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Love's Legacy
A collection of short stories by eleven leading romance writers features the work of Mary Balogh, Heather Graham, Virginia Henley, Penelope Neri, and Janelle Taylor.
441 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 1981
4 people are currently reading
539 people want to read
About the author
Madeline Baker
89 books289 followersMadeline Ruth was born on 1963 in California, where she raised. She married her high school sweetheart and they have three sons, all handsome enough to be cover models. Growing up, her favorite pastimes were going to the movies and going horseback riding on Saturday mornings at Griffith Park. Madeline has always been "horse happy." A horse was the one thing she asked for on every birthday and every Christmas. Many years later, that dream came true when she bought an Appaloosa mare named Candy—because she was so sweet. Madeline loves animals. Over the years, she's had numerous dogs, cats, fish, mice, hamsters, turtles and birds, and her horse, of course. The most exotic pet was a crocodile that belonged to one of her sons. Currently, she has a terribly spoiled Pomeranian named Teddi, six goldfish, a catfish, and a betta. When she's not writing, Madeline enjoys going to movies and the theater. Her favorite plays are The Phantom of the Opera, The Scarlet Pimpernel and her all-time fave, Beauty and the Beast. She also loves reading, going to lunch with her best friend, collecting Star Wars, The Phantom of the Opera and Beauty and the Beast memorabilia, and playing with the most beautiful, adorable, brilliant grandkids in the world.
Madeline started writing when her children were still at home, and she wrote for several years, finding time to write after her children were in bed and her husband was at work. In true cliché fashion, she wrote the books and put them under the bed, never telling anyone what she was doing, until one day she let a friend read one. Encouraged by her friend's comments, and armed with a copy of Writer's Market supplied by said friend, Madeline began sending out query letters. After six years and 31 rejections, Leisure Books bought Reckless Heart, and she's been writing ever since. After writing several Westerns, Madeline decided to try her hand at something else and wrote her first vampire romance. It was a short story titled "Masquerade" for an anthology. She loved writing that so much that she wrote her first full-length vampire romance, Embrace the Night, and thus Amanda Ashley was born. One of her dreams had been to write for Harlequin, and she accomplished that in 2003 with the publication of her Silhouette Romance novel, Dude Ranch Bride. Madeline loves to hear from her readers. You can reach her online at DarkWritr@aol.com or by mail at PO Box 1703, Whittier, CA 90609-1703.
Madeline started writing when her children were still at home, and she wrote for several years, finding time to write after her children were in bed and her husband was at work. In true cliché fashion, she wrote the books and put them under the bed, never telling anyone what she was doing, until one day she let a friend read one. Encouraged by her friend's comments, and armed with a copy of Writer's Market supplied by said friend, Madeline began sending out query letters. After six years and 31 rejections, Leisure Books bought Reckless Heart, and she's been writing ever since. After writing several Westerns, Madeline decided to try her hand at something else and wrote her first vampire romance. It was a short story titled "Masquerade" for an anthology. She loved writing that so much that she wrote her first full-length vampire romance, Embrace the Night, and thus Amanda Ashley was born. One of her dreams had been to write for Harlequin, and she accomplished that in 2003 with the publication of her Silhouette Romance novel, Dude Ranch Bride. Madeline loves to hear from her readers. You can reach her online at DarkWritr@aol.com or by mail at PO Box 1703, Whittier, CA 90609-1703.
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
October 26, 2019
This anthology has an interesting and unique thread binding all the stories, through the centuries - an ancient book about star crossed lovers - Angeline and Damon, that's been copied and handed down through generations of (mostly) women as heirloom. Some find happiness, some don't but still strive, but all make notations in their copy of the book.*spoilers ahead*
Fairy Tale by Heather Graham - 4*
This book starts it all. It has a remarkable h - she's a poetess and a balladeer, a commoner widow who flits from court to court, country to country to earn her living. The H is an earl, kin of King Edward lll and she catches his eye but she refuses him like she's done countless others (bit improbable as I was wondering if such a woman would be able to keep herself chaste and untouched as she maneuvers through courts, and around kings and nobles.) Stuff of true romance and chivalry.
Letter of Love by Virginia Henley - 3*
With honor comes Glory...
The author's bodice ripper credentials shine through.
The Betrothal Ball by Mary Balogh - 4.5*
On to the regency era. A cold blooded earl, typical of MB and an opinionated governess. He's duty bound to marry sensibly, has even picked up a candidate whom he invites for few weeks along with her family to his estate. Only his niece's teacher/companion/governess refuses to leave him and his thoughts alone. I love their cool and hot skirmishes, the angst of the unattainable, and the still one can dream. She's gets her ball and her man, cinderella-ish.
Really good. And the book's characters are revealed - Damon and Angeline.
Golden Treasures by Catherine Hart-4*
Let's set sail as it's buccaneer time. This h is the other niece of the previous story's H (by his sister). She's sailing from England back to Barbados when her ship almost sinks and is rescued by an American privateer turned navy guy (as it is war time between the two countries). Expecting a bodice ripper, I was pleasantly surprised by this sweet, humorous and simple love story.
Loving Charity by Elaine Barbieri - Almost 3*
The h sings in a salon in Sacramento, after being left alone and destitute on the death of her parents. Her only solace and memento is her grandmother's book which she reads but dares not dream. In walks a cold, secretive stranger who thinks a salon girl is fair game. This story is bit weak on substance and romance, at least in comparison to others.
Savage Fantasy by Cassie Edwards- 2.5*
The H is a powerful Ottawa chief and the h is his wife of 6 years. They have a loving relationship and a son. This story has the book too and incorporates it by Less romance and is wrapped up before I even got the hang of it.
Hidden Treasures by Penelope Neri - 4.5*
...Through sacrifice, love reaches it's noblest expression
The best expression of love comes in this story about two poor orphans, Meg and Rob. Rob, three years older and her friend and protector, had broken them out of the workhouse in London and now they live (platonically) in a deserted warehouse and work long hours at petty jobs for few meagre coins. Meg is only 16 as the story opens but already pretty, and is often targeted by men and pimps to better her life. But she has eyes and heart only for Rob. Rob, meanwhile, despairs of ever bettering their lot. And then he concocts a plan.
He's after all a Betancourt (as in the original earl, from Edward lll's court).
Winds of Change by Janelle Taylor - 2*
A desperado, a probable widow (with an absent husband) and an avaricious neighbor. Those were hard, desperate times so I don't want to judge but she's still a married woman till her husband's death is confirmed, therefore their physical and emotional ties made me uncomfortable.
Annabelle's Legacy by Diana Palmer - 2.75*
An easily recognizable DP, set in late 19th century Texas. The h's family's just moved in next to the reclusive H's house. The book, readings, fascinated eavesdropping on the other side of the rosebushes.
Later an age difference, scars, a tortured past, Texas rangers past, villains and who saves the day?
Kindred Hearts by Lori Copeland - 3*
1960s, hippies - the h and her bf, living in a commune and then more communes, pregnancy, another commune, the hopeless loser bf becomes an angry loser and still the h sticks with him. While Ben (too of the commune but moderate) waits patiently, on the sidelines. The wait ends on the last page.
Despite the real odd and not my cuppa moments, something in the story clicks.
To Love Again by Madeline Baker - 2.85*
Modern day h fresh cheated out of her heart, virginity and life savings (in that order), goes off to a remote cabin to lick her wounds. Her nearest neighbor is this hot cowboy who runs the local dude ranch. With plenty of pretty young things sashaying around in tight jeans, a dumpy and surly woman shouldn't be holding her interest. But she does, especially as they get stranded together in her cabin, one stormy night.
Could have been better, more meaningful.
The 'ancient' the stories, the better they are. Era, age more romantic?
Earlier stories are more intriguing, better written and certainly more romantic. Or maybe a bit of fatigue set in later.
Ones based in England are more my favorites. :)
Fairy Tale by Heather Graham - 4*
This book starts it all. It has a remarkable h - she's a poetess and a balladeer, a commoner widow who flits from court to court, country to country to earn her living. The H is an earl, kin of King Edward lll and she catches his eye but she refuses him like she's done countless others (bit improbable as I was wondering if such a woman would be able to keep herself chaste and untouched as she maneuvers through courts, and around kings and nobles.) Stuff of true romance and chivalry.
Letter of Love by Virginia Henley - 3*
With honor comes Glory...
The author's bodice ripper credentials shine through.
The Betrothal Ball by Mary Balogh - 4.5*
On to the regency era. A cold blooded earl, typical of MB and an opinionated governess. He's duty bound to marry sensibly, has even picked up a candidate whom he invites for few weeks along with her family to his estate. Only his niece's teacher/companion/governess refuses to leave him and his thoughts alone. I love their cool and hot skirmishes, the angst of the unattainable, and the still one can dream. She's gets her ball and her man, cinderella-ish.
Really good. And the book's characters are revealed - Damon and Angeline.
Golden Treasures by Catherine Hart-4*
Let's set sail as it's buccaneer time. This h is the other niece of the previous story's H (by his sister). She's sailing from England back to Barbados when her ship almost sinks and is rescued by an American privateer turned navy guy (as it is war time between the two countries). Expecting a bodice ripper, I was pleasantly surprised by this sweet, humorous and simple love story.
Loving Charity by Elaine Barbieri - Almost 3*
The h sings in a salon in Sacramento, after being left alone and destitute on the death of her parents. Her only solace and memento is her grandmother's book which she reads but dares not dream. In walks a cold, secretive stranger who thinks a salon girl is fair game. This story is bit weak on substance and romance, at least in comparison to others.
Savage Fantasy by Cassie Edwards- 2.5*
The H is a powerful Ottawa chief and the h is his wife of 6 years. They have a loving relationship and a son. This story has the book too and incorporates it by Less romance and is wrapped up before I even got the hang of it.
Hidden Treasures by Penelope Neri - 4.5*
...Through sacrifice, love reaches it's noblest expression
The best expression of love comes in this story about two poor orphans, Meg and Rob. Rob, three years older and her friend and protector, had broken them out of the workhouse in London and now they live (platonically) in a deserted warehouse and work long hours at petty jobs for few meagre coins. Meg is only 16 as the story opens but already pretty, and is often targeted by men and pimps to better her life. But she has eyes and heart only for Rob. Rob, meanwhile, despairs of ever bettering their lot. And then he concocts a plan.
He's after all a Betancourt (as in the original earl, from Edward lll's court).
Winds of Change by Janelle Taylor - 2*
A desperado, a probable widow (with an absent husband) and an avaricious neighbor. Those were hard, desperate times so I don't want to judge but she's still a married woman till her husband's death is confirmed, therefore their physical and emotional ties made me uncomfortable.
Annabelle's Legacy by Diana Palmer - 2.75*
An easily recognizable DP, set in late 19th century Texas. The h's family's just moved in next to the reclusive H's house. The book, readings, fascinated eavesdropping on the other side of the rosebushes.
Later an age difference, scars, a tortured past, Texas rangers past, villains and who saves the day?
Kindred Hearts by Lori Copeland - 3*
1960s, hippies - the h and her bf, living in a commune and then more communes, pregnancy, another commune, the hopeless loser bf becomes an angry loser and still the h sticks with him. While Ben (too of the commune but moderate) waits patiently, on the sidelines. The wait ends on the last page.
Despite the real odd and not my cuppa moments, something in the story clicks.
To Love Again by Madeline Baker - 2.85*
Modern day h fresh cheated out of her heart, virginity and life savings (in that order), goes off to a remote cabin to lick her wounds. Her nearest neighbor is this hot cowboy who runs the local dude ranch. With plenty of pretty young things sashaying around in tight jeans, a dumpy and surly woman shouldn't be holding her interest. But she does, especially as they get stranded together in her cabin, one stormy night.
Could have been better, more meaningful.
The 'ancient' the stories, the better they are. Era, age more romantic?
Earlier stories are more intriguing, better written and certainly more romantic. Or maybe a bit of fatigue set in later.
Ones based in England are more my favorites. :)
August 29, 2012
I picked this one up, and realized that I had read it before. It was still as enjoyable the second time around! I love the concept of the heirloom book passed down from generation to generation, and I imagine that all the authors in this collection had fun coming up with stories based on the theme! I would recommend this as a book to take on vacation with you - super short, super sweet stories.
February 18, 2014
Well, as much as I enjoyed it, this book's way too short. On my e-reader, they were like, what, 14 pages? Seriously?
But overall the story is good, it's very Diana Palmer. Could be a one hell of a book if only it's longer and with more details.
So, yeah.
But overall the story is good, it's very Diana Palmer. Could be a one hell of a book if only it's longer and with more details.
So, yeah.
September 27, 2020
This anthology has been well-reviewed by another reviewer *tips hat*
This book was written to provide funds for a nationwide literacy charity.
The common thread is a book - either heirloom or copies thereof, handed down through generations.
Stories range from medieval England to the Revolutionary War, to the Wild West and the 1960's.
I enjoyed the continuity of the book, and how it gave snippets to we readers, but always encouraged the readers of the heirloom book to do what is honorable and right.
This book was written to provide funds for a nationwide literacy charity.
The common thread is a book - either heirloom or copies thereof, handed down through generations.
Stories range from medieval England to the Revolutionary War, to the Wild West and the 1960's.
I enjoyed the continuity of the book, and how it gave snippets to we readers, but always encouraged the readers of the heirloom book to do what is honorable and right.
July 28, 2013
4.7 stars.
OH MY GOD *weeping with joy* OMG OMG OMG. :') I loved this book so freaking much, I loved EVERYTHING about it! It was so sweet and cute and wonderful and... *sigh* God, I loved it. I loved the hero, with all his scars and his limp, and the heroine with all her sweetness and innocence. Oh Lord. I only wish that it had been longer!! It's exactly the kind of story I love. GOD DAMMIT I FUCKIN' LOVE DIANA PALMER.*
Back to story, if I loved it so much, why did I give it 4 stars, you ask? Because it was so freakin' short. How I wish that it would have been longer, dammit!! :'( Still. HOW I LOVED THIS BOOK.
*Sorry for the swearing. But that's just how much I love this lady :')
OH MY GOD *weeping with joy* OMG OMG OMG. :') I loved this book so freaking much, I loved EVERYTHING about it! It was so sweet and cute and wonderful and... *sigh* God, I loved it. I loved the hero, with all his scars and his limp, and the heroine with all her sweetness and innocence. Oh Lord. I only wish that it had been longer!! It's exactly the kind of story I love. GOD DAMMIT I FUCKIN' LOVE DIANA PALMER.*
Back to story, if I loved it so much, why did I give it 4 stars, you ask? Because it was so freakin' short. How I wish that it would have been longer, dammit!! :'( Still. HOW I LOVED THIS BOOK.
*Sorry for the swearing. But that's just how much I love this lady :')
August 30, 2021
Onze contos de diversas escritoras sobre a mesma temática e interligados por um curioso livro.
"Legado de amor"
apresenta histórias passadas em épocas e lugares muito diferentes, trazendo algumas escritoras renomadas como Mary Balogh, Janelle Taylor e Diana Palmer.
O livro tem seus altos e baixos. Alguns contos são medianos, outros ruins e alguns realmente bons e divertidos. É uma garantia de leitura leve que serve para aqueles momentos nos quais você não quer pensar em nada importante, apenas descansar a cabeça. ;)
Meu conto favorito foi, sem dúvida, "Kindred hearts", de Lori Copeland. Muito bem escrito, aborda alguns assuntos importantes da época em que se passa a história (década de 60) e é bem fofinho. <3
O livro tem seus altos e baixos. Alguns contos são medianos, outros ruins e alguns realmente bons e divertidos. É uma garantia de leitura leve que serve para aqueles momentos nos quais você não quer pensar em nada importante, apenas descansar a cabeça. ;)
Meu conto favorito foi, sem dúvida, "Kindred hearts", de Lori Copeland. Muito bem escrito, aborda alguns assuntos importantes da época em que se passa a história (década de 60) e é bem fofinho. <3
May 29, 2015
Eleven short romances. An heirloom book is passed down from generation to generation. It begins during the reign of King Edward III with the characters of Genevieve and Robert (Earl of Betancourt). The book gets passed down from Genevieve/Robert’s decendent's – all the decendent's then add to the novel which spans a 400 year time span. I first read this novel from a library copy and loved it so much I had to order it from Amazon. Such good stories even though they were a bit too short but that is part of what makes the book so good & entertaining.
September 23, 2025
Eleven short stories by eleven authors who contributed their work so the book sales could go to an adult illiteracy program. Many of the stories dealt with one or more adults who couldn't read, a subject with which I had been unfamiliar prior to reading these stories. They were excellent at making the reader understand the trials and problems being unable to read as an adult can cause, not to mention the embarrassment or shame of the non-reader. I had no idea the problem was so prevalent. The theme centers around a book, a love story, originally set down by a monk in Latin. The book travels from story to story, starting in 1602 and ending in modern times. Fascinating. As usual, some stories are better than others, but the overall impact is exceptional.
reprint
April 12, 2020Mary Balogh Betrothal ball is rereleased in ebook Second Chances
contains:
Fairy Tale by Heather Graham - 4*
Letter of Love by Virginia Henley - 3*
The Betrothal Ball by Mary Balogh - 4.5*
Golden Treasures by Catherine Hart-4*
Loving Charity by Elaine Barbieri - Almost 3*
Savage Fantasy by Cassie Edwards- 2.5*
Hidden Treasures by Penelope Neri - 4.5*
Winds of Change by Janelle Taylor - 2*
Annabelle's Legacy by Diana Palmer - 2.75*
Kindred Hearts by Lori Copeland - 3*
To Love Again by Madeline Baker - 2.85*
contains:
Fairy Tale by Heather Graham - 4*
Letter of Love by Virginia Henley - 3*
The Betrothal Ball by Mary Balogh - 4.5*
Golden Treasures by Catherine Hart-4*
Loving Charity by Elaine Barbieri - Almost 3*
Savage Fantasy by Cassie Edwards- 2.5*
Hidden Treasures by Penelope Neri - 4.5*
Winds of Change by Janelle Taylor - 2*
Annabelle's Legacy by Diana Palmer - 2.75*
Kindred Hearts by Lori Copeland - 3*
To Love Again by Madeline Baker - 2.85*
June 6, 2025
A special anthology of very short, short stories by famous HR authors that was published in 1996… all related by a them of a special book. All profits were donated to the Literacy Partners.
I found the stories overly basic, bland and very sweet, except for the one by Mary Balogh. That one had a bit of emotional kick to it. I skim read a few just to get to the end. Great cause; okay book. ⭐️⭐️
I found the stories overly basic, bland and very sweet, except for the one by Mary Balogh. That one had a bit of emotional kick to it. I skim read a few just to get to the end. Great cause; okay book. ⭐️⭐️
May 6, 2022
A lovely set of romances that sprawls from 1603 to the present. The link is an illuminated medieval love story that is copied and passed down from mother/grandmother to daughter and in one case discovered in an attic.
March 31, 2020
This rating is for Annabelle’s Legacy by Diana Palmer only. It’s the only one I read in this anthology.
October 19, 2020
Excellent read! A true romance novel that describes a love that transcends time. One of my new favorites! Can't wait to read again and again! If you enjoy romance, this one is a must-read!
Read
October 21, 2019Read "Fairy Tale" by Heather Graham; "The Betrothal Ball" by Mary Balogh; "Annabelle's Legacy" by Diana Palmer
Read
March 8, 2009JANELLE TAYLOR = WINDS OF CHANGE
October 18, 2009
very good book of short stories.
February 15, 2010
Anthology - what can I say - more writers to read
February 13, 2012
OK if you can borrow it, but don't waste a cent.
July 21, 2012
Stories were too short and rushed. I just couldn't get into it.
April 3, 2017
The concept was good, to follow copies of a book written a thousand years ago and passed down from mother to daughter. Unfortunately the stories themself we're not good.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews