Book review for: "the violin"

Book review for: "The violin"
Posted by: Sarah j. McNeal
: Rebecca j. Vickery Publisher
Success as: print & eBook
4 Star

M. pens a haunting romance of full of longing and desire with "the violin." Genevieve Beaumont born and raised at the present time, but when she discovered a violin owned by a man who died in 1927, her heart hurts to learn more about him. Car Genevi?ve follow her heart, where whatever it takes or the secrets that keeps violin destroy their chances in the search for happiness?

The story begins with Genevi?ve, teachers in modern times. Genevi?ve grew up in foster homes and not have a strong sense of family. Scrolls to a newspaper, she learns to sell a violin. There's something about the violin, that deeply resonates something in their souls, which they cannot explain. Hoping to settle their fear, Genevi?ve is looking for violin and buys it.

Now, their curiosity to discover what was the man who owned it - John Douglas have in their possession, Genevi?ve complaints. Fear, yet determined, Genevieve takes a journey of the heart, North Carolina to the hills of Pennsylvania let go. The old town is still there, but the Douglas Homestead lies in ruins. Genevieve is to stop when she falls and hits his head on the edge of their search. When she awakes she learns that it is 1927. The Homestead is flourishing and John is in his twenties. Genevi?ve goes with the flow and makes fast friends with Johns family. The attraction between Genevi?ve and John is strong. Genevi?ve longs, in 1927 with John stay internal conflicts, but cloud their decision making. It has also questions that must be answered. How time they travel? Their presence is time change? John has his own secrets. Is the power of love over time and history come from dictation?

M. arouses the curiosity of the reader, building the mystery of surrounding John violin well. Genevi?ve follows that draw attention and leads the reader along for the ride. The author has done their research, and it shows. The story is rich in details and description, paint the romantic surroundings.

The characters are interesting. Genevieve is afraid of many things, but dare to overcome their fears. John is patient and steadfast, trains in a hero that are admirable. Also, the supporting cast is a joy.

What I most enjoyed was the end. There is a plot twist, which creeps to the reader and puts everything that Genevi?ve had in view.

The story is "sensual" for Romance readers with Genevi?ve and John parts heated kisses. The love scene is tasteful and embodies the couple shares the passion.

As a whole, "The violin" tells a gripping story, full of emotions, that makes the reader believe that love overcomes everything - even time.

Tested by: S. Burkhart

StephB is an author who like to read many books and a variety of different genres. StephB is an author at http://www.Writing.com / is a site for creative writing.

Book Review for: Innocent Deception

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Book Review for: "Innocent Deception"
Written by: Tami Dee
Desert Breeze Publishing
ISBN: 978-1-61252-085-8
Avail as ebook only
5 Stars

Dee pens a suspenseful tale fraught with lies, greed, betrayals, and love with "Innocent Deception." Since the night Ceana and Sorsha were born, lies have dictated the path their lives have taken. When Scotland's Silent Scourge must take a wife, will something finally good come out of a lifetime of deception?

The story opens in Scotland, 1030 AD. It's a tough time with Viking raiders attacking the coast, and surviving depends more on a man's fists than kindness. The night Ceana and Sorsha are born, the twins are separated from their mother. Sorsha is raised as the laird's legitimate daughter while Ceana is forced to serve as her maid. Several miles away, at the MacLean Castle, the laird does not find favor with his legitimate first born son, favoring his illegitimate son. After a night of heavy drinking, the laird beats his wife within an inch of her life. Secretly, she sneaks away to her father's estates to keep herself, and her sons, safe.

Royal Ethan MacLean finds safety with his mother's family. He grows into a strong, strapping lad, earning the reputation of the Silent Scourge of Scotland for his fierce fighting skills and his silence. Ethan, however, is quiet for a reason. He suffers from a stuttering problem.

Ethan is forced into taking a wife when Sorsha's family kidnaps his brother, Sionn, holding him hostage until the wedding. Reluctantly, Ethan agrees.

Sorsha and her maid, Ceana, are escorted to Ethan's home, by Diarmard, Ethan's cousin. During the escort, Diarmard discovers Sorsha's temperament is despicable and her behavior toward Ceana is abusive. When Sorsha has an accident and "dies," Diarmard concocts a plan to save Ceana's life. Will Ceana's innocent deception save hers and Sionn's life or result in bloodshed?

Dee weaves a tight, fast-paced plot which will surprise the reader and keep them guessing. The dialogue brings a nice authenticity to the story. The descriptions allow the reader to picture Ceana's world without lingering.

Both Ceana and Ethan have obstacles to overcome. Ceana has to learn how to deal with her shyness due to Sorsha's abuse. Her inner strength is something to be admired. Ethan discovers that at times kindness is a better way to handle a problem than with his fists. His perseverance and loyalty are qualities that bring out the heroism in him. The supporting cast is interesting as each learns to deal with deception in their own way.

The love scenes are sensual, hinting at an emotional intimacy deeper than the physical. "Innocent Deception" will have the reader on the edge of their seat wanting to learn about Ceana's ultimate fate. The story promises to linger long after the reader puts it down.

Reviewed by: S. Burkhart

StephB is an author who likes to read many books and a variety of different genres. StephB is an author at http://www.Writing.Com/ which is a site for Creative Writing.

Book Review for: "Claimed by the Highlander"

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Book Review for: Claimed by the Highlander
Written by: Julianne MacLean
St. Martin's Paperback
ISBN: 978-1-4229-6532-3
Avail: in print and eBook
5 Stars

MacLean pens a story filled with adventure, suspense and romance. Angus MacDonald storms the gates of Kinloch Castle intent on claiming his family's home, only now the MacEwens are there and in order to claim the heart of the castle, he'll need to earn Gwendolen MacEwen's love.

Set in 1718 Scotland, Gwendolen's family was given Kinloch Castle for their support of the English Hanoverian King. Unfortunately, her father has recently passed, leaving the castle vulnerable. Enter Angus MacDonald. His father previously held the castle. He storms the gates and asserts his right as the new laird. He also announces his intention to wed Gwendolen.

The MacEwen lass is mortified by Angus' plan, but strikes a deal to marry him to keep the peace when she witnesses his leniency toward her clan. Still, she betrays him by sending a letter to the local English garrison asking for help.

Angus is furious to learn that his intended betrayed him, but he holds firm to his promise not to bed her until their wedding night.

Despite all the initial anger and hurt between Angus and Gwen, there's no denying the raw, primal attraction between the two. Gwen softens toward her intended when she observes little acts of compassion from him. Angus awakens Gwen's sensual side and soon learns that he enjoys his wife's lovemaking. Angus and Gwen come together over common ground, but can they build the trust needed to keep Kinloch from falling into the wrong hands?

MacLean grabs the reader in the opening chapter with a suspenseful and intense fight and the plot never lets up. The vivid descriptions and authentic dialogue make Angus' and Gwen's story spring into life.

The most enjoyable part of the novel is the rich characterization of Angus and Gwen along with a strong supporting cast.

Angus is a warrior who has made mistakes. He doesn't think he can atone for them, but Gwen's growing affection give him something he's never known before - hope. The scene with Angus and Gwen in the chapel allows Angus to really grow as a character as well as lets the couple shine romantically.

Gwen is proud and haunty. Angus shows her unexpected compassion which softens her edges. Gwen must learn to trust and prove to Angus she means what she says.

The love scenes are sensual and romantic and allow for Gwen and Angus to really connect as a couple. "Claimed by the Highlander," will leave the reader breathless. You can't put it down.

Reviewed by: S. Burkhart

StephB is an author who likes to read many books and a variety of different genres. StephB is an author at http://www.Writing.Com/ which is a site for Creative Writing.

Book Review For: "No More Lies"

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Book Review for: No More Lies
Written by: Mona Risk
Published by: Mona Risk
Avail as: ebook
5 Stars

Risk explores the damage lies can do to love in "No More Lies." Dr. Olivia Crane is a successful psychiatrist. Her world is turned upside down when her old boyfriend, Lucien George is invited to her university to consult. Will Olivia's lifelong lies interfere with her efforts to rekindle her relationship with Luc?

Set in contemporary Ohio, Risk places the reader in the middle of Olivia's problems right off the bat. Ten years prior, she had an intense romantic relationship with a French doctor, Luc George, but she called it off when she thought it interfered with her ability to keep her daughter, Melissa, safe. Luc is back now and all of Olivia's old feelings for him are rekindled.

Adding to Olivia's confusion is Melissa's father, Jeremy Rutherford, Olivia's ex-boyfriend. He showed no care or concern for her when he found out she was pregnant, so Olivia raised Melissa on her own with the help of her parents. Rutherford is now forced to seek psychiatric help for mental health issues. Olivia told her daughter her father was dead and a war hero in order to keep her safe from her abusive father. Now, however, as Olivia's lie threatens to unravel when Melissa expresses interest in her father, Olivia needs Luc's strength and support more than ever.

Luc is stunned to learn that Olivia never told him about her daughter. When he realizes the magnitude of Olivia's lies, he urges her to confess the truth to her daughter. Can Olivia find the courage to tell the truth and give Luc's love a second chance?

Risk's engaging plot pulls the reader effortlessly into the story. Risk handles the subject with grace and sensitivity.

The characters are wonderfully complex and dynamic. Luc is noble and honest to a fault, but his inner strength never fails Olivia when she needs him the most. Olivia has made a successful career for herself, but her determination to protect Melissa has driven her to lies which threaten her future. The supporting cast is a delightful compliment to Olivia and Luc's story and really demonstrates how rich and full their lives are.

Risk's writing is easy to read and pulls on the heartstrings. "No More Lies" presents a problem many face today. How Olivia handles her issues will offer hope to those who are dealing with similar circumstances.

The love scenes are sensual and tasteful, embodying a sweet hunger that has simmered between Olivia and Luc for years. "No More Lies," will resonate with readers and make them believe that love can overcome even the most challenging of obstacles.

Reviewed by: S. Burkhart

Steph B is an author who likes to read many books and a variety of different genres. Steph B is an author at http://www.Writing.Com/ which is a site for Creative Writing.

After the night by Linda Howard - a review

Since she was a girl, Devlin think excellent, sophisticated gray Rouillard revered. They are at opposite ends of the social scale. Grays father practically owns the small township of Prescott and believe looks grey as the ideal young heroes. The image is destroyed in a disastrous night, which forever changed the lives of grey and faith.

Grays father, has finally gone over the edge a notorious womanizer and left his family disappear in the night with his beloved - faiths mother. Discovery of these disappear, takes gray of remove ownership shack in the middle of the night, from the Rouillard the them for free, in its overwhelming anger on the belief and the rest of her family had lived.

The memory of this evening is the rest of the life of faith. Your goal is it, back to Prescott and find out, what really happened grays father (Guy) and her mother (Renee). Faith has worked very hard to improve their fate and make something of themselves. It is no longer the small town girl from a family of white trash.

Faith expects, that they not be widely greeted on their return to Prescott - their family reputation of petty thieving city twelve years later still stuck, is. It helps that she is the image of the mother not your case.

In an effort to protect his remaining family members, gray tried, again believe out of the city, this time by make it difficult for them, simply run live. His plans are thwarts in various ways. Faith is determined, stay in Prescott until she has solved the puzzle. Someone in the city is unimpressed with investigations of the faith, and begins to threaten them. Gray discovers that he is attracted to believe, and fiercely protective of her found. He spends more time with her, and she shares some findings raised more questions, make him wondering what really stand that night 12 years ago.

While the whole plot of the story in order, my main comment about this story is my difficulties with the preference of the hero as a person.

While the readers of grays know to appreciate attraction physical attractions and links over-from your youth faith on him, can, he was and is not the nicest person ever. For a man of a bit of a soft spot for the faith as a fourteen year old girl have he showed absolutely friends no care or concern for their well-being if he watching her family Karg possessions, to collect, which police had thrown out of the House and into the courtyard of his. During their desperate collection of objects, she was disabled by their legs from her six-year retarded brother holding all the time. She had been so much sacrifice of his father and her mother had actions as a 22-year old gray, but he put them through this additional trauma. To do this, he tells her that she is "nothing but rubbish".

He repeated this formula 12 years later, when he enters her from her motel room. (He has the only motel in the city.) He has no concerns, shake or grabbed her wrists until he leaves a blue spot. That makes him borderline offensive, make it difficult, refer him as the romantic hero. It makes the reader believe what questions it looks, especially if he does or says nothing, even to redeem in his words and actions of 12 years ago.

So sit not the almost instant attraction between them twelve years later, without any information about or excuse on this night, right with me. There were too many problems which have been addressed, should not. Also gray jumped as a total Playboy, suddenly only with character or relationship believe, with not much between to want to be. Only it seemed resolved get lust, the secret let's get immediately then married. There was very little exploration of the reason why they should be together.

Book Review: The Bridges of Madison County by Robert James Waller

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Before writing this review, I did a bit of browsing of reviews already posted in Goodreads and saw mostly 1 star ratings. I felt quite sad because I really liked the story and how it was written. The prose bears a little semblance to Nicholas Sparks and Nicholas Evans, two authors of some books that I liked, and is probably one of the reasons why it was easy for me to fall in love with the story.

Francesca Johnson is celebrating her sixty-seventh birthday, and just like her previous birthdays, she has reserved the day for ceremonies that consists mainly of reminiscing the events that changed her life twenty-two years ago starting on the day she met photographer Robert Kincaid.

The Bridges of Madison County is a very poignant story of two individuals brought together by time and fate, and how they discovered the power of love and loving. It is also a story about choice and how the choices we make can affect us for the rest of our lives.

I love it that the book doesn't have lots of characters to make me confused. It is a very short and easy read, albeit very emotional and deeply profound. There are many parts in the book that should have been good starting points for discussion. I should have looked for reading buddies before reading the book. Is it possible to love two persons at the same time? When is it right to fight for love and to let go?

***Little spoilers from here on. I can understand the dislike of most of the people towards the book because like them, I also do not tolerate the adultery. In fact, during the first chapters, I already made up my mind to dislike the book. However, when I reached the last few chapters, I became convinced that yes, there is actually something to think about in this book. I cannot count how many times I cried sobbed while reading the later parts of the story. My heart goes out to Robert especially, how he lived his life alone and away from the love of his life, until the day of his death. The last chapter actually did me. I was sobbing loudly while reading and I started having hiccups.

The Bridges of Madison County is a very beautiful love story and I would love to read this again when I am in one of those emotional moods.

4 stars.

Book Review for "Ancient Blood"

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Written by: Barbara Edwards
Wild Rose Press
ISBN: 1-60154-916-4
Avail as: print & ebook book
4.5 Stars

Edwards crafts a paranormal tale that intrigues with the mystery of ancient blood, suspense, and love. Lily Alban has relocated to the small New England town of Rhodes End to avoid a human stalker, but danger has found her. Can Cole keep her safe or will his secret drive her away?

"Ancient Blood," Book Two of the "Finding Rhodes End" series is set in the cold harsh winter of January. Lily is new to the town, but soon makes friends. Melanie is a dedicated cop, and Jane, a dedicate employee of the Benedict pharmaceutical company. Cole Benedict runs the company. He also has a secret - he's a werewolf. In fact, several members of the pack live in Rhodes End.

While Lily is attracted to Cole, she learns her stalker has followed her to Rhodes End which puts her on edge. Further complicating matters Lily soon discovers she has an animal stalker as well.

Lily confides in Melanie (Mel) and the chief. After several women in the town are attacked, including Jane, Cole partners with Mel's boyfriend, Steve, to have his blood analyzed. He's desperate to mate with Lily, but fears if he gets her with child, it will be the death of her, as wolf mothers have a tendency not to survive. When Cole saves Lily from a vicious attack, he confesses his secret to her and the couple makes love. Can Lily accept Cole for the man he is?

Edwards pens an intriguing plot with many angles, which will keep the reader on their toes. Cole and Lily's story is in the forefront as they fight against their attraction in the face of danger. Steve, Cole's friend, works hard to overcome a mutation that prevents him from fully committing to Mel.

Edwards uses a good economy of words to paint rich descriptions and set the scene. The pacing never slows, keeping the reader guessing what's coming next. Secrets blend effortlessly into the story and the reader is drawn to them like moths to a flame.

Cole and Lily are interesting characters. Cole has a lot of responsibility on his shoulders as leader of the pack. He's noble, honest, and protective. The chemistry between Cole and Lily could fuel a bonfire for a year.

Lily is a hard worker, focused, and determined, despite her good sense, she longs to be with Cole, but dare she when two men stalk her?

I'm picky about my wolves, but what I really enjoyed about Edwards story was her focus on the humanity, allowing the wolves human qualities to shine in the face of adversity.

The love scenes are "sophisticated" for the readers, capturing the rich sensuality of Lily and Cole's romance. "Ancient Blood" blends humanity and the paranormal effortlessly, depicting the strength of the human heart. The novel will engage the reader on the first page and won't let go until the last.

Steph B is an author who likes to read many books and a variety of different genres. Steph B is an author at http://www.Writing.Com/ which is a site for Creative Writing.

Book Review for: "The Arrival of Lily Curtis"

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Book Review for: The Arrival of Lily Curtis
Written by: Rachel Brimble
Wild Rose Press
ISBN: 978-1-60154-792-7
Avail as: Ebook & Print book
260 pages
5 Stars

Set in the late Victorian age, Brimble pens a delightful romance about a woman looking for more and a man who will accept nothing less. Lady Elizabeth Caughley wants her independence in a society dictated by strict rules. Lord Andrew Baxter wants freedom from a promise he believes restricts him. When they meet the sparks fly. Does love fit into what they want out of life?

The novel opens with Elizabeth refusing her parents' choice for a husband. Seeking her independence, she agrees to work as a maid for six months with their approval. They make arrangements for her employment with Viscount Westrop, Lord Andrew Baxter.

Andrew is under pressure by his ailing father to get married and produce an heir, but Andrew is not in a rush. There's an undercurrent of anxiety thrumming through his veins. He wants to be in love with the woman he marries. Still, he entertains Lady Tasmin, who is a cousin to his best friend, Charles Winchester.

As soon as Elizabeth, now Lily Curtis, arrives at her place of employment, Nicholas, the butler, puts her right to work. Her uniform is too tight and shows off ample amounts of her cleavage. Lily serves dinner. Andrew can't take his eyes off her. Neither can his friend, Charles. Despite all his instincts, Andrew is drawn to Lily. Lily doesn't want to fall in love, but she can't deny the attraction she feels toward Andrews. Lily must make a choice, as must Andrew. Will Lily choose independence over love and will Andrew follow society's rules or his heart?

Brimble's story shines with delightful characters against a Victorian backdrop. The plot moves effortlessly. Brimble uses a delicious economy of words to paint Lily's world, which doesn't slow down the reader's enjoyment. The dialogue captures the rich authenticity of the times.

The most appealing aspect of the story is the wonderful characterization. Lily seeks to make her own way in a society that discourages it for women. Andrew wants an independence of sorts as well from society's rules. Both wear their thoughts and feelings on their sleeve. Can they overcome what they believe is expected of them and follow their hearts?

The supporting cast entertains with smiles, exasperation, and concern.

The novel is sophisticated for romance readers with love scenes that are sensual, tasteful, and full of emotion. Lily and Andrew's story will resonate in the reader's heart long after they've closed the book.

Reviewed by: S. Burkhart

StephB is an author who likes to read many books and a variety of different genres. StephB is an author at http://www.Writing.Com/ which is a site for Creative Writing.

Book review for: "I my heart"

Book review for: "I my heart"
Posted by: Helen Scott Taylor
Self-published
Right on Amazon as Kindle ebook

5 Star

Tested by: S. Burkhart

"I my heart" is a heartwarming story about second chance. A baby in her arms is everything wants to make Kate Frost to avoid the press. Her friend from childhood, Andr? Le Court for help finds you. Car he left Kate into his world, or she will break his heart?

In modern England on the island of Jersey is a successful hotelier, Andre Le Court, have inherited two hotels by his grandfather. When he was sixteen, his father Kate sent him to boarding school and he contact with his childhood sweetheart, lost. Well, Kate from Andre doorstop comes with nowhere to go. After a disastrous relationship with a reality star, Kate needs some space to breathe. Andre takes she and her small daughter, Keiko, in his house, and immediately he helps her in dealing with the hordes of press that follow her.

How Andre for their guarantees, reignited old feelings and clash with modern challenges. Andre asks for Kate's help in the rebranding of the hotel. There they readily. Andre takes her shopping, so they have a modern, factual representation. Kate is a bit upset and left to wondering whether Andre accepts her as a woman what it now is. Andre is growing also a little frustrated with Kate and her reluctant to take responsibility for their actions. Both have deep feelings, they need to recognize and to reconcile.

If determined reporter, Jerry Markham, Kate's daughter the truth about it, the fragile trust between Andr? and Kate is tested. Can she embrace the future and the promise that it holds or keeps them apart last wounds?

Scott Taylor pens one delicious story full of feeling and longing. The plot is moving at a nice clip. The author of the writing style is crisp and easy to read. The descriptions are on spot, give just enough to the reader the setting allow image in their minds.

The most rewarding part of the story was the rich characterization. Andre and Kate explore their emotions in quiet reflective moments, as well as with each other. For every step forward is a step back, also.

Andre has learned, trust and how you see the world in a practical way. Kate believes in true to itself. These are the qualities which he can grow other. The supporting of cast well complements the main characters. I enjoyed the events to end result. It has a nice layer of tension, as the couple would solve their problems.

The story is "demanding" for Romance readers and has a love scene which captures the romantic longing and sensibility of the pair. "I my heart" is a heartwarming romantic getaway that let readers belief in second chance.

StephB is an author who like to read many books and a variety of different genres. StephB is an author at http://www.Writing.com / is a site for creative writing.