by Lori Avocato
~ Anita, The Romance Studio
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Isabel Mere’s skill with words and the turn of a phrase makes Almost Guilty a joy to read. Her characters reach out and pull the reader into the trials, tribulations, simple pleasures, and sensual joy that they enjoy. Ms. Mere unravels the tangled web of murder, smuggling, kidnapping, hatred and faithless friends, while weaving a web of caring, sensual love that leaves a special joy and hope in the reader’s heart.
~ Camellia, Long and Short Reviews
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Almost Forsaken - Saved of sure death by another servant of the royal family, Mei resents being a servant in the royal household and dreams of escaping. Her savior, Hayden, has been a servant for years and also yearns for freedom. She is a spitfire and he's falling in love with her. Will they survive to escape? A villain, a hero and plenty of action. I loved this book and the way Isabel Mere wove the threads together to create a page turning story that I couldn't put down! Thanks for another good read Isabel Mere!
~ Jackie Loehr, Amazon
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Almost Silenced by Isabel Mere - Interesting romance. Both main characters are of European heritage, not usual leads for an historical romance set in England. Adding to this mix a deaf child gives a depth not always present in romances. An enjoyable read that I gladly recommend to others.
~ Le-Anne Shirley, Western Australia
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Almost Denied by Isabel Mere was such a breath of fresh air! Historical accuracy, romance, music, and suspense. It is all there. I cheered the hero, hated the villain, held my breath in suspenseful scenes. Once you begin the book, you can’t put it down. Ms. Mere’s detail to historical accuracy leads the reader to a time long past with incredible results. Now that I have the entire set, I will be revisiting each book in her ‘Almost’ series one by delicious one and enjoying every delectable moment.
~ Lana M., Amazon
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Almost Perfect by Isabel Mere – The level of historical accuracy leads the reader to a time long past that you know is accurate. Her style of writing captivates your attention, and it is very hard to put down her books. There are many secondary characters that I hope she writes their story. Talk about an amazing author. I highly recommend her books to everyone!
~ Grandma of Awesomeness, Amazon
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Madrigal: A Novel of Gaston LeRoux’s The Phantom of the Opera - Ms. Linforth has written a love story sure to please Phantom fans old and new alike.
~ Amanda Ashley, NYT Best-selling author
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Abendlied: A Novel of Gaston LeRoux’s The Phantom of the Opera – Madrigal continues. Jennifer Linforth has written another noteworthy tale about the Phantom. I enjoyed how the author takes the reader back to Erik’s life below the opera house to unfold a new tale with the Phantom’s friendship with Comte Philippe de Chagny.
~Karen Michelle Nutt, PRN Reviews
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Rondeau: A Novel of Gaston LeRoux’s The Phantom of the Opera - Rondeau is the stunning end to a wonderfully penned trilogy by Jennifer Linforth. Each book had me remembering why I empathized with and loved Erik so much over the years, despised Christine for not being able to see behind the Phantom's mask to Erik, and hated Raoul for destroying Erik's chances for happiness. Ms. Linforth has done a superb job of staying true to Leroux's original madman of a Phantom while showing the heartbroken man who lay behind the mask.
~Night Owl Romance
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Luck of the Draw by Teryl Oswald – Full of twists. This is an enjoyable read. It takes some time and attention because of its array of characters and the surprising depth even among some secondary characters. Friendship, compassion, and grief all play an important role. She’s a dedicated daughter and exasperated (or angry) wife. One unlikely event promises to change Amanda Cash’s world. Who she is has as much to do with the outcome as anything. This is a well-devised plot, with exceptional characters and unforgettable twists.
~ Long and Short Reviews
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A Cry From the Cold – Page turning excitement! Ann Merritt has managed to create a beautiful love story that is full of twists and turns that made it hard for this reader to put it down. The unlikely pairing of the Alaskan recluse and the police officer he rescues from a fatal bush pilot’s crash in the middle of the Alaskan winter, sets up what turns out to be one of the most romantic couplings in my memory. Ann writes with a powerful narrative that will translate beautifully into a deeply human love story.
~ Bart Patton, Amazon
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Winds of Fire by Ann Merritt – The setting and characters were spot on and the storyline was engaging. The author did a good job depicting the work of the clandestine services while weaving a believable suspense/romance plot around a lush setting. It was a flowing, pleasurable read in a genre where many books sound forced.
~ Jo Lamas, Amazon
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He Planted A Garden by Gloria Tarver – This is a really good book. I really enjoyed reading it and would recommend it to anyone.
~ Bobbie Crutchfield, Amazon
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Cave of Terror by Amber Dawn Bell - Highly entertaining and fun, Cave of Terror was impossible to put down. Delightfully funny with a true sense of teenagers, Cheyenne is believable and her emotional struggles are on par with most teens. The author gave just enough background to understand the workings of her vampires. Ms. Bell has done an admirable job of telling a story suitable for young adults.
~ Dawnie, Fallen Angel Reviews
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Love and Noël by Amber Dawn Bell – I love it! I cried, laughed, and enjoyed every minute. Reading it again for the third time, just to make sure I didn’t miss anything.
~ Amber Seelkie, Amazon
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Heart’s Affections by Molly Zenk – This isn’t a romance in the typical genre fiction sense, but instead it is the true romance of John Keats and Fanny Brawne. Rarely have I ever been brought to tears by a novel as I was after reading this story. Ms. Zenk has produced a shining gem to be proud of for years and years to come. This is one of the most heart-touching stories I’ve read in a very long time.
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Chasing Byron by Molly Zenk is a page turner of a Regency book not only because of the engaging characters, but also by the lovely prose. Reading this book was a jolly fun time all through the eyes of Miss Woodhouse, yet also one that touches the heart.
~Orange Blossom, Long and Short Reviews
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Like the Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, Dark Well of Decision is a grand adventure with a likable girl who is a little like all of us. Zoe’s insecurities are realistically drawn and her struggle with both her faith and the new direction her life will take is poignant. The references to the Bible and the teachings presented are appropriately captured. Author Anne Kimberly is an author to watch; her gift for penning a grand childhood adventure is a great one. This Young Adult is well worth the time and money spent.
~Lettetia, Coffee Time Romance
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Into the Woods by R.R. Smythe - This Young Adult Fantasy will send chills down your spine. I, as the reader, followed Callum and witnessed everything he and his friends went through as they attempted to decipher the messages. Each time Callum deciphered one of the four messages, some villagers awakened. Through the eyes of Ellsbeth, I saw the other sleepers wander, make mistakes, and be released from the Netherwood, leaving Ellsbeth alone. Excellent reading for any age of fantasy fans!
~ Detra Fitch, Huntress Reviews
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Brynn Chapman will captivate the reader with intricate details, a mystery that ensnares the reader and characters that will touch their hearts. By the end of the first chapter, this reviewer was enthralled with Bride of Blackbeard. It’s a compelling tale of sorrow, pain, love, and hate. Each of the people Costanza encounters on her journey has an experience to share, drawing in the reader more. Ms. Chapm
an sketches a story that tugs at the heartstrings. I believe many will be touched in some way by this extraordinary book that leaves much thought.
~ Cherokee, Coffee Time Romance
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Ladybugs and Fireflies by Cheryl Alldredge - Simply put, this is a very entertaining story. The backdrop is great—a real southern small-town flavor. There's a few fun unexpected twists, quips and fun, but readers will want to read this for the wonderful characters and the depth of feelings you'll share as you go.
~ Snapdragon, Long and Short Reviews
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Sweet Salvation by Lis’Anne Harris is a fabulous Georgian romance that will leave readers begging for more.
~ Virginia Henley, NYT Best-Selling Authors
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Sweet Liberation Adventure, a determined heroine and a handsome hero, what more can you ask for? A recommended read! Lis'Anne Harris is added to my list of favorite Historical romance writers!
~ Wend Petzler, Amazon
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Saving Tampa - What if you knew something horrible was going to happen but you could prevent it? Would you tell someone? What if you saw it in a vision and had no proof? Would you risk your credibility to come forward? These are the questions at the heart of Saving Tampa, an on-the-edge-of-your-seat thriller from Jo Webnar.
~ Mairead Walpole, Reviews by Crystal
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Hidden Death - If you're looking for a good mystery with a twist of romance, this book just might be what you're wanting. With some books, it's easy to figure out who did it. Not this book! Jo Webnar kept me on the edge of my seat, not sure who was the bad guy and needing to find out. Loved it.
~ Long and Short Reviews
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I adore this Scottish historical romance! Blood on the Tartan by Chris Holmes has more history than some historical romances—but never dry history! Readers will find themselves completely immersed in the scene, the history and the characters. This intricate historical detail emanates from the story itself, heightening the suspense and the reader's understanding of the history in a vivid manner as if it were current and present. Blood On The Tartan is a must read for romance and historical fiction lovers of Scottish heritage.
~Merri, Merrimon Reviews
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The Mosquito Tapes - Nobody tells a bio-terror story better than Chris Holmes. And like all of Chris Holmes’ books, this one begins well—when San Diego County Chief Medical Examiner Jack Youngblood discovers a strange mosquito in the pocket of a murder victim. Taut, tingly, and downright scary, The Mosquito Tapes will keep you reading well into the night.
~ Ben F. Small, Author
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The Garden of Evil - Chris Holmes’s novel is a modern day cat and mouse, no...cobra and mongoose investigation, with the stakes more personal and deadly as the adversaries find themselves continually within striking distance. The weapon – food – is one of man’s most basic needs.
~ John Sylvester, FBI Agent (Ret.)
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The Medusa Strain by Chris Holmes - Race with government and civilian virus chasers as they trace how the plague disease travels from Iraq throughout the United States. This thriller incorporates the very best of military, government and civilian disease centers, and political knowledge. The author takes the time to leave your teeth on edge in parting with his knowledgeable reassurances in the epilogue that this bio-weapon technology is with us today. The Medusa Strain really could happen!
~The Heartland Review
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Spores, Plagues and History – The Story of Anthrax – With this (non-fiction) book, Dr. Chris Holmes traces the known history of anthrax, from Moses to Saddam Hussein. He shows us how it has caused problems for millennia and tracks its beginnings as a weapon. He caps the past with frightening accounts of the very recent uses of anthrax, even leaving us with several unknowns about where we will go next, and if we can or will be able to handle the next outbreak.
~ Journal of Emergency Medicine
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Ah, the memories that Operation: L.O.V.E. brings to mind. As an Air Force nurse who married an Air Force fighter pilot, I relived the days of glory through each and every story. While covering all the military branches, each story holds a special spark of its own that readers will love!
~ Lori Avocato, Best Selling Author
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An anthology by amazing women with character and grace—incredible writers, wonderful stories about our US Military! For Your Heart Only is not to be missed!
~ Heather Graham, NYT Best Seller
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Holiday Op – Get ready for special operations men the way you’ve never seen them before. For holiday adventures you’ll never forget, be sure to treat yourself to this wonderful collection by Avocato, Nina, Elizabeth, DeVane, and DeAngelo.
~ Christina Skye, Author
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When the Vow Breaks by Judith Leigh - This book is about a woman who fights breast cancer. The storyline dealt with the commitment between a man and a woman, with a true belief of God. The intrigue was that of finding a rock to lean upon through faith in God. Not only did she learn to lean on her relationship with Him, but she also learned how to forgive her husband. This is a great look at not only a breast cancer survivor, but also a couple whose commitment to each other through their faith grew stronger. It is an easy read and one I highly recommend.
~ Brenda Talley, The Romance Studio
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A Father’s Hope by Judith Leigh – Sweet. A nice tale with surprises. I really enjoyed the setting and the interaction. And of course I’m a wounded hero romance.
~ Amazon Customer
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The Heart of Christmas is an anthology of four stories beautifully built upon foundations of hope, prayer and faith. In Cheryl Norman's, "The Christmas Prayer", a widower and his daughter are given the unexpected gift of Noelle Barker. If only she believed in herself enough to think she would make a fine mother. "Away In the Manger' by Susan Sweet, is a heart wrenching and heartwarming tale of two families, one with an ill child and a father who struggles with his faith. In Judith Leigh’s, “Yuletide Miracle,” a grandfather's search for the granddaughter he's never known leads him to discovering love, faith and unending kindness in the small town of Mistletoe, Tennessee. “The Christmas Conflict” by Patty Howell, unveils a woman whose trust in God is tenuous and a man whose hardships and losses have only served to strengthen his faith in his creator. “The Heart of Christmas” offers stories that emphasize the core significance of the Christmas season.
~ Polly M, Amazon
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Christmas Blessings - I had the privilege of meeting many of these wonderful characters in last year's anthology which made reading Christmas Blessings all the more poignant. Knowing that Christmas is about love, forgiveness and new beginnings, these stories are right on the money with modern day vignettes of characters we can all relate to, even if you may not be a traditional romance reader! This book is a fun, fast read and a marvelous gift for those readers on your list! Bravo to Highland Press for putting together another awesome collection.
~ Nancy Quatrano, Amazon
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Romance on Route 66 by Judith Leigh and Cheryl Norman - Norman and Leigh break the romance speed limit on America's historic roadway.
~ Anne Krist, Ecataromance, Reviewers’ Choice Award Winner
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Static Resistance and Rose - An enticing, fresh voice. Lee Roland knows how to capture your heart.
~ Kelley St. John, National Readers Choice Award Winner
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Eyes of Love by Katherine Deauxville - A Romantic Times Best Historical Fantasy - I read this book when it came out, then lost my copy. So delighted to find this again. It's funny, it's romantic, it's a really great read!
~ Victoria Devlin, Amazon
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The Crystal Heart by Katherine Deauxville brims with ribald humor a
nd authentic historical detail. Enjoy!
~ Virginia Henley, NY Times bestselling author
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Southern Fried Trouble - Katherine Deauxville is at the top of her form with mayhem, sizzle and murder.
~ Nan Ryan, NY Times Best-Selling Author
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Beats A Wild Heart - In the ancient, Celtic land of Cornwall, Emma Hayward searched for a myth and found truth. The legend of the black cat of Bodmin Moor is a well-known Cornish legend. Jean Adams has merged the essence of myth and romance into a fascinating story which catches the imagination. I enjoyed the way the story unfolded at a smooth and steady pace with Emma and Seth appearing as real people who feel an instant attraction for one another. At first the story appears to be straightforward, but as it evolves mystery, love and intrigue intervene to make a vibrant story with hidden depths. Once you start reading you won't be able to put this book down.
~ Orchid, Long and Short Reviews
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A Heated Romance by Candace Gold - A fascinating romantic suspense tells the story of Marcie O'Dwyer, a female firefighter who has had to struggle to prove herself. While the first part of the book seems to focus on the romance and Marcie's daily life, the second part transitions into a suspense novel as Marcie witnesses something suspicious at one of the fires. Her life is endangered by what she possibly knows and I found myself anticipating the outcome almost as much as Marcie.
~ Lilac, Long and Short Reviews
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A Twist of Fate by Candace Gold - The story had quite an unexpected turn of events one that no one would suspect. The author did a terrific job in keeping the reader in suspense from beginning to end.
~ Susan, Amazon
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Rebel Heart - Jannine Corti Petska used a myriad of emotions to tell this story and the reader quickly becomes entranced in the ways Courtney’s stubborn attitude works to her advantage in surviving this disastrous beginning to her new life. This is a wonderful rendition of a different type which is a welcome addition to the historical romance genre. I believe that you will enjoy this story; I know I did!
