from the Wild Rose Press. Each novel has received three (or more!) 5 star reviews from official review sites. Twelve were posted last week, and the final twelve are posted this week.

I'm sure you'll find a great romance novel to read here!


Losing Patience, by Kara Lynn Russell ☆☆☆☆☆
Inspirational, sweet

Shaun Thiesen’s jealous nature and quick temper drove his wife Patience away. Since then he’s been through counseling with Pastor Isaac and gotten involved with the church. Now he’s just waiting for his second chance. When he learns Patience is visiting her parents for Thanksgiving, he thinks this may be it. In only a few precious days he has to win back his wife, and suddenly the stakes are raised when Patience tells him he’s going to be a father. Can Shaun show convince her they deserve a second chance?

Losing Patience is a romance with a difference. Sweet and inspirational, this story runs the full gamut of feelings from despair to love.” – Orchid, Long and Short Reviews
…full review

“Ms. Russell has scored another winner with
Losing Patience….I highly recommend this book, as well as this author, as one of the best. This is definitely not to be missed.” – Brenda Talley, The Romance Studio
…full review

“Ms. Russell writes a story with such emotion that it’s hard not to fall in love with her story and her characters.” – Diana Coyle, Night Owl Romance
…full review
Buy from The Wild Rose Press


Love, Lilies, and the Unbroken Straw, by Teri Wilson ☆☆☆☆☆
Paranormal, sweet

Christabel Wilde’s life has just turned upside-down. With little more than the clothes on her back and her newly rescued Chihuahua tucked under her arm, she makes a pledge to start over and applies for a job as a groom at a horse rescue farm. Nevermind that she’s never been up close to a horse before, she has a bigger secret to hide.
More…

“A wonderful romance with a dash with of magic, LOVE, LILIES AND THE UNBROKEN STRAW is a great read….Kudos to Teri Wilson.” – Raakhee Suryaprakash, WRDF Reviews
…full review

Love, Lilies, and the Unbroken Straw is a sweet, sensitive story which shows the full range of Christabel’s feelings for her amazing gift, the horses and most of all Declan.” – Orchid, Long and Short Reviews
…full review

“I loved the sweet, tender way that the characters treated both each other and the animals under their care while still being able to have fun, tease and (please forgive the pun) horse around.” – Crystal, CK2S Kwips & Kritiques
…full review
Buy from The Wild Rose Press
Buy from Amazon


The Making of a Country Doctor, by Patrice Moore ☆☆☆☆☆
Contemporary, sensual

It’s hard to attract doctors — and women — to rural areas. Physician Ben Taylor, temporarily confined to a wheelchair after a motorcycle accident, desperately needs help running his medical clinic in remote Jasper, Idaho. But he never expected his new Resident Doctor, Julia Chambers, to be an exotic beauty. Julia is traumatized after losing a maternity patient during her emergency room rotation in Portland, Oregon, her trauma compounded by the desertion of her fiancé. She is seeking a place to hide and recover from her ordeal. She has no interest in developing a relationship with Ben.
More…

“Ms. Moore tackles the topic of running scared with ease and humor. You can’t help but identify with Julia and her troubles. There are moments where the story takes a dark turn, but Ms. Moore’s emotional writing keeps the reader entertained and glued to her seat.” – Tiger Lily, Long and Short Reviews
…full review

“Ms. Patrice Moore has penned a great story with a spellbinding plot….The ending of the book was quite surprising.” – Brenda Talley, The Romance Studio
…full review

“I loved how Ms. Moore told the story and weaved messages of hope, love and renewal throughout the pages. I highly recommend this story and it’s a definite keeper in my library.” – Diana Coyle, Night Owl Romance
…full review

“…
The Making of a Country Doctor is a very good book.The characters grew and matured, and the plot was well paced and satisfying.” – Jade Ryan, WRDF Reviews
…full review
Buy from The Wild Rose Press
Buy from Amazon


Out of Her League, by Kaylea Cross ☆☆☆☆☆
Suspense, spicy

Christa Bailey is one cut away from making the Olympic softball team when threats from an obsessed fan jeopardize her dream, and her safety. Forced to put her life on hold, she reluctantly turns to ERT officer Rayne Hutchinson for help, praying the police catch her stalker before she is cut from the team or does something stupid, like fall in love with her unattainable protector.
More…

“The author provides lots of tension and edge-of-your-seat action. The final resolution is a true nailbiter.” – Lynn Bushey, The Romance Studio
…full review

“I was so impressed by the depth of the story and how each different layer was carefully pulled together in the end. Truly one of the most remarkable stories I have read.” – Laura, Simply Romance Reviews
…full review

"Ms Cross writes well, with smoothness and polish and her ability to create sub plots means that she makes a rather hackneyed theme refreshing. Go for it- this is a super read." -- Vasiliki Scurfield, WRDF Reviews
...full review
Buy from The Wild Rose Press
Buy from Amazon


Rogue’s Challenge, by Jo Barrett ☆☆☆☆☆
Paranormal (Time Travel), spicy

He made a vow to fetch the woman back through time. 'Twas a task not taken lightly. But he had not predicted her stubbornness or her beauty.
More…

“Jo Barrett has written such a fun story. The constant banter between these two great characters kept me turning the pages to find out what their next battle of words would be about and who would win this round.” – Sandra, The Romance Studio …full review

""Rogue's Challenge", the sequel to "Highlander's Challenge", is a great all around read. The story of Jenny Maxwell and Ian Southernland is so well written I was disappointed when the book ended." -- Magnolia, Long and Short Reviews ...full review

Rogue's Challenge also received a 5 star review from "Simply Romance Reviews," but that website has apparently closed down.
Buy from The Wild Rose Press
Buy from Amazon


Said the Spider to the Fly, by Miss Mae ☆☆☆☆☆
Suspense, sweet

Mona Murphy returns to Copper Springs to attend her grandfather's memorial service. His passing appeared ordinary enough—the official report stated he'd tripped and fallen down the staircase. Yet Preston Hitchcock, the insurance agent who'd sold a half million-dollar policy to Mona's grandfather days before the old man died, isn't convinced, especially when bloody towels are discovered in the backyard.
More…

“I loved this little romance mystery!... The story had an old fashioned feel to it that made me think of a small town “genteel” era.” – Martha E., You Gotta Read Reviews …full review

“Miss Mae has skilfully woven a web of intrigue and danger that draws you in and introduces you to characters who may or may not be what they seem.” – Andrea, WRDF Reviews …full review

“At first, this book appeared to be a sweet romance with nothing out of the ordinary to make it special. Not so!” – Orchid, Long and Short Reviews …full review

“This is a nifty little puzzle with a shocker of a solution.” – Lynn Bushey, The Romance Studio …full review
Buy from The Wild Rose Press
Buy from Amazon


Saving Grace, by Patrice Moore ☆☆☆☆☆
Suspense, spicy

Detective Patrick Hess is on a mission to find Margo, the missing ex-wife of a powerful man in Buffalo, New York. His search takes him to rural Oregon, where he focuses on a woman named Grace McNeal. Circumstantial evidence makes him believe that Grace is the woman he is seeking?but he's not quite sure. If Grace is indeed Margo, then she's done a remarkable job of altering not only her circumstances but her appearance as well.
More…

This overwhelming tale of heartache, spousal abuse, betrayal, and trust pulls the reader deep into the lives of Grace and Patrick, and holds firmly long after the story is over. They will live in my heart always.” – Linda L., Fallen Angel Reviews
…full review

"Patrice Moore has created a wonderful, suspenseful tale of survival in the face of astounding odds." -- Sandra, The Romance Studio
...full review

"I Joyfully Recommend
Saving Grace because of the detail, sensitivity, and compassion intricate to Grace’s experiences as a victim of abuse and the hardships she faced on the road to recovery." – Beth Anne, Joyfully Reviewed
...full review
Buy from The Wild Rose Press
Buy from Amazon


The Sweetheart Dance, by Patti Ann Colt ☆☆☆☆☆
Contemporary, spicy

Although Echo Falls high school teacher Meg Applegate aches to belong to Bret Cara body and soul, he maintains a hands-off policy. She is wife material and violates his no relationship philosophy based on years with combative parents. But when a practical joker spikes Meg’s drinks at the Valentine’s Day Sweetheart Dance, Bret comes to her rescue – and she astounds him with a hot, sensual kiss. Assisting the police department in tracking teen felons, Meg takes the opportunity to snag the handsome cop’s attention and they launch an affair based on Bret’s ‘no strings’ rules. But each searing encounter conflicts with her beliefs and dreams. She cannot maintain
More…

“I quickly fell in love with the town of Echo Falls and the family of Meg Applegate, a high school teacher who longs for police officer Bret Cara…. The Sweetheart Dance is a wonderful story that I have no reservations about recommending.” – Lilac, Long and Short Reviews
…full review

The Sweetheart Dance is well-written and full of interesting characters that I hope to see again in the future.” – Jacquelyn R. Ward, The Romance Studio
…full review

“A Top Read, THE SWEETHEART DANCE is a simple plot that packs a solid punch.” – Raakhee Suryaprakash, WRDF Reviews
…full review
Buy from The Wild Rose Press
Buy from Amazon


There’s Only Been You, by Donna Marie Rogers ☆☆☆☆☆
Contemporary, spicy

Malicious lies, drugs and a videotape are the reasons young lovers Sara Jamison and Mike Andrews have spent the last eight years apart, each believing the other betrayed them. Sara has no clue where Mike's been all these years, but she knows where she's been busy raising their son.
More…

“A well-thought-out story with an all-too-appropriate title, There's Only Been You has enough twists and turns to throw readers for a wild ride, but authoress Donna Marie Rogers does an excellent job of making it flow and keeps us turning pages one right after the other with her effortless prose and heartfelt characters.” – Sweet Pea, Long and Short Reviews
…full review

“Saying that I enjoyed THERE’S ONLY BEEN YOU would be putting it mildly. Especially when I stayed up half the night to finish it, glued to the story.” – Ali, Wild on Books
…full review

“Donna Marie Rogers has another hit. You can’t miss THERE’S ONLY BEEN YOU!” – Becky Gaede, Dark Angel Reviews
…full review
Buy from The Wild Rose Press
Buy from Amazon


A Trail of Love, by Bess McBride ☆☆☆☆☆
Contemporary (later life), sensual

Kerrie is on the run from a painful past, and she hides in plain sight as a summer employee in the majestic setting of Glacier National Park. Lonely and isolated from the family and friends she left behind, she dreams of the day when a kind and gentle man will say to her: “I fell in love with you the first time I saw you across the room.”
More…

“This was an awesome read, filled with a great mixture of romance and suspense.” – Dawn, WRDF Reviews
…full review

"I can’t recall the last time I read a book that left me on the edge of my seat, shushing my kids and husband, dying to find out how each of the characters would react to the twists and turns that molded them into who they are." -- Laura, Simply Romance Reviews
...full review

"Ms. McBride wrote this story from the heart and she even had me laughing at loud during some of the scenes." -- Diana Coyle, Night Owl Romance
...full review
Buy from the Wild Rose Press
Buy from Amazon


A Train through Time, by Bess McBride ☆☆☆☆☆
Vintage, sweet

College teacher Ellie Standish thinks she’s on a sleek modern train heading to a conference on women’s studies in Seattle, but she awakens from a night’s doze to find herself on a bizarre historical train full of late Victorian era reenactors who refuse to come out of character. When the leader of the group—one handsome, green-eyed Robert Chamberlain—finally convinces her the date is indeed 1901, a skeptical Ellie decries any eccentric theories of time travel and presumes she is smack dab in the middle of a very interesting historical dream.
More…

“For this mix of historical detail, romance, and suspense, this reader found reading A Train Through Time a thoroughly enjoyable experience.” – Whitney, Fallen Angel Reviews
…full review

"Bess McBride brings the past to life in her fabulous rendition of a time travel story where love conquers all." -- Rebecca Savage, WRDF Reviews ...full review

"Ms. McBride did a wonderful job of transporting me back and forth through time with Ellie....Don’t pass this one up!" -- Diana Coyle, Night Owl Romance ...full review

Buy from The Wild Rose Press
Buy from Amazon


Reviewer Top Pick
The Valentine Edition, by Robin Lee Shope ☆☆☆☆☆
Inspirational, sweet

The last place in the world Jodi Williams wanted to live was Turtle Creek, Wisconsin, but when her stepdad refused to put in a good word for her at the Chicago paper, she had no other choice than to accept the first job offer that came her way. Josh Thomas was Turtle Creek's veterinarian, but he also happened to be single and quite handsome. His life was pretty peaceful until a pretty, young stranger came to his clinic with a dog that had been hit by a car.
More…

“I can’t wait to read the other books in this series if THE VALENTINE EDITION is typical of the Turtle Creek Editions.… A definite keeper!” – Raakhee Suryaprakash, WRDF Reviews
…full review

The Valentine Edition is a real treat, better than chocolates in a heart-shaped box - well, almost.” – Kara Lynn Russell, Novel Editions
…full review

“Robin Schope did a beautiful job in this inspirational romance….The Valentine Edition is a great book and definitely shows that people do deserve a second chance whether in love or in life.” – Melinda, Night Owl Romance
…full review
Buy from The Wild Rose Press
Buy from Amazon

Thursday, July 9, 2009

Best Romance Novel Reviews:
Special Edition

I'm away from my desk--however, for the next two weeks I've prepared a special treat! I've gone through all my files for the last year and gathered a list of the best of the best from the Wild Rose Press. Each novel has received three (or more!) 5 star reviews from official review sites. Twelve books will be posted this week, and twelve next week.

I'm sure among these books, you'll find a great romance novel to read!


Between the Lines, by Kathy Otten ☆☆☆☆☆
Historical (Western), spicy

Anxious to escape the confines of her loving, but overprotective family, Meg Greyson travels to Wyoming Territory to marry the man of her dreams. Only she discovers Brendan Kelly is nothing like the gentleman rancher who penned her beautiful letters.
More…

"Brendan is the perfect tortured hero. I wasn’t sure if I should cry over the injustice of his past or swoon over his quiet strength." -- Bella, Fallen Angel Reviews
...full review

“This marvelous book is one which requires reading the very last word before all questions are answered. I loved it and highly recommend it.” -- Brenda Talley, The Romance Studio …full review

Buy from The Wild Rose Press
Buy from Amazon


Blood Wine and Pale Roses,
by Denysé Bridger
☆☆☆☆☆
Paranormal, spicy

Eden Colbourne has spent most of her life pursuing dreams that never quite came true. Running from yet another failed relationship, she seeks solace in the familiar surroundings of England's countryside, and her art. Drawn to the remnants of the abbey, she spends her days sketching the face of a man she believes is a ghost haunting both the abbey and her heart. The reality is even more disturbing...
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“For being a short read may I just say WOW! The amount of passion and description in this story rocked my world.” – Kersyn, Bitten by Books
…full review

““Blood Wine and Pale Roses” kept me on the edge of my seat from the first page.” – Amaranth, Long and Short Reviews …full review

Blood Wine and Pale Roses is an excellent book for both paranormal fans and those looking for something new and different to read.” – Melissa C., Fallen Angel Reviews
…full review
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Caribbean Dreams of Love, by Bess McBride ☆☆☆☆☆
Paranormal, sensual

Daisy and her sixteen-year-old daughter, Lilly, are embarking on a Caribbean cruise. She isn't looking for anything special on the cruise other than a pleasant break from her humdrum existence as long-time divorced single mother to a busy teenage girl. She certainly isn't prepared for an enigmatic man named Peter whose idiosyncrasies in dress and speech mark him as an eccentric person to avoid. But Daisy can't avoid him. In fact, she begins to obsess about him from the first moment she catches him staring at her in the cruise ship terminal.
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“The book cleverly weaves a tale of pirates, the beauty of the Carribean and the cultivating of friendships that begin in the most unlikely of places.” – Laura, You Gotta Read Reviews
…full review

“This is such a heart warming book! ….This is a must read for dreamers and to those who never stop looking for true love.” – Amylove, WRDF Reviews
…full review

“Ms. McBride has outdone herself yet again. I absolutely adored this story!” – Diana Coyle, Night Owl Reviews
…full review
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The Commander’s Desire, by Jennette Green ☆☆☆☆☆
Historical, sensual

Princess Elwytha wants revenge on the monster who murdered her brother. In a false exchange for peace, she offers herself in marriage to the enemy Prince. The plan? Kill the Prince’s battle-scarred Commander—the man who ended King Thor’s life with one filthy sword thrust through the back. To her horror, the Commander agrees to take Elwytha as his bride…
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Top Pick
“Ms. Green’s portrayal of the Commander was refreshing. He was kind and caring without being wimpy, and it takes a talented author to bring that out in a character without losing the effect of being a strong alpha warrior while keeping the reader's interest at the same time....THE COMMANDER'S DESIRE is definitely a keeper.” – Sheila Smith, Romance Reader at Heart …full review

“A very nice play on my favorite Beauty And The Beast theme, THE COMMANDER'S DESIRE pairs a beautiful warrior-princess with an ugly giant who is a gentle dear underneath all that muscle. It is a touching and wonderful tale.” – Stephie, Cupid’s Library Reviews …full review

“The Commander’s Desire is a historical novel that reaches you deep down to your soul….Simply stated, I loved this book. No matter what genre you read or what heat level you enjoy, you will be enthralled with The Commander’s Desire.” – Cindy K. Green, WRDF Reviews
…full review
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Courting Trouble, by Renee Knowles ☆☆☆☆☆
Historical, spicy

Lord Anthony Darby is determined to marry a wife with an exemplary reputation. Then he sees his childhood companion, gorgeous, scandalous, Lily Kennyon again. And all he wants is her in his bed. He decides to avoid her. Until her father makes him an irresistible offer...
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"Courting Trouble simmers with emotion." -- Kimber, Fallen Angel Reviews ...full review

"Sedate Anthony and Fiery Lily light up the pages with their witty repartee and steamy courtship....Full marks for COURTING TROUBLE, as they court each other Anthony and Lily will win your hear too!!!" -- Raakhee Suryaprakash, WRDF Reviews ...full review

"Renee Knowles did an amazing job with this book. A simple story line, full of passion and emotions, I was drawn in immediately." -- Amaranth, Long and Short Reviews
...full review
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Do You Hear What I Hear?, by Teri Wilson ☆☆☆☆☆
Paranormal, sweet

As a child, Simone Littleton adores the European folktale that animals are given the gift of speech at midnight on Christmas Eve. She makes a wish to talk to animals "forever and ever" and, when her pet Dalmatian asks her for a biscuit, she discovers her wish has been granted. Now Simone is all grown up and she uses her unique gift to rehabilitate unwanted horses. When racehorse trainer Chet Wallace rolls into San Antonio, with chocolate eyes and dimples blazing beneath his black Stetson, romantic sparks fly.
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“This is a fantastic, emotionally stimulating, Christmas romance story that will leave you believing in the magic of Christmas and love! ” – Stephanie B., Fallen Angel Reviews


“I was totally charmed by this book from the first page. Teri Wilson creates a wonderful slate of characters, human, canine and equine, that grab your heart and won’t let go.” – Crystal, CK2S Kwips and Kritiques

“I loved how the author came up with the creative storyline of Simone being able to communicate with animals and I was truly heartbroken with how she was treated by most people because of her special gift.” – Diana Coyle, Night Owl Romance ...full review
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Dragonstone, by Michelle Young ☆☆☆☆☆
Paranormal, spicy

Lady Katerina is the independent, headstrong heir to the Latharian throne, the one to fulfill the prophecy and defeat Black magic. When betrayal and a violent Awakening transforms her own magical Dragonstone Black, she vanquishes it, rendering her virtually powerless. Now, after a three year sojourn, she returns to claim her crown and discovers sinister forces are working against her. Though able to handle a weapon as well as any man, Katerina reluctantly agrees to a personal guard. Amongst the candidates, one man emerges, the handsome but infuriating knight, Sir Logan Shepherd.
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Dragonstone sparked my imagination in the first few moments and kept me reading through the night…. Fabulous!” – Jaded, Bitten by Books
…full review

“This is one fine story of magic, of fantasy, love, and belief….
Dragonstone is definitely a recommended read, a guaranteed satisfaction and a fantastic book.” – Amy Love, WRDF Reviews
…full review

“Michele Young takes the reader into a land of dragons, elves, trolls, and giants. The characters are so lively that you can’t help but become connected with them.” – Lynn, ReviewYourBook.com
…full review
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Finding Joy, by Kara Lynn Russell ☆☆☆☆☆
Inspirational, sweet

Shy Joy Harper, the organist for Orchard Hill Community Church, has long been overlooked by Pastor Isaac. Then Pansy Parker announces she’s retiring and Joy is asked to fill in as secretary. With an unusually large number of weddings coming up and the Christmas holidays looming, Joy and Isaac put in a lot of hours together and he discovers a beautiful and caring woman beneath Joy’s reserved façade. Can he convince her that the only gift he wants for Christmas is her heart?

“I sure “found joy” in this book and heartily recommend not only FINDING JOY but also the entire Orchard Hill series.” -- Raakhee Suryaprakash, WRDF Reviews
…full review

“[Kara Lynn Russell’s] style is upbeat, sometimes comical, and always romantic.” -- Brenda Talley, The Romance Studio
…full review

“This book could have been a bit too sweet, but it wasn’t. Instead the feelings of Isaac and Joy were treated with tenderness and understanding.” – Orchid, Long and Short Reviews
…full review
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First Sight to Last, by Sharon Horton ☆☆☆☆☆
Suspense, sensual

Confident and self-reliant, Special Agent, Singer McLaine believes earning the elite Point Four status will be as routine as all her other assignments have been.… It's because of her abilities, that when two police detectives are missing in action, Singer's skills are called upon. Proficient in her craft Singer finds the detectives, and in one of them, Evan Wolcott, thinks she's found a kindred spirit. She thought wrong.
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"FIRST SIGHT TO LAST is a must read romantic suspense by Sharon Horton that will keep you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end." -- Becky Gaede, Dark Angel Reviews ...full review

"With a great plot, sensational secondary characters, and intrigue that bites, this is one story that I found excellent." -- Linda L., Fallen Angel Reviews
...full review

“Sharon Horton has done a superb job crafting this story.” – Dee Dailey, The Romance Studio
…full review
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Forever from Paris, by Nicola Beaumont ☆☆☆☆☆
Inspirational (Contemporary), sweet

The Desire of her heart... Finally, a man who doesn't think Marie is a bumbling fool for not being able to articulate her thoughts. Kind, thoughtful, attentive...handsome: He's definitely the answer to her prayer for a devoted husband. A promise of forever... Observant, funny, shy...gorgeous: Martin is tempted by the thought of a lifetime with Marie, but he must put aside his desire, for his heart is not free to love another woman.
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“This short story by Nicola Beaumont is totally unique and beyond cataloging into a normal romance subgenre.” – Kara Lynn Russell, Novel Editions
…full review

"
Forever from Paris is a forever love story and one that brought tears to my eyes." -- Rose, Long and Short Reviews
...full review

"Nicola Beaumont has deftly written a beautiful, bittersweet story of true love....This inspirational story is a pleasure to read." -- Jaye Dee, Fallen Angel Reviews
...full review
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Forty Something, by Mary Eason ☆☆☆☆☆
Contemporary (later life), sweet

Some mistakes are easy to forget, while others can become glaring reminders of past failures that stand ready to haunt you for the rest of your life. For Laney Winters, life is full of glaring reminders. Starting with the fact that she's pregnant at forty-one, has just been divorced by her louse of an ex-husband who has a fetish for his secretaries, and, to top it off, has been forced by financial circumstances to move back home to live with her two very eccentric, matchmaking old-maid aunts.
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“Mary Eason has crafted a romance novel that sparkles with emotion and verve from start to finish….I highly recommend this book.” – Black-eyed Susan, Long and Short Reviews
…full review

“I truly enjoyed this book. It was not at all what I was expecting and was not all smooth sailing. However, the poignant storyline endeared it to me and I won’t soon forget it.” -- Brenda Talley, The Romance Studio
…full review

"I really enjoyed this book....For those who wonder, this is a sweet romance that has no graphic love scenes, but which is full of heart-warming love." -- Jean, Fallen Angel Reviews
...full review
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Let Nothing You Dismay, by Linda Swift ☆☆☆☆☆
Contemporary (later life), sweet

Kala’s position as a tour guide at a Kentucky Welcome Center isn't enough to cope with huge debts left by her late husband's illness, but she manages to make ends meet…until her car quits running. To save money on repairs, she enrolls in an auto-maintenance class taught by Rex, a handsome part-time instructor whose broken heart needs repairing, too.
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“Ms. Linda Swift has excelled in this fast-paced work set around the holiday season….I highly recommend this book.” – Brenda Talley, The Romance Studio
…full review

“Linda Swift did an amazing job with
Let Nothing You Dismay….I would definitely recommend this book to anyone wanting to read a sweet romantic story.” – Violet, Long and Short Reviews
…full review

“Beautifully written, there is warmth exuding from this book that makes you feel happy: it is a winner; a book to keep and read over and over again.” – Andrea, WRDF Reviews
…full review
Buy from The Wild Rose Press

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