Reviews of all our books

“These two novellas hit me hard. They were very romantic and a joy to read. Now I can't wait to see what Ms. Wiesner comes up with next!”

Karen Wiesner's FIRST DRAFT OUTLINE is an excellent approach to helping writers jumpstart their projects. It's well-written and personable--never boring. Most importantly, this straight forward, step-by-step approach succeeds in motivating writers to delve into writing their novels with a cohesive system that takes into account each writer's unique voice.

This is not just some boring how-to book. Instead, Karen's book manages to excite writers by showing them they actually can do this! It guides writers through important facets that lay the groundwork for their novels.

From the initial brainstorming and sketching out of a story's characters and plots, the writer begins to see the overall structure of their novel suddenly start to take shape. Additional chapters focus on research and the creation of the outline that then becomes the infrastructure for the novel. Karen then guides writers through each specific stage of their novel's beginning, middle, and end storyline arcs.

She provides an intelligent approach to setting reasonable goals that can actually be met. FIRST DRAFT OUTLINE just what it says. It's an inspiring and motivating resource that will exceed the expectations of most writers who may be intimidated at the process or have stalled in their writing projects.

Novels are daunting, complicated, intimidating projects. FIRST DRAFT OUTLINE is a smart, sharp, tight step-by-step guide to outlining and wrapping our arms around the process. The guides, examples and worksheets give a writer no excuse to feel lost since Karen S. Wiesner holds your hand and leads you into the fear and out the other side with a solid first draft in hand. Remarkably sound textbook on how to get a novel out of your head and onto paper.

FIRST DRAFT OUTLINE by Karen S. Wiesner. Knowing nothing about the book except the summary on Amazon, I expected a book much in the same vein as Chris Baty's book. What a surprise upon reading Ms. Wiesner's book to find it was nothing at all like I was expecting, and a pleasant surprise at that. What I thought I was going to be reading would be an upbeat attempt to guide a budding writer into creating a plot from an idea and following a complete story arc--in a month. It's not really what I need, and it's not what Wiesner had to offer.

The 'first draft' referred to in the title of the book is not what I think of as a draft at all, but is instead a very thorough formatted outline, that while being created ends up generating a lot of documents to support the story. Wiesner's book turned out to be about workflow and creating a set of habits that will allow a writer to get from an idea in her head to a book in a very short amount of time.

Ms. Wiesner is a published author, though I've never read any of her books. But, the fact that she is an author is important in how she wrote this book. This was not an intellectual proposal for how someone should write a book, based upon potentially outlandish notions of the importance, and thus how long should be spent, various parts of the story. It's written matter-of-factly, with a 'this is what I do' attitude, that upon completion of the book makes it seem completely reasonable and more importantly something I am capable of doing.

Each of the chapters of the book is straight-forward--a boon in this type of book. We're given an introductory thought, an outline of the goal for specific days in the process, and then explanations of each part with examples from famous modern fiction, almost none of it her books, though apparently she has written quite a few. I take this for modesty as much as for the fact that this process is not terribly hard to reverse engineer for already written books, that were not only good enough to be published, but good enough to be famous--I may not have read half of them, but I had heard of all them.

Wiesner starts you off knowing that there are six parts to her program. It all sounds very rational and dare I say, doable. I quite liked how straight-forward and unmystical her writing was. I felt FIRST DRAFT OUTLINE was one writer talking to another, albeit an experienced, successful writer talking to someone yet to attain those goals. It's funny how sometimes in life you end up getting exactly what you need by accident. Just as I am getting ready to write a comprehensive outline for a writing project, I read a book that tells me how to do this.

I was fortunate to get to review Karen Wiesner's FIRST DRAFT OULINE before diving into COHESIVE STORY BUILDING. In this book on crafting a novel, Wiesner continues to carefully lead you through different layers of the process of writing—and finishing—a novel. Peeling back the layers, Wiesner helps you to set the stage for building a strong and cohesive story.

As she does in FIRST DRAFT OUTLINE, she provides real-life examples from drafts and published novels. Wiesner puts together a blueprint to follow that starts with setting forth and laying a strong foundation. She encourages brainstorming and then researching. Along the way, Wiesner gives writers the tools to understand how to write their stories. Her appendices include a glossary that helps to explain some of the elements of fiction writing. Wiesner also gives writers the easy-to-follow checklists and exercises to keep on track.

After laying the solid foundation, Wiesner spends two parts putting up the walls of your story. She helps to guide writers through evaluating their own stories, which is essential if you are going to make the story work. Then, thinking in layers, Wiesner suggests how to improve on the foundation and walls of your story. In the third part, Wiesner helps guide writers in the revision process—giving ideas on how to involve critique groups or partners—through to the final polishing. Want to sell the novel? Then Wiesner helps you put your proposal together. (I'm not there quite yet!)

Wiesner's style is approachable and friendly. Her advice seems to be vested in you developing the best novel you can. Her examples are contemporary and work to help demonstrate the concepts she's exploring. Her precision focus and guidance should easily help you get from your first draft to a completed novel. Her preparations helped me to look at my work more objectively. She's the writers' coach you wished lived next door to you.

Finally, a book that isn't just theory when it comes to writing a novel. Karen S. Wiesner takes your first draft and shows you how to mold it into a novel, to include query and synopsis stages. Half the book consists of an abundance of checklists, exercises and worksheets, making this book a hard-core practical, useful tool for the novelist.

COHESIVE STORY BUILDING is the best hands-on, common sense guidebook to getting a novel into the world that I've seen in years. No fluff...just how to make it happen.

COHESIVE STORY BUILDING by Karen Wiesner uses an interesting analogy for creating your novel. The idea of looking at your novel as building a house is different than anything I’ve read and a unique approach for the writer who likes a strict format. Ms. Wiesner’s approach is refreshing.

Each section is considered one layer of the process with four stages. There are lots of good ideas that can be used by anyone at any time during writing. There are also several appendices containing worksheets, exercises and examples of how to use everything.

I found her examples showing how other authors’ novels could be broken down in this format. Overall, a very helpful tool for a writer to have on their bookshelf or their e-reader.

Great for a first time writer. I have listened to webinars and bought books to be able to be sure I was doing things right. I wished I could get my time and money back and use just this one book.

A must have for the up and comers!

I am repurchasing... I bought this many many years ago when I was visiting WVU with my best friend because I had such a strong passion for writing. This book really takes you in depth and helps you to really map out each aspect of your story to make it the best possible version. Unfortunately somewhere in between my moves, I lost the original version when it was just “From First Draft to Finished Novel.” This book is worth every penny if you’re interested in making your stories the best.

Great for a first time writer. I have listened to webnars and bought books to be able to be sure I was doing things right. I wished I could get my time and money back and use just this one book

Psychological thriller to keep you reading on. One serial killer would make an interesting read, but two, and from the opposite sides of the world. Fascinating scenario with a doctor on a mad mission, from Australia, and a rejected lover in the USA. Intriguing from beginning to end.

Too violent and disturbing

Gruesome and Compelling - Highly recommended

Max Overton's graphic paranormal thriller, A Cry of Shadows, is one of those books that I loved, and was compelled to obsessively read late into the night, and devoured every word all the way to the last page, but at the same time I was sickened by it, as I am with any well-written violent thriller I read.

The queasiness I felt derived from the graphic nature of the multiple murders, each of which are presented in gruesome detail. I also found myself cringing at the insightful looks Overton gives his reader into the twisted minds of the book's two different killers--one driven by violent passions and the other by an ego that rationalizes murder as a disagreeable necessity. The reader gets to know these two villains better than any other characters in the story, and the author handles the changes in perspective flawlessly. This is quite a feat because one minute the reader is suffering in the perspective of a murder victim as she is killed, and the next minute we are riding away with the killer in his Camero, and the next minute we are in Australia visiting with the mad scientist again. I usually don't like books that shift perspective so quickly but this one I did. The author is clearly a master of his craft.

Overton's hero, an emotionally damaged and aging Illinois cop who likes driving fast in his Mini-Cooper, is suitably nuanced and intelligent for a lead detective in a police novel like this. We don't get to know Barnes as well as we do the novel's bad guys, but Barnes is likable enough and does his job well in spite of the usual bureaucratic pressures that weigh against him. Overton has certainly done his research into police procedures and forensics. His descriptive strengths and excellent research make this book even more realistic and enjoyable for those interested in police procedurals.

For those readers who just like a good story well told, you won't go wrong either with A Cry of Shadows. The book left me awed at the author's formidable powers of description and his ability to weave a straightforward, compelling narrative out of such a varied mix of completely different characters. I found myself as completely absorbed in one villain's world of Australian academia as I was in the other killer's job at Walmart. In the non-violent parts, I found myself often smiling at Overton's creative turns of phrase. My favorite was: "Is there any water, Bill? My throat feels like the bottom of a bird cage."

A fully enjoyable thriller for those who don't mind (or are interested in) real gritty violence, who enjoy scientifically-realistic paranormal plots, and who appreciate excellent writing. Highly recommended.

a strange and rare gem lost in the mine

This a good read and should not be neglected or overlooked. There are shades and echos of the movie Avatar (2009) in this tale well told on an intriguing premise. Faithful lines to expectation follow through, true, but then just when you think you've figured out the form of it all, it breaks off into another facet. There are a few rough edges here and there (an editor's eye would pick them out) but there are some good deliberations and musings (yes, there you go) on the nature of information, knowledge, and wisdom tied up into the hidden forces of human longing for relationship and meaning. Wondering if there is a sequel yet?

“

I freely chose to review this series and fell in love with the town and the people. I liked that Dr. Melina Rose decided to give up her sex therapist practice in New York to return to the last place she expected to return after she left seventeen years ago and severed ties with her dad except to yearly send a Christmas card. The series continues when her older sister seeks revenge for stealing her one time boyfriend, Scott Romero even though he dumped her and left town for a football career, but finally love comes to Lona, Melina's older sister when Reece Childs returns home and Lona realizes that her crush on him could start to bloom into something heavy and hot when she repented for for revenge on her little sister, and the book wraps up when single mom, Sheila Mason returns home with her son after a dreadful marriage and finds the flames never went out on the man she she should have married.
Readers should love some of these novellas and eagerly await book two!

Hotcha, Amazon ”

I freely chose to review this book as I can't get enough of the series! TIL SUMMER COMES AROUND, Book 5 of the Adventures in Amethyst Series, tells Quinn and Summer's story. I liked that Quinn would wait until Summer kept her promise to return to him even though it took four years, a devastating loss, the betrayal of her friend Apple, and the shocking dismissal of her marriage to Apple's brother.

Once Summer is cleared of the crime, her boss tells her to take time off to clear her head so she can take the New York bar exam to become a lawyer and fulfill her dream. Summer heads back to Amethyst, Wisconsin to keep her promise to Quinn but, not knowing what to expect, she's shocked he waited so long for her. She realizes she’s always loved him and, even though she has a dark secret about why she never called or returned to him, she feels she wasn't good enough to deserve Quinn's love.

I freely chose to review this book as I wanted to see what happens next. Have you ever wanted to smack the taste out of someone's mouth? Well, I did as I wanted to pounce on Reece and Angelina, and maybe a little lighter smack on Lona for being so stupid to hide her illness from the man she loves! Now you know a book is a good one when you start yelling at people who don't exist and I can't wait to read the next book!

I loved Briar and Roman's story. After years of waiting, I liked that Briar finally could think about herself now that her parents were deceased, and at the age of forty-seven this virgin wanted a baby as her biological clock was ticking! With few choices when it came to men in her tiny town, her only hope was to convince Roman that she wanted his baby.

I liked that Roman was an old-fashioned man who stood by his morals of right and wrong, even though he was a widower with a teenaged daughter he wanted to set a good example for. How can he convince Briar that she’d always been his first choice?

Thank goodness this author believes in happily-ever-afters.
FIVE STARS! Have tissues in hand because there is a lot of soul-searching and crying in this hard-core story that deals with drugs, alcohol, neglect, and betrayals. There are a few other things from Apple’s past coming back to haunt her that I do not mention. They add a bit more drama to the story. If you can put yourself in Apple’s shoes and honest feel her regret, you will tear up several times as the story flows around you.
Apple’s family and Bay’s family are polar opposites. Where Apple’s parents only used her, Bay’s family is close-knit, though temporarily in a sibling fight. When Bailey’s family gets together, you can feel the warmth and comradery.

Wiesner writes in a sneaky way. The emotions flowed through me with no waring, leaving me at the mercy of her imagination. Thank goodness she believes in happily-ever-afters.

“BLAME IT ON THE RAIN, Book 10 of the Adventures in Amethyst Series, is Tally Johnson’s story. With a very large family, she’s a lifer in the small resort town of Amethyst, WI. Tally has a long distance love affair with Adam Schaefer, an airline pilot who can only be there for a day or two before he has to return to his job.

His absence leaves her lonely, missing him, and wondering if their love is really meant to be. She waited patiently for years, watching every other couple get married and start a family. Often, she goes to best friend, Donnie, who will do anything for her.

Whenever Tally says she needs him, Donnie Garner drops everything for her. Tally is his best friend and he'd do anything to make her happy. BLAME IT ON THE RAIN is a feel-good story that left me wanting more and needing to know what happens next in Amethyst.”

In NEVER A BRIDE, Charlize Seagrave came from an anything-but-happy upbringing. The one bright spot had been her grandmother, who just died. In retrospect, she regrets that she didn’t cherish the little love she’d been given the way she should have.

It was easy to feel sympathy for Charlize and the poor choices she made when she was younger. Ben Johnson is a caring, sensitive man--nothing like Charlize’s psychotic ex-. Being that kind of person, he goes above and beyond with his selfish ex-girlfriend even when maybe he should have given up long ago.

Charlize and Ben both deserved happiness, and it was exciting to see the path they took toward each other and a happily-ever-after neither actually expected. I look forward to the next in the series.

Fantastic! Readers will instantly connect to Eden.
Trevor and Eden Johnson have been married for twenty years. They originally wed because Eden thought she was pregnant. Back then, while Trevor was in an exclusive relationship with Eden, he always lost all common sense and reason whenever the seductive Delaney Foster came around. He ended up cheating on Eden with Delaney.
Now, even though it has been over twenty years, Delaney has temporarily returned to Amethyst and is determined to seduce Trevor again. Trevor's reaction to Delaney does not seem to have changed either. Trevor's entire family is behind Eden and are going out of their way to ensure that Trevor does not succumb to temptation and ruin his marriage.

To add to the busy holiday stress, Eden discovers that their oldest son is sexually active, and he may be about to make the same mistake she and Trevor did so long ago.

FIVE STARS! I read "Never a Bride" (book #11), "Unlucky in Love" (book #12), and this novel back-to-back since they seem to be connected. Each story stands alone, so readers do not have to read them all to fully enjoy each. However, if you read all three, I believe you will feel more satisfied.
Of the three, this one is my favorite. The author manages to convey what each character is going through. The emotions really hit home to me. Many readers will feel an instant connection to Eden since she deals with battling her weight and low self-esteem. All of us have felt that way at some time or another in our lives. The author even shows how the actions of adults can affect the children.

This is a wonderful tale of love, uncertainty, remorse, and people striving to do better. Fantastic!

5 Stars! Packs an emotional wallop! I've never seen a writer more adept at capturing the emotional complexities of the human experience.

Her love stories are bold, fearless, and unforgettable. The world of women's fiction is a better place because Wiesner is in it. I loved FALLING STAR. Clear off some space on your keeper shelves.

5 Stars! This is certainly a different type of hero and heroine! I wondered how the author could get together a preacher and a stripper. Well, she succeeded! Rori may have started off her life badly, but she became someone that I proudly cheered on to victory. Brava, Karen Wiesner!

2000 EPIC AWARD Finalist 2000 Frankfurt Award Nominee 5 Hearts and Sweetheart Award Nominee! "I look for anything with Wiesner's name on it. And I was definitely not disappointed. This author has done what she does best: Write a heart-stopping book with a multi-dimensional plot.

Her characters are so complex. I had trouble putting the book down. A great start to what promises to be a fabulous series.

The heroine is far from perfect. She could be any one of us, or someone we know and care about, and that hits close to home. I understood what she felt, what she was going through, and hurt right along with her.

FALLING STAR was a very emotional, very real story. Be prepared to sit a spell. You won't be able to put this down.

FALLING STAR had some of the most complex, wonderful characters I've ever met. The plot Wiesner weaves is based on internal conflict. Personally, I like spice in my stories, but for a book with no actual culminated sex scenes in it, the sexual tension is very high. All in all, FALLING STAR is so well done I can heartily recommend it to all.

Packs an emotional wallop! I've never seen a writer more adept at capturing the emotional complexities of the human experience. Her love stories are bold, fearless, and unforgettable.

The world of women's fiction is a better place because Wiesner is in it. I loved FALLING STAR. Clear off some space on your keeper shelves.

2000 RT Book Reviews Reviewer's Choice Award Nominee, 4 1/2 Stars and Top Pick! "Though spicy, FALLING STAR is tastefully written and the Christianity real. The characters struggles offer hope to those of us who stumble along the path on life's journeys. A gem!

If you enjoy good quality reading with a great ending, wonderful characters who will pull you in and keep the pages turning, this is the book for you. FALLING STAR hit me unexpectedly. The characters were so well written it was hard to not imagine this being something that happened in real life that I was just watching as it unfolded. Wiesner is definitely on my keeper list.

FALLING STAR is a keeper for any bookshelf! When I started this novel, I expected to have trouble identifying with the heroine since she and I have nothing in common. I also thought I might have to work at feeling involved.

Nothing could be further from the truth. From the first page, I was interested and absorbed. I cared about the characters and I cried for them. I recommend this book to any lover of romance, and I won't hesitate to pick up the next Wiesner story I find.

5 Hearts and Sweetheart Award Nominee! Another classic Karen Wiesner. She took some vaguely-connected people from the same hometown and expanded on the series in a fabulous continuation.

You could read this book as a stand-alone, but why would you want to? The characters had multi-faceted personalities that gripped my interest and never lost their pull on my heartstrings. I didn't want to put the book down.

This book had emotional consequences and just expanded my interest in Wiesner. She completes her books so well she is definitely on my must-read list. The secondary characters were introduced to the readers so that I wanted to know them even better.

I couldn't help but love them. I highly recommend this book to everyone. The sensuality was slight and well-written.

This book is complex and, in my opinion, one of her best. Kudos, Karen!

5 Hearts and Sweetheart Award Nominee! I started this book with unease. I couldn't imagine how the author would capture my attention with a man who'd caused such sorrow in the previous books in the series, but in FOREVER MAN, she did what she does best--captured my attention and forced me to allow her to captivate me.

I couldn't put the story down. Wiesner definitely does not write cookie-cutter stories. This book was my favorite in the series, intense, emotional, and beautifully written.

The secondary characters, as well as outside forces that created the storyline, were effective in telling this dynamic story. The characters were obviously directly opposite in lifestyle and income. They dressed differently, reacted to others differently and yet they managed to grip my heartstrings.

The sexuality was emotionally gripping. I highly recommend this book, in addition to the others in this series. You won't be sorry to have read this book as well as the others.

5 Stars! Wow, this series is so good that I can't wait for the next! I loved that Mikey lost an incredible amount of weight and loved Diane Hoffman from afar.

As he came from a bad childhood, he’d never known what love was and thought he didn't deserve it. Mikey is quite shy and has no idea he’s a hunk, nor does he feel comfortable with attention. I'm glad he ran to the rescue every time Diane called.

I'm encouraged that Diane followed her boyfriend when he started acting suspiciously. She learns that, after ten years of being in with Robert Drake, he’s been living a double life. He’s married and has children; now she’s the OTHER woman!

For ten years, Robert has strung her along. Diane wanted nothing more than to be married and have children of her own. Now that would never happen.

Despite what she now knows he’s married, Robert wants to continue their affair. Diane realizes herself she’s weak-willed around him. Can Mikey help her find her strength?

5 Stars! Rox and Jamie grew up together, sharing a love of music. She fell for him despite that he’d followed in his father’s scoundrel footsteps, cheating on his wife and being unable to abide by anything that required a commitment from him.

Jamie genuinely loved Rox, despite his initial panic and stupidity when she tried to get him to admit it. How far he was willing to go to prove it to her, especially when she gets the most devastating news a person can get, made for an emotional read that almost broke my heart. Readers will want this couple to get the happily ever after they deserve as much as I did.

5 Stars! Take two broken and scarred people living with dark secrets before they find each other and learned how to trust and fall in love, and you have one hell of a story! Wiesner will make you weep and laugh with this very touching book that will claim your heart.

5 Stars! The only thing my mind will come up to say right now about this story is ‘Wow’. I just finished reading it, and I have such a wonderful sense of satisfaction. Wiesner’s dedication to writing heartwarming stories comes through loud and clear in this gem.

5 Stars! Oh man, do these books keep getting better and better! With each one, I have to remind myself these people aren’t real.

4 Stars! A captivating reading. Wiesner does a super job of making a book that is in a series very readable as a standalone story.

Her characters with all their flaws come alive and reach right in and touch the reader’s heart. As she weaves their backstories in, one’s heart grieves for the hurts they’ve suffered. Wiesner makes PROMISES IN THE DARK a memorable, vicarious experience.

IMMUTABLE, Book 1: Arrow of Time Chronicles by Karen Wiesner is one of the most unique, creative, and captivating stories I have read in a long time. I can't wait for Book 2. The galactic world she has created is so multilayered that I can easily visualize it as a series or movie.

The plot has ongoing surprising twists and turns that keep you guessing as a reader and startling you with new possibilities. At the heartbeat are the themes and characters struggling with good and evil, love and rejection, broken dreams and hope; ends, new beginnings, and the unfathomable unknown cloaked in extreme danger. Get ready to leave the earth we know behind and travel into a future expanse beyond our imagination.

Karen Wiesner has created an absolutely fascinating future with believable characters, interesting technology and a stunning plot. I can't even begin to imagine how much time it took to do all the research, build the world and flesh out these amazing characters. The author must have some kind of superbrain, but I've been suspecting that for quite a while.

As always, Karen Wiesner shows her wonderful talent for storytelling. I have never known her to write a (space) science fiction tale before; however, she has done a fantastic job on this one. Nothing seems forced or rushed. Everything is explained thoroughly as tensions slowly build. I was hooked from the beginning until the very end. I am especially intrigued by the Vreah species and hope to get a glimpse of their world someday.

As for how this story is written, it is told by following several main and secondary characters. Each chapter begins with the name of the character it will be following. This is a terrific beginning to a new, four-book series and I am looking forward to the next book that will be titled INEVITABLE.

This novel grabs you by the throat! While it's far from the first time Ms. Wiesner has switched genres, I was fascinated with the crew about the Aero seeking a home among the stars while Earth is healing. I liked that Raze and Tori had been friends all their lives and they couldn't imagine not being together.

I fell in love with the clumsy Astoria, who tripped over her own feet and injured herself almost on a daily basis, and how Raze loved her anyway, despite a distraction with the Vreah ambassador. The story is complicated by an alien race who wants to enslave everyone in the galaxy. Wow! Now I must read Book 2!

As usual, Karen Wiesner draws her readers right in and doesn't let go. I have no idea how she always manages to handle a complex plot and such a huge cast of characters. It's totally jaw-dropping!

I love the way the characters develop. All the descriptions are vivid, the interactions between the human and alien cultures are fascinating. This would make an amazing TV series because it has the right mix of suspense, romance and special effects. I for sure would binge-watch it!

4 ½ Stars!

Main and secondary characters return and are accompanied by new characters in this episode of the quartet. The author swept me away from real life into a new universe once again. I only came up for air once before diving headlong back into the Tori and Raze's chaos.

I suggest reading series in the order in which they came out. Otherwise the dealings with the Shojani will not make much sense. This story is not full of battles and violence. Instead, it is filled with diplomacy, meeting new and interesting species/cultures, and even a bit of romance.

I found it nice to actually go to one or two of the alien planets and view their colorful worlds and customs. I have personally been in contact with the author to ask about the length of this series and have been told that there will be four books total.

Fantasy readers won't want to miss this! “THE TRISKELION is a powerful start to the Guardians of Glede: Beginnings series with a host of interesting, well-defined characters, intriguing settings, and an epic quest. One of the things I liked best was how the author didn't paint in too broad of strokes, particularly in this--its beginning.

Fantasy novels (especially those in a long-running series, as this one is) tend to have an overwhelming amount of characters, settings and subplots that seem to be thrust upon the reader within the first few pages of Book 1. In this book, we're given a manageable number of each, introduced just when needed, yet the scope of each is large and evolving enough to sustain the series arc that readers are being led into with this initial offering.

Fantasy readers won't want to miss this entire series, and the spin-off Next Generation.

Great adventure in a rich setting

JennaKay Francis weaves a magical tale in a rich world that grabs you from the getgo! Our 14 year old elf hero is much like any human teen, filled with angst and adventure. Great start to a marvelous series!

FIVE STARS! This author has written many stories, in multiple genres, but I feel that THIS type of story fits her best. It has the flavor of an old Gothic Romance (of which the few I still hoard will never be tossed out) yet it can still be classified as a Christian Romance.

The characters are well developed. They never felt flat or two dimensional. The female is frightened, naïve, untrusting, and often compared to a fairy or sprite.

The male has made mistakes in his past and tries to keep an open mind – be it about the living or the dead. If this is a taste of what the rest of the series will be like, then I refuse to wait a second longer to begin book two.

FIVE STARS! There are so many of us out there that recall those old Gothic Romances with great fondness. Those romances had a bit of the supernatural within them and, in rare cases, not all of them had a perfect ending.

But that is what kept me guessing back then. Would there be a perfect and happy ending or would it end with a bit of creepiness? In the not so distant past, Gothic Romances came back but always had a happy ending with all loose ends tied up.

Again, so many of us loved them and yet the Gothic Romance would disappear for several years, reappear a bit different, disappear, reappear a bit different, and so on. Well I am thrilled to say that the Gothic Romance seems to be coming back again thanks to Karen Wiesner. (Woo-Hoo!) So I bet you are wondering what the “a bit different” is this time. Karen Wiesner includes a bit of the modern time.

The story has the same spine chilling creepiness, but is set in the present time and includes modern troubles. This tale involves a couple who has undergone a recent, personal tragedy which is compounded by Cain’s parents’ ethics. (They care about Cain being hurt by Amberlyn, just as the two ladies before her did.) The pair have not been married long, a couple of years, and Cain is adrift, unable to realize how much his distraught wife needs him. Karen Wiesner’s writing style is easy to read and understand.

She creates well developed characters and gives each their own personality. I have read many of her books in the past – she has written in various genres – but I believe the Gothic Romances are her best ever. Highly recommended to one and all.

FIVE STARS! This story is simply more proof that Karen Wiesner was born to write Gothic Romances. The author writes good romances, but her dark Gothic-flavored stories are the absolute best!

With a town such as Bloodmoon Cove, she certainly has a lot of potential tales to dive into. Personally, I hope to learn more about the people that live in this secluded town and their ghosts. Author Karen Wiesner's Gothic Romance give readers chills while delivering happily-ever-afters.

FOUR STARS! This installment of the Bloodmoon Cove Spirits Series will send shivers down your spine. I read the entire thing in one afternoon – during a thunderstorm that seemed to make the story even creepier.

It broke my heart to think of the years these two main characters could have been happily together, but at least they are now. Various characters from the previous titles of the series play secondary roles. It was refreshing to see them again as they helped this couple with Dominic. Karen Wiesner writes stories that readers will always remember fondly.

FOUR & AND HALF STARS! The wonderful thing about this series is that each story can stand alone. You do not need to read any of the previous titles to enjoy this chilling tale.

It starts out slowly, so readers can be introduced to the main and secondary characters. But after the first chapter, things take off at a sprint and they never really slow back down. The characters are well developed, believable, and not idiots as many in supernatural romances or movies are.

If the situation looks too dangerous, alternatives are discussed. Of course, thanks to the imp that must rest on this author's shoulder, it does not matter. Something will force them to make a move and pray for the best. I loved every second of this spooky tale.

5 Stars! To say that I enjoyed this eerie story would be a huge understatement. Wiesner managed to send a chill up my spine not once, but twice. That does not happen often. It is testament to how potent the poison is on the tip of her pen. Hey, Writers Exchange, publish this series faster!

5 Stars! What a spooky novel. I just loved it! My heart went out to the little girl who eventually named herself Ice. I could see Bennet’s love for her even from the start. This story had me fretting from moment to moment about what would happen. I can hardly wait to read the next in the series!

5 Stars! HELL HATH NO FURY, the 10th book in Bloodmoon Cove Spirits Series, was so scary! Even so, I couldn’t stop reading.

Bella and Marsh were easy to love, though Ori was a bit free-spirited. After Bella’s mom’s death, the three friends find out Bella’s inherited a house that’s perfect for the shop they want to open together. The legacy is just too good to pass up, even if this inheritance comes with the stipulation not to live in or sell the house.

When good sense goes right out the window, bad things happen. This story had me on pins and needles because true evil lived in that creepy house. Talk about not being able to put a book down! I can’t wait to find out what happens next in this series

BAD BLOOD weaves together people and episodes from previous novels in the series to create a satisfying culmination for the Bloodmoon Cove story cycle. Sympathetic protagonists and secondary characters face dire threats in a conflict whose outcome will change the town and the tribe forever, whether for better or worse. The overarching series theme of the past elders’ disastrous rupture of a portal between this world and the spirit realm at last reaches its resolution.

The climactic battle is entirely worth the wait. Especially effective is the way the author blends mundane, wholly realistic problems and tensions with mythic motifs. This is a can’t-miss experience, as readers will rejoice in witnessing some characters attain well-deserved happiness.

Writer Wendy Laing has taken an actual lighthouse where she has been a guest at the lighthouse keeper's cottage: The Cape Otway in Victoria, Australia as the starting point for her nicely wrought tale, and she has woven an entertaining book of eight chapters for early readers. Through the magic of a time tunnel children Aaron and Gracie Brandon are taken to a long ago time where they meet a marvelous old Scottish sea captain's ghost. The pair had been less than enthralled while vacationing with their parents to discover the old lighthouse where they are staying has no video games or anything else interesting for them to do. And, then they meet Captain Angus! When they do everything changes. Cap'n Angus takes the pair on virtual reality trips sailing on masted ships, with opportunity for meeting one of their ancestors along with watching a sea rescue and other adventures.

Wendy Laing has done it again! This talented writer continues to produce excellently written, well researched materials sure to be used in the classroom and for home reading alike. Captain Angus, the Lighthouse Ghost is an inviting venture for children sure to keep youngsters entertained as they travel through the interactive links allowing them to make a voyage through the internet.

Writer Laing really understands how to make history come alive for young readers. Children will make stops at sites where they can tour old ships, discover lighthouses and learn a little about them in the process. Young readers are sure to enjoy following the links and learning a little of history without their realizing they are doing so. Captain Angus, the Light House Ghost is a delightful guide children are sure to like. The Links to sites will pique their curiosity.

Chapter titles include: Cap'n Angus, Spirits and Ghosts, Land Ahoy!, Rescue!, The Tower, Ship Ahoy!, Aurora's Spirit, A Light in the Future and The Beacon of Hope.

Captain Angus, the Light House Ghost is a read to book for the younger set. As such it provides a marvelous opportunity for quality parent child time as they sit together at the computer reading and traveling the links to various sites. Older children will enjoy reading and manipulating the work themselves.

The only thing I find lacking from a teacher standpoint, and in no way detracts from the delightful tale itself: I like to see a target audience noted and the word/vocabulary list at the end of the books I use in the classroom when possible. These just make it easier for teachers, and parent home teachers too to quickly decide if this book will fit into our particular teaching need at the moment.

Combining Mystery & History with Adventure

Aaron and Gracie didn't want to spend their summer vacation at the Cape Lighthouse station, but their parents insisted this was where the family would vacation this year. They were sure it was going to be a long, boring summer. There was nothing to do!

They set off to explore the area on their first day of vacation and found a tiny, old cemetery near the lighthouse. It was eerie and creepy and it made them feel sad. But only for a moment. Then sadness turned to fear when they were startled by a deep voice behind them. The children spun around to find themselves face to face with a tall stranger in sailor's uniform and a sea captain's hat. They were very nearly scared speechless.

When the stranger talks to them, seeming to read their thoughts before they even speak them out loud, they soon realize they are looking at a ghost! Captain Angus turns out to be a friendly ghost, and once they get past their fright, the children quickly become friends with the spirit who lives in the lighthouse.

The kids don't know it, but this lighthouse ghost has a special mission, and he wants the children to help him fulfill it. So begins a story of mystery and history in an enchanting ghost story filled with fantasy and adventures

These five fabulous Triple Aces Ranch romances contain strong protagonists struggling with issues while falling in love. Karen--the wonderful writing wizard--Wiesner provides her fans with a terrific Texas anthology.

Wiesner packs each book in this series with characters who share intense and strained relationships--a variable that makes their romance stories that much sweeter in the end. This collection is great for whiling away a relaxing weekend.

I'm still bawling after reading this collection. The author has brilliantly made us face the heart-breaking and bitter truths of life. A must read. Just be prepared to have your heart broken.

The Cowboy Fever Series is a complete collection of stories suited for everyone. They will break your heart, make you fall in love, cry and laugh. These are not light-hearted reads. They may evoke deep-down hidden emotions. Still, you should read them at least once. You won't regret it.

Each of these gems is a quick, satisfying read and Wiesner keeps things interesting by varying the plots and character motivations while building a community of memorable heroes and heroines that pop up in each other's stories. This series is a fine way to get your western romance on.

Wings of Love" {Cowboy Fever Series, Book 1} 5 Stars! "Wiesner has written this story in such a way that I sympathize with both of main characters' plights. If this is a taste of what's to come, than I look forward to the rest of the stories in this series. I'm left with a warm feeling and the belief that miracles are possible.

Wings of Love is a heartwarming holiday story with an incredibly sweet ending that will leave readers eagerly anticipating the next installment in the series.

A quaint romantic Christmas story all about miracles. I thoroughly enjoyed it. I was rooting for the guy to get his girl.

The journey Amanda and Wings take comes through well. I felt their conflicting emotions and confusion on how to interpret each other. I was surprised I got to know the main characters so well and got as invested as I did in the outcome for the length of the story. I recommend this to anyone of all ages who like cowboys and sweet love.

Losses and Gains" {Cowboy Fever Series, Book 2} "I really enjoyed this novella. A few of the characters are misunderstood, and their dramas were each played out with interesting storytelling.

This is so much more than a romance novella. I was immediately drawn into the story and into the characters' lives! The relationships, interactions and conversations between the characters are well-written and credible. This is a great, quick read that will keep you turning the pages and enjoying life on the ranch!

As the story unfolds, it hooks you in and makes you continue reading and feeling the characters' pain.

For Always" {Cowboy Fever Series, Book 3} Reviewer's Top Pick and 5 Stars! "For Always is filled with characters who will tug at your heartstrings and have you cheering them on to finding happiness. It was so easy to get pulled into their lives! Wiesner's style of writing is so easy to read and time flies as you become immersed in the story.

4 ½ Stars! "The cast of characters were well rounded and likeable. Wiesner does a great job with her prose and descriptions, and she made it all believable for me. I give For Always 4.5 Lost, Lonely, Deceptive, Life Changing, Romantically Longing Stars!

Taming April" {Cowboy Fever Series, Book 4} Reviewer's Favorite and 5 Stars! "The development of the characters came naturally with so many twists and turns. I loved this romantic, humorous novella. Wiesner makes it very enjoyable for the reader.

The first part of the novella tore my heart out. I felt so many mixed emotions. This was a very quick read that will leave you smiling. I give Taming April 5 Emotionally Charged, Hot Cowboy, Fun Filled Stars!

The Only One" {Cowboy Fever Series, Book 5} Reviewer's Favorite and 5 Heartfelt, Emotionally Charged, Second Chance Love Stars! "Wiesner does a wonderful job making the reader connect with the devastation, torment, heart-wrenching sadness that encompasses these two characters. The reader is a part of the story in every way. Don't miss out on this wonderful series. A definite must for you TBR!

There's no doubt Wiesner has mastered the art of storytelling. The Only One is a love story told in a gripping way. I got carried away because of the vivid depiction of the character's emotions. This is just the stuff that romance stories are made of.

Top Reviews I give this novel ****1/2 out of five stars.

A funny thing happened to me while I was reading Ghost of a Chance by Dee Lloyd. You see, I don't read romance novels--it's not that I don't respect them, and it's not that I don't know that it has been, and remains, one of the most popular fiction genres out there--it's just that I never got around to reading one. What I know of romance came pretty much from the front covers of the "bodice rippers" my mother used to read back when I was a kid which showed well-endowed young women swooning into the arms of tall muscular heroes whose most endearing quality appeared to be their dental work. That, for me, was romance. Boy, did I ever have it wrong.

Milly's twin sister Yvette has been missing for some time when the novel opens, and Milly has been haunted by nightmares in which she relives what she believes to be Yvette's brutal murder. Enter Bret, a man with a mysterious past relating to secret government work now working as an investigator, who has an encounter with a ghostly apparition on a lonely stretch of Florida road –Yvette--who manages to get out two words, "Warn them" before she disappears. Bret and Milly meet, and together work to find out what happened to Yvette, and find her killer--if, indeed, there is one.

While Ms. Lloyd and her publisher have chosen to call Ghost of a Chance "romantic suspense", they could have just as easily--and accurately--called the novel a mystery/thriller. Yes, there is a love story here--but it progresses naturally from the events surrounding Milly and Bret. Ms. Lloyd deftly relates their growing passion while at the same time never letting either of them--or the reader--forget that there is a murderer out there, and that they have to find him/her. Plot twists abound, danger lurks around every corner and--from a strictly mystery point of view--there is no cheating here. This is a very complex story, and yet the reader never finds themselves lost or confused. We find out the truth when Milly and Bart do and, when we do, we wonder how we could have missed it.

Where Ms. Lloyd truly excels, however, is in the development and presentation of her characters. Writing with what I can only call an elegant brevity, Ms. Lloyd develops her characters naturally throughout the course of the novel, as opposed to giving the reader a laundry list of attributes right at the start. The characters in this novel are complex, multi-dimensional people, and the reader is allowed to get to know--and care--about them gradually. Even the secondary and minor characters are exquisitely drawn and very memorable--an absolute must in a story this complex. There are no stereotypical "women who always need rescuing" or "men who have all the answers--and a great set of pecs besides" here. Ghost of a Chance is peopled with capable, intelligent characters that the reader is glad to have gotten to know by the story's end.

And so yes, a funny thing happened to me while I was reading Ghost of a Chance by Dee Lloyd. After years of assuming that any novel with the word "romance" attached to it couldn't possibly appeal to me, I found myself riveted and engrossed in a prime example of what had been, for me, a totally alien and dreaded genre. Ghost of a Chance is, quite simply, a great read and I would highly recommend it to anyone who likes quality fiction--regardless of genre-bias.

"Dee Lloyd's 'Ghost of a Chance' is a tale so well written the reader is swept into a maelstrom of paranormal activity, mystery and murder from the first page. Thoroughly developed characters bring intense emotion into play and allow the author to explore the unique relationship and spiritual/emotional bond between twins. An exciting and sometimes hair-raising read, 'Ghost of a Chance' is a definite keeper… just don't read it on any dark and stormy nights or you may never listen to a saxophone again..."

5 Stars! Author Karen Wiesner writes stories that will not only entertain fans of mystery and romance, but also warm their hearts with Christian faith. Readers will not find any hot, steamy bedroom scenes to fill pages (which often entice readers to skim or skip pages).

Instead, this story will test your wits, give you a beautiful romance that is blind to skin color, and leave you with a deep feeling of satisfaction. Totally fascinating and very inspirational.

“ Souls on (B)Oring Street on a tender love story that filled my soul with goodness and love!”

Amazon Customer ”

“ I love this whole series. Karen Wiesner is a fantastic author. I will read more of her books.

Hotcha, Amazon Customer ”

Unique Fantasy
Most first fantasy novels are fairly predictable. The protagonist is either a good guy or a rogue forced into playing the good guy. This novel is a pleasant surprise.

Candale is a bit of a spoiled brat with unpredictable, and usually self-centered, moods that seem to work against him most of the time. This dubious hero is forced by prophesy into a role he is ill-equipped to serve. I found myself fascinated by his plight, his need for the support he constantly rejects, and his drive to find out what his destiny has forced him to face.

This is a great start to a multi-volume tale. I look forward to seeing how the author resolves the challenges set before this reluctant hero.

I love it.
This book is absolutely excellent and could not put down. I just loved it and got second one. Would highly recommend it.

5 Beacons! With the story Bugs, the tiny hairs on the back of my neck stood at attention. The ending in Broken Wings is so twisted, I had to do a double take on it…wow!

Intense. Obsessions will have your adrenaline racing as Pete scurries through every obstacle in his path. Blind Revenge had me tossing in the covers and at times still feeling for my eyes.

After reading Fixated: Okay, for sure, anyone in a chat room even briefly should be extra careful. In this anthology, there are five stories that will quench the thirstiest mystery readers. The whole series surrounding Detectives Pete and Danny are fascinating; not to mention fast-paced and loaded in emotion that will have you spellbound.

Wiesner and Spindler take a story and turn it into a piece of art. Their suspense chillers are so cleverly dazzling that it leaves the reader eagerly anticipating the next installment. Their writing is so driven that it leaves the reader with the story still refreshed in their mind days later.

This is a collection of stories that readers should not miss. The plots are so well developed with enormous twists and turns that leaves the reader rapidly turning pages to the end. Once you read one of Wiesner and Spindler’s books, you just can’t stop!

5 Stars! I truly felt bad for Detective Pete Shasta in Murder on the Heartstrings when his plan to take his wife on a romantic trip is thwarted. This story was a real head scratcher.

In Flashback, Detective Danny Vincent always gets the creepy cases whenever his partner is away. Just like Danny is, I found the quirky circumstances unsettling. As I read, I constantly had to look over my shoulder.

This story really creeped me out! In Double Take, Victor Brooks, the owner of Brook's Gallery is married to Risa Nitzberg from Fixated in Falcon's Bend Case Files, Volume I. I loved how Pete and Danny used their abilities to solve this mystery. In Retribution, both Lisa and Melody aren’t too happy that their husbands Pete and Danny spending so much time in the backyard watching their neighbor strut around in a tiny bikini.

With Melody now pregnant, my heart ached for Lisa, who can’t have children of her own. Lisa caught the sleuthing bug in Murder on the Heartstrings, and it was interesting (scary for Pete) to watch her solve this. In Up in Smoke, Pete wants to find the perfect Christmas gift for his wife.

I understood how hard it was for him, knowing Lisa was ready to start a family together by adopting, but he came from a dysfunctional family. He’s not sure if he’s emotionally up to the task of fatherhood. This mystery was so funny, I laughed myself silly while Pete rooted out the criminal who set fire to the only Christmas tree farm in Falcon's Bend!

In Ghost of the Past, a story unfolds and Amber solves this 16-year-old mystery, leaving the reader feeling sad and shocked. All these stories make me hunger to read the next in the series and find out if Danny gets any more weird cases!

4 Stars! You do not have to be familiar with the series or the characters to love these tales of crimes and adventures. Each novella picks up where the previous leaves off, but the characters change.

This makes the novel a more interesting read for me. First Sight: Though Warren and Amber are responding officers, Chad is the real hero. I am amazed how the authors were able to give the characters developed backgrounds even though the story is novella in size.

Super job. Identity: Warren and Amber from the previous novella are mentioned but take a backseat as the story focuses on the Shasta family. Pete may be a cop, as was his father, but his sister Crystal was the opposite.

Having served her time, the authors brought the siblings together. Watching this family's drama play out was considerably interesting to me. Cupid's Romance: Characters from the two previous novellas in this novel are mentioned but only in passing.

The authors insert an interest twist toward the end to make the story even more intriguing. Out of Mind: For those who do not know, anterograde amnesia means the person goes to sleep and forgets everyone and everything that happened to her since the trauma or event. Molly is twenty years old and wakes up believing she is five.

The story is very well told. Time is also spent with Amber and her husband, whose lives together becomes more developed. Lonely Hearts: This novella is told from the viewpoint of several characters, mainly Shelley and Lisa's.

All the characters from the former novellas are preparing for a busy holiday and, feeling as though I know them personally by now, it is fun to watch the group as they begin to gather. Shelley and Ariel have been in previous novels, but if you have not read any of the previous titles, you will still be able to fully enjoy this story of fraud and murder. Assassin: This novella, in my humble opinion, should have been a full-sized novel.

5 Beacons! A masterpiece with twists and turns and a suspenseful touch of erotic pleasure, and romance with just the right blending of intriguing characters to make this story excellent beyond words. It is so compelling that it sticks with you like glue even days later.

Pete and Vincent dive into a whodunit with a good solid plot and so much fascination that not only will the story have the detectives guessing this incredible mystery; the readers will be equally amazed and surprised! A great colorful cast of characters that interweave to create a well-crafted brilliant story. I loved the way the authors gave Pete and Danny a life.

The two authors have thought of everything to keep the reader hypnotized. I absolutely love their style of writing. Authors Karen and Chris have devised an exciting story that has a consistent smooth flow with the dialogue and scenes.

They have penned a book that keeps you glued to your seat. It is sensual and full of great creativity. Their writing is impeccable and extraordinary and this book truly delivers and excels!! Keep writing because you both are truly talented beyond words.

5 Stars and Reviewer's Top Pick! Authors Wiesner and Spindler really gain their stride in the pacing and momentum of TEARS ON STONE. There are no throw-away characters.

I found this book to be a tantalizing read, a page-turner that kept me up all night. You’ll want to read it yourself to find out if it has the same dangerous effect on you.

5 Pixies! In THE FIFTEENTH LETTER, it all rings true. I appreciate the characters interactions, not only at work but in their personal lives as well.

The mystery/crime is excellent. Toward the end of the book, I found myself leaning into my screen and so tense my neck hurt. That's how intense the action got. If you're a fan of Shannon, McBain or just excellently executed procedurals, I highly recommend this one.

5 Hearts and Sweetheart Award Winner! Wiesner and Spindler have again combined to give us a romantic thriller full of action and the type of relationship building that makes this such an addictive series. The people on the police force in this small town seem to grow on me more and more.

The authors weave the story in such a way that it keeps me on the edge of my seat guessing and searching for clues with the law officers. One of the many strengths in this series is the seeming reality of the relationships, dialogue, and characters. I highly recommend this series for any lovers of great romantic suspense.

5 Stars! I like that AS PATIENT AS DEATH contains more of the Falcon's Bend residents' lives. Investigative partners at the Falcon's Bend Police Department, Pete and Danny have a lot going on in their personal lives.

Danny's having a hard time with his marriage. Pete and Lisa's family is growing, and I was so proud of Pete for agreeing to adopt despite his own emotional issues stemming from his upbringing on the subject of family. His wife Lisa caught the amateur sleuth bug in previous books in the series and now her obsession with their suspicious new neighbor is causing problems none of them could have imagined.

My fear for her inadvisable snooping made me wonder how this could possibly end well. Thankfully, there's never a dull moment in Falcon's Bend these days. I can't wait to read the last few books in the series, but hopefully Lisa loses her interest in detective work after this traumatic experience!

5 Stars! There is never a dull moment in this mystery drama (and romance). As I read, my rainy afternoon seemed to fly by. Wiesner and Spindler packs a lot in each Falcon’s Bend novel. I cannot recommend this story highly enough.

5 Stars! As suspicions abound and too many suspects are in question, I found myself without a clue who the murderer was. This book rocked me with the emotions pulling at me from all the characters’ situations even as the mystery scared me into nail-biting reading.

Well worth a read After a rather slow start, the book got better and better. I will definitely look out for the next in the series.

Problems with the copy-editing prevent me giving 5 stars. There were random question marks in little boxes scattered throughout the ebook text, which I found distracting. Also felt it got a little bogged down when the same event was told from different character's viewpoints. This felt unnecessarily repetitive, and could have been shortened. Not to be faulted on characterisation and research into the period

Reviewed By: Amazon Customer

The lead up to the end of a dynamic dynasty I loved reading this book especially about the legendary Ramesses 11. After such a long reign to read about how the family fell about trying to take power and control and you are almost sitting on the edge of the chair wondering what's going to happen next.

Reviewed By: dee43

Brilliant story for enthusiasts of the Ramisside era. A great story by a superb story teller whose books I always enjoy and admire for the depth of his research. Once again he has made history come alive. Can't wait to begin the next volume which I bought today!

Reviewed By: Vic H.

Relaxation reading Excellent reading next one please

Reviewed By: Amazon Customer

Five Stars if the rest of the series is as good looking forward to them.

Reviewed By: dennis cass

Five Stars Really enjoyed book one and into book 2 now. Anxious to know what happens to Seti.

Reviewed By: helen burns

Brilliant!! Great read.

Reviewed By: kathleen taynton

Five Stars Excellent!

Reviewed By: Andrew Findlay

Five Stars BRILLIANT

Reviewed By: Horsford

Four Stars Looking forward to the next instalment

Reviewed By: Steven Legg

Tausret, Messuwy, Seti, Merenptah, and a neutral narrator tell us . . . . . . this story, alternating their perspectives on events during the 18th dynasty of ancient Egypt. It's always the question of the succession, right?

And here Merenptah succeeds to the through as an old man already, following the death of his 90-year-old father, Usermaatre. Then eldest surviving son Messuwy expects to be named heir, but isn't. A promise Merenptah made years before to his father makes 10-year-old Seti most likely to succeed. But King Merenptah makes no announcement, even after son Seti grows up.

And following all these developments is the young woman prodigy Tausret, half-sister to Seti. Tausret is level-headed, aspiring, and worthy, saving Egypt (Kemet) from an invasion and a plot to kill both King and favored son.

Overton's books are always interesting, full of colorful characters, intrigues, wonderful heroines, realistic settings, and captivating plots. No exception here, and I think I'll stop here and go download the next two books in the series, centering in turn on Seti and then Tausret.

Reviewed By: pjburn

Great writing as well told Ancient Egyptian historical fiction comes to life as the court characters endure life and death. The intrigue and twists and turns unfold in this tale. Enjoyable reading experience.

Reviewed By: Frogee Gibson

HOOKED ON OVERTON'S EGYPT I have become addicted to the stories by Max Overton. I have been to Egypt touring most of the places he writes about and he "peoples" the locations and time periods in a very plausible way.

Reviewed By: DAVE MASTERS

Five Stars Exceptionally well researched. Each historical personality comes vibrantly alive. A superb and thoroughly exciting rendering of this Egyptian dynasty

Reviewed By: Amazon Customer

Ok book

Reviewed By: Rebecca LeClair

Foolish, foolish, Tausret! What a foolish woman, Tausret turned out to be! All of her decisions were so without forethought or reason. She was always influenced by her emotions, not be any cleverness on her part. She seemed stupid, actually.

I loved all three of these books by Max Overton. Mr. Overton, can you please write some more books about the new Ramesses dynasty? I know that my fellow readers will be as anxious as I am to read about the next generations of pharaohs.

Reviewed By: Christine Schulz

Another fantastic series! Just wanted to let the author know that I loved this whole series! And I was particularly glad to see a certain character get what he deserved :)

Reviewed By: SignoftheTimes

Max writes a story which is hard to distinguish from historical fact, although he has virtually none to base it on! I can read his books over and over and I did just that with book 2!

Reviewed By: James Ashton

Another fantastic series by Max Overton Fantastic series. Max Overton is a wonderful author.

Reviewed By: Tammarah

Fabulous Ending Book three of this series is as captivating as the first two. I am sad to see the series end but I know Max will enthrall his readers again with something new and wonderful.

As a wanna be Egyptologist and frequent traveler to Egypt this book series gives me more insight to the family of perhaps the most famous pharaoh in Egyptian history, Ramses II. Where some of the facts have been lost or still remain hidden in the sands of Egypt Max fills in with thought provoking possibilities.

Do not miss this final chapter in Ramses II family history. If you have not already done so, start with book 1 and be prepared to want to go from one book to the other until the end.

Reviewed By: Sara Jane Sesay

5 Stars Robert is from the old school, believing that Christian wives should take care of their homes and families, not having jobs outside the home. He grew up being taught that it's the man who's responsible for providing for his family financially. His wife Tamara held fast to her faith in God always making a way for them.

While her marriage had weathered many storms, Robert seems to feel threatened and like a lesser man by her independence. To be fair, Robert had grown up in a family with an extremely controlling father who was a million times worse than Robert could ever be. I loved that Tamara was so giving and listened to her family and her neighbor with an understanding heart.

Ultimately, Robert is a good man who cares about his wife and children. The issues he has are about his own worth and value as a husband and provider. Baby, Baby should be required reading for backwards men who need a lesson how good women are at multitasking!

Believable and Emotionally Engaging Story of Growth Within a Marriage

I enjoyed BABY, BABY very much and loved the way the ending worked out. Robert's wrongheaded attitude is quite believable once we know about his father's bad example, and his coming to terms with the new knowledge about his parents' relationship makes Robert's change of heart credible. I felt sorry for him and even sympathetic to him despite being thoroughly exasperated by him, too. Naturally, my main sympathy was with Tamara.

Peaceful, WI

Tamara Wolfe is Thirty-Seven years old. Her life has been filled to capacity since she married her high school sweetheart, Robert, right out of high school and having several children. Now that her last child is in preschool, Tamara makes the decision of taking her long time love of creating designer baskets and to turning it into a business. What she doesn’t expect is for Robert to be against it so she seeks wisdom by praying. She just wants a small space of time for herself and that has her questioning if she is actually being selfish. She also wonders if it is actually God is leading her in that direction or is He leading her to continue being the outdated model of a wife of being submissive but not equal.

This is an interesting story that shows how faith can lead the faithful. For those that enjoy inspirational stories they will greatly enjoy this one. The reader is taken on a journey as Robert and Tamara find their way though Tamara’s decision of having her business and what it means for them together. It is interesting to see how they grow through the story. The characters are complex and well written and move the story along very well. For readers that enjoy this genre this is definitely a series to check out.

Baby, Baby by Karen Wiesner is a story about a family’s struggle when the wife realizes she can make money from something she’s done in the past as gifts of love. The main characters, Tamara and Robert, have realistic problems that many married couples face. As they struggle with what is the right thing to do in their lives, Robert and Tamara never forget their love for each other.

Their prayers are poignant and revealing. I think Wiesner did an outstanding job of portraying a wonderful role in Tamara as a strong woman with wanting to please God and to keep her family intact. I highly recommend this inspirational romance, Baby, Baby. I look forward to reading more books by Karen Wiesner.

An Outstanding & Enjoyable Story!

Karen Wiesner's book, SHADOW BOXING, treats readers to a beautiful love story that speaks to the heart. From the first page I was captivated by the characters Justine and Joshua Samuels. I enjoyed reading this second book in the Family Heirlooms Series. I felt so invested in both characters, Justine and Joshua, that I wanted to reach out to them and offer them advice with their struggles in their marriage. Wiesner pulled me into the thoughts of her characters by giving more depth to their big worries and concerns about their married life together. Wiesner includes quotes about love at the beginning of each chapter which I also enjoyed.

Vashti, the teenage daughter of Justine and Joshua, is an important part of the story because she forces her parents to deal with their problems by giving them a mission trip to Mexico for their anniversary gift. Vashti fears that her parents will divorce when she goes off to college and they become empty nesters. She keeps her parents focused by a unique approach while they are all three in Mexico.

I highly recommend SHADOW BOXING by Karen Wiesner and it's a relevant Christian book that makes an emotional impact about love that you won't forget. If you haven't read Book One in the series, that's no problem because this can be read as a stand alone.

“

CONTINUE FAMILY HEIRLOOMS SERIES!

FOOLISH GAMES by Karen Wiesner is book #3 of the "Family Heirlooms Series" of the Inspirational romance,but can be read as a stand alone,with re-appearing characters from the other two books. See,"Baby,Baby",and "Shadow Boxing". What a wonderful Christian Kimberly was. How she tried to keep everyone together,and how God gave her such a good husband. It would be great if everyone could have as much God in them as Kimberly. A great story! Received for an honest review from the author.
HEAT RATING: SWEET

DorothyA, My Book Addiction and More, amazon review ”

A young Christian woman struggles with seeking pardon from those she's hurt when she can't seem to get past her own inability to forgive those who have wronged her.

Three years ago, Samantha Samuels had suffered under the violent hands of Ryder Feldmann, a juvenile delinquent her pastor father had been counseling. Now she's completed her psychiatry training and plans to help other victims of violent crimes at the rape counseling clinic in her hometown of Peaceful, Wisconsin. Unexpectedly, she finds herself sharing an office building and Sunday services at her new church with the older brother, a divorce counselor, of her attacker...the very man she'd been in love with before her rape.

In the time since Kyle Feldmann's brother was jailed for his crime against Samantha, he's lived with the torment of all he's lost because of his sibling. Before the tragedy that stole Samantha from him and destroyed his dreams, Kyle had begged her to risk her father's disappointment and elope with him. Seeing Samantha again after so many years, being near her, only puts him right back where he was before the rape. Kyle wants to heal Samantha, love her, and fulfill the dreams he grieved the loss of--by marrying her. But how can they be together forever when she's still so broken?

All her life, Samantha had wanted her father's approval, but his selfish part in putting her in a dangerous situation has led her to a painful place of desperately needing to forgive him and her attacker...and being unable to in all the time since the traumatic event that ripped her life in two. As she gives her heart to Kyle once more, her already fractured relationship with the Lord is tested. In the crossfire of faith, she wonders if glass angels shatter beyond recognition when they take a leap of faith, or if they can heal and become stronger than ever before.

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Worlds Collide, Book 6 of the Family Heirlooms Series

I enjoyed Marc and Keiko's story while Marc struggled to be a gentleman with Keiko. As her parents’ customs dictate, she’s been engaged to an older man since she was a child. Her secret feelings for Marc solidify her desire to disobey their wishes and break the engagement that has nothing to do with love. Keiko and Marc have been best friends since the day they met, working at the same missionary hospital in Japan. Marc is also friends with Keiko’s brother. The two siblings have accepted the Lord but aren’t ready to tell their parents. When Marc returns to America, Keiko can’t bear to be separated with him. But can they find a way to be together when they come from such different worlds? I enjoyed watching the couple struggle with their desires, needs, and family traditions as well as the glimpse into a different culture.”

Hotcha, Amazon Reviews ”

FOUR STARS! What I did not mention in my synopsis is that no one in Curt's family, except his mother, has ever approved of Zoë. The woman that Curt had dumped Zoë for is also in this story.

So Curt has his work cut out for him in proving his fidelity to Zoë. Another thing I did not mention is that Zoë and Curt both have big Maine Coon Cats. If not for those two cats, the pair may never have gotten back together.

Each character has its own developed background; however, the main and secondary characters have fully developed ones. Zoë's roommate will have her story told in a later title. Zoë's two other friends had their stories told in the Family Heirloom Series (of which this new series is a spin-off). Each title is a stand-alone story and, as always, each story is fabulous!

FOUR STARS! One of the best things I like about Karen Wiesner’s stories is that she writes realistically. When two or more characters have different views of a situation, Wiesner states the view point of each person.

By doing so, I, as the reader, can understand why each character reacts they way s/he does. I can empathize and with most, if not all, characters and (therefore) understand their dilemmas. Most every tale that I have read from Wiesner is written this way and it keeps drawing me back for more of her stories.

I state all this because I figured many reading my synopsis would wonder just how Mike enlisting and leaving LeeAnn alone could actually help her. Readers probably wonder if he was actually abandoning her when she needed comfort and stability. Only by reading the story and understanding Michael’s point-of-view will the reader be able to understand.

New readers to the series will not find themselves lost. This is a stand-alone story; however, if you read the first title in this series, you will recognize the main characters as secondary ones in this story. I enjoyed every moment I spent reading this gem and plan to pick up another of Wiesner’s titles to read during my upcoming vacation. Wonderful, as usual.

In this next book in the series, we gain insight into the best friend of Ashley, the heroine of the previous story. Jazz had been with her throughout her childhood horror and they remain close in the present. In SHARDS OF ASHLEY, Jazz and Wesley broke up when he learned some disturbing details from her previous life.

As a pastor, he’d had to make a choice about whether she was the wife God wanted for him. But it quickly became clear to him that she was. Married life is filled with joy neither could have imagined before, but there’s an elephant in the room never discussed.

Even as an adult and married woman, Jazz continues to look out for her aging father, a characteristic that’s beautiful to behold. But forgiving herself for the past isn’t easy when closure about so many things is lacking. This story is a tear-jerker.

I rooted for Jazz and Wesley to find a happily-ever-after the whole time. Can’t wait to find out what’s next in the series!

In Peaceful, Wisconsin, young teens Chad Feldmann and Winnie McBride have sex. She becomes pregnant and gives birth to a baby girl. To avoid the errors that most kids having kids do, Chad insists they remain celibate until they graduate and marry. Three years later, after the couple completes high school, they wed and raise their child Kally.
Winnie feels resentment towards her husband and daughter as she sacrificed much for them to become a family. As she works two jobs and takes care of little Kally, her disappointment is further fueled when Chad uses his college fund that his family banked for him to pursue his dreams. Chad knows he made foolish mistakes out of love and his constant fear his soulmate would leave him; but his recent actions to insure he can care for his two beloved females instead may fulfill his nightmarish prophecy.

The fourth fabulous Friendship Heirlooms series (see Forever And All That Jazz) star two wonderful protagonists as Chad and Winnie have love, a baby and marriage in that order, but apparently also a dying relationship. With a strong support cast (a trademark of Ms. Wiesner as for instance this lead couple were in the Family Heirlooms Series drama Glass Angels), fans will relish the return to Peaceful although what appears to be the end of a marriage.

5 Stars In Peaceful, Wisconsin A&A Design Elaina Houston reflects back to her childhood in which her parents demanded 24/7 perfect behavior (as defined by them) from her. She tried to live up to the parental paragon but failed as no person could meet the expectations demanded by her father and mother. Eventually she gave up attempting to live someone else’s fantasy at the cost of internal tsuris; though since she quit trying Elaina almost always focuses on the bad from her past while ignoring the good.

Her only reliefs from self-induced misery are her belief in the Lord, and her Odd Jobs co-worker and BFF Ethan Lynwood as he likes the “real” Elaina. Super-egotistical Ethan believed in his unfailing genius that led him to make terrible errors that hurt others as he covered for the misdeeds of his father and especially his brother Sebastian. The camel’s back broke when his sibling’s actions led to the suicide of Abby, a girl Ethan liked.

Giving up on “evil” Sebastian and deciding to leave his family behind in Chicago, Ethan fled to La Crosse to escape from his enabling mistakes; as he has learned wisdom without humility and passion for the Lord and people lead to prideful transgressions. Two years ago Ethan met Elaina. In love with God and each other, neither anticipated their pasts to arrive with vengeance.

The fifth fantastic Friendship Heirloom inspirational contemporary (see First Comes Love and Forever And All That Jazz) is a delightful novel starring two protagonists who turned to God to help them deal with dysfunctional family histories. The suspense comes late, but brings completeness (and full circle) to a tremendous drama.

CLUMSY GIRL’S GUIDE TO HAVING A BABY, by Karen Wiesner. Although this is a sequel to CLUMSY GIRL’S GUIDE TO FALLING IN LOVE, you can appreciate the new novel without having read that one or any of the other books set in Wiesner’s fictional town of Peaceful, Wisconsin. This story unfolds partly in Zoe’s distinctive, funny first-person narrative voice and partly in third person from Curt’s viewpoint.

The author makes both characters sympathetic and understandable. The interaction of feminine insecurity and masculine cluelessness is delightful and touching. Wiesner pulls off the most effective type of humor, in which the humorous predicaments aren’t funny to the protagonists suffering through them.

At the same time, the serious aspects of Curt and Zoe’s relationship and the problems they grapple with remain convincingly real. The supporting cast features a charming group of quirky, relatable secondary characters. The reader doesn’t feel, as in some relationship-centered stories, that the hero and heroine live in a social vacuum.

This novel also has inspirational content, and the religious dimension is realistically integrated into the story as a natural part of the couple’s life. By the conclusion, hero and heroine achieve a fully satisfying and believably well-earned happy ending

5 Stars I just loved this book, and I marveled at Vashti Samuels strong faith in her God, and the way she kept herself pure for her husband. It was so refreshing for her to stand firm in her beliefs even when her two best friends, Roz and Justice, deserted her because of Roz’s selfish need to have Justice to herself. I felt so bad that Justice found himself caught between the two most important women in his life. ALL GOOD THINGS is A MUST READ!

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A Sweet Read
I loved this cozy mystery by Christine DeSmet! Her engaging characters leap off the page as do her vivid descriptions of the Lake Michigan scenery. And then there are the delicious descriptions of fudge that make your mouth water. Thankfully, there are recipes available at the back of the book.
Candy shop owner and fudge maker extraordinaire, Ava Oosterling, provides a wedding venue for her friend at her inn and also agrees to make the table arrangements--edible fudge lighthouses patterned off those in the county. But disaster hits in the form of a gang of thieves, a dead body, and Ava's involvement as an undercover detective. The result is a rollicking mystery that keeps you entertained from beginning to end. This light read is highly recommended!

Margaret Mizushima, Amazon Review ”

Fudge, History and Mystery
The story unfolds in the picturesque village of Fishers’ Harbor where the scent of fudge wafts through the air, blending seamlessly with the rich history of Door County, Wisconsin. Ava Oosterling is preparing her Blue Heron Inn for Christmas guests and the upcoming wedding of her best friend. When a murder shakes the tranquil village to its core, eight residents, each with their own secrets and motives, become the focal point of the investigation.

Among them is Ava’s grandfather, adding a personal touch to the suspense. DeSmet’s story is filled with intricate relationships, suspicions, and hidden agendas, leaving readers guessing until the very end. This latest addition to the Fudge Shop Cozy Mystery Series is a delightful blend of history, mystery, and mouthwatering fudge.

With its well-drawn characters, intricate plot twists, and a setting that comes alive on the page, this book is a must-read for fans of the genre. Be prepared for a journey through Door County that will have you craving fudge and another book from DeSmet’s captivating series. A great holiday gift for lovers of the genre and Door County.

Love the mix of magic and technology This was the first one of these books that I read, not realizing that it was actually last of the ones he has written so far in terms of sequence of events. I have read all of the books multiple times and it is one of my favorite series.

To me it is what is great about independent publishing. I would really recommend them if you like a great story line. I read a ton and this is one of the best indie authors I have come across.

Reviewed By: John M Huzinec

Great book in a great series! I've been following this author since I first stumbled onto one of his earlier books in this series (well, this world) - Reality'S Plaything. There's some tremendous worldbuilding, compelling stories, and plenty more.

This author is really one of the gems in the wild that you stumble upon sometimes. I would suggest starting with one of the earlier books in the series though.

Reviewed By: Chris

I love these books I hate writing reviews, but nobody is, so I like these books because anything can happen. I'm finished, please buy the books I want him to finish the series.

Reviewed By: Bob

Gypsy Road Series, Book 1: Leather & Lace (Gypsy Road Contemporary Romance)
In this light contemporary romance, Bethany Briggs is a shy, virginal salon owner. Her older brother raised her after their parents died. Needless to say, he’s overprotective despite that she’s 24.

She’s so naïve he’s afraid if she’s allowed to make her own decisions--and mistakes--she’ll get hurt. On the surface, Rod Summers is the very definition of bad boy. I was skittish of him from the minute he walked into Bethany’s salon.

The rumors about his temporary conquests are legendary. Even someone as sweet as Bethany has heard them. Yet her heart beats faster at her first sight of him while Rod has truly never met anyone like her before.

This couple from completely different worlds embodies the romantic ideals of leather and lace. I loved this story.

Flesh and Blood Randy Briggs only wanted to protect her but she was so jittery that he just had to hold her, and then after one night of hot sex, bang !! She was gone and he had no way to contact her and looked for her everywhere! Ten years later, he rehab houses and sold them at a profit, but the last house sold before he could find another that had him staying at his sister's boyfriends place.

The place was huge and he was hesitant to move in as Rod had invited his girlfriend and her brother to stay with them without asking his sister. The emotions of JoJo and Randy sizzle on the pages as Randy is determined to get his woman! Ms. Wiesner has an excellence and the passion in writing her books that endear readers to seek out more of her books.

Fire and Ice

In this 4 1/2 star read, Jon Rushing is the man of Tracey Scott's dreams. Their attraction is apparent at the outset, but Jon cannot fulfill Tracey's deepest need. Only a child will make her feel complete and give Tracey the cemented relationship she desires, and Jon has had a vasectomy. Tracey is unlike any woman Jon has met, a prize he cannot lose. He promises to be her knight in shining armor. Tightly written and fast-paced, the story deals with serious issues every modern woman must face. Wiesner's work will appeal to fans of more sophisticated women's fiction without alienating the romance genre crowd.

Gypsy Road Series, Book 4: Vows & the Vagabond

I was torn apart by this book. I felt sorry for Lori as her mom never wanted children and gave her up the moment she was born and left her to her dad. Blackie had been left by a dumpster, abandoned by his parents. I can only imagine how something so horrible played with his mind, and I was so glad Lori's dad gave him a place to stay and loved him like his own son. Jerry thought he was protecting his very young daughter when he forced Blackie to make a vow not to go after Lori. As Lori grew up, she did destructive actions just to get Blackie's attention. Time after time when Lori got into trouble, it was Blackie she called. Karen Wiesner writes novels that almost seem real. I feel with the characters, and I sometimes curse a blue streak at them. The books in the Gypsy Road Series (this is Book 4) can be read out of order easily without confusion.

A tale of growth
This is the story of a maltreated child who carries out a terrible act but repents and changes his ways. It is told through the eyes of a wise old lady who has a strange connection with the young boy. Heartwarming in parts, shocking in others; very readable all the way through. I would have given it five stars but for two things: the ending seemed rushed; and the author's refusal to spell out rude words, which, as these appear often throughout, I found highly distracting.

The Road to Second Chances is Paved with Landmines
The story was well-written and kept me hooked. It shows what can happen when people care enough to break the downward spiral. It shows tragedy, anger, and hatred, but then, kindness, forgiveness, and then some mistakes and action, followed by more prejudice and action, and... I don't want to spoil the ending.

From the Midst of Tragedy Comes a Hopeful and Redemptive Story
Dr. Rich's latest book Hit & Run is a compelling read right from the opening paragraph to its final word. It tells the story of an enraged and out of control 14 year old boy named Chuck (Charles) who purposely runs over and kills 6 innocent children, as well as their crossing supervisor. Fortunately, he narrowly missed an 84 year old woman named Sylvia who in many ways becomes the most pivotal character in the story.

Ironically, it is Sylvia who is able to establish a paranormal relationship with the young perpetrator. This leads us on an unexpected journey toward healing and redemption that not only benefits the boy, but also the families that have suffered unfathomable loss, and the greater community. The beauty of Dr. Rich's writing is that he comes at it from a psychological and societal perspective.

In fact, Dr. Rich is a retired psychologist. His professional wisdom and narrative sensibilities shines through his writing. This is especially true through the engrossing and developing dialogue between Sylvia and Charles, as well as how the psychologist Dr. Vlad is able to provide needed counseling to help others deal with the very real impact of trauma and loss on their lives.

This novel is a testament to the power of love, and Sylvia becomes our ultimate guide. All who have their lives touched by Sylvia's loving spirit eventually learn compassion for others... even those who have been so hurt that they have experienced profound anger, despair, and hatred. Hit & Run is a story well worth reading in that it helps us to embrace love over hate, thereby raising our social consciousness.

Love Always Wins
Is it possible for a hell-bent teenager to turn himself around? In this story, we see a drug crazed, typical inner city youth, tired of being alive at the age of fourteen. He is angry at the world and determined to take a lot of innocent people out with him.

When Charlie Debnall drives an out of control car into a group of elementary school children as they attempt to cross the street, it unleashes a chain of events which eventually lead to total and complete transformation from the inside out. Not only are school children and the crossing supervisor brutally murdered, but aging Sylvia Kraz, also attempting to cross the street with the aid of her wheelie walker, narrowly misses her demise at the hands of Charlie. Sylvia gets a good glimpse of Charlie's face, making eye contact, as he speeds by leaving carnage in his wake.

With her uncanny artistic abilities, she sketches his face then experiences Charlie appearing to her in her bedroom through mental telepathy. Her drawing of his face leads to his arrest and yet the visits continue. Sylvia's psychologist assists her in working through her traumatic brush with death and guides her into a past life regression which establishes her connection to Charlie.

When Sylvia agrees to help look after Charlie's little brother, Tommy, a bond of trust is formed. Over the course of the story, we see a collage of characters all woven together with one goal in mind and that is to help Charlie and his little brother, Tommy, break the pattern of abuse and learn to be good decent humans. What they don't realize is that they are all growing and learning in the process of helping the boys.

This is a touching story which brings to light paranormal activity and past life connections and how those connections continue to weave through each lifetime. A fascinating read, that keeps you turning one page after the other, and holding your breath when Charlie "stuffs up", as he calls it. This is a great story with a message of hope and inspiration. Love wins.

Thought provoking
Most normal people feel horrified and sickened by a senseless crime, particularly one committed against defenceless children. The crime in Bob Rich's book 'Hit and Run' is one such act of savagery and one that cries out for justice. Where this story differs from the usual crime and punishment tale, however, is in the thoughts and actions of one old lady who witnessed the deaths and came near to becoming a victim herself.

Rather than give in to a desire for vengeance against the heartless perpetrator, she is moved to forgive the young man and try to understand his motivation. What follows is a startling account of what can happen when good people decide to show love instead of the all too easy desire for vengeance and retribution. Forgiveness is not an easy path to follow, and several members of the community are reluctant to show mercy to the young man who wantonly killed so many young children.

It is a cliché that 'no man is an island unto himself' but like it or not we are each of us alone in our thoughts and inner torments -- but what if we were not? Young Charlie Debnall, his character warped and twisted by horrific circumstances and a terrible upbringing, finds his 'island' connected by a causeway to the old lady he almost killed -- Sylvia Kryz. This connection opens up possibilities that he had never imagined and leads to him turning his life around and taking the first steps on the long road to becoming a worthwhile member of society.

This is a simple story yet also a complex one with a wide array of characters on both sides of the ledger. Some people actively work against Charlie's rehabilitation; others refuse to even give him a chance, but a growing number believe in the possibility of change and it is heartening to see the gradual blossoming of a mind stunted by terrible circumstances. 'Hit and Run' is a story of hope in a world where it sometimes seems as if civilisation is crumbling around us.

MASTERFUL STORYTELLING
This story gripped me right from the first few lines. Mrs. Sylvia Kryz, AKA The Old Duck, is an 84 year old lady who is almost bowled over by a car driven by 14 year old Charlie Debnall (Chuck, a derogative term given to him by his mother because she chucked up all the way through her pregnancy). Naomi, the school crossing lady, and six children are killed.

Charlie is an angry boy who had been brutalized by his mother's numerous drunken and druggie boyfriends. The only person he cares about is his 6 year old brother, Tommy. Everyone hates Charlie, but under the influence of Mrs Kryz who believes there is good in the boy, a cavalcade of colourful characters pass through the story and become staunch allies in Mrs. Kryz's attempts to save Charlie from himself.

They include Mrs Kyz's family; Vlad Stavrou, the psychologist from Victim's Services; Reverend Martin, a Uniting Church Minister who was jailed for murdering his sister's rapist, but found God; and Brigitte, so full of hate after her husband left her that she alienated her children. There are several themes skilfully wove into this story: love, hate, revenge, redemption and second chances. The story is almost brutal in parts, but so vividly portrayed I could feel the hatred, hear the vile language used by Charlie's slovenly, alcoholic mother and Brutal Bruce, his latest stepfather.

They sent shivers of distaste along my spine. Tommy, the six year old brother, was naughty and foul-mouthed, but somehow endearing just the same. The most incredible part of this story was the parts where Charlie and Mrs. Kryz had telepathic meetings with each other.

I am not into this psychic type of thing as a rule, but the events were so brilliantly executed, they were plausible even to an unbeliever like me. Hard to say much more without spoiling the story, but believe me when I say, if you want a great read, this it. A Word of caution though. Make sure you have enough time to read it at the one sitting, because like me, you won't want to put it down until you have devoured every word.

A redemptive story for our troubled times
We live in troubled times. All around us, in country after country, people do unspeakable things. What is particularly heinous is when a young person lashes out, killing others.

Thus begins this book. Charlie, at fourteen, has given up on life and himself, and decides to share his pain by running his car through a crosswalk of children, killing a number of them and narrowly missing an elderly woman, Sylvia, in the process. Soon after the traumatizing event, Sylvia begins to have initially unwelcome paranormal contact with Charlie.

Through these contacts Sylvia is allowed a window into Charlie's past and the ugly forces that shaped his choices, and Charlie learns that not all adults are there to abuse him. This story highlights the redemptive power of love, acceptance, kindness, and loving accountability. It shows that even when we have good reason to hate, we can choose to love and to guide others rather than punish them.

It promotes looking more deeply into others to find the hurtful events that create negative attitudes and behaviors. And it encourages us to turn our own pain into something positive, rather than allow it to fester and injure us further from the inside out. These lessons are layered within a story that focuses on the here and now, day to day transformations occurring within multiple characters as they face the aftermath of violent choices and loss.

The conversations feel legitimate, and the characters could be our next door neighbors. One is left wishing that our real world could mirror the change in beliefs and attitudes shown within the story. As a person who believes in redemption and the ability to change, I recognize it often does not happen with the fluidity and speed seen in this story, but it would be a lovely world if it could.

The paranormal qualities to the story were not distracting from the reality of events. They were used in ways to make important points, and were not belabored to the point of taking away from the main plot, which appeared to accurately represent today's youth and our troubled world. This is a solid read which encourages readers to ponder our tendency to rush to judgment, and hand out consequences, without regard to what life influences someone has endured before doing something hurtful or incomprehensible.

The psychological background of the author adds an element of authenticity to the sections of the story where Charlie is helped to understand what drove his decision and how he might change, to avoid being held hostage to those influences. Anyone who has experienced similar life events would find much encouragement within those parts of the novel.

Another 5 Stars
Another 5 Stars for Bob Rich. He's done it again, a wonderful tail with many, as usual, messages leading us to good advice on social manners.

"Hit and Run" is anything but, and you'll remember this story for a good, long time!
"Hit and Run" is a story of many things, and starts as an intersection of lives through a tragic event. But instead of treading the usual "police evidence ground" to uncover the antagonist, we meet him in a most unusual way. I'll say nothing more to limit the spoilers, but suffice to say, this book took me on a journey I'd never taken before.

Which was refreshing! And it held my interest to the end, so combined with the excellent, cliche'-free writing and the imaginative tale - and honestly, most of all, the characters - this warrants a solid 5 stars. Congrats and Very well done!!

redemption story
Sylvia Kryz is speaking to Vlad Stavrou, a psychologist, explaining what she witnessed: A gleeful young man driving a red car purposefully running into her friend Naomi, a school crossing guard, and six children under the age of seven. All were killed. He only just missed Sylvia because, at age 84, she was a few steps behind them, using her wheelie for support.

For the policewoman Jemina Johnson, Sylvia drew several very accurate pictures of the young man's side features. She wanted to draw his face from the front. That night, she had a dream where she pictured him full-frontal in her room … and he appeared … foul-mouthed and aggressive.

After her dream meeting, she drew his frontal face and gave it to Jemina. This strange meeting occurrence reoccurred many times after she initially drew the boy's image. She learned his name was Chuck, because he made his mother chuck when she was pregnant with him, but Sylvia called him Charlie.

She learned he was physically abused at home and didn't care much about anything but his 6-year-old brother Tommy, who he wanted to protect. During their 'meetings' she gave Charlie advice to help him through some of his problems. The police caught Charlie and took Tommy into protective custody.

By then, Sylvia's opinion had changed. She believed Charlie could become a good person. At a memorial meeting for the dead children and Naomi, and after a priest makes statements about vengeance, Sylvia speaks, telling of the violence against Charlie and Tommy, and that violence always begets violence.

She suggests a solution—as a community they can teach these boys a better way of life. After her speech, things change but it's a slow, hard road to follow, and Charlie still faces murder charges and prison. It is surprising who decides to take part in this reclamation, but can they really make a difference in these boys' lives? Hit and Run is an interesting and beguiling read.

A pleasant night's read The first thing to note about this book is that it's easy reading. The language is clear, always appropriate to the emotions, so the reader can get lost in the content. That content is a detective story, featuring a policewoman, to me improbably, named Jane Doe.

While investigating a series of murders of prostitutes in Melbourne, Jane suffers a depressed skull fracture, and needs a holiday. A colleague recommends a place, at the suggestion of another policeman Jane had worked with, in the distant past. But another murder spoils the idyllic holiday. Jane is the witness who finds the body, and is out of the jurisdiction, and on holiday, but gets involved anyway. This is interlaced with the question: will she marry Oliver or won't she?

All the classical elements of a murder mystery are there, including danger to the detective, and the insertion of cues, to see if the reader can solve the crime before the detective. I'm proud to say I did, but I won't tell you. Excellent characterisation and description, and a twist including a ghost, make this book a pleasant night's reading. Dr.

Reviewed By: Robert Rich

A old fashioned whodunit A good read. Ghosts and a serial killer mixed into a read that has a female police officer as the main character. Okay can't really say that I particularly liked her but she was tenacious, determined and recovering from a head injury that let her see ghosts.

That of a husband who is still grieving over the murder of his wife and who had committed suicide to be with her. But 35 years on he was still searching for her. She has been ordered to rest after the injury that she had gotten whilst investigating a serial killer. Almost Ripper like in his actions. They meet on a deserted beach where she is staying at a small cottage. Another murder, a DNA link, flower and threats and then a showdown. Will she survive to unmask the killer?

It would have been a great read if the culprit hadn't been so very obvious. A few more suspects and a few more red herrings would have been great

Reviewed By: Kindle Customer

test review from a test purchase :)

MINE is a delightfully written book that will sweep you away with the danger. Author Dee Lloyd has captured danger and betrayal, mystery and romance and inter-mixed it into a book that will not just keep your attention riveted but your fingers turning the pages.

Dee Lloyd can always be counted on for fast paced, exciting romantic murder mysteries. Fast becoming one of my favorite suspense authors, Dee writes strong, intelligent women who challenge the men around them. Her stories never fail to keep me on the edge of my seat to the very end, which comes far too soon!

...Sparkles with imagination creatively lending a new twist to the age-old prospector's tale. Bravo Dee, for the wonderful word play and the joyful celebration of love. This reviewer truly looks forward to many more tales from the pen of this talented author.

Mine builds in intensity and excitement to a fine, rip-roaring ending. Dee Lloyd offers pulse-pounding excitement leavened by a tender love story.

This is an interesting & well-written book. The dialogue is natural, the characters are believable & the plot is exciting. Who could ask for more?

Dee Lloyd is gifted with more than mere writing talent. She can see into people, love them just the same, and put that all together with skilled words. A charming read.

Mine by Dee Lloyd sure is one of those books where you wish it were a movie because of all the action and suspense in this one story. I mean from the beginning you have the suspense with someone killing George then you have Cadie's return that brings in more action, not to mention a gorgeous ex-detective Marc Banachek. Here is a man, who becomes a writer from his experience as a detective, and woman, a bookseller, that come together in an unusual way. Dee Lloyd did a remarkable job of throwing in so many loops to bring them together. I mean the book is great with all the action but to see these two come together it is as Cadie says "combustible".

Recommended for its fun-filled action and suspense that is full of rollercoaster fun with two people not looking for a relationship and about to find out that sometimes you have to take a chance.

From the first sentence in Mine I was drawn into the book by the suspense interwoven so skillfully into this love story. Dee Lloyd brought the characters to life, and I hope to read more of her books in the future.

Ex-cop turned mystery novelist Marcus Banachek has been enjoying the solitude of life in northern Ontario for several months, since the death of his friend and former landlord, George Haywood. He has no plans to vacate the premises, despite the wishes of George's granddaughter, Arcadie, and his own feelings toward her.

An artist and co-owner of a bookshop, Cadie is recuperating from a near-fatal car accident, as well as grieving for her grandfather. She's in no mood to deal with Marc, either. A mishap mere moments after her arrival at Nighthawk Lake forces the issue--Marc is virtually incapacitated for a few days, and unwillingly, Cadie briefly becomes nurse, companion and chauffeur.

Packing her grandfather's possessions, going through his papers, Cadie notices that his books have been disturbed. In spite of a methodical search, she doesn't discover any reason that anyone might have looked through George's effects. A telephone call from her Uncle Jack makes Cadie suspicious, however. He's trying to persuade her to sell the land on Nighthawk Lake--and she begins to wonder why. Could it have something to do with the value of the claims George staked on the property, prior to his untimely death?

In the hands of a less talented writer, MINE could have been a routine woman-in-jeopardy book. Ms. Lloyd has constructed a taut, absorbing story, peopled with three-dimensional characters. ... She's definitely a woman to watch. I'll be looking forward to reading her future work.

WHEN RUDOLPH WAS KIDNAPPED is better than a hot cup of cocoa topped with whipped cream and a peppermint stick! Author Christine DeSmet dishes up the best of both worlds as her characters—Crystal Hagan and Peter LeBarron—make you laugh one minute, then your toes wiggle in your snow boots the next. Book 1 in the Mischief in Moonstone Series, I'm looking forward to the next!

This story tugs at the heart of many Christmas celebrations, the children. Through a class of bright-eyed children, older generations find new meaning in community celebrations and traditions.

Rating 4 lighthouses

When her pet reindeer, Rudolph, is stolen from the live animal holiday display in her small town, teacher Crystal Hagan has a big problem. Her students fear that Christmas will be canceled. The prime suspect is old man Henri LeBarron, who played Santa long ago before he became a recluse. Crystal marches to his mansion known as the "North Pole" and meets Henri's son, Peter, who acts even more curmudgeonly and secretive than his father. To her shock, he admits to kidnapping Rudolph and he won't give him back.

Peter LeBarron finds his lonely existence charmed by the first-grade teacher who comes to his door with homemade chocolate pudding cake as a bribe for getting her reindeer back peaceably. This isn't the type of woman he's used to in his jet-set world. But is she the type of woman he can trust with the secrets of the "North Pole" and his own past?

Well written, enjoyable story, which kept me guessing almost to the end as to who the real kidnapper was.

Superior, Wisconsin may feel like the North Pole Superior, Wisconsin may feel like the North Pole, so the residents of this little town led my first-grade teacher, Crystal Hagan, do all they can to celebrate Christmas in a big way. It starts with a live nativity featuring Crystal’s own reindeer named Rudolph. It takes place in front of a huge mansion, which the children believe is the “North Pole”. But this year Rudolph is stolen from its spot in the manger. The children are upset because Santa can’t come without Rudolph. Crystal believes the owner of the mansion has stolen her pet, and his son admits it! He promises the reindeer will be returned if his father’s demands are met. This leads to some interesting negotiations and activities including Crystal’s first graders.

This story is perfect for a Hallmark holiday movie. Mayhem and toe-curling romance abound in this little town on chilly Lake Superior. The characters span all generations. Crystal meets Peter while looking for her missing reindeer. She can’t believe his father, a man who used to dress up as Santa, would take her reindeer, but the man has changed over the years, and even more just over the past few weeks. Peter has left the warmth of his Arizona home to try to figure out why his dad is selling his home and his business.

All the characters are realistic and with being a novella we need to get to know them fast. The author does a wonderful job of bringing them to life.

A missing reindeer is a cute little mystery. The mayhem that takes place leading up to getting him back is heartwarming and at times really funny. The romance, again because of the length of the story also happens quickly but not easily.

Ms. DeSmet has crafted a wonderful Christmas story. It helped to get me into the Christmas spirit and may become an annual read. Seriously Hallmark…movie, I am just saying. 🙂

A Fast, Fun Holiday Read! WHEN RUDOLPH WAS KIDNAPPED is better than a hot cup of cocoa topped with whipped cream and a peppermint stick! Author Christine DeSmet dishes up the best of both worlds as her characters—Crystal Hagan and Peter LeBarron—make you laugh one minute, then your toes wiggle in your snow boots the next. Book 1 in the Mischief in Moonstone Series, I'm looking forward to the next!

“This was a fun mini escape on a Sunday afternoon. The characters were engaging and funny. The romance sizzled at just the right temperature. Again, as with the first novella of this series, When Rudolph was Kidnapped, this story has a Lifetime or Hallmark movie feel. Being set in my home state of Wisconsin was just the thing to hook me from beginning to end.

Lori Caswell/Dollycas, Amazon Verified Purchase ”

“DeSmet masterfully mixes the real with the unreal resulting in an irresistible story of romance and life’s lessons learned. And best of all, she stirs in a generous portion of northern Wisconsin history mixed with a generous helping of fanciful descriptions of mouth-watering potluck dishes (ie. A dish to pass) thrown in. This is a fun romp told by a masterful storyteller. I loved it!

Ann Dallman, Amazon Verified Purchase ”

“Pink to the hilt--except for what's on the hammer, that's blood. A fertility rug. A St. Bernard. And priceless broken Steuben's. They all add up to murder! Could the culprit be the handsome carpenters? The karate-chopping cousin? Or maybe even the groom? I laughed my way through this romantic cozy, and you will, too!

Laurie Buchanan, Amazon Verified Purchase ”

Can solving the mystery of arson light a fire in your heart? In Moonstone Fire, it will. John "Bozeman" Hall is a kind-hearted man with a past Dolly O'Toole, a woman on the run, and her son Finn captured his heart and mine in DeSmet's compelling addition to her Moonstone series. A perfect love story that will leave you breathless.

Intriguing book

I don't read these types of books, but was asked to by my husband. I found it very intriguing and not boring at all. Would recommend this book to people who like sci-fantasy. Very well done for first book written.

Great Read

This one will hold your attention and keep you reading when you should be working on something else. Great twists and turns that all have a believeable logic, the plot is very well built and executed. Can't wait for a sequel. Am passing this read around to friends. Love the no smutt.

Good book

This was a very good book. Differnet then what I am used to but that is what made it so interesting.

HOME is a heart-wrenching and emotional, inspirational novel. The characters and their experiences are so realistic, it made me think of what's important in life and the consequences of each choice made.

...If you love characters so realistic, you actually feel like you know them inside and out and can’t be satisfied until each one is in a good place, you’ll want to read DESTINY.

FOUR STARS! It is always interesting to me to see a fellow gamer get his or her story told, but this gamer girl is almost detached from reality. Seeing her wake-up call (waking in bed with her best friend) is very entertaining.

I read this entire novel in one sitting. That is simple to do since Karen Wiesner has such a smooth writing style that is easy to read. As always, all the characters are likeable and have well developed backgrounds.

This author is always very thorough. I like that about her. Some of the characters in the Peaceful series come from the Friendship and Heirlooms series.

Therefore, you may see some familiar faces! If you want a book to make your reality to go away, for a few hours on the beach or wherever, this story is perfect for you. Karen Wiesner is making her mark in the Romance genre.

FOUR STARS! I have no doubt that many ladies in the real world have had their own version of an "Alexander" in their lives. However, I do not believe most of them were as mean as Riley's.

Watching Riley, Blaze, and their kin as they deal with all the problems that come their way kept my attention throughout the story. Just as watching Riley and Blaze spend some wonderful time together did. If you have not read any of the previous titles, I assure you that each story stands alone.

However, it is nice to see the previous main characters of stories have parts as secondary characters in others. It makes me feel as though I actually know these people. Karen Wiesner weaves all their lives together to create a warm and friendly town with some amazing locals in it. I can hardly wait to read more about Peaceful, Wisconsin.

FIVE STARS! This story is outstanding. The time flew by as I read, hardly coming up for air.

The town of Peaceful is not an existing one. If it were, I would be tempted to move there. It is a small modern-day community with old-fashioned values. (Both the Family and Friendship Heirlooms series’ are set there too.) This particular series, Peaceful Pilgrim, is in no certain order.

This means readers do not need to worry about which title to read first. Just pick up a title and enjoy. Characters by Karen Wiesner seem to come alive.

I came to care for several of them, especially Lena and Neve. I hated Rick instantly. Wiesner has given him a past that shows how deadly he can be.

I found myself actually worried for Lena and Neve – fictional characters. A part of me had becomes invested in their plight. I simply cannot say enough wonderful things about this story. Fantastic!

FOUR STARS! Author Karen Wiesner has added a wonderful new installment to the Peaceful Pilgrims series. Each character is well developed and has an interesting background story.

I could see and understand what each character (except for Rick) was going through and why they reacted the way they did. On a side note, I could not help but shake my head in amazement when Landon sent Tammie the "it's over" by text message. I thought only teenagers ever made this mistake.

In my mind, mature people end a relationship face-to-face. The one being "dumped" deserves that much at the very least. This is a clean romance.

No hot bedroom scenes. The author does not even write out curse words in the story. If one is spoken, symbols are inserted so readers know what was said.

I also love the fact that no one in the story is perfect. Mistakes are made. Regrets happen.

Several of the characters must work through the problems, sometimes helping others as they do so. This made the tale more realistic to me. Well done!

The truth told gently I highly recommend this beautifully written book. The language is entrancing, not least because the author has captured well the music of Isaiah and Zephaniah in her words of prophecy in the story. It is an allegory of the hopes and dreams of many of us, but also about the fallen nature of humanity.

I don't think it is a spoiler to say that it ends with disaster but is saved in hope by the epilogue--a reality about the cycles of history and the rise and fall of civilizations in the large, and the life-cycles of Utopian communities in the small. The story spans many generations, but each one generation is depicted by a focussed story in itself.

There is a lovely variety of characters, each a unique individual deftly drawn with spare descriptions but telling interactions. This book sings with much truth told gently throughout.

Reviewed By: Neff

The author is a friend of mine. We read it for our book club and it does make you think about the personalities in the story. Some people may not 'GET IT" but I liked it.

Reviewed By: Pegm

An experiment in human nature It's an experiment. Can a family, or a group of people set up a society based on love and mutual respect, in which all are treated justly as equals? Can such a society carry on with its original vision for generation after generation? It's worth a try, anyway.

Claralice Wolf has written her heart out with this one. The human factor is authentic. Things don't happen automatically. Relationships take work from beginning to end. Adam and Zoe learn much, sometimes the hard way, but they make a solid beginning.

The vision, the prophecy of the Red Prophet, important events, subsequent prophesies and light from above, are all written in a special Book. Though the story lasts for seven generations, Claralice has skilfully woven all the lives into a common thread. We see each stage of the island's history through those lives, as the community grows from an extended family into a large town.

The Red Prophet's words echo throughout the narrative, as various ones recall them. They are a warning, sometimes unheeded by those who most need to listen, and sometimes an encouragement. The unicorns also speak, but only certain people have the ability to hear them.

As the story comes to a climax, we see who are the true successors of Adam Prynne, and who only think they are. How does the vision survive? Does it end in a tragedy? For some, perhaps, but for others, it's a new beginning.

Reviewed By: Robby Charters, author of Pepe

Prynne's Island is about all of us For families that have outgrown the Narnia books, Prynne's Island will give early teens and their parents some fruitful conversations. The deepest mysteries of human belief and character have long been represented in fables and legends ... and in the most profound tales that underlie all our religions.

Such is the foundation story of Prynne's Island, a tale that looks again at Adam and Eve, Cain and Abel, and the loss of the idyllic life of the Garden. This tale of a family through many generations appears fantastic and somewhat archaic on the surface, but is actually quite contemporary. It is inhabited by ordinary people, people that we might have known all our lives, people who make us ask how we ourselves are living out this ancient story of human character and destiny.

Reviewed By: Eric Wolf

Things get complicated... As the bad guys get more desperate, the fights get bigger and more apocalyptic, is there even a chance they will survive this onslaught? And how do you hide thrashings like this with all the politic enemies that are eager to represent outside help as unwanted meddling and worse?

Reviewed By: Kindle Customer

Another great read Bannor is really turning into a powerhouse. I love that he is still overshadowed by more powerful characters, but still manages to play a pivotal role. He always seems to pull out a new trick. Love the melding of tech and mythology.

Reviewed By: John M Huzinec

Fascinating near-future thriller Hugh Ryan's job might not be glamorous, but it is important. In the near future, Brussels has developed a highly sophisticated traffic network. Computers route cars around congestion. Huge parking elevators keep cars below ground and yet easily accessible. Efficient trains and a subway system move hundreds of thousands of people to their jobs. When roads fill, computers send cars to another route. When too many become congested, the same computers send the cars to the rapid transit centers. And Hugh, along with a small number of fellow workers, controls the entire system.

When things start to go bad, Hugh springs into action--and the system does its best to self-repair. But the system was never designed to deal with simultaneous toxic truck wrecks in every major intersection, power failure in the subway, the collapse of the train system, and malfunctions in the parking elevators that turn the entire city into a stationary parking lot. Hugh isn't surprised with the call comes in--a terrorist organization is holding the entire city, including heads of state from all of Nato, for ransom. Reading between the lines of the terrorist threat, Hugh realizes that someone in his own transport agency is somehow involved--and sets out to find who did it.

What follows is an action-packed adventure with plenty of plot twists and even a touch of romance. Author Gerard Readett makes his near-future traffic scenario feel real and interesting. Hugh, with his lost wife and anti-establishment tendencies, makes a sympathetic protagonist and Readett mixes in just enough scenes from those caught up in the disaster--and from the point of view of the criminals and terrorists who combine to take the city captive--to make the action seem real. I wish Readett had relied a bit less on coincidence in putting Hugh in just the right place to do so much against the terrorist threat, but that's a minor quibble with a really fascinating story.

Reviewed By: booksforabuck

Talk about a traffic jam! Being in a traffic jam takes on a new meaning in ROADWORKS. Set in the year 2022, this high tech thriller creates innovative architecture, a Traffic Management Centre (TMC), subterranean parking structures, and a whole lot of problems for Brussels, Belgium, in which the roadways have been set up like the spokes of a wagon wheel. Everything runs smoothly with the TMC keeping track of any minor emergency on the Metro, parking structures, or highway. TMC can easily re-route vehicles to other less congested travel patterns.

However, there are sixteen entry points to the center of the city, and when terrorists block them, the roadway is literally a parking lot. Very few people can get to work, but fortunately, our hero Hugh Ryan, a Transport Authority Controller, always arrives a little before 7:00 AM, so he is on the job when the problems begin. There are multiple villains with the access to shut down the city or blow up buildings, and they do both. Each is revealed, but not until the end do all of the pieces fall into place.

This is one of the most creative situations I have run across in a thriller, and all too familiar because of the traffic jams. I know just how irritated and anxious people are when stuck in traffic, and because I know, this book brought my own emotions into the story. From Prologue to ending, this is an excellent read.

Reviewed By: Victoria Tarrani

An Engaging International Thriller! The year is 2022 and the world's leaders meet for a summit in Brussels Belgium. This city's transportation system, a highly automated combination of auto, rail, and bus systems, is the envy of the world.

Hugh Ryan, a Transport Authority controller for the system, comes to work one day preparing to train a new employee when suddenly multiple systems begin to fail. Automated parking garages crush cars backing up traffic, the rail system shuts down stranding passengers, and when multiple tanker trucks explode on the major highways,

You won't be able to put it away . . . Overton writes about things that matter, that are in themselves interesting, and he provides characters to match. I learned a lot about carbon dioxide and sequestrations, but I cared more about two of the characters. Overton is one of my favorite authors. pjburnTop Contributor:

Reviewed By: Historical Fiction Books

Sequestered food for thought Thought provoking and full of scientific facts this story leads the reader down the path of what corruption and greed create. After a rather slow start the story picks up nicely and even has a bit of family turmoil and romance thrown in the mix.

Reviewed By: Sara Jane Sesay

Five Stars It's chilling, but still, well worth reading.

Reviewed By: MagnificentPony

Be Aware Are the powers that be really considering storing carbon underground? This story delves into this possibility resulting in catastrophe, providing a feasible account of such an enterprise.

The fast paced race to prevent the inevitable outcome once leakage of carbon is detected made it difficult to put the book down, knowing that a disaster was imminent but not knowing the extent of it and who would come out unscathed, if anyone. This was a great read and a disturbing insight into a venture based on greed rather than a realistic solution to a very real problem

Reviewed By: Amazon Customer

Romance Amid World War II Danger The heroine, Helen, works as a nurse to help support her family during difficult times, but she dreams of being a singer, and has a beautiful voice. One day during a surgery she has to take over for the doctor and saves a patient’s life. She turns out to be the mother of a well-to-do, well-connected dashing, handsome guy, Red, who falls for Helen. Soon Helen’s taken with him.

Just as her dreams are about to come true, the Japanese bomb Pearl Harbor, and shake her world. The plans she and Red made vanish into thin air as he’s called to a secret mission, and she’s asked to serve as a nurse in Algiers.

Ms. Andrews does a fantastic job putting the reader into the World War II era and the war itself as she weaves a tale of romance on the edge, spies and danger. I was thoroughly fascinated with this book as it gave me an inside look at a mission in World War II I knew little about. I highly recommend it for those who enjoy romance, history and suspense.

Reviewed By: GP

One Savvy Nurse I bonded with Helen from the start. She is everything I would like to be: Savvy, courageous, talented, likeable, and "give up" is not in her vocabulary. As an RN, without blinking, she fills in when the doctor isn't able.

Then World War II breaks out and Helen (as a nurse) finds herself shipped overseas and in the middle of the conflict. She will risk everything, including her life, to rescue Red, the man she loves. Ms. Andrews portrayed the love and devotion between Helen and Red very well. Their love grows as the story moves along, and you can't help rooting for them to be reunited.

Reviewed By: Laurie Bethel

A Wonderful World War II Romance This novel has so much going for it. I like the fact that Helen and Red get together and are compatible right at the start. Just when things seem moving along between Helen and Red, World War II breaks out. Helen and Red find themselves in danger in Algeria.

Mystery, intrigue and the uncovering of underhanded dealings kept me going through this novel. Much <sic> surprises occur, keeping me wondering if there will be reconciliation. I highly recommend this novel, another fine story by Regina Andrews, a talented author.

Reviewed By: Larry Hammersley

Letting God Heal A Painful Past
LIGHT OF THE HEART is a wonderful story of a young woman who struggles to get past the shadows of her childhood. Cascade is a woman who uses busyness to avoid dealing with her past. When she discovers her next project is in the town filled with painful memories, she almost runs the other way.

But when she meets Dan and start to fall for him, she must rethink her life, including issues with forgiveness. Ms. Andrews has a way of keeping the reader glued to the page. Her characters and their problems are real. She points to God as the only one who can renew the soul and offer a new start.

An Awesome Romance!

I enjoyed reading Regina Andrews' outstanding debut novel, Light of the Heart, in her Sterling Lakes Series about the talented stained glass artist Cascade Preston and project manager Dan McQuay. Andrews has created wonderful characters and a lively, interesting plot in Book One. Cascade's unhappy childhood gave her a strong reason for not wanting to return to Sterling Lakes to design and make stained glass windows for St. Luke's Church. Fortunately, her cousin and employee, Abby, turns a bid in for the job and forges Cascade's name. Abby realizes Cascade needs to face her past, even though it will be painful. Dan also has personal problems that must be resolved so he can move on to have a happier life.

The scenes are remarkable where Cascade visits the women in Tanglewood Women's Prison and gives them positive feedback on their stained glass assignments. It adds a depth to the character I appreciated. On one particular visit, the women in prison accuse Cascade of holding the church renovation up by refusing to do the stained glass job. As she leaves the prison, Cascade realizes she might be in her own personal prison.

I love Ms. Andrews' writing, and I'm sure Book Two in the Sterling Lakes Series will be another great story to enjoy.

Reviewed By: Diane Craver

An unexpected delight! I don't typically read this genre. Full disclosure, the author is a dear friend and I wanted to support her publication. Early into the book, I found myself not wanting to put it down.

The characters are easy to relate to and the story has a perfect balance of romance, mystery, and intrigue, not to mention descriptions of cities and towns in New England where I have spent much of my life. It was easy to imagine each scene and the kind-hearted characters that remind us of life's most important lessons. Download your own copy and get whisked away to Sterling Lakes, right now!

Reviewed By: Danni Boston

Love wins out. Light of the Heart by Regina Andrews is a wonderful story of two people, Cascade and Dan, who find each other. They both have issues from the past. This requires them to take a leap of faith but it is especially difficult for Cascade. She is a stained-glass artist and her career takes off. She meets Dan at her old home place, Sterling Lakes, where she is contracted to do the glass in St. Luke's church. Dan is a construction worker there. We come to love these two characters as we follow them at Sterling Lakes.

Can Cascade get past her unforgiving attitude toward those of Sterling Lakes for not helping her in the past? To me, the key answer was given by her friend, Tina. It made Cascade think and will make anyone think of their own life situations and reassess their feelings toward others whom they think have been neglectful.

Ms. Andrews has crafted a thought provoking story of sweet romance, faith, trust in each other, appreciation for others problems and trust in God. I highly recommend this first book of the Sterling Lakes Series.

Reviewed By: Larry Hammersley

Will Light up Your Heart Cascade Preston is a stained-glass artist who struggles to overcome an awful childhood and trust in men. She doesn't want anything to do with the town she grew up in when she's sought to complete the stained-glass project to remodel an old church in Sterling Lakes.

Cascade encounters the project manager, Dan McQuay, and though she's attracted and single, she turns down the job and makes up her mind to forget his blue eyes until the ladies at the prison where she volunteers make her think twice. They throw a guilt trip on her, and she ends up wanting to do the windows for the church when she visits the site and thinks they've gotten another artist.

The beauty of this book is in the method the author uses to convey God's light in the heart and entwine it with the light that filters through stained glass windows in a church.

Story of Love, Faith and good deeds.

Angels of the Heart is a great story of faith. The persistence of Maryanne is admirable. The story centers around saving a historic building, the Townsend Barn. It is about to be torn down and Maryanne embarks on seemingly insurmountable odds to save it from being replaced by a mall. Ms. Andrews does a fine job with dialogue, emotions and descriptions of scenes. Her characters come alive and the reader will root for Maryanne from first page to last page. Just when we think Maryanne has overcome one obstacle she encounters another one. This is a sweet romance which you will want desperately to succeed. Ms. Andrews knows what she is talking about as we see descriptions of big corporations, publicity, and getting things done. Your heart will be touched time and time again with the events in this story. You will have mixed emotions about her love interest, Travis, but you will come to admire him as well. The story involves a gaining of faith with the realization that God knows best. This is the second book of this series that I've read and I highly recommend this novel.

Love always wins
This is a sweet romance between Laura, a librarian, and Cliff, a baseball star. Right off, Ms. Andrews shows the attraction between Laura and Cliff. Unlike many romance stories, there is no time when Laura and Cliff are at odds with one another.

In the backdrop of Vacation Bible School, planned renovation of a church, solving of a water dispute between Sterling Lakes and Clarke's Falls, care of a boy who lives in a bad home environment and Laura's decision to start a modeling career, the love between Laura and Cliff survives. The author has excellent character development and vivid descriptions of places and people. I have read the first two books of this series and the characters of those stories are mentioned briefly in this third book. This ties the first two books nicely to this third book. novel.

This novel by Ms. Andrews is the fourth book of her Sterling Lakes series. I have read all four books in this series and I thoroughly enjoyed this one too. The character portrayals were excellent. It is about CC, the heroine and Perrin, the hero. Their clean romance develops throughout the novel. I liked the setting that CC bought the house that Perrin grew up in. I felt one of the high points was Perrin and CC going to the attic and discovering the loose board under which Perrin's deceased father stored his journal that recorded his happenings during his service time in Italy. I won't detail the contents of that journal but that segment of the story really touched my heart. I loved it and Ms. Andrews done an outstanding job with that.

Both CC and Perrin had unhappy times in their past and really cared for one another. Their mutual attraction sprang from that. They helped one another to move forward with their lives.

I recommend reading the whole series, but Glory of the Heart does a good job of being a standalone story.

Two Worlds Collide

When two worlds collide, will it create something great? In this delightful Christian Romance, we learn about two different couples with their individual trials. One couple is engaged to be married while the other just met for the first time, each coming from two completely different worlds. I enjoyed some romantic humor throughout this story, which makes for a lighthearted read.

GLORY OF THE HEART

JUST READ THE BOOK ..KINDLE VERSION..EXCELLENT...ALL READERS WILL ENJOY/..VERY SIMILAR TO OTHER STERLING LAKE SERIES BOOKS,VERY READABLE...NICE COVER ART FOR ALL READERS TO SEE...

Five Stars

One really talented writer!

4.5 stars

One must pay attention to a book's genre. I have read comments or reviews in which people complain about a book's content, when the book's description informed them of the book's theme very clearly. I am a Christian and this book has Biblical verses, testimony, faith and counseling throughout.

It is also a book of romantic connections despite class differences, much as in Pride and Prejudice. Lindsay Richardson is hired as an administrative assistance by Mr. Copley, who is an old friend of Lindsay's dearly beloved but recently deceased father. However, when she walks into "his" office she discovers that it is the son for whom she will be working, much to her AND his surprise.

Dean, not only didn't know that his father had hired a new Admin. Assistant but also resents that his "retired" father seems to still be actively running things Dean thought were under his command. One of the first things Lindsay is given to take care of is to locate a date for this evening Heart Fund Dinner as Dean's "girlfriend", Gwynneth, has bailed on him. And when Lindsay assigns this position to her sister, who comes down with a stomach virus, Lindsay is forced to be his date.

Dean has a sad history and can't forgive himself and believes that, not only has no one else forgiven him, but also that he is undeserving of that forgiveness. He was piloting the helicopter which crashed taking not only his brother's but another's life. That brother, Ronald, was the golden boy of the family.

Lindsay has many burdens and obligations and doesn't really want to be working as she thinks she should be devoting her time to taking care of her mother who is suffering from Alzheimer's. However she lost her old job when she took leave to take care of her mother temporarily. Lindsay is also very active with volunteerism in her church, from Penny Parties to Reading Buddies. When she attempts to recruit Dean, he refuses but like the son in the parable, who said he would not work in the vineyard when requested to do so by his father but later relents and does as requested, Dean begins to test the waters of giving from his heart and of his time to those who are in need. Lindsay feels drawn to Dean but also sees and is shown by word and deed from his family and his "girlfriend" how she doesn't fit into his circle. (Shades of Darcy and Elizabeth!)

This story is one in which both protagonists have misunderstandings and doubts about how GOD is leading them and what they should be doing to follow his will. Lindsay's sister, Meg, her aunt, the Visiting Nurse Assoc., Claire (a co-worker), and a newspaper photographer add to pressures while she is trying to sort out the path GOD would have her follow. Dean has the family business, his social position, his family, the girl his mother and sister want him to marry and the new girl at the office pulling on his time and attention. And despite the fact that he is a multi-tasker, he is having some difficulty getting a clear picture of his responsibilities, his relationships and his social priorities. Medical emergencies for family members add to the burdens for both.

There are some very heartwarming moments in this story, from Dean's relationship with Claire's baby granddaughter to a Santa substitute to Thanksgiving at which Dean's mother shows up unexpectedly. Of interest were the moments when Lindsay had to speak her mind but did so with guidance so as to "set someone straight". (I would be hard pressed and have to be biting my tongue given the situations.) And then there is that photographer who just won't quit...until he meets sister, Meg.

This was a quick read but provided some touching moments even to the point that my eyes became misty. Great little story for an afternoon's escape.

I enjoyed this story for its depth and genuine feel. Andrews’ writing style is easy to read and the plot moves along nicely. It was a type of story that I felt so invested in that I found myself always anxious to return to reading it.

The romance is warm and enchanting. Lindsay Richardson’s faith and upbeat attitude encourages her boss, Dean Copley to let go of his guilt about his brother’s death. She does this by getting wealthy Dean involved with people and children not having the same extravagant lifestyle. Lindsay’s faith enables Dean to develop into a happier individual.

Lindsay’s mother has Alzheimer’s and that isn’t easy on her two daughters. Lindsay and her sister Meg want their mother to have the best care possible. I felt the strong, sad emotions Lindsay experiences as she has to leave her mother daily to go to her new job at Copley Industries. When Dean visits their home and brings a musical snow globe with the nativity scene, Mrs. Richardson responds positively to the music. Lindsay likes how Dean is relaxed with her mother because most people aren’t comfortable around Alzheimer’s patients.

Lindsay is a well-developed character and full of compassion even when Dean’s snotty mother and sister aren’t nice to her. She demonstrates Christian forgiveness even though she’s hurt by their nasty comments, and they act like she isn’t high enough in society for Dean.

Five Stars

Wonderful book_......great reading for the entire family.....a must read!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

This is a sweet Christian Romance and I totally enjoyed it

This is a sweet Christian Romance and I totally enjoyed it. Dean, a wealthy man who owns a corporation learns what Christian values really mean from his secretary Lindsey. The conversations between the two help to make this story come alive. I believe that a conversation between the two main characters brings a story to life and helps you to understand who they are. She is a devout Christian and Dean is learning what that is all about. I loved this sweet story.

This novel by Regina Andrews is a wonderful and heart-felt story about Lindsay Richardson and her struggle with caring for her mother who has Alzheimer's and Lindsay trying to hold a job too. Her and her sister, Meg, try to take care of their mother at home. Lindsay has taken a job at Copley Industries. She meets her boss, Dean, and the ball gets rolling in the romance department. Numerous incidents happen to bring them closer.

Dean's family background, personality clashes, supportive friends, and work responsibilities all figure into Lindsay's life. We get a look at Dean's character too as he develops and copes with the issues in his life.

There is a spiritual message here of having faith and relying on God to steer us in the right direction in our lives. Many of the happenings brought tears to my eyes.

Ms. Andrews' story telling powers came through with these emotional scenes.

I rate this story five stars and highly recommend it.

All 10 books are great reading!!

I have read all ten in this series, loved every book. Lost myself in the Egypt of the Pharaohs. If you love stories of ancient Egypt, you will love this whole series.

Honesty

Succeeding in life is built on trust. The Reconstruction Era found many unscrupulous characters taking unfair advantage of position and power, but fortunately, as Herb tells in this story, honesty and good character can and do carry folks to victory.

I couldn't put it down

I started reading this book and couldn't put it down. You never knew what was going to happen next. The characters were very interesting and believable. The authors description of locations made you feel like you were there in the thick of the action. It's an exciting and easy read that anyone could enjoy.
Can't wait to discover more of this authors work!

Reviewed By: =:0)

Mark one up for the good guys! This is a very fast moving, plot twisting, edge of the seat sort of read. Woodruff skillfully leads the reader through a chilling and ever-so-real crime story scripted in a contemporary setting of America's northern heartland.

The characterizations, the situations, the author's style, all casually center the reader amidst masterfully foreshadowed and dangerously developing circumstances. Though a rich palette of schemes and themes brilliantly develop, full and complete resolution of many interwoven and layered curiosities are settled.

This is a riveting novel of fear, courage, determination, triumph, thugs, creeps, cops, heros and yes love. Six of five stars is a more accurate rating.

Reviewed By: John P Riger

Could not put it down What a wonderful well written story. Fell in love with Lloyd. Thank you.

Reviewed By: Carter

This is a must read! Filled with wonderful characters and thrills and intrigue. I like how Mr. Woodruff can write a female character so well...capturing emotions and reactions so well. He makes you care what happens to Jill. And there is also plenty of humor to be had as well. I definitely recommend this book.

Reviewed By: Gurly

I couldn't put it down I started reading this book and couldn't put it down. You never knew what was going to happen next. The characters were very interesting and believable.

The author's description of locations made you feel like you were there in the thick of the action. It's an exciting and easy read that anyone could enjoy. Can't wait to discover more of this authors work! =:0)

Reviewed By: Hot Little DJ

Excellent book. Well written, and kept my interest, couldn't put it down. Hope to see another novel by this author.

Reviewed By: amp

Heart pounding What I liked the most was how it always kept me on the edge of my seat. I also liked the pace of it, it was never too fast or too slow for me. I think you could add a sequel to it.

Reviewed By: Natalie

“

A fun, whimsical ride

I enjoyed this little story very much. Written in the style of a fable or the like, the narration had an amusing and sometimes touching flavour. A great way to put a smile on your face on the way to work. Five stars for the fun idea.

Kindle Customer ”

Excellent Cozy Mystery Marielle Jones is in the hospital recovering from a bad car accident AND a failed romance when she is offered a job as a driver for a grandmother and her two grandchildren. The offer comes from Howard, a smooth super-salesman who won't take no for an answer, and raises a number of questions:

Why would he want to hire a stranger who just totaled her car as a driver? Why couldn't the grandmother drive? Marielle had just arrived in Redding, California; how did he know so much about her? Who was Arthur, and how did he die? Most puzzling: who were the young children - the niece and nephew - how did they fit into the scenario, and where were their parents?

Including a tour of the scenic and historic Oregon countryside, a colorful and well-drawn cast of characters, a gripping mystery, some mangled bodies, well-placed clues, danger, romance and intrigue, this Cozy mystery is not to be missed!

Reviewed By: Rita W

A great, cozy read! This is a fun, interesting story that unfolds with each page and kept me guessing until the end. I didn't want to put it down.

The likeable characters visit campgrounds across Oregon. As an Oregon native, it made me feel like I was there again, reliving many good times. I felt like I was going along with Marielle and her unusual camping partners, and going through their adventures right along with them. I strongly recommend this book and have told everyone I know that they will love it as much as I did!

Reviewed By: Penny Hendrickson

Need more like this We have visited the Northwest many times. I am familiar with all the locations the author writes about. I loved this story. It has charming humor, clever mystery and well developed and interesting characters. I hope hope she write more like this. Great fun and kept me very interested.

Reviewed By: bama

Fast-Paced Mystery a Good Read This is a fast-paced, well-written cozy mystery that takes place in the Pacific Northwest. The author has done meticulous research on the sites mentioned in the book, has developed likeable, sympathetic characters, and has woven a page-turner story. I recommend this book.

Reviewed By: Heidi M. Thomas, Author of Cowgirl Dreams