Kristy McCaffrey's Blog: Author Kristy McCaffrey - Posts Tagged "marcy-waldenville"
Reading Recommendations
All Reviews by Kristy McCaffrey
Fluency
by
Jennifer Foehner Wells
For 60 years, NASA has been watching a derelict alien spacecraft drifting in the asteroid belt near Mars. When a mission is finally ready to make first contact, Dr. Jane Holloway—a linguist—is recruited to join the team of pilots, engineers and a doctor. When they finally reach the ship, labeled the Target, they find it deserted except for an entity that can communicate telepathically. Jane is the only one open to such contact and the crew soon becomes suspicious of her mental health. Dr. Alan Bergen, however, does believe her and attempts to aid her in understanding what happened to the race of beings on the spacecraft that were lost in a catastrophic incident. This is a fast-paced story filled with just enough science to satisfy the diehard sci-fi fans alongside a compelling romance between Jane and Bergen. I couldn’t put it down!
* * * *
The Comanchero's Bride
by
Kaye Spencer
Elizabeth White, heiress to a sizable fortune, is living in the wilds of Texas. Her family hopes to make her miserable enough to return home and marry the man they’ve chosen. Instead, Elizabeth finds a life with purpose and also meets the man of her heart, an ex-outlaw named Mingo Valderas. They soon become separated and she finds herself in Denver society with Grayson Beal, the detestable man she was supposed to wed. He won’t let her go—her family ties, social standing, and money will all but ensure his bid for the presidency. When Elizabeth flees Colorado to be with Mingo, they must make their way to Mexico staying as hidden as possible. This requires traversing ancient trails frequented by the Comanchero, men who live on the outside of the law. And Mingo is just such a man.
This tale has a strong heroine with a good heart and a hero determined to redeem himself for the woman he loves. Their love story will leave you longing for a happy ending. Beal is a richly-drawn and despicable villain, the historical details are superb, and the writing flawless. Ms. Spencer has outdone herself once again. If you’re looking for a gritty western with romance and valor, don’t miss this one!
* * * *
Tempt Fortune
by
Hebby Roman
In this historical romance, Angelina Herrera has fled Cuba to Key West in the hopes of forging an independent life free of a man’s dictates. Her plan is to build a cigar factory and support herself. Financial circumstances, however, force her into marriage with the enigmatic Alejandro Estava. Carrying scars from a fire that killed his wife and child, he is unrecognizable to Angelina and hides the fact that they had known one another many years prior. That he has long loved her only fuels his efforts to protect her from an alliance with an unscrupulous man. As a counterpoint to their romance, the story also showcases Angelina’s new friend, Destiny, and her courtship with Nathan Rodgers, a Navy captain.
Ms. Roman has written a lush and evocative tale, weaving in Cuban culture and history along with the early days of Key West society. Both heroes are swoon-worthy, the heroines are spunky and stubborn, and the love scenes steamy. It’s everything a romance should be and more. A wonderful read!
* * * *
Hot Work in Fry Pan Gulch
by
Jacquie Rogers
If you enjoy westerns and humor, then this is the book for you. Honey Beaulieu is full of grit, determination and sass—I guarantee you’ll fall in love with her. Growing up in a whorehouse owned by her mama, Honey is determined to not pursue the same line of work. Fortunately, her pa makes a living hunting bounties, and Honey shows a particular knack for it. She lands a job as Fry Pan Gulch’s deputy marshal, much to the chagrin of the men around her. You’ll cheer her on as she sets out to prove she has what it takes. When she meets handsome U.S. deputy marshal Sam Lancaster, a stubborn mule and a pickle barrel will have you laughing out loud. Ms. Rogers is one of the best western writers out there today and this book proves her talent once again. I thoroughly enjoyed it!
* * * *
Home Fires
by
Kirsten Lynn
With the Civil War ended, Cord Matthews heads to Montana Territory to begin anew. Believing his one and only true love is dead, he starts over but is never free from the heartbreak. Unbeknownst to him, Olivia Bartlett has survived, and through a twist of fate they find one another. While they both are determined to pick up their relationship from where it ended, they experience the usual growing pains of any couple learning to love and live together. When an unresolved issue from their past finds them, they must fight to see it through.
This tale is richly imagined, and Cord and Olivia are both headstrong and desperate for one another. Ms. Lynn has crafted a gripping romance on the western frontier. I highly recommend.
* * * *
No Greater Glory
by
Cindy Nord
This wonderful Civil War romance will have you turning the pages deep into the night. Widowed plantation owner Emaline McDaniels must contend with the sudden appearance of a bevy of Union soldiers determined to use her property as a stopover as they move south. Colonel Reece Cutteridge—commanding and resolute—finds himself falling under Emaline’s spell despite every effort otherwise. Against the backdrop of heartbreaking atrocities, they come together in a blaze of passion and need. Ms. Nord handles the details of the time period with ease, but it’s the tension and love between Emaline and Reece that will leave the most lasting impression. I truly enjoyed this book.
* * * *
The 5th Wave
by
Rick Yancey
After seeing the movie, I was hooked so I picked up the second book to learn what happens to all these great characters. After one chapter, however, I knew I’d need to read the first book. And I’m so glad I did! The adage is true here—the book is far better than the movie—but I’m stunned at the depth in the novel that was eliminated in translating it to the screen. So do yourself a favor and read this. I found the characters of Cassie, Evan and Ben engaging and compelling as they navigate the world after an alien invasion. With each successive wave, the enemy eliminates more and more humans, and the question, of course, is: What will be the 5th wave? The answer is quite clever and horrifying at the same time. I couldn't put this one down.
* * * *
Walking the Gobi: A 1,600-Mile Trek Across A Desert Of Hope And Despair
by
Helen Thayer
Ms. Thayer and her husband walked across the Gobi Desert, which sits on the border of Mongolia and China. This is all the more audacious because they’re both in their 60’s and 70’s. They plan and practice for the trek and are by no means unexperienced at a trip like this. But the unexpected does arise and Thayer shares these incidents with candor. I thoroughly enjoyed this book, feeling as if I’d made the journey with them. I’ll always think of their two camels—Tom and Jerry—with fondness.
* * * *
Look What The Wind Blew In
by
Ann Charles
In this romantic mystery, Dr. Angelica Garcia is searching ancient Mayan ruins looking for evidence to vindicate her mother’s reputation, who is deceased. By her side is her eagle-eyed father and a dedicated crew. When photojournalist Quint Parker arrives under the pretense of writing a story about the dig site, Angelica finds herself both suspicious and reluctantly attracted to the handsome reporter. Throw in an ex-husband trying to win her back and a Mayan curse creating paranoia and fear among her workers, and Angelica has her hands full. This story has it all—suspense, steamy romance, and an intriguing mystery involving the Maya culture. I couldn’t put it down! Another winner by Ann Charles.
* * * *
Race To Tibet
by
Sophie Schiller
In 1889, French explorer Gabriel Bonvalot set out to reach Tibet. At that time, no European had ever set foot in Lhasa. He was determined to enter the well-guarded city and meet the Dalai Lama himself. To gain the funds to go, he’s forced to bring along Prince Henri d’Orléans, a pretender to the French throne and a scandalous playboy. Joining them in a large caravan is Camille Dancourt, a young French woman searching for her husband who disappeared in Tibet and was never heard from again.
Ms. Schiller has taken historical fact and woven an exciting adventure story around it. Traversing through Russia and the Tian Shan and Atlyn Tagh Mountains, the expedition is plagued by harsh weather, altitude sickness, hostile Tibetans, and Chinese Mandarins who control all travel within the region. While Bonvalot’s ideals are lofty, he’s forced into thievery and violence to survive. It’s a harrowing journey, and there’s no doubt these early explorers were hardy souls. Prince Henri and Camille are not, but watching them grow and adapt throughout the trek adds a counterpoint to Bonvalot. There is also a side story involving a Buddhist princess that offers insight into the culture of Tibet. Today, we take for granted that westerners may enter the Himalaya region easily, but without men like Bonvalot this might never have come to be. It’s a fascinating tale of determination chasing after mythology. I won’t spoil the story by telling you whether Bonvalot reaches his destination or not, but rather I encourage you to immerse yourself in this thrilling adventure into another land and time.
* * * *
Father of the Bride
by
Marcy Waldenville
A wonderfully romantic read about wedding planner Kate Whitney and her ex-husband’s lawyer, Alex Blessing. When Kate must plan Amanda Blessing’s wedding—Alex’s daughter—she’s thrown together with a man she had learned to despise for taking everything from her in her divorce. To Alex’s confusion, he can’t remember Kate although he’s certain they’ve met. Their growing attraction will have you turning the pages until the end. A heartwarming love story with just the right amount of sexy.
* * * *
My Mozart
by
Juliet Waldron
This is the first book I’ve read about Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and it held me captivated from the start. Told from the perspective of Nanina Gottlieb, who first meets Mozart as a young girl, the story follows her childhood adoration of the musical genius to her passionate love for a man who will forever break her heart. Mozart is 18 years her senior, married, a womanizer and an alcoholic. But all these facts fall to the wayside to Gottlieb’s worship of the man. Rich with historic detail of 18th century Vienna and intricate aspects of Mozart’s famous compositions, it’s easy to fall under the same spell as Gottlieb. She knows loving Mozart will ultimately ruin her but she can’t stop her feelings. An accomplished singer, dancer and actress, she makes a living often reserved for unreputable women. Mozart dies when she is 17 and soon after she discovers she is pregnant. She comes to learn of at least two other illegitimate children Mozart had left behind. That the famous maestro didn’t love her exclusively causes deep pain, but until the end of her life she cannot hate him. It’s a heartbreaking tale. While certain parts of the story are no doubt fiction, it’s a testament to Waldron that there are no stumbling blocks in the presentation. An amazing book by a talented author.
* * * *
Alaina Claiborne: A British Agent Novel
by
MK McClintock
Alaina Claiborne is a strong-willed and likeable heroine, growing up in the English countryside with her aunt and uncle after witnessing the murder of her parents and a family friend when she was young. The details of that event, however, have been buried in her mind. When she meets her new neighbor, Tristan Sheffield, the attraction is immediate. Tristan is the British Agent of the title and is in search of the man who not only killed his father but also possibly Alaina’s parents as well. As the mystery unfolds in London and Virginia, Alaina’s memory slowly surfaces. She and Tristan marry under the pretense of protecting her but it soon becomes a true relationship.
Alaina Claiborne is filled with rich historical detail, a handsome and dashing hero, additional dashing fellow agents who will no doubt appear in future books, and a heroine with a sense of humor (she’s kidnapped no less than three times). An engaging tale filled with romance and intrigue!
* * * *
A Dip In The Ocean: Rowing Solo Across The Indian
by
Sarah Outen
A wonderful account of Sarah’s solo trek to row the Indian Ocean. She succeeded, becoming the first woman to do so, along with being the youngest. Her prose is immediate and invites you to be right along with her, from the decision to do it in the first place to the deep grief over the sudden loss of her father before the journey begins. You’ll feel as if you rowed the entire thing with her. I appreciated her focus on details—what her daily routine was like, how much she loved seeing the albatrosses that passed by, and her inability to ration her chocolate. You can’t help but admire her tenacity.
Fluency
by
Jennifer Foehner Wells
For 60 years, NASA has been watching a derelict alien spacecraft drifting in the asteroid belt near Mars. When a mission is finally ready to make first contact, Dr. Jane Holloway—a linguist—is recruited to join the team of pilots, engineers and a doctor. When they finally reach the ship, labeled the Target, they find it deserted except for an entity that can communicate telepathically. Jane is the only one open to such contact and the crew soon becomes suspicious of her mental health. Dr. Alan Bergen, however, does believe her and attempts to aid her in understanding what happened to the race of beings on the spacecraft that were lost in a catastrophic incident. This is a fast-paced story filled with just enough science to satisfy the diehard sci-fi fans alongside a compelling romance between Jane and Bergen. I couldn’t put it down!
* * * *
The Comanchero's Bride
by
Kaye Spencer
Elizabeth White, heiress to a sizable fortune, is living in the wilds of Texas. Her family hopes to make her miserable enough to return home and marry the man they’ve chosen. Instead, Elizabeth finds a life with purpose and also meets the man of her heart, an ex-outlaw named Mingo Valderas. They soon become separated and she finds herself in Denver society with Grayson Beal, the detestable man she was supposed to wed. He won’t let her go—her family ties, social standing, and money will all but ensure his bid for the presidency. When Elizabeth flees Colorado to be with Mingo, they must make their way to Mexico staying as hidden as possible. This requires traversing ancient trails frequented by the Comanchero, men who live on the outside of the law. And Mingo is just such a man.
This tale has a strong heroine with a good heart and a hero determined to redeem himself for the woman he loves. Their love story will leave you longing for a happy ending. Beal is a richly-drawn and despicable villain, the historical details are superb, and the writing flawless. Ms. Spencer has outdone herself once again. If you’re looking for a gritty western with romance and valor, don’t miss this one!
* * * *
Tempt Fortune
by
Hebby Roman
In this historical romance, Angelina Herrera has fled Cuba to Key West in the hopes of forging an independent life free of a man’s dictates. Her plan is to build a cigar factory and support herself. Financial circumstances, however, force her into marriage with the enigmatic Alejandro Estava. Carrying scars from a fire that killed his wife and child, he is unrecognizable to Angelina and hides the fact that they had known one another many years prior. That he has long loved her only fuels his efforts to protect her from an alliance with an unscrupulous man. As a counterpoint to their romance, the story also showcases Angelina’s new friend, Destiny, and her courtship with Nathan Rodgers, a Navy captain.
Ms. Roman has written a lush and evocative tale, weaving in Cuban culture and history along with the early days of Key West society. Both heroes are swoon-worthy, the heroines are spunky and stubborn, and the love scenes steamy. It’s everything a romance should be and more. A wonderful read!
* * * *
Hot Work in Fry Pan Gulch
by
Jacquie Rogers
If you enjoy westerns and humor, then this is the book for you. Honey Beaulieu is full of grit, determination and sass—I guarantee you’ll fall in love with her. Growing up in a whorehouse owned by her mama, Honey is determined to not pursue the same line of work. Fortunately, her pa makes a living hunting bounties, and Honey shows a particular knack for it. She lands a job as Fry Pan Gulch’s deputy marshal, much to the chagrin of the men around her. You’ll cheer her on as she sets out to prove she has what it takes. When she meets handsome U.S. deputy marshal Sam Lancaster, a stubborn mule and a pickle barrel will have you laughing out loud. Ms. Rogers is one of the best western writers out there today and this book proves her talent once again. I thoroughly enjoyed it!
* * * *
Home Fires
by
Kirsten Lynn
With the Civil War ended, Cord Matthews heads to Montana Territory to begin anew. Believing his one and only true love is dead, he starts over but is never free from the heartbreak. Unbeknownst to him, Olivia Bartlett has survived, and through a twist of fate they find one another. While they both are determined to pick up their relationship from where it ended, they experience the usual growing pains of any couple learning to love and live together. When an unresolved issue from their past finds them, they must fight to see it through.
This tale is richly imagined, and Cord and Olivia are both headstrong and desperate for one another. Ms. Lynn has crafted a gripping romance on the western frontier. I highly recommend.
* * * *
No Greater Glory
by
Cindy Nord
This wonderful Civil War romance will have you turning the pages deep into the night. Widowed plantation owner Emaline McDaniels must contend with the sudden appearance of a bevy of Union soldiers determined to use her property as a stopover as they move south. Colonel Reece Cutteridge—commanding and resolute—finds himself falling under Emaline’s spell despite every effort otherwise. Against the backdrop of heartbreaking atrocities, they come together in a blaze of passion and need. Ms. Nord handles the details of the time period with ease, but it’s the tension and love between Emaline and Reece that will leave the most lasting impression. I truly enjoyed this book.
* * * *
The 5th Wave
by
Rick Yancey
After seeing the movie, I was hooked so I picked up the second book to learn what happens to all these great characters. After one chapter, however, I knew I’d need to read the first book. And I’m so glad I did! The adage is true here—the book is far better than the movie—but I’m stunned at the depth in the novel that was eliminated in translating it to the screen. So do yourself a favor and read this. I found the characters of Cassie, Evan and Ben engaging and compelling as they navigate the world after an alien invasion. With each successive wave, the enemy eliminates more and more humans, and the question, of course, is: What will be the 5th wave? The answer is quite clever and horrifying at the same time. I couldn't put this one down.
* * * *
Walking the Gobi: A 1,600-Mile Trek Across A Desert Of Hope And Despair
by
Helen Thayer
Ms. Thayer and her husband walked across the Gobi Desert, which sits on the border of Mongolia and China. This is all the more audacious because they’re both in their 60’s and 70’s. They plan and practice for the trek and are by no means unexperienced at a trip like this. But the unexpected does arise and Thayer shares these incidents with candor. I thoroughly enjoyed this book, feeling as if I’d made the journey with them. I’ll always think of their two camels—Tom and Jerry—with fondness.
* * * *
Look What The Wind Blew In
by
Ann Charles
In this romantic mystery, Dr. Angelica Garcia is searching ancient Mayan ruins looking for evidence to vindicate her mother’s reputation, who is deceased. By her side is her eagle-eyed father and a dedicated crew. When photojournalist Quint Parker arrives under the pretense of writing a story about the dig site, Angelica finds herself both suspicious and reluctantly attracted to the handsome reporter. Throw in an ex-husband trying to win her back and a Mayan curse creating paranoia and fear among her workers, and Angelica has her hands full. This story has it all—suspense, steamy romance, and an intriguing mystery involving the Maya culture. I couldn’t put it down! Another winner by Ann Charles.
* * * *
Race To Tibet
by
Sophie Schiller
In 1889, French explorer Gabriel Bonvalot set out to reach Tibet. At that time, no European had ever set foot in Lhasa. He was determined to enter the well-guarded city and meet the Dalai Lama himself. To gain the funds to go, he’s forced to bring along Prince Henri d’Orléans, a pretender to the French throne and a scandalous playboy. Joining them in a large caravan is Camille Dancourt, a young French woman searching for her husband who disappeared in Tibet and was never heard from again.
Ms. Schiller has taken historical fact and woven an exciting adventure story around it. Traversing through Russia and the Tian Shan and Atlyn Tagh Mountains, the expedition is plagued by harsh weather, altitude sickness, hostile Tibetans, and Chinese Mandarins who control all travel within the region. While Bonvalot’s ideals are lofty, he’s forced into thievery and violence to survive. It’s a harrowing journey, and there’s no doubt these early explorers were hardy souls. Prince Henri and Camille are not, but watching them grow and adapt throughout the trek adds a counterpoint to Bonvalot. There is also a side story involving a Buddhist princess that offers insight into the culture of Tibet. Today, we take for granted that westerners may enter the Himalaya region easily, but without men like Bonvalot this might never have come to be. It’s a fascinating tale of determination chasing after mythology. I won’t spoil the story by telling you whether Bonvalot reaches his destination or not, but rather I encourage you to immerse yourself in this thrilling adventure into another land and time.
* * * *
Father of the Bride
by
Marcy Waldenville
A wonderfully romantic read about wedding planner Kate Whitney and her ex-husband’s lawyer, Alex Blessing. When Kate must plan Amanda Blessing’s wedding—Alex’s daughter—she’s thrown together with a man she had learned to despise for taking everything from her in her divorce. To Alex’s confusion, he can’t remember Kate although he’s certain they’ve met. Their growing attraction will have you turning the pages until the end. A heartwarming love story with just the right amount of sexy.
* * * *
My Mozart
by
Juliet Waldron
This is the first book I’ve read about Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and it held me captivated from the start. Told from the perspective of Nanina Gottlieb, who first meets Mozart as a young girl, the story follows her childhood adoration of the musical genius to her passionate love for a man who will forever break her heart. Mozart is 18 years her senior, married, a womanizer and an alcoholic. But all these facts fall to the wayside to Gottlieb’s worship of the man. Rich with historic detail of 18th century Vienna and intricate aspects of Mozart’s famous compositions, it’s easy to fall under the same spell as Gottlieb. She knows loving Mozart will ultimately ruin her but she can’t stop her feelings. An accomplished singer, dancer and actress, she makes a living often reserved for unreputable women. Mozart dies when she is 17 and soon after she discovers she is pregnant. She comes to learn of at least two other illegitimate children Mozart had left behind. That the famous maestro didn’t love her exclusively causes deep pain, but until the end of her life she cannot hate him. It’s a heartbreaking tale. While certain parts of the story are no doubt fiction, it’s a testament to Waldron that there are no stumbling blocks in the presentation. An amazing book by a talented author.
* * * *
Alaina Claiborne: A British Agent Novel
by
MK McClintock
Alaina Claiborne is a strong-willed and likeable heroine, growing up in the English countryside with her aunt and uncle after witnessing the murder of her parents and a family friend when she was young. The details of that event, however, have been buried in her mind. When she meets her new neighbor, Tristan Sheffield, the attraction is immediate. Tristan is the British Agent of the title and is in search of the man who not only killed his father but also possibly Alaina’s parents as well. As the mystery unfolds in London and Virginia, Alaina’s memory slowly surfaces. She and Tristan marry under the pretense of protecting her but it soon becomes a true relationship.
Alaina Claiborne is filled with rich historical detail, a handsome and dashing hero, additional dashing fellow agents who will no doubt appear in future books, and a heroine with a sense of humor (she’s kidnapped no less than three times). An engaging tale filled with romance and intrigue!
* * * *
A Dip In The Ocean: Rowing Solo Across The Indian
by
Sarah Outen
A wonderful account of Sarah’s solo trek to row the Indian Ocean. She succeeded, becoming the first woman to do so, along with being the youngest. Her prose is immediate and invites you to be right along with her, from the decision to do it in the first place to the deep grief over the sudden loss of her father before the journey begins. You’ll feel as if you rowed the entire thing with her. I appreciated her focus on details—what her daily routine was like, how much she loved seeing the albatrosses that passed by, and her inability to ration her chocolate. You can’t help but admire her tenacity.
Reading Recommendations
All Reviews by Kristy McCaffrey
Wool
by Hugh Howey
In this epic dystopian novel, we’re introduced to a world in which mankind is now living underground in a silo. Memories of why or how it came to be are lost, and life in Silo 18 is rigorously controlled by the threat of ‘cleaning’, a punishment for those who break the rules. When a member of society commits a crime, they are sent outside, to an earth filled with poisonous air and unlivable conditions. Despite being outfitted in a protective suit, cleaners ultimately die, but not before they’re expected to clean the viewfinders with a strip of wool, to ensure that those inside can still see the world outside. While the novel follows many characters, at the center is Juliette, a woman who works as a mechanic deep in the bowels of the silo. This is her story, of her rise to the upper levels as the new sheriff, and the realization that there is much more than just the confined world in which they all reside. A well-written and complex tale of fear and the suppression of ideas, brainwashing, and, ultimately, the will to live. I was enthralled.
*****
Fire Eyes
by Cheryl Pierson
Marshal Kaed Turner is left at Jessica’s doorstep near death. As she nurses him back to health, they soon fall hard for one another. But the renegade band of men perpetrating heinous crimes must be stopped, and soon Kaed and a band of marshals must hunt them down, leaving Jessica and a child not her own exposed. Ms. Pierson has crafted a deeply romantic tale with one of the most vile villains I’ve ever come across. Andrew Fallon is crazy, and you’ll keep reading to the end—despite the requisite happy-ending of a romance novel—to know exactly how he gets his just rewards, as well as be assured of Kaed and Jessica’s future. Great historical details and a steamy love story will have you reading into the night. A wonderful read!
*****
Come Back
by Melissa Maygrove
Rebecca Garvey is on a wagon train bound for California when she is inadvertently left behind in the wilderness of New Mexico Territory. She mistakenly believes that no one searched for her and, as days turn into months, she remains in the wilderness and fends for herself rather than attempting to make her way to a town. When she comes across an injured man, she’s compelled to help him, but in doing so she can no longer hide from the pain of her presumed abandonment.
Seth Emerson is battling demons of his own, but he becomes determined to reunite Rebecca with her family, along with the man to whom she’s betrothed. During the journey, affection turns to love between Seth and Rebecca, and they must both grapple with doing the right thing.
This is a quiet book with a slow-building romance. Both Seth and Rebecca are stubborn in their misguided decisions regarding the course of their lives, and Ms. Maygrove beautifully handles their blossoming maturity. Grab a cup of tea and a blanket and settle in for a romance filled with grit, sweetness, and passion. You won’t be disappointed.
*****
Miles From Nowhere
by Barbara Savage
In the late 1970’s, Barbara and her husband bicycled around the world. This book is still readable today and offers amazing insights into the cultures of other countries (Egypt was especially dangerous and jaw-dropping in their treatment of the couple) as well as the U.S. This journey was, in some ways, beyond comprehension. They rode a total of 23,000 miles over the course of two years through places such as the U.K., India, and Tibet. Barbara is a wonderful writer. A bittersweet endnote was her death in a cycling accident near her home in California just before the publication of the book. Hers is a voice lost much too soon.
*****
Bliss
An Anthology of Novellas
by S.K. McClafferty, Marcy Waldenville, Jamie Denton, Kathleen Shoop, and J.D. Wylde
This wonderful collection of stories will keep you captivated from the start. Each centers around Bliss, a sprawling plantation home located in North Carolina.
In S.K. McClafferty’s A Long Road Home, Livie Harrington must confront her husband, a northerner who left her to fight in the Civil War and now wants her back.
Marcy Waldenville’s The Healing Garden brings together newly pregnant Jane Harrington, widowed in the sinking of the Titanic, and Irishman Brennan Brown, on the run from aiding his brothers escape their crimes.
Jamie Denton’s Spellbound tells the steamy, romantic story of Colin Harrington, injured in World War II, and Mary Elizabeth Callahan, also Irish. She becomes housekeeper at Bliss, tending both the house and the reclusive Colin himself.
Kathleen Shoop’s Home Again finds April Harrington on the run from a ditched wedding. At Bliss, her family home, she encounters childhood friend Hale Abercrombie, suffering PTSD from Vietnam and haunted by the death of April’s brother.
And J.D. Wylde’s Beyond the Checkered Flag brings the action to modern day and Nascar-driver Bobby Wayne. This story doesn’t feature a Harrington, but Wayne buys the house for his beloved wife Lauren, whom he’s trying to win back after an estrangement. Their reunion at Bliss sends sparks flying as they hash out their differences and grievances. The rating for this one is definitely hot.
Each story is vivid in historical and modern details and will have you wanting to visit Bliss yourself. The characters come to life, making you fall in love with each and every couple, rooting for them to make it. A wonderful collection by five talented authors.
*****
Yellowstone Heart Song
by Peggy L. Henderson
Aimee Donovan is a modern-day nurse transported to 1810 Yellowstone. Once there, she meets trapper Daniel Osborne. Aimee’s curiosity and delight in experiencing the past is soon overshadowed by the harsh realities of the land and the people in it. The growing relationship between her and Daniel fills the first half of the story, while the second half deals with the dilemma of Aimee returning to her own time after developing strong feelings for the rugged mountain man. This is a romance novel in the truest sense, so a happily-ever-after is guaranteed, but I was nevertheless spellbound until the end. These characters will grab a hold of you. This is a fresh take on time-travel romance, and Ms. Henderson’s descriptions of a historical Yellowstone will make you yearn to see it for yourself. A heartfelt and engrossing journey of a romance for the ages.
*****
The Atlantis Gene
by A.G. Riddle
In this fast-paced thriller, Dr. Kate Warner is seeking a cure for autism when she is attacked and two of her young patients—just children—are abducted. She soon finds herself immersed in circumstances both dangerous and unbelievable. David Vale is a covert operative who has uncovered clues to the evolution of mankind and a current threat that could wipe out the human race. Kate’s research holds the key. This story is a blend of action-adventure and science fiction wrapped around historical facts from World War I and II. There’s an alien race, hidden artifacts, evil henchmen, and romance. It won't disappoint.
*****
Round The Bend
by Rain Trueax
In 1851, childhood friends Amy Stevens and Matthew Kane travel with their families in a large wagon train bound for Oregon. Matt has long known he loves Amy, but she’s only ever harbored brotherly feelings for him. As the massive trek begins, Matt makes his intentions known, but Amy rebuffs him. However, once the seeds of awareness are planted, Amy discovers that her attachment to Matt gradually begins to change. When Matt’s vengeful brother starts trouble, Amy is forced to hide the budding relationship because Matt insists on protecting her reputation. With compelling and likeable main characters, colorful and well-drawn secondary characters, and immersive descriptions of the Oregon Trail, Ms.Trueax has crafted an epic novel that will pull you in, slowly but surely. You won’t soon forget Matt and Amy, or their bumpy path to a happily-ever-after.
*****
Higher Love: Skiing the Seven Summits
by Kit DesLauriers
Ms. DesLauriers is the first person to ski the highest summit on each continent, also known as the Seven Summits. In this revealing and compelling memoir, she shares her journey from inception to completion. The summits include Denali, Elbrus, Vinson Massif, Kosciuszko, Aconcagua, Kilimanjaro and Everest. Each presented unique challenges and skill sets, and yet she managed to finish within a two-year period. This is a wonderful read, offering insights into the mind of a woman who engages in dangerous pursuits while also detailing the risk minimization that she practices diligently. Still, the Everest portion will leave you dangling on the edge of your seat. I especially enjoyed the side-stories about her wolf dog. Well-written and fascinating, I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
*****
Deep
by James Nestor
This nonfiction book explores how humans interact with the ocean and the creatures within, and Nestor reveals some amazing insights. For instance, the human body is uniquely equipped to function underwater, with adaptations that can be triggered with proper training. He explores the world of freediving, both competitive (and the high rate of fatalities and mishaps) as well as people who use it to relate to the ocean and the creatures within in a more intimate way. The deeper he goes, the more we learn about renegade scientists who are trying to decipher cetacean language and the multitude of life at depths that never see any light. He also touches on deep sea heating vents and a very promising theory that life on earth began in these high-pressure, super-heated locations. Well-researched and highly personal, Deep will open your eyes to a world more vast than the one we currently know.
*****
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Wool
by Hugh Howey
In this epic dystopian novel, we’re introduced to a world in which mankind is now living underground in a silo. Memories of why or how it came to be are lost, and life in Silo 18 is rigorously controlled by the threat of ‘cleaning’, a punishment for those who break the rules. When a member of society commits a crime, they are sent outside, to an earth filled with poisonous air and unlivable conditions. Despite being outfitted in a protective suit, cleaners ultimately die, but not before they’re expected to clean the viewfinders with a strip of wool, to ensure that those inside can still see the world outside. While the novel follows many characters, at the center is Juliette, a woman who works as a mechanic deep in the bowels of the silo. This is her story, of her rise to the upper levels as the new sheriff, and the realization that there is much more than just the confined world in which they all reside. A well-written and complex tale of fear and the suppression of ideas, brainwashing, and, ultimately, the will to live. I was enthralled.
*****
Fire Eyes
by Cheryl Pierson
Marshal Kaed Turner is left at Jessica’s doorstep near death. As she nurses him back to health, they soon fall hard for one another. But the renegade band of men perpetrating heinous crimes must be stopped, and soon Kaed and a band of marshals must hunt them down, leaving Jessica and a child not her own exposed. Ms. Pierson has crafted a deeply romantic tale with one of the most vile villains I’ve ever come across. Andrew Fallon is crazy, and you’ll keep reading to the end—despite the requisite happy-ending of a romance novel—to know exactly how he gets his just rewards, as well as be assured of Kaed and Jessica’s future. Great historical details and a steamy love story will have you reading into the night. A wonderful read!
*****
Come Back
by Melissa Maygrove
Rebecca Garvey is on a wagon train bound for California when she is inadvertently left behind in the wilderness of New Mexico Territory. She mistakenly believes that no one searched for her and, as days turn into months, she remains in the wilderness and fends for herself rather than attempting to make her way to a town. When she comes across an injured man, she’s compelled to help him, but in doing so she can no longer hide from the pain of her presumed abandonment.
Seth Emerson is battling demons of his own, but he becomes determined to reunite Rebecca with her family, along with the man to whom she’s betrothed. During the journey, affection turns to love between Seth and Rebecca, and they must both grapple with doing the right thing.
This is a quiet book with a slow-building romance. Both Seth and Rebecca are stubborn in their misguided decisions regarding the course of their lives, and Ms. Maygrove beautifully handles their blossoming maturity. Grab a cup of tea and a blanket and settle in for a romance filled with grit, sweetness, and passion. You won’t be disappointed.
*****
Miles From Nowhere
by Barbara Savage
In the late 1970’s, Barbara and her husband bicycled around the world. This book is still readable today and offers amazing insights into the cultures of other countries (Egypt was especially dangerous and jaw-dropping in their treatment of the couple) as well as the U.S. This journey was, in some ways, beyond comprehension. They rode a total of 23,000 miles over the course of two years through places such as the U.K., India, and Tibet. Barbara is a wonderful writer. A bittersweet endnote was her death in a cycling accident near her home in California just before the publication of the book. Hers is a voice lost much too soon.
*****
Bliss
An Anthology of Novellas
by S.K. McClafferty, Marcy Waldenville, Jamie Denton, Kathleen Shoop, and J.D. Wylde
This wonderful collection of stories will keep you captivated from the start. Each centers around Bliss, a sprawling plantation home located in North Carolina.
In S.K. McClafferty’s A Long Road Home, Livie Harrington must confront her husband, a northerner who left her to fight in the Civil War and now wants her back.
Marcy Waldenville’s The Healing Garden brings together newly pregnant Jane Harrington, widowed in the sinking of the Titanic, and Irishman Brennan Brown, on the run from aiding his brothers escape their crimes.
Jamie Denton’s Spellbound tells the steamy, romantic story of Colin Harrington, injured in World War II, and Mary Elizabeth Callahan, also Irish. She becomes housekeeper at Bliss, tending both the house and the reclusive Colin himself.
Kathleen Shoop’s Home Again finds April Harrington on the run from a ditched wedding. At Bliss, her family home, she encounters childhood friend Hale Abercrombie, suffering PTSD from Vietnam and haunted by the death of April’s brother.
And J.D. Wylde’s Beyond the Checkered Flag brings the action to modern day and Nascar-driver Bobby Wayne. This story doesn’t feature a Harrington, but Wayne buys the house for his beloved wife Lauren, whom he’s trying to win back after an estrangement. Their reunion at Bliss sends sparks flying as they hash out their differences and grievances. The rating for this one is definitely hot.
Each story is vivid in historical and modern details and will have you wanting to visit Bliss yourself. The characters come to life, making you fall in love with each and every couple, rooting for them to make it. A wonderful collection by five talented authors.
*****
Yellowstone Heart Song
by Peggy L. Henderson
Aimee Donovan is a modern-day nurse transported to 1810 Yellowstone. Once there, she meets trapper Daniel Osborne. Aimee’s curiosity and delight in experiencing the past is soon overshadowed by the harsh realities of the land and the people in it. The growing relationship between her and Daniel fills the first half of the story, while the second half deals with the dilemma of Aimee returning to her own time after developing strong feelings for the rugged mountain man. This is a romance novel in the truest sense, so a happily-ever-after is guaranteed, but I was nevertheless spellbound until the end. These characters will grab a hold of you. This is a fresh take on time-travel romance, and Ms. Henderson’s descriptions of a historical Yellowstone will make you yearn to see it for yourself. A heartfelt and engrossing journey of a romance for the ages.
*****
The Atlantis Gene
by A.G. Riddle
In this fast-paced thriller, Dr. Kate Warner is seeking a cure for autism when she is attacked and two of her young patients—just children—are abducted. She soon finds herself immersed in circumstances both dangerous and unbelievable. David Vale is a covert operative who has uncovered clues to the evolution of mankind and a current threat that could wipe out the human race. Kate’s research holds the key. This story is a blend of action-adventure and science fiction wrapped around historical facts from World War I and II. There’s an alien race, hidden artifacts, evil henchmen, and romance. It won't disappoint.
*****
Round The Bend
by Rain Trueax
In 1851, childhood friends Amy Stevens and Matthew Kane travel with their families in a large wagon train bound for Oregon. Matt has long known he loves Amy, but she’s only ever harbored brotherly feelings for him. As the massive trek begins, Matt makes his intentions known, but Amy rebuffs him. However, once the seeds of awareness are planted, Amy discovers that her attachment to Matt gradually begins to change. When Matt’s vengeful brother starts trouble, Amy is forced to hide the budding relationship because Matt insists on protecting her reputation. With compelling and likeable main characters, colorful and well-drawn secondary characters, and immersive descriptions of the Oregon Trail, Ms.Trueax has crafted an epic novel that will pull you in, slowly but surely. You won’t soon forget Matt and Amy, or their bumpy path to a happily-ever-after.
*****
Higher Love: Skiing the Seven Summits
by Kit DesLauriers
Ms. DesLauriers is the first person to ski the highest summit on each continent, also known as the Seven Summits. In this revealing and compelling memoir, she shares her journey from inception to completion. The summits include Denali, Elbrus, Vinson Massif, Kosciuszko, Aconcagua, Kilimanjaro and Everest. Each presented unique challenges and skill sets, and yet she managed to finish within a two-year period. This is a wonderful read, offering insights into the mind of a woman who engages in dangerous pursuits while also detailing the risk minimization that she practices diligently. Still, the Everest portion will leave you dangling on the edge of your seat. I especially enjoyed the side-stories about her wolf dog. Well-written and fascinating, I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
*****
Deep
by James Nestor
This nonfiction book explores how humans interact with the ocean and the creatures within, and Nestor reveals some amazing insights. For instance, the human body is uniquely equipped to function underwater, with adaptations that can be triggered with proper training. He explores the world of freediving, both competitive (and the high rate of fatalities and mishaps) as well as people who use it to relate to the ocean and the creatures within in a more intimate way. The deeper he goes, the more we learn about renegade scientists who are trying to decipher cetacean language and the multitude of life at depths that never see any light. He also touches on deep sea heating vents and a very promising theory that life on earth began in these high-pressure, super-heated locations. Well-researched and highly personal, Deep will open your eyes to a world more vast than the one we currently know.
*****
Connect with Kristy
Website
Blog ~ Pathways
Newsletter
Author Kristy McCaffrey
Kristy McCaffrey writes western historical and contemporary romances. She and her husband live in Arizona with their two dogs. Visit her online at kristymccaffrey.com.
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